Why rotate corn planting locations?

Rotating crops helps combat disease and pest problems, as well as heavy nutrient depletions. Corn is a heavy feeder, extracting large quantities of nitrogen and depleting the soil subsoil reserves, season by season. Continuous planting permits the accumulation of disease and pest organisms in and on the soil. At the same time, rotation interrupts the normal breeding cycle of many of these pests, often making frequent chemical control unnecessary.

As a rotational alternative, implement the three sisters method. Corn provides structure for the bean vines to climb, and squash suppresses weeds. This intercropping mimics our crop rotation pattern within the season, allowing beans to fix nitrogen back into the soil while compacting the nitrogen used by the corn crop, without the need for clearing.

Small space solutions even where rotation seems impossible. Grow corn in containers filled with fresh soil every year. Use compost tea applications replenished with nutrients every month. Solarize the soil between plantings to kill pathogens with the summer heat. You can achieve the benefits of plant rotations without actually moving to a new plot of earth.

Maximize effectiveness by rotating with soil amendments. Test the soil at least once a year after harvest to help you determine the best amendments. Apply compost during the cover crop period to maximize microbial activity and enhance soil health. When applying rock minerals, address any specific deficiencies revealed through testing.

Carefully assess document rotation patterns. Distribute layouts annually, along with crop location observations. Note the variations in harvest between crops in rotated and non-rotated areas. Monitor declines in disease occurrence over repeated seasons. Documented evidence demonstrates the effectiveness of rotation, as well as its role in assisting with plans.

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