What To Know
- Use a hoe or shovel to make shallow holes in the soil at the desired spacing.
- Sweet corn is best eaten fresh, but it can also be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- To store sweet corn, remove the husks and silk and wrap the ears in a damp paper towel.
Growing sweet corn in your own garden is a rewarding experience that can provide you with delicious and nutritious food. While it may seem daunting, planting sweet corn by hand is actually a relatively simple process that can be mastered by anyone. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the entire process, from selecting the right seeds to harvesting your first ears of corn.
Materials You Will Need
- Sweet corn seeds
- Garden soil
- Compost or manure
- Shovel
- Hoe
- Rake
- Watering can or hose
- Fertilizer (optional)
Choosing the Right Sweet Corn Variety
There are many different varieties of sweet corn available, each with its own unique flavor, texture, and maturity time. When selecting seeds, consider the following factors:
- Flavor: There are three main types of sweet corn: sugary, supersweet, and enhanced. Sugary varieties have a traditional sweet corn flavor, while supersweet varieties are sweeter and contain less starch. Enhanced varieties combine the sweetness of supersweet varieties with the texture of sugary varieties.
- Texture: Sweet corn kernels can be either tender or tough. Tender kernels are preferred for eating fresh, while tough kernels are better suited for processing.
- Maturity time: Sweet corn varieties are classified as early, mid-season, or late. Early varieties mature in 60-70 days, while late varieties can take up to 100 days to mature. Choose varieties that mature at different times to extend your harvest season.
Preparing the Soil
Sweet corn prefers well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.8. Before planting, prepare the soil by following these steps:
- Test the soil pH using a soil test kit. If the pH is below 6.0, add lime to raise it.
- Till the soil to a depth of 12 inches, removing any weeds or debris.
- Amend the soil with compost or manure to improve fertility and drainage.
Planting Sweet Corn
1. Determine Planting Depth and Spacing
Plant sweet corn seeds 1-2 inches deep and 6-8 inches apart. Rows should be spaced 3 feet apart.
2. Make Planting Holes
Use a hoe or shovel to make shallow holes in the soil at the desired spacing.
3. Place Seeds in Holes
Drop 2-3 seeds in each hole.
4. Cover Seeds with Soil
Fill the holes with soil and gently pat down.
5. Water Well
Water the seeds thoroughly after planting.
Growing Sweet Corn
1. Thinning
Once the seedlings have emerged, thin them out to the strongest one or two plants per hill.
2. Fertilizing
Fertilize the corn plants every few weeks with a balanced fertilizer.
3. Watering
Water the corn plants deeply and regularly, especially during hot and dry weather.
4. Mulching
Spread a layer of mulch around the corn plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
5. Pollination
Sweet corn is wind-pollinated. Plant multiple rows of corn to ensure adequate pollination.
Harvesting Sweet Corn
Sweet corn is ready to harvest when the silks turn brown and the kernels are plump and milky. To harvest, grasp the ear near the base and twist it off the stalk.
Storing Sweet Corn
Sweet corn is best eaten fresh, but it can also be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. To store sweet corn, remove the husks and silk and wrap the ears in a damp paper towel.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
- Corn smut: A fungal disease that causes large, black galls on the ears of corn. Remove and destroy infected ears.
- Leaf blight: A fungal disease that causes brown spots on the leaves. Use fungicides to control the disease.
- Corn earworm: A pest that feeds on the kernels of corn. Control the pest with insecticides or by planting resistant varieties.
Key Points
Planting sweet corn by hand is a rewarding experience that can provide you with delicious and nutritious food. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can successfully grow your own sweet corn and enjoy the fruits of your labor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water sweet corn plants?
A: Water sweet corn plants deeply and regularly, especially during hot and dry weather. Aim to provide about 1 inch of water per week.
Q: Can I plant sweet corn in containers?
A: Yes, you can plant sweet corn in containers, but choose a variety that is suitable for container gardening. Provide adequate drainage and support for the plants.
Q: How long does it take for sweet corn to mature?
A: The maturity time of sweet corn varies depending on the variety. Early varieties mature in 60-70 days, while late varieties can take up to 100 days to mature.
Q: How can I tell if sweet corn is ready to harvest?
A: Sweet corn is ready to harvest when the silks turn brown and the kernels are plump and milky.
