Sweet Corn 5

Corn

75d to harvest

Sun-warmed kernels burst with a honeyed sweetness and a tender, milky snap at peak ripeness. Sweet Corn 5 forms uniform, medium-to-large yellow ears with a smooth, tightly filled cob that stays succulent for days after harvest. Enjoy it straight from the garden for fresh eating, or let its bright flavor shine in summer salads, salsas, and creamy corn-forward sauces.

Crop Dates

Growing note: In frost-free Zone 11a, 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 15th
Harvest Ends	Feb 28th

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)	28
Harden Off (days)	Not Required

Frequently Asked Questions

What pest or disease most commonly affects Zea mays (sweet corn) and how can I stop it?

Watch for corn earworm (Helicoverpa zea) as silks emerge—tiny larvae bore into developing ears and damage kernels. Inspect ears every 2–3 days and remove damaged ears early; you can also use an appropriate targeted Bt product labeled for corn earworm and apply when silks first appear. For disease, keep leaves dry and improve airflow (avoid dense spacing) to reduce common rust and leaf blights that spread under humid conditions.

How often should I water sweet corn (Zea mays var. saccharata) during the main growing phase?

During tasseling to early ear fill (roughly weeks 6–10 of growth), keep soil consistently moist with about 1 inch of water per week, split into 2–3 deeper waterings if it doesn’t rain. Aim to maintain even moisture—letting the soil dry out and then re-watering can cause poor kernel development. Check by pushing a finger 1–2 inches into the soil; water when it feels dry at that depth, especially around the ear zone.

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

Harvest sweet corn about 75 days after planting and, more reliably, when silks are brown and dried but ears feel fully filled from top to tip. Press a kernel with your thumbnail—if it releases milky juice and the kernel is tender (not starchy), it’s ready. For best sweetness, harvest in the morning and cool the ears quickly after picking.