Corn, NK 199 - 1lb

The NK 199 Sweet Corn is a trusted favorite among gardeners and farmers, known for its uniform, tender kernels and classic sweet flavor. With its sturdy stalks, vibrant golden ears, and reliable performance, this variety is perfect for fresh eating, canning, and freezing. Whether you’re planting for a home garden or commercial production, NK 199 corn delivers consistent results and a delightful eating experience.

Key Features

1. Uniform, Tender Kernels

• Bright Gold Kernels: The vibrant color enhances the visual appeal of the ears.
• Delicious Flavor: Sweet and tender, making it ideal for fresh consumption, canning, or freezing.
• Dense Rows: Each ear boasts approximately 20 uniform rows of kernels, ensuring every bite is flavorful and satisfying.

2. Impressive Ear Size

• Produces 8-inch ears with a 2-inch diameter, providing generous yields for each planting.

3. Sturdy, Tall Stalks

• Grows to an average height of 8 feet, ensuring robust support for the developing ears.
• Stalks remain sturdy and resilient, even in challenging growing conditions.

4. Versatile Use

• Perfect for fresh eating straight from the cob.
• Retains flavor and texture when canned or frozen, making it a great choice for year-round enjoyment.

How to Grow

1. Planting the Seeds

• Timing: Sow seeds directly in the garden 2 weeks after the last frost, when the soil temperature reaches 60°F or higher.
• Location: Choose a sunny spot with well-draining, nutrient-rich soil.
• Depth and Spacing:
• Plant seeds 1-1.5 inches deep.
• Space seeds 8-12 inches apart in rows spaced 30-36 inches apart.
• For optimal pollination, plant in blocks of short rows rather than a single long row.

2. Soil Preparation

• Enrich the soil with compost or a balanced vegetable fertilizer before planting.
• Maintain a pH level of 6.0–6.8 for the best results.

3. Watering

• Keep the soil consistently moist, particularly during germination and tasseling stages.
• Avoid waterlogging the soil, as it can lead to poor root development.

4. Fertilization

• Apply nitrogen-rich fertilizer when plants are 12 inches tall and again when tassels appear.
• Avoid over-fertilizing, which can lead to excessive foliage at the expense of ear development.

5. Pest and Disease Management

• Monitor for common corn pests like corn earworms or aphids. Use organic or chemical pest control methods as needed.
• Rotate crops yearly to reduce the risk of soil-borne diseases.

Harvesting NK 199 Corn

1. When to Harvest

• Corn is ready for harvest 18-22 days after silk first appears.
• Look for full, plump kernels that are milky when pierced with a fingernail.

2. Harvesting Process

• Hold the stalk firmly and twist the ear downward to detach it cleanly.
• For best flavor, harvest in the morning and use immediately or preserve quickly.

Storage and Preservation

1. Fresh Use

• Consume freshly harvested corn within 1-2 days for the best taste and texture.

2. Freezing

• Blanch ears in boiling water for 4-6 minutes, cool rapidly in ice water, and freeze whole or cut into kernels.

3. Canning

• Process corn according to USDA guidelines for safe home canning.

Why Choose NK 199 Corn?

Let's note why NK 199 Corn is the best choice:

• Classic Flavor and Texture: The sweet, tender kernels of NK 199 are a timeless favorite, providing a perfect balance of flavor and texture for fresh eating or preservation.
• Reliable Performance: With uniform ears, sturdy stalks, and dense rows of kernels, this variety delivers consistent results season after season.
• High Yield Potential: The 8-inch ears and tall, resilient stalks ensure a productive harvest, making it suitable for both small gardens and large-scale farming.
• Versatility in the Kitchen: NK 199 corn is a versatile staple for fresh salads, grilling, steaming, or preserving for off-season enjoyment.
• Adaptability: Thrives in a variety of climates and soil conditions, making it a go-to choice for growers in diverse regions.

Culinary Uses

• Fresh: Grill, steam, or boil the ears for a classic side dish.
• Soups and Chowders: Add kernels to hearty soups for sweetness and texture.
• Preserved: Freeze or can for use in casseroles, salads, and cornbread recipes year-round.

Tips for Success with NK 199 Corn

1. Ensure Pollination: Plant in blocks rather than single rows to maximize pollination and ear development.
2. Regular Feeding: Feed plants with a balanced fertilizer at key growth stages for robust ear formation.
3. Weed Control: Keep rows weed-free to reduce competition for nutrients and water.
4. Monitor for Pests: Protect ears with physical barriers like paper bags if pests are prevalent.