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Growing sweet corn in home gardens

Quick facts

  • Know what genetic type of corn you are planting.
  • Isolate different types of corn to prevent cross-pollination.
  • Direct seed corn in the garden after the soil has warmed.
  • Irrigate to prevent drought stress.
  • Harvest when kernels are full and "milky" when squeezed.

Crisp and tender sweet corn 

Yellow corn on the cob

There are many types of sweet corn available to gardeners. New varieties have made it easier to bring quality sweet corn to the table. New types are sweeter, crisper and tenderer. They hold their sweetness longer without becoming starchy after picking, but growing these new types can be more challenging.

Soil pH and fertility

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Selecting plants

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Planting

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How to keep your sweet corn healthy and productive

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CAUTION: Mention of pesticide or use of a pesticide label is for educational purposes only. Always follow the pesticide label directions attached to the pesticide container you are using. Remember, the label is the law.

Jill MacKenzie

Reviewed in 2018

Page survey

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