how to plant corn

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To plant corn successfully, follow these key steps:

Plant corn after the last average killing frost, when soil temperatures are consistently between 60°F and 90°F. Planting too early in cold soil can cause weak growth or seedling death

Choose a location with full sun (at least 8-10 hours daily) and well-drained, loamy soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.8.
Till the soil 6 to 8 inches deep, avoiding working it when too wet to prevent clods.
Improve soil fertility by mixing in aged compost or organic matter.
A soil test is recommended to determine lime and fertilizer needs. If not tested, apply a balanced fertilizer like 10-10-10 before planting and sidedress with nitrogen fertilizer during the growing season

Sow seeds about 1 inch deep.
Space seeds 8 to 12 inches apart within rows, with rows 3 feet apart.
Plant corn in blocks of short rows (at least 4 rows side-by-side) rather than one long row to ensure good wind pollination, which is vital for ear development

For small gardens, 15 plants spaced 1 foot apart in a 3x5-foot bed is a good start

Corn requires about 1 inch of water per week, especially during pollination and ear filling.
Water deeply to moisten soil to a 6-inch depth, preferably in early morning or evening.
Keep the area weed-free with shallow cultivation or mulching to conserve moisture.
Support stalks by mounding soil around the base to prevent wind damage

Sweet corn is ready to harvest about 20 days after silk appearance.
Harvest when silks are dry and brown, and kernels are plump and release a milky juice when punctured

By following these guidelines, you can grow healthy corn plants that produce good yields