How to Care for Popcorn Plants

Remove the weeds, grass and debris from a sunny planting site with moist, good-draining soil. Dig up the top 6 inches of soil with a shovel and break up the large dirt clumps. Mix in a 2- to 4-inch layer of compost into the loosened soil. Broadcast 1 to 1 1/2 lbs. of 12-12-12 slow-release fertilizer per 100 square feet of planting site. Mix this amendment into the top 4 inches of soil and rake level.

Create short rows 1 to 2 inches deep with the edge of a garden hoe. Space the rows 36 inches apart. Block planting ensures better wind pollination than one long row. Place the seeds 8 to 10 inches apart in the rows. Brush the soil into the rows to cover the seeds. Do not pack the soil down over the top of the seeds, since this will cause crusting and make it difficult for the seedlings to emerge from the soil.

Sprinkle the soil with water until the planting area is wet to the depth of 2 inches. Keep the soil damp all season, especially during tassel, silk and ear formation. Dry conditions cause the plants to grow stunted and uneven production of popcorn ears. Popcorn plants require 1 1/2 to 2 inches of water each week.

Feed the plants 1/2 lb. 12-12-12 slow-release fertilizer when the stalks are knee high and 1/4 lb. when the tassels appear. Sprinkle the granules 3 inches from the base of the stalks. Scratch the fertilizer into the top inch of the soil with a rake. Water the soil immediately after feeding to activate the fertilizer.

Pick the ears of popcorn when the plants have dried out turning brown, close to the first of October. The husks and kernels are dry and hard. Husk the ears and place them in a warm, dry area. Let the popcorn dry for two to three week before using.