As one of the top providers of high-quality popcorn kernels that offer excellent usage and flavor, Shumway Farms is a crucial asset to those who wish to learn more about their purchases. In addition to the assistance that the experts at Shumway Farms have to offer, it never hurts to supplement their knowledge with additional research. For example, “do popcorn kernels germinate?” is a common question that is asked, among others.
“How long does it take for popcorn kernels to germinate?” is another one. Fortunately, this guide is here to explain the germination process in depth. Be sure to read on and learn more……
Can Popcorn Kernels Be Germinated?
Before this guide proceeds any further, yes, popcorn can be grown from commercially purchased kernels. As long as they are not dead, they can be planted for this purpose. If the kernel has been cooked already, it cannot be planted. If the kernels in question have been imported and were treated with radiation to kill germs, they are typically not viable in these instances either.
Retail popcorn can also struggle to grow because it has aged out of usefulness. These manufacturers will also look to heat dry their kernels, as this is a means of eliminating weevil eggs before they have a chance to make their presence felt. Any kernels that have been treated in this manner are going to struggle to achieve germination, regardless of the methods that are used.
For best results when it comes to germination, packed popcorn should not be chosen. Store-bought heirloom popcorn is the top selection for this purpose. Their germination rate is much higher. Bagged popcorn kernels might be able to grow but the rates are going to be low unless they are raw. Even then, the chances of experiencing successful germination are slim to none.
These seeds may germinate but their chances for growth are diminished as compared to heirloom popcorn. Let’s say that everything breaks in the manner that the farmer hoped for, and they are able to produce popcorn kernels with this method. The quality of these kernels is going to pale in comparison to what is being offered by the heirloom popcorn.
What Happens Once Germination Takes Place?
Once the kernels have been successfully germinated, additional steps must be taken. By the time they are being moved into the garden, there should be at least four to five germinated kernels. If there are only one or two plants, the amount of corn that is produced will be little to none. Other varieties of corn can be grown with popcorn kernels, and it is usually okay.
Experts do not recommend this, though. There is a high chance of cross-pollination. If corn is unable to pollinate itself, it will utilize the wind to do so. When pollen arrives of a different variety, the development of the kernels is adversely affected. Anyone who is growing corn for seed production should definitely avoid these types of concerns, as it will cost them dearly.
What About Disease and Pests?
Popcorn can be compromised by the presence of disease and pests, just like any other form of corn. The same mitigation methods that are used to handle these issues can be used to keep popcorn protected over the short term and long haul. Crop rotation is a great way to ensure a bountiful yield, as the rows are moved away from the location where they were grown in the previous year.
Raccoons must also be considered, as these animals will be more than happy to help themselves to the delicious snacks that are being grown. The popcorn growth won’t be stunted by lighter frosts, but harder freezes can be more problematic in nature. Harder freezes tend to cause more internal moisture, which will lead to less popping.
Store-Bought Corns Are The Way To Go
Store-bought corns, which are also known as heirloom corns, are the best choice that a gardener has. These varieties are far more likely to achieve germination than packed popcorn. What many would-be farmers do not realize is that the packed popcorn is often packed with butter and oil. When popcorn is packed with these types of additives, it affects the growth process in a negative manner, which is why most experienced farmers avoid it at all costs.
Any time that the popcorn has been pre-made or boiled before it has made its way to the farmer, this ends any opportunity for germination. Preservatives are also used frequently in these instances, making germination essentially impossible. No farmer should be relying on these corns because the germination that they will achieve is hardly worth it.
The quality of the plants that will be produced is unknown and these packed corns are not going to offer the best yield, either. Store-bought corns are the way to go, as fertile commercial corns are hard to come by in most instances. Seed companies are the better bet. Bulk popcorn kernel retailers are also able to provide the necessary assistance, offering up a product that provides all of the yield that farmers need (as well as the taste that customers crave).
In Summation
Popcorn can easily germinate as long as the farmer in question is making the right decisions about which corn to plant. While sweet corn and packed popcorn can seem like viable options to someone who has never embarked on this task before, they are not going to provide the same results as heirloom corns that are purchased from the store.
The bulk retailers of the world are also able to help out. When prospective clients are looking for a company with integrity that can provide the high-quality popcorn that they need, Shumway Farms is a name that can be trusted. If there are any additional questions about this purchase and the ins and outs of germination, take a moment to ask their experienced professionals. They will make sure that the entire experience is enjoyable, from start to finish.
