Glass gem heirloom corn

Glass Gem Heirloom Corn is a warm-season flint corn that grows best in full sun and deep, fertile, well-drained soil enriched with compost. Plant after frost once the soil reaches at least 60°F (16°C), sowing seeds about 1 inch deep.

Growing conditions: Plant in blocks of at least four short rows rather than one long row to improve wind pollination. Space plants about 6–12 inches apart with 30–36 inches between rows. Provide about 1 inch of water per week, with extra attention during tasseling, silking, and kernel fill. Side-dress with nitrogen when plants are knee-high and again around tasseling.

Pollination and harvest: Isolate from other corn varieties or stagger planting times if preserving the characteristic colors. Leave ears on the stalk until husks are brown and papery and kernels are hard. Dry harvested ears thoroughly in a warm, well-ventilated place before shelling, saving, or grinding.