Corn Seeds, Montana Cudu
Montana Cudu corn standing on end.
Montana Cudu Corn stack with dried husk.
Corn Seeds, Montana Cudu
Corn Seeds, Montana Cudu
Montana Cudu corn standing on end.
Montana Cudu Corn stack with dried husk.
Corn Seeds, Montana Cudu

Corn Seeds,
Montana Cudu

4.18 ReviewsSKU: #CN188Min. seed count: 75
Price
Regular price $5.00
Regular price $0.00 Sale price $5.00
Save $-5
/
FREE SHIPPING IN THE U.S.A.
Faster shipping options also available.
Description

(Zea mays) Flour Corn. A beautiful spotted variety that is descended from a historic Native American variety. Ed Schultz, renowned corn breeder from Montana, has worked to adapt a blended corn as a tribute to a sacred Native American variety. Cudu corn is said to be an ancient native American variety used for sacred ritual. A sample of seeds was donated to the USDA seed bank by Oscar Will in 1958. The original donated seed may have been accidentally inbred or crossed, as the cobs were stunted and short, and kernels had begun to lose their signature blue eagle marking. Ed is a far northern grower who has worked to create beautiful and early-maturing corns like Atomic Orange and the Papa's corn. He received a sample of seeds from the USDA and has worked for over five years to adapt it to his northern region and to create longer cobs. He reports that this variety has long, slender ears and beautiful blue-spotted kernels. To achieve this variety, he bred true Cudu corn with a small percentage of Papa's White corn.

Growing Tips: Montana Cudu corn thrives in well-drained, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.8. It prefers full sun and benefits from soil enriched with compost or well-rotted manure. Regular watering is crucial, especially during tasseling and ear development. Planting in blocks rather than single rows ensures good pollination.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Zea mays
Life Cycle
Annual
Sun Requirement
Full sun
Days to Germinate
7–10
Days to Maturity
85–90
Planting Depth
1–2 in.
Plant Spacing
12 in.
Ideal Temperature
60°F
Frost Hardy
No

When to Grow

Plant Montana Cudu corn when soil temperatures reach about 60 degrees F, after all danger of frost is past. The ideal temperature for optimal growth is 75-80 F. This variety is suitable for USDA zones 4 and above. Refer to local frost dates for accurate planting times. 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 sow Montana Cudu corn seeds 1-2 inches deep and six inches apart in rows spaced 30-36 inches apart. Ensure soil is warm for optimal germination. Thin seedlings to 12 inches apart once they reach about 5 inches tall. Planting in blocks of four or more rows enhances pollination and growth. Succession planting prolongs harvest.

How to Grow

Maintain consistent soil moisture throughout the growing season, providing 1-2 inches of water per week. Fertilize with a balanced 10-10-10 NPK fertilizer every two to three weeks before the silks emerge, and again when the silks appear. Regularly weed the area and mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Hill soil around the plants when they are knee-high to provide support and nutrients.

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

When should I plant Montana Cudu corn?

Plant when soil temperatures reach about 60 degrees F, after all danger of frost is past.

How often should I water Montana Cudu corn?

Maintain consistent soil moisture, providing 1-2 inches of water per week, especially during tasseling and ear development.

What pests affect Montana Cudu corn?

Common pests include corn earworms and aphids. Regular monitoring and using organic pest control methods can help manage these issues.

Can I plant Montana Cudu corn near sweet corn?

No, avoid planting Montana Cudu corn near any other corn to prevent cross-pollination, which can reduce the quality of both crops.

Browse our full range of corn seeds.

Customer reviews

4.1 / 5 8 Reviews

What gardeners are saying

  • Eagle-marked kernels: White ears with blue eagle markings; kernels like gems.

  • Easy to grind: Flour corn that mills by hand for cornbread, grits and meal.

  • Drought hardy: Held up through heat and drought and still filled fat ears.

  • Little fuss: Grew with no babying; just plant and water now and then.

  • Heads up: Crosses with nearby corn; ear tips may get bugs or rot in damp.

You may also like