Growing Sweet corn, also corn,maize

Zea mays, var. rugosa : Poaceae / the grass family

Jan F M A M J J A S O N Dec
S           S S S S S S
T T T         T T T T T
P P           P P P P P

(Best months for growing Sweet corn in Australia - sub-tropical regions)

  • S = Plant undercover in seed trays
  • T = Plant out (transplant) seedlings
  • P = Sow seed
  • Sow in garden. Sow seed at a depth approximately three times the diameter of the seed. Best planted at soil temperatures between 16°C and 35°C. (Show °F/in)
  • Space plants: 20 - 30 cm apart
  • Harvest in 11-14 weeks.
  • Compatible with (can grow beside): All beans, cucumber, melons, peas, pumpkin, squash, amaranth
  • Avoid growing close to: Celery.

Your comments and tips

Post a comment or question Display Newest first | Oldest first, Show comments for Australia | for all countries
22 Feb 09, Chris (Australia - cool/mountain climate)
Ian, poor pollination can result in corn not forming completely. Could your corn be planted too far apart, or in rows instead of the recommended blocks? (See the comment from willo on 20th Jan). It could also be due to insufficient water.
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21 Feb 09, Ian (Australia - sub-tropical climate)
The corn does not form completely on the cob. Does anybody know why? Thanks.
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15 Feb 09, Julie (Australia - temperate climate)
We have tried to grow corn, but it comes out claggy when we go to eat it. It appears OK, but the texture isn't right. Anyone have any suggestions on what may cause this?
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31 Jan 09, corey (Australia - temperate climate)
first time grower how do i tell if my corn is ready
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22 Jan 09, Colleen (Australia - temperate climate)
Willo, thanks for your response. Will hope for better results next time following your advice.
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20 Jan 09, willo (Australia - cool/mountain climate)
Colleen, the shallow soil shouldn't be a problem as sweetcorn has a fibrous root system and is shallow rooted. The most important thing is too keep the moisture up and keep them well mulched if soil is shallow. If cobs are small due to not all kerels developing, this due to lack of pollination. Follow the instructions on the site and plant in blocks. Regards.
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16 Jan 09, Colleen (Australia - temperate climate)
My sweet corn seemed to go well at first but most of the cobs were undersized. It was growing in a shallow no dig garden, could depth of soil be responsible?
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09 Jan 09, Grahame (Australia - temperate climate)
Mikal, there is no problem planting your corn now. Yig, I doubt your corn will do as well in pots as in the ground. Pauline, The corn needs to ripen on the plant before you pick it.
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06 Jan 09, mikal (Australia - temperate climate)
hi my name is mikal and i want to start growing corn my freinds have told its a month late will they still grow p.s its january
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21 Jan 20, Robert (Australia - temperate climate)
11 years... I'd like to know this also...
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Can i plant corn maize in pots?

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This planting guide is a general reference intended for home gardeners. We recommend that you take into account your local conditions in making planting decisions. Gardenate is not a farming or commercial advisory service. For specific advice, please contact your local plant suppliers, gardening groups, or agricultural department. The information on this site is presented in good faith, but we take no responsibility as to the accuracy of the information provided.
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