Corn Growing GuideUpdated 9 days ago

Corn is a warm-season crop that thrives in sunny conditions and fertile soil. Here’s how to successfully sow and grow corn:

When to Sow

• Sow corn seeds outdoors after the last frost, when soil temperatures reach at least 60°F.
• Corn is sensitive to cold, so avoid planting too early. For a continuous harvest, sow seeds every 2 weeks until early summer.

Outdoor Sowing

• Choose a sunny location with well-drained, fertile soil.
• Sow seeds 1 inch deep, spaced 8-12 inches apart in rows 24-36 inches apart.
• Since corn is wind-pollinated, plant it in blocks of short rows rather than one long row for proper pollination.
• Water gently after sowing and keep the soil consistently moist until germination (7-10 days). Learn more about corn growing problems to ensure successful growth.

Care & Maintenance

• Sun & Water: Corn requires full sun and regular watering, especially during flowering and ear-forming stages.
• Mulching: Mulch around the plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
• Fertilizing: Corn is a heavy feeder. Side-dress with compost or a balanced fertilizer when plants are about 12 inches tall and again when they start to tassel. For tips on growing corn in raised beds, check out corn in raised beds.

Pests & Diseases

• Common pests include corn earworms, cutworms, and aphids. Handpick pests or use organic insecticides if necessary.
• To prevent disease, practice crop rotation and ensure good air circulation by properly spacing plants. Corn can be susceptible to fungal diseases like smut and rust, which can be minimized by keeping plants healthy and stress-free. Learn more about corn companion plants for natural pest control and garden synergy.

Harvesting

• Corn is ready to harvest when the silks at the ear’s end turn brown, and the kernels are plump and milky when pressed.
• To harvest, hold the ear firmly and twist it downward to snap it off the stalk.
• For the best flavor, harvest in the morning and cook or preserve the corn as soon as possible. For more details, explore corn harvesting tips.

Garden Use

• Corn is commonly grown in "Three Sisters" gardens alongside beans and squash, which help support and enrich each other.
• Corn can also serve as a natural trellis for climbing plants like beans. Ensure that it is planted in a location that receives plenty of sunlight and has space to accommodate its height and spread.