Growing the Supersweets (Sh2) is different than growing the other varieties because their pollen is weak and easily replaced by other types. They must be isolated from other types of sweet and field corn to prevent cross pollination that causes the kernels to lose their sweetness.

Because corn is wind-pollinated, separate these types by 500 feet or more especially if yours is downwind from other large cornfields. If it is not possible to separate the corn by distance, stagger the planting date so that your corn tassels at least two weeks earlier or later than the other varieties.

Corn needs to grow quickly to be tasty. Sweet corn grows about one inch per day, so it needs adequate soil moisture and good nutrition to make the best crop. In addition to the fertilizer that you apply when you prepare the soil, you must add additional nitrogen fertilizer for best yields.

Side dress sweet corn with 3/4 pound of 21-0-0 per 100 square feet when plants have 8-10 leaves and add an additional 1/4 pound when the first silks appear. Place the fertilizer 6 inches to the side of the plant and irrigate it into the soil.

The last word of advice for successfully growing supersweet corn varieties this year is to not plant them too soon. Plant after the soil and air temperatures go above 60 degrees F. Make certain the soil temperature is at or above that temperature at 9 a.m. for three successive mornings before you plant for best germination and plant growth.

For a continuous supply of sweet corn throughout the summer, plant an early variety, a second early variety and a main-crop variety in the first planting or pick your favorite type and plant more every couple of weeks. Plantings can be made as late as the first week of July.

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Larry A. Sagers is the horticulture specialist, Utah State University Extension at Thanksgiving Point.