Grow Your Own Mirai Sweet Corn

Plant TGF Mirai® corn seed when the soil temperature is above 55° and there is no danger of frost. If you would like to have more than one crop of sweet corn, add a second, third, and possibly fourth planting. We wait until the planted corn begins to peak out of the soil and then we know it is time for the next planting. You need to have a well prepared seedbed and continued good conditions.

It’s better to plant your corn in a series of shorter rows, forming a rectangular plot, than one long row. This will improve pollination and the quality of your corn ears. Corn contains male flowers (the tassels at the top of the stalks), which produce pollen that is blown by wind and falls into the silk of the female flowers (the ears). In a rectangular plot, the pollen is more likely to reach the silks and less likely to blow away. Rows should be approximately 30 inches apart and seeds spaced about 8 inches in the row. Plant the seed to a shallow depth, no deeper than 1-1/4 inches. Isolate Mirai from other corn varieties to prevent cross-pollination, which can change the sweetness and quality of your harvested ears.

Loose soils with neutral pH (5.5 to 7.0) are best. Corn is a heavy feeder, especially of nitrogen. Push the limits of the university recommended fertility in your area. Compost is an excellent addition to your soil. Illinois residents can get more information on fertilizing at the University of Illinois “Watch Your Garden Grow” corn page. In other states, check your local extension office website.

Depending on rainfall levels in your area, it may be necessary to water your corn crop. Sweet corn does best with at least an inch of moisture per week. Water your crop during dry spells, or if leaves look wilted or begin to curl, especially after the cobs have appeared and begin to grow. Also, keep weeds from taking over in the rows between the corn plants. Weeds will rob moisture and nutrients from the soil, and they attract pests.

At harvest, ears should be allowed to mature fully for maximum flavor and sweetness, 21 to 24 days after silking. Harvest maturity is the most critical step for TGF Mirai® sweet corn, as the key to an overall great eating experience is picking it just right. We recommend 0 or +2 on the our maturity chart —(shown lower right).

See our Recipes page for ideas on how to prepare Mirai sweet corn. Enjoy!

Download our Mirai Sweet Corn Planting Tips (PDF).