Did you know that tomatoes are technically fruits? Or that strawberries are actually nuts? Nature is full of surprises, and sweet corn is no exception—scientifically speaking, it’s not a vegetable, but a type of sweet grass. If you’re looking to add this tall, golden treat to your backyard harvest, there are a few things you should know to get the best results.
Sweet Corn Needs Plenty of Room
First things first: sweet corn isn’t exactly a “small garden” plant. Because these stalks shoot up so fast, they don’t develop a woody enough base to stand up to strong winds on their own. To keep them from toppling over, you really need to plant them in a block of at least three rows. This way, the plants can huddle together and support each other when the weather gets rough.
Finding the Perfect Spot
When it comes to location, sweet corn is a total sun-worshipper. It needs as much heat and direct sunlight as it can get. You’ll also want to choose a spot that’s naturally shielded from the wind before you sow your seeds. As for the soil, make sure it’s rich and well-fertilized. All corn varieties are “heavy feeders,” meaning they have a big appetite for nutrients in the ground.
The Right Way to Plant
A fully grown sweet corn stalk can tower up to six feet high! You need to plan for that size right from the start. Here’s the best way to get them in the ground:
- Keep at least 24 inches (60 cm) of space between your rows.
- Sow your seeds about 4 inches (10 cm) apart, since not every single seed is guaranteed to sprout.
- Once they start growing, thin them out so there’s about 12 inches (30 cm) between each plant.
One more pro tip: don’t rush into planting. Sweet corn is very sensitive to frost, so it’s best to wait until mid-May when the threat of a late freeze has passed. If you’re worried about a short growing season, you can always start your seedlings indoors in pots to give them a head start!
