Xtra Tender Hybrid Sweet Corn

• HOW TO GROW
• FAST FACTS
• REVIEWS

Sowing: Prepare the soil with compost or other organic matter. One week after frost or when the soil consistently reaches 60 degrees F, plant the corn 1" deep and 8-12" apart. Planting blocks of four short rows ensures good pollination. Germination should take place in 5-6 days. For companion planting benefits, plant corn with cucumbers, peas, or pole beans; plants that like shade also do well with corn. Avoid planting tomatoes near corn.

Growing: After the corn emerges, keep it moist and carefully remove weeds; since corn cannot fight against weeds, mulch may be beneficial. Additional organic matter or compost helps growth, since corn is a heavy feeder. Keep in mind that corn has shallow roots which can easily become damaged by hoeing. Watch out for pests, as corn attracts many problematic insects and animals.

Harvesting: About three weeks after the corn silk appears, it will begin to turn brown; this signals that the corn is nearly ripe. When the kernels of sweet corn release a milky substance when pierced, they are ready to be harvested. If the substance is clear, they are not ready; if nothing comes out of the kernel, the optimum time for harvest has passed. Sweet corn usually tastes sweetest if picked in the morning, since sugar content peaks at this time; for best taste, use it the same day it is picked.

Seed Saving: Because this variety of corn is a hybrid, the seed it produces will either be sterile or will revert to the characteristics to one of the parent seeds; reproducing this type from its own seed will not be successful.

Latin Name: Zea mays

Type: Hybrid, Warm Season

USDA Zones: 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

Seeds per Ounce: 150

Planting Method: Direct Sow

Sunlight: Full Sun

Height: 80 Inches

Color: White, Yellow