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Determining the ideal time for sweetcorn harvest: Two effective methods for ensured succulent, ripe cobs

Checking the readiness of sweetcorn: Two methods to determine their maturity - the kernel test and the tassel test...

Checking the readiness of your sweetcorn for plump, flavorful cobs: Here are the top methods
Checking the readiness of your sweetcorn for plump, flavorful cobs: Here are the top methods

Determining the ideal time for sweetcorn harvest: Two effective methods for ensured succulent, ripe cobs

Sophie King, the Gardens Editor at our platform, joined the team in June 2024. With a love for gardening and a knack for spotting the latest garden trends, she's always ready to share her knowledge with fellow green-fingered enthusiasts.

One of the key vegetables that can be harvested in September is sweetcorn. Jane Westoby, creative director at The Hampshire Seed Company, offers some advice on determining when sweetcorn is ready for picking.

Two tests, the kernel test and the tassel test, can help determine the ideal harvest time for sweetcorn. The kernel test involves peeling back the husk slightly and pressing your thumbnail into a kernel. If a milky liquid oozes out, the corn is ready for harvesting. On the other hand, if the liquid is clear, the sweetcorn needs a bit longer to ripen.

The tassels at the top of the sweetcorn husk can also be used to determine when to harvest. When the tassels turn brown, start to shrivel, and go brittle, the kernels have been pollinated and should be ready to harvest.

To harvest sweetcorn, twist and tug the cobs firmly downwards, away from the stem. Secateurs like the WOLF-Garten Bypass Secateurs can be used to make the job easier.

It's important to pick sweetcorn at the right time for juicy, tasty cobs. Freshly harvested sweetcorn is perfect for grilling food, especially on charcoal BBQs. However, sweet corn sugars start turning to starch as soon as it's picked, so for the sweetest taste, harvest it and get it straight into the pan or onto the BBQ.

Sophie enjoys sharing growing hacks for every space, from herbaceous borders to balconies. So, whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting out, you'll find her tips invaluable.

Unfortunately, we couldn't find specific information about Lucie Bradley or the company she works for in the provided search results. Nevertheless, with advice from experts like Jane Westoby and Sophie King, you're well on your way to a bountiful sweetcorn harvest this autumn.

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