Prior to Planting

• Have your soil tested to determine its level of fertility and the amount of nutrients it contains. The Purdue University Extension recommends applying 3 to 4 lbs. of 12-12-12 granulated fertilizer for every 100 square feet of growing bed to establish a base fertility level without having the soil tested.
  
  

After Germination

• Side-dress with high-nitrogen fertilizer that includes phosphorus, such as 20-10-0, within 7 days of germination, according to the Virginia Cooperative Extension. This will ensure that adequate nutrients are available to the corn so it begins forming tassels and silks.
  
  

During Growing Season

• Apply a side-dressing of high-nitrogen fertilizer, such as 20-0-0, about 6 weeks after germination. This will ensure the corn has continuous nutrients as its ears begin to develop.
  
  

Late in Season

• Add a final side-dressing of high-nitrogen fertilizer approximately 4 weeks after the previous one to replenish any nitrogen that has been washed away by heavy rains. This will carry the corn through the growing season until harvest time.