VegetableCorn
Silvermine Corn
Silvermine Corn is a creamy white dent corn variety that traces back to 1890, when J.A. Beagley of Sibly, Illinois, developed it into the high-yielding heirloom it remains today. This open-pollinated, non-GMO corn produces exceptionally large ears (11-12 inches) packed with kernels that make it a standout for northern gardeners and those in challenging climates. Growing 72-84 inches tall and reaching harvest in 110-119 days, Silvermine thrives in hardiness zones 2-13, handling heat and drought with remarkable resilience while producing yields that justify its century-plus reputation.
Photo © True Leaf Market
Growing Conditions
USDA Zone
2-13
Sunlight
Full Sun
Water
Moderate
Soil
Well-drained, Fertile Loam With Organic Matter
Growth Stats
84 in
Height
TypeUpright
Spacing
10
Plant Profile
Sunlight
Full Sun
Water
Moderate
Zones
2-13
Size
84in H x ?in W
Growth
—
Care
Moderate
Hover over chart points for details
Highlights
Those massive 11-12 inch ears deliver the yields Silvermine is famous for, and the tight husk provides natural protection against corn ear worms that plague many other varieties. This corn actually improves on poor soils rather than demanding fertility, making it exceptional for gardeners working with marginal land. The creamy white kernels and heirloom genetics mean you're growing something with real history and the ability to save seeds for next year's harvest.
Common Uses
Silvermine Corn is a dent corn, valued primarily for grinding and processing into cornmeal, polenta, flour, and animal feed rather than eating fresh off the cob. The large, starchy kernels are ideal for anyone preserving corn through drying and storage, and home gardeners who grind their own flour appreciate both the volume and the creamy character these kernels bring to baked goods.
Growing Timeline
No timeline data available yet for this variety.
Care Instructions
Direct Sow
Direct sow Silvermine seeds into the garden after the last spring frost when soil temperature reaches 60-75°F. Plant seeds at the proper depth and space them 10 inches apart in rows spaced 36 inches apart to allow the tall plants adequate room.
Harvesting
Harvest Silvermine ears when the kernels have reached their mature dent stage and the husks have dried and turned brown; this typically occurs 110-119 days after planting. The cob should be fully hard and the kernels firm to the touch. Pull ears downward and twist to remove them from the stalk, and allow them to cure further if you plan to grind or process them.
Growing Calendar
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Companion Planting
Pests & Diseases
Ecology & Traits
Edible
Scientific Classification
Zea mays
Family
Poaceae
Genus
Zea
Growth Habit
Upright
Native Status
L48 (I)PR (I)VI (I)CAN (I)
History & Origin
“J.A. Beagley of Sibly, Illinois, created Silvermine Corn in 1890, developing a dent corn that would become renowned for its extraordinary yields and ability to perform under stress. This heirloom remained in cultivation through the 20th century because it delivered what Midwest farmers needed: a reliable, productive corn that didn't demand perfect conditions. The variety's persistence as an open-pollinated seed speaks to its genuine merit, not marketing; farmers and gardeners kept growing it because it worked, especially in colder zones and tougher agricultural regions.”