In principle, it is sufficient to sow corn directly outdoors. However, since corn is very sensitive to frost and also flowers quite late, it can make sense to bring it forward. Then the little plants can be brought outside and the cobs can be harvested earlier.

Preculture possible from the end of March

Pre-cultivation in pots is possible from the end of March / beginning of April. To do this, the seeds are placed in pots or seed trays, leaving a distance of about five centimeters between the individual grains. In contrast to potting soil outdoors, the seed soil should not be too nutritious, otherwise the little plants will grow too quickly. It is best to use sterile and nutrient-reduced potting soil. The pots prepared in this way are placed in a bright and warm location - for example a windowsill - and watered regularly. At this point, corn only needs moderate amounts of water. Therefore keep the seed pots moist but not overly wet. Instead of in a pot, corn can also be grown very well in a cold frame under foil.

Put the little plants outside from mid-May

When you place the corn kernels in the seed soil, the tips should be pointing down. Push the seeds under the surface and then fill in about an inch of loose sand or compost soil. Finally, depending on the weather, place the small plants outdoors from the beginning of May. A distance of about 45 x 45 centimeters should be maintained. If possible, do not plant corn plants in rows, but in blocks. In this way, the tall plants offer less surface area for stronger winds to attack. Press the root ball deep into the soil, because corn is a deep root and therefore develops a taproot. Now you should water and fertilize the corn regularly - especially during dry periods.

Proper care in a nutshell

  • choose a sunny and wind-protected location
  • Plant plants in blocks
  • fertilize regularly with nitrogenous fertilizers (e.g. nettle manure)
  • Water regularly, especially during dry periods - but not too wet
  • Maize is ready to harvest from August

tips and tricks

For better germination, soak the seeds in lukewarm water for between eight and ten hours before planting. However, the spring water must not be cold.

IJA

Category:

Vegetable garden