Re: Can You Grow Corn in Small Spaces?

**D*@aol.com**

Hi, all,

I've also succeeded with roughly 1mx3m (~3'x6') beds of sweet corn, without 
hand pollinating (tho that can be fun and a good lesson). I plant corn, like 
most veggies, using John Jeavon's hexagonal spacing, so you pack in as many 
plants as possible. I put plants on 30cm (12") centers. I do something else 
(that's not necessary, since you can direct seed corn just fine (it is often 
grown in 'mounds' of several plants together in traditional systems - look 
ma, no thinning!)) - I start corn in peat pots and plant out the whole pot 
when the batch is a foot tall or a bit less. That way I get a very uniform 
stand, and I get started earlier. Be careful to pick a good variety for your 
area, I'd suggest a short stalked sweet variety (ask a local gardener or, if 
you have a good non-nozzlehead agent, coop extension). Tall corn can blow 
down pretty easily in a small patch. Corn is a big feeder and drinker, so 
plant in fertile beds, water regularly, even consider supplementing with some 
manure or other nutrient (esp. nitrogen) source. Finally, be careful about 
critters. Around here, it is squirrels and raccoons, who raid the night 
before you plan to harvest. Bummer! Libby's advice on planting is very good, 
I also companion plant my corn, especially when I plant a large plot by 
direct seeding. Half-runner beans are great companions.

Dreaming about corn and reading seed catalogs. Must be January...

Don
Charlotte, NC

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