Cooperative Tests of Corn Varieties 409 



corn plants of the same variety that are nearly ripe. The percentage 

 of dry matter is an index of maturity in unfrosted corn fodder. To make 

 the best silage about 25 per cent of dry matter is required in the fodder; 

 a percentage lower than 20 indicates immature corn, and one higher than 

 30 would hardly occur except in ripe or frosted corn fodder. In the 19 10 

 experiment the Pride of the North variety was ripe, while the Eureka 

 corn was in the milk stage. In 191 1 the four varieties were allowed to 

 stand for five days after a killing frost, before weights and samples were 

 taken. 



Differences in the amount of protein, fat, and carbohydrates produced 

 are accounted for partly by variations in yield of fodder of the different 

 varieties, and partly by variations in composition. In choosing a variety 

 of corn to grow for silage, these variations should have some weight with 

 other considerations. 



Taking into account the yields of ear corn and of fodder produced by 

 different varieties of both flint and dent corn in the cooperative experiments 

 here described, we may say that for silage purposes it will be found best to 

 grow varieties of dent corn wherever those varieties produce more than 

 do flint varieties. The varieties should reach a fair degree of maturity 

 in a normal season. At higher elevations and where flint varieties pro- 

 duce larger yields of ear corn and of stover, some of these varieties — such 

 as Hall's Gold Nugget and King Philip — should be grown for silage in 

 preference to the immature dent varieties that never become acclimated. 



HOW future experiments should be made 



The experiments described in this bulletin indicate that varieties of 

 corn suitable for diffsrent localities are now being grown in this State. 

 The first step that should be taken in every locality where improve- 

 ment in corn growing is desirable, is to test all varieties known to have 

 some merit for that locality. Several farmers should make the same 

 test in the same manner for one season. By comparing the results of 

 such tests, the best varieties may be ascertained. These varieties should 

 be retested, together with a few varieties from other sections in order 

 to see if any better kinds can be introduced. The varieties that prove 

 best adapted to the needs of the locality after continued testing through 

 several seasons may then be improved by careful selection, and seed 

 crops grown for distribution in the community by the person best equipped 

 for it. This involves cooperation on the part of the com growers, which 

 will be likely to lead to other forms of community effort. 



When desired, cooperative variety tests of com may be made in those 

 parts of the State where conditions warrant com culture, under the direc- 

 tion of the State College of Agriculture. Directions for making tests 



