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Corn

Zea mays
Also known as: Maize, Sweet Corn, Indian Corn, Field 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

    Shoot

    Sweet flavor and good crunch

    View on High Mowing
  • (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.

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  • 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.

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  • 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

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  • 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.

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  • 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.

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  • 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.

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  • 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.

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  • 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.

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  • 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.

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  • 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.

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  • 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.

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  • 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.

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  • 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.

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  • 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.

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  • 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.

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  • 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.

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  • 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.

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  • 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.

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  • 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.

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  • 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.

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  • 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
Family
Poaceae
Category
Vegetable
Form
Grass
Lifecycle
annual
Zone
2-13
Height
4–12 ft
Spread
1–2 ft
Sun
Full sun

Plant spacing

4 plants per square footSquare-foot planting diagram: a 1-foot square divided into a 2-by-2 grid holding 4 corn plants spaced 6 inches apart.
4 plants per square foot

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.

Water
Medium

Plan your corn planting

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At a glance

Days to harvest
7–138 days
From transplant or sow to first harvest
Harvest style
Harvest once
One main harvest
After harvest
Use right away
Quality drops fast past peak
Frost tolerance
Tender · to ~32°F
Lowest temperature the foliage usually survives
Germination
~75%
Typical minimum germination rate

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

When to plant and harvest cornPlanting timeline for corn, relative to last frost: grow from around last frost to 1 week after last frost; harvest from 1 week after last frost to 20 weeks after last frost.HarvestLast frostDirect sow
Direct-sow corn around last frost; first harvest 1 week after last frost.
Outdoor planting
0 to 14 days vs frost
Propagation
Seed
Schedule anchor
Last Frost

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.)

    Source: S5, S8

  • 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.

    Source: S11, SARE

  • 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.

    Source: S1, S8

  • 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.

    Source: S1, S8

  • 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).

    Source: S1, S4

  • 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).

    Source: S1, S21

  • 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.

    Source: SARE, S19

  • 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.

    Source: Rodale Institute, Midwest Cover Crops Council

  • 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.

    Source: SARE, S29

  • 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

Block-plant corn for pollination

Support

Unusual 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.

    Source: UMN Extension; Clemson HGIC

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

Symptoms: pale-green to yellow streaks with wavy margins along leaf veins; wilting and stunting of seedlings (esp. sweet corn); leaf scorching; small flea-beetle feeding scars; bacterial ooze from cut stems

  • 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.

    Source: Cornell LIHREC; Univ. of Idaho Extension

  • 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.

    Always follow the product label — it is the law.

    Source: Iowa State Extension; Univ. of Illinois Extension

Common rust on corn

Diseasemoderate

Symptoms: small cinnamon-brown to brick-red pustules on both leaf surfaces; pustules scattered across the leaf; powdery rust-colored spores rub off; pustules darkening as they age

  • 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.

    Source: UMN Extension; NC State Extension

  • 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.

    Always follow the product label — it is the law.

    Source: UMN Extension; NC State Extension

Corn earworm

Pestmoderate

Symptoms: caterpillars feeding at ear tips; chewed kernels and frass inside husk; damaged silks; worse in later-season plantings

Japanese beetles

Pestmoderate

Symptoms: leaves skeletonized between veins; lacy chewed foliage; metallic green-bronze beetles clustered on plants; feeding worst in warm midsummer sun

Northern Corn Leaf Blight

Diseasemoderate

Symptoms: long cigar-shaped gray-green to tan leaf lesions; lesions starting on lower leaves; lesions following no vein boundaries; severe blighting and leaf death in wet seasons

  • 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.

    Source: UMN Extension; Crop Protection Network

  • 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.

    Always follow the product label — it is the law.

    Source: Crop Protection Network; Univ. of Kentucky IPM

Poor tip fill and pollination in corn

Disordermoderate

Symptoms: ears with missing or blank kernels; gaps and bare tips on the cob; scattered kernels rather than full rows; ears that did not fill out

  • 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.

    Source: UMN Extension; Clemson HGIC

Stink bugs (brown marmorated and native)

Pestmoderate

Symptoms: cloudy or corky spots on fruit; dimpled or pitted fruit; catfacing on tomatoes; shield-shaped brown or green bugs; barrel-shaped egg clusters on leaf undersides

  • 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.

    Source: UMN Extension; UC IPM Pest Notes

  • 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.

    Source: UMN Extension; UC IPM

  • 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.

    Always follow the product label — it is the law.

    Source: UC IPM

Corn seed rot in cold soil

Diseasemoderate

Unusual this time of year.

Symptoms: patchy or failed germination; seeds that rot before emerging; seedlings collapsing in cool wet soil; uneven stands after early planting

  • 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.

    Source: Clemson HGIC; Penn State Extension

Phosphorus deficiency

Deficiencymoderate

Unusual this time of year.

Symptoms: stunted plants with dark dull green leaves; reddish or purplish tint on leaves and undersides; delayed maturity and poor fruiting; symptoms worst in cold spring soils; older leaves affected first

  • 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.

    Source: UMN Extension; Missouri Botanical Garden

  • 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.

    Always follow the product label — it is the law.

    Source: UMN Extension

Wireworms

Pestmoderate

Unusual this time of year.

Symptoms: patchy poor germination; seedlings die in stretches; tunneled holes in potatoes and root crops; hard shiny orange-brown worms in soil; thinning stands after sod or grass

  • 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.

    Source: UMass Extension: Wireworms; UC IPM: Wireworms

  • 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.

    Source: UMass Extension: Wireworms

Aphids

Pestlow

Symptoms: clusters of tiny soft-bodied insects on new growth and undersides; sticky honeydew or sooty mold; curled distorted new leaves; ants tending them

  • 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.

    Source: UC IPM: Aphids

  • 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.

    Always follow the product label — it is the law.

    Source: UC IPM

Common corn smut

Diseaselow

Symptoms: swollen silvery-white galls on ears, tassels, or stalks; galls darken to a black sooty spore mass; worse after wounding, hail, or heavy nitrogen

Earwigs

Pestlow

Symptoms: ragged irregular holes in leaves and seedlings; chewed flower petals; damage to soft fruit; pincered insects hiding in dark moist spots; feeding noticed mainly overnight

  • 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.

    Source: UC IPM

  • 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.

    Always follow the product label — it is the law.

    Source: UC IPM