How to Tell When Popcorn Is Finished Growing

Homegrown popcorn fully matures on the cob. Unlike sweet corn, which is harvested at a tender stage before full maturity, popcorn must fully dry on the cob. The lower the moisture content in the kernels, the more even the popping when you prepare the corn. Some moisture remains trapped in the kernel to provide the pop when it is heated. The moisture turns to steam inside the kernel and causes the meat of the kernel to pop out.

Knife
Mesh bag
Container

Instructions

- 1
  Pull back the husk slightly to reveal the kernels once the husk has completely dried and turned papery. Press the kernels with your thumbnail. Fully dried popcorn kernels don't dent under the pressure.
- 2
  Bend the cob down toward the stalk. Twist the ear as you bend, separating it from the stalk.
- 3
  Peel the husks down from the corn ears. Cut the husks off of the cob at their base.
- 4
  Place the ears inside a mesh bag. Hang the bag in a dry, well-ventilated area for approximately four weeks.
- 5
  Remove four or five kernels from the cob. Use your thumb or the tip of a knife to level the kernels from the cob. Point the cob and knife away from you to prevent injury.
- 6
  Pop the kernels. If 75 percent of the kernels pop, the corn is sufficiently dry.
- 7
  Remove the remaining kernels from the cob. Store in a sealed container for up to one year.

How to Plant Ruby Queen Hybrid Corn

Tips on Growing Corn Stalks

Growing Corn