Growing Sweet corn, also corn,maize

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15 Feb 25 Nancy McAlary (Australia - sub-tropical climate)
I have been growing corn for several years, in small blocks in my suburban garden plot (6 to 12 stems at time). I stagger the planting to have a more continuous supply. In order to get full cobs (no gaps), corn, which is movement/wind pollinated, needs to have pollen from the top fall onto the lower cobs (with their silks showing). All I do is determine whether the pollen is ripe by tapping the top stem. They usually release pollen twice a day, in morning and then later in the day. If I see a small cloud of pollen falling, I break a few pieces of the top male flower spike and place them across the silks. If you have a big plot of corn they should self-pollinate easily and don't need this done, if you have smaller plots like me, it will always guarantee full cobs.
15 Mar 25 (Australia - sub-tropical climate)
I read that corn pollinates for 5 days. So after about 2-3 days I wrap my hand around the bottom of the tassel and run my hand upwards. The pollen falls down onto the silks. Pick 21 days approx after pollination
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This planting guide is a general reference intended for home gardeners. We recommend that you take into account your local conditions in making planting decisions. GardenGrow is not a farming or commercial advisory service. For specific advice, please contact your local plant suppliers, gardening groups, or agricultural department. The information on this site is presented in good faith, but we take no responsibility as to the accuracy of the information provided.
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