GardenZeus Quick Tips: Should I Grow Supersweet Corn in my Garden?

GardenZeus expert Darren Butler generally recommends that home gardeners NOT grow supersweet corn varieties, which may produce plants that are less vigorous than heirlooms and hybrids. Supersweet corn may be more sensitive to cold soils and variable soil conditions. Cross-pollination between supersweet corn and other corn varieties increases starchiness in the kernels for both varieties, usually ruining their flavor and texture. Also, because corn is wind pollinated, hundreds of feet or more of separation may be required to prevent cross-pollination. Super-sweetness is more of an issue for commercial growers than in the home garden, where heirloom or sweet hybrid varieties can be harvested and cooked immediately, without worrying about the conversion of sugar to starch that occurs in corn when transported for long distances, and when ears sit waiting for days to be purchased in supermarkets.