When to Plant Corn in East Texas: A Guide

When To Plant Corn In East Texas

Corn is a staple crop in East Texas, and for good reason. It’s a relatively easy crop to grow, and it can be a profitable one if you time your planting correctly. But when is the best time to plant corn in East Texas?

The answer to that question depends on a few factors, including the variety of corn you’re planting, the weather in your area, and your own personal preferences. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at each of these factors and help you determine the best time to plant corn in East Texas.

We’ll also provide some tips on how to get the best results from your corn crop. So whether you’re a new farmer or you’ve been growing corn for years, read on for all the information you need to know about when to plant corn in East Texas.

Month	Average Last Frost Date	Days to Maturity
March	March 15	90-100
April	March 25	80-90
May	April 5	70-80

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Planting Date

When choosing a planting date for corn in East Texas, there are a few factors to consider. These include:

• Climate: The climate in East Texas is characterized by hot, humid summers and mild winters. The average temperature in January is 50 degrees Fahrenheit, while the average temperature in July is 90 degrees Fahrenheit. The frost-free season in East Texas typically lasts from March to November.
• Soil type: The soil in East Texas is typically sandy or loamy. Sandy soils drain quickly, which can be beneficial for corn, as it helps to prevent the roots from rotting. Loamy soils are more fertile than sandy soils, but they can also hold more water, which can be a problem if the corn is planted too early in the season.
• Varieties of corn: There are many different varieties of corn available, each with its own ideal planting date. Early-season varieties of corn can be planted as early as March, while late-season varieties should not be planted until May.
• Planting methods: The method of planting corn can also affect the ideal planting date. Corn can be planted by hand, by machine, or by using a combination of both methods. Hand-planted corn should be planted earlier in the season than machine-planted corn, as it takes longer for the seedlings to emerge from the ground.

General Planting Dates for Corn in East Texas

The following are general planting dates for corn in East Texas:

• Early planting: March 15-April 15
• Mid-season planting: April 15-May 15
• Late planting: May 15-June 1

These planting dates are based on the average climate and soil conditions in East Texas. However, it is important to note that the specific planting date for your area may vary depending on the local climate and soil conditions.

If you are unsure of the best planting date for corn in your area, you can contact your local extension office for advice.

Choosing the right planting date for corn in East Texas is important for ensuring a successful harvest. By considering the factors listed above, you can choose a planting date that is most likely to result in healthy, productive corn plants.

Here are some additional tips for planting corn in East Texas:

• Choose a site that receives full sun.
• Prepare the soil by tilling it to a depth of 6-8 inches.
• Plant the corn seeds 1-2 inches deep and 8-12 inches apart.
• Water the corn regularly, especially during dry periods.
• Apply fertilizer according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Control weeds and pests as needed.

By following these tips, you can grow healthy, productive corn plants in East Texas.

When To Plant Corn In East Texas?

The best time to plant corn in East Texas is in early May, after the last frost. Corn is a warm-season crop that requires a long growing season, so it is important to plant it early enough so that it has time to mature before the first frost.

Tips for Planting Corn in East Texas

When planting corn in East Texas, it is important to choose a sunny spot with well-drained soil. Corn plants need plenty of sunlight to produce healthy ears of corn. The soil should be loose and well-drained to allow the roots to grow easily.

Corn seeds should be planted 2-3 inches deep and 8-10 inches apart. The rows should be spaced 3-4 feet apart. When planting corn, it is important to make sure that the seeds are covered with soil.

Corn plants need to be watered regularly, especially during dry spells. The plants should be watered deeply once a week. Corn plants also benefit from a side-dressing of fertilizer applied when the plants are about 6 inches tall.

Common Problems with Corn in East Texas

Corn plants can be susceptible to a number of pests and diseases. Some of the most common problems with corn in East Texas include:

• Corn borers: Corn borers are a type of insect that can damage corn plants by tunneling into the stalks. Corn borers can be controlled by using insecticides or by planting corn varieties that are resistant to corn borers.
• Corn earworms: Corn earworms are a type of moth that can damage corn ears by feeding on the kernels. Corn earworms can be controlled by using insecticides or by picking off and destroying infested corn ears.
• Corn smut: Corn smut is a fungal disease that can cause corn kernels to become enlarged and misshapen. Corn smut can be controlled by using fungicides or by planting corn varieties that are resistant to corn smut.
• Rust: Rust is a fungal disease that can cause leaves to turn yellow and fall off. Rust can be controlled by using fungicides or by planting corn varieties that are resistant to rust.

Corn is a delicious and nutritious crop that can be grown in East Texas. By following these tips, you can successfully grow corn in your garden and enjoy fresh, homegrown corn all summer long.

Here are some additional resources that you may find helpful:

• [The University of Texas at Austin Extension Service: Corn](https://agrilifeextension.tamu.edu/county-extension/corn/)
• [The Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service: Corn](https://agrilifeextension.tamu.edu/crops/corn/)
• [The National Corn Growers Association: Corn](https://www.corn.org/)

  When is the best time to plant corn in East Texas?

The best time to plant corn in East Texas is from April 15 to May 15. Corn needs a long growing season, so it is important to plant it early enough so that it has time to mature before the first frost.

What type of corn should I plant in East Texas?

There are many different types of corn that can be grown in East Texas, but the best type for you will depend on your specific growing conditions. Some of the most popular varieties for East Texas include:

• Sweet corn: This type of corn is grown for its sweet, juicy kernels. It is best to plant sweet corn in early May, so that it has time to mature before the first frost.
• Field corn: This type of corn is grown for its kernels, which are used to make cornmeal, corn flour, and other products. Field corn can be planted in late May or early June.
• Popcorn: This type of corn is grown for its kernels, which are popped and eaten as a snack. Popcorn can be planted in late May or early June.

How much space do I need to plant corn?

Corn plants need plenty of space to grow, so it is important to plan your spacing accordingly. For sweet corn, you should plant the seeds 12 inches apart in rows that are 36 inches apart. For field corn and popcorn, you should plant the seeds 18 inches apart in rows that are 42 inches apart.

How much water does corn need?

Corn is a thirsty crop, so it is important to water it regularly. In general, you should water your corn plants every 2 to 3 days during the growing season. If the weather is hot and dry, you may need to water your corn plants more often.

What kind of fertilizer do I need for corn?

Corn plants need a lot of nutrients to grow, so it is important to fertilize them regularly. You should apply a fertilizer that is high in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. The best time to fertilize your corn plants is in early spring, before the corn starts to grow.

What pests and diseases can affect corn?

Corn can be affected by a variety of pests and diseases, including:

• Corn borers: These insects feed on the corn silks and kernels, causing damage to the crop.
• Corn earworms: These caterpillars feed on the corn kernels, causing them to be unmarketable.
• Corn smut: This fungus causes tumors to grow on the corn kernels, making them inedible.
• Northern corn leaf blight: This disease causes the leaves of corn plants to turn brown and die.

It is important to monitor your corn plants for signs of pests and diseases, and to take steps to control them if necessary.

How do I harvest corn?

Corn is ready to harvest when the kernels are fully mature and golden yellow. To harvest your corn, cut the stalks at the base with a sharp knife or sickle. Then, husk the corn and remove the silks. The corn can be eaten fresh, or it can be stored for later use.

the best time to plant corn in East Texas is between April 15 and May 15. The ideal soil temperature for corn germination is 60 degrees Fahrenheit, and the soil should be moist but not saturated. Corn needs full sun and well-drained soil. The best varieties of corn for East Texas are those that are resistant to pests and diseases. Corn can be planted by hand or with a planter. It is important to thin the seedlings to 12 inches apart once they have emerged. Corn should be fertilized regularly and watered deeply once a week. With proper care, corn can produce a bountiful harvest in East Texas.