Corn Zea mays subsp. mays
ABOUT
Corn is a tall, cereal grain plant that can grow up to 7-10 feet (2-3 meters) in height. It has a long, slender stalk with multiple leaves and a single ear containing rows of kernels. The length and girth of the ear of corn can vary depending on the variety.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Poaceae
Synonyms
Maize, Corn
Common names
Zea mays
ToxicityTo humans
Corn is safe for human consumption and is a staple food in many cultures. However, some people may have an allergy to corn or may experience digestive discomfort if they eat too much of it.
To pets
For animals, corn is a common ingredient in livestock feed, and it is safe for them to consume in moderation. However, feeding them too much corn can lead to health problems such as obesity, liver disease, and digestive issues. Additionally, corn cobs and husks can pose a choking hazard to pets such as dogs and cats.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Annuals
Color of leaves
Green
Height
Up to 10 feet
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3
Native area
Mexico
Benefits
General BenefitsProvides energy: Corn is a good source of carbohydrates, which provide energy to the body.
Good for digestion: Corn is rich in fiber which helps in maintaining a healthy digestive system.
Helps in weight management: Corn is low in calories and high in fiber, which can help in weight management.
Good source of minerals: Corn is a good source of minerals like magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium.
Versatile ingredient: Corn can be used in a variety of dishes, from soups and salads to main dishes and snacks.
Medical PropertiesGood source of dietary fiber: Corn is rich in both soluble and insoluble fiber, which can help improve digestion and promote bowel regularity.
Contains antioxidants: Corn contains several antioxidants, including lutein and zeaxanthin, which can help protect against oxidative damage in the body.
May help lower cholesterol levels: Some studies have shown that consuming corn may help reduce LDL ("bad") cholesterol levels.
Rich in vitamins and minerals: Corn is a good source of several important vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, thiamine, and folate.
May support healthy vision: The antioxidants in corn, particularly lutein and zeaxanthin, may help protect against age-related macular degeneration and other eye diseases.
Air-purifying QualitiesThere is limited research on the air-purifying qualities of corn.
Other UsesFuel: Corn can be used to produce ethanol, which is a biofuel used in many countries as a cleaner alternative to gasoline.
Biodegradable plastics: Cornstarch can be used to make biodegradable plastics, which can break down naturally in the environment without causing harm.
Cosmetics: Cornstarch is a common ingredient in many cosmetic products, such as powders, facial masks, and dry shampoos, due to its ability to absorb moisture.
Animal feed: Corn is a major ingredient in animal feed, as it is a good source of energy and protein for many types of livestock.
Art: Corn husks and silk can be used to make beautiful and intricate artwork, such as dolls, ornaments, and even jewelry.
Bedding: Corn stalks and leaves can be used as bedding for livestock, as they are absorbent and can help keep animals warm.
Cooking: Corn can be used in many different types of cuisine, from tortillas and tamales in Mexican cuisine to cornbread and grits in Southern cuisine.
Garden mulch: Cornstalks and leaves can be used as garden mulch, as they break down quickly and can help enrich the soil.
Home decor: Corn husks can be used to make a variety of home decor items, such as wreaths, baskets, and cornucopias.
Musical instruments: Some Native American tribes use corn stalks to make traditional musical instruments, such as flutes and rattles.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiIn feng shui, corn is believed to represent abundance and fertility, and is often used to enhance the energy of the Wealth and Prosperity area of the home or workspace.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityIn astrology, corn is not associated with a specific zodiac sign.
Plant SymbolismCorn has various symbolic meanings in different cultures. For example, in Native American cultures, corn is considered a sacred food and is associated with growth, sustenance, and fertility. In some African cultures, corn is associated with life, fertility, and renewal. In modern Western culture, corn is often associated with summer and outdoor activities like barbecues and picnics.
WaterIt should be watered deeply and regularly, providing 1 to 1.5 inches of water per week, depending on weather conditions. During periods of drought or high heat, more frequent watering may be necessary.
LightCorn is a warm-season crop that requires full sun exposure and warm temperatures to thrive.
TemperatureOnce established, corn is relatively tolerant of high temperatures and can grow in a wide range of temperatures between 60 and 95°F. However, it may suffer from heat stress when temperatures consistently exceed 90°F during the daytime.
PruningCorn does not require pruning as it grows in a natural, untrained form.
CleaningNot needed
SoilCorn is usually grown in the ground and doesn't require repotting. However, it is important to choose the right soil for growing corn, which should be fertile and well-draining with a pH of 6.0 to 6.8.
RepottingCorn does not require transplanting as it grows in a natural, untrained form.
Humidity & MistingThe ideal humidity level for corn is around 50 to 60 percent.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Not growing
Outdoor
Cultivated almost all over the world during the growing season
Hardiness zone
USDA 4 and higher
Life cycleThe life cycle of corn typically takes around 75 to 100 days, depending on the variety and environmental conditions. Here are the different stages of corn's life cycle:
Germination: Corn seeds germinate in about 5-12 days after planting.
Vegetative growth: During this stage, the plant produces leaves, stems, and roots. This stage lasts for about 50-70 days depending on the variety.
Reproductive growth: This is the stage when the plant develops its tassel and ear. This stage lasts for about 18-24 days.
Pollination: Corn is wind-pollinated, and the pollen is released from the tassel and lands on the silks of the ear, which then develops into kernels. Pollination usually takes place about 2-3 weeks after the tassel emerges.
Grain fill: This is the stage when the kernels begin to fill with starch and sugars. This stage lasts for about 20-30 days.
Maturity: The corn reaches maturity when the kernels are fully developed and the husks turn brown and dry. This stage usually occurs about 100 days after planting for most varieties.
Harvest: Corn is ready for harvest when the kernels are firm and the husks have turned brown and dry. Harvest time can vary depending on the variety and environmental conditions but usually occurs in late summer or early fall.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring - early summer
Corn is usually propagated by planting seeds directly in the soil. The time for sowing seeds depends on the location and climate. In general, corn is planted in the spring, when soil temperatures reach at least 60°F (15.5°C) and after the last frost date. For most regions, this is between late April and early June. In warmer regions, corn can be planted earlier, and in cooler regions, later planting may be necessary.
Corn can also be started indoors 2-3 weeks before the last frost date in peat pots or other biodegradable containers that can be planted directly in the ground, to give them a head start. However, because corn is sensitive to transplant shock, it is important to handle the seedlings gently and transplant them carefully. It is recommended to transplant seedlings when they are at least 6 inches tall and have at least two sets of leaves.
The seeds should be planted 1-2 inches deep and 4-6 inches apart in rows that are 2-3 feet apart. After germination, thin the plants to 12-18 inches apart to allow each plant to have enough space to grow.
PestsSpider mite, Aphid, Bagworms
DiseasesAnthracnose, Rust, Leaf blight
