What To Know
- Sweet corn can be planted in July, and with the right care and attention, you can enjoy a delicious harvest in late summer or early fall.
- When selecting a sweet corn variety to plant in July, consider the following.
- If the milky liquid that comes out is thick and creamy, the corn is ready to harvest.
The answer is a resounding yes! Sweet corn can be planted in July, and with the right care and attention, you can enjoy a delicious harvest in late summer or early fall.
Choosing the Right Variety
When selecting a sweet corn variety to plant in July, consider the following:
- Days to maturity: Look for varieties that mature in 70-80 days.
- Heat tolerance: Choose varieties that are well-suited to hot summer temperatures.
- Disease resistance: Opt for varieties that are resistant to common diseases like corn smut and corn earworm.
Preparing the Soil
Sweet corn prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a pH between 5.8 and 6.5. Before planting, amend the soil with plenty of organic matter, such as compost or manure.
Planting Sweet Corn
- Spacing: Plant sweet corn seeds 6-8 inches apart in rows spaced 30-36 inches apart.
- Depth: Plant the seeds 1-2 inches deep.
- Water: Water the seeds well after planting.
Watering and Fertilizing
Sweet corn requires regular watering, especially during hot, dry weather. Water deeply and frequently, avoiding overhead watering. Fertilize the corn every few weeks with a balanced fertilizer.
Pest and Disease Control
- Corn earworm: Control corn earworms by spraying with Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt).
- Corn smut: Remove and destroy any infected ears to prevent the spread of smut.
- Aphids: Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control aphids.
Harvesting Sweet Corn
Sweet corn is ready to harvest when the kernels are plump and milky. To test the maturity, pierce a kernel with your fingernail. If the milky liquid that comes out is thick and creamy, the corn is ready to harvest.
Storing Sweet Corn
Store sweet corn in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, blanch the corn and freeze it.
Tips for Growing Sweet Corn in July
- Plant in blocks: Plant sweet corn in blocks rather than rows to improve pollination.
- Provide support: Stake or cage the corn plants to prevent them from falling over.
- Control weeds: Keep the corn patch weed-free to reduce competition for water and nutrients.
- Mulch: Mulch around the corn plants to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
Final Note: Savor the Sweetness of July-Planted Corn
By following these guidelines, you can successfully plant and harvest sweet corn in July. Enjoy the sweet, juicy kernels throughout the summer and fall!
Questions We Hear a Lot
Q: Can I plant sweet corn in August?
A: Yes, you can plant sweet corn in August, but the maturity period will be shorter.
Q: How often should I water sweet corn?
A: Water sweet corn deeply and frequently, especially during hot, dry weather. Avoid overhead watering.
Q: What is the best fertilizer for sweet corn?
A: Use a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
Q: How can I prevent corn earworms?
A: Spray with Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) to control corn earworms.
Q: How do I know when sweet corn is ready to harvest?
A: Pierce a kernel with your fingernail. If the milky liquid that comes out is thick and creamy, the corn is ready to harvest.
