2026 Planting Guide
Spring cropWhen to Plant Corn (Maize) in North Carolina
Complete guide to growing corn (maize) in North Carolina 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 North Carolina. 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
April 5
Wait until after this date
First Fall Frost
October 25
Harvest before this date
Monthly Task Timeline
Month-by-month guide for managing corn (maize) in North Carolina.
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 North Carolina
These varieties have proven performance in North Carolina's climate and soil conditions. Always source certified seed from reputable dealers.
| # | Variety | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Pioneer P1870YHR | North Carolina climate |
| 2 | DeKalb DKC67-44 | North Carolina climate |
| 3 | Dyna-Gro D57VC65 | North Carolina climate |
Growing Tips for North Carolina
Region-specific advice from agricultural extension services and experienced North Carolina farmers.
Coastal Plain: plant late March; Piedmont: early April
Hurricane season can impact late harvest — plant early hybrids
Nematode pressure common in sandy Coastal Plain soils
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
April 5
Wait until after this date before planting frost-sensitive crops outdoors.
First Fall Frost
October 25
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 North Carolina?
The optimal planting window for corn (maize) in North Carolina is March 25 to April 25. 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 North Carolina?
The best varieties for North Carolina include Pioneer P1870YHR, DeKalb DKC67-44, Dyna-Gro D57VC65. These varieties are adapted to local climate and soil conditions and have proven performance records.
When can I harvest corn (maize) in North Carolina?
The harvest window for corn (maize) in North Carolina is typically August 15 to September 30. 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, North Carolina 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.