The Ultimate Guide to Growing Your Own Popcorn: 7 Fantastic Varieties
Popcorn – a beloved snack that is perfect for movie nights and snacking. But did you know that it can also be good for you? As a whole grain, it is high in fiber and can help raise serotonin levels, improving your mood.
If you are looking to add a fun and unique touch to your garden, why not try growing your very own popcorn? With a variety of colorful options available, there is sure to be a type that catches your eye. Let’s explore some of the best varieties of popcorn that you can grow at home!
7 of the Best Popcorn Varieties
- Carousel
- Glass Gem
- Robust Yellow Hulles
- Shaman‘s Blue
- Snow Puff
- Strawberry
- Tap Dancer
Some Things to Know Before You Grow
Growing popcorn is similar to growing regular sweet corn, but there are a few key differences to keep in mind. For example, it is not advisable to grow both popcorn and sweet corn in the same garden as they can cross-pollinate and affect the quality of both crops.
Each ear of popcorn yields approximately one serving, and plants typically produce one or two ears. Popcorn matures in about 100 days, giving you plenty of time to plan your movie night.
Now, let’s dive into the specifics of each variety and how you can grow them at home!
1. Carousel
If you have a passion for rainbow-colored veggies, Carousel popcorn is a must-have in your garden. This sweet-tasting cultivar produces vividly colored mini ears that are perfect for snacking. The tiny kernels pop up to be tender and crispy, making them ideal for movie nights. You can even grind the dried kernels into cornmeal for other uses.
2. Glass Gem
Glass Gem popcorn is a visually stunning variety that will capture your heart with its colorful kernels. From translucent blues to vibrant reds, this rainbow crop is a sight to behold. Known for its multi-colored shades, Glass Gem popcorn is not only beautiful but also delicious when popped. It takes 80 days to reach maturity and thrives in warm, sunny conditions.
3. Robust Yellow Hulles
With thin hulls that make for easy popping, Robust Yellow Hulles popcorn is a Native American variety that is highly productive and tasty. Its exploding kernels are perfect for making delicious popcorn, making it a popular choice for home gardeners. Expect about 110 days to maturity with this variety.
4. Shaman‘s Blue
Shaman’s Blue popcorn is a unique blue hybrid that is both visually striking and nutritious. The dark blue kernels contain antioxidants that set them apart from traditional yellow varieties. Originally from the Andes Mountains of Peru, this variety has gained popularity for its disease resistance and flour quality. You can grow Shaman’s Blue popcorn in Zones 3 to 12 and enjoy the large, white, sweet popcorn it produces.
5. Snow Puff
Snow Puff popcorn is an F1 hybrid that produces high yields of sweet, white corn perfect for popping. The kernels have exceptionally thin hulls, making them ideal for movie nights. This variety grows eight-inch ears on tall stalks and requires full sun to thrive.
6. Strawberry
Described as a “pop star” by Burpee, Strawberry popcorn is an heirloom variety that produces miniature ears filled with ruby red kernels. This decorative variety resembles large red strawberries and is perfect for adding a fun touch to your garden. Harvest in about 100 days for a colorful popcorn experience.
7. Tap Dancer
Tap Dancer popcorn is an heirloom variety that produces kernels in white, purple, and yellow colors. The six-and-a-half-inch ears are perfect for harvesting in 115 days and adding a touch of whimsy to your garden.
With such a variety of colorful and delicious options, growing your own popcorn is a fun and rewarding experience. Whether you prefer traditional yellow kernels or vibrant rainbow colors, there is a popcorn variety that is sure to make movie nights even more enjoyable.
Have you tried growing popcorn in your garden? Share your experience in the comments below! Happy popping!
