What To Know
- Corn, a staple crop for centuries, is not just a delicious vegetable but also a rewarding one to grow in your backyard.
- Sweet corn is sweeter and has a higher sugar content, while field corn is used for animal feed, cornmeal, and other products.
- Remove the husks and silks and store the corn in a cool, dry place.
Corn, a staple crop for centuries, is not just a delicious vegetable but also a rewarding one to grow in your backyard. With proper planning and care, you can enjoy the sweet taste of homegrown corn throughout the summer. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to grow corn backyard, ensuring a bountiful harvest.
Selecting the Right Variety
The first step is to choose the right variety of corn for your region and preferences. There are two main types: sweet corn and field corn. Sweet corn is sweeter and has a higher sugar content, while field corn is used for animal feed, cornmeal, and other products. Choose a variety that matures in the number of days you have between the last spring frost and the first fall frost.
Preparing the Soil
Corn prefers well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.8. Amend the soil with compost or manure to improve its fertility and drainage. Corn is a heavy feeder, so it’s crucial to fertilize it regularly.
Planting Corn
Plant corn seeds 1-2 inches deep and 6-12 inches apart in rows that are 3 feet apart. Water the seeds well and keep the soil moist until germination occurs. Once the seedlings emerge, thin them to the strongest one per hole.
Watering and Fertilizing
Corn requires consistent watering, especially during pollination and ear development. Water deeply and regularly, especially during hot, dry periods. Fertilize the corn every 2-3 weeks with a balanced fertilizer.
Pollination and Silking
Corn is a wind-pollinated plant. The tassels at the top of the stalks produce pollen that falls on the silks emerging from the developing ears. Silking occurs when the ears are ready to be pollinated. This process is crucial for producing well-filled ears.
Pest and Disease Control
Corn is susceptible to various pests and diseases. Common pests include corn earworms, aphids, and armyworms. Diseases include corn smut, leaf blight, and rust. Monitor your plants regularly and take appropriate control measures as needed.
Harvesting Corn
Corn is ready to harvest when the kernels are plump and milky. The silks will be dry and brown, and the husks will have turned a golden yellow. To harvest, twist the ears downward and snap them off the stalk. Remove the husks and silks and store the corn in a cool, dry place.
Final Touches: Enjoying Your Harvest
Once your corn is harvested, there are endless ways to enjoy it. You can boil, roast, grill, or microwave it. Sweet corn can be eaten on the cob or used in salads, soups, and other dishes. Field corn can be used to make cornmeal, grits, and other products.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water my corn plants?
A: Water corn plants deeply and regularly, especially during hot, dry periods.
Q: When should I fertilize my corn plants?
A: Fertilize corn plants every 2-3 weeks with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: How can I prevent pests from damaging my corn plants?
A: Monitor your plants regularly and take appropriate control measures as needed. Common pest control methods include insecticidal sprays or organic solutions like neem oil.
Q: What is the best way to store corn after harvesting?
A: Store corn in a cool, dry place with the husks removed.
Q: Can I grow corn in containers?
A: Yes, you can grow corn in containers. Choose a container that is at least 12 inches deep and 18 inches wide.
