2026 Planting Guide
Spring cropWhen to Plant Corn (Maize) in Wisconsin
Complete guide to growing corn (maize) in Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin. 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 Wisconsin.
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 Wisconsin
These varieties have proven performance in Wisconsin's climate and soil conditions. Always source certified seed from reputable dealers.
| # | Variety | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Dairyland DS-4510AM | Wisconsin climate |
| 2 | Pioneer P9998AM | Wisconsin climate |
| 3 | DeKalb DKC46-20 | Wisconsin climate |
Growing Tips for Wisconsin
Region-specific advice from agricultural extension services and experienced Wisconsin farmers.
Silage corn dominant for dairy farms — harvest at 65% moisture
Use shorter-season hybrids (90-100 day) in northern counties
Manure management critical — calibrate application rates
Watch for gray leaf spot in no-till fields
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 Wisconsin?
The optimal planting window for corn (maize) in Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin?
The best varieties for Wisconsin include Dairyland DS-4510AM, Pioneer P9998AM, DeKalb DKC46-20. These varieties are adapted to local climate and soil conditions and have proven performance records.
When can I harvest corn (maize) in Wisconsin?
The harvest window for corn (maize) in Wisconsin 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, Wisconsin 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.