How to Plant Corn in Pots

Corn is a staple crop that is grown in gardens and farms throughout the world. For those who do not have access to garden space, growing corn in pots is a great option. With the right growing conditions and care, corn can flourish in pots and produce a bountiful harvest. In this article, we will discuss the steps for successfully planting corn in pots.

Choose the Right Pot

The first step to successfully growing corn in pots is to choose the right pot. Corn grows tall and requires a deep root system to support its growth. Select a pot that is at least 18 inches in diameter and 24 inches deep. Make sure the pot has proper drainage to prevent water from stagnant and root rot.

Prepare the Soil

After selecting a pot, it is essential to fill it with the right type of soil. Corn requires nutrient-rich soil that is well-draining. Mix together equal parts of garden soil, compost, and perlite. This mixture provides good drainage, plenty of nutrients, and a loose soil structure that helps the roots grow strong.

Plant the Seeds

Plant the corn seeds 1 inch deep in the soil, spaced 6 inches apart. Gently cover the seeds with soil and water them in. Corn seeds require a lot of moisture to germinate, so make sure they are evenly moist. Keep the soil moist until the corn sprouts, which typically takes seven to ten days.

Provide Sunlight and Water

Corn needs plenty of sunlight to grow properly. Place the pot in a location that receives at least six hours of sunlight per day. Keep the soil moist by checking it daily and watering when the top 1-2 inches of soil are dry. It is essential to avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot.

Fertilize the Corn

As the corn grows, it will require additional nutrients to support its growth. Apply a slow-release fertilizer when the plants are a few inches tall, and continue to fertilize them every four weeks. Choose a fertilizer that is high in nitrogen, as corn is a heavy feeder and requires a lot of nutrients to thrive.

Provide Support

Corn can grow quite tall, sometimes up to eight feet. As the corn grows, it may require additional support to avoid falling over. Staking or using a trellis system can help to support the corn stalks and prevent them from bending or breaking. Secure the stalks gently to avoid damaging the plants.

Harvest the Corn

Corn typically takes 60-100 days to reach maturity, depending on the variety. To know when the corn is ready, check for the appearance of tassels at the top of the plant, which usually appears around eight weeks after planting. Mature corn can be harvested by pulling the ear down and twisting it at the base, or by cutting the ear off with a knife. Freshly harvested corn is delicious and can be enjoyed boiled, grilled, or baked.

In conclusion, planting corn in pots is an excellent way to grow this wonderful crop, even if you do not have garden space. By following these steps, you can successfully grow corn in a pot and enjoy its delicious flavor and numerous health benefits.