What To Know
- Corn is a versatile and delicious crop that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways.
- If you live in a short-season area, you’ll need to choose a variety that will mature before the first frost.
- You can fertilize your corn plants with a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 fertilizer.
Corn is a versatile and delicious crop that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Whether you’re looking to grow corn for fresh eating, canning, or animal feed, getting big, plump ears is essential. With the right care and attention, you can easily grow big corn cobs in your own garden.
Choosing the Right Corn Variety
The first step to growing big corn cobs is choosing the right variety. There are many different varieties of corn available, each with its own unique characteristics. Some varieties are better suited for certain climates or growing conditions than others.
When choosing a corn variety, consider the following factors:
- Maturity: Some varieties of corn mature earlier than others. If you live in a short-season area, you’ll need to choose a variety that will mature before the first frost.
- Ear size: Some varieties of corn produce larger ears than others. If you’re looking for big corn cobs, choose a variety that is known for producing large ears.
- Flavor: Some varieties of corn have a sweeter flavor than others. If you’re planning on eating your corn fresh, choose a variety that has a sweet flavor.
Preparing the Soil
Corn grows best in well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0 to 6.8. If your soil is not well-drained, you can improve drainage by adding compost or other organic matter. You can also add lime to raise the pH of your soil.
Before planting corn, it’s important to test the soil and add any necessary amendments. This will help ensure that your corn plants have the nutrients they need to grow big and healthy.
Planting Corn
Corn is typically planted in the spring, after the last frost date. The seeds should be planted 1 to 2 inches deep and 4 to 6 inches apart. If you’re planting multiple rows of corn, space the rows 3 to 4 feet apart.
After planting, water the seeds well. Keep the soil moist, but not soggy. Corn plants need about 1 inch of water per week.
Fertilizing Corn
Corn plants need a lot of nutrients to grow big and healthy. You can fertilize your corn plants with a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 fertilizer. Apply the fertilizer according to the package directions.
Watering Corn
Corn plants need about 1 inch of water per week. Water your corn plants deeply and infrequently. This will help encourage deep root growth.
Weeding Corn
Weeds can compete with your corn plants for water and nutrients. It’s important to weed your corn patch regularly to keep the weeds under control.
Harvesting Corn
Corn is ready to harvest when the ears are fully mature. The ears will be plump and the kernels will be milky. To harvest corn, simply snap the ears off the stalks.
Storing Corn
Corn can be stored in a cool, dry place for up to several months. You can also freeze corn for up to a year.
Common Questions and Answers
Q: How often should I water my corn plants?
A: Corn plants need about 1 inch of water per week. Water your corn plants deeply and infrequently.
Q: How can I tell when my corn is ready to harvest?
A: Corn is ready to harvest when the ears are fully mature. The ears will be plump and the kernels will be milky.
Q: How can I store corn?
A: Corn can be stored in a cool, dry place for up to several months. You can also freeze corn for up to a year.
