384 



Reading-Course for Farmers. 



tively from one upward. Take six kernels from each ear, two from near 

 the butt, two from the middle and two from near the tip. Place the six 

 kernels on one of the numbered squares, and mark the ear with a corre- 

 sponding number. A rubber band is a convenient thing to put around the 

 ear to hold a slip of paper with the number written on it. Sample and 

 mark all of the selected ears in this way. 



After all of the spaces have been filled place a piece of muslin over 

 all of the kernels. Then take a larger piece of muslin, put damp sand 

 or sawdust in it and so lay it in the box that all of the kernels are covered. 

 The grain will thus be kept in contact with a sufficient supply of moisture, 



Fig. 362. — A, Moderately small cob. B, Large cob 

 From "Exatniiiiiig and Grading Grains." 



and no more need ordinarily be added, at least to the lower layer of sand 

 or sawdust, during the test. (Fig. 363.) 



Place the box in a room where the temperature may be kept at nearly 

 80° F. The kitchen generally comes nearest to this requirement, but care 

 should be taken that it does not get too hot during the day nor too cool 

 at night. Lift off the muslin cover each day and remove the sprouted 

 kernels. At the end of the sixth day, count the unsprouted kernels. 

 Any ear having more than one unsprouted kernel should be rejected for 

 planting. 



There is a prevalent opinion that it is desirable to send to a distance 

 for seed corn. This is a mistake. Experiments have shown beyond doubt, 

 that corn must become acclimated before it can give its maximum yield. 



There is no need of a variety of corn " running out." The so-callea 

 " running out " is due to careless seed selection and depleted soil, but in 

 any case it is better to raise crops continuously from one's own seed 

 rather than to depend on seed from a distance. 



There is also a tendency to try new varieties, or so-called new 

 varieties, without any knowledge of their adaptability to the soil ano 

 climate of this section. Much disappointment is likely to result from 



