Question
Dear Mike,

I'm in the Washington, DC area.  Where would I find the pollen.  Would it come from our own ear or does it have to come from a different plant?

- Marty

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Followup To
Question -
My son brought home a corn plant from a school project and it is growing well.  It is alone, so I am concerned that it will not grow ears (I heard somewhere that they need to be pollinated).  What is necessary to grow ears of corn?
Answer -
Martin, you are correct.  Pollination is required for corn to produce kernels in the ears.  You need a block of at least 16 stalks (4X4) to get full ears to the tip.  Any less, and the pollen does not cover the silk.  Some gardeners have been successful in collecting the pollen into a paper bag, and then distributing it onto the silks.  The results are very spotty and require perfect timing.  But given your situation, it would definitely be worth a try.

Good luck, and have a great evening.

Regards,

Mike

Answer
Martin, the pollen comes from the tassels at the top of the stalk.  These normally form around 60 days after planting, sometimes longer depending on the variety.  Simply shake the tassels over a paper bag and the pollen can be easily collected.

Mike