When to Plant Sweet Corn in Howard 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.
Howard County, Texas is in USDA Zone 7b. The average last spring frost is March 26 and the first fall frost is November 12, giving you a growing season of approximately 231 days.
At an elevation of 3,918 feet, Howard County receives approximately 59.3 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly sandy loam soil. Summer highs average 99°F, so Sweet Corn may need afternoon shade and extra watering during peak heat. Sandy soil warms quickly in spring — great for early planting — but Sweet Corn will need more frequent watering and organic matter to retain nutrients. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Sweet Corn root diseases.
Howard County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Sandy Loam
Soil pH
7.9-8.3
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
Water stress score is 8/10 — consider drought-tolerant varieties and mulching
Sweet Corn Planting Timeline — Howard County, TX
Sweet Corn Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Direct Sow | April 2 | Apr 2 – Apr 23 |
| Harvest | June 4 | Jun 4 – Jul 16 |
Plant 1" deep · 12" apart · Rows 36" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | Direct Sow |
| May | — |
| June | Harvest |
| July | Harvest |
| 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 7b
Growing Season
231 days
Growing Tips for Howard 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 Howard County, TX?
Howard County is in Zone 7b with an average last frost of March 26. Plan your Sweet Corn planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Howard County, TX?
Howard County, Texas is in USDA Hardiness Zone 7b. The average last spring frost is March 26 and first fall frost is November 12.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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