Painted Mountain Corn is a resilient and visually stunning flint corn developed over 30 years by Montana farmer Dave Christensen. Created specifically to thrive in northern climates, this variety is known for strong early germination in cool soil, resistance to drought, and reliable early harvests. The cobs mature quickly and show a wide spectrum of vivid colours, making them a delight in the garden and a standout for ornamental use.

Kernels are sweet and tender enough to be enjoyed fresh when young, but Painted Mountain is best known as a superb flour and meal corn once dried. Its rich taste and exceptional nutritional content make it a favourite among home gardeners, homesteaders, and seed savers alike.

Where Can You Grow Painted Mountain Corn?
Painted Mountain Corn is well suited to Zones 3–9. It performs especially well in cool, short-season regions and poor soils, but will thrive with full sun and moderate watering even in more fertile gardens.

History and Historical Uses
This remarkable corn was developed by crossing and refining over 70 traditional Indigenous and heirloom corn varieties, selected for their early maturity and hardiness. Dave Christensen began the project in the 1970s as a way to create a corn that could survive in the challenging climate of Montana while maintaining high nutrition and genetic diversity. Painted Mountain is now used worldwide by small-scale growers seeking resilient, open-pollinated seed.

Canadian Zone Information
Zones 8–9: Direct sow in late spring after the last frost; harvest early for fresh use or allow to dry fully for grain.
Zones 5–7: Sow once soil has warmed; consider starting indoors in short seasons.
Zones 3–4: Start indoors or choose the warmest, most protected garden spot; mulch to retain soil warmth and moisture.

How to Grow and Harvest Painted Mountain Corn

Planting: Sow seeds 2–4cm (¾–1½in) deep, 20cm (8in) apart in blocks for best pollination.
Watering: Moderate water; drought tolerant once established.
Harvesting: Harvest fresh for eating young, or leave cobs on the stalk to fully dry before harvest.
Maintenance: Ensure close planting for good pollination; support stalks if exposed to wind.

Seed Saving Tips for Future Supply

Select Strong Plants: Save seeds from the earliest, healthiest and most productive cobs.
Dry Thoroughly: Dry cobs completely before shelling.
Store Well: Store kernels in a dry, dark place in breathable containers.
Viability: Seeds remain viable for 3–5 years if stored properly.

Certified Organic By
Islands Organics Producers Association (Cert#1962)