How to Make Popcorn Kernels - Food guide
Growing popcorn in a home garden can be a rewarding experience. The seeds are easy to germinate and harvesting the kernels is fun. The result is a popcorn that is more flavorful than commercial brands. Follow the instructions for storing and enjoy a delicious and healthy treat all year round.
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Things You'll Need
- Popcorn seed
- Garden spot
- Cultivating tools
- Mesh bags or netting
- Popcorn popper (traditional or hot air)
Instructions
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Growing
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1
Check with your local garden store for seeds that will grow well in your area.
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Plant in late spring when the danger of frost has passed. Use well cultivated soil, in a sunny location and plant seeds in several short rows to ensure pollination.
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3
Save the seed packet. Follow the directions for thinning the sprouted seeds. Water frequently.
Harvesting
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Let the mature corn stay in the ground as long as possible. The goal is for the kernels and the husks to be very dry.
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Pick the ears of corn and remove the husks. Hang them in a warm, dry place that is well ventilated. You can purchase mesh bags for this purpose or you can make them from coarse netting.
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Once a week shell a few kernels and test them in a popcorn popper. If the popcorn is chewy or moist let it continue to dry.
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Shell the dry kernels by placing your hands around the cob and twisting. The kernels will fall off.
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8
Store the kernels in containers with airtight lids or in plastic bags that seal. Keep them in a cool, dry place for up to two years.
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Tips & Warnings
Never plant popcorn next to sweet corn; they will cross pollinate and reduce the quality of the sweet corn.
Storing kernels in the freezer will make them too dry and inhibits their ability to pop.
References
Resources
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