Corn, Ornamental and Popcorn

Introduction

Ornamental corn varieties are mostly flint type corns (Zea mays indurata) with hard variously colored kernels. While originally grown for milling, today they are grown primarily for ornamental purposes. Popcorn (Zea mays everta) is a variant of flint corn that can be popped. Broom corn (Sorghum vulgare), which is commonly grown as an ornamental, is not actually corn, but rather a relative of the sorghum grown for syrup and seed.

All of these ornamental corns will grow in any sunny, well-drained, fertilized soil that will grow field or sweet corn, but may require significantly more frost-free days to properly mature. Adequate moisture, especially after the ears form, is necessary. Isolation from other types of corn is suggested. Bird and insect damage is often a concern. Use nutrient and pest management recommendations for sweet corn.

Types and Varieties

Hybrids are available, but most ornamental corn varieties are open-pollinated. Seed can be saved if it is isolated from other types of corn including sweet corn and dent corns. Ornamental popcorn should be considered for miniature decorative ears and the dual purpose of popping.

Soil Fertility

See Sweet corn Soil Fertility and Nutrient Recommendations in the next section.

Planting

Because of its hard seed coat, ornamental corn should be planted early to allow for full maturity on the stalks. Plant at a spacing of 9-10" within rows and 30-36" between rows at 1-1.5" deep. Keep ornamental corn away from sweet corn or popcorn that pollinates at the same time as ornamental corn.

Harvest

Harvest ears when the plants and husks are dry but before a hard frost. The kernels should be hard and bright (popcorn kernels should be 13-14.4% moisture) and the husks should be brown. Peel the husks back and hang ears in a barn or high tunnel to dry. Do not box or bag ears when they are first harvested, or they may mold. Mold may occur on the husk and the ear if proper handling and storage techniques are not used.