5 Tips on Growing Corn ...

Corn is one of those crops that do best by simply planting the seed directly into the ground, instead of starting seeds indoors during the early spring. It’s also necessary to place corn plants fairly close to one another, since corn is pollinated by the wind.

I’m not referring to your neighbor’s luscious corn crop either, but to the large number of wild critters eyeing your ever maturing crop. Their game is to see who can harvest the corn first; you or them. Keeping the wild animals from raiding your garden can be a full time job.

It is extremely important to make sure your corn crop has plenty of water, unless you don’t mind shriveled corn on the cob. Curling leaves is a sign that your corn needs some water. Also, be sure to not slack on watering when the kernels begin to develop.

Corn borers and flea beetles are two common pests on corn plants. Smut is also a gray-black fungus that plagues corn and both this fungus and these pests can be easily controlled with some outside help. It’s a good idea to take a peek at random corn plants from time to time and make sure they look healthy.

When your corn is ready to harvest, the first sign you will notice is a brown tassel on each plant. Don’t only go by this though; be sure to gently feel each ear of corn. You want to only pick the ears that are rounded at the end, not pointed. These ears of corn should also feel full if the kernels are completely developed.

I wish you lots of success with your corn-planting endeavor. Sweet corn has one of the longest growing seasons among corn plants, so be sure to plant seeds early enough to give them plenty of growing time. Have you had much luck with growing corn? What tips do you have for people who are thinking about growing corn for themselves?

Top Photo Credit: Farm and Dairy