Japanese Black Sticky Corn Days To Maturity
If you are a fan of homegrown corn, you'll love Japanese Black Sticky Corn. It's a unique variety of corn that is deeply rooted in Japanese culture and folklore. This corn is famous for its distinct flavor, texture, and color. One of the most important things to know about Japanese Black Sticky Corn is the number of days to maturity. In this article, we'll explore everything you need to know about Japanese Black Sticky Corn days to maturity.
What Is Japanese Black Sticky Corn?
Japanese Black Sticky Corn is a rare heirloom variety of corn that originated in Japan. It's also known as Waxy Corn, Sticky Corn, or Japanese Sweet Corn. It has a dark purple color that turns almost black when cooked, which is where it gets its name. The kernels are small, tender, and packed with flavor, making it a popular choice for many Japanese dishes.
Japanese Black Sticky Corn grows to be around six feet tall and requires a longer growing season than most American corn varieties. It's a warm-season crop, so it's best to plant it in the late spring or early summer. It's also important to note that Japanese Black Sticky Corn is a hybrid, so it can't be saved and replanted from year to year.
Days To Maturity For Japanese Black Sticky Corn
The number of days to maturity for Japanese Black Sticky Corn is one of the most important things to know when growing this crop. It takes approximately 100 to 120 days for Japanese Black Sticky Corn to reach maturity, which is longer than most American corn varieties. This means that you'll need to plan your planting accordingly and be patient while waiting for your corn to mature.
The growing conditions can also affect the days to maturity for Japanese Black Sticky Corn. For example, if you plant your corn in a colder region or during a cooler season, it may take longer to mature. Alternatively, if you plant your corn in a warmer region or during a warmer season, it may mature quicker.
How To Grow Japanese Black Sticky Corn
Like most corn varieties, Japanese Black Sticky Corn requires well-draining soil and plenty of sunlight. It's also important to provide your corn with regular watering to ensure that it grows healthy and strong. Here are the steps to growing Japanese Black Sticky Corn:
Step 1: Prepare The Soil
Japanese Black Sticky Corn prefers fertile, well-draining soil, so it's important to prepare the soil before planting. Mix in plenty of organic matter, such as compost or aged manure, to help improve the soil's fertility. You can also add additional nutrients, such as nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium, to ensure that your corn grows healthy and strong.
Step 2: Plant The Corn
Plant your Japanese Black Sticky Corn seeds in the late spring or early summer when the soil is warm and the danger of frost has passed. Plant the seeds 1-2 inches deep and 4-6 inches apart. Ensure that the soil is well-watered after planting to encourage germination.
Step 3: Water The Corn
Regular watering is essential for growing Japanese Black Sticky Corn. Ensure that the soil stays moist, but not waterlogged, to prevent the roots from rotting. Water your corn at least once a week, or more frequently during hot, dry weather.
Step 4: Control The Weeds
Weeds can compete with your Japanese Black Sticky Corn for nutrients and water, so it's important to control them. Hand weeding is the easiest and most effective way to control weeds. Alternatively, you can use a hoe to remove weeds from the soil's surface.
Step 5: Harvest The Corn
Japanese Black Sticky Corn is ready to harvest when the kernels have turned black and are fully formed. You can check for maturity by gently squeezing a few kernels with your fingers. If they release a milky sap, the corn is ready to harvest. Be sure to harvest your corn promptly to prevent it from becoming overripe and losing its flavor and texture.
The Benefits Of Japanese Black Sticky Corn
There are many benefits to growing and eating Japanese Black Sticky Corn. Here are a few:
- Rich in Nutrients: Japanese Black Sticky Corn is packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
- Unique Flavor: The corn has a nutty, sweet flavor that is unlike any other variety of corn.
- Gluten-Free: Japanese Black Sticky Corn is naturally gluten-free and can be enjoyed by people with gluten sensitivities.
- Cultural Significance: Japanese Black Sticky Corn is deeply rooted in Japanese culture and folklore, making it a unique and fascinating crop to grow and enjoy.
Conclusion
Japanese Black Sticky Corn is a unique and flavorful variety of corn that is deeply rooted in Japanese culture and folklore. It requires a longer growing season than most American corn varieties, taking approximately 100 to 120 days to mature. It's essential to plan your planting accordingly, provide your corn with regular watering and weed control, and harvest it promptly when ready. By growing and enjoying Japanese Black Sticky Corn, you'll discover a fascinating world of culture, taste, and tradition.
