Fiesta

Corn

Zone 10a Save Garden

🌱 75d to harvest Upright

Fiesta corn arrives in a riot of color—kernels that seem sunlit in shades of warm butter-yellow, ember-orange, and deep garnet-re…

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Direct Sow
Last Frost	Jan 16th
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	Jan 16th
Harvest Begins	Apr 1st
Harvest Ends	Dec 19th

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	75
Sun Requirements	Full Sun
Growth Habit	Upright
Support Needed	None
Planting Depth	Normal
Germination Temp (°F)	60
Min Soil Temp (°F)	55
Min Night Temp (°F)	50
Harden Off (days)	Not Required

Recommended Companions

Peredovik Sunflower

Tokiwa Cucumber

Japanese Climbing Cucumber

Tyria Cucumber

Italian White Sunflower

Manny Cucumber

Frequently Asked Questions

What pest or disease commonly affects Zea mays var. saccharata (sweet corn), and what can I do?

Sweet corn is commonly hit by corn earworm and fall armyworm, which burrow into developing ears and feed on kernels. Check ears every 2–3 days once silk appears, then hand-remove visible pests and use an ear-targeted treatment labeled for “earworms” if infestation is ongoing. To reduce disease pressure like gray leaf spot, avoid wetting leaves when watering and keep plants adequately spaced for airflow.

How often should I water sweet corn during the 60–75 day main growing phase to keep ears filling well?

During tasseling through early milk stage, keep the soil consistently moist so it stays evenly damp 4–6 in deep—usually about 1–1.5 in of water per week, adjusted for heat and wind. Water deeply 1–3 times per week rather than daily sprinkles, because sweet corn needs stable moisture for kernel development. If leaves wilt in the afternoon and the soil surface dries quickly, increase frequency of deep watering.

How do I tell when Fiesta sweet corn is ready to harvest?

Harvest when kernels are in the “milk” stage: puncture a kernel with your thumbnail—milk should release and the kernel should feel plump, not doughy. Silks should be brown and dry, and ears are typically ready around the ~75 days to maturity window if growing conditions are steady. For the best sweetness, pick in the morning and refrigerate quickly after harvesting.

Fiesta corn arrives in a riot of color—kernels that seem sunlit in shades of warm butter-yellow, ember-orange, and deep garnet-red, set in tidy rows along tender, milky cobs. At maturity it offers a sweet, creamy bite with a pleasantly crisp snap, making it a standout for fresh display and vibrant flavor-forward dishes. Grow Fiesta for its show-stopping, ornamental presence in the garden and its crowd-pleasing sweetness when harvested at the peak of tenderness.

Sowing Tips

Transplant Conditions

Wait until soil reaches 55°F and nights stay above 50°F before moving outdoors.

Expert Note

Plant ornamental sweet corn in blocks (not rows) for reliable pollination and consistently filled, colorful cobs.