Painted Hills Sweet Corn, Heirloom Seeds

Painted Hills, Heirloom Sweet Corn Seeds — The Multi-Colored Open-Pollinated Corn for Cool Soils and Short Seasons

Developed by Alan Kapuler from a cross of heirloom ‘Luther Hill’ and ‘Painted Mountain’ flour corn, Painted Hills is a multi-colored open-pollinated sweet corn that thrives where other varieties struggle — in cooler soils, short growing seasons, and the Midwest. Ears measure 7–8 inches and can be harvested for fresh eating when kernels are white to lightly colored, or left to mature for a vibrant ornamental display. The flavor is complex and robust, less sweet than hybrid varieties but packed with nutrients and antioxidants. Each stalk produces two or more ears, and the colorful kernels intensify as they dry. Drought-tolerant and suitable for gardens and raised beds. 70–85 days.

Why Grow Painted Hills?

• Bred by Alan Kapuler — from Luther Hill and Painted Mountain heritage
• Thrives in cool soils and short seasons — ideal for northern and Midwest gardens
• 7–8 inch ears — two or more per stalk
• Complex, robust flavor — packed with nutrients and antioxidants
• Dual-purpose — fresh eating or ornamental display as kernels intensify with drying
• Drought-tolerant — reliable in challenging conditions

Growing Notes

Direct sow outdoors after last frost — thrives in cool, wet soils. Plant in blocks of at least 4×4 for good wind pollination. Sow seeds 1 inch deep, 8–12 inches apart, in rows 30–36 inches apart. Water consistently. Harvest at the white-to-lightly-colored kernel stage for fresh eating, or allow to fully dry for ornamental use.

Days to maturity: 70–85 days
Packet size: ~25, 50, or 100 seeds
Type: Heirloom, Open-Pollinated, Sweet/Ornamental Corn
Ear size: 7–8 inches
Spacing: 8–12 inches in blocks
Sun: Full sun
USDA Zones: 3–12