Corn Planting Timing for Maximizing Harvest Yield
Corn is a popular staple in many diets, and growing it in your own garden can be a rewarding experience. Here are some tips to help you get started.
Firstly, corn can be susceptible to harmful pests such as European corn borers, corn earworms, and flea beetles. Timely use of insecticides can be effective in managing these pests.
When it comes to planting, corn thrives in well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.8. Seeds should be planted about 9 to 12 inches apart and 1 to 2 inches deep. For optimal growth, corn is planted in blocks rather than single rows to enhance pollination.
Corn is a heavy feeder and requires ample compost to enrich the soil. High nitrogen fertilizer is applied early in the season and side-dressed with additional nitrogen just before the tassels form. Proper plant spacing, crop rotation, and vigilance can help manage corn diseases, such as corn smut which thrives in warm, dry conditions and can enter through plant wounds.
Companion planting with beans or squash can help naturally fend off pests and diseases in corn. Black plastic mulch can also be used to raise the soil temperature for corn.
Watering is crucial for corn growth. During the growth season, corn needs about an inch of water per week, more if the weather is exceptionally hot and dry. Corn requires consistent moisture to prevent the silks from drying out and affecting kernel development.
Harvesting corn is best done in the morning when it's cool to keep it from wilting. The ear should be twisted off the stalk with a downward push. Corn is ripe when the silks have turned brown and the kernels are plump and milky.
For sweet corn, it's important to refrigerate it immediately after harvesting to keep it fresh. Popcorn, on the other hand, should be left on the stalks until the husks turn brown and the kernels are hard to the touch before harvesting.
Lastly, corn should be harvested and stored within hours of harvesting to preserve flavour and nutrients. The author of a popular garden book containing advice on growing corn is John Seymour. Shucking corn just before cooking can preserve its 'just picked' taste.
By following these tips, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of home-grown corn. Happy gardening!
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