Corn Seeds

West Coast Seeds, Corn Seeds - Additional Information

How to Grow Corn

Planting Schedule:
Plant your corn seeds directly in the garden in late spring, ensuring the soil temperature exceeds 18°C (65°F) to prevent seed rot, which is especially important for untreated seeds. Super-sweet (sh2) varieties demand even warmer soil.

Start seeds indoors on a heat mat for later transplanting in cooler spring conditions. Expect germination within 7-10 days. If heavy rain follows planting and seeds fail to emerge, replant as necessary.


Seed Starting:
Directly sow seeds 2-5cm (1-2 inches) deep into the soil, spacing them about 7.5cm (3 inches) apart in rows that are 60-90cm (24-36 inches) apart.

Since corn relies on wind for pollination, plant in blocks of at least four rows to ensure effective pollen transfer from male to female parts, enhancing kernel formation.


Growing:
Corn prefers a soil pH between 5.8 and 6.8 and is a significant nutrient consumer. Enrich planting furrows with compost or manure and a complete organic fertilizer.

Thin plants to 20-25cm (8-10 inches) apart, adjusting spacing for larger varieties. Maintain a weed-free environment until plants are knee-high.


Harvesting:
Harvest corn when the silks brown and dry and the kernels express milky juice upon slicing. Ears should slightly droop, indicating readiness.


Harvesting Popcorn:
Let ears dry on the stalk for popcorn varieties as long as possible. After the husks are yellow and the kernels harden, harvest and dry indoors if rain is imminent.

Husk the ears and cure in mesh bags at 13-14% humidity, ensuring ideal popping quality. Store dried kernels in an air-tight container for long-lasting enjoyment.

Corn Pests & Diseases

Wireworms:
Wireworms target corn seeds and young seedlings, causing significant damage early in the season.

Rotate crops regularly to disrupt wireworms' life cycle. Work the soil before planting to expose wireworms to predators.

Use beneficial nematodes to target wireworm larvae in the soil. Consider using approved insecticides and applying them strictly according to the label instructions in severe cases.


Loopers:
Loopers, or inchworms, feed on corn leaves, potentially reducing photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Encourage natural predators like birds and beneficial insects that feed on loopers. Keep the field clean of debris to reduce hiding places.

Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) is an effective organic control against loopers. Apply it as soon as you notice loopers, following the product directions for the best results.


Seed Corn Maggot:
This pest attacks seeds before they can germinate, as well as young seedlings.

Delay planting until soil temperatures are warm enough to ensure rapid germination and growth, reducing the window of vulnerability. Use clean cultivation practices and avoid planting in soils high in organic matter or recently manured.

If seed corn maggots are a consistent problem, consider using seed treatments specifically designed to protect against them. Beneficial nematodes can also be applied to the soil to reduce maggot populations for organic control.