Corn 'Cascade Ruby Gold Flint Mix'

Details:

SITE: Sun

TYPE: Annual

SEED DEPTH: 1"

GERMINATION: 7-10 days at 18°C

MATURITY: 85- 90 Days

HOW TO GROW:

Planting:

• Timing & Method: Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the final frost date. Harden off seedlings gradually before transplanting them outdoors after all risk of frost has passed. Direct sowing is also an option in climates with a long enough growing season.

• Pollination: Arrange in blocks of at least 4 rows for proper pollination, which is needed for well-filled ears. Corn is wind-pollinated, so planting in a block rather than a single long row ensures the pollen from the tassels on one plant can easily reach the silks of its neighbors.

Soil & Fertilizing:

• Soil Preference: Corn thrives in rich, well-drained soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.0). It is a heavy feeder.

• Fertilizing: Work in a balanced vegetable fertilizer at planting. Because corn is a grass, it especially benefits from a second application of a high-nitrogen fertilizer (a process called "side-dressing") when the plants are about a foot tall. This will support the rapid growth of the stalks and leaves.

Watering & Pests:

• Watering: Irrigate frequently through the season. Sufficient water is particularly important at flowering and when the cobs begin to fill. Inconsistent watering can lead to poorly formed cobs.

• Weeds & Pests: Keep weeds under control, as they compete with corn for nutrients and water. Corn can be susceptible to pests like corn earworm and corn borer. Proper plant spacing and a consistent watering schedule help to minimize stress and prevent many issues.

Harvesting:

• Timing: Cobs are ready for harvesting when the 'silks' (the strands at the top of the cob) turn dark brown.

• Maturity Check: To check for optimum maturity, gently peel back a section of the husk and press your thumbnail into a kernel. If the liquid is a milky color, the corn is ready. If it is clear, the corn is immature.