To plant corn in your community garden plot or to NOT plant corn in your community garden plot?
Fresh corn is one of the joys of summertime. The serious corn connoisseur will have you boil the water first and then pick the ears to make sure corn flavor is at its peak.
However, growing this crop can be controversial in the community garden. Here is why:
Corn is Wind Pollinated
You will not get much corn with a few stalks. Corn is wind pollinated and each kernel of corn is formed from one grain of pollen. It takes a large amount of pollen at just the right place on a corn plant to give you nice full ears of corn. Larger stands will produce a higher quality crop than a smaller stand.
If you really want to have fresh corn of your own think, about planting corn in blocks and not rows. This will increase pollination. Also, as the corn tassels you could help pollination along by gently shaking the stalks.
Corn is Tall and Subject to Wind Damage
Corn is a tall, thin plant with a somewhat shallow root system. That means any thunderstorm with a windy component could really damage your crop. If you are a corn farmer with many acres of corn, wind from our afternoon thunderstorm might take out a few stalks at the perimeter of the corn stand. If you are growing only 10 stalks, that damage could really affect your dinner plate.
Some community gardens like to stake each corn plant, like you would a pepper plant. This adds extra support for those afternoon storms.
Corn Can Shade Out Other Crops
Corn is a tall crop and may shade out the rest of your plot or even your neighbor’s garden plot. There are shorter varieties which might be more appropriate for your garden but even shorter varieties like Golden Bantam or Sweetness Hybrid grow to 5 feet. Growing Home Garden Sweet Corn has information on varieties recommended for Georgia.
Tom Thumb popcorn only grows 3-4 feet. Popcorn is not quite the same, I know.
Think about asking for a plot on the perimeter of your community garden so shading won’t be a factor. Growing only corn for one season may improve your chances of a higher quality crop.
There are so many aspects to consider just to get fresh corn on your plate. Who knew it could be so controversial?
Happy Gardening!
Becky is a Georgia Certified Beekeeper and works with community and school gardeners to increase beneficial insect habitat.She is the coordinator of the Great Georgia Pollinator Census, happening this year on August 19th and 20th, 2022.She is also part of UGA's Native Plants and Beneficial Insect Working Group.
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- 6th Annual Great Southeast Pollinator Census - May 28, 2024
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Fresh corn in the summer is a delight! Who knew there were so many considerations?
True, all true. If you have a large communal area in your garden, corn can be wonderful. In a raised bed, not so hot. Nothing is better than fresh corn.