CORN CULTURE 31 



free from mixture, true to the variety represented. Both 

 ears and kernels should be constant in shape, and conform 

 to the variety type. 



How to judge with the score-card. Place your ten 

 ear samples on the table with the butts toward you. Begin 

 with ear number 1, and study each ear with great care, point 

 by point, taking time to decide each grade mark. Put 

 these down in the proper place on the score-card. Do not 

 be afraid to mark off for defects. It takes a good ear to 

 score ninety points when carefully graded. 



Finally, add together the marks for each ear given 

 under each of the four grade points, and place the sum in 

 the proper place in the summary on the score-card. Add 

 these results for each ear. This will give you the final 

 score for each ear of the set. 



Comparing scores. After thus completing your own 

 sample of ten ears, exchange with one of your classmates, 

 and score his sample, while he at the same time scores 

 yours. Do this as carefully as the first set, without refer- 

 ring to the grading given by the other person. When both 

 have' finished, compare the scores, and discuss the differ- 

 ences in the markings. It is not to be expected that the 

 scoring will agree in all particulars, but where there are 

 wide differences, the reasons for each score given should 

 be carefully gone over to correct any false judgment. 



9. Testing the Seed Corn 



No seed corn should ever be planted that has not been 

 tested ear by ear to see whether it will germinate, and pro- 

 duce a strong growth. For, even if the seed is carefully 

 selected and cared for, there are always some ears that will 

 fail to grow, or else produce plants so weak as to be bar- 

 ren or raise but worthless nubbins. 



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