Corn or Maize, scientifically known as Zea mays, is an economically significant grass species and is a major cash crop in the agriculture sector. It is considered a staple food in many countries and some of the biggest food industries in the world are extensively dependent on fresh corns, baby corns, maize grains, corn flakes, corn flour, popcorns, corn starch, etc.
Planting and growing corn in your own home garden is a wonderful & rewarding experience, allowing you to discover the joy of home gardening and an organic harvest.
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But before you begin to grow sweet corn varieties in your garden, this blog will tell you all you need to about growing corn, its varieties, and many benefits. So, let's get into it!
• Growing Sweet Corn: A Rewarding and Enlightening Experience
Many different corn varieties are widely available and popular worldwide, ‘Sweet corn’ being the most popular among home kitchen gardeners, and if you're a big fan of its lovely taste, you must definitely grow it in your garden!
It makes for an unrivaled delicacy when freshly plucked & roasted as ‘Bhutta’ in Indian style. However, did you know that cob starts losing sweetness after 24 hours when sugar gets converted to starch?
Corn is a well-known primary source of carbohydrates & proteins. Apart from many other vitamin & minerals, corn is a vital source of Riboflavin (Vitamin B2) and Vitamin B6.
• More About Maize Plants: What Benefits Do They Provide?
As you might have observed, Maize plants are popular for a variety of reasons. But what makes them such wonderful and favorable garden plants for home gardeners around the world?
Here are a few benefits of the corn plant that will make you fall head over heels for it (just like we did):
1. Improves Soil Quality
Corn plants contribute to soil health by adding organic matter through their roots and crop residue. Did you know that after harvesting, the leftover stalks and leaves can also be composted or tilled into the soil to improve its structure and fertility?
This makes the maize plant a wonderful addition to gardens both before and after its harvest!
2. Attracts Beneficial Insects
Corn plants are known to attract beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings, which help control pests such as aphids. This natural pest control can benefit other crops in your garden, creating a healthier ecosystem.
3. Great Companion Plant
Maize plants contribute to soil health by adding organic matter through their roots and crop residue. After harvesting, the leftover stalks and leaves can be composted or tilled into the soil to improve its structure and fertility.
4. Fresh, Nutritious Harvest
Corn grown at home provides a fresh and highly nutritious crop. Sweet corn is rich in fiber, vitamins B and C, and antioxidants, making it a healthy addition to your diet. The flavor of freshly picked corn is unmatched compared to store-bought varieties.
5. Versatile Culinary Uses
All different types of corn are incredibly versatile crops. You can enjoy corn boiled, grilled, or roasted, and use it in various dishes such as salads, soups, and side dishes. Additionally, homegrown corn can be dried for popcorn or used for making cornmeal, providing endless culinary possibilities.
So, let your inner chef take the wheel and get creative with how you can use the corn you've grown in your garden!
• Types of Corn Often Grown Worldwide
Yes, sweet corn is one of the most commonly grown corn varieties. But there are also some more that are just as popularly known for their versatile uses and many benefits.
So, here are 3 types of corn that you must know about:
1. Sweet Corn
This is the most popular variety for home gardeners due to its tender kernels and naturally sweet flavor. This type of corn is harvested while still immature, preventing the sugars from converting into starch, which gives it its characteristic sweetness.
Sweet corn is perfect for eating fresh, grilling, or cooking as corn on the cob. It can also be frozen for future use.
2. Dent Corn
These corn varieties are easily recognized by the "dent" that forms in their kernels as they dry. This corn is primarily grown for processing into cornmeal, flour, and animal feed.
The kernels of dent corn are hard and starchy, making them ideal for milling. While not typically eaten fresh like sweet corn, it is a versatile crop that can also be used to make hominy or tortillas.
3. Flint Corn
Also known as Indian corn, this kind of corn is distinguished by its hard, glassy kernels that come in a range of vibrant colors, such as red, orange, yellow, and even blue.
Flint corn is highly resistant to spoilage due to its durable nature. While it's not typically eaten fresh, it's perfect for making popcorn, cornmeal, and polenta. The colorful varieties are also often used for ornamental purposes, particularly during fall decorations.
• Growing Corn Plants: How to Begin and What to Do
Corn or maize plants are rather easy to grow considering you know what to do. So, here are a few things you must keep in mind while growing corn crops:
1. Maize Soil Requirements
Corn thrives in well-drained, loamy soil rich in organic matter. Work compost or well-rotted manure into the soil before planting.
Ensure the soil pH is between 6.0 and 6.8 for optimal growth. Additionally, remember that it is also very important to plant corn in an area that gets full sun.
2. Corn Growing Requirements
Corn is wind-pollinated, so ideally it should be planted in blocks rather than single rows for better pollination.
Sow your sweet corn seeds about 1 inch deep and 8–12 inches apart, with rows spaced 24–36 inches apart. Plant the seeds when the soil temperature reaches at least 16°C for proper germination.
3. Water Regularly
Maize plants need consistent moisture, especially during the growing season. Water the plants deeply, ensuring they receive about 1 to 1.5 inches of water per week.
Mulch around the base of your plants to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.
4. Fertilize Throughout Growth
Corn is a heavy feeder, so provide additional nutrients throughout the growing season.
The best fertilizer for sweet corn is a balanced fertilizer, used when planting. Side-dress the plant with a nitrogen-rich fertilizer once it is about 12 inches tall, then again when it starts to tassel.
5. Monitor and Harvest
Keep an eye on pests like corn earworms and diseases such as rust or smut. Corn is ready for harvest when the silk turns brown and the kernels are plump and milky.
Typically, this happens about 18 to 24 days after the silks first appear. Harvest the ears by twisting them downward from the stalk.
With the right kind of care and understanding of their individual needs, Sweet Corn plants can be grown beautifully in gardens worldwide. So, now that you know better, get your seeds ready and plant away!
Happy Gardening!
