How to Germinate Sweet Corn From Seeds

Corn is a staple crop grown in backyards and summer gardens across the United States. Taking up space in the garden, these massive plants can grow to heights of 10 feet or more, producing a mere two ears per stalk. Many gardeners think the sacrifice of space is worth the trade for the sweet, crisp kernels roasted on the grill. The secret to growing vigorous corn plants is to plant them as soon as the danger of frost has passed. To get a head start, many gardeners pre-germinate corn before planting it in the garden.

Prepared garden site
Large bowl
Garden hoe (optional)
Garden hose or watering can

Instructions

- 1
  Pour the corn kernels into a large bowl. The volume of the bowl should be at least two to three times the volume of dried corn kernels.
- 2
  Cover the corn kernels with lukewarm water so that the water is 2 to 3 inches above the top of the kernels. As the kernels take in water, they swell and absorb the excess water.
- 3
  Allow the corn kernels to soak for 24 to 36 hours. These plump kernels begin to germinate quickly and may produce tiny shoots while soaking.
- 4
  Drain the water from the corn kernels.
- 5
  Plant the corn kernels in a prepared garden bed spaced 5 to 6 inches apart. Cover with 1 inch of soil and firm the soil down with your hands or the blade of the hoe.
- 6
  Keep the soil moist, but not soggy, until seedlings emerge.

Uses for Cornstalks

How to Prepare Corn Seed for Next Year's Planting

Growing Corn