Ears of Glass Gem Popping Corn on a white background.
A close-up of Glass Gem Popping Corn kernels.
Four colorful Glass Gem Popping Corn on the cob with marbles on a white background.
A close-up of Glass Gem Popping Corn kernels on the cob. Image courtesy of Lucy Hutchins.
Eight cobs of Glass Gem Popping Corn leaning against a white wall.
A close-up view of three colorful Glass Gem Popping Corn cobs.
A half dozen Glass Gem Popping Corn cobs on a white background.
Three cobs of Glass Gem Popping Corn with bright colored kernels.
Ears of Glass Gem Popping Corn on a white background.
A close-up of Glass Gem Popping Corn kernels.
Four colorful Glass Gem Popping Corn on the cob with marbles on a white background.
A close-up of Glass Gem Popping Corn kernels on the cob. Image courtesy of Lucy Hutchins.
Eight cobs of Glass Gem Popping Corn leaning against a white wall.
A close-up view of three colorful Glass Gem Popping Corn cobs.
A half dozen Glass Gem Popping Corn cobs on a white background.
Three cobs of Glass Gem Popping Corn with bright colored kernels.

Corn Seeds,
Glass Gem Popping

4.1101 ReviewsSKU: #CN162Min. seed count: 75
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Description

(Zea mays) Popcorn. Amazing color! Indescribably beautiful flint or popcorn comes in an endless range of colors. The translucent kernels really do shine brilliantly like glass—on the cob they resemble strands of glass beads! The 3- to 8-inch ears are consummately decorative, but edible and delicious as well. Makes firm little morsels when popped; can also be parched, ground into meal, and more. Sturdy plants reach to 9 feet tall and throw numerous sideshoots where the season is long enough. Bred from a number of Native varieties by Carl Barnes, the famous Oklahoma corn collector to whom we owe our gratitude for his life's work of collecting, preserving, and sharing so many Native corn varieties.

Growing Tips: When growing Glass Gem popcorn, ensure that the soil is well-drained and has a pH between 6.0 and 6.8. This variety of corn thrives in full sunlight and requires consistent moisture, especially during critical growth stages such as silking and tasseling. Maintaining a regular watering schedule is crucial for optimal growth.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Zea mays
Life Cycle
Annual
Sun Requirement
Full sun
Days to Germinate
7–10
Days to Maturity
105
Planting Depth
1–2 in.
Plant Spacing
12 in.
Ideal Temperature
60°F
Frost Hardy
No

When to Grow

Sow Glass Gem corn seeds directly outdoors when soil temperatures reach about 60 degrees F, after all danger of frost is past. This corn requires about 105 days to mature, with sprouts forming in 7-10 days. The ideal growing temperature is 75-80 F. In cooler climates, black plastic can be used to warm the soil before planting​. 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

Direct sowing is recommended for Glass Gem corn. Plant seeds 1 to 2 inches deep, spaced 3 to 4 inches apart, in rows 24 to 30 inches apart. Thin seedlings to 12 inches apart once they are a few inches tall. Planting in blocks of at least four rows ensures better pollination, as corn relies on wind to spread pollen. Ensure good soil fertility by adding compost and nitrogen-rich fertilizers during planting​​.

How to Grow

Keep the soil moist and free from weeds, using mulch if necessary to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Monitoring soil moisture levels and applying water consistently will help ensure healthy growth. Diseases such as common smut and leaf rust can be mitigated by ensuring good air circulation and practicing crop rotation​​.

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

How long does it take for Glass Gem Popping corn to mature?

It typically takes around 105 days from planting to harvest.

How do I prevent cross-pollination with other corn varieties?

To avoid cross-pollination, do not plant within one mile of other varieties, or stagger planting times so that they tassel at different periods.

What are the ideal growing conditions for Glass Gem Popping corn?

This variety thrives in well-drained, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.8. It also requires full sun and a consistent supply of water throughout the growing season.

Browse our full range of corn seeds.

Customer reviews

4.1 / 5 101 Reviews

What gardeners are saying

  • Jewel-colored ears: Every ear opens to a different mix of colors; no two alike.

  • Kids love it: Shucking each ear is like opening a present; a favorite with kids.

  • Strong germination: Nearly every seed came up; stalks reach 7 to 12 feet.

  • Small popcorn: Pops small and crunchy if dried well; also grinds into cornmeal.

  • Heads up: Ears are small and slow to mature; give it a long, warm season.

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