Golden Bantam 12-Row with butter on a white background.
Golden Bantam Corn on plate with melting butter.
Close-up Golden Bantam Corn
Corn Seeds, Golden Bantam 12-Row
Golden Bantam 12-Row with butter on a white background.
Golden Bantam Corn on plate with melting butter.
Close-up Golden Bantam Corn
Corn Seeds, Golden Bantam 12-Row

Corn Seeds,
Golden Bantam 12-Row

3.921 ReviewsSKU: #CN143Min. seed count: 75
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Description

(Zea mays) Sweet Corn. Released in 1922 by the Clark Seed Company of Milford, Connecticut. Although developed from the original Golden Bantam, this is definitely an improved type—larger ears mean higher yields, and the golden yellow corn stays tender longer. Equally suitable for freezing and fresh eating, this variety was for decades the standard for home and market gardeners

Growing Tips: Choose a sunny location in your garden, as corn requires full sun for optimal growth. Consistent moisture is crucial, especially during dry spells; aim to provide about 1 inch of water per week. Mulching around the plants can help retain moisture and suppress weeds. Since corn is a heavy feeder, you can apply a balanced fertilizer (such as 10-10-10). Regular monitoring for pests, such as corn earworms and aphids, is necessary, and organic pest control methods can be used if needed.

Plant Details

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

When to Grow

Golden Bantam corn should be planted into the richest soil available when soil temperatures reach about 60 degrees F, after all danger of frost is past. This variety thrives in warm conditions and requires a long growing season to reach maturity. Depending on your USDA zone, the ideal planting times will vary. For example, in zones 3-6, you might plant in late May to early June, while in warmer zones 7-10, planting can occur as early as April​. 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 Golden Bantam corn seeds directly into the ground once the soil has warmed up. Plant seeds 1-2 inches deep, spacing them about 12 inches apart in rows that are 30-36 inches apart. For better pollination, plant corn in blocks of at least four rows rather than in single rows. Corn does not transplant well, so direct sowing is recommended. Ensure the soil is kept consistently moist during germination, which typically occurs in 7-10 days​​.

How to Grow

Once the corn plants emerge, maintain even moisture and carefully weed around the plants, as corn competes poorly with weeds. Corn has shallow roots, so avoid disturbing the soil too deeply. Adding compost or additional organic matter during the growing season can support the heavy nutrient needs of the plants. Corn is wind-pollinated, so planting in blocks will enhance pollination. Hand-pollination can also be done by gently shaking the tassels to release pollen onto the silks.

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 can I tell when Golden Bantam corn is ready to harvest?

The ears are ready for harvest when the silks turn brown and dry, and the kernels are plump and produce a milky substance when pierced. This typically happens around 20 days after the silks first appear.

Can Golden Bantam corn be grown in containers?

Yes, but it requires a large container, such as a half wine barrel, due to its size and need for adequate soil volume to support growth.

What pests should I watch out for when growing Golden Bantam corn?

Common pests include corn earworms and aphids. Regular monitoring and the use of organic pest control methods, such as neem oil or insecticidal soap, can help manage these pests.

Browse our full range of corn seeds.

Customer reviews

3.9 / 5 21 Reviews

What gardeners are saying

  • Multiple ears per stalk: Full ears up to a foot long, two or three to a stalk.

  • Tall, sturdy stalks: Stalks reach 8 to 12 feet; some lean after heavy rain.

  • Handles heat and drought: Kept going through drought and 100-degree days when watered.

  • Old-fashioned corn flavor: Meaty and mildly sweet, not a supersweet; freezes well.

  • Heads up: Pick on time or kernels toughen; a few saw corn smut.

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