Corn Seeds-Bada iringu Seeds Home Gardening 50

Germination: 7-14 days

Germination Temperature: Optimum soil temperatures 60-85ºF. Planting in soil under 60ºF results in poor germination.

Seed Sowing Depth: 1-2” deep

Outside Sowing: In late spring, after the last frost date, when the soil reaches at least 60ºF. Sow 4-6” apart, thin to 10-12” apart. Plant in blocks, 4-5 rows, 24-36” apart to aid with pollination. Corn is pollinated by wind therefore planting in blocks ensures proper pollination rather than one long single row where the pollen can easily blow away resulting in small, poorly filled out ears.

How much does a packet plant: 30-40 foot single row, a block of 5 rows at 8 foot.

Harvest: Ready for picking 2 1/2 - 3 weeks after silks appear. Silks become dry and brown. The kernels should be plump and full. Test by pressing your fingertip into a kernel, looking for a "milky" appearance. Best picked in the morning and refrigerate/cool right away.

Harvest Dent or ornamental corn: When husks become dried or after a frost or two.

Tips: Corn needs abundant nitrogen. Add manure (in the fall) or rich compost a few weeks before planting. Add a high-nitrogen organic fertilizer every few weeks until tassels form. Keep well weeded, especially when they are seedlings and well-watered, 1 inch a week especially during the silk stage.