Grow a Popcorn Experiment at Home

Popcorn is grown from a stalk like regular corn. It is not as sweet and is a special type of corn kernel. Growing popcorn at home can make a fun science experiment that the family can enjoy together. When it is finished, everyone can enjoy a taste test of the experiment.

Gather together a handful of popcorn kernels, a paper towel and a plastic baggie. Wet the paper towel, then fold it in half. Place the seeds on the wet paper towel so that they are not touching each other. Fold the towel again. Slide it into the baggie without disturbing the placement of the corn kernels.

Set the baggie on a ledge or countertop on a flat surface in indirect sunlight. Check on the dampness of the paper towel every day and add a few drops of water at a time to keep it from drying out. After a few days, the seeds will begin to germinate and sprout. Once they are established, they are ready for planting.

Plant the kernels in a large pot near a window or add them to the outdoor garden or greenhouse. Put a few seeds together in the soil. There must be a minimum of two seeds near each other in order to allow the plants to pollinate each other. Use a base of peat moss for drainage at the first layer, then add rich potting soil mixed with plant food on top. Add the seeds, then cover with more soil. Water it immediately.

Check on the soil daily. It must be moist to create a strong plant capable of producing ears. Once the ears have formed and developed, let them dry on the cornstalks until the husky are crispy and brown.

Remove them from the stalks and let them dry further indoors. When they are completely dry, remove the husks. Gently twist the corn kernels from the cob. Store them in a container in a dry, cool environment.

When it is time to taste test the experiment, make popcorn in a heavy pan over the stovetop. Choose one with a lid. Pour a few tablespoons of popcorn oil into the bottom of the pan. Add two or three kernels and heat on a medium to medium-high setting. Place the lid on top. After the kernels are heard popping, remove them and add about a ½ cup of kernels to the pan. With one hand on the lid and another moving the pan back and forth over the burner, continue to let the popcorn pop and cook until they are nearly stopped.

Remove the pan from the stove and immediately pour into a big bowl or into popcorn bags. Melt a few tablespoons of butter or margarine in the microwave at 70 or 80 percent power. Be sure to place a napkin or paper towel on top of the cup to prevent spattering. Add salt and melted butter to the popcorn if desired.

Author is a freelance writer. For more information on popcorn oil please visit http://www.snappypopcorn.com.