The Best Time to Harvest Indian Corn

Planting

• Indian corn should be planted as soon as the soil is above 60 degrees, as this is the germination temperature for the corn. Indian corn requires three months to reach maturity. Seeds should be spaced 4 inches apart. The stalks should later be thinned to 8 inches apart for optimal growth and air circulation.

Pollinating

• Corn readily cross pollinates with other corn in an area. So, as long as you plant the corn stalks in close proximity to one another, they will cross pollinate. Avoid planting varieties such as sweet corn within 100 feet of your Indian corn, or it will cross pollinate with the corn and result in less-than-desirable crops the following year.

Harvesting

• As fall approaches, observe the color of the husks. Indian corn is ready when the husks turn yellow and brown without any green remaining. Additionally, the corn should feel firm when you touch it and very dry. Husks should easily pop off of the stalks.

After-Harvest Care

• Pull the husks away from the corn. Leave the husks on the cob for a decorative effect. Hang the cobs in a dry, cool location for air drying. Once the husks are air dried, you can use them as decorations.