QUESTIONS 173 



Uniformity in Color. Uniformity in color and size is of only minor 

 importance to the feeder. Divide the sample according to the color of the 

 grains. Let the class having the largest number determine the color. Cut 

 one point for each two per cent of other colors. 



Uniformity in Size. Divide the sample into two parts according to 

 size of grain. Estimate per cent of small grains by count. Cut one point 

 for each four per cent of small grains. 



Weight per Bushel. The weight per bushel is a very important con- 

 sideration in estimating the value of an oat for feeding purposes. A heavy 

 weight indicates that the grain was well matured and filled out. In the 

 same variety a heavy oat usually has a less per cent of hull, and, conse- 

 quently, a higher feeding value than a light oat. The best oats should 

 weigh 38 pounds per bushel. Cut one point for every pound light down to 

 32 pounds per bushel, and two points for every pound light below this. 



Soundness and Dirt. Sprouted and decayed grains have little more 

 value than so much trash, and may be regarded as such for judging pur- 

 poses. Separate all unsound grains and dirt, estimate the per cent by 

 weight, and cut two points for each one per cent. This cut is not limited 

 to ten points, but may be indefinite. 



Size of Grain. Size varies greatly with varieties, but 100 grains should 

 weigh 3 grams in heavy oats. Cut one point for every two-tenths of a gram 

 less. 



Must and Smut. If must and smut are very apparent, the sample should 

 be cut 10 points. 



Per Cent of Hull. The percentage of hull varies with varieties, the 

 locality in which the oat is grown, and also depends on how well and per- 

 fectly the grain was matured. In growth the hull and bran develop first, 

 and the starch is deposited last. However, if from any cause, such as dry 

 weather, poor soil, injury from insects, etc., the grain is prevented from 

 maturing perfectly, the development of the starch is somewhat curtailed, 

 and, consequently, the percentage of hull is higher. A good oat may have 

 as high as 30 per cent hull. Cut two points for every per cent of hull above 

 this. 



Make a statement at end of exercise as to 3 most important factors to 

 be considered in buying oats for feeding; also indicate the best samples 

 for feeding purposes. 



QUESTIONS 



1. Why are oats harvested greener than wheat? 



2. What do you think the best way to care for oats before threshing? 



3. What are advantages of stacking? 



4. What conditions favor the spread of rust? 



5. How is the oat crop utilized? 



6. Where is the surplus oat crop produced? 



7. Explain treatment of oats in elevators to improve market value. 



8. State the principal market grades. 



