How to Grow Strawberry Corn
Strawberry Corn
Zea mays var. indurata
vegetableStrawberry corn is a unique ornamental and specialty corn variety with deep red or burgundy kernels that resemble strawberries in color and sometimes texture. It is primarily grown for decorative purposes, dried corn arrangements, and specialty food uses, though the kernels can be ground into flour or popped. This heirloom variety is prized by gardeners for its striking appearance and cultural/historical significance.
When should you plant Strawberry Corn in your zone?
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Example Strawberry Corn timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Strawberry Corn
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Strawberry Corn
Around Jul 16≈ 90 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Strawberry Corn dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Zones 4-8 are ideal; can be grown in zones 3-9 with proper timing
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Seedling
2-3 weeksCorn emerges as a single shoot with two narrow leaves (cotyledons). Plants are 2-4 inches tall with a delicate appearance.
Ensure consistent soil moisture. Thin seedlings to proper spacing (8 inches apart) within 2-3 weeks. Remove weeds carefully to avoid damaging shallow roots.
Vegetative Growth
3-4 weeksRapid leaf development with 4-8 leaves visible. Plant grows 6-12 inches tall. Root system expands significantly.
Water deeply and consistently. Apply balanced fertilizer when plants are 12 inches tall. Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Monitor for early pest issues.
Flowering & Tassel Development
2-3 weeksPlant reaches 4-6 feet tall. Male tassel emerges at top; female silks appear on developing ears. Pollen production begins.
Maintain consistent watering; this is a critical period. Side-dress with nitrogen fertilizer if growth seems slow. Ensure adequate pollination by maintaining plant diversity or gently shaking tassels on calm mornings.
Kernel Development & Maturity
3-4 weeksEars fill with developing kernels. Silks brown and dry. Kernels gradually turn from lighter to deep red/burgundy. Husks dry and pale.
Reduce watering gradually as kernels mature. Watch for pest damage on developing ears. Allow ears to remain on the stalk to fully mature and dry.
Harvest & Drying
2-4 weeksKernels reach full color (deep red/burgundy). Husks are papery and dry. Stalks begin to brown and dry down.
Leave ears on the stalk to dry naturally for 2-3 weeks after kernels reach full maturity. Harvest when husks are completely dry and kernels are hard. Store in cool, dry location.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Plant trap crops like sorghum; use Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) sprays; remove and destroy infested plant material; ensure good air circulation; clean up crop debris
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Hand-pick affected ears; apply Bt sprays targeting early instars; use pheromone traps; plant marigolds and other trap crops nearby; encourage natural predators
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Use Bt sprays; hand-pick caterpillars; encourage predatory insects; maintain proper plant spacing for air circulation
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Create cutworm collars around seedlings using toilet paper tubes; remove weeds where cutworms hide; water at soil level rather than foliage; hand-pick at night
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Remove and destroy infected ears immediately; avoid overhead watering; ensure good air circulation; plant resistant varieties if available; do not compost infected material
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Spray with water to dislodge; use insecticidal soap; encourage ladybugs and lacewings; avoid excessive nitrogen fertilizer
Uses
Decorative & Holiday Displays
CraftStrawberry corn's distinctive deep red kernels and unique appearance make it a popular choice for fall and holiday decorations, corn husks wreaths, harvest centerpieces, and dried arrangements. [source]
Specialty Flour & Cornmeal
CulinaryThe kernels can be dried and ground into a distinctive reddish cornmeal or flour for specialty baking, polenta, and traditional dishes. The color adds visual interest to corn-based recipes. [source]
Popcorn & Specialty Food
CulinaryStrawberry corn kernels can be popped like popcorn, producing unique reddish popcorn. Some specialty growers market it as a novelty snack or ingredient for gourmet food applications. [source]
Biodegradable Packing Material
HouseholdDried strawberry corn cobs and husks can be used as sustainable, biodegradable packing material, animal bedding, or mulch. [source]
Wildlife & Bird Food
WildlifeMature ears left unharvested provide food for birds and other wildlife during fall and winter. The kernels are nutritious for squirrels, birds, and deer. [source]
Harvest Tips
Harvest strawberry corn in late fall after kernels reach full deep red/burgundy color and have hardened. Leave ears on the stalk to dry naturally for 2-3 weeks after maturity—this is essential for decorative use and for storing as whole ears. For dried kernels, allow ears to dry completely, then remove kernels by hand or rubbing ears together. Store in a cool, dry place (50-65°F, 30-40% humidity) in mesh bags or breathable containers. Check periodically for moisture and mold. Properly dried strawberry corn can be stored for 1-2 years.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Strawberry corn is an heirloom variety with a rich cultural history, particularly in Native American agriculture, where red and burgundy corn varieties held ceremonial significance.
- 🌱 The distinctive deep red color of strawberry corn kernels comes from high levels of anthocyanin pigments, the same antioxidants found in actual strawberries and blueberries.
- 🌱 Strawberry corn is an excellent choice for corn mazes, fall festivals, and decorative displays because the kernels remain vibrant and hard for months when properly dried, unlike sweet corn which must be eaten fresh.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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