Corn Seeds, Orchard Baby Sweet
Orchard Baby Corn extracted kernels.
Corn Seeds, Orchard Baby Sweet
Orchard Baby Corn with penny for size reference.
Trio of Orchard Baby Corn cobs being cradled in hands.
Corn Seeds, Orchard Baby Sweet
Orchard Baby Corn extracted kernels.
Corn Seeds, Orchard Baby Sweet
Orchard Baby Corn with penny for size reference.
Trio of Orchard Baby Corn cobs being cradled in hands.

Corn Seeds,
Orchard Baby Sweet

4.720 ReviewsSKU: #CN185Min. seed count: 75
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Description

(Zea mays) A supremely early-maturing sweet corn with delicious flavor. This compact variety was bred in Canada and offered by the North Dakota seed company Oscar H. Will and Company in the 1940s. A perfect choice for limited garden space or growing in containers. The stalks stand just 3 to 5 feet tall, bearing 2 ears each. Kernels are sweet and yellow with classic sweet corn flavor.

Growing Tips: Orchard Baby sweet corn is a compact and early-maturing variety. It thrives in full sun and rich, well-drained soil with a pH between 5.5 and 7.0. To prepare the soil, mix in plenty of compost or well-rotted manure to a depth of about 10 inches. Corn plants need consistent moisture, especially during hot, dry weather, so regular watering is essential.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Zea mays
Life Cycle
Annual
Sun Requirement
Full sun
Days to Germinate
7–10
Days to Maturity
65
Planting Depth
1–2 in.
Plant Spacing
9 in.
Ideal Temperature
60°F
Frost Hardy
No

When to Grow

Plant Orchard Baby sweet corn into the richest soil available when soil temperatures reach about 60 degrees F, after all danger of frost is past. This variety requires about 65 days to mature, with sprouts forming in 7-10 days. If you live in a region with a short growing season, consider starting the seeds indoors 2-3 weeks before transplanting them outside once the danger of frost has passed. The perfect temperature for optimal growth is 75-80 F. 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

To sow Orchard Baby sweet corn, start by soaking the seeds overnight in water to encourage germination. Plant the seeds 1-2 inches deep. Space the plants about 12 inches apart in rows spaced 30-36 inches apart. For better pollination and yield, plant the corn in blocks rather than single rows. If growing in containers, ensure each plant has enough space and that containers are placed in a sunny location​. Succession planting prolongs harvest.

How to Grow

Corn is a heavy feeder and benefits from nitrogen-rich fertilizers. Apply a balanced fertilizer (such as 10-5-5) every 3 weeks during the growing season. Mulching around the plants can help retain moisture and control weeds. Regular weeding is important to prevent competition for nutrients. Water consistently, especially during tasseling and ear development​.

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 often should I water Orchard Baby sweet corn?

Water the plants regularly, ensuring the soil remains moist but not waterlogged. During hot weather, daily watering may be necessary.

What are the common pests and diseases for Orchard Baby sweet corn?

Common pests include corn earworm, cutworms on young plants, and raccoons or birds as the ears fill. For earworm, put a few drops of mineral oil or a clothespin on the silk after pollination, and pick the ears at the milk stage while the silks are brown and dry. Regular monitoring and organic pest control methods are recommended.

Can I grow Orchard Baby sweet corn in containers?

Yes, this variety is well-suited for container growing due to its compact size. Ensure the containers are large enough to support root growth and placed in a sunny spot. Regular watering and fertilization are crucial.

Browse our full range of corn seeds.

Customer reviews

4.7 / 5 20 Reviews

What gardeners are saying

  • Compact plants: Stalks about 3 feet; fits raised beds, containers, small plots.

  • Fast to mature: Ears ready in roughly 60 to 70 days; check them early.

  • Snack-size ears: Two or three snack-size ears per stalk; plan on several per serving.

  • Sweet and tender: Most find the little ears sweet and tender, raw or cooked.

  • Heads up: Some find it less sweet than hoped; pick at the milk stage.

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