Sweetcorn pollination

[Aileen35]

Would I need to help the sweetcorn pollinate and if so how? or is it best to leave it to nature and hope for the best. I now have the male tassles at the top and the female cobs starting at the sides.

[scarey55]

I always run my hands up the male tassels, collect the pollen and drop some on to the cobs. Reading it back that sounds kind of kinky! I can assure you it isn't

[Aileen35]

Suppose it is a bit! do you just leave them on the cob feathery things? or is it a bit more technical?

[NOG]

I just plant them and forget them...then come back in the Autmn to collect my corn.

[scarey55]

Suppose it is a bit! do you just leave them on the cob feathery things? or is it a bit more technical?

Nope, just that - sprinkle what you have in your hand over the silks of the cobs.

[shoreham_steve]

I've never had to fondle me cobs or tickle me tassels! As long as they're planted in blocks rather than rows the wind should do the pollinating. My garden gets more than its fair share of strong winds. In fact, I have to stake my sweetcorn plants or they get blown over.

[Flummery]

Blocks help with wind pollination. You can always tap the stems too - like you do with tomatoes.

[rustylady]

I plant mine in blocks, and if it's been a still day then I tap the stems to shake the pollen around a bit

[Aileen35]

I have got to say they are stunning looking plants. They are planted in blocks and its pretty windy down our allotment, so I'll just admire them and leave them to it. Thanks for your comments.

[Two_Sheds]

You can have too much wind ... and the pollen simply blows away. They appreciate a bit of shelter from strong blustery winds.
Shaking the plant to release pollen wouldn't hurt.