Corn (maize) is one of the Three Sisters (maize, beans and squash) and has been cultivated for thousands of years. Corn native to North America is thought to have been first domesticated in Central Mexico and from there spread to different peoples in North and South America. Today, corn is grown on an industrial scale, but there are many varieties that are well suited to growing in home gardens.

Corn, a member of the grass family (Poaceae), relies on wind to pollinate its flowers, so it should be planted in short rows of blocks rather than long, single rows.

Sweet Corn Varieties

Corn comes in early, mid and late season varieties. Early season varieties are the fastest maturing varieties, while the last season can take the entire growing season. Plant varieties with different "days of maturity" for a longer harvest.

There are four main types of hybrid sweet corn: sugary (water), sugar-enriched (se), shrunken (sh, sh2), and synergistic (sy). Each contains a different level of sucrose that changes the flavor and texture of the corn. Sweeter varieties will also stay sweet longer after harvest. Learn more about the differences between these types in the Recommended Varieties section below.