Sweet Corn — Growing reference
| Scientific name | Zea mays var. saccharata |
|---|---|
| Seed germination (days) | 7–10 |
| Soil temperature for germination (°C) | 15.6–29.4 |
| First harvest or flowering (days) | 65–90 |
| Measured from | Seed |
| Plant spacing (cm) | 22.9–30.5 |
| Mature height (cm) | 152.4–243.8 |
| Mature spread (cm) | 45.7–61 |
| USDA hardiness zones | 3–11 |
| Light | Full sun |
| Water | High |
| Sowing method | Direct sow |
Growing directions
Direct-sow seeds 1–1.5 inches deep after last frost when soil is above 60°F, planting in blocks of at least 4 rows rather than single rows to ensure adequate wind pollination of the silks — poor pollination produces ears with scattered missing kernels. Provide consistent, deep watering especially during tasseling and silking, as moisture stress during pollination is the leading cause of poor ear development. Harvest when silks have turned brown and dry, ears feel filled to the tip, and a kernel punctured with a fingernail releases a milky juice (clear juice = immature; no juice = overripe). Sweet corn sugars convert to starch rapidly after harvest; cook or refrigerate immediately. Plant well away from popcorn or field corn to prevent cross-pollination, which reduces sweetness.
Source and local conditions
Typical planning ranges from OpenPlantDB (CC0). Cultivar, climate, season and growing method can change these values. Confirm the seed label and local guidance before planting.
Source & verification
OpenPlantDB · CC0