sweetcorn up north

Rats do love sweetcorn though I'm unaffected.

I grow Swift variety as it's got a shorter growing season and is recommended for northern sites

 

I should hope not, given that I am a laydee 

Oh I'd definitely blame DD 

More likely the lack of sun. I thought I was heading for 3 cobs per plant last year but they didn't make it beyond an average of 1 1/2 per plant in the end. The weather July onwards was not sweetcorn-friendly here and no doubt the same where you are!

They'll be fantastic this year!!

sweetcorn up nth , in deepest darkest east yorkshire (hull) we start our corn off in 3 inch pots,

we grow 10 rows of 6, block pollination they say,

start them off in may in compost with 1/4 sharp sand mixed in ,

press seeds in about 1/4 inch and cover and no need to water more then 1-2 each week ,

 let them get to about 6 inches high then feed 1/2 strength seaweed extract,

plant out at about 1 foot high , 15-18 inches apart,

I live in Manchester and I start my corn off in root-trainers.  When the risk of frost has gone (for frost dates in your area, try http://www.gardenaction.co.uk/, and put in your town, and it comes up with frost dates).  Anyway, I plant my corn in late April - they have grown to a good 6"+ by that time, as they've been in the conservatory.  I then put them in the greenhouse a couple of weeks before planting.

going to try the john harrison method of growing sweetcorn. plants need to be established by 21st june as it only grows at night time being geared to the equal day and night time of the deep south. plenty of good compost and feed.