What symptom is commonly seen in corn stalk rots a few weeks after pollination?

In the context of corn stalk rots, a common symptom seen a few weeks after pollination is the light green to gray coloration of the entire plant. This symptom often indicates that the plant is experiencing stress and is unable to maintain healthy chlorophyll production, which can result from the effects of fungal pathogens that cause stalk rot. The discoloration reflects the decline in plant health and vigor, signaling that the plant is possibly in decline due to the disease.

The other symptoms listed do not accurately describe the typical manifestations of corn stalk rots. For instance, vibrant green bottom leaves would suggest healthy growth and nutrient uptake, which contradicts the presence of stalk rot. Increased plant firmness may be associated with healthy plants, while stalk rots often cause a deterioration of the structure, leading to weakened plants. A fluorescent grain color is not a recognized symptom of stalk rot and does not align with the distress that accompanies this particular disease condition.