When to Plant Corn (Sweet) in Alaska
Nothing says summer like fresh sweet corn. Plant in blocks (not rows) for proper pollination.
The Short Answer
Alaska Frost Dates
Your planting dates depend on which part of Alaska you're in. Here are the frost date ranges by region:
| Region | Zones | Last Frost (Spring) | First Frost (Fall) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Interior Alaska | 1a, 2a, 2b | May 15 - Jun 1 | Aug 20 - Sep 10 |
| Southcentral Alaska | 3b, 4a, 4b | May 1 - May 20 | Sep 10 - Sep 25 |
| Southeast Alaska | 5a, 5b, 6a | Apr 15 - May 5 | Sep 25 - Oct 15 |
Corn (Sweet) Planting Schedule for Alaska
Interior Alaska (Zones 1a, 2a, 2b)
Average last frost: May 15 - Jun 1 · Average first frost: Aug 20 - Sep 10
Southcentral Alaska (Zones 3b, 4a, 4b)
Average last frost: May 1 - May 20 · Average first frost: Sep 10 - Sep 25
Southeast Alaska (Zones 5a, 5b, 6a)
Average last frost: Apr 15 - May 5 · Average first frost: Sep 25 - Oct 15
Growing Corn (Sweet) in Alaska
Corn (Sweet) in Alaska's Climate
Sweet corn needs warm soil and warm nights but matures quickly enough for most cold-climate gardens. Direct sow when soil reaches 60°F — typically late May. Choose early varieties (60-65 days) for the shortest seasons. Plant in blocks of at least 4×4 for wind pollination. Raccoons are the universal corn nemesis — electric fencing is the only reliable deterrent.
Soil Considerations for Alaska
Varies widely. Interior has permafrost challenges. Raised beds essential for warming soil. Highly acidic soils common. Make sure soil has warmed to at least 60°F before planting corn (sweet) outside.
Alaska Climate & Growing Season
Extreme daylight variation. Summer days of 18-24 hours of sunlight accelerate growth. Very short growing season in interior. Corn (Sweet) cannot tolerate any frost, so wait until all frost danger has passed before transplanting outside. Watch local forecasts carefully in spring.
Growing season length varies across Alaska: Interior Alaska (1a, 2a, 2b) has a last frost around May 15 - Jun 1, while Southeast Alaska (5a, 5b, 6a) sees frost end around Apr 15 - May 5. This difference matters for corn (sweet) — transplant timing shifts by several weeks across the state.
Growing Tips
Plant in blocks of at least 4x4 for wind pollination. Corn is a heavy feeder — amend soil with compost before planting.
Companion Planting
Plant corn (sweet) alongside these companions for better growth:
Keep corn (sweet) away from:
The Bottom Line
Last reviewed: March 29, 2026