Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil
Test the soil pH and aim for 6.0 to 6.8
Work compost or well-rotted manure into the soil
Plant corn after the last frost when soil is warm
Sow seeds 1 to 1.5 inches deep
Space seeds 8 to 12 inches apart in rows
Leave 30 to 36 inches between rows
Plant in blocks of at least 4 rows for pollination
Water consistently, especially during germination and tasseling
Keep soil evenly moist
Thin seedlings if needed to maintain proper spacing
Apply mulch to help retain moisture and suppress weeds
Remove weeds regularly
Side-dress with nitrogen fertilizer when plants are knee-high
Hill soil around the base of plants if needed for support
Watch for pests and diseases
Harvest when ears are full and silks are brown and dry
Pick ears by twisting downward and pulling from the stalk