How Do You Grow Painted Hill Corn?

Written by Lars Nyman on

September 19, 2024

Growing Painted Hill Corn

This variety of corn almost looks like candy! Maybe this is where candymakers got the inspiration for candy corn, right? Whatever it’s history may be, having the Painted Hill Corn (Zea mays var. saccharata) in your garden will add so much more fun and color into your vegetable garden!

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Cheatsheet: Growing Painted Hill Corn

Planting

🌽 Choose fertile soil with good drainage.

🌽 Sow seeds 1-2 inches deep, 8-12 inches apart.

🌽 Plant corn in rows to enhance pollination.

Care

💦 Water regularly, 1 inch per week.

⚡️ Provide ample sunlight, at least 6 hours a day.

🌾 Fertilize at knee-high stage with nitrogen-rich feed.

Protection

🪲 Apply organic pest deterrents as needed.

🌬️ Shield young plants from strong winds.

🌧️ Protect corn from excessive rainfall with shelter.

Harvest

⏳ Harvest corn within 20 days of tasseling.

🌽 Plump, sweet ears are ready when silk turns brown.

⚠️ Store in cool, dry place to prevent spoilage.

Benefits & Fun Facts

  • 🌽 Painted Hill Corn boasts colorful kernels resembling a painter's palette.
  • 🌽 Rich in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants, promoting a healthy diet.
  • 🌽 Cultivating corn fosters self-sufficiency and sustainable living.
  • 🌽 A single corn stalk can produce up to two ears of corn.

Growing Painted Hill Corn

Ever marveled at the striking beauty of Painted Hill Corn? This heirloom variety is not only visually appealing but also delicious.

Choosing the Right Location

Painted Hill Corn thrives in full sun. I always look for a spot that gets at least 6-8 hours of sunlight daily.

Good soil drainage is critical. If your garden has heavy clay soil, consider raised beds or amending the soil with compost.

Soil Preparation

Start by testing your soil. Corn prefers a pH between 6.0 and 6.8.

Mix in well-rotted manure or compost to enrich the soil. I typically add about 2 inches of compost and work it into the top 6 inches of soil.

Planting

Wait until the soil temperature reaches at least 60°F. Corn seeds won't germinate well in cold soil.

Painted Hill Corn seeds should be planted about 1 inch deep and 6 inches apart.

I usually plant in blocks rather than rows. This improves pollination and increases yields.

Watering

Consistent moisture is key. Corn is a thirsty plant, especially during tasseling and ear development.

Water deeply to encourage deep root growth. I aim for about 1-1.5 inches of water per week.

Fertilizing

Once the plants are about 6 inches tall, side-dress with a high-nitrogen fertilizer.

Repeat fertilization when the plants are about knee-high and again when they start tasseling.

Weed Control

Corn doesn't like competition. Keep the area around your plants free of weeds.

Mulching helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. I use straw or grass clippings as mulch.

Common Pests and Diseases

Watch out for corn earworms and European corn borers. Regularly inspect your plants and handpick any visible pests.

To prevent fungal diseases, ensure good air circulation and avoid watering the foliage.

Harvesting

Painted Hill Corn is ready for harvest when the kernels are fully colored and the ears feel firm.

Check for maturity by peeling back a bit of the husk. I like to press a kernel with my thumbnail; if it exudes a milky juice, it's ready.

Saving Seeds

Allow some ears to dry on the stalk. Once dried, remove the kernels and store them in a cool, dry place.

This ensures you have seeds for next year's crop. Plus, it's a great way to maintain the heirloom genetics of Painted Hill Corn.

My Personal Tips

Don't be afraid to experiment. One year, I planted marigolds around my corn to deter pests, and it worked wonders!

Remember, gardening is as much about learning and adapting as it is about following rules. Happy growing!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: When is the best time to plant Painted Hill Corn?

The best time to plant Painted Hill Corn is in late spring or early summer.

Q: What are the ideal growing conditions for Painted Hill Corn?

Painted Hill Corn thrives in well-drained soil, full sun, and warm temperatures.

Q: How often should I water my Painted Hill Corn?

Water your Painted Hill Corn regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged.

Q: Do I need to fertilize my Painted Hill Corn?

Yes, fertilize your Painted Hill Corn every few weeks with a balanced fertilizer.

Q: How long does it take for Painted Hill Corn to mature?

Painted Hill Corn typically takes around 80-90 days to reach maturity.

Q: How do I protect my Painted Hill Corn from pests?

Protect your Painted Hill Corn by using organic pest control methods, such as companion planting and natural deterrents.

Q: When is the right time to harvest Painted Hill Corn?

Harvest your Painted Hill Corn when the husks are dry and the kernels are plump and milky.

Q: How should I store harvested Painted Hill Corn?

Store harvested Painted Hill Corn in a cool, dry place with good ventilation, such as a mesh bag or open container.

Painted Hill corn may require some extra effort in planting and harvesting, but with some patience and extra care it can be a rewarding addition to your garden. It is a beautiful heirloom variety that will bring a unique flavor to your table. If you're looking for something special and delicious to grow, Painted Hill corn is the perfect choice.

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