life cycle of maize
                     LIFE CYCLE OF 
CORN
• Scientific name of corn is zea mays
• It is also known as maize. 
• Life cycle – 120 to 150 days. 
• It is a Monoecious plant. 
• It is poaceae family. 
Stage 1:Germination
◦Begins with seed sprouting underground, fueled by 
warmth and moisture. Soon, a tiny shoot and roots 
emerge, seeking nutrients from soil.
Stage 2 : Vegetative stage: 
◦Over several weeks, the plant focuses on growth. Broad 
leaves unfurl, forming long, sturdy stalks. This stage 
requires plenty of sunlight and water.
Stage 3 : Reproduction
◦It takes place after 60-70 days from germination, this has 
two structures – Male and Female gametes
◦Tassel (male gamete) – Located at the top of the stalk, it 
produces pollen.
◦Ear (female gamete) – Situated lower down, it contains 
silk.
Stage 4 :Pollination
◦Wind carries pollen from tassel to silk fertilizing 
the ovules (future kernels) within the ear. It can 
occur for 10-14 days due to plant variations.
◦Number of kernels per ear can vary depending on 
the corn variety and growing conditions.
Stage 5 : Kernel development
◦After successful pollination, the fertilized ovules mature 
into kernels. The ear enlarges, its green husk protects the 
growing seeds.
Stage 6:Maturation
◦Throughout the next few weeks, the kernels harden and 
dry, accumulating starch and nutrients. The leaves and 
husks begin to fade, indicating harvest time.
Stage 7: Harvest & beyond
◦Once matured, the ears are harvested for various uses, like 
human food, animal feed or industrial products.
◦It is an annual cycle, and can achieve multiple harvests 
within a year through different planting techniques like 
Double cropping, Inter cropping, Relay cropping, Strip 
Tillage.
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