If you love Sweet Corn, and there’s every possibility that you do, you just have to grow some in your garden! Growing sweet corn is thoroughly enjoyable. It’s pretty simple too! All you really need is some space and the right information. But don’t go looking for space right now, check out the right information part first! Here’s all you need to know to grow sweet corn from seed.
Sweet corn grows best in open, sunlit locations. You can sow sweet corn seeds when the soil temperature is above 50 degrees Fahrenheit, with no threat of frosts. Prepare the planting site by clearing out all weeds and stones. Next, add good quantities of organic manure or compost to the soil and use a garden tiller to mix it in. Level the surface. This will add to the soil’s nutrient content in addition to improving the drainage. Plant sweet corn seeds at a depth of 1 inch, in rows that are 2-3 feet long. Allow separation of 8-10 inches between the seeds. Water well after you are done planting.
Moisture is essential for seed germination. Make sure the soil receives at least 1-inch water every week. I normally water once every 5-6 days and switch to weekly irrigation after the seeds sprout. I’d recommend a 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch to top the soil around the plantings. This will supply the soil with adequate nutrients and check the growth of weeds. Feed your plants on a monthly basis. You can either use rotted manure or a well-balanced fertilizer for the task.
Sweet corn planted in spring can normally be harvested in the fall end. Ready to harvest sweet corn will have brownish silks that feel dry to touch. Puncture the kernels using your fingers. If the liquid that emerges has a milky appearance, the sweet corn is ready for harvesting. If, on the other hand, a clear liquid emerges on puncturing the kernels, the plants need some more time.
Growing sweet corn is effortless, hassle-free, and very rewarding… Give it a try!