Especially at the beginning of its growth, corn has very high demands in terms of nutrient and water supply. A supply of sufficient nitrogen is particularly important, especially during the growth phase.
How should corn be fertilized?
Corn needs sufficient nitrogen, especially during the growth phase. Nettle manure or guano is suitable for natural fertilization. In the case of non-organic fertilization, it is recommended to apply phosphorus, potash and lime in autumn as well as nitrogen during the growth phase (maximum three times).
The optimal soil preparation
The soil should be prepared for planting with corn the previous year. To do this, it makes sense to spread rich compost in autumn. Horse manure is also very suitable for natural fertilization. The compost or manure is buried and, at best, you can sow mustard seeds or phacelia on it, which will ultimately also be buried in the spring. Green manure contains a lot of nitrogen and other growth-promoting elements and is therefore ideal for soil preparation. Before sowing the seeds or the early plants, the soil is dug deeply, loosened well and cleared of weeds. From the beginning to mid-May, corn plants or seeds can be brought into the outdoor bed.
Fertilize abundantly during the growth phase
Especially during the growth phase, you should regularly clear the bed of weeds and fertilize it with nitrogen. It is advisable not to give more than three, or at most four, doses over a period of about two months. Too much nitrogen ultimately results in reduced growth. If you want to fertilize naturally, it's best to use nettle manure. This easy-to-make liquid doesn't smell pleasant, but it fertilizes excellently.
How to make your own nettle manure
Fill a plastic bucket or stone tub (do not use a metal container!) with freshly picked and crushed nettles. Water the plants with water until they are finally covered. Place a cloth over the opening. Now stir the mixture daily. After two to three weeks, fermentation occurs - you will notice it by the smell - and the manure is ready. But be careful: Please only water plants with diluted manure (approx. 1 part manure to 10 parts water), otherwise the concentration is too strong.
Non-organic fertilization
If, on the other hand, you rely on non-organic fertilization, follow this scheme for optimal success:
- Application of phosphorus and potash in autumn
- Applying lime before planting / sowing
- Fertilization with nitrogen before/during the growth phase (no more than three times)
If the plant is about man-high, no further fertilization is usually necessary.
Tips & Tricks
Instead of nettle manure, you can also fertilize your corn with guano. Maybe you keep chickens and/or pigeons yourself or know someone - their nitrogen-rich droppings are ideal as fertilizer for corn and many other plants. Please always use highly diluted!
