When to Plant Sweet Corn in Dougherty County, GA
Sweet corn is bred for high sugar content in its kernels, which convert to starch rapidly after harvest. Modern supersweet varieties hold their sweetness longer.
Dougherty County, Georgia is in USDA Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is March 7 and the first fall frost is November 18, giving you a growing season of approximately 256 days.
At an elevation of 269 feet, Dougherty County receives approximately 54.6 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly clay loam soil. Summer highs average 96°F, so Sweet Corn may need afternoon shade and extra watering during peak heat. Clay soil retains moisture well for Sweet Corn, but amend with compost to improve drainage and prevent root rot. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Sweet Corn root diseases.
Dougherty County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
5.4-6.2
Drainage
Well Drained
Plant Planting Risk Windows
Percentages indicate frost risk at transplant. The 70% safe window means there is a 30% chance of frost after transplant — suitable for cold-hardy crops or gardeners with frost protection. The 90% safe window is best for tender plants.
Plant Water Budget
Sweet Corn Planting Timeline — Dougherty County, GA
Sweet Corn Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Direct Sow | March 14 | Mar 14 – Apr 4 |
| Harvest | May 16 | May 16 – Jun 27 |
Plant 1" deep · 12" apart · Rows 36" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | Direct Sow |
| April | Direct Sow |
| May | Harvest |
| June | Harvest |
| July | — |
| August | — |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
Water
Moderate — regular watering
Days to Maturity
60–90 days
Soil pH
6 – 7
USDA Zone
Zone 8a
Growing Season
256 days
Growing Tips for Dougherty County
Plant in blocks of at least 4 rows for wind pollination. Direct sow after soil is warm. Isolate supersweet varieties from other corn types to prevent cross-pollination.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Level Up Your Garden
Sweet Corn in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Sweet Corn in Dougherty County, GA?
Dougherty County is in Zone 8a with an average last frost of March 7. Plan your Sweet Corn planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Dougherty County, GA?
Dougherty County, Georgia is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is March 7 and first fall frost is November 18.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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