Ashworth Sweet Corn Seeds

Gardeners aren’t the only ones seeking to satisfy a sweet tooth with corn. Little critters have sweet teeth as well. Fred Ashworth, of St. Lawrence Nurseries in Potsdam, New York, originally named this variety “Rat Selected” in honor of the rodents that collected and stowed seed from his barn. Their selections unwittingly showed Fred the tastiest kernels, which they preferred. Though modern hybrids may be sweeter, Ashworth’s deep, buttery flavor resonates on the palate.

This corn germinates well in cool soil and bears short stalks with 6-7" yellow ears.

Growing Instructions:

Direct sow outdoors after the threat of frost has passed, until mid-summer. Sow corn seeds directly 3-4" apart, in rows spaced 36" apart in blocks of at least 4 rows to insure proper pollination for kernel formation. Thin plants to indicated spacing if necessary. Corn requires fertile soil and little attention. Water during dry periods. Harvest when ears are full and kernels are swollen and milky. Take care not to let ears over-ripen.

Days to Germination: 4-6 days

Days to Maturity: 75 days

Planting Depth: 3/4" 

Spacing in Row: 12"

Spacing Between Rows: 24-36"

Height at Maturity: 72-96"

Width at Maturity: 6"

Sun Preference: Full Sun