Sweet corn, a dietary staple for centuries, is a rich source of vitamins, minerals and protein. This flavorful vegetable is classified in three unique types (normal sugary, sugar enhancer and super sweet) depending on the gene that controls the level of sugar within each kernel. For most varieties of sweet corn, it takes 50 to 90 days from planting to harvest of edible ears. For best flavor, cook and eat sweet corn immediately after harvest.
Allow corn to ripen on the stalk. Seed corn will be ready to harvest 4 to 6 weeks after all edible corn has been harvested.
Pull husks back to inspect ears of corn for signs of insect or worm infestation. Discard any infected specimens.
Attach corn to hangers, by the husks, with clothes pins and hang them in a dark, dry, cool location to dry. Thorough drying can take from 2 to 3 months.
Check ears of corn for off-color or smooth kernels. Remove these kernels before shelling, as these seeds will produce inferior plants when propagated.
Shell seed corn into a large bowl by gripping the ear with both hands and twisting each hand in opposite directions to dislodge kernels.
Store seed corn in an airtight jar, labeled with the corn variety and date of harvest.