Germination of Hopi Blue Maize

Planting Depth and Spacing

• Blue corn seeds should be planted about an inch deep but can be sown shallower in well-monitored, controlled environments. Plant two seeds per foot, but thin the plants shortly after plants emerge so one healthy plant remains per foot. Space rows 3 feet apart. Hopi blue corn is open pollinated, so it should be planted at least 750 feet or so from other types of corn to maintain blue seed color throughout subsequent generations.

Moisture and Temperature

• Although established Hopi blue corn plants require minimal water and will suffer under excessive irrigation, seeds require adequate moisture in order to germinate. Soil temperatures must be at least 60 degrees Fahrenheit for germination but should not exceed 85 degrees Fahrenheit.

Soil

• Hopi blue corn is adaptable to various conditions but has evolved to thrive in a sandy, dry environment. Excessively fertile soil can force growth and cause problems. Hopi blue corn seed can be sown in peat pots or a peat-based germination mixture and then transplanted into its permanent location. This corn is not recommended for container growing.

Growing Time

• Hopi blue corn seeds should germinate in four to 14 days. This plant typically reaches maturity within about 100 days.

Young Plant Care

• Young Hopi blue corn plants must be stressed with low soil moisture and nutrition until they have at least 12 leaves. If too much water or nutrients are available, plants will grow too tall and have a tendency to lodge, or tip over. If excessive water was supplied to young plants, piling soil around the base of the stock may help to combat lodging and suppress weeds.