WHEN TO PLANT CORN

• Starting corn indoors is not recommended. It’s best to start them directly in the garden so that their roots aren’t disturbed due to transplanting.
• Sow corn seeds outdoors approximately two weeks after the last spring frost date. Consult our Planting Calendar (above) to see suggested planting dates for your region.
• It’s important to get corn planted as soon as possible, since it requires a fairly long growing period with warm weather. If you live in an area with a shorter growing season, choose an early variety that will mature well before the first fall frost.
• Soil temperature is key to successful germination. For corn, it should be at least 60°F (16°C), or 65°F (18°C) for super sweet varieties. 
• In colder areas, the ground can be warmed by a black plastic cover, if necessary. Plant seeds through holes in the plastic.
• A couple of weeks after planting your first round of corn, plant another crop to spread out the harvest.

CHOOSING AND PREPARING A PLANTING SITE

• Corn plants are picky about their soil. Ideally, aged manure or compost should be worked into the soil in the fall and allowed to overwinter in the soil. By spring, the soil will be fertile and ready for corn. If that’s not possible to do, simply mix in aged compost prior to planting.
• The soil should be well-draining, but must be able to hold some moisture. Corn tends to use a lot of water.
• For sufficient pollination, plan your plot right. Instead of planting one or two long rows of corn, plant “blocks” of corn at least four rows deep. This ensures that the corn—which is pollinated by wind—has a greater chance of producing viable, full ears.

HOW TO PLANT CORN

• Sow seeds about 1 inch deep and 4 to 6 inches apart in each row.
• Rows should be spaced 30 to 36 inches apart.
• You may choose to fertilize at planting time; corn is meant to grow rapidly. If you are confident that the soil is adequate, this can be skipped.
• Water well at planting time.