Popcorn Maize Glass Gem is a unique and colourful maize variety that is a real eye-catcher in the vegetable garden. This special popcorn maize usually produces around two cobs per plant, with each cob displaying a surprising mix of colours. The kernels are beautifully arranged on the cob and range from white, yellow, orange, and red to blue, green, and brown. This makes Glass Gem not only a productive maize variety but also a decorative addition to the garden.
The plants grow vigorously and reach a height of approximately 200 - 220 cm. Due to their impressive size and elegant, colourful cobs, they are also very suitable as an attractive background plant in vegetable gardens, flower borders, or ornamental gardens. For good pollination, it is important to plant the maize in groups or blocks rather than in single rows.
Culinarily, Glass Gem is mainly used as popcorn maize for making delicious homemade popcorn. After harvesting, the cobs should be allowed to mature fully and dry further. The cobs are ready to harvest when the outer husks are completely yellow and feel dry to the touch. The kernels should feel hard and firm. Afterwards, allow the cobs to dry further in a warm, well-ventilated place so that the kernels reach the correct moisture level for optimal popping.
In addition to making popcorn, the colourful kernels can also be ground into maize flour. This can be used to prepare various dishes such as cornbread, tortillas, polenta, and other recipes based on maize flour. The special colours of the dried kernels remain visible, making Glass Gem highly valued as a decorative maize variety for autumn decorations and flower arrangements. In short, Popcorn Maize 'Glass Gem' is a unique combination of ornamental value and culinary possibilities. With its tall growth, colourful cobs, and versatile uses, this exceptional maize variety is a valuable addition to both the vegetable garden and ornamental garden. Half-hardy annual. Height: 200 - 220 cm.
Indoor sowing: from the beginning of March
Outdoor sowing: May - June
Sowing depth: 2½ cm
Germination: 10 - 14 days
Germination temp. : 10 - 20 °C
Transplanting outdoors: may
Plant distance: 45 cm
Plant position: full sun with some shelter
Harvest period: August - October
For an early harvest, popcorn maize can be started indoors from mid-March onwards. Sow one seed per pot at a depth of approximately 2½ cm in loose, nutrient-rich potting compost. During germination, maintain a temperature of at least 10°C; additional warmth will ensure faster and more reliable germination. Keep the compost evenly moist, but avoid waterlogging. Germination usually takes 10 - 14 days. After the first leaves appear, place the young plants in a bright location so they can continue to grow strongly. Before planting the seedlings outdoors, they must first be hardened off. Gradually acclimatise the young plants to outdoor temperatures over approximately one week by placing them outside during the day and bringing them indoors again at night. After the last night frosts, the plants can be planted out in the open ground in May.
From May to June, once there is no longer any risk of night frost and the soil has warmed sufficiently, maize can also be sown directly outdoors. Sow the seeds approximately 2½ cm deep. It is best to plant maize in blocks rather than in a single row. This improves pollination, as maize is mainly pollinated by wind. Maintain a planting distance of 45 - 55 cm and provide enough space between the plants. Choose a warm, sunny and sheltered location with fertile soil. Protect the tall plants from strong winds if necessary. The cobs can be harvested from August to October. Wait until the outer husk of the cob is completely yellow and feels dry before harvesting. The kernels should feel hard and firm.
After harvesting, the cobs need to be dried further. Hang them for several weeks in a warm, well-ventilated place until the kernels have reached a moisture content of approximately 14%. This moisture level is important, as the kernels will otherwise not pop properly. Test a few kernels before using the entire harvest. If the popcorn does not pop well, the kernels can be lightly moistened if necessary. Place the kernels together with a small amount of water in a sealed container, shake well, and allow them to rest for some time before testing again.
Do not plant sweetcorn near popcorn maize. Cross-pollination can negatively affect the quality of sweetcorn, causing the kernels to become less sweet and less flavoursome.
