Agro-techniques for baby corn production

Abstract

Baby corn (Zea mays L.) is a high-value crop, gaining popularity fast, and relatively recently introduced in India. Baby corn may be raised year-round, has short duration, and is fast growing and thus opens avenues for crop diversification. Baby corn is a suitable crop for cultivation under diverse agroclimatic conditions. The agro-techniques for baby corn are different from maize, viz., varieties, seed rate, plant density, detasseling, fertilizer management, and harvesting schedule. Higher plant densities with optimum geometry are essential to harness the yield potential. Intercropping with short-duration legumes and vegetables during winters gave profitable response. Removal of tassel with its emergence considerably enhances the yield of baby corn. Combined approach (soil application followed by foliar) in nitrogen management improves yield and quality of winter baby corn. Adoption of staggered planting will be helpful for continued supply for a longer period and in reducing the labor requirement during peak period. Standardization of the improved agro-techniques for diverse farming situations is required for wider popularization of the baby corn cultivation in India.