How to Grow Sweet Corn in New Zealand

Sweet corn is a vegetable that is quite easy to grow at home, as long as you have a sunny patch of fertile soil. Not only can you produce delicious corn to cook and eat at home, but you can dry and save the kernels to plant for the next crop. New Zealand is home to a mild, temperate climate which is suitable for growing corn; however, if you live an an area that is prone to frost during the cooler months, corn may not be the best option for you.

Corn seeds or seedlings Water Liquid Fertilizer Hoe Knife

Instructions

- 1
  Choose a patch of soil that receives a lot of sunlight. Apply compost to the soil surface, then work the area with a hoe to mix the compost in and aerate the soil.
- 2
  Plant your corn seeds or seedlings in spring, when the warmer weather will help the seeds to germinate. Seeds/seedlings should be planted in rows, each spaced about 1 foot apart.
- 3
  Water your plants regularly, particularly during warm weather, and fertilize your corn plants using a liquid fertilizer during the summer months.
- 4
  Stake your plants if they require support. You may find that your corn plants start to droop as they get taller.
- 5
  Harvest your corn when it is ripe. Watch the white threads that protrude from the end of each ear; when these turn brown your corn is ready to pick. Cut each ear of corn off at it's base with a sharp knife.

Why Corn Stalks Turn Brown

How to Grow Corn in Raised Beds

Growing Corn