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When Is Corn Season in the U.S? Timing Your Harvest Right
Aug
Corn is among the most popular crops in the U.S. Fresh corn can be enjoyed in the summer and used in a variety of goods throughout the year.
However, timing is critical for getting the tastiest, freshest corn possible. So, when is corn season?
In this guide, we’ll explore when corn is in season in the U.S, the time it takes to grow, and what to expect during harvest. In this way, you can experience the best flavor and freshness of corn.
When Is Corn Season?
Corn season in the United States typically begins in late June and lasts until early autumn, depending on location. Fresh corn can be harvested in warmer southern areas as early as mid-June.
However, cooler northern states often start harvesting in late July or August. The Corn Belt, including states such as Iowa, Illinois, and Nebraska, normally begins its main harvest around September.
Corn is grown each spring and harvested once a year, so timing your planting and care is key. With the ideal conditions, each plant can produce 2-4 ears. Good soil, water, and sunlight are all required for success.
How Can You Tell If Corn Is Ready to Be Harvested?
Farmers can track the growth of corn from planting to harvest by observing the stages. Corn first undergoes vegetative growth. This period produces tassels and leaves.
Then it enters the reproductive stage and produces kernels. If you notice dent appear at the top of each kernel, that is a key sign the corn is nearly ready to be harvested.
Another indicator is the milk line. It is a white line within the kernel that goes downward as it matures. When the line reaches the base, it produces a black coating, indicating complete maturation.
After that, farmers start checking the moisture content of corn. You should harvest when moisture levels fall to 17% or below. This will ensure safe storage and high-quality products.
Typical Dates For Harvesting Corn by US State
Corn harvesting dates vary across the United States based on the environment and planting schedules. The harvest season typically begins in late August and lasts until November. Plus, southern states usually harvest corn earlier than northern ones.
The graphic, based on USDA statistics, shows when corn harvests usually end in each state. In 2020, Iowa led the way with more than 2.29 billion bushels, followed by Illinois, Nebraska, and Minnesota.
These top-producing states frequently begin harvesting in September and end in late October or early November.
Here is a glance at the top 10 corn-producing states in 2020:
- Iowa – 2.29B bushels (16.2% of U.S. total)
- Illinois – 2.13B (15.0%)
- Nebraska – 1.79B (12.6%)
- Minnesota – 1.44B (10.2%)
- Indiana – 981M (6.9%)
- Kansas – 766M (5.4%)
- South Dakota – 729M (5.1%)
- Ohio – 564M (4.0%)
- Missouri – 561M (4.0%)
- Wisconsin – 517M (3.6%)
(Note: B – Billion, M – Million)
Useful Information About the Corn Season
There’s a lot to know about planting, harvesting, and how long you can preserve it. Here is some useful information to help you get through the entire corn season.
How Long Does the Corn Growing Season Last?
The growing season of corn often takes 60 to 100 days. This depends on the variety of corn, climate, and care.
Some early-maturing types can be ready in as few as 2 months, while others may take up to 120 days. Warm temperatures and well-drained soil are essential for proper growth.
To predict when their corn will be ready for harvest, farmers typically keep an eye on “growing degree days” (GDDs). When the corn silk becomes brown and the kernels are big and plump, it’s usually time to harvest.
How Long Does Corn Last After Harvest?
Corn doesn’t last long at room temperature. So it is best served fresh after it has been picked. Fresh corn keeps well in the refrigerator for 5 to 7 days. If you blanch or freeze corn, it can last much longer, up to 8-12 months.
You may freeze it both on and off the cob. Just bear in mind that, while frozen corn lasts long, the texture and flavor may diminish over time.
So, for the finest flavor, try to eat it sooner rather than later.
What Happens If You Harvest Corn Too Late or Too Early?
Harvesting corn too early may result in small, undeveloped kernels that lack the sweet flavor that corn is known for. The sugar concentration may also be minimal, making the corn taste bland or starchy.
On the other hand, harvesting too late may cause the corn to become tough and chewy. Sweet corn’s sugars will begin to convert into starch, destroying the flavor. Late harvests in field corn might result in lodging (stalks falling over) or kernel loss.
How To Store Corn Properly?
The proper way to store corn is to check the moisture level. Kernels are typically ready to harvest when the moisture content is between 15-20%.
To effectively remove the stalks and separate the kernels from the cob, use a combine harvester. After harvesting, be sure to dry the corn completely to avoid mold and spoilage.
Once dried, place the corn in a cool, dry location away from pests and humidity. To ensure quality, remove any debris or broken kernels before storing.
Finally, keep a detailed record of your corn harvest. This allows you to track the performance of your crop and prepare more effectively for future growing seasons.
Harvest Corn With Advanced John Deere Equipment
As corn harvest season approaches, having the correct instruments can make a significant impact. John Deere’s innovative harvesting equipment is designed to help farmers get the most from each acre.
Their combines and corn headers are engineered with precision and smart technology to provide great performance and efficiency. Whether you work in big fields or small operations, John Deere has the solutions you need.
Final Thoughts
You’ve learned about “When is corn season?”. Knowing when corn season starts and ends will help you enjoy the freshest, sweetest corn at the optimal time.
If you have a large field, you will need equipment to help with harvesting. You also need to stay informed on local planting seasons and harvest corn at the right time to get the best corn.
