Corn
Zea mays(Maize)
History
Corn was one of the staple crops in the americas and is part of the 3 sisters growing techinque. The native american had begun the selective breeding of corn make them resiliant across the americas. Christoper cloumbus had brought corn back the europe in 1493. whille it never gained traction throughout europe the crop became a staple in the American diet. Throughout the 1900s century corn had continued selective breeding to increase they yeaild sixe. in modern time corn is bioengeneered to be more resistant to herbicids and drought.
Corn Has become one of the most popular crons grown world wide with an eatimated 1.1 billion tons on corn grown every year. the top three producer of corn are America, Chine and brazil supplying over 60% of the worlds corn supply.
Growing conditions
Sunlight
Needs atleast 8 hours of direct sunlight
Temperature Range
60F-85F
Soil Conditions
Loamy soil.
Water
2+ inches of water per week.
Water the plants when the topsoil is dry to the touch.
Nutrients
10-5-10 for vegitation
5-10-10 for flowering
pH
6.0-6.5
Plant care
Sowing Seeds
Wait until the soil is regualrly over 55F before sowing seeds. plants seeds, 10 to 12 inches apart. Cover with straw to help retain moisture.
Germination
Seeds can take 3 to 10 days to germinate
Keep the soil moist but not damp, as too much water can cause rot. Once the corn emerges remove straw and maintan a constistant watering schedule
Pruning
Cut down any side shoots and foucs the plants eneery on to the single stock. If multiple ears of corn removing them can help focus energy into a single cob
Harvest
Corn can be harvested by hand by snaping just below the shoulder of the cob. the sliks of the corn will turn brown when it is ready to harvest
Corn can be dried on the stalk and stored in a cool dry place for later use with some varieties being used for popcorn
Growing Tips
Corn is a heavy feeder adding compost to the base can feed the plant and form a mound to support the corn
Change nurients from 10-10-5 to 5-10-10 when the ear of corn starts to emerge.
Garden plotter quick facts
Spacing
10" to 16"
Water needs
Low
Sunlight
Full Sun
Root vegetable that grows best in loose, sandy soil.
