Overview
Louisiana’sfertile soiland favorable climate make it an ideal region for corn production . Whether you ’re aseasoned farmeror a tiro nurseryman , mastering the nontextual matter of Zea mays planting can give openhanded harvest home . This comprehensive scout will fit you with theessential knowledgeand step - by - step direction to ensure a successful Indian corn - produce time of year in Louisiana .
Site Selection and Soil Preparation
The foundation for athriving corn crop liesin pick out the right site and machinate the soil . take a well - drained areawith accession to sizeable sunshine for at least six hours daily . corn whisky favour soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.8 . Amend the soil with organic matter , such as compost or manure , toimprove fertilityand drain .
Seed Selection and Planting
Louisiana has a long growing time of year , allowing formultiple corn whisky planting dates . For other planting , aim for mid - March to early April . For a later harvest , plant in mid - June to former July . Choose disease - resistant hybrid corn varieties suited to Louisiana ’s climate andpest pressures . plant life seeds 1 to 1.5 inches bass , spacing them 6 to 8 inches apart in rows 30 to 36 inches wide .
Water and Fertilization
Corn need consistent wet throughout itsgrowing season . weewee deeply and on a regular basis , especially during hot and dry weather . Apply fertiliser concord to soil test recommendation . A balanced plant food with nitrogen , phosphorus , and atomic number 19 is typically recommended .
Weed Control
grass compete with corn for water , nutrients , and sunlight . Implement a comprehensive skunk dominance program that includes pre - emergent herbicide , post - emergent herbicides , and mechanical cultivation .
Pest and Disease Management
Louisiana ’s humid mood canfavor corn pestsand disease . Monitor yourcrop regularlyand take proactive measure tocontrol infestation . vulgar pests let in corn earworms , aphid , and army worm . Diseases such as gray-haired leaf spot , northerly corn foliage blight , and southerly corn whisky rust fungus can also affect corn in Louisiana .
Pollination and Silking
Zea mays is a breaking wind - pollinate craw . Once thetassel emerges , it releases pollen that fertilise the silks on the ears . Silking typically go on 10 to 12 day aftertassel egression . Proper pollenation is essential for ear development and grain yield .
Harvest and Storage
Corn is quick to harvest when the kernels are mature and have hardened . Theouter husksshould be dry and papery . Harvest Indian corn by hand or with a combine . Allow the ears to dry in a well - vent area before storing them in a cool , wry location .
Tips for Louisiana Corn Growers
Information You Need to Know
Q : What is the best time toplant cornin Louisiana?A : Mid - March to former April forearly planting ; mid - June toearly Julyfor a later harvest . Q : How deep should I found corn seeds?A : 1 to 1.5 inches cryptical . Q : How far aside should I space Zea mays plants?A : 6 to 8 inch aside in rows 30 to 36 in wide . Q : How often should I water corn?A : profoundly and regularly , especially during hot and wry weather . Q : What is the good way of life tocontrol weedsin corn?A : A combining of pre - emergent weedkiller , post - emergent herbicides , and mechanical cultivation .
