Corn Seeds,
Oaxacan Green

423 ReviewsSKU: #CN147Min. seed count: 50
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Description

(Zea mays) Dent/Flour Corn. The stunningly beautiful ears come in a range of greens, from yellow-green through emerald, with every imaginable shade in between. The deeply dented kernels have been used for centuries by the Zapotec people to make a regional favorite, green-flour tamales. Also makes excellent cornbread! The 6- to 10-inch ears are superb in arrangements and for fall decoration. Plants are very drought tolerant and perform well even at higher latitudes. Amazing and cool!

Growing Tips: Oaxacan Green corn thrives in well-drained soils, preferring sandy loam to clay loam. It's essential to prepare the soil with organic matter, such as compost, to enhance fertility and moisture retention. This variety requires full sun and consistent moisture, about 1 inch of water per week. Mulching can help maintain soil moisture and suppress weeds. Fertilizing with a balanced organic fertilizer or compost at planting and again as the plants grow will promote healthy development.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Zea mays
Life Cycle
Annual
Sun Requirement
6–12 hr.
Days to Germinate
7–10
Days to Maturity
85–100
Planting Depth
1–2 in.
Plant Spacing
12 in.
Ideal Temperature
60°F
Frost Hardy
No

When to Grow

Plant Oaxacan Green corn seeds directly in the garden when soil temperatures reach about 60 degrees F, after all danger of frost is past. Depending on your local climate and USDA zone, this typically means late spring to early summer. Ensuring the soil is warm enough is crucial for successful germination​. Succession planting prolongs harvest. 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. Space the plants about 12 inches apart in rows that are 30-36 inches apart. For optimal pollination, plant corn in blocks of several short rows rather than single long rows. After sowing, keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Corn has shallow roots, so careful weeding and mulching can help protect the root system and retain moisture​.

How to Grow

As the plants grow, apply a nitrogen-rich fertilizer such as fish emulsion or blood meal to support their development. Regularly inspect for pests like corn borers and employ natural pest control methods if needed. Use row covers or erect barriers to protect against pests and wildlife. Staking the plants can help support them against strong winds. Weed control is vital; use hand-pulling, hoeing, or mulching to keep the area around the corn free of weeds​.

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

Questions?

Browse our full range of corn seeds.

Customer reviews

4 / 5 23 Reviews

What gardeners are saying

  • Striking green ears: Kernels dry to deep green, blue and even metallic shades.

  • Fine flour corn: Grinds into excellent flour for tortillas, masa and cornbread.

  • Two ears per stalk: Most stalks carry 2 to 3 ears on plants 6 to 10 feet tall.

  • Vigorous grower: Fast, strong growth in poor soil, wind, wet or dry years.

  • Heads up: Wildlife loves it, and ears can run short at 5 to 6 inches.

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