Care Instructions - Papa's Blue Corn

• Days to Harvest:

Painted Mountain Corn typically reaches maturity and is ready for harvest approximately 75 to 90 days after planting, depending on growing conditions.

• Seed Depth:

Plant Painted Mountain Corn seeds about 1 to 2 inches deep in well-draining soil. Ensure the planting site receives full sunlight for optimal growth.

• Average Germination Period:

The seeds generally germinate within 7 to 14 days, depending on the soil temperature and moisture levels. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged during germination.

• Light Requirements:

Painted Mountain Corn requires full sun to thrive. Ensure it receives at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily for the best development and yield.

• Soil and Fertilization:

Prepare the soil with compost or well-rotted manure before planting to provide a nutrient-rich foundation for your corn. Side-dress with compost when the plants are about knee-high to support their rapid growth phase. Avoid using chemical fertilizers to maintain soil health and ecosystem balance.

• Watering:

Corn plants need consistent moisture, especially during germination, pollination, and as the cobs begin to fill out. Water deeply once or twice a week, more frequently if the weather is particularly hot or dry. Mulching can help retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.

• Support and Training:

Painted Mountain Corn is sturdy and generally does not require support, but in areas with high winds, some form of windbreak or support might be beneficial to prevent lodging (falling over).

• Companion Planting:

     The "Three Sisters" is a typical companion planting guild used by Indigenous peoples of Turtle Island (what is now known as the Americas) where they used three plants that mutually benefit each other: Corn, Beans, and Squash. Each provides something the other needs and will produce an amazing harvest! Note: Be sure to use pole bean varieties that will climb the corn stalks and use squash that will either vine out to cover the ground or if they are a variety that doesn't vine out, plant them a bit closer together and more of them.

• Pruning:

Pruning is not required for corn plants, but removing any side shoots or suckers that develop can help direct the plant's energy into growing taller and producing ears.

• Pollination:

Corn relies on wind for pollination. Planting in blocks rather than single rows ensures better pollination and cob development, as the wind can more easily distribute pollen among the plants.

• Harvesting:

Painted Mountain Corn is ready for harvest when the husks are green, silks are brown and dry, and the kernels are plump and milky when pierced. Gently pull the ear down and twist to remove from the stalk.

By adhering to these care instructions and emphasizing regenerative agricultural practices with compost and organic fertilizers, you can cultivate robust Painted Mountain Corn plants that yield colorful and nutritious corn while fostering soil health and environmental sustainability.