Nothing beats a cob picked and cooked within the hour, while the sugars are still high. Sow in a block rather than a row so the wind can pollinate every plant.
At a glance
- Plant type: Edible plant
- Mature size: 2 m tall
- Aspect: full sun
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: tender
- Maintenance: moderate maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Sweet Corn
Botanically, Zea mays is a fast-growing edible plant in the Poaceae family. It reaches around 2 m tall at maturity.
Where to grow Sweet Corn
Sweet Corn suits warm-temperate, subtropical and tropical climates and grows best in full sun. It is frost tender, so protect it from hard frosts or grow it in a sheltered spot or pot.
Soil & planting
Sweet Corn does best in free-draining and loamy soil. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Sweet Corn does best with regular, moderate watering. Feed regularly through the growing season for the best crop. Keep a newly planted specimen evenly watered through its first season; established plants can then follow the water needs above.
Pruning & care
Tip-prune Sweet Corn in spring to maintain a dense, shapely habit. Overall it is moderate maintenance.
Using Sweet Corn in the garden
Sweet Corn earns its place for edible harvests.
Companion planting & design
Combine Sweet Corn with plants that share its preference for regular, moderate watering and warm-temperate climate. Use an odd-numbered group where space allows, or repeat it at intervals through a longer bed.
Good to know
It is regarded as non-toxic and pet-safe.
Buying Sweet Corn
Plant Sale lists Sweet Corn as seed and seedlings. Current stock is confirmed manually, so register interest above before planning around a specific size.
Prefer to grow it yourself? See the Sweet Corn seed sowing guide for depth, timing and germination.
