Growing Sweet corn, also corn,maize

Zea mays, var. rugosa : Poaceae / the grass family

Jan F M A M J J A S O N Dec
P                 P P P

(Best months for growing Sweet corn in New Zealand - cool/mountain regions)

  • P = Sow seed

October: After risk of frost

  • Sow in garden. Sow seed at a depth approximately three times the diameter of the seed. Best planted at soil temperatures between 61°F and 95°F. (Show °C/cm)
  • Space plants: 8 - 12 inches apart
  • Harvest in 11-14 weeks.
  • Compatible with (can grow beside): All beans, cucumber, melons, peas, pumpkin, squash, amaranth
  • Avoid growing close to: Celery.

Your comments and tips

05 Apr 20, Robyn (Australia - tropical climate)
I’ve always though corn was super hardy. My plants are about 3 weeks old, decent size and some little green caterpillars (about 1cm long) smashing it. Please help, what can I do? Natural solution?
06 Apr 20, Jenni (Australia - sub-tropical climate)
Hi, we use a mix of 1 tablespoon molasses to 1 litre water on caterpillars in corn, swamp lilies, and new cycad leaves. Molasses is available in 2 litre containers from produce stores. Good luck.
06 Apr 20, Anon (Australia - temperate climate)
Go to iView (ABC TV) on the internet and find Landline from yesterday Sunday 5/04/20 and watch the show. There is a story about the army worm (I think) that has just arrived in Northern Australia in particular Qld that is hammering sweet corn/maize.
05 Apr 20, Deborah Hornberger (USA - Zone 10b climate)
What is the best variety of sweet corn I can plant now.
23 Mar 20, Dale Winton (Australia - tropical climate)
Hi, Just wondering if it is a problem to plant sweet corn in trays and transplanting once bigger? Thanks Dale
06 Jun 20, Crystal (Australia - sub-tropical climate)
Hi Dale I planted mine that way last season and had no issues
24 Mar 20, Chris (Australia - sub-tropical climate)
I think they transplant ok. They sell corn seedlings in seed trays at Bunnings.
24 Mar 20, (Australia - sub-tropical climate)
It is very easy to germinate corn in the garden. Plant into wet soil or give a good watering after planting and don't water again for 3-4 days depending if it is hot or warm. If you over water them they will rot. You can do in trays but as mention above be careful with watering. Transplant when about 75-100mm high, don't leave it until they are 300mm high. Sane applies to bean and peas.
08 Jul 21, Janr (Australia - tropical climate)
Thnx for this advice. Some areas border on Sub-and Tropical which can be confusing. I tried corn a few years ago. The cobs seemed to shrivel up 'n die. I'm thinking of giving it another go. Interesting to see they don't like being too wet.
22 Mar 20, kishinchand chellaram (Australia - temperate climate)
Hi I plant sweet corn and is growing since January . so I want to know when it is ripe to eat it. thanks
Showing 81 - 90 of 417 comments

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