Why is proper corn spacing important?

Proper corn spacing guarantees ample light for the lower leaves to contribute to photosynthesis effectively, provides space for them to develop, and is not so close as to encourage the spread of disease through the tenuous humidity surrounding the plants, nor so wide that the roots cannot feed from the adjacent land without much competition among themselves for available supplies of food and moisture.

Plant in blocks not single rows, in other words, arrange plants in blocks with equal spacing apart, minimum block size of four plants across (this pattern creates wind tunnels for wind-carried pollen to travel down); single rows generally have more than 50% of the plants unpollinated.

Spacing for hybrid characteristics. Varieties like supersweets require additional room so that larger root systems can develop. Triple-sweet types, on the other hand, occupy less space since they tend to grow compactly. Consider the height of the plants and the extent of their leaf spread when planning to plant them. Always check the seed packets for directions.

To prevent the "crowding" among seedlings turning them weak, thin them early, which can be done when they are in a position to put on 15cm (6in) growth. Use scissors to remove the weaker ones, cutting through the stem just above the ground while keeping the roots of the "keepers" intact. This "thinning" provides those "left" with room, air, and light to obtain healthful progress.

Measure spacing carefully. Use planting jigs made from lumber frames. Attach string lines for straight rows during field planting. Mark container surfaces. If done correctly, planting and spacing are essential to avoid errors. Spacing errors can amount to a costly mistake by the time you reach the harvest.

Read the full article: How to Grow Corn Successfully at Home