KAFIR CORN IN DRT REGIONS 113 



planted until after the ground is well warmed, and 

 there is no danger of frost. It comes properly just 

 after corn planting, there being no hurry until the 

 last week in May, but it should be in early enough 

 to have plenty of time to ripen before frost, taking 

 into consideration the fact that the plant makes 

 but little growth in very dry periods. 



Seeding in dry regions 



As in all crops, it is essential that good seed be 

 planted as a first requisite to a high yield and a 

 good stand. Kafir corn heats very often, when 

 stored in quantity in bins, or when sacked and in 

 a dry place, especially if the sack is closely woven 

 and there is some dust in the seed. It is always 

 risky to trust seed that has been stored in any 

 quantity in a close bin, as its germinating power 

 may be impaired. Hence, seed that is not fresh, 

 or new, should not be trusted. It may even sprout 

 in a germinating pan, and yet have a low vitality 

 that would give a poor stand. 



The best heads from the best plant in the field, 

 under ordinary conditions, should furnish the seed 

 for the next year. If the seed is left to cure on the 

 stalk in the shock, the selection may be made at 

 any time before thrashing; if left on the head and 

 stored away in thin tiers in a dry place, until 

 needed for planting, good seed is insured. 



