Trio of Martian Jewels Corn on a white background.
A half dozen Martian Jewels Corn cobs on a wooden box against a grey background.
Three Martian Jewels Corn cobs on a purple background.
Martian Jewels Corn cobs standing on end with one cob laying down on a graduated pink background.
Martian Jewels Corn purple and bight green tassels in the corn field at Baker Creek.
Trio of Martian Jewels Corn on a white background.
A half dozen Martian Jewels Corn cobs on a wooden box against a grey background.
Three Martian Jewels Corn cobs on a purple background.
Martian Jewels Corn cobs standing on end with one cob laying down on a graduated pink background.
Martian Jewels Corn purple and bight green tassels in the corn field at Baker Creek.

Corn Seeds,
Martian Jewels

54 Reviews#CN113 · 50 seeds
Price
Regular price $5.00
Regular price $0.00 Sale price $5.00
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Description

(Zea mays) Sweet Corn. Martian Jewels has that strange and lovely combination that makes heirloom corn so irresistible: pale, creamy kernels set against rich purple cobs and husks. Harvest it young and it makes a delicate, lightly sweet corn on the cob. Let it go a little longer and it moves easily into soups, breads, and homestead cooking. Dry it fully and it can be ground into flour—or simply enjoyed as one of the prettiest ornamental ears around. Growing on 6-foot stalks and maturing in 80 to 90 days, it bridges beauty and usefulness in a way that feels very right for a whole-food garden.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Zea mays
Life Cycle
Annual
Sun Requirement
6–8 hr.
Days to Germinate
7–10
Days to Maturity
80–90
Planting Depth
1–2 in.
Plant Spacing
12 in.
Ideal Temperature
60°F
Frost Hardy
No

Growing Guide

When to Grow

Plant Martian Jewels corn well after the last frost date in your area, once the soil has warmed up. This variety is suitable for USDA zones 4 and above, flourishing in regions with warm summers. For specific frost dates, refer to local resources to match your planting schedule to your U.S. zone. 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 Martian Jewels corn seeds when soil temperatures reach about 60 degrees F, after all danger of frost is past. Plant the seeds 1-2 inches deep. Space the plants about 12 inches apart in rows spaced 30-36 inches apart. The ideal growing temperatures are 75-80 F. For optimal pollination, plant corn in blocks of at least four rows rather than a single long row​​. Succession planting prolongs harvest.

How to Grow

Maintain consistent soil moisture throughout the growing season, especially during tasseling and ear development. Apply a balanced fertilizer at planting and side-dress with nitrogen-rich fertilizer as the plants grow. Mulching around the plants can help retain moisture and suppress weeds. Monitor for common pests like corn earworms and aphids, and use organic pest control methods if needed​.

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 Martian Jewels corn?

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

How often should I water Martian Jewels corn?

Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during critical growth stages like tasseling and ear development, but avoid waterlogging.

What pests affect Martian Jewels corn?

Common pests include corn earworms and aphids. Regular monitoring and organic pest control methods are recommended to manage these issues.

Browse our full range of corn seeds.

Customer reviews

5 / 5 4 Reviews

What gardeners are saying

  • Purple all over: Stalks, husks and cobs come in deep purple; kernels stay white.

  • Sweet white corn taste: Eats like a classic white sweet corn.

  • Beginner friendly: First-time corn growers got well-pollinated ears.

  • Grown again: Even prettier in person; gardeners plan to replant it.

More to grow!

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