Hi
In maize recently babycorn/has gained popularity as valued vegetable in Delhi, U.P, Haryana, Maharashtra, Karnataka, A.P and Meghalaya. Cobs removed within 3 to 5 days after their emergence are called baby corns.
Important cultivation details
Time of sowing
* Northern States February-September, Eastern States January-September and Western States throughout the year. As there is no necessity for pollination and seed setting this crop can be sown in any time round the year under irrigation in A.P. Staggerd springs are preferred to meet the market needs.
Soils
* All soils suitable for grain corn cultivation are suitable for this crop also.
Varieties
* From any variety, cobs can be harvested within 3 to 5 days of their emergency. Varieties that bear more than one cob, with more sugars and nutrients are preferred. Cultivars like Madhuri, Amber popcorn, are better for baby corn also.
* Special varieties for baby corn purpose are VL-42, HAM-129, Golden Baby (Proagro), early composite (Almond) are suitable for entire country.
Plant density
* Results of research indicated a requirement of 70% extra population (44,000/acre) than for normal maize is (26,000/acre) for baby corn. Required population can be obtained by adopting a spacing of either 45 X 20 or 60 X 15 cm.
* Two seeds are sown at each hill and thinned to single plant gives the required population.
Detasseling
* Baby corn is an unfertilized small cob. So to avoid pollination removal of male inflorescence soon after its emergence is a very important and crucial operation.
* The crop should be under close observation for removal of male inflorescence (tassel) as soon as it emerges. It should be removed in such a way that it should not cause any damage to plant.
* The male inflorescence can be fed to cattle, as it is more in nutrient status.
Harvesting of cobs
* Small cobs are to be harvested at 3 to 5 days after their emergence without damaging the plant. In special varieties meant for baby corn like VL-42, HAM-129, Golden baby and early composite first cob will be ready for harvest at about 47 to 50 days after sowing.
* After 8 or 10 days of first harvest, second and third cobs will be ready for harvesting. The cobs are 8 to 10 cm long with golden yellow colour.
Yield
* cobs : 4-8 q/acre
* Quality stover: 15-20 q/acre.
REgards
Ashwini
