Corn is a popular cereal which is considered as a staple food in many parts of the world. No food matches the sweet taste and crunch of a freshly picked corn. It is also quite easy to grow these plants. However, the flavor of the corn depends on the time of harvest. So do you have any idea about when to pick corn? If not, then bear with us as we explore the signs which indicate that the corn is ready for harvest. Let us begin.

Kernel maturity

The development stage of the kernel is an indicator of harvest readiness. As a gardener, you must be knowing that corn kernels go through several stages, such as the milk stage (early stage, full of liquid), dough stage (thicker and pasty), and dent stage (hardening with a dent on top). A corn which is ready for harvest should be fully developed, firm and filled out.

You can check the corn for kernel maturity by peeling the husk and pressing the kernel with your fingers. In case of dent corn, the kernel should be firm and show a clear firm. The sweet corn should have a milky liquid which is thick but not pasty.

Formation of a black layer

The black layer is a dark waxy layer which forms at the base of the kernel where it attaches to a cob. This layer can be considered as a sign of physiological maturity. However, this layer is not same for all the varieties. It is more relevant for dent and sweet corn varieties. It is less relevant for sweet corn because they are harvested earlier.

It is recommended that you peel back the husk, remove a kernel and check its base. A dark, horizontal layer should be visible to you. It is similar in appearance to a thin black line.

This is a definitive sign that the corn is ready for harvest. If you pick them before the formation of the dark layer, then the weight of the corn will be less. On the contrary, waiting for too long will increase the risks of weather related loss.

Moisture content

The moisture content of the kernel determines the timing of the harvest, since it impacts storage, drying cost and ultimate use. Dent corn is usually harvested when they have a moisture content of 25 to 35% while silage varieties are harvested with a moisture content ranging from 60 to 70%

You can use a moisture meter or take the help of experts for finding the moisture content of your corn. You can also look for visible signs dry husks because this will give you rough estimates.

Harvesting at the wring moisture level can lead to spoilage. Local climates affect drying rates, so you can check guidelines for finding the optimal range.

If you pick the corn early, then you may get a lower yield. The quality of the corn will also be bad (such as watery corn). On the other hand if you wait for too long, then you may get dry and starchy kernels which are not ideal for consumption. So harvesting corns at the right time is essential.