EXPLANATION OF THE SCORE CARD FOR CORN. 



CUTS. In each case, unless otherwise provided for, cut each off ear in proportion to 

 the number of points given on the character under consideration. For example, on "Shape 

 of Ear" cut one-half point for each off ear. On "Condition of Germ" cut one and one-half 

 points for each off ear. The above cuts are, of course, as severe as is possible to make and 

 are to be used to this degree only where the ear is seriously faulty in the character under 

 consideration. For less serious deficiencies cut proportionately less severely. 



DISQUALIFICATIONS. One unquestionably dead ear is sufficient to disqualify any 

 exhibit competing at a corn show. Any exhibit scoring less than four out of a total of ten 

 points on color of kernel and color of cob is similarly disqualified. 



1. SHAPE OF EAR. (5) The shape of an ear varies somewhat with variety, but in gen- 

 eral should be nearly cylindrical. Since in the growth of an ear the butt develops first, an 

 extreme taper may indicate that the ear was too large for the conditions under whcih it was 

 grown. The circumference measured at one-third of the length of the ear from the butt 

 should equal three-fourths the length. Cut one-half point for each ear off in shape. 



2. SHAPE OF KERNEL. (5) The kernels should narrow gradually from crown to tip, 

 with straight edges that touch throughout almost their full length. The two sides of the 

 kernel facing the ends of the ear should be parallel. The "shoe-peg" type of kernel is objec- 

 tionable. The kernels should vary little in shape, as well as in size and indentation, through- 

 out almost the entire length of the ear. The rows should be straight and should extend prac- 

 tically the full length of the ear. Cut one- half pqjnt for each ear having kernels off in shape. 



3. BUTT AND TIP. (5) The butt should be smoothly rounded over with straight rows 

 of uniform kernels. The shank-scar should not be too large but should indicate that the 

 shank was of sufficient size to support the ear. Varying with the size of an ear, a shank- 

 scar should have a diameter not less than that of a dime nor greater than that of a quar 

 ter. v The shank-scar should show that the ear unjointed cleanly from the shank. The cob, 

 as seen through the shank-scar, should not be hollow. 



The tip should be covered well toward the end with straight rows of uniform kernels. 

 A slight exposure of the cob at the tip is not considered objectionable. If, however, a con- 

 siderable per cent of the ears have cobs badly exposed at the tip, it indicates lack of adap- 

 tation, i. e.. the grower is attempting to grow a larger ear than can be properly filled under 

 the conditions. Extremely tapering tips may likewise suggest inadaptation. Cut one-half 

 point for each ear having poor butt and tip. 



4. COLOR OF COB. (5) Grain free from evidence of mixing shows careful breeding. 

 Cobs of uncertain tints suggest impure breeding. Cut one-half point for each cob entirely off 

 in color. Make other cuts proportionately. 



5. COLOR OF KERNELS. (5) The same rule holds as for color of cob. Cut one-half 

 point for each badly mixed ear — an ear with ten or more mixed kernels. Make other cuts 

 proportionately. 



6. VIABILITY AND SOUNDNESS. (30) Of great importance. Seed that will not 

 grow is worse than worthless. 



(a) Color and Luster. (5) Kernels should have a bright color and a live, waxy luster. 

 If the kernels have a faded or darkened color, or have a dull, chalky appearance, they are 

 often of low vitality and are not infrequently dead. A slight discoloration at the crown 

 of the kernel means little. Marked discoloration occurring near the base of the kernel is 



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