Planting Mexican corn in a pot is one of the attractive and practical ways to use this popular plant in limited apartment spaces. Popular worldwide for its unique taste, this sweet and tasty corn is easy to grow at home. By having a suitable pot and following the key points, you can enjoy a fresh and organic product. In addition, planting Mexican corn will be an enjoyable and educational experience for home farming enthusiasts. In this article, we explain the steps of planting and maintenance of this valuable plant in full.
Planting Mexican corn in pots
Choosing the right pot
to plant Mexican cornA pot with a depth of at least 30 cm and a similar diameter is necessary. Corn roots need enough space to grow, so choosing a pot with these dimensions will help the plant develop well. The pot should have drainage holes in the bottom to drain excess water from the soil and prevent root rot. It is also recommended to use a pot holder so that drainage can be done more efficiently and the surrounding environment remains clean.
Preparation of suitable soil
Mexican corn needs rich and fertile soil to grow. The best option is a combination of garden soil, compost and sand. Compost provides nutrients needed by plants, and sand helps improve drainage. Also, adding some rotted manure or vermicompost can provide additional nutrients to the soil. Note that the soil should be soft and light so that the roots can spread easily.
Choosing the right seed
To plant Mexican corn in pots, you need to get quality and healthy seeds. Seeds produced by reputable companies usually have a higher germination percentage. Check the seed before planting and make sure it is of normal color and healthy. If possible, soak the seed in water for 12 to 24 hours to speed up the germination process.
Planting seeds in pots
First, fill the pot up to two thirds with prepared soil. Then put the seeds in the soil about 3 cm deep. Leave at least 15 cm between each seed so that the plants have enough space to grow. After planting, pour a thin layer of soil over the seeds and moisten it with a light sprinkler. Be careful not to compact the soil too much.
Provide enough light
Mexican corn needs a lot of light to grow and needs at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day. Place the pot in a place that receives enough light, such as a balcony or behind a sunny window. If your space does not have enough light, you can use plant growth lamps to meet the plant’s light needs.
Basic irrigation
Corn needs regular watering, but the soil must have good drainage to prevent water retention and root rot. When the surface of the soil is dry, water it again. Overwatering can damage the plant, so always check the soil moisture level. It is better to use lukewarm water and do the irrigation in the morning.
Proper fertilization
Mexican corn is a nutrient-intensive plant and needs fertilization for better growth. Use balanced fertilizers containing nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium. In the early stages of growth, fertilizers with high nitrogen are more suitable, but during flowering and seed production, you should use fertilizers with more phosphorus. Fertilization is recommended every 2 to 3 weeks.
Pest and disease management
Common pests such as aphids and mites may damage corn. For prevention, check the plant regularly and if you see pests, use natural methods such as soap and water spray or vegetable oils. Also, proper ventilation of the environment helps to reduce fungal diseases. If you see signs of yellowing leaves, investigate the cause and take the necessary action.
Pruning and plant maintenance
Pruning dry and yellow leaves helps the plant focus its energy on healthy growth. Periodically prune the lower leaves of the plant that may prevent proper ventilation. Also, if you have a few weak or small stems, remove them so stronger stems can grow better.
Mexican corn harvest time
Mexican corn is usually ready to harvest between 70 and 90 days after planting. The sign of corn readiness is the drying of the silk threads at the end of the cob. To harvest, carefully pull the cob down and separate from the stem. It is better to consume corn immediately after harvesting to enjoy its taste and sweetness more.
Properties of Mexican corn
Properties of Mexican corn It includes strengthening the immune system, improving the health of digestion, heart and blood vessels, skin and hair, and increasing energy due to the presence of fiber, B vitamins, calcium and antioxidants. However, due to its high calories and fat, high sodium, and additives, frequent consumption can lead to weight gain, blood pressure, and heart and digestive problems. To benefit from the properties of Mexican corn, it is recommended to consume it in moderation and preferably its homemade version.
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