When to Plant Sweet Corn in South Dakota
In South Dakota, the time to sow sweet corn outside runs from May 3 – May 17 in Sioux Falls to May 19 – Jun 2 in Box Elder. In Sioux Falls, it's May 3 – May 17. The average last spring frost differs by about 2 weeks across the state (Apr 26 in Sioux Falls, May 12 in Box Elder), so use the dates for the town nearest you.
Sow corn in blocks rather than single rows so it pollinates well. Wait for soil around 60°F.
- Sow outside: 1–3 weeks after the last frost.
Sweet Corn planting dates in South Dakota by city
| City | Zone | Sow outside |
|---|---|---|
| Aberdeen | 4a | May 15 – May 29 |
| Belle Fourche | 5b | May 17 – May 31 |
| Box Elder | 5b | May 19 – Jun 2 |
| Brandon | 5a | May 8 – May 22 |
| Brookings | 4b | May 13 – May 27 |
| Harrisburg | 5a | May 9 – May 23 |
| Huron | 4b | May 13 – May 27 |
| Madison | 4b | May 12 – May 26 |
| Mitchell | 5a | May 9 – May 23 |
| Pierre | 4b | May 13 – May 27 |
| Rapid City | 5b | May 10 – May 24 |
| Sioux Falls | 5a | May 3 – May 17 |
| Spearfish | 5b | May 19 – Jun 2 |
| Sturgis | 5a | May 15 – May 29 |
| Tea | 5a | May 3 – May 17 |
| Vermillion | 5a | May 10 – May 24 |
| Watertown | 4b | May 14 – May 28 |
| Yankton | 5a | May 4 – May 18 |
Calculated from each town's average (50%) frost dates, from the nearest NOAA station (1991–2020). Typical dates for the 2027 planting season, based on NOAA's 1991–2020 averages. They are long-term odds, not a forecast: always check your local forecast before planting. Zones: 2023 USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map (USDA-ARS and Oregon State University). Not the official map; see planthardiness.ars.usda.gov.
See all frost dates in South Dakota, or the general guide to when to plant sweet corn.
Getting beds ready? Work out how much raised bed soil, compost or mulch you need with our sister site, Yard Coverage.