Corn is a favorite crop of South Carolina gardeners. It's a warm-season vegetable that grows best when temperatures are between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Wait for a warm, dry day to plant your seeds in the Palmetto State.
Planting Dates
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The ideal time to plant corn in South Carolina depends on your part of the state. If you live in the Piedmont--for instance, Abbeville, Greenville or York--Clemson Extension recommends planting your corn April 15 to 30. If you're in the central section--near Aiken, Florence or Sumter--plant from March 20 to April 30. The warm coastal section--around Charleston, Beaufort and Georgetown--can plant corn from March 10 to April 30.
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Soil Temperature
Corn germinates best when the soil temperature is between 60 and 95 degrees Fahrenheit. Cold soil will keep your seeds from sprouting. Clemson Extension recommends a soil temperature at four inches of at least 50 degrees Fahrenheit, with extra-sweet varieties not being planted until the soil reaches 65 degrees Fahrenheit.
Forecast
Do not plant your corn in wet soil. Wait for a weather forecast that shows three or four warm, dry days ahead. These conditions will help you avoid seed rot.