JUDGING SMALL GRAINS 61 



region where it is grown. The kernels may possess a 

 wrinkled surface or be perfectly smooth ; some may be long 

 and pointed and others short and oblong, depending upon 

 varieties. It is important that these different types be 

 not found in the same sample if it is to be considered as 

 true to type. 



Uniformity in Size and Shape of Kernels. In an ideal 

 sample of grain, all the kernels should be the same size and 

 shape. They may all be small or all be large, but they 

 must be all of uniform size and shape. This is important 

 because the grain may then be sown at a more uniform rate 

 and all plants grown therefrom are likely to be of equal 

 strength and vigor. 



Color of Grain. All kernels in the sample should be of 

 the same color. No black, red, gray, or yellow oats should 

 be found in a sample of white oats. No mixture of light and 

 dark or red and white wheat is allowable. The last rule, 

 of course, applies equally to the grains of other colors. 

 This point must be closely watched, as it is an indication 

 either of mixture or of a lack of breeding. 



Freedom from Mixture with Other Grains. The 

 value of grain for seed is greatly reduced whenever there is a 

 mixture of other grains. Special application of this point 

 can also be made to wheat and barley for other reasons. 

 Wheat to make the best flour should be absolutely pure 

 and the best prices can be obtained for it when it is of that 

 grade. In the manufacture of malt, maltsters wish to use 

 only pure barley, and a mixture of other grains is undesir- 

 able. Oats in barley are especially objectionable, as it is 

 extremely difficult to separate them from the barley. 



Size of Kernel. -- The size of the kernels should be con- 

 sidered. In any grain it is desirable to have the kernels as 



