When to Plant Sweet Corn in Hidalgo County, TX
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.
Hidalgo County, Texas is in USDA Zone 9b. The average last spring frost is February 6 and the first fall frost is December 18, giving you a growing season of approximately 315 days.
At an elevation of 4,081 feet, Hidalgo County receives approximately 67 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly loam soil. Summer highs average 100°F, so Sweet Corn may need afternoon shade and extra watering during peak heat. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Sweet Corn root diseases.
Hidalgo County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.2-7.8
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 — Hidalgo County, TX
Sweet Corn Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Direct Sow | February 13 | Feb 13 – Mar 6 |
| Harvest | April 17 | Apr 17 – May 29 |
Plant 1" deep · 12" apart · Rows 36" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | Direct Sow |
| March | Direct Sow |
| April | Harvest |
| May | Harvest |
| June | — |
| 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 9b
Growing Season
315 days
Growing Tips for Hidalgo 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 Hidalgo County, TX?
Hidalgo County is in Zone 9b with an average last frost of February 6. Plan your Sweet Corn planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Hidalgo County, TX?
Hidalgo County, Texas is in USDA Hardiness Zone 9b. The average last spring frost is February 6 and first fall frost is December 18.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help Hidalgo County gardeners in Zone 9b organize planting dates, track what's growing, and never miss a planting window.
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