Growing corn in containers can be a rewarding experience for urban gardeners and those with limited space. With the right techniques and dwarf corn varieties you can enjoy fresh homegrown corn – even on a balcony or patio.
When choosing dwarf corn cultivars for containers, think about things like when the kernels will be ready, how they taste, and how they need to be pollinated. This article talks about the best dwarf and mini corn varieties for gardening in pots.
What is Dwarf Corn?
Dwarf varieties of corn are those that only grow to be about 4 to 5 feet tall. They are bred to be naturally short, so the ears and tassels are closer to the ground than on regular corn, which can grow up to 8 feet tall.
Dwarf corn has shorter internodes (spaces between leaves) and often produces smaller ears. However, the ears still deliver that sweet corn taste we know and love. The compact size makes dwarf corn ideal for containers and small gardens.
Benefits of Dwarf Corn for Containers
Growing dwarf instead of standard corn offers many advantages for container gardening:
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Requires less vertical space to mature Dwarf corn won’t outgrow a pot or balcony railing
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Strong and not likely to fall over: The shorter stalks are less likely to fall over, even on a high-rise balcony when it’s windy.
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Easier to support and stake. Smaller plants don’t need heavy reinforcements.
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Simpler harvesting. The low-hanging ears are readily accessible. No need for step ladders!
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Can yield well in limited space. You can fit multiple dwarf corn plants in containers.
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Less nutrient demands. The petite plants need less soil and fertilizer.
Top Dwarf Corn Varieties for Containers
When selecting dwarf corn, prioritize early-maturing cultivars under 80 days to maturity. This ensures the plants can fully develop before your growing season ends.
Here are top compact corn varieties to try in pots:
1. Early Sunglow (65 days)
A sugar-enhanced dwarf yellow corn. Grows just 4-5 feet tall. Produces 5-6 inch ears with sweet, tender kernels. Does well even in cooler climates.
2. Golden Bantam (75 days)
A heirloom open-pollinated dwarf corn ideal for containers. 3-4 feet tall plants. Ears are 6-7 inches long filled with delicious yellow kernels.
3. Bodacious (72 days)
A popular miniature yellow hybrid corn. Shorter 3-4 feet stalks. 6-8 inch ears. Maintains sweetness longer than other corns.
4. Sweetness (73 days)
A dwarf supersweet yellow hybrid. Grows to around 4 feet. Ears are 6-7 inches long. Tender kernels with enhanced sugar content.
5. Peaches & Cream (80 days)
A beautiful bicolor dwarf corn bearing yellow and white kernels. 4 feet tall plants. 7 inch ears. Super sweet and perfect for small spaces.
Growing Dwarf Corn in Containers
Follow these tips to successfully grow dwarf corn in pots:
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Use large containers at least 12 inches deep. This gives corn roots ample room to spread.
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Choose a sunny location. Corn needs full sun – at least 8 hours a day.
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Use a fertile, well-draining potting mix. Enrich with compost or fertilizer. Corn is a heavy feeder.
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Plant seeds 1-2 inches deep in spring after danger of frost. Space seeds or seedlings 4-6 inches apart in all directions. Corn should be planted in blocks, not rows, for proper pollination.
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Water regularly. Corn needs consistent moisture, especially when tassels and ears are forming. But avoid waterlogging.
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Provide support. Insert stakes around plants or create a grid structure to keep corn upright.
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Harvest when ears are plump and kernels exude milky liquid. Simply twist ears downward to remove.
With the right cultivars and care, dwarf corn can thrive in containers, allowing you to enjoy this classic summer crop regardless of garden space. The compact varieties make corn cultivation accessible for urbanites and small space gardeners.