46-0-0 Fertilizer For Sweet Corn
Sweet corn is a staple of summertime barbecues and picnics. Whether boiled, grilled, or roasted, nothing beats the taste of freshly harvested, sweet corn. However, growing sweet corn is not as straightforward as it may seem. It requires a lot of care and attention, including the right fertilizer to produce a bountiful harvest.
What is 46-0-0 fertilizer?
46-0-0 fertilizer, also known as urea, is a popular nitrogen-rich fertilizer that is widely used by farmers and gardeners. It is called 46-0-0 because it contains 46% nitrogen, 0% phosphorus, and 0% potassium. Nitrogen is an essential nutrient for plant growth and development, and it plays a crucial role in the production of chlorophyll, which helps plants to produce food through photosynthesis.
46-0-0 fertilizer is readily available at most garden centers, home improvement stores, and online retailers. It is also relatively cheap compared to other fertilizers, making it an ideal choice for gardeners on a budget.
Why use 46-0-0 fertilizer for sweet corn?
Sweet corn is a heavy feeder, meaning it requires a lot of nutrients to grow and produce a good crop. Nitrogen is one of the most critical nutrients for sweet corn, and 46-0-0 fertilizer provides a high concentration of nitrogen that is readily available to the plants. Nitrogen also helps sweet corn to develop robust, healthy stalks and leaves, which are essential for supporting the ears of corn and protecting them from wind damage.
Using 46-0-0 fertilizer also helps sweet corn to mature faster, which is especially important in areas with a short growing season. It also improves the overall yield and quality of the corn, resulting in bigger, sweeter ears that are perfect for eating fresh or freezing for later use.
How to apply 46-0-0 fertilizer to sweet corn?
The best time to apply 46-0-0 fertilizer to sweet corn is when the plants are six to eight inches tall and again when they are 12 to 18 inches tall. You should avoid applying 46-0-0 fertilizer when the plants are immature, as this can damage the delicate roots.
To apply 46-0-0 fertilizer:
- Mix one-quarter cup of 46-0-0 fertilizer with one gallon of water in a watering can or spray bottle.
- Water the soil around the base of each corn plant with the mixture, making sure to soak the soil thoroughly.
- Avoid getting the fertilizer mixture on the leaves or stalks of the corn plants, as this can burn the plants.
- Repeat the process when the corn plants are 12 to 18 inches tall.
It's also essential to water the soil around the corn plants regularly to ensure that the plants have enough moisture to grow and develop properly.
Conclusion
Using 46-0-0 fertilizer is an effective way to ensure that your sweet corn crop grows healthy and produces a bountiful harvest. It provides the necessary nutrients, especially nitrogen, that sweet corn needs to develop strong stalks, healthy leaves, and delicious ears of corn. Remember to apply 46-0-0 fertilizer when the plants are six to eight inches tall and again when they are 12 to 18 inches tall, and avoid getting the fertilizer on the leaves or stalks of the plants. With the right care and attention, you can enjoy fresh, sweet corn straight from your garden all summer long.