April is ideal in many U.S. zones (USDA Zones 6–9) to directly sow sweet corn, especially as soil warms to 60°F (15.5°C). Planting now ensures early harvest and better market prices by mid to late June.
Time to Maturity:
70 to 85 days depending on variety
Example:
Temptation F1: ~72 days
Honey Select: ~79 days
Ambrosia: ~75 days
Key Benefits:
Captures early summer markets with high demand.
Grows well with minimal frost risk after April.
Can be part of double-cropping with soybeans or beans.
Mechanized seeding and irrigation support ease of scale.
How to Grow:
Variety Selection: Choose Sugar-enhanced (SE) or Supersweet (Sh2) hybrids.
Soil Prep: Well-drained loamy soil, pH 6.0–6.8.
Spacing: Rows: 30–36 inches, Plants: 8–10 inches apart
Fertilization: Starter: High phosphorus (e.g., 10-20-10), Side-dress with nitrogen at knee-high stage
Irrigation: 1–1.5 inches water per week
Weed Control: Use pre-emergent herbicide or plastic mulch for early sowing.
Pollination: Plant in blocks (4+ rows) for even pollination.
Extra Tip: Add legumes like beans after harvesting corn to replenish nitrogen and maximize field use.