How to Plant Sweet Corn

Sweet corn is not only a delicious crop but also a relatively easy crop to grow. If you have a sunny patch of land in your garden, you can grow sweet corn to enjoy fresh, juicy and sweet corn straight from the cob. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to plant sweet corn.

Preparing the Soil

The first step is preparing the soil. Sweet corn prefers nutrient-rich, well-draining soil. Start by clearing the area of any weeds or debris. Add a layer of compost to enrich the soil. Mix the compost into the soil to a depth of 6 to 8 inches.

Planting Sweet Corn

Plant the sweet corn seeds directly into the soil once the soil temperature has reached around 55掳F. Plant the seeds 1 inch deep and 4 to 6 inches apart. Space each row 30 to 36 inches apart. Cover the seeds with soil and gently water the soil.

Caring for Sweet Corn

Caring for sweet corn involves regular watering, fertilizing and weed control. Water the sweet corn regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Fertilize the plants with a balanced fertilizer every four weeks throughout the growing season. Control weeds by pulling them out before they get a chance to compete with the sweet corn plants.

Harvesting Sweet Corn

Sweet corn is ready to harvest when the silks have turned brown and the kernels look plump and fully developed. Simply hold the corn at its base and snap it off the stalk. Remove the husk, silk and any additional debris from the cob to reveal the sweet, juicy kernels.

Storing Sweet Corn

To enjoy sweet corn later in the year, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to five days. Place the corn in a plastic bag to keep it fresh. For longer-term storage, blanch the corn by boiling it for 4 minutes, then plunge it into cold water for 4 minutes. Once cooled, cut the kernels off the cob and freeze them for up to 10 months.

In conclusion, planting sweet corn is a simple process that yields delicious results. By following these steps and caring for the crop properly, you can enjoy fresh, juicy and sweet corn all summer long.