Early Golden Bantam Corn Guide
TO SOW
Corn grow best in warmer weather between 65°F-95°F. Container or indoor growing is not recommended. Bank on Seeds recommends direct seeding.
If Direct Seeding
- Direct seed outside 3-4 weeks after last frost date; or
If Transplanting
Corn usually does not transplant well. However, if you do, start the seeds indoors 2 weeks after last frost date in biodegradable pods that will let the roots grow through; clingwrap the top of the container to seal in the warmth. Germination is best and fastest between 70°F-75°F. It can be transplanted outside 4 weeks later.
Sow corn seeds 1 inch deep and 6 inches apart. Planting in several short rows rather than one long row yields higher pollination rates. You need at least 4-6 seeds sown near each other for pollination. Leave 24-36 inches in between each row. Germination will take 5-12 days. When the seedlings are 6 inches tall, thin them to 12-16 inches apart.
TO GROW
Corn like well-draining, loose soil free of weeds. They also like full sun and regular watering. Keep the soil evenly moist especially in hotter weather when corn grows fast. Avoid wetting the leaves and tassels of the corn to deter fungal diseases and smaller yields.
Apply mulch to the top of soil to retain moisture, regulate temperature and deter weeds. Corn likes fertilizer high in nitrogen and needs a lot of nutrients. Use 16-16-8 fertilizer or add aged compost every 30 days.
TO REAP
Days to maturity take 75 days. Corn is ready to harvest when the silk on the ears turn brown or the kernel juice turns milky not clear when squeezed. Twist the ear sharply downwards to pick the corn.
PESTS/DISEASES
Cutworms, corn ear worms, corn borers, flea beetles – handpick often, apply a tiny amount of mineral oil to the top of each ear of corn, spray with pesticide containing Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt)
Smut – fungal, destroy affected plants, do not plant in the same spot for at least 2 years
Stewart’s wilt – bacterial spread by flea beetles, place wood ash or agricultural lime around the corn, control flea beetles
*Plant corn with potatoes, peas, beans, cucumbers, pumpkins, and squash. Avoid planting with pole beans.*
