Corn not growing

Jul 26, 2003 3 Replies

I plant two different varieties of corn. One is early and the other is late variety. The early corn is about 3 feet tall the late one is about



3-5 feet high and the tassels have all ready developed but no signs of the ears developing. Its grown in hard clay. Does this mean the corn will not develope any ears? I planted corn in the same area last year and had no problems but it was a different variety. We been getting enough rain here in northern Ohio. Should I use lot of high nitrogen fertilizer? Or is it too late and give up on it?

Clay soil has a lot of nutrients in it, but corn (like most grasses) uses nitrogen. I would apply it, but something like Miracle Grow according to the label directions. Rotate your crop next year and prep your soil by tilling in compost (or any organic matter) and

10-10-10.

One thing of note is that corn will not form properly unless there is a block of at least 4 rows. A "block" should contain at least 10 plants per row, with 4 rows. This is required becuase corn is wind pollinated and needs a good bit of pollen to get it to developing. You may still get some corn without this, but much of the corn will not form properly, with many undeveloped kernels on each ear. Planting more than one variety is not generally a good idea, unless as you've mentioned one is early and one is late. If they were to come to tassel at around the same time you could end up with a number of deformed ears as a result.

And as already suggested corn is definately a heavy feeder and required a good deal of nitrogen. Dried, pre-composted manure is considered a very good fertilzer for corn. Fresh manure can be used as well but is not generally reccommended...

I know that you are a stupid troll that knows nothing at all about gardening, Broccoli!

Join the Discussion

Have something to add? Share your thoughts — no account required.

Didn't find your answer?

Ask the community — no account required