CORN 



145 



179. Character of kernels and germs. The most desirable 

 depth of kernel depends on the climatic conditions under which 

 it is to be grown. Ordinarily, deep kernels require a longer grow- 

 ing season than shallow kernels, and hence in the North and at 

 high altitudes it is advisable to select shallower-kerneled corn 

 than would be considered desirable for sections farther south. 

 Deep kernels also require more moisture and a more fertile soil 

 than do shallower kernels. Care must be taken, therefore, not 

 to get the kernel too deep for the length of season, for the supply 

 of moisture, or for the amount of plant food available. As a 

 general rule, the grains should be keystone-shaped, since the 

 grains of this shape fit 

 closely together on the 

 cobs, thus increasing 

 the shelling quality of 

 the corn and also provid- 

 ing room for the devel- 

 opment of large germs. 



The kernels should 

 be about one sixth of 

 an inch in thickness, 

 or about six to the inch 

 in the row (Fig. 65). The grains should be as nearly uniform 

 in shape as possible, so that they will drop regularly from the 

 planter and produce an even stand. 



The germs should be long, wide, and thick. Approximately 

 four fifths of the oil and one fifth of the protein of the kernel is 

 found in the germ ; therefore the larger the germs the more 

 valuable the corn will be for feeding purposes. The results of 

 experiments fail to show a direct relation between size of germ 

 and yield of grain. Size of germ, however, does indicate the 

 germinating power of the seed. Germs that are smooth, bright, 

 and plump on the outside should be sought, while those that 

 are shriveled, blistered, shrunken, moldy, or discolored should 

 be discarded. The internal appearance of the germ should be 

 fresh, oily, and of a light yellow color. 



FIG. 66. Grains of good and poor form 

 Which are the good grains ? 



