The question of “How best to save these seeds for the next season” always worries those who grow corn. Therefore, it is necessary to understand how to save corn seeds and this will allow you not only to save your favorite variety, but also to ensure a good harvest every year. Today we will study simple steps for saving corn seeds, no matter which one – sweet or some rare variety.
Basics. Why it is important to save corn seeds
When we were just taking our first steps in gardening, we didn’t think much about saving seeds. But over time, as we became more and more interested in our favorite hobby, we realized the need to save seeds, especially for a crop like corn. Understanding how to save corn for seeds allows you to eventually cultivate plants that are best suited for your garden. And by the way, this is a great way to save money and maintain productive gardening.
Here’s how saving corn seeds can help your farm:
- Savings. There is no need to buy seeds every year.
- Adaptation. Plants increasingly adapt to local conditions.
- Resilience. An important factor in gardening. You personally control the quality of your seeds.
As you know, corn is wind-pollinated. This means that you need to choose the right corn variety and make sure that it is not pollinated by other varieties growing nearby. Otherwise, the result may be unpredictable.
How to Save Corn Seeds. Step-by-Step Guide
1. Choose the Right Corn Variety for Saving Seeds
The first and most important rule is to choose open-pollinated corn varieties that can reliably grow from seed. This is important because hybrid varieties (often found in stores) do not retain their qualities. If you decide to save hybrid corn seeds, you may unexpectedly get completely different plants the next season. So, for how to save corn seed, choose old, proven, open-pollinated varieties such as Golden Bantam or Painted Mountain.
2. Let the corn fully mature
For how to save sweet corn seeds, you need to let the ears mature before they are usually harvested for eating. Of course, we all usually like to pick sweet corn when it is juicy and tender. But saving seeds requires patience, so leave the ears on the stalks until they dry naturally. The kernels should be firm and the husks should be dry, brown and papery. This process usually takes a few weeks after harvest.
Tip. We always leave a few of the strongest corn plants in the garden specifically for seed saving. This ensures that the seeds are of the best quality.
3. Collecting cobs to save seeds
As soon as the corn is fully ripe and dry on the stalks, you need to carefully collect the cobs. And you need to do this before the first frost. Frost can spoil the seeds and reduce their viability.
The cobs need to be dried. To dry them out, we hang them in a well-ventilated room, for example, in a barn, for several weeks so that they dry out completely. The cobs should be brittle, only then can you move on to the next stage.
Advice. Do not rush, it is the correct drying that allows you to save corn seeds, which will serve you for a long time
4. Collect the kernels from the cobs and store them
Now it’s time to separate the kernels from the cobs. You can simply rub the kernels with your hands or use a special tool. You need to be careful not to damage the seeds. It’s a fairly simple, but very calming process that always reminds us of old farming traditions.
After the kernels are separated, you need to find a place to store your corn seeds. It should be dry and cool. We use glass jars with silica gel packets to reduce humidity, and this helps the seeds last longer. Be sure to label the jar with the type of corn and the date. That’s it, you’re done!
You can learn more about how to properly store seeds in our guide to storing seeds.
Avoid Cross-Pollination. The Secret to Clean Corn Seed
When it comes to how to save corn seed, cross-pollination can be a real problem. We’ve already established that corn is pollinated by the wind, carrying pollen from one plant to another. But if you grow more than one variety of corn, or if your neighbors have corn in their yard, there’s a chance that the varieties can cross-pollinate. As a result, you’ll get a hybrid crop the following year.
When it comes to how to save corn seed, cross-pollination can be a real problem. We’ve already established that corn is pollinated by the wind, carrying pollen from one plant to another. But if you grow more than one variety of corn, or if your neighbors have corn in their yard, there’s a chance that the varieties can cross-pollinate. As a result, you’ll get a hybrid crop the following year.
One method we use is to isolate the corn we’re planning to save seed from. We plant it at least 250 feet away from other varieties, or plant it so that their pollination times don’t overlap. This method has proven itself to be effective in keeping the seeds clean. For even more protection, you can cover the tassels of the corn with bags. It’s a bit of a hassle, and it may seem unnecessary, but the results are worth it.
Science Fact
According to research from the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, corn pollen can travel up to a mile in windy conditions. So even if you live in a rural area, be careful and be aware of your neighbors’ corn fields.
How to Save Sweet Corn Seeds
Sweet corn has a shorter growing season, but the process for saving sweet corn seeds is very similar. You also need to make sure the cobs are completely dry, just like other types of corn. Sweet corn is more tender, so proper drying and storage is especially important to ensure viable seeds.
An Important Tip for Storing Sweet Corn
Temperature is very important here. Make sure you store sweet corn seeds at about 40°F (4°C). This is necessary to maintain their sweetness and gives them a good chance of 100% germination the following year. USDA research has shown that properly stored seeds can remain viable for up to five years.
Recommended Products for Successful Seed Saving
If you’re really interested in how to save corn seeds, here are a few tools that might come in handy. In a pinch, they’ve worked wonders for us over the years.
- Corn shucking tool. This tool makes separating the kernels from the cob a breeze. You can find a reliable shucking tool on Amazon.
- Glass jars with lids. We use these to store all of our seeds. They help keep the seeds dry and pest-free. Find them on Amazon.
- Moisture absorbers. These bags have proven to be great for long-term seed storage. Buy them here.
Successfully Saving Seeds
So now that you know how to save corn seeds, it’s time to get started. Think about planting seeds that you’ve collected yourself next season, and that are perfectly suited to your garden. There’s nothing better than knowing that your food is the result of careful planning and care in your garden. The end result is healthy food on your table.
I’d love to know if you’ve ever saved seeds? Share your tips and successes, or ask questions in the comments below.
Your participation helps build this amazing community of gardeners and farmers. And of course, don’t forget to check out our gardening blog for more great resources.
This article covers everything from choosing the right corn variety to avoiding cross-pollination, so you can have all the tools you need to save seeds.
