How to Grow Popcorn

Updated June 2026

A warm-season fruiting for the home garden across the warmer US.

What it looks like as it grows

Popcorn is a rewarding warm-season crop for backyard growers.

When to plant

Plant Popcorn in spring once the soil has warmed and all frost has passed. In the warmest regions a second crop is possible in late summer. See your region on the popcorn page for exact timing.

Varieties

Strawberry, Ornamental and poppable (Baker Creek)
Robust Yellow, Reliable popping hybrid (Johnny's Selected Seeds)

How to grow it

Sun & soil: full sun, rich well-drained soil with even moisture.
Spacing: about 12 in between plants.
Sowing: sow about 1.25 in deep.
Water: roughly 1.6 gal per plant every 3 days in hot weather.

Pests & problems

Watch for Corn earworm and Birds. In humid regions, Rust and Smut can appear, so space for airflow and water at the roots in the morning.

Harvest

Popcorn is usually ready to harvest in about 4 months. Pick regularly to keep plants productive.

When to plant in your region

Pick your region to see exactly when to plant popcorn where you garden.

See what to plant this month

Pick your region for a month-by-month calendar tuned to your climate.

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