Don't That Take the Tassel Off'n the Corn?

As summer fades, us gardeners have to look for other forms of amusement and wonder in nature. Yes there are still the asters and mums, but most of the blooms are finished. Leaves and gourds bring us color among only a few other things.

I found a new and delicate form of Garden Art in the secret rows of corn fields. For years, crafty types have made Dolls out of the dried corn husks. Or Granny Heads out of dried apples. But lately I have seen creative images of small princess locks of braided silky tassels - while still on the cob. 

From a horticultural perspective, this silk is the female part of the corn. Think of them as long tubules where the male pollen will land and form the kernels of the corn. While they are developing, the larger husk wraps & protects them. Namely, it keeps most birds and animals from eating the cobs. When we harvest, the first thing we do is rip off both the husks and then the inner silk tassels.

These sweet and fragile images show simple braiding of the tassels while still in the field. The colors vary from golden blonde to slightly warmer ambers. And are often laced Baby's Breath or other tiny wildflowers found nearby. They are mini, magical wonders each. I suggest that any of you taking an outing into any of the many corn mazes for Fall fun, take a handful of small wildflowers or other jewels along with a spool of thread. Find a single ear still on the stalk. And spend a few minutes in nature to create a surprise for someone else who will be a few steps behind you. I know that I am going to try to create at least one.