Tuxana Corn
Tuxana Corn seeds produce an open-pollinated sweet corn with bright white, juicy kernels arranged in 14 to 18 neat rows on full 8-inch ears — a performance that held its own against hybrid varieties in on-farm trials two years running. Bred by Jonathan Spero of Lupine Knoll Farm through careful selection from a cross between an Anasazi landrace corn and Tuxedo (a sugary-enhanced variety), Tuxana carries genuine heirloom character with practical garden productivity. Most plants reliably set two ears, making efficient use of garden space.
Growing Guide
Tuxana reaches maturity in approximately 75 to 85 days from direct sowing, depending on conditions. Plant in full sun — corn demands at least 8 hours of direct sunlight daily for strong stalk development and full ear fill. Direct sow seeds 1 inch deep after the last frost date, once soil temperature has reached a consistent 60°F (16°C) or warmer. Space seeds 9 to 12 inches apart within rows, with rows set 30 to 36 inches apart. For reliable pollination, plant in blocks of at least four rows rather than single long rows — corn is wind-pollinated and block planting dramatically improves kernel set. Succession sow every two to three weeks through early summer for a staggered harvest. Tuxana performs well in rich, well-drained soil with consistent moisture; side-dress with a balanced fertiliser or compost when stalks reach knee height to support heavy ear production. This variety suits gardeners of all experience levels, though it rewards attentive watering during silking.
Harvest & Use
Timing is everything with Tuxana. The peak eating window is short — check ears frequently once silks have browned and pull back a husk to confirm the kernels are plump, glossy, and release a milky liquid when pressed. Do not leave ears on the stalk past this stage, as quality declines quickly in the field. Once harvested, cook ears the same day for the sweetest flavour; sugar conversion begins as soon as corn is picked. Tuxana shines simply prepared — steamed, boiled, or grilled — where its clean, sweet flavour and tender white kernels speak for themselves. Surplus ears can be blanched and frozen, though fresh eating is where this variety truly excels. Its dual-ear habit per plant makes it a practical choice for small-to-medium plots where yield per square foot matters.
A thoughtfully bred open-pollinated sweet corn with the lineage to back up its flavour — Tuxana earns its place in the garden on taste alone.
