Early Golden Bantam corn, also known simply as Golden Bantam, is a classic and iconic sweet corn variety with a rich history dating back to the early 20th century. Introduced in 1902 by W. Atlee Burpee, it quickly became one of the most popular corn varieties in the United States. This heirloom corn is cherished for its exceptional flavor and remains a favorite among home gardeners and corn enthusiasts. In terms of taste, Early Golden Bantam corn is celebrated for its exceptional sweetness and tender kernels. When harvested at its peak ripeness, the kernels are a vibrant golden-yellow color and offer a rich, full-bodied corn flavor that is a true delight to the palate. It is often considered one of the sweetest heirloom corn varieties available, making it a standout choice for those seeking a delectable corn-eating experience. The corn stalks typically reach a height of about 5 to 6 feet, producing small to medium-sized ears that are around 6-7 inches long. Early Golden Bantam corn has a relatively short maturity period, usually taking about 75-80 days from planting to harvest, making it suitable for regions with shorter growing seasons. Each ear contains approximately 8 rows of kernels, with 12-14 rows per inch. It is a prolific producer, and each stalk usually yields 1 to 2 ears. To successfully grow Early Golden Bantam corn, you should provide it with well-drained soil rich in organic matter. Plant the seeds in full sun and ensure they receive consistent moisture throughout the growing season. Adequate spacing between rows (about 30 inches) allows for good air circulation and prevents overcrowding. This variety is also known for its resistance to common corn pests and diseases. Planting in blocks rather than single rows can improve pollination, leading to more uniform ears. Overall, Early Golden Bantam corn is a beloved heirloom variety that offers a combination of historical significance and exceptional flavor, making it a delightful addition to any garden or dinner plate.
Minnesota 13 corn seed is a hybrid variety specifically developed to thrive in the northern climates and shorter growing seasons of regions like Minnesota. This dent corn is renowned for its adaptability and resilience, featuring strong stalks that can withstand harsh weather conditions. With a relatively short maturity period, it offers good yield potential, making it a reliable choice for farmers looking to maximize production. Additionally, Minnesota 13 is bred for resistance to common pests and diseases, ensuring robust growth and high-quality grain. Its versatility allows it to perform well in various soil types, particularly in well-drained, fertile soils, making it a staple in northern Midwest agriculture.
Dublin corn produces beautiful tall stalks that can reach 8-10' with 8-9" long ears. Originating from Dublin, Ontario this corn was developed for a short growing season. A high protein percentage of 10-11%, this variety can be used for flour, cornmeal, and by distilleries.
Black Amber is a broom corn used for decoration and bird seed. An heirloom sorghum also known as Texas Black Amber Molasses. Stalks were used for forage, silage and sorghum syrup, due to a high sugar content and were used to replace sugar cane. Seed heads are similar to corn tassels but, consist of shiny black hulls encasing amber colored seeds.
Yellow Cónico corn is a traditional Mexican heirloom variety known for its distinctive, conical-shaped ears and vibrant yellow kernels. This Yellow Cónico is grown in the highlands of Atlacomulco in Estado de México and produces a light and lovely golden masa. This corn is highly prized for its versatility and excellent texture, making it ideal for a wide range of culinary uses, from making masa for tortillas and tamales to being ground into flour for baking. The plant is hardy and adaptable, thriving in a variety of climates, though it particularly excels in regions with warm temperatures and well-drained soil. The kernels have a slightly sweet, rich flavor that stands out in both savory and sweet dishes. Yellow "Amarillo" Cónico corn has deep cultural significance in Mexico, where it has been grown for centuries, and its open-pollinated nature makes it an excellent choice for sustainable farming practices. Whether grown for food or as part of a seed-saving program, Yellow Cónico corn continues to be a cherished variety for its unique taste and historical roots.
Pink Xocoyul corn is a unique heirloom variety from the mountainous regions of Oaxaca, Mexico, renowned for its striking pinkish kernels and its rich, nutty flavor. This Tlaxacaltecan varietal of pink heirloom corn is akin to a Chalqueño, but a bit denser. This traditional corn is often grown in small, family-run farms and is prized for its ability to thrive in high-altitude, temperate climates. While it is traditionally used for atole dulce, a warm, sweet masa beverage, Xocoyul lends itself seamlessly to a variety of masa applications, such as quesadillas with fresh quesillo or festive pink tamales. Beyond its culinary uses, Pink Xocoyul corn is valued for its cultural significance in Oaxacan cuisine, where it plays a central role in regional food traditions. Like many heirloom varieties, it is open-pollinated, making it an excellent choice for sustainable farming and seed-saving. This beautiful corn not only adds vibrant color to dishes but also helps preserve a piece of Mexico's agricultural heritage.
Red Head broom corn produces a tall spray of seed heads at the top of the plant, laden with shiny red tiny sorghum seeds that birds love. Incorporate seeds into edible bird-feeder wreaths or leave the 2–3' sprays intact to add variety to traditional fall decorations.
Red Cónico corn is a striking heirloom variety from Mexico, known for its deep red kernels and distinctive conical shape. This traditional corn is prized for its rich, nutty flavor and excellent texture, making it ideal for grinding into masa for tortillas, tamales, or for use in savory dishes like soups and stews. The plant is hardy, thriving in a range of climates, particularly in high-altitude regions, and is often grown in smaller, family-owned farms where it has been cultivated for generations. Red "Rojo" Cónico corn’s deep cultural significance in Mexican cuisine, along with its vibrant color and versatility, make it a favorite for both home gardeners and farmers looking to preserve traditional varieties. Its open-pollinated nature also makes it a great choice for sustainable farming and seed saving.
Japanese Hulless corn grows 4-5 ft. tall and bears 3-6 four in. long ears. This corn is a little nutty, flavorful popcorn that is very productive. Japanese Hulless is also a great corn to grow with the kids because they get excited knowing the corn they are growing will be a tasty, buttery treat on family movie night!
Truckers Favorite Yellow is an heirloom yellow dent field corn that is excellent for roasting or frying or used as a dent. This variety stays fresh for a long time. Truckers Favorite Yellow stalks are 8-9' tall and ears are 8-10" and have 14-18 rows. This corn has high yields with good soil fertilization and is an excellent foliage for early fodder.
Fiesta is a hybridized selection of Indian corn with various tones of blue, red, yellow, and white. Approximate maturity is 101 days which is 10 to 14 days earlier than other ornamental corns. Ears average 7 to 10 inches in length with 50 to 70% purple husks. Highly ornamental but also edible, Fiesta corn can be ground into corn meal, corn flour, or used for popping corn.
Blue Cónico corn is a beautiful heirloom variety from Mexico, known for its striking blue-purple kernels and conical-shaped ears. This traditional corn is not only visually stunning but also prized for its rich, nutty flavor and excellent texture, which makes it ideal for grinding into masa to create tortillas, tamales, and other staple dishes. The plant is hardy and adaptable, thriving in a variety of climates, especially in higher altitudes, and is well-suited to organic and sustainable farming practices. Blue "Azul" Cónico corn is highly valued for its role in Mexican cuisine, where it adds both flavor and color to a wide range of dishes. As an open-pollinated variety, it is a favorite among farmers and gardeners who value biodiversity and the preservation of heritage crops, ensuring this ancient corn continues to be a significant part of Mexico's agricultural and culinary traditions.
