When to Plant Sweetcorn in the UK

Sweetcorn grows best in warm conditions, so planting usually happens later in spring once soil temperatures begin to rise. Planting at the right time helps seeds germinate quickly and plants grow strongly.

Sweetcorn is usually grown from seed started indoors or planted outside once frost risk has passed.

Starting sweetcorn seeds

Sweetcorn seeds are often started indoors in April or early May.

Seeds grow quickly in warm conditions.

Young plants are usually ready to move outside after a few weeks.

Planting sweetcorn outdoors

Sweetcorn is usually planted outside in May or early June, once soil becomes warmer.

Planting in blocks rather than single rows helps pollination.

Sunny, sheltered locations usually produce better results.

Growing sweetcorn in containers

Sweetcorn can be planted in large containers filled with compost.

For container advice, see growing sweetcorn in containers.

Planning the sweetcorn growing season

Sweetcorn planted in late spring is often harvested in late summer.

Warm weather helps cobs develop properly.

For growing advice, see how to grow sweetcorn in the UK.