Corn
Corn is a vegetable in the Poaceae family. It grows best in full sun with medium moisture, and is listed for USDA zones 2-13. Plants reach harvest about 7–138 days after planting and sit about 6 inches apart.
Varieties
39 from High Mowing, True Leaf Market & Seeds Now · sorted by days to maturity▸Popcorn Shoots7–14 days
▸(su) Early Sunglow Hybrid53–71 days
Vegetable; Annual
62 Days to maturity. Zea mays. Early Sunglow Hybrid Corn Seeds. Non-GMO, annual, hybrid, Sweet Corn. Suitable for growing in garden plots or raised beds. Corn tolerates heat and drought-prone regions. The Early Sunglow Hybrid variety of corn seeds was developed to be earlier than other types of corn, and became well known for its vibrant, golden color. The stalks grow to be just four feet tall, making this a shorter variety than others. The Early Sunglow Hybrid provides six to seven inch ears. This strain of corn may take up to 71 days. Recommended by USU. Excellent flavor for an early variety. Noted for its cold weather performance. ~150 seeds/oz.
View on True Leaf Market ↗▸Golden Bantam, Sweet59–79 days
Quick Overview • Organic • 69 Days to fully mature • Yellow corn Details Venerable yellow sweet corn heirloom. Earlier version of the famous Golden Bantam. 5-6" cobs with 8 rows of large bright yellow kernels. Smaller 5' tall plants can be spaced closer together. Does great in cold soils and can be used to roasting ears!
View on Seeds Now ↗▸Fisher’s Earliest60–80 days
Standard (su); 6” ears
Early and beautiful with old-fashioned flavor. Vigorous, multi-colored 5-6’ stalks with one ear per plant sitting 18” high. Ears grow 10-12 rows of kernels; excellent tip fill and husk cover. All su’s should be picked and eaten quickly as ears lose sweetness rapidly post-harvest. Selected for short seasons by Ken Fisher of Belgrade, MT. GENETIC SWEET CORN TYPES: Standard (su) – Traditional flavor of sweet corn. Conversion of sugar to starch begins quickly after harvest. Should be eaten soon after harvest. Sugary Enhanced (se) – Heterozygous se type. Tender kernels. Retains their sugar content longer after harvest than su varieties. Tablesweet (se+) – Homozygous se type. Tender kernels. Retains their sugar content longer after harvest than su varieties. Synergistic (sy) – Possesses se and sh2 kernels on the same ear. Retains sweetness post-harvest better than se, while still maintaining se tenderness. Supersweet (sh2) – Highest sugar content. Holds sweetness post-harvest longer than other types. Augmented supersweet (augmented sh2) – Possesses se and sh2 in every kernel. Highest sugar content. Retains sweetness post-harvest longer than other types. More tender kernels than regular sh2 varieties
Growing notes: Days to maturity are from direct seeding. Corn is a warm-season, tender annual. It is a heavy feeder that needs high fertility and benefits from side dressing. Plant sweet corn varieties away from flint corn and popcorn to avoid crossed kernels. For improved pollination, plant in blocks with a minimum of four rows rather than long single rows. Side dress when plants are a foot tall. Harvest when ear silks have dried to a dark brown and kernels are filled to the tip and colored. Sweet corn is generally ready 21 days after first silk. For best quality, eat right away or cool to 32°F within one hour of harvest. Store at 32-34°F with 98% relative humidity. GMO POLICY: Through a combination of controlled stock seed production, field isolation and inspection, and policies for harvesting and handling, we focus on prevention of GMO contamination in all our seeds. All corn seed lots are also tested to confirm zero detectable level in 10,000 seeds. No contaminated seed lots will ever be sold.
View on High Mowing ↗▸Fishers Earliest, Sweet60–80 days
Quick Overview • Limited Quantities • 70 Days to fully mature • Yellow Sweet Corn Details Fisher's Earliest Sweet Corn Certified Organic seed. One of the best tasting, Open-Pollinated varieties on the market. Usually produces 1 ear, that averages 6 inches in length, with rows of beautiful yellow kernels on colorful, 5-6 ft. tall stalks.
View on Seeds Now ↗▸Natural Sweet XR F162–84 days
Supersweet (sh2); 7.5” ears
Resistance: HR: Common Rust
An organic supersweet with improved sweetness and tenderness. From the same breeding team that brought us Xtra-Tender 2171 F1, Natural Sweet XR F1 is a continuation of these impressive sweet corn genetics. Slightly taller (5’ plants) and with more ideal ear height for harvesting (20-25”) than 2171 F1, these vigorous plants produce uniform ears with great husk coverage and exceptionally sweet, milky kernels for enhanced eating quality. Developed by Illinois Foundation Seeds, Inc.
Growing notes: Days to maturity are from direct seeding. Corn is a warm-season, tender annual. It is a heavy feeder that needs high fertility and benefits from side dressing. Plant sweet corn varieties away from flint corn and popcorn to avoid crossed kernels. For improved pollination, plant in blocks with a minimum of four rows rather than long single rows. Side dress when plants are a foot tall. Harvest when ear silks have dried to a dark brown and kernels are filled to the tip and colored. Sweet corn is generally ready 21 days after first silk. For best quality, eat right away or cool to 32°F within one hour of harvest. Store at 32-34°F with 98% relative humidity. GMO POLICY: Through a combination of controlled stock seed production, field isolation and inspection, and policies for harvesting and handling, we focus on prevention of GMO contamination in all our seeds. All corn seed lots are also tested to confirm zero detectable level in 10,000 seeds. No contaminated seed lots will ever be sold.
View on High Mowing ↗▸Natural Bright XR F163–85 days
Supersweet (sh2); 8” ears
Resistance: HR: Common Rust
Exceptional white, sweet corn with great husk protection and tender, sweet kernels. This sister hybrid of Natural Sweet XR F1 is the first white-kernelled, organic supersweet variety offered from Illinois Foundation Seeds, Inc. These vigorous, 6’ tall plants have strong resistance to lodging in the field and produce 8” ears with superb eating quality. Holds well in the cooler post harvest.
Growing notes: Days to maturity are from direct seeding. Corn is a warm-season, tender annual. It is a heavy feeder that needs high fertility and benefits from side dressing. Plant sweet corn varieties away from flint corn and popcorn to avoid crossed kernels. For improved pollination, plant in blocks with a minimum of four rows rather than long single rows. Side dress when plants are a foot tall. Harvest when ear silks have dried to a dark brown and kernels are filled to the tip and colored. Sweet corn is generally ready 21 days after first silk. For best quality, eat right away or cool to 32°F within one hour of harvest. Store at 32-34°F with 98% relative humidity. GMO POLICY: Through a combination of controlled stock seed production, field isolation and inspection, and policies for harvesting and handling, we focus on prevention of GMO contamination in all our seeds. All corn seed lots are also tested to confirm zero detectable level in 10,000 seeds. No contaminated seed lots will ever be sold.
View on High Mowing ↗▸Allure F164–86 days
Synergistic (sy); Slender 8” ears
Resistance: HR: Common Rust · IR: Stewart's Wilt
Seductive sweetness and an instant favorite in our trials. Long-lasting confectionary sweetness and excellent seedling vigor. Ears have good tip fill, and biting into the tender kernels results in a juicy pop. Impressively uniform 6-7’ stalks. Synergistics (sy) hold sweetness better post-harvest than se’s. Thanks to our partnership with Seneca Vegetable Research, High Mowing is the exclusive producer of organic seed for this variety. A portion of the sales of this variety is paid to the breeder. Limited availability in 2024
Growing notes: Days to maturity are from direct seeding. Corn is a warm-season, tender annual. It is a heavy feeder that needs high fertility and benefits from side dressing. Plant sweet corn varieties away from flint corn and popcorn to avoid crossed kernels. For improved pollination, plant in blocks with a minimum of four rows rather than long single rows. Side dress when plants are a foot tall. Harvest when ear silks have dried to a dark brown and kernels are filled to the tip and colored. Sweet corn is generally ready 21 days after first silk. For best quality, eat right away or cool to 32°F within one hour of harvest. Store at 32-34°F with 98% relative humidity. GMO POLICY: Through a combination of controlled stock seed production, field isolation and inspection, and policies for harvesting and handling, we focus on prevention of GMO contamination in all our seeds. All corn seed lots are also tested to confirm zero detectable level in 10,000 seeds. No contaminated seed lots will ever be sold.
View on High Mowing ↗▸Enchanted F166–90 days
Augmented supersweet (sh2); 7” ears
Resistance: IR: Common Rust; Northern Corn Leaf Blight; Stewart's Wilt
This augmented hybrid produces mouthwatering, plump kernels and stays sweet longer post-harvest. Buttery white and gold kernels are juicy and flavorful. Ears consistently have 18-20 rows of kernels and excellent tip fill. Great for processing and freezing. Thanks to Seneca Vegetable Research, High Mowing is the exclusive producer of this organic variety. A portion of the sales is paid to the breeder.
Growing notes: Days to maturity are from direct seeding. Corn is a warm-season, tender annual. It is a heavy feeder that needs high fertility and benefits from side dressing. Plant sweet corn varieties away from flint corn and popcorn to avoid crossed kernels. For improved pollination, plant in blocks with a minimum of four rows rather than long single rows. Side dress when plants are a foot tall. Harvest when ear silks have dried to a dark brown and kernels are filled to the tip and colored. Sweet corn is generally ready 21 days after first silk. For best quality, eat right away or cool to 32°F within one hour of harvest. Store at 32-34°F with 98% relative humidity. GMO POLICY: Through a combination of controlled stock seed production, field isolation and inspection, and policies for harvesting and handling, we focus on prevention of GMO contamination in all our seeds. All corn seed lots are also tested to confirm zero detectable level in 10,000 seeds. No contaminated seed lots will ever be sold.
View on High Mowing ↗▸My Fair Lady F166–90 days
Sugary Enhanced (se); 7-8” ears
High-class corn with tender texture and delicious, sweet flavor. Elegant, long, slender ears are 1.25” wide at the center. Single-stalked plants grow to 5’. Developed by Dr. William Tracy at the University of Wisconsin in collaboration with High Mowing. A portion of the sales of this variety is paid to the breeder. Limited availability in 2024
Growing notes: Days to maturity are from direct seeding. Corn is a warm-season, tender annual. It is a heavy feeder that needs high fertility and benefits from side dressing. Plant sweet corn varieties away from flint corn and popcorn to avoid crossed kernels. For improved pollination, plant in blocks with a minimum of four rows rather than long single rows. Side dress when plants are a foot tall. Harvest when ear silks have dried to a dark brown and kernels are filled to the tip and colored. Sweet corn is generally ready 21 days after first silk. For best quality, eat right away or cool to 32°F within one hour of harvest. Store at 32-34°F with 98% relative humidity. GMO POLICY: Through a combination of controlled stock seed production, field isolation and inspection, and policies for harvesting and handling, we focus on prevention of GMO contamination in all our seeds. All corn seed lots are also tested to confirm zero detectable level in 10,000 seeds. No contaminated seed lots will ever be sold.
View on High Mowing ↗▸Mirage F167–91 days
Synergistic (sy); 8-9” ears
Resistance: HR: Common Rust · IR: Northern Corn Leaf Blight; Stewart's Wilt
Attractive ears with wonderfully tender, sweet kernels that melt in your mouth. Ears start 2.5’ from the ground for easy harvest and are well wrapped in dark green husks. Plants are 7’ tall and average 2 ears per plant with 16 rows of kernels each. Thanks to our partnership with Seneca Vegetable Research, High Mowing is the exclusive producer of organic seed for this variety. A portion of the sales of this variety is paid to the breeder.
Growing notes: Days to maturity are from direct seeding. Corn is a warm-season, tender annual. It is a heavy feeder that needs high fertility and benefits from side dressing. Plant sweet corn varieties away from flint corn and popcorn to avoid crossed kernels. For improved pollination, plant in blocks with a minimum of four rows rather than long single rows. Side dress when plants are a foot tall. Harvest when ear silks have dried to a dark brown and kernels are filled to the tip and colored. Sweet corn is generally ready 21 days after first silk. For best quality, eat right away or cool to 32°F within one hour of harvest. Store at 32-34°F with 98% relative humidity. GMO POLICY: Through a combination of controlled stock seed production, field isolation and inspection, and policies for harvesting and handling, we focus on prevention of GMO contamination in all our seeds. All corn seed lots are also tested to confirm zero detectable level in 10,000 seeds. No contaminated seed lots will ever be sold.
View on High Mowing ↗▸Honey Select Hybrid68–92 days
AAS Winner; Vegetable; Annual
Resistance: HR: Stewart's Wilt
80 Days to maturity. Zea mays. Honey Select Hybrid Corn Seeds. Non-GMO, annual, AAS winner, hybrid, Sweet Corn. Suitable for growing in garden plots or raised beds. Corn tolerates heat and drought-prone regions. Resistant to Stewart’s Wilt. AAS Winner for 2001. TripleSweet® variety produces ears which are 75% (se) and 25% (sh2). About 8 inches long. Plant height is about 72 inches. Does not require isolation from other corns. Longer harvest time without loss of eating quality. Sweet corn doesn't get any better than this. Approx. 165 seeds/oz. The Honey Select Hybrid variety of corn seeds grow to be between five and six foot tall stalks, which provide large ears of yellow corn with a sweet flavor, between eight and nine inches. The Honey Select Hybrid is mature in eighty days, and the ears produce eighteen to twenty rows of corn. ~165 seeds/oz.
View on True Leaf Market ↗▸Serendipity Bicolor TripleSweet Hybrid70–94 days
Vegetable; Annual
Resistance: HR: Southern Corn Leaf Blight
82 Days to maturity. Zea mays. Serendipity Hybrid Corn Seeds. Non-GMO, annual, hybrid, Sweet Corn. Suitable for growing in garden plots or raised beds. Corn tolerates heat and drought-prone regions. Resistant to Southern Corn Leaf Blight. This bicolor TripleSweet® corn produces high-quality 8-inch ears with 16 to 18 rows of sugar-enhanced kernels. 25% of kernels are supersweet (sh2), offering extra sweetness, excellent holding ability, unparalleled eating enjoyment, and a long shelf life. The stalks produce large, eight-inch ears with white and yellow kernels. Serendipity Hybrid crop does best with full sun, in growing zones three to eleven. ~150 seeds/oz.
View on True Leaf Market ↗▸Sugar Buns Hybrid70–80 days
Vegetable; Annual
Resistance: HR: Common Rust; Northern Corn Leaf Blight; Stewart's Wilt
70-80 Days to maturity. Zea mays. Sugar Buns Hybrid (treated) Corn Seeds. Non-GMO, annual, hybrid, Sweet Corn. Suitable for growing in garden plots or raised beds. Corn tolerates heat and drought-prone regions. Resistant to Common Rust, Northern Corn Leaf Blight, and Stewart’s Wilt. An early, truly gourmet yellow hybrid developed for home garden, fresh market, and roadside stand use. Our best-selling early corn, this variety combines earliness with excellent, sweet flavor and good keeping qualities. Stalks reach just over 5 feet tall, producing beautiful 7-inch ears with 14 rows of sweet yellow kernels. Approx. 150 seeds/oz. Sugar Buns Hybrid corn seeds grow to be between 5 and 6 feet tall, producing large ears of yellow corn with a sweet flavor, measuring 7 to 8 inches in length. Sugar Buns is mature in seventy to eighty days, and the ears produce fourteen rows of sweet corn. ~150 seeds/oz
View on True Leaf Market ↗▸Trucker's Favorite75–85 days
A hardy heirloom dent corn embraced by truck farmers at the turn of the 20th century as an early, dependable market corn. Stalks grow 8-9 feet with 8-10 inch ears of deep kernels; much hardier than sweet corn, it can be planted weeks earlier and tolerates heat and adverse weather. Best picked at the milk stage for roasting, or dried and ground for flour.
View on Seeds Now ↗▸Country Gentleman76–104 days
Heirloom; Vegetable; Annual
90 Days to maturity. Zea mays. Country Gentlemen Corn Seeds. Non-GMO, annual, open-pollinated, Sweet Corn. Suitable for growing in garden plots or raised beds. Corn tolerates heat and drought-prone regions. Country Gentleman corn was introduced around 1890 by Frank Woodruff & Sons. Peter Henderson Seed Company followed suit the next year. This old heirloom corn was what the old-timers called "shoe peg" corn. Country Gentleman is characterized by its tightly packed, but uneven rows of kernels. The corn ears reach 7-8 inches long and produce a sweet white kernel. Corn plants reach 8' tall and produce many tillers. ~240 seeds/oz.
View on True Leaf Market ↗▸Painted Mountain76–104 days
MULTI-COLOR; Ornamental/Milling; 6-7” ears
Colorful Montana mountain corn for milling flour. Selected by Dave Christenson from a strain of Mandan Indian corn for earliness and cold-hardiness. Multi-color kernels vary from ear to ear. Perfect for flour with soft starchy kernels that are easy to grind.
Growing notes: Days to maturity are from direct seeding. Corn is a warm-season, tender annual. It is a heavy feeder that needs high fertility and benefits from side dressing. Plant sweet corn varieties away from flint corn and popcorn to avoid crossed kernels. For improved pollination, plant in blocks with a minimum of four rows rather than long single rows. Side dress when plants are a foot tall. Harvest when ear silks have dried to a dark brown and kernels are filled to the tip and colored. Sweet corn is generally ready 21 days after first silk. For best quality, eat right away or cool to 32°F within one hour of harvest. Store at 32-34°F with 98% relative humidity. GMO POLICY: Through a combination of controlled stock seed production, field isolation and inspection, and policies for harvesting and handling, we focus on prevention of GMO contamination in all our seeds. All corn seed lots are also tested to confirm zero detectable level in 10,000 seeds. No contaminated seed lots will ever be sold.
View on High Mowing ↗▸Who Gets Kissed?78–84 days
Sugary enhanced (se); 7-8” ears
Resistance: IR: Common Rust; Smut
A sweet corn bred for (and by) organic growers. Excellent flavor and texture; good cool soil emergence. Compact 5-6’ tall plants with ears 2’ off the ground. Good tip fill and husk coverage. Extended harvest window—check frequently for maturity. Developed by Dr. Bill Tracy, Dr. Jared Zystro, Dr. Adrienne Shelton and Dr. John Navazio in collaboration with Organic Seed Alliance and farmer Martin Diffley. High Mowing is the exclusive producer of organic seed for this variety. A portion of the sales of this variety is paid to the breeder.
Growing notes: Days to maturity are from direct seeding. Corn is a warm-season, tender annual. It is a heavy feeder that needs high fertility and benefits from side dressing. Plant sweet corn varieties away from flint corn and popcorn to avoid crossed kernels. For improved pollination, plant in blocks with a minimum of four rows rather than long single rows. Side dress when plants are a foot tall. Harvest when ear silks have dried to a dark brown and kernels are filled to the tip and colored. Sweet corn is generally ready 21 days after first silk. For best quality, eat right away or cool to 32°F within one hour of harvest. Store at 32-34°F with 98% relative humidity. GMO POLICY: Through a combination of controlled stock seed production, field isolation and inspection, and policies for harvesting and handling, we focus on prevention of GMO contamination in all our seeds. All corn seed lots are also tested to confirm zero detectable level in 10,000 seeds. No contaminated seed lots will ever be sold.
View on High Mowing ↗▸Ambrosia Hybrid80–90 days
Vegetable; Annual
Resistance: HR: Northern Corn Leaf Blight; Stewart's Wilt
80-90 Days to maturity. Zea mays. Ambrosia Hybrid Corn Seeds. Non-GMO, annual, hybrid, Sweet Corn. Suitable for growing in garden plots or raised beds. Corn tolerates heat and drought-prone regions. Northern Corn Leaf Blight, Stewart's Wilt. Ambrosia Hybrid is sweet corn with specks of bright yellow and dark yellow kernels. Stalk grow tall, nearly up to seven feet, producing large ears that have 16 rows of tender, crunchy kernels. The Ambrosia Hybrid variety of corn seeds is great variety for beginners, and produces a high yield. The stalks can grow up to seven feet tall, and produce large ears with light and dark yellow kernels ~125 seeds/oz.
View on True Leaf Market ↗▸Bodacious R/M Hybrid80–90 days
Vegetable; Annual
Resistance: HR: Common Rust; Maize Dwarf / Mosaic Virus; Northern Corn Leaf Blight; Stewart's Wilt
80-90 Days to maturity. Zea mays. Bodacious R/M Hybrid Corn Seeds. Non-GMO, annual, hybrid, Sweet Corn. Suitable for growing in garden plots or raised beds. Corn tolerates heat and drought-prone regions. Resistant to Common Rust, Maize Dwarf / Mosaic Virus, Northern Corn Leaf Blight, and Stewart’s Wilt. Discover the super sweet flavor of Bodacious Hybrid Corn. Produces huge yields of long 8-inch ears with a 2-inch diameter. Up to 18 rows of bright yellow kernels. The Bodacious Hybrid variety of corn seeds grow to be seven foot tall stalks, which provide large ears of yellow corn with a sweet flavor, growing up to eight inches. The Bodacious Hybrid matures in 80 to 90 days, making it one of the latest-maturing corn varieties. Packet sizes available for untreated seeds ~150 seeds/oz.
View on True Leaf Market ↗▸Golden Bantam 1280–85 days
Heirloom; Vegetable; Annual
80-85 Days to maturity. Zea mays. Golden Bantam 12Corn Seeds. Non-GMO, annual, open-pollinated, heirloom, Sweet Corn. Suitable for growing in garden plots or raised beds. Corn tolerates heat and drought-prone regions. The Golden Bantam variety of corn seeds is known for its vibrant, golden color. The stalks provide five to six inch long ears, and can tolerate dry temperatures. Corn seed may be saved after harvest for planting in subsequent years. This hardy variety has 5 to 6 inch ears of good quality for an open pollinated sweet corn. Equally suited for freezing and fresh-eating. ~115 seeds/oz.
View on True Leaf Market ↗▸Jubilee Hybrid80–89 days
Vegetable; Annual
Resistance: HR: Common Rust; Southern Corn Leaf Blight
80-89 Days to maturity. Zea mays. Jubilee Hybrid Corn Seeds. Non-GMO, annual, hybrid, Sweet Corn. Suitable for growing in garden plots or raised beds. Corn tolerates heat and drought-prone regions. Resistant to Common Rust, Southern Corn Leaf Blight. Recommended by USU. Ears are 8 1/2 to 9 inches long with 18 to 20 rows of yellow kernels. Popular variety, producing large yields that are good for processing, freezing, and fresh eating. Jubilee Hybrid variety of corn seeds grows to be six-foot-tall stalks, which provide large ears of yellow corn with a sweet flavor, between eight and nine inches. Jubilee Hybrid is mature after ninety days, making this one of the latest varieties of corn seed. ~150 seeds/oz.
View on True Leaf Market ↗▸Kandy Korn Hybrid80–90 days
Vegetable; Annual
Resistance: HR: Common Rust; Northern Corn Leaf Blight; Stewart's Wilt
80-90 Days to maturity. Zea mays. Kandy Korn Hybrid Corn Seeds. Non-GMO, annual, hybrid, Sweet Corn. Suitable for growing in garden plots or raised beds. Corn tolerates heat and drought-prone regions. Resistant to Common Rust, Northern Corn Leaf Blight, Stewart’s Wilt. Kandy Korn Hybrid variety of corn seeds grow to be seven feet tall stalks, which provide large, eight inch ears of yellow corn with a sweet flavor. The husks are green with streaks of dark red running through them, giving them a subtle and intriguing look. This favorite variety has a distinctive reddish stripe on the husks, reddish plant, and a fine sweet flavor. Possessing the E.H. gene, this variety will hold its flavor for about 2 weeks on the stalk.~177 seeds/oz.
View on True Leaf Market ↗▸Peaches and Cream Hybrid80–90 days
Vegetable; Annual
Resistance: HR: Northern Corn Leaf Blight; Southern Corn Leaf Blight
80-90 Days to maturity. Zea mays. Peaches and Cream Hybrid Corn Seeds. Non-GMO, annual, hybrid, Sweet Corn. Suitable for growing in garden plots or raised beds. Corn tolerates heat and drought-prone regions. Resistant to Northern Corn Leaf Blight, Southern Corn Leaf Blight. Peaches and Cream Hybrid is a staple American crop. Full-season fresh market bicolor corn. Designed for a fresh market, roadside stand, and home garden. Peaches and Cream Hybrid variety of corn seeds is a hybrid that produces a high yield of yellow and white kernels. The stalks produce large, eight-inch ears. Peaches and Cream Hybrid crop does best with full sun, in growing zones three to eleven. ~177 seeds/oz.
View on True Leaf Market ↗▸Peaches and Cream Hybrid (treated)80–90 days
Vegetable; Annual
Resistance: HR: Northern Corn Leaf Blight; Southern Corn Leaf Blight
80-90 Days to maturity. Zea mays. Peaches and Cream Hybrid Corn Seeds. Non-GMO, annual, hybrid, Sweet Corn. Suitable for growing in garden plots or raised beds. Corn tolerates heat and drought-prone regions. Resistant to Northern Corn Leaf Blight, Southern Corn Leaf Blight. Peaches and Cream Hybrid is a staple American crop. Full-season fresh market bicolor corn. Designed for a fresh market, roadside stand, and home garden. Peaches and Cream Hybrid variety of corn seeds is a hybrid that produces a high yield of yellow and white kernels. The stalks produce large, eight-inch ears. Peaches and Cream Hybrid crop does best with full sun, in growing zones three to eleven. ~177 seeds/oz. This seed is treated with a fungicide designed to prevent or reduce seed rot in the soil. It does not affect the plant or the produce from the plant. This seed is intended for planting only. Do not eat this seed or use it for oil or animal feed. Keep this seed out of the reach of children. Wash hands after handling. Packet sizes available for untreated seeds.
View on True Leaf Market ↗▸Rainbow80–110 days
An ornamental flint corn producing 7-10 inch cobs studded with multicolored kernels in shades of red, orange, yellow, blue, purple, white, and brown on 6-8 foot stalks. Striking for autumn displays, the dried kernels can also be ground into cornmeal or popped.
View on Seeds Now ↗▸Silver King Hybrid80–90 days
Vegetable; Annual
Resistance: HR: Northern Corn Leaf Blight; Rust; Stewart's Wilt
80-90 Days to maturity. Zea mays. Silver King Hybrid Corn Seeds. Non-GMO, annual, hybrid, Sweet Corn. Suitable for growing in garden plots or raised beds. Corn tolerates heat and drought-prone regions. Resistant to Northern Corn Leaf Blight, Rust, Stewart's Wilt. The Silver King Hybrid variety of corn seeds grow to be between six and seven foot tall stalks, which provide large ears of white corn with a sweet flavor, growing up to eight inches. The Silver King Hybrid is mature after eighty days. This variety is adaptable and particularly resistant to disease. A high quality, homozygous, sugary enhanced (se) white corn. Tender kernels consistently fill each ear all the way to the tip. Ears average 8 inches long with 16 to 18 rows. The medium green husks provide good cover. Silver King is tolerant to Stewart's wilt, northern corn leaf blight, and common rust. ~150 seeds/oz.
View on True Leaf Market ↗▸Dakota Black81–109 days
BLACK; Popcorn; Long storage; 5-6” ears
Delicious and beautiful with eye-catching black kernels. Perfect rows of purple-black kernels up to the tip. 6-7’ plants typically have one ear each. Allow to dry fully in the field and continue drying inside for best popping. Bred by Prairie Road Organic Farm in North Dakota.
Growing notes: Days to maturity are from direct seeding. Corn is a warm-season, tender annual. It is a heavy feeder that needs high fertility and benefits from side dressing. Plant sweet corn varieties away from flint corn and popcorn to avoid crossed kernels. For improved pollination, plant in blocks with a minimum of four rows rather than long single rows. Side dress when plants are a foot tall. Harvest when ear silks have dried to a dark brown and kernels are filled to the tip and colored. Sweet corn is generally ready 21 days after first silk. For best quality, eat right away or cool to 32°F within one hour of harvest. Store at 32-34°F with 98% relative humidity. GMO POLICY: Through a combination of controlled stock seed production, field isolation and inspection, and policies for harvesting and handling, we focus on prevention of GMO contamination in all our seeds. All corn seed lots are also tested to confirm zero detectable level in 10,000 seeds. No contaminated seed lots will ever be sold.
View on High Mowing ↗▸Stowell's Evergreen81–109 days
Heirloom; Vegetable; Annual
95 Days to maturity. Zea mays. Stowells Evergreen Corn Seeds. Non-GMO, annual, open-pollinated, heirloom, Sweet Corn. Suitable for growing in garden plots or raised beds. Corn tolerates heat and drought-prone regions. Stowell's Evergreen Sweet Corn (95 days) was originally developed by Nathaniel Newman Stowell of Burlington, New Jersey in 1848. Stowell was a farmer and spent some years refining this variety, which he developed by crossing Menomony Soft Corn and Northern Sugar Corn. In the fall of 1855, he sold just two ears of seed corn to a close friend for four dollars, on the agreement that the seed was for personal use only. Stowell's "friend" then re-sold the same seed for a whopping $20,000 to Thoburn and Company who released the variety commercially in late 1856. This delicious white sweet corn is regarded as the "King of All White Sweet Corn Varieties", has been popular for over 162 years. Stowell's Evergreen matures slowly over a long period, extending the usual harvest and produces 9 inch ears with 16 to 20 rows of plump, sweet white kernels. ~140 seeds/oz.
View on True Leaf Market ↗▸Hopi Blue85–115 days
Heirloom; Vegetable; Annual
100 Days to maturity. Zea mays. Blue Hopi Corn Seeds. Non-GMO, annual, open-pollinated, heirloom, Flint and Flour Corn. Suitable for growing in garden plots or raised beds. Corn tolerates heat and drought-prone regions. Blue Hopi is known for its large, blue ears (8-9 inches) with a sweet flavor. While this is sweet corn when harvested young, it is most commonly used as a flint and flour type when it is ground for a blue corn meal used for tortillas, corn chips, or blue cornbread. Its blue color also makes it highly decorative. Contains 20% more protein than other varieties of corn. ~90 seeds/oz.
View on True Leaf Market ↗▸Strawberry, Popcorn85–115 days
Quick Overview • Organic • 100 Days • Popcorn Details Produces 4 foot stalks containing 2 to 4 ears of corn at about 3'' long. Makes for delicious popcorn or fun fall decorations.
View on Seeds Now ↗▸Roy’s Calais Flint90–95 days
GOLD/RED; Ornamental/Milling; 9-12” ears
Beautiful gold and maroon ears excellent for cornmeal, flour and hominy. This excellent Vermont flint corn was recognized by the Slow Food Ark of Taste as a historic variety in need of preservation. Highly ornamental and genetically unusual blend of colors. Seed royalties are paid to the Indigenous Seed Keepers Network in acknowledgement of the historic breeding work done by the Abenaki people of the Northeast and Quebec. A portion of the sales of this variety go to the Native American Food Sovereignty Alliance.
Growing notes: Days to maturity are from direct seeding. Corn is a warm-season, tender annual. It is a heavy feeder that needs high fertility and benefits from side dressing. Plant sweet corn varieties away from flint corn and popcorn to avoid crossed kernels. For improved pollination, plant in blocks with a minimum of four rows rather than long single rows. Side dress when plants are a foot tall. Harvest when ear silks have dried to a dark brown and kernels are filled to the tip and colored. Sweet corn is generally ready 21 days after first silk. For best quality, eat right away or cool to 32°F within one hour of harvest. Store at 32-34°F with 98% relative humidity. GMO POLICY: Through a combination of controlled stock seed production, field isolation and inspection, and policies for harvesting and handling, we focus on prevention of GMO contamination in all our seeds. All corn seed lots are also tested to confirm zero detectable level in 10,000 seeds. No contaminated seed lots will ever be sold.
View on High Mowing ↗▸Glass Gem93–127 days
Vegetable; Annual
110 days. The Glass Gem variety of corn was developed by Carl Barnes, a farmer from Oklahoma, as a way of reconnecting with his Cherokee heritage. The Glass Gem seeds produce ears of colorful, rainbow kernels. Each ear is entirely unique. This crop does best with full sun, in grow zones three to eleven.
View on True Leaf Market ↗▸Robust Yellow Hulless Hybrid93–127 days
Vegetable; Annual
110 Days to maturity. Zea mays. Robust Yellow Hulless Hybrid Corn Seeds. Non-GMO, annual, hybrid, Pop Corn. Suitable for growing in garden plots or raised beds. Corn tolerates heat and drought-prone regions. Robust Yellow Hulless Hybrid is exceptionally good for popcorn with a thin hull for easy popping. Very productive with long ears on tall stalks. Approx. 200 seeds/oz. Growing your own popcorn is as easy as growing regular sweetcorn. Plant and grow these seeds in your garden as you would any other kind of corn, allow the ears to fully mature, and you have an easy and natural snack. If grown in the dark, this variety can also produce very sweet shoots. ~200 seeds/oz.
View on True Leaf Market ↗▸Hickory King White98–132 days
Heirloom; Non-GMO; Grain; Vegetable; Annual
115 Days to maturity. Zea mays. Hickory King White Corn Seeds. Non-GMO, annual, open-pollinated, heirloom, Dent Corn. Suitable for growing in garden plots or raised beds. Corn tolerates heat and drought-prone regions. One of the best varieties for hominy because the skin slips off so easy. Excellent root structure, but remember to plant them on 8-10" centers so they can help support each other in high winds. ~52 seeds/oz.
View on True Leaf Market ↗▸Tap Dancer98–132 days
BICOLOR; High quality popcorn; Full size; 6.5" ears
Gorgeous open pollinated popcorn with yellow, purple and white kernel coloration. A standout in our trials. Vigorous plants grow upwards of 9.6' producing uniform, full-sized ears of beautifully colorful popcorn with good tip fill. Kernels pop easily when cooked, becoming fluffy with great eating quality. Bred by Dan Kelly at Blue Heron Orchard.
Growing notes: Days to maturity are from direct seeding. Corn is a warm-season, tender annual. It is a heavy feeder that needs high fertility and benefits from side dressing. Plant sweet corn varieties away from flint corn and popcorn to avoid crossed kernels. For improved pollination, plant in blocks with a minimum of four rows rather than long single rows. Side dress when plants are a foot tall. Harvest when ear silks have dried to a dark brown and kernels are filled to the tip and colored. Sweet corn is generally ready 21 days after first silk. For best quality, eat right away or cool to 32°F within one hour of harvest. Store at 32-34°F with 98% relative humidity. GMO POLICY: Through a combination of controlled stock seed production, field isolation and inspection, and policies for harvesting and handling, we focus on prevention of GMO contamination in all our seeds. All corn seed lots are also tested to confirm zero detectable level in 10,000 seeds. No contaminated seed lots will ever be sold.
View on High Mowing ↗▸Indian100–110 days
Heirloom; Vegetable; Annual
100-110 Days to maturity. Zea mays. Ornamental - Indian Corn Seeds. Non-GMO, annual, open-pollinated, heirloom, Flint Corn. Suitable for growing in garden plots or raised beds. Corn tolerates heat and drought-prone regions. Ornamental - Indian has a kaleidoscope of soft and muted earth tones that mature just in time for autumn decor, Indian Rainbow corn features some of the most spectacular colors grown in any season. Boasting vibrant and exotic shades of gold, pink, blue, orange, and purple, Indian Rainbow ornamental corn delivers robust 8-10" ornamental ears popularly used as animal fodder or as seasonal adornment. ~150 seeds/oz.
View on True Leaf Market ↗▸Glass Gem Popcorn102–138 days
MULTICOLOR; Popcorn/parching corn; 5-8" ears
Glassy, translucent kernels of unparalleled beauty. Plants are strong, reaching 8-10’ tall and high yielding. Each 5-8" ear displays a gorgeous, unique variation of colors ranging from purples, greens and blues to oranges, yellows, pinks and deep reds. Though ornamental, kernels can be popped, ground or parched. This rare variety is the result of a cross between a Pawnee miniature corn, an Osage red flour corn, and another Osage variety called 'Greyhorse.' It was selected and preserved by the late breeder Carl Barnes, an Oklahoma Cherokee dedicated to preserving traditional Native American corns. My Fair Lady F1 Allure F1 Natural Sweet XR F1
Growing notes: Days to maturity are from direct seeding. Corn is a warm-season, tender annual. It is a heavy feeder that needs high fertility and benefits from side dressing. Plant sweet corn varieties away from flint corn and popcorn to avoid crossed kernels. For improved pollination, plant in blocks with a minimum of four rows rather than long single rows. Side dress when plants are a foot tall. Harvest when ear silks have dried to a dark brown and kernels are filled to the tip and colored. Sweet corn is generally ready 21 days after first silk. For best quality, eat right away or cool to 32°F within one hour of harvest. Store at 32-34°F with 98% relative humidity. GMO POLICY: Through a combination of controlled stock seed production, field isolation and inspection, and policies for harvesting and handling, we focus on prevention of GMO contamination in all our seeds. All corn seed lots are also tested to confirm zero detectable level in 10,000 seeds. No contaminated seed lots will ever be sold.
View on High Mowing ↗▸Bloody Butcher110–120 days
An Appalachian heirloom dent corn dating to the mid-1800s, named for the blood-red flecks that mottle its kernels like splatters on a butcher's apron. Stalks reach 10-12 feet and bear red-striped kernels on pink-to-red cobs with a rich, nutty flavor. Prized for stone-ground cornmeal, fall decoration, and distilling.
View on Seeds Now ↗
Plant spacing
In a square-foot bed, space corn about 6 in apart — that fits 4 plants in each 1-foot square (2×2). Wider rows or containers space the same.
Plan your corn planting
Add corn to a free GardenDraft plan and get sow, transplant, and harvest dates computed for your ZIP code — with a drag-and-drop bed layout and reminders when it’s time to plant.
Start your free plan →At a glance
Storing & preserving
Best used right away — quality drops fast. Use within a day or two — sugars turn to starch fast.
- Freeze: Blanch briefly, cool, then freeze — keeps color and texture.
- Can: Pressure-can (a low-acid vegetable).
General home-preservation guidance — for tested processing times and safety, follow the National Center for Home Food Preservation.
Growing timeline
Companion planting — with cited sources
From US/Canada cooperative-extension publications and peer-reviewed studies. Evidence-tier dots show how strongly each recommendation is backed: ●●● peer-reviewed mechanism · ●● extension consensus · ● traditional knowledge with a plausible mechanism.
Pairs well with (23)
- Common BeanEvidence tier A: Peer-reviewed studies in US/Canada production conditions with a clear mechanismn-fixation, structural-support
In the Three Sisters polyculture, climbing common bean fixes atmospheric nitrogen via Rhizobium and uses the corn stalk for structural support; squash provides living mulch that conserves moisture and suppresses weeds. The combined polyculture yield (land-equivalent ratio > 1) is well-documented in peer-reviewed studies (Zhang et al., 2014). Note: most of the bean-fixed nitrogen is sequestered in bean biomass and is mineralized for the FOLLOWING season — meaningful in-season N transfer to corn is minimal. The main benefit to corn in the same season is structural and weed-suppression, not direct N. Bush bean provides similar N-fixation benefits to pole bean without the climbing relationship; recommended in extension home-garden guides as a corn companion when pole bean is impractical.
Timing: Plant bean 2-3 weeks after corn so corn has a 15-20 cm head start; otherwise bean shades the corn.
Region: Northeast and Great Lakes original range; widely adapted with timing adjustment.
Source: S1, Penn State Extension, S21
- Black WalnutEvidence tier B: Extension consensus across multiple US/Canada land-grant institutionsjuglone-tolerant
Corn is juglone-tolerant — grows normally within the dripline. Several extension tables list corn as a 'plant safely under walnut' crop. (This is a positive/tolerant association, not a synergy.)
- CowpeaEvidence tier B: Extension consensus across multiple US/Canada land-grant institutionsn-fixation
Cowpea-corn intercropping is documented in southeastern US extension and SARE trials. Cowpea nodulates with Bradyrhizobium spp. and contributes both in-season N (via early nodule turnover) and residual N to the following crop. Cowpea also serves as a heat- and drought-tolerant summer pulse where common bean fails.
Region: Southeastern US, southern Plains, mid-Atlantic.
- Crookneck PumpkinEvidence tier B: Extension consensus across multiple US/Canada land-grant institutionsweed-suppression, moisture-conservation, shade-shelter
Pumpkin/winter squash is the classic Three Sisters companion: vines cover the soil, suppress weeds, and conserve moisture for corn. Cornell, Iowa State, and West Virginia University extension publish detailed planting protocols, while emphasizing supplemental fertility for the heavy-feeding corn in the first season.
Timing: Sow squash 2-3 weeks after corn reaches 6-12 inches.
- CushawEvidence tier B: Extension consensus across multiple US/Canada land-grant institutionsweed-suppression, moisture-conservation, shade-shelter
Cushaw is the historical Three Sisters squash species in parts of the southwestern US and Mexico, intercropped with corn and beans. The squash vines provide weed-suppressive ground cover, retain soil moisture, and the prickly leaves discourage some browsers. Cornell, Iowa State, and West Virginia extension publish guidance for the Three Sisters system.
Timing: Direct seed squash 2-3 weeks after corn establishes a foot of height.
Region: Southwestern US and Mexico traditional intercrop.
- Lima BeanEvidence tier B: Extension consensus across multiple US/Canada land-grant institutionsn-fixation, structural-support
Pole lima bean is a documented Three Sisters substitute for common pole bean in the southeastern US. Nodulates with Rhizobium tropici and Rhizobium leguminosarum; contributes residual N to subsequent crops. Bush lima types do not provide structural support and are used in bush bean style polycultures.
Region: Southeast and mid-Atlantic US.
Source: S11, NC State Extension
- PeanutEvidence tier B: Extension consensus across multiple US/Canada land-grant institutionsn-fixation
Peanut nodulates with Bradyrhizobium and fixes atmospheric nitrogen. In southeastern US corn-peanut intercropping and rotation trials, peanut contributes residual N to a following corn crop and can be intercropped at low corn density without significant peanut yield loss. The benefit is primarily realized after peanut residue decomposition rather than during the same season.
Region: Most relevant in the southeastern peanut belt (NC, GA, AL, FL, TX) where peanut is field-grown; less applicable in northern US/Canada home gardens.
Source: S11, NC State Extension
- Runner BeanEvidence tier B: Extension consensus across multiple US/Canada land-grant institutionsn-fixation, structural-support
Runner bean is a climbing legume well suited to using corn stalks for support in Three Sisters and home-garden polycultures. It nodulates with Rhizobium leguminosarum, contributes residual N, and tolerates cooler conditions than common pole bean.
Timing: Direct seed 2-3 weeks after corn establishes.
Region: Cool-summer regions (PNW, Northeast, Canada).
- Squash (Cucurbita spp., generic)Evidence tier B: Extension consensus across multiple US/Canada land-grant institutionsshade-shelter, weed-suppression, moisture-conservation
Third Sister: squash sprawls between corn hills, its large leaves shading soil, suppressing weeds, conserving soil moisture, and (anecdotally) deterring raccoons with prickly stems. Combined plot yield exceeds monocultures of any one crop on equivalent land area.
Timing: Direct-seed squash with or just after the bean planting (3-4 weeks after corn).
- Winter SquashEvidence tier B: Extension consensus across multiple US/Canada land-grant institutionsweed-suppression, moisture-conservation, shade-shelter
C. moschata ('butternut'-type) is widely used in Three Sisters intercropping. Vines shade soil, suppress weeds, and conserve moisture; the prickly leaves moderate browsing pressure. C. moschata is also notably more resistant to squash vine borer than C. pepo and C. maxima, making it the preferred Three Sisters squash in the eastern US.
Timing: Direct-seed 2-3 weeks after corn emergence.
Region: Eastern US and Midwest where squash vine borer is endemic.
Source: S1, S8, UMass Center for Agriculture
- Catjang BeanEvidence tier C: Traditional practice with plausible mechanism but limited empirical replicationn-fixation
Catjang is a subspecies of cowpea (V. unguiculata); companion interactions are equivalent to the cowpea entry. See cowpea for full data.
Source: S11
- Common AmaranthEvidence tier C: Traditional practice with plausible mechanism but limited empirical replicationshade-shelter, predator-attract
Grain amaranth has been interplanted with corn in traditional Mesoamerican systems and appears in SARE on-farm trials as a tall, drought-tolerant companion that supports beneficial insects (lacewings, predatory beetles). Yield benefits are inconsistent and competition for light/water must be managed.
Timing: Direct-seed amaranth after corn is 15-20 cm tall to limit competition.
Region: Best in warm-season Midwest/Southwest plantings.
Source: SARE
- Common CucumberEvidence tier C: Traditional practice with plausible mechanism but limited empirical replicationshade-shelter
Cucumber, like squash, can serve as a ground-cover companion under corn; less traditional than squash but functionally similar where space is limited.
Source: Penn State Extension
- Common SunflowerEvidence tier C: Traditional practice with plausible mechanism but limited empirical replicationstructural-support, pollinator-attract
Sunflowers planted in or near corn rows provide structural niches for pole beans and feed pollinators and seed-eating birds; not a documented yield benefit but a common Midwest home-garden practice.
Source: S8
- Hyacinth BeanEvidence tier C: Traditional practice with plausible mechanism but limited empirical replicationn-fixation, structural-support
Hyacinth bean is occasionally used as a tropical/subtropical analog of pole bean in Three Sisters-style intercrops in the southeastern US. It nodulates well and climbs corn stalks. Specific extension documentation is limited; the recommendation extends from general legume intercropping principles.
Region: Zones 8-10; primarily ornamental in northern US.
Source: S11
- Love-Lies-BleedingEvidence tier C: Traditional practice with plausible mechanism but limited empirical replicationshade-shelter, predator-attract
Ornamental grain amaranth used in Three Sisters-style trial plantings; similar guidance to other Amaranthus grain types. Pollen-heavy inflorescences feed predatory insects.
Source: SARE
- Malabar SpinachEvidence tier C: Traditional practice with plausible mechanism but limited empirical replicationstructural-support, shade-shelter
Malabar spinach is a heat-loving vining green sometimes trellised on standing sweet corn or sunflower stalks in Southern US gardens; the corn provides support and partial shade that prevents bolting in late summer heat. Practice is traditional; mechanism is straightforward.
Region: Southeast and Gulf Coast summer gardens.
Source: S11
- Pigeon PeaEvidence tier C: Traditional practice with plausible mechanism but limited empirical replicationn-fixation, shade-shelter
Pigeon pea nodulates with Bradyrhizobium and is a documented intercrop with corn and sorghum in tropical and subtropical systems. In the US it functions as a summer annual primarily in southern Florida and the Caribbean. As an intercrop it contributes N and deep taproot soil conditioning, but extension-grade trials in the US/Canada are limited.
Region: Mostly relevant in zones 9-10 (FL, TX, southern CA) and US territories.
Source: S11
- Prince-Of-Wales FeatherEvidence tier C: Traditional practice with plausible mechanism but limited empirical replicationshade-shelter, predator-attract
Traditional grain amaranth in maize systems; treated under the general Amaranthus spp. guidance. Insectary value is the consistent claim; nutrient and light competition is the consistent caution.
Source: SARE
- Purple AmaranthEvidence tier C: Traditional practice with plausible mechanism but limited empirical replicationshade-shelter, predator-attract
Same guidance as Amaranthus spp.: traditional grain amaranth interplanted with corn; provides insectary value but competes for water in dryland systems.
Source: SARE
- PurslaneEvidence tier C: Traditional practice with plausible mechanism but limited empirical replicationweed-suppression, moisture-conservation
Cultivated purslane is sometimes allowed/encouraged as a low groundcover beneath taller summer crops; it covers soil, retains moisture, and is harvested as greens. Ethnobotanical literature documents this from the Mediterranean and Mexico; specific US/Canada extension data are limited.
Source: UC IPM
- Tepary BeanEvidence tier C: Traditional practice with plausible mechanism but limited empirical replicationn-fixation, structural-support
Tepary bean is the traditional Three Sisters companion in the desert Southwest (Tohono O'odham and other indigenous systems). It nodulates with Rhizobium etli and tolerates heat and drought far better than common bean. Extension documentation specific to tepary in modern Three Sisters is limited; the practice is sustained primarily in cultural/agroecology research programs.
Region: Desert Southwest (AZ, NM, southern CA).
Source: S19
- Yardlong BeanEvidence tier C: Traditional practice with plausible mechanism but limited empirical replicationn-fixation, structural-support
Yardlong is a vining cowpea subspecies suited to Three Sisters-style polycultures in the southern US: climbs corn stalks, nodulates with Bradyrhizobium, tolerates heat. Specific extension documentation is limited; the recommendation extends from cowpea/Vigna intercrop research.
Region: Southern US and warm-summer regions.
Source: S11
Avoid planting near (2)
- Common TomatoEvidence tier B: Extension consensus across multiple US/Canada land-grant institutionsalternate-host-pest
Corn earworm and tomato fruitworm are the same species (Helicoverpa zea); moths emerging from corn move readily to tomato fruit. Avoid contiguous plantings or stagger to break the cycle.
Timing: Separate corn and tomato by at least 6-9 m or stagger plantings so silking corn and fruiting tomato do not overlap.
Region: Pressure increases from north to south; severe in the South and Mid-Atlantic.
Source: Penn State Extension, S11, UC IPM Pest Notes
- Common PotatoEvidence tier C: Traditional practice with plausible mechanism but limited empirical replicationnutrient-competition
Both are heavy feeders requiring similar fertility and water; extension home-garden guides advise separating them to avoid competition and to simplify rotation. Mechanism is competition rather than chemical antagonism.
Source: University of Maryland Extension
Trap crops for this plant (1)
- Soy BeanEvidence tier B: Extension consensus across multiple US/Canada land-grant institutionstrap-crop, alternate-host-pest
Sweet corn rows planted at field edges of soybean (and cotton) serve as a preferred trap for corn earworm/bollworm (Helicoverpa zea) ovipositing moths, drawing pressure away from the cash legume. Documented in NC State and Georgia extension trials.
Timing: Synchronize corn silking with peak moth flight in surrounding fields.
Region: Southeast, Mid-Atlantic.
Source: S11, NC State Extension
Living mulch / undersow (2)
- Crimson CloverEvidence tier B: Extension consensus across multiple US/Canada land-grant institutionsn-fixation, weed-suppression
Inter-seeding crimson clover into standing corn at V6-V8 (last cultivation) establishes a fall cover that fixes N and suppresses weeds after corn harvest. Documented in Penn State and Iowa cover-crop trials.
Timing: Broadcast or drill clover at corn V6-V8 before canopy closure.
Region: Mid-Atlantic, Eastern Midwest.
Source: Penn State Extension, Midwest Cover Crops Council, Practical Farmers of Iowa
- White CloverEvidence tier B: Extension consensus across multiple US/Canada land-grant institutionsn-fixation, weed-suppression
White clover frost-seeded into standing corn at last cultivation can establish and persist as a living mulch in subsequent years, though N competition during corn fill is a risk. Less aggressive than crimson clover but more persistent.
Timing: Seed at corn V6-V8.
Source: Rodale Institute, SARE
Good successors in rotation (19)
- AlfalfaEvidence tier A: Peer-reviewed studies in US/Canada production conditions with a clear mechanismn-fixation, soil-conditioning
A 3-4 year alfalfa stand terminated ahead of corn supplies 100-200 lb N/acre and a substantial soil structure benefit. Standard practice across Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Ontario dairy rotations.
Timing: Terminate in fall or early spring 2-4 weeks before corn.
Region: Backbone of dairy state rotations.
Source: S7, S10, Midwest Cover Crops Council
- Annual RyegrassEvidence tier A: Peer-reviewed studies in US/Canada production conditions with a clear mechanismsoil-conditioning, weed-suppression
Annual ryegrass produces a deep fibrous root system (4-6 ft) that scavenges N and improves soil aggregation. Standard Midwest cover crop interseeded into V4-V6 corn or drilled post-harvest. MCCC has extensive trials.
Timing: Terminate in spring before jointing for clean kill; allow 10-14 days before corn.
Region: Most common in IN, OH, IL; termination is the main risk — herbicide-resistant biotypes are widespread.
Source: Midwest Cover Crops Council, Practical Farmers of Iowa
- Austrian Winter PeaEvidence tier A: Peer-reviewed studies in US/Canada production conditions with a clear mechanismn-fixation
Austrian winter pea fixes 60-110 lb N/acre over winter and is terminated in spring to supply corn. Especially useful in PNW and Southeast where the longer mild season allows full pea development.
Timing: Terminate at full bloom 2-3 weeks before corn.
- BarleyEvidence tier A: Peer-reviewed studies in US/Canada production conditions with a clear mechanismweed-suppression, soil-conditioning
Winter barley cover or spring-killed barley provides allelopathic weed suppression (gramine, hordenine) and a residue mulch that benefits a following corn crop.
Timing: Terminate barley 2-3 weeks before direct-seeding small-seeded crops to avoid allelopathic carryover.
Source: S29, Midwest Cover Crops Council, Putnam, 1988
- Common WheatEvidence tier A: Peer-reviewed studies in US/Canada production conditions with a clear mechanismweed-suppression, soil-conditioning
Wheat-corn rotation is the dominant Plains and Eastern Canada grain rotation; breaks disease cycles and improves residue cover for corn.
Region: Great Plains, Eastern Canada.
Source: S22, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Midwest Cover Crops Council
- Fava BeanEvidence tier A: Peer-reviewed studies in US/Canada production conditions with a clear mechanismn-fixation, soil-conditioning
Fava bean is a heavy nitrogen fixer (nodulates with Rhizobium leguminosarum bv. viciae) and is commonly used as a winter-spring cover crop or short-season pulse preceding corn. Documented peer-reviewed trials show ~28% corn yield gain following 40 plants/m² fava, and Oregon State extension publishes EM 8697 for Pacific Northwest fava as a green-manure and food crop.
Timing: Terminate at peak flowering for maximum N retention if used as cover crop; harvest pods first if used as food.
Region: Pacific Northwest, coastal California, mid-Atlantic, southern Ontario for fall-overwintered fava.
Source: S4, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada
- Hairy VetchEvidence tier A: Peer-reviewed studies in US/Canada production conditions with a clear mechanismn-fixation
Hairy vetch ahead of corn supplies 80-150 lb N/acre, frequently meeting full corn N demand in well-fixed stands. MCCC and Rodale long-term trials document yield-equivalent corn following vetch vs. fertilized control.
Timing: Terminate at flowering; plant corn 1-2 weeks later.
- OatsEvidence tier A: Peer-reviewed studies in US/Canada production conditions with a clear mechanismweed-suppression, soil-conditioning
Winter-killed oat cover crop is a standard pre-corn rotation: it scavenges residual nitrogen, suppresses winter annual weeds, then dies back to leave a friable seedbed by April.
Region: Northeast, Upper Midwest, Eastern Canada.
Source: S29, Midwest Cover Crops Council, Practical Farmers of Iowa
- Red CloverEvidence tier A: Peer-reviewed studies in US/Canada production conditions with a clear mechanismn-fixation
Red clover plowed down in fall or spring before corn supplies 70-110 lb N/acre, reducing or eliminating synthetic N. Documented in dozens of Midwest extension trials.
Timing: Terminate by tillage 2-3 weeks before corn planting.
Region: Reliable across zones 3-7; biennial habit allows full-season N accumulation.
Source: University of Guelph / OMAFRA, Midwest Cover Crops Council
- RyeEvidence tier A: Peer-reviewed studies in US/Canada production conditions with a clear mechanismweed-suppression, allelopathy-positive, soil-conditioning
Cereal rye is the dominant cover crop preceding corn across the US Corn Belt and Mid-Atlantic. Rye residues release benzoxazinoid allelochemicals that suppress germinating weed seeds (Putnam, 1988) and the heavy biomass conserves moisture.
Timing: Terminate 10-14 days before corn planting; later termination reduces corn stand.
Source: S29, Midwest Cover Crops Council, Putnam, 1988
- Soy BeanEvidence tier A: Peer-reviewed studies in US/Canada production conditions with a clear mechanismn-fixation, soil-conditioning
Corn-soybean rotation is the most-studied annual rotation in North America. Soybean nodulates with Bradyrhizobium japonicum and provides residual N reducing fertilizer requirements for following corn; the rotation also breaks corn rootworm cycles and reduces gray leaf spot inoculum. Documented yield bumps for corn-after-soybean of 10-15% are standard in Iowa State and University of Minnesota long-term trials.
Region: Corn Belt and Great Lakes; entire Canadian Prairie and Ontario soybean belt.
Source: S7, S8, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada
- Adzuki BeanEvidence tier B: Extension consensus across multiple US/Canada land-grant institutionsn-fixation, soil-conditioning
Adzuki is grown commercially in Ontario and the Upper Midwest as a short-season Vigna pulse rotated with corn and small grains. Nodulates with Bradyrhizobium and contributes residual N similar to soybean but on a shorter cycle.
Region: Ontario, Manitoba, Michigan, Minnesota specialty pulse production.
Source: University of Guelph / OMAFRA, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada
- Cereal RyeEvidence tier B: Extension consensus across multiple US/Canada land-grant institutionsweed-suppression, soil-conditioning
Corn following cereal rye can suffer N tie-up and slight allelopathic suppression but with proper management (early termination, N at planting) is widely used. MCCC notes a 'green bridge' concern for corn-on-corn following rye and recommends 10-14 day termination interval before planting corn.
Timing: Terminate 10-14 days before corn planting to avoid yield drag.
Region: Caution in the upper Midwest where cool soils slow residue breakdown.
Source: Midwest Cover Crops Council, Practical Farmers of Iowa
- ChicoryEvidence tier B: Extension consensus across multiple US/Canada land-grant institutionssoil-conditioning
Forage chicory is included in cover-crop and pasture-improvement mixes for its deep taproot, which breaks compaction and cycles nutrients. Recommended in Cornell and SARE cover-crop literature ahead of heavy-feeding row crops.
- Mung BeanEvidence tier B: Extension consensus across multiple US/Canada land-grant institutionsn-fixation, soil-conditioning
Mung bean is grown in Oklahoma, Texas, and the Canadian Prairies as a short-season summer pulse, rotated with cereal grains. Nodulates with Bradyrhizobium; contributes 30-50 lb/ac residual N to a following cereal.
Region: Southern Great Plains, Canadian Prairies.
Source: S22, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada
- Proso MilletEvidence tier B: Extension consensus across multiple US/Canada land-grant institutionsweed-suppression
Short-season proso millet is used as a summer-annual cover and emergency forage in the Northern Plains; smothers weeds and is killed by frost, leaving a clean seedbed. Practical Farmers of Iowa documents this in rotation.
Region: Dakotas, Nebraska, Prairie Provinces.
Source: Midwest Cover Crops Council, Practical Farmers of Iowa
- Sugar BeetEvidence tier B: Extension consensus across multiple US/Canada land-grant institutionssoil-conditioning
Sugar beet is a deep-rooted scavenger and is rotated with corn in Upper Midwest and Prairie systems; allows N cycling and breaks pest cycles. Field-crop rather than home-garden context.
Region: Red River Valley, Manitoba, Saskatchewan.
Source: S22, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada
- Tillage RadishEvidence tier B: Extension consensus across multiple US/Canada land-grant institutionssoil-conditioning, biofumigation
Radish ahead of corn fractures plow pan, scavenges fall N (preventing leaching), and may suppress some soilborne pathogens through glucosinolate breakdown. MCCC and Iowa State document N-scavenging at 50-100 lb N/acre captured.
Timing: Plant August-early September for full taproot development before frost.
Source: S8, S19, Midwest Cover Crops Council
- Winter WheatEvidence tier B: Extension consensus across multiple US/Canada land-grant institutionssoil-conditioning, weed-suppression
Winter wheat ahead of corn is lower-risk than rye-corn because allelopathy is mild and residue decomposes faster, but N immobilization can still occur. Best paired with a legume.
Timing: Terminate 10-14 days before corn planting.
Source: Midwest Cover Crops Council, Practical Farmers of Iowa
Sources cited
- S1
- Cornell University Cooperative Extension — vegetable production guides
- S10
- University of Wisconsin–Madison Extension
- S11
- University of Georgia Cooperative Extension
- S12
- NC State Extension
- S15
- UMass Center for Agriculture (UMass Extension)
- S17
- Rodale Institute
- S18
- SARE (Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education)
- S19
- USDA NRCS Plants Database / NRCS Plant Guides
- S21
- Cornell College of Agriculture and Life Sciences research papers
- S22
- University of Saskatchewan / Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture
- S23
- University of Guelph / OMAFRA (Ontario)
- S25
- Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada
- S29
- Cornell Soil Health Lab / Northeast Cover Crop Council (NECCC)
- S3
- UC IPM (University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources)
- S30
- Midwest Cover Crops Council (MCCC)
- S31
- Practical Farmers of Iowa — cover crop trials
- S33
- Putnam, 1988 — cereal rye allelopathy review
- S34
- UC IPM Pest Notes — specific pest pages
- S4
- Oregon State University Extension Service
- S5
- Michigan State University Extension
- S6
- Penn State Extension
- S7
- University of Minnesota Extension
- S8
- Iowa State University Extension and Outreach
- S9
- University of Maryland Extension — Home & Garden Info Center
Care & troubleshooting— extension-sourced, with citations
When to feed, prune & water
Side-dress sweet corn
Feeding- Routine careSide-dress nitrogen twice· every 4 wks · ~6 wksstrong evidence — extension confidence
Corn is a heavy nitrogen feeder. Side-dress once when knee-high and again at tasseling, and keep it well watered as ears fill.
Block-plant corn for pollination
SupportUnusual this time of year.
- Routine careSow in a square block of rowsstrong evidence — extension confidence
Plant each variety in a block of at least four rows side by side rather than one or two long rows, so wind-borne pollen lands on the silks and ears fill completely. Keep different corn types separated to avoid cross-pollination affecting flavor.
Something looks wrong?
Describe what you see on your cornand we'll rank the likely causes — most likely first, least-invasive fix first.
Stewart's Wilt (Corn, flea-beetle vectored)
Diseasesevere- CulturalPlant resistant hybrids and control the flea beetle vectorstrong evidence — extension confidence
Grow Stewart's-wilt-resistant (sweet) corn hybrids and manage corn flea beetles, since the beetle carries and transmits the bacterium; the bacterial disease itself cannot be cured once a plant is infected.
- ChemicalUse seed treatment or early insecticide for flea beetlesmoderate evidence — extension confidence
Where Stewart's wilt is a risk, use an insecticidal seed treatment or an early-season foliar insecticide to suppress corn flea beetles, per the label.
Common rust on corn
Diseasemoderate- CulturalGrow resistant hybridsstrong evidence — extension confidence
The best defense is planting rust-resistant sweet corn hybrids, since the spores blow in each year and cannot be eradicated. Most home plantings tolerate light rust without yield loss.
- ChemicalSpray early if rust is heavy· every 2 wksmoderate evidence — extension confidence
If many pustules appear early on a susceptible variety, apply a labeled fungicide per the label; sprays work best when started before rust is widespread.
Corn earworm
Pestmoderate- CulturalPlant early and choose tight-husk varietiesstrong evidence — extension confidence
Set out early plantings, which face lower earworm pressure, and choose tight-husked varieties whose long, snug husk slows larvae from reaching the ear.
- OrganicApply oil-Bt drops to silksmoderate evidence — extension confidence
About five to six days after silks emerge, apply a few drops of vegetable or mineral oil (mixed with a labeled Bt per the label) to the silk at each ear tip to smother young caterpillars in the silk channel.
Japanese beetles
Pestmoderate- CulturalHandpick into soapy water· every 1 days · ~4 wksstrong evidence — extension confidence
In early morning when beetles are sluggish, knock them into a bucket of soapy water; daily removal also reduces the scent that draws in more beetles. Skip the lure traps, which tend to attract more beetles than they catch.
- CulturalCover plants past bloommoderate evidence — extension confidence
On crops that have finished flowering and set fruit, drape a row cover or netting to keep beetles off without blocking pollination during bloom.
Northern Corn Leaf Blight
Diseasemoderate- CulturalPlant resistant hybrids and rotate/manage residuestrong evidence — extension confidence
Grow resistant corn hybrids and reduce corn residue through rotation and tillage, since the fungus overwinters in debris and free leaf moisture drives infection.
- ChemicalApply foliar fungicide if disease appears before tasselingmoderate evidence — extension confidence
On susceptible plantings with disease developing around tasseling, apply a labeled foliar fungicide, rotating modes of action per the label.
Poor tip fill and pollination in corn
Disordermoderate- CulturalPlant in blocks and water at silkingstrong evidence — extension confidence
Wind-pollinated corn fills poorly in single rows, so plant in a block of at least four short rows next season for good pollen coverage. Keep plants well watered during tasseling and silking, since heat and drought stress at that stage cause blank tips and gappy ears.
Stink bugs (brown marmorated and native)
Pestmoderate- CulturalExclude with row cover and clear nearby weedsstrong evidence — extension confidence
Cover susceptible crops with floating row cover before bugs arrive, and remove weeds and groundcover near the garden in early spring where stink bugs feed before moving to crops. Lift covers on flowering crops that need pollination.
- CulturalHand-pick bugs and egg masses· every 3 daysstrong evidence — extension confidence
Scout in the morning and drop adults, nymphs, and egg clusters into a bucket of soapy water; regular hand-picking keeps low populations in check since most garden insecticides work poorly on adults.
- OrganicSpot-treat young nymphs if numbers climb· every 1 wkmoderate evidence — extension confidence
If small nymphs are abundant, a botanical such as pyrethrin or azadirachtin, or insecticidal oil, may give some suppression per the label; adults are largely unaffected, so rely mainly on exclusion and hand-picking.
Corn seed rot in cold soil
DiseasemoderateUnusual this time of year.
- CulturalWait for warm soil before sowingstrong evidence — extension confidence
Seed rots when planted into cold wet ground, so wait until soil at 4 inches deep is at least 50F (60 to 65F for supersweet types) before sowing. Replant gaps once the soil has warmed and drained.
Phosphorus deficiency
DeficiencymoderateUnusual this time of year.
- CulturalCheck soil test and soil temperaturestrong evidence — extension confidence
Purpling in cold spring soils is often temporary, since cold roots can't take up phosphorus that's actually present; warm weather usually resolves it, so confirm a true shortage with a soil test before adding phosphorus.
- OrganicAdd phosphorus only if the test calls for itmoderate evidence — extension confidence
If low phosphorus is confirmed, work a phosphorus source into the root zone per the test recommendation, and keep soil pH in range since extreme pH ties up phosphorus.
Wireworms
PestmoderateUnusual this time of year.
- CulturalRotate away from grassy groundstrong evidence — extension confidence
Avoid planting susceptible crops right after sod, pasture, or grass cover, where wireworms build up; rotate to a less-favored crop and let infested beds dry out between plantings.
- CulturalBait-trap to monitor· every 5 days · ~3 wksmoderate evidence — extension confidence
Bury pieces of carrot or potato or a handful of soaked wheat seed as bait when soil reaches about 50F, check after several days, and remove the worms you find to gauge and reduce pressure.
Aphids
Pestlow- CulturalBlast off with water· every 3 days · ~2 wksstrong evidence — extension confidence
Knock colonies off with a strong jet of water in the morning; repeat every few days. Light infestations rarely need more.
- OrganicInsecticidal soap - label use only· every 1 wk · ~3 wksmoderate evidence — extension confidence
For persistent colonies apply insecticidal soap to undersides per label. Avoid open flowers.
Common corn smut
Diseaselow- CulturalCut out galls before they open· every 1 wkstrong evidence — extension confidence
Watch through the season and cut out smut galls while still firm and white, before they rupture into black spores; remove them from the garden and bury or trash them rather than composting.
- CulturalClean up debris and ease off nitrogenmoderate evidence — extension confidence
Remove crop debris after harvest rather than tilling it under, and avoid excess nitrogen and plant wounding, both of which favor smut.
Earwigs
Pestlow- CulturalTrap and remove· every 1 days · ~2 wksstrong evidence — extension confidence
Set rolled damp newspaper, low tuna-style cans of oil, or short tubes near plants at dusk, then dump trapped earwigs into soapy water each morning; reduce mulch and damp hiding spots near vulnerable seedlings.
- OrganicApply a bait only if damage persists· every 1 wkmoderate evidence — extension confidence
Established plants usually tolerate earwigs, which also eat aphids; if seedlings are being destroyed, a spinosad-based bait labeled for earwigs can help per the label.