Strawberry Corn

10 Seeds

Strawberry Corn is a small-eared ornamental corn variety with attractive red to burgundy kernels. It is mainly grown for decoration, crafts, and dried arrangements rather than as a typical sweet corn. In the Gulf, it performs best during the cooler growing season and should be protected from extreme summer heat.

🌱 Best Growing Season in the Gulf

• Best sowing time: September–November.
• A second sowing can be made during January–February where winter temperatures remain mild.
• Avoid: June–August because extreme heat can interfere with pollination and grain development.
• Best soil temperature for germination: 18–30°C.

🌿 Seed Sowing

1. Choose a sunny location with fertile, well-drained soil.
2. Sow seeds directly into the soil.
3. Plant seeds approximately 3–5 cm deep.
4. Space plants 20–30 cm apart.
5. Leave 60–75 cm between rows.
6. Water thoroughly after sowing.
7. Keep the soil evenly moist until seedlings are established.

⏱ Germination

• Seeds generally germinate within 5–10 days under suitable conditions.
• Keep the soil moist but never waterlogged.
• Provide plenty of sunlight after seedlings emerge.

🌱 Growing & Care

• Sunlight: 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
• Soil: Fertile, loose, well-drained soil enriched with compost or organic matter.
• Watering: Water regularly, especially during tasseling, flowering, and ear formation.
• Fertilizing: Apply a nitrogen-rich fertilizer during early growth, followed by a balanced fertilizer as the plants develop.
• Use mulch around the plants to reduce evaporation and keep the root zone cooler.

🌽 Pollination

• Plant in a block or several short rows rather than a single row.
• Good grouping improves wind pollination and helps produce well-developed ears.
• Avoid planting only a few isolated plants.

🌾 Harvest

• Allow the ears to remain on the plant until the husks and kernels are completely mature and dry.
• Harvest when the kernels have developed their characteristic red or burgundy color.
• Dry the ears thoroughly in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place.
• Strawberry Corn is particularly attractive for decorative displays, crafts, dried arrangements, and ornamental use.

🌡 Gulf Climate Tips

• Grow during the cooler months rather than peak summer.
• Provide light afternoon shade to young plants during unusually hot periods.
• Use drip irrigation to maintain consistent moisture efficiently.
• Water early in the morning to reduce evaporation.
• Protect young plants from strong, hot, dry winds.
• Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root problems.