Advent Gulch Blue, Heirloom Corn Seeds

Advent Gulch Blue, Heirloom Corn Seeds — The High-Altitude Idaho Landrace With Exceptional Cold-Soil Vigor

Advent Gulch Blue is a high-altitude adapted landrace blue corn bred in Advent Gulch, Western Idaho, near Hell’s Canyon — the result of 40 years of dedicated selection by Idahoan Mike O’Brien to perform exceptionally well in cool soil and higher altitudes. Extremely vigorous in cold soil, with exceptional cold-soil germination and emergence, and early-maturing cobs that make it one of the most practical blue corns for northern and mountain gardens. A mix of flour, flint, and dent corns, Advent Gulch Blue is wonderful for polenta, “corn nuts” (parched corn), and cornbread. Pull back the husks while cobs dry down to prevent mold. Corn seed may be saved after harvest for planting in subsequent years.

Why Grow Advent Gulch Blue?

• 40 years of Idaho high-altitude selection — bred by Mike O’Brien for cold soil and elevation
• Exceptional cold-soil germination — extremely vigorous where other corns struggle
• Early-maturing cobs — practical for short-season and mountain gardens
• Flour, flint, and dent mix — excellent for polenta, parched corn, and cornbread
• Adapted to the Intermountain West — thrives in southern Idaho and similar climates
• Open-pollinated — save seed year after year

Growing Notes

Direct sow outdoors after last frost — exceptional cold-soil germination makes it suitable for early planting at altitude. Plant in blocks of at least 4×4 for good wind pollination. Sow seeds 1 inch deep, 8–12 inches apart. Water consistently. Pull back husks while cobs dry to prevent mold. Save seed from best performers each year.

Packet size: ~25, 50, or 100 seeds
Type: Heirloom, Open-Pollinated, Landrace Blue Corn (Flour/Flint/Dent)
Spacing: 8–12 inches in blocks
Sun: Full sun
USDA Zones: 3–12 (especially suited to high altitude and cool climates)