Z

Zea mays

Kalahari Early Pearl is a quick-maturing white maize developed for South Africa’s semi-arid growing conditions. This open-pollinated variety is named for its ability to thrive in the hot, dry Kalahari region and is widely grown for fresh green mealies. With strong germination and broad adaptability, it has become a staple crop in smallholder and home gardens alike. Plants produce cobs of about 18 cm with large, white kernels and good field-holding ability.

This variety is best enjoyed fresh, harvested green at the milk stage. Its sweet, full flavour and creamy texture make it ideal for boiling, braai or pot cooking. If left to dry fully on the stalk, the kernels can also be ground into a soft white meal for traditional pap and other maize dishes.

Sow directly into warm, moist soil once daytime temperatures consistently exceed 15 °C. Plant 2–3 cm deep and space 20–25 cm apart in rows 50–75 cm apart. Sow in blocks of at least four rows to ensure proper pollination. Cobs can be harvested green around 90–100 days from sowing. For dry maize harvest, allow to reach physiological maturity between 130 and 140 days.

Livingseeds recommends a minimum of 40 plants. For long-term seed saving and genetic integrity, 80–100 plants are essential to prevent suppression and drift.

Standard packet contains approx. 120 seeds
Petite packet contains approx. 40 seeds