Popcorn Maize Plomyk is a special maize variety that is particularly suitable for making delicious homemade popcorn. This compact popcorn maize produces beautiful, well-filled cobs of approximately 15 cm long, which are densely covered with shiny, dark yellow kernels. Due to its relatively low growth habit, Plomyk is very suitable for smaller vegetable gardens and locations where tall maize varieties are less practical. The plants reach a height of approximately 140–160 cm, making them considerably shorter than many other maize varieties. This makes them less susceptible to being blown over by the wind and easier to maintain and harvest. For good pollination, it is recommended to grow the plants in groups or blocks rather than in a single row.
Culinarily, Popcorn Maize Plomyk is mainly used for making popcorn. The hard, dried kernels contain the correct balance of starch and moisture to burst open when heated and transform into light, tasty popcorn. After harvesting, the cobs should first be allowed to fully mature and dry further. The cobs are ready to harvest when the outer husk is completely yellow and feels dry to the touch. The kernels should feel hard and firm. After harvesting, allow the cobs to dry further in a warm, well-ventilated place. Proper drying is important to achieve optimal popping quality. It is recommended to test a few kernels before using the entire harvest, to check whether the popcorn pops well. Thanks to its attractive dark yellow kernels, compact growth habit, and versatile culinary possibilities, Popcorn Maize Plomyk is a valuable addition to both the vegetable garden and for anyone who enjoys making homemade popcorn. This special maize variety combines easy cultivation with a delicious harvest. Half hardy annual. Height: 140 - 160 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.
