The term “sweet corn” is actually a broad phrase that includes a number of different sweet corn varieties. This summer, shake up your garden plot — and wake up your taste buds! — with one of these terrific sweet corn crops. The chart below categorizes sweet corn crops by type and variety, providing descriptions and optimal growing conditions for each. For more on sweet corn varieties and growing tips, read All About Growing Sweet Corn.
Type
|
Description
|
Cultural Tips
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Varieties
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|
Early Hybrids |
Small plants grow to less than 6 feet tall,and bear one or two small to medium- sized ears per plant. |
Best bets for cold climates or for growing in small gardens. With ample water and fertilizer, early hybrids can produce high-quality sweet corn. |
‘Early Sunglow’, |
| Main Season Hybrids 75 to 90 days |
Vigorous, stocky plants typically load up with two big ears each. The best-flavored, most productive varieties are in this group. |
When growing in average soil, fertilize with a high-nitrogen plant meal or other organic fertilizer when plants are 1 foot tall, and a second time when the tassels emerge. |
‘Argent’, |
| Open Pollinated/ Heirloom 75 to 90 days |
Plants vary in size, with some up to 8 feet tall. Expect one or two ears per plant. Sugars rapidly convert to starches as the kernels mature. Check ears daily as they approach ripeness. |
Wide Spacing helps older strains prosper with less fertilizer than hybrids. The tall stalks can double as trellises for snap beans, and provide filtered shade for pumpkins or winter squash. |
‘Black Aztec’, |
