2026 Planting Guide
Spring cropWhen to Plant Corn (Maize) in Pennsylvania
Complete guide to growing corn (maize) in Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania. Red diamond markers indicate frost date boundaries.
Quick Facts
Min. Soil Temp
50°F (10°C) minimum
Growing Period
100-115 days
From planting to harvest
Last Spring Frost
April 28
Wait until after this date
First Fall Frost
October 8
Harvest before this date
Monthly Task Timeline
Month-by-month guide for managing corn (maize) in Pennsylvania.
January - March
Off-seasonCover crop planting, soil testing, equipment maintenance, and planning for next season.
April - 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 Pennsylvania
These varieties have proven performance in Pennsylvania's climate and soil conditions. Always source certified seed from reputable dealers.
| # | Variety | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Pioneer P1185AM | Pennsylvania climate |
| 2 | DeKalb DKC61-40 | Pennsylvania climate |
| 3 | Channel 209-17VT2P | Pennsylvania climate |
Growing Tips for Pennsylvania
Region-specific advice from agricultural extension services and experienced Pennsylvania farmers.
Silage corn for dairy — harvest at 30-35% whole plant dry matter
Many fields are no-till — use appropriate planters and residue managers
Limestone application critical on acidic PA 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 28
Wait until after this date before planting frost-sensitive crops outdoors.
First Fall Frost
October 8
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 Pennsylvania?
The optimal planting window for corn (maize) in Pennsylvania is April 25 to May 25. Soil temperature should reach at least 50°F (10°C) minimum before planting. The total growing period is 100-115 days.
What varieties of corn (maize) grow best in Pennsylvania?
The best varieties for Pennsylvania include Pioneer P1185AM, DeKalb DKC61-40, Channel 209-17VT2P. These varieties are adapted to local climate and soil conditions and have proven performance records.
When can I harvest corn (maize) in Pennsylvania?
The harvest window for corn (maize) in Pennsylvania is typically October 1 to November 5. The crop takes 100-115 days from planting to reach maturity.
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Data Sources
Data sourced from USDA NASS Crop Planting Dates, Pennsylvania 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.