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

Post a comment or question Display Newest first | Oldest first, Show comments for New Zealand | for all countries
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?
Reply or Post a new comment
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.
Reply or Post a new comment
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.
Reply or Post a new comment
05 Apr 20, Deborah Hornberger (USA - Zone 10b climate)
What is the best variety of sweet corn I can plant now.
Reply or Post a new comment
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
Reply or Post a new comment
06 Jun 20, Crystal (Australia - sub-tropical climate)
Hi Dale I planted mine that way last season and had no issues
Reply or Post a new comment
24 Mar 20, Chris (Australia - sub-tropical climate)
I think they transplant ok. They sell corn seedlings in seed trays at Bunnings.
Reply or Post a new comment
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.
Reply or Post a new comment
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.
Reply or Post a new comment
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
Reply or Post a new comment
Showing 81 - 90 of 417 comments
See comments for all plants

We have tried to grow corn, but it comes out claggy when we go to eat it. It appears OK, but the texture isn't right. Anyone have any suggestions on what may cause this?

- Julie

Please provide your email address if you are hoping for a reply


All comments are reviewed before displaying on the site, so your posting will not appear immediately

Gardenate App

Put GardenGrow in your pocket. Get our app for iPhone, iPad or Android to add your own plants and record your plantings and harvests

Planting Reminders

Join 60,000+ gardeners who already use GardenGrow and subscribe to the free GardenGrow planting reminders email newsletter.


Home | Vegetables and herbs to plant | Climate zones | About GardenGrow | Contact us | Privacy Policy

This planting guide is a general reference intended for home gardeners. We recommend that you take into account your local conditions in making planting decisions. GardenGrow is not a farming or commercial advisory service. For specific advice, please contact your local plant suppliers, gardening groups, or agricultural department. The information on this site is presented in good faith, but we take no responsibility as to the accuracy of the information provided.
We cannot help if you are overrun by giant slugs.