Zea mays CORN MAIZE POPCORN (15 seeds)

Popcorn corn is an annual plant from the Poaceae family. It is native to South America and is very easy to cultivate in temperate climates. It is a relatively early, fast-growing variety that reaches a height of 1.50 meters by the end of summer.

Its leaves are broad, dark green, long, and lanceolate, with a slightly rough texture. They are thick and arranged in opposite rows along the stems, forming dense foliage that protects the plant.

The flowering of popcorn corn is marked by the appearance of male panicles (tassels) at the top of the plant, composed of many small yellow or green flowers that release pollen. The female flowers, located in the leaf axils, bear one or more spikelets that will develop into the future ears.

Its fruit is an oval-shaped caryopsis, enclosed in a hard shell called the pericarp. When ripe, this fruit contains the corn kernel.

Popcorn seeds from Zea mays are hard, round, yellow kernels. When heated, these kernels explode due to their moisture content, creating the light and airy texture characteristic of popcorn.

- Uses:

This is the specific variety of corn capable of producing popcorn. When consumed without added sugar or salt, it remains a food with interesting nutritional properties. It provides a significant amount of fiber that promotes satiety. As a snack or appetizer, it is a healthy option. This type of corn can be eaten plain, salted, or sweetened, but can also be enjoyed spiced or with chocolate and caramel.

Widespread in snack bars, cinemas, and confectionery, it is also used in the manufacture of corn flour (starch). It is very easy to grow in private gardens; its cultivation often sparks the curiosity of children and provides a "treat" for adults during social gatherings. Growing it yourself ensures access to unprocessed popcorn.

- Germination and Sowing of Seeds:

• The ideal time to sow popcorn is starting in May.
• Sow the seeds 1 to 2 cm deep in the soil.
• Water copiously at the time of planting.
• Let them germinate in a warm place, at a temperature close to 25°C.
• Germination generally begins 2 to 3 weeks after sowing.

Once the seedlings are 15 to 20 cm tall, plant them in the garden in full sun. Water well during the first two months.
Harvest in September or October. Be sure to dry them thoroughly before consumption.

- Substrate / Soil Type:

Popcorn grows quickly when planted in rich, deep, and well-drained soil. A loamy or sandy soil, enriched with compost or manure, promotes optimal growth.

- Exposure / Sunlight:

It requires full sun exposure, with at least 6 to 8 hours of sunlight per day to ensure proper growth and an abundant production of ears.

- Temperatures / Hardiness:

This species thrives in temperatures between 18°C and 25°C. It is sensitive to frost and is not very hardy beyond USDA zone 8, requiring warm temperatures to develop and produce corn.

- Watering / Water Needs:

It needs regular watering, especially during the growth phase and the formation of the ears. Keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged is ideal to avoid water stress.

- Reproduction / Propagation:

Propagation is primarily done by seed. It cannot be grown from cuttings.

- Pests / Predators:

This corn can be attacked by insects such as the corn rootworm, the European corn borer, or aphids. Birds and certain rodents can also cause damage to the crop.