Julie,

It's generally best to leave the ears of corn on the plant and allow it to dry naturally as the plant withers and dies. This ensures that the resulting seed has completed its development and will be viable. Further drying can be accomplished by hanging the cobs in a cool, dry place, preferably frost free. Seed can be rubbed from the cob when it is fully dry.

Hybrid corn, especially sweet corn, will not come true from saved seed, as you probably know, but most ornamental and popcorn varieties will, providing cross pollination with other varieties did not occur.

Good luck,

Kate

And you, Kate just answered my OTHER question *laugh* - the drying bit I was able to help Julie with, but I couldn't remember how long I really should leave my popcorn on the stalks. Thanks!

-Marie