When to Plant Corn (Sweet) in Pennsylvania
Nothing says summer like fresh sweet corn. Plant in blocks (not rows) for proper pollination.
The Short Answer
Pennsylvania Frost Dates
Your planting dates depend on which part of Pennsylvania you're in. Here are the frost date ranges by region:
| Region | Zones | Last Frost (Spring) | First Frost (Fall) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Northern Pennsylvania | 5a, 5b, 6a | May 5 - May 20 | Sep 20 - Oct 5 |
| Central Pennsylvania | 5b, 6a, 6b | Apr 25 - May 10 | Oct 1 - Oct 15 |
| Philadelphia Region | 7a, 7b | Apr 5 - Apr 20 | Oct 15 - Nov 5 |
Corn (Sweet) Planting Schedule for Pennsylvania
Northern Pennsylvania (Zones 5a, 5b, 6a)
Average last frost: May 5 - May 20 · Average first frost: Sep 20 - Oct 5
Central Pennsylvania (Zones 5b, 6a, 6b)
Average last frost: Apr 25 - May 10 · Average first frost: Oct 1 - Oct 15
Philadelphia Region (Zones 7a, 7b)
Average last frost: Apr 5 - Apr 20 · Average first frost: Oct 15 - Nov 5
Growing Corn (Sweet) in Pennsylvania
State-Specific Growing Tips
Southeast PA: plant from mid-May. Central PA: plant from late May. Northern PA: plant from early June. Pennsylvania's season allows succession planting through late June in the southeast. Corn is the heaviest nitrogen feeder in the garden — Pennsylvania's generally fertile soils still benefit from nitrogen amendment. Plant in blocks for pollination. Penn State Extension's sweet corn variety trials are some of the most thorough in the Northeast.
Recommended Varieties for Pennsylvania
Incredible and Honey Select are Penn State's consistently top-rated varieties. Silver Queen for tradition. Peaches and Cream for the bicolor fans. For the northern tier's shorter season, Early Sunglow (63 days) and Earlivee provide earlier harvests.
Common Challenges in Pennsylvania
Corn earworm arrives from the south, typically in late July — later and less severe than in southern states. European corn borer is common statewide. Raccoons and deer damage are significant in rural areas. Japanese beetles feed on silk, which can interfere with pollination. Groundhogs occasionally damage young stalks.
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