How to Plant Corn in Blocks or Squares

Corn requires a lot of room to grow and produce. Plant the corn after the middle of May when all danger of frost is past and the soil temperature is above 60 degrees Fahrenheit. If corn is planted too early, the seeds won't germinate and you risk the seeds rotting. Also, sweet corn won't be as sweet if planted too early. For better pollination, plant corn in blocks or squares of four rows instead of two long thin rows.

Garden fork or tiller
Compost
Manure
Yard stick or tape measure
Twine
Sticks
Mulch

Instructions

- 1
  Dig up the garden area with a garden fork or tiller to a depth of 12 inches. Amend the soil with 3 to 4 inches of compost and a 1/2 inch to 1 inch of manure. Level and smooth out the soil with a rake.
- 2
  Mark the first row with twine attached to two sticks. When marking out the blocks or squares, have four or more rows. An area that is 6 feet across by 12 feet long will give you the necessary four rows.
- 3
  Sow one corn seed every 6 inches in the first row going across. Space the rows 2.5 to 3 feet apart.
- 4
  Push the corn seeds into the soil with your finger or a dibble stick to a depth of 1 inch. Cover the seeds with amended soil and gently firm the soil in place.
- 5
  Water the seeds to keep the soil moist, but not soggy wet. It takes about one to two weeks for the seeds to germinate. After the corn is growing, give the plants at least 1 inch of water per week.
- 6
  Place a 2- to 4-inch layer of organic mulch over the ground to keep weeds from growing and help the soil retain moisture.

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