For planting corn, the recommended spacing depends on the planting method and the goal of maximizing growth and pollination:

• In rows: Plant corn seeds about 8 to 12 inches apart within the row, with rows spaced 30 to 36 inches apart. This spacing allows enough room for the plants to grow vigorously and facilitates wind pollination. It is best to plant corn in blocks of at least four rows rather than a single long row to ensure good pollination

• Closer spacing with thinning: Some gardeners plant seeds closer together initially, about 4 to 6 inches apart, then thin the seedlings to about 10 to 12 inches apart once they are a few inches tall. This helps ensure strong plants and adequate pollination

• Small garden or tight spaces: In very small spaces, you can plant corn in blocks with plants spaced 6 to 8 inches apart in two rows, though hand pollination might be needed to improve yield

• Planting depth: Plant seeds about 1 inch deep

In summary, the ideal spacing for corn plants is roughly 8 to 12 inches apart within rows, with rows 30 to 36 inches apart, arranged in blocks rather than long single rows to maximize pollination and yield. Closer spacing can be used initially with thinning later to achieve this spacing