AMERICAN SWEET CORN

Hawke's Bay Herald-Tribune, Volume 81, Issue 1, 24 September 1937, Page 14

AMERICAN SWEET CORN

Judging by saies and the increasing demand for seed throughout each plantlng season, it would seem that the popularity of this delicious dish is annuallj' increasing and the home gardener is alive to its value as a vegetablo of no small worth. Sweet corn is indeed a delicious dish. easily grown, and relished by all. We will contend that it is not sufficiently known, but as previously remarked, there is every good reason to believe that the time is not far distant when it will be grown in every liome garden in New Zealand. Any moderately rich garden soil will suit this crop provided the position given it bo sheltered and sunny. The seed may he sown from September to January. It is advisable a week or two before planting to turn the soil over and thoroiighly work in a liberal supply of well rotted horse manure. This may bo further supplemented with the following fertilisers worked in the soil a day or two before sowing the seed : — Superphosphates, |oz to every square yard ; bonedust f oz to every square yard, sulphate of potash loz to every sqaure yard. In addition an after application of nitrate of soda, at the rate of loz to the square yard may be applied when the plants are fairly established and again when the cobs are beginning to set. Sow the seeds in rows from 9in to a foot apart according to variety and the rows 3 feet apart. Hill the plants when they are about 1ft high. Encourage a quick healthy growth by constant cultivation and watering. The cobs should be pulled as Boon as the tassels wither away, and when they are quite soft and tender like green peas. To prepare for the pot remove the husk and tassel, and plunge cobs into boiling water. " Cook from 15 to 20 rainutes. " Serve hot with.melted butter. Among the many varieties offering our experienco favours Golden Bantam as being one of the very best sorts on the market. Whatever /fee your selection see that you include at least one packet of sweet corn in your coliection of spring seeds. ,