I can't think of a vegetable that's more fun for kids to eat than sweet corn. I have many happy memories of sitting around the table engrossed in a hearty cob or two.

Since I've become a parent, I've discovered it's also a great time-killer for the wee ones - though mine aren't quite so wee any more. Pop them outside with a few cobs left over from last night's dinner and it'll keep them busy long enough for you to get a job or two done (or even enjoy a cuppa if you're lucky).

If you like to put more time and effort into your meal preparation, you can, of course, also turn your corn into fritters, or add it to salads or Mexican dishes. The options are endless.

Sold? Great, because now's the time to get planting. Grab some Awapuni Nurseries sweet corn seedlings next time you're down at your local supermarket, Bunnings, or The Warehouse. Alternatively, head to our online store and have them delivered direct to your door. For a family of four you'll need around 20 plants, or two bundles.

Corn likes sunny and free-draining conditions, so make sure you find the right planting spot. It will also need a bit of space to grow.

Once you've found your place, dig a little hole and plant your seedlings about 20cm apart from each other. I like to plant mine in rows or in a group so each plant can support another as they grow taller.

As the corncob starts to form, it's important to water your plants to ensure they don't dry out. You should be able to get around two cobs off a plant starting in late summer. Not sure if they're ready? Peel back the husk of the cob a little bit and if they look juicy, they're ripe for the picking. Still look a little hard? Give them some more time.

Once they're ready for action and you've harvested the entire crop, pull the plants out. Sweet corn can take a lot of nitrogen out of the soil so try planting peas and beans in the spot where your corn was. Not only will they bump up the nitrogen content again, these kid-friendly greens will also help keep little hands busy at the dinner table.