Warm-Season Vegetable

When to Plant Corn (Sweet) in Georgia

Nothing says summer like fresh sweet corn. Plant in blocks (not rows) for proper pollination.

The Short Answer

Georgia's warm climate and rich agricultural soils produce exceptional sweet corn, and the crop has been a centerpiece of Georgia's summer food culture for generations. The state's long growing season allows both spring and late-summer plantings, and Georgia's position in the Southeast means corn matures weeks before Midwest harvests.

Georgia Frost Dates

Your planting dates depend on which part of Georgia you're in. Here are the frost date ranges by region:

Region Zones Last Frost (Spring) First Frost (Fall)
North Georgia Mountains 6b, 7a Apr 5 - Apr 20 Oct 10 - Oct 25
Central Georgia 7b, 8a Mar 15 - Apr 1 Nov 1 - Nov 15
South Georgia 8a, 8b, 9a Feb 28 - Mar 15 Nov 10 - Nov 25

Corn (Sweet) Planting Schedule for Georgia

North Georgia Mountains (Zones 6b, 7a)

Average last frost: Apr 5 - Apr 20 · Average first frost: Oct 10 - Oct 25

Direct Sow
2 wks after frost

Central Georgia (Zones 7b, 8a)

Average last frost: Mar 15 - Apr 1 · Average first frost: Nov 1 - Nov 15

Direct Sow
2 wks after frost

South Georgia (Zones 8a, 8b, 9a)

Average last frost: Feb 28 - Mar 15 · Average first frost: Nov 10 - Nov 25

Direct Sow
2 wks after frost

Growing Corn (Sweet) in Georgia

State-Specific Growing Tips

North Georgia mountains: plant from mid-May. Piedmont/Atlanta: plant from late April. South Georgia: plant from mid-March. Georgia's long season allows succession planting through June. The Piedmont's red clay is naturally fertile for corn but may need pH adjustment — corn prefers 6.0-6.8. Side-dress with nitrogen when knee-high. In south Georgia, a late-summer planting (July) for fall harvest is possible if you choose varieties that mature in 65-70 days.

Recommended Varieties for Georgia

Silver Queen is Georgia's traditional favorite. Incredible, Honey Select, and Peaches and Cream all produce well. For south Georgia's long season, try full-season varieties like Country Gentleman. Georgia seed companies often carry varieties specifically selected for southeastern conditions.

Common Challenges in Georgia

Fall armyworm is the most destructive corn pest in Georgia. Corn earworm is also common. Raccoons and deer are significant threats in rural areas. Southern corn leaf blight in humid conditions. Smut appears occasionally — destroy infected ears promptly.

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:

Beans Squash Melons

Keep corn (sweet) away from:

Tomatoes

The Bottom Line

Corn (Sweet) can be grown successfully in Georgia with proper attention to regional frost dates and local growing conditions. Timing varies across the state — North Georgia Mountains gardeners work with a last frost around Apr 5 - Apr 20, while South Georgia sees frost end around Feb 28 - Mar 15. Choose varieties suited to your region, amend your soil based on its specific needs, and monitor for the pests and diseases most common in your area. For exact dates based on your zip code, use our free planting date finder.

Related Guides

Corn (Sweet) Growing Guide National planting guide with all states Georgia Planting Calendar All plants for Georgia Corn (Sweet) in Alabama Alabama planting dates Corn (Sweet) in Alaska Alaska planting dates Corn (Sweet) in Arizona Arizona planting dates Corn (Sweet) in Arkansas Arkansas planting dates
Note: All dates are based on NOAA 30-year Climate Normals and represent historical averages, not predictions for any specific year. Always check your local weather forecast before planting frost-sensitive crops. Learn about our data sources.

Last reviewed: March 29, 2026

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