A very early Xtra-Tender© variety, 'Swift F1' has been specifically bred to give very sweet and succulent cobs. Quick to grow from seed, the vigorous plants produce good-sized cobs of up to 20cm long, with golden-yellow kernels that have a mouth-wateringly rich flavour.
A worthy recipient of the RHS Award of Garden Merit, 'Swift F1' is easy to grow and a reliably good cropper – a great choice for beginner and experienced gardeners alike. It is also one of the best crops for getting children interested in gardening as the seeds germinate soon after sowing, grow to an impressive size and produce delicious corn cobs that they will relish.
Cobs can be cooked whole – simply remove the husks and boil the cobs for a few minutes, roast in the oven or wrap them in foil for the barbeque. They can also be eaten raw; just strip off the kernels with a sharp knife and add them to salads for an extra sweet crunch. Sweetcorn is rich in fibre and a good source of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. The cobs are best eaten soon after picking but will keep for a few days in the fridge and they freeze well.
Sweetcorn thrives in a sunny position. Sow indoors March to May for planting out in May to June; or sow the seeds outdoors in May, directly into their cropping position in well-cultivated, fertile soil. Flowers will appear approximately 8 weeks after sowing and mature cobs can be picked after 16 weeks – or pick for baby corn 1 to 2 days after the silks emerge, when the ear is up to 10cm (4in) long.
Supplied as a packet of 35 (approx.) seeds ready to sow indoors or outdoors in their growing position. Grows to a height of up to 200cm (79in) and spread up to 45cm (18in).
Price £3.99