Sweet corn bonanza: is july the perfect time to plant?
What To Know
- Sweet corn is a summer staple, but can you plant it in July.
- It can be planted in early spring or late summer, but planting in July gives it a head start on the fall harvest.
- Use a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10, and fertilize the corn every 4-6 weeks.
Sweet corn is a summer staple, but can you plant it in July? The answer is yes, but with a few caveats. Sweet corn is a warm-season crop that prefers warm soil and plenty of sun. It can be planted in early spring or late summer, but planting in July gives it a head start on the fall harvest.
Choosing the Right Variety
Not all sweet corn varieties are suitable for planting in July. Choose early-maturing varieties that will reach maturity in 60-75 days. Some good choices include:
- ‘Early Sunglow’
- ‘Honey and Cream’
- ‘Silver Queen’
Preparing the Soil
Sweet corn prefers well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0-6.8. If your soil is acidic, you can amend it with lime. Before planting, till the soil to a depth of 12-18 inches and add compost or manure to improve fertility.
Planting Sweet Corn in July
Plant sweet corn seeds 1-2 inches deep and 12-18 inches apart in rows that are 3 feet apart. Water the seeds well after planting.
Watering and Fertilizing
Sweet corn requires regular watering, especially during hot, dry weather. Water the plants deeply every 1-2 weeks, or more often if the soil is sandy. Fertilize the corn every 4-6 weeks with a balanced fertilizer.
Pest and Disease Control
Sweet corn is susceptible to several pests and diseases, including corn earworm, corn borer, and smut. To control pests, use organic methods such as companion planting or insecticidal soap. For diseases, practice crop rotation and remove infected plants promptly.
Harvesting Sweet Corn
Sweet corn is ready to harvest when the silks turn brown and the kernels are plump and milky. To test for ripeness, pierce a kernel with your fingernail. If the liquid that comes out is milky, the corn is ready to harvest.
The Bottom Line: Sweet Corn Success
Planting sweet corn in July is possible with the right variety, proper soil preparation, and careful maintenance. By following these tips, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of sweet, delicious corn in the fall.
Questions You May Have
Q: Can I plant sweet corn in August?
A: Yes, you can plant sweet corn in August, but it may not mature fully before the first frost.
Q: How often should I water sweet corn?
A: Water sweet corn deeply every 1-2 weeks, or more often if the soil is sandy.
Q: What is the best fertilizer for sweet corn?
A: Use a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10, and fertilize the corn every 4-6 weeks.
Q: How long does it take for sweet corn to mature?
A: Sweet corn typically matures in 60-75 days, depending on the variety.
Q: How do I know when sweet corn is ready to harvest?
A: Sweet corn is ready to harvest when the silks turn brown and the kernels are plump and milky.