2026 Planting Guide
Spring cropWhen to Plant Corn (Maize) in Minnesota
Complete guide to growing corn (maize) in Minnesota 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 Minnesota. Red diamond markers indicate frost date boundaries.
Quick Facts
Min. Soil Temp
50°F (10°C) minimum
Growing Period
95-110 days
From planting to harvest
Last Spring Frost
May 5
Wait until after this date
First Fall Frost
September 28
Harvest before this date
Monthly Task Timeline
Month-by-month guide for managing corn (maize) in Minnesota.
January - April
Off-seasonCover crop planting, soil testing, equipment maintenance, and planning for next season.
May
PlantPrepare soil, apply starter fertilizer, and sow seeds at recommended depth and spacing.
June - September
Grow & MonitorIrrigate as needed, scout for pests, apply side-dress fertilizer, and manage weeds.
October - November
HarvestCheck maturity indicators, schedule equipment, harvest at optimal moisture content.
December
Off-seasonCover crop planting, soil testing, equipment maintenance, and planning for next season.
Best Corn (Maize) Varieties for Minnesota
These varieties have proven performance in Minnesota's climate and soil conditions. Always source certified seed from reputable dealers.
| # | Variety | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Pioneer P9998AM | Minnesota climate |
| 2 | DeKalb DKC49-29 | Minnesota climate |
| 3 | Channel 200-05VT2P | Minnesota climate |
| 4 | Dairyland DS-4510AM | Minnesota climate |
Growing Tips for Minnesota
Region-specific advice from agricultural extension services and experienced Minnesota farmers.
Use 95-105 day hybrids in northern MN, 105-110 in south
Ensure adequate drainage — wet springs delay planting
Apply starter fertilizer (2x2 placement) for cold soils
Northern MN: be ready to harvest by late October before snow
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
May 5
Wait until after this date before planting frost-sensitive crops outdoors.
First Fall Frost
September 28
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 Minnesota?
The optimal planting window for corn (maize) in Minnesota is May 1 to May 25. Soil temperature should reach at least 50°F (10°C) minimum before planting. The total growing period is 95-110 days.
What varieties of corn (maize) grow best in Minnesota?
The best varieties for Minnesota include Pioneer P9998AM, DeKalb DKC49-29, Channel 200-05VT2P, Dairyland DS-4510AM. These varieties are adapted to local climate and soil conditions and have proven performance records.
When can I harvest corn (maize) in Minnesota?
The harvest window for corn (maize) in Minnesota is typically October 1 to November 5. The crop takes 95-110 days from planting to reach maturity.
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Data Sources
Data sourced from USDA NASS Crop Planting Dates, Minnesota 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.