When to Plant Corn (Sweet) in Michigan
Nothing says summer like fresh sweet corn. Plant in blocks (not rows) for proper pollination.
The Short Answer
Michigan Frost Dates
Your planting dates depend on which part of Michigan you're in. Here are the frost date ranges by region:
| Region | Zones | Last Frost (Spring) | First Frost (Fall) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Upper Peninsula | 4a, 4b, 5a | May 15 - Jun 5 | Sep 10 - Sep 25 |
| Northern Lower Michigan | 5a, 5b | May 10 - May 25 | Sep 20 - Oct 5 |
| Southern Michigan | 5b, 6a, 6b | Apr 25 - May 10 | Oct 1 - Oct 15 |
Corn (Sweet) Planting Schedule for Michigan
Upper Peninsula (Zones 4a, 4b, 5a)
Average last frost: May 15 - Jun 5 · Average first frost: Sep 10 - Sep 25
Northern Lower Michigan (Zones 5a, 5b)
Average last frost: May 10 - May 25 · Average first frost: Sep 20 - Oct 5
Southern Michigan (Zones 5b, 6a, 6b)
Average last frost: Apr 25 - May 10 · Average first frost: Oct 1 - Oct 15
Growing Corn (Sweet) in Michigan
State-Specific Growing Tips
Direct sow from late May to early June when soil reaches 60°F. Michigan's sandy western soils warm quickly — lakeshore gardeners can sometimes plant a week earlier than inland areas at the same latitude. Plant in blocks of at least 4×4 for pollination. Michigan's moderate summer temperatures (rarely exceeding 90°F) mean pollination stress is uncommon — a genuine advantage over southern states. Side-dress with nitrogen when stalks reach knee height. Succession plant through late June for harvests from July through September.
Recommended Varieties for Michigan
Incredible and Honey Select for main-season planting. Early Sunglow (63 days) for northern Michigan and the UP where the season is tight. Peaches and Cream remains a Michigan favorite. For the adventurous, try Dakota Black or Glass Gem for ornamental and popping corn. MSU Extension's vegetable variety trials include detailed sweet corn comparisons.
Common Challenges in Michigan
Raccoons are the bane of Michigan corn growers — they seem to know the exact day corn is ready and arrive the night before. Electric fencing works; nothing else really does. Corn earworm arrives from the south and is usually less severe than in southern states. European corn borer is present. Deer browse young corn in rural areas.
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