Mesocotyl rot is occurring in corn seedlings at some locations in Iowa. Alison Robertson addressed this inCorn seedling health and stand establishment in this issue. Is this important once the corn has emerged and with the warm temperatures we are now receiving? Proper root development during these next few weeks is critical to the success of the crop. Corn has two root systems that are easily visible early in the year. The initial root system, the seminal roots, is comprised of the radicle and lateral seminal roots. The seminal roots help anchor the young seedling and provide it with nutrients and water.