Corn Seeds, Northern Lights
Corn Seeds, Northern Lights
A close-up macro view of Northern Lights Corn kernels on a cob.
Close-up Macro view of several Northern Lights Corn cobs.
A single cob of Northern Lights Corn on a white background.
A quasi close-up of several colorful Northern Lights Corn cobs.
A bountiful harvest of Northern Lights Corn cobs with some cobs arranged in a basket.
Close-up view of several Northern Lights Corn, showcasing the colorful kernels.
Corn Seeds, Northern Lights
Corn Seeds, Northern Lights
A close-up macro view of Northern Lights Corn kernels on a cob.
Close-up Macro view of several Northern Lights Corn cobs.
A single cob of Northern Lights Corn on a white background.
A quasi close-up of several colorful Northern Lights Corn cobs.
A bountiful harvest of Northern Lights Corn cobs with some cobs arranged in a basket.
Close-up view of several Northern Lights Corn, showcasing the colorful kernels.

Corn Seeds,
Northern Lights

51 Review#CN115 · 50 seeds
Price
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Description

(Zea mays). Flint corn. The first impression is color—an artful, watercolor palette spread across each ear. Northern Lights is a flint corn bred by Ed Schultz to stand up to cold nights and short growing seasons, just like his other Montana selections. The plants reach four to five feet tall, maturing six- to eight-inch ears that combine rugged performance with unexpected beauty. It is a corn shaped by climate, but remembered for its color.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Zea mays
Life Cycle
Annual
Sun Requirement
6–8 hr.
Days to Germinate
7–10
Days to Maturity
100–110
Planting Depth
1–1 ½ in.
Plant Spacing
8–12 in.
Ideal Temperature
65–85°F
Frost Hardy
No

Growing Guide

When to Grow

Plant Northern Lights corn seeds outdoors in late spring, after the last frost date, when soil temperatures have warmed to at least 60°F. In cooler climates, consider using black plastic mulch to warm the soil before planting. 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 to 1.5 inches deep in rows spaced 30–36 inches apart. Plant seeds 8 to 12 inches apart within the row. For optimal pollination, plant in blocks of at least four rows rather than single rows. Thin seedlings to the strongest plant per spacing after emergence.

How to Grow

Maintain consistent soil moisture, especially during tasseling and ear development. Fertilize with a nitrogen-rich organic fertilizer when plants are knee-high and again when they begin to tassel. Hill soil around the base of plants to provide support and prevent lodging. Monitor for pests and diseases regularly.

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 in an airtight container.

FAQ

Is Northern Lights corn edible?

Yes, Northern Lights corn is edible. As a flint corn, it has hard kernels suitable for grinding into cornmeal or making hominy. It's not typically eaten fresh like sweet corn.

Can I grow Northern Lights corn in containers?

Growing Northern Lights corn in containers is challenging due to its height and pollination needs. If attempting, use large, deep containers and plant in blocks to facilitate pollination.

Why are my Northern Lights corn kernels not developing properly?

Poor kernel development often results from inadequate pollination. Ensure plants are grown in blocks rather than single rows to enhance wind pollination. Hand-pollination can also improve kernel set.

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Customer reviews

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