How to Grow Dazzling Rainbow Corn Too Pretty to Eat

Rainbow corn, also known as Glass Gem, is one of the most eye-catching crops you can grow. With its multicolored kernels and deep heirloom roots, it offers more than just visual appeal. Whether you’re drawn to its ornamental value or curious about its culinary uses, growing this corn at home is both rewarding and surprisingly accessible.

What is rainbow corn?

Rainbow corn, often referred to as Glass Gem corn, is a stunning heirloom variety known for its jewel-toned kernels. Unlike sweet corn, it is a type of flint corn typically used for ornamental purposes, popcorn, or grinding into meal. Each ear showcases a unique blend of colors, including blues, purples, pinks, oranges, and translucent whites.

The origin and story behind it

Rainbow corn was developed by Carl Barnes, a Cherokee farmer in Oklahoma, who spent years selecting and preserving native corn varieties. Through careful seed saving and traditional breeding, he enhanced the vivid coloration in the kernels. The variety gained international attention after photos of its shimmering appearance went viral online, inspiring gardeners and seed savers alike.

Types and seed sources

Glass Gem is the most widely recognized variety of rainbow corn and is typically available from heirloom seed companies or seed libraries. Look for vendors that specialize in non-GMO, open-pollinated seeds to preserve the integrity of the variety. Saving seeds from your own harvest can continue the tradition of color diversity and resilience.

Where and when to grow rainbow corn

Rainbow corn grows best in areas with a long, warm growing season. It can be planted once the soil has warmed to at least 60 degrees Fahrenheit, usually in late spring. Choose a full sun location with well-drained soil and avoid planting too close to sweet corn varieties to prevent cross-pollination.

How to plant rainbow corn

Prepare the planting area by enriching the soil with compost or aged manure before sowing seeds. Plant seeds about one inch deep and space them 8 to 10 inches apart in short rows arranged in a block formation, which improves pollination. Avoid planting in single rows, as poor pollination can lead to incomplete ears.

Growing and caring for your crop

Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during flowering and ear development. Corn is a heavy feeder, so side-dress with compost or apply a balanced fertilizer a few weeks after seedlings emerge. Monitor for pests such as aphids and corn earworms and consider using organic treatments or companion plants like beans or marigolds for natural protection.

Harvesting and drying your rainbow corn

Rainbow corn is ready to harvest when the husks turn brown and dry and the kernels feel hard to the touch. Once harvested, hang the ears in a well-ventilated, dry location to cure for several weeks. After drying, the corn can be shelled by hand and stored in airtight containers to maintain color and prevent moisture damage.

Ways to use rainbow corn

Its vivid colors make rainbow corn a popular choice for autumn decor, wreaths, and centerpieces. It can also be popped for a slightly crunchy popcorn with a subtle nutty flavor. For those interested in cooking, the kernels can be ground into a fine cornmeal and used in cornbread, tortillas, or grits.

Conclusion

Rainbow corn is a stunning reminder of the beauty and diversity found in traditional crops. With the right conditions and a bit of care, you can grow your own dazzling harvest to display, pop, or mill. It’s a colorful way to connect with gardening history and enjoy something truly unique in your backyard.