When to Plant Corn (Sweet) in Missouri
Nothing says summer like fresh sweet corn. Plant in blocks (not rows) for proper pollination.
The Short Answer
Missouri Frost Dates
Your planting dates depend on which part of Missouri you're in. Here are the frost date ranges by region:
| Region | Zones | Last Frost (Spring) | First Frost (Fall) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Northern Missouri | 5b, 6a | Apr 20 - May 5 | Oct 1 - Oct 15 |
| Central Missouri | 6a, 6b | Apr 10 - Apr 25 | Oct 10 - Oct 25 |
| Southern Missouri | 6b, 7a | Apr 1 - Apr 15 | Oct 15 - Nov 1 |
Corn (Sweet) Planting Schedule for Missouri
Northern Missouri (Zones 5b, 6a)
Average last frost: Apr 20 - May 5 · Average first frost: Oct 1 - Oct 15
Central Missouri (Zones 6a, 6b)
Average last frost: Apr 10 - Apr 25 · Average first frost: Oct 10 - Oct 25
Southern Missouri (Zones 6b, 7a)
Average last frost: Apr 1 - Apr 15 · Average first frost: Oct 15 - Nov 1
Growing Corn (Sweet) in Missouri
Corn (Sweet) in Missouri's Climate
Your climate is classic corn country. Direct sow from mid-May. Succession plant through late June for harvests from July through September. Moderate summer temperatures produce long-lasting ears without the heat stress that shortens quality in southern states. European corn borer and corn earworm are the primary pests.
Soil Considerations for Missouri
Rich loess soils along Missouri River. Rocky Ozark soils in south. Heavy clay common. Generally fertile. Make sure soil has warmed to at least 60°F before planting corn (sweet) outside.
Missouri Climate & Growing Season
Continental climate. Hot, humid summers. Four seasons. Good growing season in most of state. 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 Missouri: Northern Missouri (5b, 6a) has a last frost around Apr 20 - May 5, while Southern Missouri (6b, 7a) sees frost end around Apr 1 - Apr 15. 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