Cultural Practices Land preparation for popcorn is similar to that for field corn. The most common method is to use two or three tandem diskings, although some heavy soil types will produce better if plowed. Disking or field cultivating is then used for seedbed preparation. If needed, a spike-tooth harrow or other finishing tool can be used with the last pass over the field to smooth the seedbed. Any soil type suitable for dent corn should produce a good popcorn crop.
Popcorn seed germinates more slowly than dent corn, and the seedlings grow more slowly.
Thus, medium to coarse textured soils which warm slightly faster than fine-textured soils should improve germination, emergence, and seedling establishment. The popcorn root system is less extensive than that of dent corn. Fertility Fertility requirements for popcorn are similar to dent corn. Soil pH should be in the range of 6.0 to 6.8. Use nitrogen rates of 150-200 pounds per acre for production.