96 CORN JUDGING 



Character of Germ. Generally a large germ will give a more 

 vigorous plantlet than a smaller germ. The germ should be of both 

 good color and texture. Any discoloration is likely to mean poor 

 germination. The texture and color are determined by cutting with 

 a knife. 



Color. In some cases, there is a recognized shade of white or 

 yellow, which should be considered. In all cases, the kernel should 

 be bright and with a good luster when shelled. Mixed or off-colored 

 grains indicate hybrids and are, therefore, undesirable in fancy 

 corn, though they may not injure yield. A uniform bright color of 

 cob is also desired. 



The Score Card. To facilitate judging, score cards have been 

 prepared. Score cards differ in the number of points considered and 

 the relative value assigned, depending somewhat on local conditions. 

 Expert judges seldom use the score card except for very close com- 

 parison, as they learn by practice to value the ears readily at a 

 glance. 



Terms for Describing Corn. In describing plants or animals 

 it is first necessary to come to a common understanding as to the 

 exact meaning of technical terms. For example, in describing corn 

 the terms " rounded kernels " or " keystone kernels " should convey 

 an exact meaning. 



Following are the descriptive terms generally used : 



A. Ear Arrangement: 

 Shape (Fig. 33) : Paired 



Cylindrical Single 



Tapering Number 



Conical 



Proportions: C. Kernels 



Long, cir. % length Shape broad view (Fig. 36) : 



Medium, cir.=% length. Round 



Short, cir.=to length Square 



Tips (Fig. 34) : Keystone 



Covered Pointed 



Exposed Shoepeg 



Butts ( Fig. 35 ) : Shape edges : 



Enlarged Parallel 



Symmetrical Pointed 



Contracted Crown : 



Pointed 



B. Rows Smooth 

 Spacing: Dimple 



Wide Deep dent 



Close Pinch dent 



