Especially at the beginning of its growth, maize makes high demands in terms of nutrient and water supply. A supply of sufficient nitrogen is particularly important, especially during the growth phase.

The optimal soil preparation

The soil should be prepared for planting with corn in the previous year. It makes sense to apply rich compost in the fall. Horse manure is also very suitable for natural fertilization. The compost or manure is dug up and at best you sow mustard seeds or phacelia on top of it, which is also dug up in the spring. Green manure contains a lot of nitrogen and other growth-promoting elements and is therefore ideal for soil preparation. Before sowing the seed or the plantlets that have been brought forward, the soil is dug up deep, loosened well and weeds removed. From the beginning to mid-May, corn plants or seeds can be brought into the open-air bed.

Fertilize generously during the growth phase

During the growth phase in particular, you should regularly remove weeds from the bed and fertilize with nitrogen. It is advisable not to give more than three, at most four doses in a period of about two months. Too much nitrogen eventually results in reduced growth. If you want to fertilize naturally, it is best to use nettle manure. This easy-to-make liquid really doesn't smell nice, but it's an excellent fertiliser.

How to make nettle manure yourself

Fill a plastic bucket or stone vat (do not use a metal container!) with freshly picked and chopped nettles. Douse the plants with water until they are eventually covered. Place a cloth over the opening. Now stir the mixture daily. After two to three weeks, fermentation begins - you will notice it from the smell - and the liquid manure is ready. But be careful: please only water the plants with diluted manure (approx. 1 part manure to 10 parts water), otherwise the concentration will be too strong.

Non-organic fertilization

If, on the other hand, you rely on non-biological fertilization, follow this scheme for optimal success:

  • Application of phosphorus and potash in autumn
  • Application of lime before planting / sowing
  • Fertilize with nitrogen before / during the growth phase (no more than three times)

If the plant is about a man's height, no further fertilization is usually necessary.

tips and tricks

Instead of nettle manure, you can also fertilize your corn very well with guano (€121.99). Maybe you keep chickens and / or pigeons yourself or know someone - their nitrogen-rich droppings are ideal as fertilizer for corn and many other plants. Please always use heavily diluted!

IJA

Category:

Vegetable garden