136 



PRODUCTIVE FARMING 



vidual farmer. Uniformity of length is to be sought in a 

 sample, and a sample having even length of ears should 

 score higher than one that varies, even if it is within the limits 

 (Fig. 73). The usual length of ears for the northern section 

 for dent corn is 7 to 9 inches; central section, S}^ to 93^ 

 inches; southern section, 10 to 12 inches. Very long ears 



Fig. 71. 



Fig. 72. 



Fig. 71. — Sections and surface views of kernels of com. The three on the right 

 show large germs and have much protein, those on the left small germs and less 

 protein. (Agricultural Education.) 



Fig. 72. — Diagram of a section of corn kernel, enlarged, showing the locations 

 of starch, embryo, horny part rich in protein, and the protein layer under the hull. 

 In kernels where the germ is large and the homy part is large toward the tip there 

 is much protein. Such com makes the best feed and should be selected when choos- 

 ing seed com. 



are objectionable, as they usually have poor butts and tips, 

 shallow kernels and hence less corn on the cob. Same vari- 

 eties produce several small ears on each stalk. 



9. Circumference of Ear. — The circumference of the ear 

 should be in symmetry with its length. An ear too great 

 in circumference for its length is generally slow in maturing, 

 and too frequently results in soft corn. Dimensions for the 

 northern section for dent corn are 6}^ to 7 inches in cir- 



