Double Standard

Saturday, 19 September 2009 14:25

The first bicolor, open-pollinated sweet corn. Early maturing, with strong germination in cool soil. It is based on a nice yellow corn called Burnell that was grown in Maine in the early 1900’s and an early white heirloom from New York’s St. Lawrence Valley. This beautiful full-season bicolor corn produces 7.5" ears with 16—20 rows of kernels per ear. Some ears with yellow kernels only. Unlike the seeds of hybrid bicolor corn, which are all yellow, these are yellow and white. Vigorous 5’ plants. It is sweet, tender, and germinates in cold soil. An open-pollinated, bicolor variety, and is a great choice for home gardeners. Soil & Water: Corn is a heavy feeder requiring high amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (NPK). Its weak and shallow root system likes loose soil with a high compost content. Planting & Growing: Sow seeds directly outdoors 1 week after the last frost. You can start earlier by using black or green plastic mulches and floating row covers to obtain optimum conditions. Plant in blocks rather than rows to ensure good germination. To prevent cross-pollination, plant different varieties at least 40' apart and grow a hedge barrier, such as sunflowers, in between. Harvesting & Storage: Ripe corn usually has a small amount of green silk near the top, with dry, brownish silk at the ends. Sugar content is highest in the morning. •    Sun/Shade: Full sun •    Planting Depth: 1" •    Spacing After Thinning: 8" •    Soil Temperature: 70—85°F •    Days To Germinate: 4—12 •    Days To Maturity: 80 Northern gardeners, rejoice! This Certified Organic bicolor sweet corn doesn't mind germinating in cool soils, and it finishes more quickly than most others, making it the perfect choice for short-summer climates. Go to table of corn varieties