When to Plant Corn in Missouri
In a typical Missouri location, sow outdoors Apr 8 – Apr 22. Across the state, the outdoor planting window starts as early as Mar 26 in Sikeston and as late as Apr 21 in Kirksville.
Direct sow at last frost to 2 weeks after, once soil reaches 60F; does not transplant well. Succession sow every 2 weeks.
Corn Planting Dates by City
| City | Direct sow |
|---|---|
| Kansas City | Apr 4 – Apr 18 |
| St. Louis | Apr 1 – Apr 15 |
| Springfield | Apr 4 – Apr 18 |
| Columbia | Apr 5 – Apr 19 |
| Independence | Apr 10 – Apr 24 |
| Lee's Summit | Apr 13 – Apr 27 |
| O'Fallon | Apr 9 – Apr 23 |
| Saint Joseph | Apr 19 – May 3 |
| Saint Charles | Apr 8 – Apr 22 |
| Blue Springs | Apr 7 – Apr 21 |
| Saint Peters | Apr 9 – Apr 23 |
| Florissant | Apr 2 – Apr 16 |
| Joplin | Apr 9 – Apr 23 |
| Chesterfield | Apr 4 – Apr 18 |
| Jefferson City | Apr 8 – Apr 22 |
| Cape Girardeau | Apr 5 – Apr 19 |
| Oakville | Apr 6 – Apr 20 |
| Wildwood | Apr 12 – Apr 26 |
| Wentzville | Apr 10 – Apr 24 |
| University City | Apr 1 – Apr 15 |
| Ballwin | Apr 4 – Apr 18 |
| Liberty | Apr 19 – May 3 |
| Raytown | Apr 10 – Apr 24 |
| Mehlville | Apr 6 – Apr 20 |
| Kirkwood | Apr 1 – Apr 15 |
| Maryland Heights | Apr 2 – Apr 16 |
| Gladstone | Apr 4 – Apr 18 |
| Hazelwood | Apr 2 – Apr 16 |
| Grandview | Apr 7 – Apr 21 |
| Webster Groves | Apr 1 – Apr 15 |
Showing the 30 most populous of 90 Missouri cities. Dates are estimates from each city's NOAA frost normals and university extension timing guidelines. See all Missouri cities.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant corn in Missouri?
In a typical Missouri location, sow outdoors Apr 8 – Apr 22. Across the state, the outdoor planting window starts as early as Mar 26 in Sikeston and as late as Apr 21 in Kirksville.
When is the last frost in Missouri?
The average last spring frost in Missouri ranges from March 26 in Sikeston to April 21 in Kirksville, based on NOAA 1991–2020 climate normals.
How long do corn take to grow?
Corn typically take 60–100 days from planting to harvest. Direct sow at last frost to 2 weeks after, once soil reaches 60F; does not transplant well. Succession sow every 2 weeks.
Other Crops in Missouri
- Tomatoes
- Peppers
- Eggplant
- Cucumbers
- Zucchini
- Winter Squash
- Pumpkins
- Watermelon
- Cantaloupe
- Green Beans
- Peas
- Lettuce
- Spinach
- Kale
- Arugula
- Swiss Chard
- Broccoli
- Cauliflower
- Cabbage
- Brussels Sprouts
- Carrots
- Beets
- Radishes
- Turnips
- Onions
- Garlic
- Potatoes
- Sweet Potatoes
- Asparagus
- Basil
- Cilantro
- Parsley
- Dill
- Oregano
- Thyme
- Sunflowers
- Zinnias
- Marigolds
- Cosmos
- Nasturtiums
- Dahlias
When to plant corn in other states