Corn (also known as maize), is a cereal grain first domesticated by indigenous peoples in southern Mexico about 10,000 years ago. Ornamental corn, also called Indian corn, work best for decorative purposes rather than for consumption. It is an affordable way to add colorful and festive fall elements to your home. Depending upon the variety, ornamental corn can contain multiple colors or a single hue. Common kernel colors include orange, black, purple, gold, yellow and white. Harvest corn when the husks are entirely yellow or brown and completely dry. Pull apart the tips of the husks and pull them downward. Tie a string around the base of the husks and hang it to dry in an area with good air flow (but not in direct sunlight, since this will cause the colors to fade). Allow the corn to dry for about two weeks. (Give the corn more time to dry if the kernels are still soft.)
