Reid's Yellow Corn, 1866 Heirloom,

Developed by Scottish immigrant James L. Reid on his farm near Springfield, Illinois:

1. 1846: Reid crossed Northern white dent (Gordon Hopkins) with Southern yellow corn (likely from Kentucky).
2. 1846–1866: 20 years of selective breeding for yield, uniformity, and yellow color.
3. 1866: Commercial release – exploded in popularity, dominating Illinois fields by 1900.
   Reid never patented it, sharing freely to benefit farmers. Today, preserved by seed savers like Seed Savers Exchange.

Sow directly outdoors for best results – corn thrives on wind pollination!

1. Timing: After last frost when soil reaches 60°F (mid-May in most zones).
2. Soil Prep: Full sun, fertile loam (pH 6.0–6.8). Amend with compost/manure; 1 lb nitrogen/100 sq ft.
3. Planting Method:
   • In blocks (not single rows) for pollination: 4x4 minimum (25 plants).
   • Space seeds 8–12 inches apart, rows 30–36 inches apart (1–2 oz/100 ft row).
   • Depth: 1–2 inches; firm soil over seeds.
4. Water/Fertilizer: Keep moist until sprouting (7–10 days). Side-dress with nitrogen at knee-high. Thin to strongest plants.
5. Spacing Tip: Plant 500+ ft from other corn varieties to avoid cross-pollination.

Expect tasseling in 50–60 days; silks follow.

Harvest at full dent stage for maximum quality – dry weather preferred!

1. Timing: 110–120 days post-planting, when husks dry/brown and kernels are hard/dented (milk line gone). Test by puncturing: no milky juice.
2. Method:
   • Pull ears downward with a snap, leaving husks on.
   • Hang in a dry, airy spot (80–100°F) for 2–4 weeks until kernels <15% moisture (brittle shell).
   • Shell by hand/rubbing or use a corn sheller.
3. Yield: 8–10 ears per 10 ft row.
4. Storage: In airtight bins; lasts 2+ years. For seed saving, select best 10–20 ears and isolate.
5. Uses Post-Harvest: Grind for meal (nixtamalize for tortillas), feed livestock, or pop (select flatter kernels).

Pro Tip: In humid areas, harvest early and finish drying indoors to prevent mold.

Grow the legacy at Firefly Farm & Mercantile – order your Reid's Yellow Dent Corn seeds today and bring Corn Belt history to your patch! 🌽 Questions? Email fireflyfarm@shop.com. Limited stock – heirloom seeds sell fast!