Many varieties of corn are considered long season crops. For this reason, some growers can struggle to produce a successful crop in our shorter Montana season. However, there are some work-arounds that still allow Montana’s growers to enjoy fresh corn.
Corn varieties that have a shorter timespan from planting to maturity tend to produce a crop more successfully. Look for varieties that mature in 60-70 days. Some historically popular early varieties are: Kandy Kwik (68 days) and the bicolor, Quickie (64 days), Trinity bicolor (68 days), and Precocious (66 days). We also are fans of varieties Montana Morado Maize and Painted Mountain Corn, developed in Montana by North Frontier Farms.
Most Corn needs to be planted in warmer soil temperatures, after soil has reached temperatures of 60-65 degrees, and after the last frost date for your area. While some early varieties can be planted as early as mid-May, most can at least be planted by the end of May. While it can be transplanted, corn does much better directly sown in the ground, and also benefits from soil or fertilizer with a higher nitrogen content.
Corn has been considered a “staple” food in the diet of many different countries and people groups around the world. It was domesticated 1000s of years ago, but looked very different then, compared to the corn often found on grocery stores shelves today.
Because our American diet is so heavy with corn, it often gets a bad rap. (The old adage holds true – too much of a good thing is bad!) But, corn actually has many health benefits! Along with fiber, magnesium, potassium and calcium, corn also contains vitamins A and C, and some even have antioxidants like anthocyanins. Corn is also naturally gluten free! Of course, as with many foods, the less processed it is, the more nutritious it is.
Corn is sweet and delicious on its own. You can slice it up and eat it raw for a crunchy snack. Or it’s delicious when grilled, buttered, and seasoned. And it’s great when added to salads, salsa, and a variety of other dishes.
What makes corn extra special is its versatility and ability to complement a number of other foods. Here is a selection of our favorite summer recipes showcasing corn:
And, to give your summer a little kick, make our Corn Street Tacos. They’re the perfect meal for a taco Tuesday, or any summer evening!
Recipe by Tracee Hume
Emilee Wood is a Communications Coordinator for Abundant Montana, based out of Belgrade, MT. You can find her covered in dirt from her garden, chasing her ducks, or exploring in the mountains. Give her seed suggestions for next year’s garden at [email protected].