When To Plant Corn in Tennessee (A Guide for 2023)

When to Plant Corn in Tennessee

Corn is a staple crop in Tennessee, and for good reason. It’s a relatively easy crop to grow, and it’s a good source of both food and feed. But when is the best time to plant corn in Tennessee?

The answer to that question depends on a few factors, including the variety of corn you’re planting, the climate in your area, and your 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 Tennessee.

We’ll also provide some tips on how to grow a successful corn crop, so you can enjoy fresh, homegrown corn all summer long.

Month Average Last Frost Date Days to Maturity
March April 15 90-100
April May 1 80-90
May May 15 70-80

Climate and Growing Conditions in Tennessee

Tennessee is located in the southeastern United States and has a humid subtropical climate. The state experiences four distinct seasons: spring, summer, fall, and winter.

Spring in Tennessee typically begins in March and lasts until May. The weather is mild and pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 50 degrees Fahrenheit to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. The days are getting longer and the nights are getting shorter.

Summer in Tennessee typically begins in June and lasts until August. The weather is hot and humid, with average temperatures ranging from 80 degrees Fahrenheit to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. The sun shines brightly and the days are long.

Fall in Tennessee typically begins in September and lasts until November. The weather is cooler and drier, with average temperatures ranging from 60 degrees Fahrenheit to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. The leaves change color and the days get shorter.

Winter in Tennessee typically begins in December and lasts until February. The weather is cold and snowy, with average temperatures ranging from 30 degrees Fahrenheit to 40 degrees Fahrenheit. The days are short and the nights are long.

Tennessee’s climate is ideal for growing corn. The state has long, warm summers with plenty of sunshine. The soil is rich and fertile, and the rainfall is adequate. Corn is a warm-season crop that requires a long growing season. It is planted in the spring and harvested in the fall.

Corn Varieties Suitable for Tennessee

There are many different varieties of corn that are suitable for growing in Tennessee. The best variety for you will depend on your specific growing conditions.

Some of the most popular corn varieties for Tennessee include:

  • Sweet corn: Sweet corn is a type of corn that is eaten fresh off the cob. It is typically sweet and juicy, and it is a popular summer treat. Some popular sweet corn varieties for Tennessee include “Bounty”, “Early Sunglow”, and “Sugar Daddy”.
  • Dent corn: Dent corn is a type of corn that is used to make cornmeal, corn flour, and cornstarch. It is a hard, dry corn that is not as sweet as sweet corn. Some popular dent corn varieties for Tennessee include “Golden Queen”, “Pioneer 3398”, and “Reid’s Yellow Dent”.
  • Flint corn: Flint corn is a type of corn that is used to make hominy, grits, and cornmeal. It is a hard, dry corn that is not as sweet as sweet corn or dent corn. Some popular flint corn varieties for Tennessee include “Cherokee White”, “Kiowa White”, and “Northern Flint”.

When choosing a corn variety for Tennessee, it is important to consider the following factors:

  • Your growing zone: Tennessee has a variety of growing zones, so it is important to choose a corn variety that is suitable for your specific zone.
  • Your soil type: The soil in Tennessee can vary from sandy to clayey. It is important to choose a corn variety that is adapted to your specific soil type.
  • Your climate: Tennessee has a humid subtropical climate. It is important to choose a corn variety that is adapted to your specific climate.

By considering these factors, you can choose a corn variety that will thrive in your Tennessee garden.

Corn is a delicious and nutritious crop that is easy to grow in Tennessee. With a little planning, you can enjoy fresh corn from your own garden all summer long.

When To Plant Corn In Tennessee?

Corn is a warm-season crop that requires a long growing season to reach maturity. The ideal planting time for corn in Tennessee is between April 15 and May 15. However, the exact planting date will vary depending on your location and the specific variety of corn you are planting.

To determine the best planting date for your area, you can use the following guidelines:

  • Zone 1: April 15 – May 15
  • Zone 2: April 1 – May 15
  • Zone 3: March 15 – April 15
  • Zone 4: March 1 – March 15

You can also check with your local extension office for specific planting recommendations.

Once you have determined the best planting date for your area, you can begin preparing your soil. Corn requires a well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. If your soil is not up to par, you can improve it by adding compost or manure.

When planting corn, it is important to plant the seeds at the correct depth. Corn seeds should be planted 1 inch deep. You can also plant corn seeds in hills. To do this, make a hill of soil about 6 inches high and 12 inches wide. Plant 3-4 corn seeds in each hill.

After planting the corn seeds, you should water them thoroughly. Corn seedlings need about 1 inch of water per week. You can water the corn by hand or use a drip irrigation system.

Corn is a relatively easy crop to grow, but it does require some care and attention. To ensure a successful harvest, you should provide the corn with the following:

  • Water: Corn needs about 1 inch of water per week.
  • Fertilizer: Corn should be fertilized with a nitrogen-rich fertilizer at planting time and again when the corn is about 6 inches tall.
  • Pest control: Corn is susceptible to a variety of pests, including insects, diseases, and weeds. You can control pests by using a combination of cultural practices, such as crop rotation, and chemical pesticides.

With proper care and attention, you can grow a bountiful harvest of corn in Tennessee.

Best time to plant corn in Tennessee

The best time to plant corn in Tennessee is between April 15 and May 15. However, the exact planting date will vary depending on your location and the specific variety of corn you are planting.

To determine the best planting date for your area, you can use the following guidelines:

  • Zone 1: April 15 – May 15
  • Zone 2: April 1 – May 15
  • Zone 3: March 15 – April 15
  • Zone 4: March 1 – March 15

You can also check with your local extension office for specific planting recommendations.

Once you have determined the best planting date for your area, you can begin preparing your soil. Corn requires a well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. If your soil is not up to par, you can improve it by adding compost or manure.

When planting corn, it is important to plant the seeds at the correct depth. Corn seeds should be planted 1 inch deep. You can also plant corn seeds in hills. To do this, make a hill of soil about 6 inches high and 12 inches wide. Plant 3-4 corn seeds in each hill.

After planting the corn seeds, you should water them thoroughly. Corn seedlings need about 1 inch of water per week. You can water the corn by hand or use a drip irrigation system.

Corn is a relatively easy crop to grow, but it does require some care and attention. To ensure a successful harvest, you should provide the corn with the following:

  • Water: Corn needs about 1 inch of water per week.
  • Fertilizer: Corn should be fertilized with a nitrogen-rich fertilizer at planting time and again when the corn is about 6 inches tall.
  • Pest control: Corn is susceptible to a variety of pests, including insects, diseases, and weeds. You can control pests by using a combination of cultural practices, such as crop rotation, and chemical pesticides.

With proper care and attention, you can grow a bountiful harvest of corn in Tennessee.

Tips for planting corn in Tennessee

Here are some tips for planting corn in Tennessee:

  • Choose the right variety of corn. There are many different varieties of corn available, so it is important to choose one that is suited for your climate and growing conditions. Corn varieties are typically classified by maturity date,

    When is the best time to plant corn in Tennessee?

The best time to plant corn in Tennessee is from April 15 to May 15. However, the optimal planting date will vary depending on your specific location and climate.

How do I determine the best planting date for my area?

There are a few factors to consider when determining the best planting date for your area. These include:

  • The last frost date: The last frost date is the date when the average temperature is above 32 degrees Fahrenheit for the last time in the spring. Corn should be planted at least two weeks after the last frost date.
  • The soil temperature: Corn seeds will not germinate until the soil temperature reaches 55 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • The expected growing season: The length of the growing season in your area will determine how long you have to grow corn before the first frost.

You can find more information about planting dates for corn in Tennessee by visiting the [University of Tennessee Extension website](https://extension.tennessee.edu/publications/documents/W603-15/).

How deep should I plant corn seeds?

Corn seeds should be planted 1 to 2 inches deep.

How much space should I leave between corn plants?

Corn plants should be spaced 2 to 3 feet apart.

How much water does corn need?

Corn needs about 1 to 1.5 inches of water per week.

What are the best fertilizers for corn?

Corn plants benefit from a balanced fertilizer that provides nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.

What are the most common pests and diseases that affect corn?

Corn is susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases, including:

  • Insects: Corn borers, armyworms, and grasshoppers are some of the most common insects that attack corn.
  • Diseases: Corn smut, rust, and leaf blight are some of the most common diseases that affect corn.

You can find more information about pests and diseases that affect corn in Tennessee by visiting the [University of Tennessee Extension website](https://extension.tennessee.edu/publications/documents/W603-15/).

How do I harvest corn?

Corn is ready to harvest when the kernels are plump and golden brown. To harvest corn, cut the stalks at the base with a sharp knife or sickle. The ears of corn can then be shucked and eaten fresh or stored for later use.

How can I store corn for later use?

Corn can be stored for later use by freezing, canning, or drying.

  • To freeze corn, husk the ears and remove the silk. Blanch the ears in boiling water for 5 minutes, then cool them in ice water. Freeze the corn in freezer bags or containers.
  • To can corn, husk the ears and remove the silk. Pack the corn into jars, leaving 1 inch of headspace. Add boiling water to the jars, leaving 1 inch of headspace. Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 75 minutes.
  • To dry corn, husk the ears and remove the silk. Spread the ears on a screen or rack in a dry, well-ventilated place. Dry the corn for 2 to 3 weeks, or until the kernels are hard and dry. Store the dried corn in airtight containers.

    the best time to plant corn in Tennessee is between April 15th and May 1st. The ideal soil temperature for corn germination is between 55 and 65 degrees Fahrenheit, so it is important to wait until the soil has warmed up before planting. Corn should be planted in rows that are 36 inches apart, with seeds spaced 8 inches apart in the row. Corn requires a lot of water, so it is important to water the plants regularly, especially during dry spells. Corn is a relatively easy crop to grow, and it can be a great addition to any Tennessee garden.

Author Profile

Arthur Cook
Arthur Cook
Meet Arthur Cook, the heart and soul behind Plant4Harvest.com. Arthur’s story is deeply rooted in the rich soil of a small American town, where the horizon is wide, and the values of hard work and connection to the land run deep. Born and raised in the quaint town of Elkmont, Alabama, Arthur’s journey in agriculture began in the sprawling fields of his family’s farm, a stone’s throw away from the Tennessee border.

Arthur’s thirst for agricultural knowledge led him to Auburn University, where he majored in Agricultural Science. During his college years, Arthur dedicated his summers to working on local farms, gaining practical experience in modern farming techniques. His academic and real-world experiences combined to give him a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities in American agriculture.

Arthur Cook is more than just a farmer; he is an advocate for sustainable agriculture and a mentor to the next generation of farmers. Through Plant4Harvest.com, he continues to inspire, educate, and engage with a community of individuals who share his love for the land and commitment to preserving it for future generations.