To grow corn from kernels, you need to plant the kernels in soil under the right conditions and provide ongoing care. Here's a breakdown of the process:
1. Planting the Kernels:
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Starting Indoors (Optional): You can start corn kernels indoors to get a head start, especially in regions with short growing seasons.
- Use seed trays or small pots that are at least 10 cm deep.
- Fill the containers with a well-draining potting mix.
- Plant the corn kernels tip-downward, 2-3 cm deep.
- Space the kernels about 5 cm apart.
- Cover the kernels with soil and gently water.
- Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
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Directly Sowing Outdoors: Once the soil temperature consistently reaches at least 60°F (15°C), you can directly sow corn kernels in the garden.
- Choose a sunny location with well-draining soil. Corn needs at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day.
- Prepare the soil by tilling or turning it over and amending with compost or other organic matter.
- Plant the kernels 1-2 inches deep and 6-12 inches apart within rows. Space rows 30-36 inches apart.
- Planting corn in blocks (several short rows side-by-side) rather than one long row helps with pollination.
2. Germination and Early Growth:
- Keep the soil consistently moist. Germination typically occurs within 7-10 days, depending on soil temperature and moisture.
- Once the seedlings emerge, thin them to the strongest plant per spacing if you planted multiple kernels per hole.
- For indoor seedlings, gradually acclimate them to outdoor conditions before transplanting to the garden after the last frost.
3. Ongoing Care:
- Watering: Corn needs consistent moisture, especially during tasseling and silking (when the tassels and silks emerge). Water deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry.
- Fertilizing: Corn is a heavy feeder. Apply a balanced fertilizer according to package instructions, or side-dress with compost. Nitrogen is especially important for leaf growth.
- Weeding: Keep the area around the corn plants free of weeds, which compete for nutrients and water.
- Pollination: Corn is wind-pollinated. If pollination is poor (e.g., due to lack of wind or planting in a single row), you can hand-pollinate by shaking the tassels to release pollen onto the silks.
- Pest and Disease Control: Monitor for pests and diseases and take appropriate action if needed. Common corn pests include corn earworms, aphids, and Japanese beetles.
4. Harvesting:
- Corn is typically ready for harvest about 60-100 days after planting, depending on the variety.
- Check for ripeness by feeling the kernels through the husk. They should be plump and milky. The silks should be brown and dry.
- Harvest by pulling the ears downward and twisting.
In short, growing corn from kernels involves planting them in the ground, providing adequate water, nutrients, and sunlight, and protecting them from pests and diseases.
