Several Atomic Orange corn stalks arranged on a white background.
A woman in striped overalls holding an armful of Atomic Orange Corn cobs.
Atomic Orange Corn cobs stacked up on the back of truck bed.
Atomic Orange Corn kernels held in dirty hand.
Dried Atomic Orange Corn cobs braided together and hanging in the restaurant.
Five Atomic Orange Corn cobs arranged on patina copper background.
Several Atomic Orange corn stalks arranged on a white background.
A woman in striped overalls holding an armful of Atomic Orange Corn cobs.
Atomic Orange Corn cobs stacked up on the back of truck bed.
Atomic Orange Corn kernels held in dirty hand.
Dried Atomic Orange Corn cobs braided together and hanging in the restaurant.
Five Atomic Orange Corn cobs arranged on patina copper background.

Corn Seeds,
Atomic Orange

4.517 ReviewsSKU: #CN186
Price
Regular price $5.00
Regular price $0.00 Sale price $5.00
Save $-5
/

Min. 75 seeds

FREE U.S. SHIPPING2-YEAR GUARANTEE

Description

(Zea mays) Flint Corn. Exceptionally high in both protein and beta-carotene, the amazingly nutritious and totally delicious orange ears are produced very early. This variety ranked high on the list of most protein-rich heirloom corns in a study done by Baker Creek in 2018. Research shows that beta-carotene is essential for vision health. We are thrilled to offer this stunning, open-pollinated variety from the gifted corn breeder Ed Schultz of Bozeman, Montana. He spent 30 years developing this fantastic soft flint corn. It sports a range of orange color, from brilliant sunburst orange to pumpkin and russet; even the cobs are orange! For an added surprise, it will throw an occasional all-white ear. Three to five foot-tall stalks produce 1 to 2 ten-inch ears with 8 rows of kernels in about 60 days.

Growing Tips: Atomic Orange corn thrives in full sun and prefers well-drained soil. It is essential to maintain moderate moisture levels throughout its growing period. This corn variety, with its striking orange kernels, matures in 60-80 days, making it suitable for regions with shorter growing seasons. The optimal soil temperature for germination is between 75-80 F.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Zea mays
Life Cycle
Annual
Sun Requirement
Full sun
Days to Germinate
7–10
Days to Maturity
60–80
Planting Depth
1–2 in.
Plant Spacing
12 in.
Ideal Temperature
60°F
Frost Hardy
No

Growing Guide

When to Grow

Plant Atomic Orange corn when soil temperatures reach about 60 degrees F, after all danger of frost is past.. This variety performs well when planted in succession every 2-3 weeks, which can extend your harvest period and increase yield. If you're unsure of your local frost dates, refer to a gardening zone map or local agricultural extension service for guidance​. If you’re not sure how to find your first and last frost dates, consult our blog post 'Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.'

How to Sow and Plant

Sow seeds 1-2 inches deep and space plants 12 inches apart within rows that are 36 inches apart. To ensure good pollination, plant corn in blocks of at least five rows rather than in single rows. This planting method helps in achieving well-filled ears by facilitating better pollen distribution​. Sprouts form in 7-10 days.

How to Grow

Atomic Orange corn requires consistent watering, especially during dry periods. Mulching can help retain soil moisture and regulate temperature. This variety grows to a height of 3-5 feet and produces one to two ears per stalk. Regular weeding and monitoring for pests will support healthy growth. Harvesting typically occurs in late summer when the kernels are fully developed​.

How to Save Seeds

  • Corn is wind pollinated and will easily cross with other varieties (including GMO corn!). You will need at least 1 mile of isolation to avoid cross pollination. You can also use staggered timing or caging techniques.
  • Hand pick ears when fully dried on stalk. Seeds keep best if left on the ear; just remove at planting time.
  • Sweet corn seeds will remain viable for 2 years; dent corn will last up to 5 years when properly stored.

FAQ

What are the ideal growing conditions for Atomic Orange corn?

Full sun, well-drained soil, and consistent moisture levels are ideal. Temperatures should be kept between 75-80 F for optimal germination.

How should I space Atomic Orange corn plants?

Sow seeds 1-2 inches deep, space plants 12 inches apart within rows that are 36 inches apart, and plant in blocks of at least five rows to ensure good pollination.

How long does it take for Atomic Orange corn to mature?

It takes about 60-80 days to reach maturity, making it suitable for shorter growing seasons.

Browse our full range of corn seeds.

Customer reviews

4.5 / 5 17 Reviews

What gardeners are saying

  • Fast and early: Shoots up quickly and matures ahead of other corns.

  • Sunset-colored ears: Dries to shades of orange, copper, and red; great for decor.

  • Cornmeal and cornbread: Grinds into a fine cornmeal for colorful cornbread.

  • Handles dry summers: Produced with little watering through hot, dry seasons.

  • Heads up: Ears can be short, often one per stalk; a few report weak stalks.

More to grow!
See all All Seeds Products