Strawberry Corn
70d to harvest
Sweet, candy-scented kernels burst with a strawberry-like sweetness—an arresting twist on classic corn—while the ears develop a tender, juicy bite and a softly milky texture at peak ripeness. “Strawberry Corn” grows into a showpiece with bold, fruit-bright color that turns the garden into a living bouquet, then delivers that distinctive flavor for fresh enjoyment and standout roasting, plus vibrant color for salsas and pickling-style preserves.
Crop Dates
Growing note: In frost-free Zone 10b, grow this cool-season crop during the cooler dry season (October–February).
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| Start Indoors | — |
| Climate | Frost-Free Climate |
| Transplant / Sow Outdoors | Oct 1st |
| Harvest Begins | Dec 10th |
| Harvest Ends | Feb 28th |
Crop Details
| Trait | Value |
|---|---|
| Days to Maturity | 70 |
| 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
Frequently Asked Questions
What pest or disease most commonly affects sweet corn (Zea mays var. saccharata), and how can I control it?
Watch for corn earworm and fall armyworm, which often start on the silks and work into developing kernels. Spray or apply a biological control like Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) targeted for caterpillars as soon as silks first appear, and remove badly damaged ears early so larvae don’t keep spreading. Good spacing and avoiding overhead irrigation reduce the chance of fungal issues like ear rot and mold on the ears.
How can I tell when strawberry corn is ready to harvest?
Harvest when the ears are fully developed and the silks have turned brown and dried, usually about 70 days from sowing for your sweet corn type. Press a kernel with your fingernail: it should release a milky fluid and feel tender (not hard or starchy). For best flavor, pick in the morning and cook or refrigerate quickly because sweet corn sugars drop fast after harvest.