Botanical Name: Zea mays
Days to Maturity: 95–120 days
Family: Poaceae
Native: Americas
Hardiness: Frost-sensitive annual
Plant Dimensions: 10'–12' tall stalks
Variety Information: Two or more 8"–12" long ears on each stalk. Kernels are deep reddish-black; occasional white, yellow, or other off-colored kernels or ears may occur.
Type: Dent (Learn More)
When to Sow Outside: RECOMMENDED. 1 to 2 weeks after average last frost and when soil is warm (60°F–65°F).
When to Start Inside: Not recommended. Corn does not transplant well.
Days to Emerge: 5–10 days
Seed Depth: 1"–1 ½"
Seed Spacing: A group of 2 seeds every 12"
Row Spacing: 24"–36"
Thinning: When 4" tall, thin to 1 every 12"
Harvesting: Let the ears dry on the stalks. They are ready for harvest when the kernels are hard and you can no longer leave a mark on them with your fingernail. Before the first fall frost, give each ear a twist until it breaks off. Peel back the husks, then hang the ears in a cool, dark, dry place for 4 to 6 weeks to cure. This is important to prevent mold. To strip off cured kernels, twist the cobs back and forth to loosen them (gloves are recommended).
