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How to Raise Indian Corn

Indian corn, or Zea mays "Indurata", is a variety of corn with an outer layer on its kernels. The kernels are very hard and also have the common name of flint corn. This type of corn has less starch than sweet corn, and is more commonly used as fall decoration than as a food source. Indian corn grows easily from seed, and home gardeners raise it in a manner similar to that of other types of corn.

Things You'll Need

  • Mulch
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Instructions

    • 1

      Obtain the seeds for the type of Indian corn you wish to raise from a commercial seed provider. Many varieties of Indian corn exist, particularly with regard to the color of the kernels and the length of the ears.

    • 2

      Select a planting site that does not have other types of Indian corn within 100 feet. This prevents cross-pollination that cause you to get Indian corn with unexpected characteristics.

    • 3

      Start the corn seeds in early spring as soon as the last expected frost occurs. Indian corn requires at least three months to fully mature.

    • 4

      Plant the Indian corn seeds to a depth of 1 inch, spacing the seeds at least 1 foot apart. Grow at least five rows of corn to provide adequate pollination. Indian corn pollinates by wind, so it's important that the plants be tightly grouped. A higher pollination rate results in a better harvest.

    • 5

      Water Indian corn regularly during the growing season, especially in a hot summer. This plant should receive 2 inches of water per week from spring until fall. Apply a 2-inch layer of mulch to help the soil retain water.

    • 6

      Harvest ears of Indian corn when the hair turns brown. The kernels on the corn should be fully formed when harvested.