Sweet corn is a summertime favorite, with its sweet and flavorful kernels that are perfect for grilling, boiling, or roasting. If you have sweet corn in your garden and are wondering when it is ready to be picked, there are a few signs to look for.
One of the most obvious signs that your sweet corn is ready to be picked is the appearance of the corn kernels themselves. When sweet corn is ripe, the kernels will be plump and full, and they will be surrounded by a tightly fitting husk. The kernels should be firm to the touch, and when you press a thumbnail into them, the kernel should break open easily and release a milky juice.
Another way to tell if your sweet corn is ready to be picked is to check the silk at the top of the cob. When the sweet corn is ripe, the silk will be brown and dry, and it will be easily visible at the top of the cob. If the silk is still green or moist, the corn is not yet ready to be picked.
In addition to the appearance of the kernels and the silk, you can also check the size of the cobs themselves. When sweet corn is ripe, the cobs will be full and plump, with a diameter of about 1 to 1.5 inches. If the cobs are still small or thin, they are not yet ready to be picked.
Overall, sweet corn is a summertime treat that is easy to grow and care for. By paying attention to the appearance of the kernels, the silk, and the size of the cobs, you can easily determine when your sweet corn is ready to be picked and enjoy its sweet and flavorful kernels all summer long.