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 selecting dwarf corn cultivars for containers, consider factors like maturity time, kernel flavor, and pollination needs. This guide covers the top dwarf and mini corn varieties perfect for container gardening.
What is Dwarf Corn?
Corn plants that only grow to a maximum height of 4-5 feet are considered dwarf varieties. They are bred to have a naturally short stature, with the tassels and ears closer to the ground compared to standard corn that can reach 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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Sturdy, won’t fall over easily The shorter stalks are less prone to toppling, even in windy conditions on a high-rise balcony
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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.
Deep blue kernels taste as good as they look.
Selected for its low-growing habit, its gorgeous blue-grey color, and its sweetness for fresh eating, Blue Jade exemplifies the diversity of open-pollinated seeds; its also one of the best sweet corns we have tasted.
The kernels turn from white to steel blue when ripe; for peak sweetness, harvest just as they turn blue, while there is still a hint of light-yellow in the kernels. They become deeper blue when cooked.
Each dwarf plant grows to only 48″ in height and yields about two ears each; the cobs are about half the size of a standard ear of sweet corn.
| Unit | Price | Quantity | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| 50 Seeds | $3,89 | In Stock | |
| 50 seeds | Art Pack | $4,32 | In Stock | |
| 150 Seeds | $7,18 | In Stock | |
| 500 Seeds | $17,31 | In Stock |
Dwarf Blue Jade Corn review
FAQ
What is the best dwarf corn varieties for containers?
Varieties like ‘Dwarf Simon’ or ‘Dwarf Early Sunglow’ are perfect for small spaces, as they grow to a manageable size without sacrificing the quality of the corn. Sweet Corn: Sweet corn is a popular choice for its sugary, tender kernels. Varieties like ‘Sweetness’ or ‘Honey and Cream’ are well-suited for containers.
How many corn plants can you grow in a 5 gallon bucket?
You can grow one to three corn stalks in a 5-gallon bucket, depending on the size of the bucket and how much space you provide for each plant.
Does corn grow well in containers?
Everyone loves summer sweet corn, but can you grow it in a small space, like a patio pot? Yes, you can! You always have to grow more than one plant to get edible ears (read on to find out about pollination), but even a few stalks in a container can produce a yummy treat if you know a few simple tricks.
How tall does dwarf corn get?
Dwarf corn hybrids average between 65 and 70 inches in height, with ear placement occurring at the 40-inch mark or higher on the plant.