Country Gentleman Sweet Corn on a wood cutting board on a white background.
Cooked and raw Country Gentleman Sweet Corn cobs with extracted kernels and rounds.
Country Gentleman Sweet Corn cobs with a bowl of kernels and rounds on a dark blue background.
A trio of Country Gentleman Sweet Corn cobs arranged on a wood background.
A close-up view of Country Gentleman Sweet Corn pegged kernels on the cob.
Country Gentleman Sweet Corn on a wood cutting board on a white background.
Cooked and raw Country Gentleman Sweet Corn cobs with extracted kernels and rounds.
Country Gentleman Sweet Corn cobs with a bowl of kernels and rounds on a dark blue background.
A trio of Country Gentleman Sweet Corn cobs arranged on a wood background.
A close-up view of Country Gentleman Sweet Corn pegged kernels on the cob.

Corn Seeds,
Country Gentleman Sweet

3.544 Reviews#CN105 · 75 seeds
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Description

(Zea mays) Sweet Corn. Country Gentleman is one of the grand old sweet corns, introduced in 1890 by S.D. Woodruff & Sons and still treasured for both flavor and form. The 8-inch ears are filled with sweet, milky, tender kernels arranged not in rows but in the irregular zigzag pattern that gives shoe peg corn its charm. It remains one of the finest heirloom sweet corns and has even continued in some commercial use for canned corn—a testament to its lasting quality. If you appreciate old varieties with real personality, this one belongs in the patch.

Plant Details

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

Growing Guide

When to Grow

Sow Country Gentleman sweet corn seeds directly outdoors after the last frost date in your area, when the soil temperature reaches at least 60 F. The ideal growing temperature is 75-80 F. Check local frost dates to determine the best planting time for your region. 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 Country Gentleman sweet corn as it does not transplant well. Plant seeds 1-2 inches deep, spaced about 12 inches apart in rows 24-36 inches apart. Thin seedlings to the strongest plant per spacing once they reach a few inches tall to ensure healthy development. Plant in blocks to improve pollination.

How to Grow

Ensure consistent watering, particularly during critical growth stages. Fertilize regularly with a balanced fertilizer or organic compost to support vigorous growth. Weed around the plants to prevent competition for nutrients and water. Applying mulch can help conserve moisture and reduce weed growth. Tall plants may need staking to prevent wind damage.

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 Country Gentleman sweet corn to mature?

It typically takes about 90 days from planting to harvest.

Can I grow Country Gentleman sweet corn in containers?

Due to its size and root depth requirements, it is not recommended to grow Country Gentleman sweet corn in containers.

How can I prevent common pests and diseases?

Practice crop rotation, plant disease-resistant varieties, and use organic pest control methods like neem oil or insecticidal soap.

Browse our full range of corn seeds.

Customer reviews

3.5 / 5 44 Reviews

What gardeners are saying

  • Towering stalks: Plants reach 8 to 12 feet with sturdy, thick bases.

  • Old-time corn flavor: Not candy sweet; pick at milk stage and eat it fresh.

  • Two to three ears: Most stalks set two ears, sometimes three, up to 8 inches.

  • Late to mature: Slow in cool soil and ripens late, often past 90 days.

  • Heads up: Many find it bland or starchy, and some ears fill only halfway.

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