Find U-Pick Corn Farms
Are you looking to pick your own corn? There’s a unique sense of satisfaction in plucking fresh ears of corn straight from the stalk. Corn, a versatile and iconic American crop, is a staple ingredient in many dishes, and picking your own guarantees you will have the freshest ears possible.
Picking your own corn is not a very popular activity but there are some farms that allow this. Some u-pick corn farms also allow you to take the stalk, mostly used for Fall decorations.
The Corn Picking Experience
Corn picking is an engaging and educational experience for the whole family. Depending on when you go corn picking, you may be looking for just the stalks used for decorations. Most places where you can get corn or corn stalks will also have corn mazes, pumpkin picking and other Fall activities. If you’re looking to pick your own corn to eat then there can be an element of surprise – until you peel back the husk, you won’t know exactly what you’re getting.
Where To Go To Pick Your Own Corn
Corn grows abundantly in many parts of the United States due to its adaptability to different soil types and climates. However, some regions are particularly known for their exceptional corn crops.
Iowa stands out as a major corn-growing state, boasting vast expanses of cornfields. Picking corn in Iowa provides a typical Midwest experience.
Nebraska, another Midwest state, is also known for its rich corn production. With the wide open spaces filled with tall, verdant cornstalks, corn picking in Nebraska is a memorable experience.
In the Eastern United States, Illinois offers numerous U-pick farms where visitors can enjoy the activity of corn picking. The state’s fertile soils contribute to high-quality corn crops.
California, due to its diverse climates and long growing season, is also a great state for corn production. U-pick farms in California often grow several varieties of corn, offering pickers a unique chance to compare different types of this versatile crop.
Corn Picking Season
The corn picking season can vary depending on local climates. Typically, corn needs warm soil to germinate and a long, hot growing season to mature. This means that the corn season often aligns with the heat of summer.
In most parts of the United States, the corn picking season generally begins in July and can last until October, depending on the specific variety and local climate conditions. Early-maturing varieties can sometimes be ready for picking in June, while late-maturing varieties can keep producing ears well into the autumn.
In states with particularly long growing seasons like California, corn can be planted and harvested in several cycles, potentially extending the corn picking season.
Be sure to confirm the picking dates with your local U-pick farm to ensure they are offering corn before heading out to the farm.
Tips For A Successful Corn Picking Experience
When preparing for your corn picking adventure, remember to dress for the weather. A hat and sunscreen are essential to protect you from the summer sun, and sturdy shoes will keep your feet comfortable as you navigate the fields.
When choosing ears of corn, look for husks that are green and fresh-looking, not dry and yellowed. The silks at the top of the ear should be brown and sticky, not dry. You can also feel the ear through the husk to ensure the kernels are plump and that they fill up the ear all the way to the tip.
Picking corn is a unique experience that connects you to the land and the food you eat. Whether you enjoy your corn boiled, grilled, or turned into popcorn, knowing you picked it yourself will make it taste that much sweeter.
Find your state below to find a farm that may offer u-pick corn. Not all farms have corn picking available and some may only offer the corn stalk as a decorative piece. Be sure to verify the open season, hours of operation and if the farm is currently offering corn before driving to that farm.
With our state county maps, it’s easy to see where in your state you can find u-pick corn farms. The green highlighted counties will show you farms that offer corn picking.
Gray States: If you see your state in gray that means we do not currently have a u-pick corn farm listed there. We are adding new u-pick farms all of the time, so if you do not see a farm in your state please come back soon. If you know of a farm that is missing, please help us by adding the farm here.
We also know that corn isn’t a popular item to pick and not all farms that list that they have corn actually allow u-pickers.
