When to Plant Corn (Sweet) in Utah
Nothing says summer like fresh sweet corn. Plant in blocks (not rows) for proper pollination.
The Short Answer
Utah Frost Dates
Your planting dates depend on which part of Utah you're in. Here are the frost date ranges by region:
| Region | Zones | Last Frost (Spring) | First Frost (Fall) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wasatch Front (SLC) | 6a, 6b, 7a | Apr 20 - May 10 | Oct 1 - Oct 20 |
| Mountain Regions | 4a, 4b, 5a | May 25 - Jun 15 | Aug 25 - Sep 15 |
| Southern Utah | 6b, 7a, 7b | Apr 10 - May 1 | Oct 10 - Nov 1 |
Corn (Sweet) Planting Schedule for Utah
Wasatch Front (SLC) (Zones 6a, 6b, 7a)
Average last frost: Apr 20 - May 10 · Average first frost: Oct 1 - Oct 20
Mountain Regions (Zones 4a, 4b, 5a)
Average last frost: May 25 - Jun 15 · Average first frost: Aug 25 - Sep 15
Southern Utah (Zones 6b, 7a, 7b)
Average last frost: Apr 10 - May 1 · Average first frost: Oct 10 - Nov 1
Growing Corn (Sweet) in Utah
Corn (Sweet) in Utah's Climate
Sweet corn hits the table earlier in warm climates — plant in March-April and harvest before northern states even think about planting. The goal is tasseling before consistent 95°F+ days, which can impair pollination. A second short-season crop in late July for fall harvest is possible in many warm zones.
Soil Considerations for Utah
Alkaline desert soils. Low organic matter. Saline soils in some areas. Heavy amendment with compost and sulfur needed. Make sure soil has warmed to at least 60°F before planting corn (sweet) outside.
Utah Climate & Growing Season
Arid climate. Intense sun. Low humidity. Wide temperature swings. Irrigation essential everywhere. 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 Utah: Wasatch Front (SLC) (6a, 6b, 7a) has a last frost around Apr 20 - May 10, while Southern Utah (6b, 7a, 7b) sees frost end around Apr 10 - May 1. 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