Corn Cross-Pollination: Sweet Corn vs. Popcorn

Unlike most vegetables, corn flavor is affected by the pollen it receives in the current season. Popcorn pollen reduces sweet corn sweetness; sweet corn pollen makes popcorn taste more "corny" but doesn't affect popping.

Simple Solution

Plant sweet corn and popcorn 2-3 weeks apart so they tassel at different times. This prevents cross-pollination and preserves the quality of both crops.

See also: Popcorn at Purdue, Homegrown Popcorn, Sweet Corn.