The Process of Growing Corn From Seeds

A corn stalk is either male or female, and cannot self-pollinate.

Corn is a common crop in the United States, and grows on large swathes of land throughout the Midwest. This crop always starts from seed and requires a long growing season, sunshine, nutrition and moisture.

Season

Corn requires a large growing area, as each stalk requires wind pollination, and grows only one to two ears. Planting corn in at least four rows results in better pollination and harvest.

Location

Corn requires deep, crumbly soil that provides nutrition and holds moisture. Gardeners should till their soil to a depth of 6 inches to break up dirt clods and loosen the soil before planting. Corn does best with organic compost and 12-12-12 fertilizer at the start.

Soil

Plant at least four rows of corn with 2 to 3 feet between each row. They should plant seeds at every 8 to 12 inches.

Planting

Plant at least four rows of corn with 2 to 3 feet between each row. They should plant seeds at every 8 to 12 inches.

Water

Corn needs a high moisture content in its soil, and should never go completely dry. Gardeners should maintain good moisture with at least 2 inches of water every week during the growing season.

References

• University of Illinois Extension: Watch Your Garden Grow: Corn
• Purdue Department of Horticulture: Growing Sweet Corn