2026 Planting Guide
Spring cropWhen to Plant Corn (Maize) in Georgia
Complete guide to growing corn (maize) in Georgia with optimal planting dates, recommended varieties, soil requirements, pest management, and harvest timing. Data sourced from USDA and state extension services.
Monthly Planting Calendar
Visual overview of the corn (maize) growing season in Georgia. Red diamond markers indicate frost date boundaries.
Quick Facts
Min. Soil Temp
55°F (13°C) minimum
Growing Period
100-120 days
From planting to harvest
Last Spring Frost
March 20
Wait until after this date
First Fall Frost
November 5
Harvest before this date
Monthly Task Timeline
Month-by-month guide for managing corn (maize) in Georgia.
January - February
Off-seasonCover crop planting, soil testing, equipment maintenance, and planning for next season.
March - April
PlantPrepare soil, apply starter fertilizer, and sow seeds at recommended depth and spacing.
May - July
Grow & MonitorIrrigate as needed, scout for pests, apply side-dress fertilizer, and manage weeds.
August - September
HarvestCheck maturity indicators, schedule equipment, harvest at optimal moisture content.
October - December
Off-seasonCover crop planting, soil testing, equipment maintenance, and planning for next season.
Best Corn (Maize) Varieties for Georgia
These varieties have proven performance in Georgia's climate and soil conditions. Always source certified seed from reputable dealers.
| # | Variety | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Pioneer P1870YHR | Georgia climate |
| 2 | DeKalb DKC68-69 | Georgia climate |
| 3 | AgriGold A647VT2RIB | Georgia climate |
Growing Tips for Georgia
Region-specific advice from agricultural extension services and experienced Georgia farmers.
South GA: earliest planting dates in the eastern US
Irrigate with center pivot — sandy soils drain fast
Aflatoxin risk increases in drought years — irrigate during grain fill
Rotate with peanuts or cotton to break disease cycles
Pest & Disease Watch
Monitor for these threats throughout the growing season. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is recommended.
Corn borers
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Corn rootworm
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Fall armyworm
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Aphids
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Cutworms
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Companion Planting
These plants grow well alongside corn (maize), improving pest control, pollination, and nutrient availability.
Frost Dates
Last Spring Frost
March 20
Wait until after this date before planting frost-sensitive crops outdoors.
First Fall Frost
November 5
Plan to complete harvest of warm-season crops before this date arrives.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to plant corn (maize) in Georgia?
The optimal planting window for corn (maize) in Georgia is March 15 to April 15. Soil temperature should reach at least 55°F (13°C) minimum before planting. The total growing period is 100-120 days.
What varieties of corn (maize) grow best in Georgia?
The best varieties for Georgia include Pioneer P1870YHR, DeKalb DKC68-69, AgriGold A647VT2RIB. These varieties are adapted to local climate and soil conditions and have proven performance records.
When can I harvest corn (maize) in Georgia?
The harvest window for corn (maize) in Georgia is typically August 1 to September 15. The crop takes 100-120 days from planting to reach maturity.
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Data Sources
Data sourced from USDA NASS Crop Planting Dates, Georgia Cooperative Extension Service, and NOAA frost date records. Last updated: March 2026.
Planting dates are averages and may vary by county, elevation, and local microclimate. Always consult your local extension office for the most precise recommendations.