Corn - Popcorn Strawberry [Zea mays]

The popcorn 'strawberry corn' is an annual edible rarity from the USA. Puffed corn was cultivated at least 4,000 years ago and has continued to increase ever since. This exotic variety is ideal for popcorn or for decoration. The plants reach a height of 1.60 m and the cobs are also smaller than other types of corn, so they are reminiscent of huge strawberries. The anthocyanin pigments give the corn its red color and retain it even after heating, creating a special red popcorn. The taste is sweet and has a strong aroma of its own, which also tastes very good on its own. Also ideal for grilling.

General information
Plant family: Poaceae
Life Cycle: Annual
Days to harvest: 120 days
Plant height approx.: 160 cm
Root Type: Deep Root
Nutrient requirements: Strong Eaters
Water Requirements: High
Winter hardiness: Up to 3 °C
Location: Sunny
Floor: Permeable, loamy, humus

PH: 5.5 to 7

Sowing and planting information
Germ Type: Dark germ
Seed Depth: 2-3 cm
Optimal germination temperature: 15-25 °C
Germination time: 10-12 days
Planting, row spacing: 30x50 cm

Optimal mixed culture: Beans, peas, cucumbers, pumpkin, phacelia, spinach
Unfavorable mixed culture: Beetroot, celery

Subtropic climate (Mediterranean) (e. g. B. Portugal, Spain, Italy)
Simply sow directly outdoors from February to March.

Moderate climate (e. g. B. Germany, Switzerland, Poland)
Sow directly outdoors from April to May. We recommend pre-cultivation from March in pots without pecking. The plants are ready for planting when they appear stable or have reached a height of 30 cm.

General
Sow or plant corn seedlings in rows or blocks. In order to later close isolated gaps due to the natural germination power, we recommend simultaneous sowing in individual pots (9x9x9cm). We advise block sowing, as the plants thrive better than in unprotected rows. As a wind pollinator, setting in blocks also improves pollination.
Corn prefers a fully sunny location with sufficient water, nutrient-rich and humus soil. Prepare the soil for corn with deposited animal manure.

Additional tips
In order to quickly obtain a fine, crumbly and well-drained soil, an additional incorporation of biochar and primeval rock flour is recommended.

Type of propagation
Spread occurs via seeds.

Care Plants
Corn plants can do without water for a few days, although they should not dry out too much. During long periods of heat, additional water is useful. M It animal manure prepared beds and planting in mixed culture, replaces additional fertilization.

Germination ability of seeds: 5-6 years

Other Names
Botanical names: Zea mays
English Names: Corn
German Names: Mais
Portuguese names: Milho
Spanish names: Maíz
French names: Maïs