Organic 'Blue Jade Sweet' Sweetcorn
Organic 'Blue Jade' sweet corn (Zea mays) from Gaia Seeds, a unique miniature blue corn, sweet and perfect for small spaces
'Blue Jade' sweet corn is a rare heirloom variety, prized for its deep blue kernels and miniature size, ideal for small gardens and container growing. The 3- to 4-foot plants bear 2 to 5 ears each, initially white, then jade blue at maturity. Their flavor is rich, sweet , and surprisingly intense for a dwarf corn. Heat-tolerant and suited to well-drained soils, it provides a striking ornamental display in addition to being delicious when eaten fresh.
Companion plants : Bean, Squash, Melon, Amaranth, Cucumber, Pea, Parsley, Potato, Pumpkin, Tansy, Sunflower
Nefarious plants : Tomato, Celery
Spread/Habit : Short stems with several small spikes
Plant height : 90 to 120 cm
Quantity per packet : 50 seeds
Certification : Certified organic by Ecocert Canada
Special features : Jade blue kernels, compact variety, very sweet, 2–5 ears per stem, ideal for small spaces
Leaf color : Bright green
Texture/flavor : Soft, tender grains, rich flavor
Cold tolerance : Poor tolerance (warm plant)
Farming method
Soak the seeds for up to 12 hours in lukewarm water to promote germination. Sow directly when the soil temperature reaches 19°C (66°F ). Cover the seeds with soil 2.5–5 cm (1–2 inches) deep. Place in full sun (level 3) and water generously (level 3). Space plants 20–25 cm ( 8–10 inches) apart and rows 60–90 cm (24–35 inches) . Sow in clumps rather than rows to improve pollination. Germination takes 5–8 days at temperatures between 15–32°C (59–90°F) (optimum 29–90°C/84–90°F).
Harvesting and preservation
Harvest when the silks are dry , the kernels are firm , and the blue color is fully developed. To preserve sugar content, cool the ears to 0°C within one hour of harvesting and keep them in a very humid environment. Consume quickly, as sweetness diminishes over time.
Usage ideas
• Steamed or grilled to appreciate its unique sweet flavor
• In colorful buttercorn to surprise at the table
• In grains, in salads or summer salsas
• In miniature cobs, perfect for barbecue platters
• As an edible ornamental corn in pots or borders
'Blue Jade' sweet corn combines exceptional beauty, remarkable sweetness, and adaptability to small spaces. An irresistible heirloom variety for curious gardeners and gourmets alike.
