Silks at the top of the ear turn brown and dry
Ear feels full and firm when squeezed
Kernels are plump and tightly packed
Kernels release a milky liquid when punctured
Kernel color is deep and uniform for the variety
Husk is green but starting to dry slightly
Ear points downward more than when immature
Days to maturity on the seed packet have passed
Pick sweet corn when kernels are in the milk stage
Harvest in the morning for best flavor and sweetness