How to Grow Popcorn in New Zealand
Updated June 2026
A different type from sweet corn, with hard-shelled kernels that pop. Sow direct from October to December in Auckland and plant in a block for wind pollination. Leave cobs on the stalk until fully dry and hard before harvesting.
What it looks like as it grows
When to plant popcorn in New Zealand
Timing is everything in New Zealand, where the warm north and the cooler south are weeks apart. Sow or plant in these months for your region:
| Region | When to sow or plant |
|---|---|
| Northland | October, November |
| Auckland | October, November |
| Waikato & BoP | October, November |
| Wellington | November, December |
| Nelson & Marlborough | November, December |
| Canterbury | November, December |
| Otago & Southland | December |
| Central Otago | December |
Best popcorn varieties for NZ
- Strawberry Popcorn, Small ruby cobs on compact plants, fun for kids and pops well. (Egmont Seeds, Kings Seeds)
- Tom Thumb, Dwarf early popcorn with small golden cobs, good for small gardens. (Egmont Seeds, Kings Seeds)
How to grow popcorn
- Space plants about 30cm apart.
- Sow seed around 3cm deep.
- Position: full sun.
- Ready to harvest in roughly 120 days.
- Seeds germinate in about 8 days.
Companion planting
Grow popcorn near: Beans, Pumpkin, Lettuce.
Pests and problems
Watch for: Tomato fruitworm, Birds. See our NZ pest and disease guide for organic control.
🌱 Plant Popcorn in your garden →For a calendar tuned to your exact region, see the New Zealand planting guides or the Popcorn plant page.
FAQ
When is the best time to plant popcorn in New Zealand?
In the warm north (Auckland, Northland) sow in October, November. Cooler regions plant a little later. Check the table above for your region.
Where can I buy popcorn seeds or plants in NZ?
Try Egmont Seeds, Kings Seeds.