When Is Super Sweet Corn Ready to Harvest?

Developing Time

• Super sweet corn varieties are sown later than standard sweet varieties, as they need warmer soil temperatures to germinate and develop. The soil temperature must raise above 65 degrees, which usually occurs a week or two after the last expected frost date in your area. These varieties may also take a week or more of extra growing time before the ears develop their full flavor. The exact time from germination to harvest varies between varieties, but it generally falls within 70 to 90 days after the seeds germinate.

Harvest Indications

• As the corn ears develop, the stalks begin producing silks. Super sweet varieties are ready for harvesting about 20 days after these silks begin forming. Corn isn't picked when fully ripened as overly mature corn loses its sweetness; instead it is harvested while still tender. Poking a kernel with your nail helps indicate if the corn is ready. If the juice from the pierced area appears slightly milky, the corn has developed the necessary sugars. The silks may also begin to dry and brown once the corn reaches the correct maturity level.

Harvesting Methods

• Super sweet is harvested using the same methods as those used for regular sweet corn varieties. Harvest the corn by bending the stalk down under the corn ear, then twisting it until the ear snaps from the stalk. Stalks don't require cutting, but don't pull upward, as this may damage the ear. Harvesting in the morning prevents the ears from overheating. If the ears are hot after harvesting, they may quickly convert their sugars to starches, losing most of their sweet flavor and tender texture.

After Harvest Care

• Cover the ears with cold water immediately after harvesting to dissipate any heat within the ears and to prevent starch conversion. Super sweet corn varieties have their best flavor when used immediately or within two days of harvest. The sugars in super sweet varieties don't convert as quickly as those in standard sweet corn, but it's still best to refrigerate the ears until you use them to ensure best flavor. Super sweet corn stores for up to eight days before it begins to lose its sweet flavor.