Stowells Evergreen Corn (Heirloom 90-100 Days)

Heirloom 1848

There is an interesting story about Stowells Evergreen Corn in the Seed Savers Exchange catalog. Nathaniel Stowell worked for decades to develop the variety. He sold 2 ears to a friend for $4 and the friend agreed that it was just for private use. The “friend” sold the seed for $20,000 and it was introduced to the seed trade. D. M. Ferry had this to say in 1930, “The standard maincrop variety— it is hardy and productive, very tender and sugary – the ears about 7-8” long, 14-20 rowed, with very white grain. The stalks are about 7 1/2 ‘ high.” 

150 seeds

PLANTING

Zea mays

Germination: 7-14 days

Germination Temperature: Optimum soil temperatures 60-85ºF. Planting in soil under 60ºF results in poor germination.

Seed Sowing Depth: 1” deep

Sowing Outdoors: In late spring , after the last frost date , when soil reaches at least 60ºF. Sow 4-6” apart, thin to 10-12” apart. Plant in blocks, 4-5 rows, 24-36” apart to aid with pollination. Corn is pollinated by wind therefore planting in blocks ensures proper pollination rather than one long single row where the pollen can easily blow away resulting in small, poorly filled out ears.

How much does a packet plant: 15-20 foot single row, block of 4 rows at 4 foot.

Harvest: Ready for picking 2 1/2 - 3 weeks after silks appear. Silks become dry and brown. The kernels should be plump and full. Test by pressing your fingertip into a kernel, looking for a "milky" appearance. Best picked in the morning and refrigerate/cool right away.

Harvest Dent or Ornamental Corn: When husks become dried or after one or two frost. 

Harvest Popcorn: When ears are mature, kernels appear shiny and are hard. Remove the husk and let the ears dry for a few weeks. Test pop kernels after a few weeks to see if they are dry enough. Store popcorn by removing kernels or leave them on the ears. 

Tips: Stowells Evergreen Corn needs an abundance of nitrogen. Add manure (in the fall) or rich compost a few weeks before planting. Add a high-nitrogen organic fertilizer every few weeks until tassels form. Keep well weeded, especially when they are seedlings and well watered, 1 inch a week especially during the silk stage.