Scientists called genetic engineers are developing new types of corn that can withstand different types of environments so that production capabilities are increased. Most of the corn grown in North Carolina is grown in the Coastal Plains. Corn can be grown in other regions of the state, but the rich soil found in the Coastal Plains is ideal for growing corn. Corn begins its growing season in April to late August and early September. Corn needs the temperatures to be not too hot or too cold, but moderate during pollination period .
Corn also needs plenty of moisture and full sun to grow in the best possible conditions.
Soil that has high organic matter helps to hold or retain water longer so that it is the best type of dirt to grow corn in. Once the corn is planted, it usually takes about 185 days before it is ready to be harvested or taken from the fields. Once taken from the fields corn can be stored on the farm in grain bins or sold to processors who will turn the corn into other products like syrups and cornstarch. When corn is harvested, farmers use a special piece of equipment called a grain combine. Before grain combines, the corn ear was pulled by hand and carried to a corn sheller.