Indian ornamental corn, also known as Indian corn or maize, is a type of corn that is grown for its colorful, decorative appearance rather than for its edible kernels. It is a popular choice for fall decorations, and is often used in corn husk crafts and other decorative projects.
The ears of Indian ornamental corn come in a variety of colors, including red, blue, purple, yellow, and multi-colored. The plants can grow up to 6-8 feet tall and have large, colorful ears that are often used in fall decorating.
It is typically planted in the late spring or early summer and takes around 100 days to reach maturity.
To grow Indian ornamental corn, you will need to start by preparing your soil. Indian ornamental corn prefers well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.8. The seeds should be planted in a sunny location, in rows about 2-3 inches deep, about 6-8 inches apart. Water the seeds regularly, keeping the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged.
Once the plants are established, they don’t require much care. Keep an eye out for pests and diseases, such as corn borers, earworms, and fungal leaf spot, which can damage your plants and reduce yields.
Once the ears are fully mature, usually around 100 days, you can harvest them and use them as decorations. The ears can be dried and saved for later use, or used immediately in crafts or other decorative projects.
Indian ornamental corn is also used in some traditional ceremonies, such as those of the Hopi tribe in the southwest of the United States.
