10 Heirloom Vegetables to Grow: Best Heritage Garden Guide

2. Growing Glass Gem Corn: A Rainbow of Heritage

Cultural Heritage & Appearance

Glass Gem Corn represents a stunning piece of Native American agricultural heritage. Originally developed by Carl Barnes, a part-Cherokee farmer from Oklahoma, this heirloom variety produces ears with translucent kernels that shine like a rainbow of polished glass. Each ear is unique, displaying an incredible array of colors from deep blues and purples to reds, pinks, and pearly whites.

Nutritional Profile

Unlike modern sweet corn, Glass Gem Corn offers:

Higher levels of anthocyanins and antioxidants
Enhanced protein content
Superior mineral composition
Better fiber content
Rich source of traditional corn nutrients

Growing Guidelines

For successful cultivation, consider these essential factors:

Plant in full sun with rich, well-draining soil
Maintain soil temperature of at least 60°F (15°C)
Space plants 12-15 inches apart
Rows should be 30-36 inches apart
Requires 90-120 days to reach maturity

Harvesting & Processing

Follow these steps for optimal results:

Allow ears to mature fully on the stalk
Wait for husks to turn completely brown
Test kernels for hardness with your fingernail
Harvest when kernels are fully dry
Store in a cool, dry place

Versatile Applications

Glass Gem Corn serves multiple purposes:

Traditional cornmeal production
Decorative displays
Popcorn making
Natural food coloring
Seed saving and preservation

Ready to explore another fascinating heirloom variety? Next up, we’ll discover the legendary Brandywine Tomato – a variety that many consider the best-tasting tomato in the world! Click “next” to learn about this pink beauty’s rich history and how to grow these pound-plus fruits successfully.