Various kernel colors are selected for ceremonies and feast foods, and pollen is collected for ceremonial and medicinal purposes. In early spring just before last frost, or with summer rains in the low desert, plant seeds 1 inch deep in rows, clumps, or basins. If saving seeds, a minimum of 100 plants is desirable to maintain genetic diversity.
Corn needs rich soil and moisture to produce a crop.
Drought stress, high winds, heat and low humidity can all reduce pollination. Hand pollinating can ensure full ears of kernels. Ideally, ears should be field dried before harvesting. However, sweet corns allowed to dry on the stalk during high temperatures can ferment, ruining the seed. Dry seeds thoroughly before storing.