Zea

Description

Zea, commonly known as the corn plant, is a member of the Poaceae family and is widely grown for its edible starchy seeds. Corn is a staple food in many parts of the world and is used for various purposes such as animal feed, biofuel, and industrial products. The plant is an annual crop that can grow up to 2 meters in height and produces large ears of corn. Zea is native to the Americas and is now cultivated in many countries around the world.

Taxonomic Information

Domain	Eukarya
Kingdom	Plantae
Phylum	Spermatophyta
Class	Monocotyledonae
Order	Poales
Family	Poaceae
Genus	Zea

Appearance

Zea has long, thin leaves that grow in a spiral around the stem. The leaves can be green or variegated with white, yellow, or cream-colored stripes. The plant produces large ears of corn that are covered in husks. The ears can be yellow, white, red, or black depending on the variety. The kernels can also vary in size and shape.

Care Guide

Zea requires regular watering and fertilization to grow properly. The plant prefers well-drained soil and full sun exposure. It can grow in a wide range of hardiness zones but is most commonly grown in zones 4-9. When planting, space the seeds 8-12 inches apart and 1-2 inches deep. Corn should be fertilized with a balanced fertilizer every 3-4 weeks during the growing season. Watering should be done at least once a week, and more frequently during periods of drought.

Common Pests & Diseases

Zea is susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases including corn borers, armyworms, and corn smut. Corn borers and armyworms can be controlled with insecticides, while corn smut can be prevented by using disease-resistant varieties. Other pests and diseases that can affect Zea include aphids, cutworms, and rust.

Habitat

Zea is native to the Americas and is now widely cultivated in many countries around the world. It is commonly grown in warm, temperate climates where there is sufficient rainfall and sunlight. Corn is grown in many different types of soil but prefers well-drained, fertile soil.

Question and Answer

Q: How long does it take for Zea to grow?
A: Zea typically takes 60-100 days to reach maturity depending on the variety and growing conditions.

Q: Can Zea be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Zea can be grown in containers but requires a large pot and frequent watering.

Q: What is the best time to plant Zea?
A: Zea should be planted in the spring when the soil has warmed up and there is no longer a risk of frost.

Q: How can I tell when my Zea is ready to harvest?
A: The ears of corn should be fully formed and the husks should be dry and brown. The kernels should be firm and milky when squeezed.

Related Plants

• Sorghum bicolor
• Oryza sativa
• Triticum aestivum

References

• “Corn.” Encyclopædia Britannica. Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc., n.d. Web. 22 Jan. 2021.
• “Corn.” University of Illinois Extension, n.d. Web. 22 Jan. 2021.
• “Growing Sweet Corn in the Home Garden.” University of Minnesota Extension, n.d. Web. 22 Jan. 2021.