Zea mays
Zea mays
Maize
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Common Names
MaizeCornIndian cornSweetcorn
Context
nativeRegion
Central America, specifically southern Mexico.
usdaZones
Annual in all zones; optimal in USDA 4–10.
companionPlants
Beans, Squash, Melons, Cucumbers
culturalUses
Major global cereal crop; consumed as food (fresh, dried, processed), animal feed, and used in industrial products.
Care
Care Requirements
LightFull sun; requires at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
WateringConsistent moisture is important; water deeply when top inch of soil is dry, especially during flowering and ear development.
SoilPrefers well-draining, loamy soil rich in organic matter; pH 5.8–7.0.
FertilizerHeavy feeder; fertilize with balanced or high-nitrogen fertilizer before planting and during early growth stages.
HumidityAdaptable to various humidity levels, but optimal growth in moderate humidity.
TemperatureOptimal temperature range is 18–27°C (65–80°F); sensitive to frost and cannot tolerate cold temperatures.
Growth & Life Cycle
HabitAnnual, upright grass with tall, unbranched stalks forming ears (cobs).
Mature SizeRoughly 1.5 to 3 meters (5–10 feet) tall depending on variety.
Growth RateFast-growing; reaches maturity in 60–100 days after planting, depending on cultivar.
BloomingFlowers in late spring to summer; wind-pollinated tassels (male) and silks (female ears).
DormancyNo dormancy; completes life cycle in a single growing season.
Propagation
MethodsSeed
DifficultyEasy; seeds are large and germinate readily.
Best SeasonSpring, after last frost.
Maintenance & Notes
PruningNot required; remove side shoots (suckers) only if desired.
RepottingNot applicable; typically direct-sown in ground.
Pests & DiseasesCommon pests include corn earworm, European corn borer, aphids; diseases include rusts, smut, and blights.
ToxicityNon-toxic to humans and animals.
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