Sweet Corn Exposed! How To Become A Successful Sweet Corn Farmer - Agriculture - Nairaland
Nairaland Forum / Nairaland / General / Agriculture / Sweet Corn Exposed! How To Become A Successful Sweet Corn Farmer (579 Views)
Help! Cucumbers And Sweet Corn Available - From Epe Lagos / Hot Sales Of Sweet Corn In Ikorodu ,lagos / My Egg Poultry Farming Experience As A New Farmer (2) (3) (4)
| Sweet Corn Exposed! How To Become A Successful Sweet Corn Farmer by organicfoods(m): 1:49pm On May 06, 2023 |
Sweet Corn: The history of breeding sweet corn dates back several centuries, with continuous efforts by plant breeders to develop sweeter and more tender corn varieties suitable for human consumption. Here's an overview of the history of sweet corn breeding: Early Cultivation: Corn, also known as maize, was domesticated by indigenous peoples in Mexico thousands of years ago. Early corn varieties were primarily used for their starchy kernels and were not as sweet or tender as modern sweet corn. Discovery of Sweet Corn Mutations The natural occurrence of sweet corn mutations was first recorded in the 18th century, when farmers in the United States and Europe discovered individual corn plants with sweeter kernels. These naturally occurring mutations were the basis for early sweet corn varieties. Selective Breeding: In the 19th and early 20th centuries, farmers and plant breeders began selectively breeding corn plants with sweeter kernels to develop sweet corn varieties. This involved carefully selecting and crossing individual corn plants with desirable traits, such as sweetness, tenderness, and attractive appearance. Development of Su, Se, and Sh2 Types: In the mid-20th century, plant breeders developed three main types of sweet corn based on their genetic characteristics: standard (su), sugary enhanced (se), and supersweet (sh2). Standard sweet corn has a single gene mutation that imparts sweetness but is less tender and has a shorter shelf life. Sugary enhanced sweet corn has a combination of genes that results in increased sweetness, tenderness, and longer shelf life. Supersweet sweet corn, also known as shrunken-2 (sh2) corn, has higher sugar content, crisp texture, and longer shelf life. Hybridization and Genetic Advances: Hybrid sweet corn varieties, which are created by crossbreeding different parent lines to produce offspring with desirable traits, became more widely adopted in the mid-20th century. This allowed for greater control over the genetic characteristics of sweet corn, leading to improved sweetness, tenderness, yield, disease resistance, and other desirable traits. Modern Breeding Techniques: In recent decades, modern breeding techniques, such as genetic engineering and marker-assisted selection, have been used to further improve sweet corn varieties. Genetic engineering has allowed for the introduction of specific genes into sweet corn plants to enhance their sweetness, tenderness, and other traits. Marker-assisted selection has facilitated the identification and selection of desired traits more efficiently, speeding up the breeding process. Today, sweet corn breeding continues to be an active area of research and development, with plant breeders constantly working to develop new sweet corn varieties with improved traits, such as increased sweetness, tenderness, disease resistance, and environmental sustainability, to meet the demands of consumers and growers alike. You can read more on my blog https://earthfarmer..com/2023/04/sweet-corn-exposed-how-to-become.html 1 Like
|
| Re: Sweet Corn Exposed! How To Become A Successful Sweet Corn Farmer by organicfoods(m): 1:56pm On May 06, 2023 |
Sweet corn vs field corn. Average yields per acre and other comparable differences Sweet corn and field corn are two different types of corn that are grown for different purposes and have some differences in their characteristics, including average yields per acre. Here are some key differences between sweet corn and field corn: Purpose: Sweet corn is primarily grown for human consumption as a vegetable, while field corn, also known as dent corn, is typically grown as a cash crop for animal feed, ethanol production, and other industrial uses. Taste and Texture: Sweet corn is harvested at an earlier stage when the kernels are still tender and sweet, making it suitable for eating as a fresh vegetable. Field corn, on the other hand, is harvested at a later stage when the kernels have hardened and the starch content has increased, resulting in a tougher texture and less sweetness. Yields: [/b]Field corn generally has higher average yields per acre compared to sweet corn. The exact yields can vary depending on various factors such as climate, soil conditions, and farming practices, but field corn typically yields more corn per acre due to its longer growing season and higher plant populations per acre. [b]Plant Characteristics: Sweet corn plants are usually shorter in height compared to field corn plants, with narrower leaves and smaller ears. Field corn plants, on the other hand, are taller and more robust, with broader leaves and larger ears. Harvesting Methods: Sweet corn is often hand-picked, while field corn is usually harvested using mechanical equipment, such as combines, due to the larger scale of field corn production. Genetic Varieties: Sweet corn comes in various genetic varieties, including standard (su), sugary enhanced (se), and supersweet (sh2) types, each with different sweetness levels and characteristics. Field corn also comes in different genetic varieties, but they are generally selected for traits such as yield, disease resistance, and starch content rather than sweetness. Growing Season: Sweet corn has a shorter growing season compared to field corn. It is typically planted in the spring and harvested in the summer, while field corn is planted in the spring and harvested in the fall, allowing for a longer growing period. It's also worth mentioning that sweet corn is typically sold at higher prices compared to field corn due to its quality and freshness, which can offset the lower yields per acre. Field corn, being primarily used for animal feed and industrial purposes, is usually sold at lower prices. Growing sweet corn for profit can be a lucrative venture if done properly. Here are some steps to consider when growing sweet corn for profit: Market research: Conduct thorough market research to identify demand for sweet corn in your target area. Understand the local market trends, pricing, and potential customers such as grocery stores, farmers markets, restaurants, and wholesalers. Identify potential customers and establish contacts to ensure a market for your sweet corn produce. One easiest way to market sweet corn is partner with caterers in your area. Sweet corn are increasingly making it to their menu this days. Select suitable varieties: Choose sweet corn varieties that are well-suited for your local growing conditions, such as climate, soil type, and disease resistance. Consider factors such as maturity period, yield potential, and market preference for yellow, white, or bi-color kernels. There are numerous sweet corn varieties available, each with its own unique characteristics in terms of color, flavor, maturity period, and yield potential. Here are some common types of sweet corn varieties: Standard (su) varieties: These are traditional sweet corn varieties with the "sugary" gene, denoted as "su." They have a good balance of sweetness, tenderness, and flavor. Standard varieties are typically harvested and consumed when the kernels are in the milk stage, just as they begin to mature. Examples include "Golden Bantam" heirloom variety, "Country Gentleman" heirloom variety, and "Honey and Cream" F1. Sugary Enhanced (se) varieties: These sweet corn varieties have the "sugary enhanced" gene, denoted as "se." They are known for their increased sweetness, tenderness, and holding ability compared to standard varieties. Sugary Enhanced varieties are harvested and consumed when the kernels are in the milk stage or slightly more mature. "Sugar Enhanced" or "Se" Varieties: These sweet corn varieties have a high sugar content and tend to have a more tender texture compared to traditional sweet corn varieties. Examples include "Bodacious" F1, "Kandy Korn" F1, "Obsession" F1, and "Incredible" F1. Supersweet (sh2) varieties: These sweet corn varieties have the "supersweet" gene, denoted as "sh2." They are known for their exceptionally high sugar content, crisp texture, and long shelf life. Supersweet varieties are harvested and consumed when the kernels are fully mature, as they tend to lose their sweetness quickly after harvest. "Supersweet" or "Sh2" Varieties: These sweet corn varieties are known for their exceptionally high sugar content and longer shelf life compared to traditional sweet corn varieties. Examples include "Prelude" F1, "Mirai" series, "How Sweet" F1, and "Sweetness" F1. 1 Like
|
| Re: Sweet Corn Exposed! How To Become A Successful Sweet Corn Farmer by organicfoods(m): 2:13pm On May 06, 2023 |
Sweet corn is a type of maize that is grown primarily for its sweet kernels, which are eaten as a vegetable. It is a popular crop in many parts of the world due to its versatility, ease of cultivation, and nutritional value. In this article, we will discuss the benefits of growing sweet corn, including its economic, nutritional, and environmental advantages. Economic benefits of growing sweet corn: High demand: Sweet corn has a high demand in both local and international markets. This makes it a profitable crop for farmers who can produce high-quality sweet corn. Good returns: Sweet corn is a high-value crop that can provide good returns on investment. The market price for sweet corn is usually higher than that of regular maize due to its higher quality. Multiple uses: Sweet corn can be used for different purposes, including as a fresh vegetable, for processing into canned or frozen products, and as an ingredient in animal feed. Short production cycle: Sweet corn has a relatively short production cycle compared to other crops, with some varieties ready for harvest in as little as 60 days. This means that farmers can harvest and sell their produce quickly, reducing the risks associated with longer production cycles. Employment opportunities: Sweet corn production can provide employment opportunities for local communities, including farm laborers, transportation workers, and packaging and processing workers. Nutritional benefits of sweet corn: Rich in nutrients: Sweet corn is a rich source of several important nutrients, including vitamins B and C, magnesium, and fiber. These nutrients are essential for maintaining good health and preventing diseases. Low in fat: Sweet corn is low in fat, making it a healthy alternative to high-fat foods. This makes it an ideal food for people who are trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight. Good source of antioxidants: Sweet corn contains antioxidants such as lutein and zeaxanthin, which are important for eye health. These antioxidants help protect the eyes from damage caused by ultraviolet light and other environmental factors. Good source of energy: Sweet corn is a good source of carbohydrates, which provide the body with energy. This makes it a great food for people who engage in physical activities such as sports or manual labor. Environmental benefits of growing sweet corn: Low water requirements: Sweet corn requires relatively less water than other crops such as rice and sugarcane. This makes it a suitable crop for areas with low rainfall or limited water resources. Soil improvement: Sweet corn has a fibrous root system that helps to improve soil structure and prevent erosion. This makes it a useful crop for restoring degraded soils and preventing soil degradation. Low pesticide use: Sweet corn is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, which means that farmers can use fewer pesticides than they would for other crops. This reduces the environmental impact of agriculture and minimizes the risks associated with pesticide use. Carbon sequestration: Sweet corn can help to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by sequestering carbon in the soil. This is because the crop has a high biomass production, which means that it can absorb more carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. Growing sweet corn has several benefits, including economic, nutritional, and environmental advantages. It is a versatile and high-value crop that can provide good returns on investment, while also providing essential nutrients to the human body. Sweet corn has a short production cycle, making it an ideal crop for smallholder farmers, and it can also provide employment opportunities for local communities. Furthermore, it has a low environmental impact and can help to improve soil quality and sequester carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. 1 Like
|
| Re: Sweet Corn Exposed! How To Become A Successful Sweet Corn Farmer by organicfoods(m): 2:24pm On May 06, 2023 |
Organic fertilizers Organic fertilizers are essential for the growth and development of crops, including sweet corn. They provide essential nutrients to the soil, improve soil fertility and structure, and promote healthy growth and development of plants. In Nigeria, there are various organic materials that can be used to make organic fertilizers for sweet corn farming. Here are three organic fertilizers that can be produced for a sweet corn farm using locally available ingredients: Compost fertilizer: Compost fertilizer is one of the most popular organic fertilizers used in sweet corn farming. It is made from decomposed organic materials such as animal manure, crop residues, and kitchen waste. To produce compost fertilizer, the following materials can be used: Animal manure: Cow, goat, or poultry manure can be used. These are readily available in Nigeria and can be collected from farms or livestock markets. Crop residues: Crop residues such as maize stalks, rice straw, and cassava peels can be collected from farms. Kitchen waste: Kitchen waste such as vegetable and fruit peels, eggshells, and tea leaves can be collected from households. To make compost fertilizer, mix the animal manure and crop residues in a heap or compost bin. Add the kitchen waste, and water the heap to keep it moist. Turn the heap every few weeks to ensure that it decomposes evenly. After a few months, the compost will be ready for use as fertilizer. Fish Emulsion Fertilizer: Fish emulsion fertilizer is a liquid fertilizer made from fish waste. It is rich in nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, which are essential for the growth and development of sweet corn plants. To produce fish emulsion fertilizer, the following materials can be used: Fish waste: Fish heads, guts, and bones can be used. These are readily available in Nigeria, especially in coastal areas. Water: Clean water is needed to make the fertilizer. To make fish emulsion fertilizer, chop the fish waste into small pieces and put them in a container. Add water to cover the fish waste and let it sit for several days. Stir the mixture occasionally. After a few days, the mixture will start to smell bad. This is an indication that the fermentation process is complete. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a fine sieve. Dilute the liquid with water and use it as fertilizer. Bone Meal Fertilizer: Bone meal fertilizer is a dry fertilizer made from crushed animal bones. It is rich in phosphorus, which is essential for root development and seedling growth. To produce bone meal fertilizer, the following materials can be used: Animal bones: Cow, goat, or poultry bones can be used. These are readily available in Nigeria and can be collected from abattoirs or meat processing plants. Mortar and pestle or a mechanical grinder: This is needed to grind the bones into a fine powder. To make bone meal fertilizer, clean the bones and remove any remaining flesh. Crush the bones into small pieces using a mortar and pestle or a mechanical grinder. Grind the crushed bones into a fine powder. The powder can be used as a dry fertilizer for sweet corn plants. 1 Like
|
| Re: Sweet Corn Exposed! How To Become A Successful Sweet Corn Farmer by Tohsynetita1: 3:40pm On May 06, 2023 |
how do you manage weeding organically |
| Re: Sweet Corn Exposed! How To Become A Successful Sweet Corn Farmer by organicfoods(m): 12:58am On May 07, 2023 |
Tohsynetita1:Mulching |
| Re: Sweet Corn Exposed! How To Become A Successful Sweet Corn Farmer by Maryam1234(f): 5:28am On May 07, 2023 |
Nice write up thanks op. Please is sweet corn different from the normal corn we're planting currently?if the answer is in the affirmative.I would love to experiment. Where do you think I can get sweet corn seedlings? I still have some portions of my land I haven't cultivated. Treat as urgent please  |
| Re: Sweet Corn Exposed! How To Become A Successful Sweet Corn Farmer by organicfoods(m): 10:58am On May 07, 2023 |
Maryam1234:They are really different because of their sweetness, they are harvested early when they are tender to retain the juice responsible for the sweetness. They are used in salads, molstly canned. These days we have seen some owambe party adding sweet corn as side meal in their jollof. We have the West Side sweet corn for sale. You can chat me up on 08034342637. 1 Like |
| Re: Sweet Corn Exposed! How To Become A Successful Sweet Corn Farmer by Konquest: 7:37pm On Jan 19 |
organicfoods:Bump. |
| Re: Sweet Corn Exposed! How To Become A Successful Sweet Corn Farmer by Konquest: 7:41pm On Jan 19 |
organicfoods: |
(1) (Reply)
Factors That Influence Yield Of Corn Flour Milling Machine / Anambra Plans Town-hall Meeting On Agriculture / 200 Old Layers For Sale At Ijebu
(Go Up)
| Sections: politics (1) business autos (1) jobs (1) career education (1) romance computers phones travel sports fashion health religion celebs tv-movies music-radio literature webmasters programming techmarket Links: (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7) (8) (9) (10) Nairaland - Copyright © 2005 - 2024 Oluwaseun Osewa. All rights reserved. See How To Advertise. 86 |