2026 Planting Guide
Winter cropWhen to Plant Corn (Maize) in Texas
Complete guide to growing corn (maize) in Texas 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 Texas. Red diamond markers indicate frost date boundaries.
Quick Facts
Min. Soil Temp
55°F (13°C) minimum
Growing Period
90-120 days
From planting to harvest
Last Spring Frost
March 15
Wait until after this date
First Fall Frost
November 15
Harvest before this date
Monthly Task Timeline
Month-by-month guide for managing corn (maize) in Texas.
January
Off-seasonCover crop planting, soil testing, equipment maintenance, and planning for next season.
February - March
PlantPrepare soil, apply starter fertilizer, and sow seeds at recommended depth and spacing.
April - June
Grow & MonitorIrrigate as needed, scout for pests, apply side-dress fertilizer, and manage weeds.
July - August
HarvestCheck maturity indicators, schedule equipment, harvest at optimal moisture content.
September - December
Off-seasonCover crop planting, soil testing, equipment maintenance, and planning for next season.
Best Corn (Maize) Varieties for Texas
These varieties have proven performance in Texas's climate and soil conditions. Always source certified seed from reputable dealers.
| # | Variety | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Pioneer P1828AMXT | Texas climate |
| 2 | DeKalb DKC67-44 | Texas climate |
| 3 | Dyna-Gro D57VC65 | Texas climate |
Growing Tips for Texas
Region-specific advice from agricultural extension services and experienced Texas farmers.
South TX plants as early as February; Panhandle waits until April
Irrigate consistently — TX heat stress reduces yield rapidly
Use drought-tolerant hybrids in western regions
Watch for sugarcane aphid in late season
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 15
Wait until after this date before planting frost-sensitive crops outdoors.
First Fall Frost
November 15
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 Texas?
The optimal planting window for corn (maize) in Texas is February 20 to March 30. Soil temperature should reach at least 55°F (13°C) minimum before planting. The total growing period is 90-120 days.
What varieties of corn (maize) grow best in Texas?
The best varieties for Texas include Pioneer P1828AMXT, 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 Texas?
The harvest window for corn (maize) in Texas is typically July 1 to August 30. The crop takes 90-120 days from planting to reach maturity.
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Data Sources
Data sourced from USDA NASS Crop Planting Dates, Texas 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.