Corn ‘Glass Gem’ Vegetable Seeds
Botanical Name: Zea mays
- Stunning heirloom corn variety prized for its vibrant, jewel-like kernels.
- Each cob is unique, displaying a rainbow of translucent colours including blue, purple, pink, gold, and green.
- Traditionally used for popping, grinding into cornmeal, or as a striking ornamental display.
- Open-pollinated variety bred from Native American heirlooms.
- Excellent choice for seed saving, with stable traits over generations.
- Perfect for educational gardens, children’s projects, and heritage growers.
- Resilient and productive, producing medium to large ears on strong stalks.
Plant Details
- Plant Type: Annual warm-season grain
- Plant Height: 180–240 cm
Sowing Information
- Germination: 7–14 days
- Depth: 2–4 cm deep
- Position: Full sun, sheltered from strong wind
- Sow Where: Direct where it is to grow (corn does not transplant well)
- Soil Type: Rich, well-drained soil; add compost or organic matter before planting
- Spacing: 25–30 cm between plants; 70–90 cm between rows. Plant in blocks rather than rows for good pollination.
Growing Tips
- Ensure regular watering, particularly during tasselling and cob formation.
- Grow in blocks of at least 3–4 rows for better kernel set from wind pollination.
- Mulch to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.
- Harvest when husks dry and kernels are firm and glossy for ornamental use or grinding.
- For popcorn, allow cobs to fully mature and dry on the plant where possible.
Harvest
90–110 days from sowing. Pick once husks are dry and kernels have hardened. Store cobs in a cool, dry place for long-term use or ornamental display.
When to Sow Glass Gem Corn in Your Climate
Climate Zone | Best Planting Time | Tips |
---|---|---|
Temperate | Late spring to early summer | Sow after the last frost when soil has warmed to at least 15°C. |
Subtropical | Spring to early summer | Avoid sowing in the wet season; ensure consistent moisture. |
Tropical | Dry season (autumn to winter) | Plant during cooler, drier months for stronger growth and pollination. |
Cool | Late spring | Delay sowing until soil is warm. Use row covers if nights are still cool. |
Arid | Spring and early summer | Mulch heavily and irrigate regularly to maintain even soil moisture. |