grass family

Sweetcorn

Zea mays · Moderate

A warm-season block-planted crop whose late-summer clearance creates a useful autumn handover.

Sow

Sow indoors from mid- to late spring; outdoor sowing is possible later in mild areas.

Plant out after frost, usually late May or June, in a block rather than one long row.

August to October, according to variety and summer warmth.

Practical growing notes

Plant spacing: About 35–45 cm in a compact block for pollination.
Light: Full sun in a warm, sheltered position.
Containers: Possible with compact types in a very large container, but ground is more reliable.

Fresh-picked cobs are exceptionally sweet, and a block can hand over to autumn leaves or garlic.

Needs warmth, moisture, fertility and neighbouring plants for reliable pollination.

Keep the bed moving

A quick cool-season leaf crop for spring and autumn, with repeat pickings from small sowings.

A compact peppery leaf crop that can be harvested repeatedly and grows well in containers.

A low-maintenance overwintering crop planted as named, disease-free cloves.

A hardy bean that provides an early harvest and can free a bed in time for summer crops.