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Blue corn: How to Grow, Harvest, Fertilize, and Use Blue corn

Written By: Rob Gardener
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Growing Blue Corn: A Journey of Perseverance and Reward

As I sit here, surrounded by the vibrant blue hue of my freshly harvested blue corn, I am filled with a sense of pride and accomplishment. Growing blue corn is no easy feat, but the end result is well worth the effort. In this article, I will share with you my personal journey of growing blue corn, from the initial seeds to the final product.

Choosing the Right Variety

My journey with blue corn began with the selection of a suitable variety. I spent hours researching different types of blue corn, each with its unique characteristics and growing requirements. After much deliberation, I settled on a popular variety known as "Peruvian Blue". This variety is known for its high yield, vibrant blue color, and ease of growth.

Preparing the Soil

Once I had selected the perfect variety, it was time to prepare the soil. Blue corn is a warm-season crop that requires well-draining, rich soil with a pH range of 6.0-7.0. I added compost and manure to my soil to give it the necessary nutrients for optimal growth.

Sowing the Seeds

With my soil ready, it was time to sow the seeds. I planted the seeds about 1 inch deep and 6 inches apart, in rows that were 3 feet apart. I covered the seeds with a thin layer of soil and watered them thoroughly.

Caring for the Plants

As the seeds germinated, I began to care for the plants. I made sure to provide them with adequate water, but also allowed the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. I also fertilized the plants with a balanced fertilizer, and pruned them to encourage bushy growth.

Dealing with Pests and Diseases

As the plants grew, I encountered a few pests and diseases that threatened to ruin my crop. Aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites were the main culprits, but I was able to control them with the help of organic pest control methods. I also kept a close eye out for fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and rust, and took prompt action to treat them.

Harvesting the Corn

After about 90 days of growth, the blue corn was ready to be harvested. I carefully cut the stalks near the base, leaving a small portion of the stem intact. I then dried the corn in a warm, dry place, either by tying it in bundles and hanging it from a tree, or by spreading it out on a mat.

Threshing and Winnowing

Once the corn was dry, I threshed it to separate the kernels from the cob. I did this by hand, using a wooden tool to rub the kernels from the cob. I then winnowed the kernels to separate them from the chaff.

Final Product

After weeks of hard work, I finally had my hands on a batch of freshly harvested blue corn. The kernels were a vibrant blue color, and the aroma was unmistakable. I popped a kernel and was rewarded with a burst of sweet, crunchy flavor. It was a moment of pure satisfaction, and a testament to the rewards of growing my own blue corn.

Conclusion

Growing blue corn is a journey that requires patience, perseverance, and attention to detail. But the end result is well worth the effort. From the initial seeds to the final product, every step of the process is crucial to the success of the crop. I hope that this article has inspired you to try growing your own blue corn, and that you will enjoy the same rewards that I have.

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