138 



PRODUCTIVE FARMING 



8. Length of Ear. The length of the ear varies according 

 to variety, type and the characteristics sought by the indi- 

 vidual farmer. Uniformity of length is. to be sought in a 

 sample, and a sample having even length of ears should score 

 higher than one that varies, even if it is within the limits (Fig. 

 73) . The usual length of ears for the northern section for dent 

 corn is 7 to 9 inches; central section, 8j/ to 9J^ inches; soutb- 



FIG. 71. 



FIG. 72. 



FIG. 71. Sections and surface views of kernels of corn. The three on the right 

 snow large germs and have much protein, those on the left small germs and less 

 protein. (Agricultural Education.) 



FIG. 72. Diagram of a section of corn kernel, enlarged, showing the locations 

 of starch, embryo, horny part rich in protein, and the protein layer under the hull. 

 In kernels where the germ is large and the horny part is large toward the tip there 

 is much protein. Such corn makes the best feed and should be selected when choos 

 ing seed corn. 



ern section, 10 to 12 inches. Very long ears are objectionable, 



as they usually have poor butts and tips, shallow kernels and 

 hence less corn on the cob. Same varieties produce several 

 small ears on each stalk. 



9. Circumference of Ear. The circumference of the ear 

 should be hi symmetry with its length. An ear too great in 

 circumference for its length is generally slow hi maturing, and 

 too frequently results in soft corn. Dimensions for the north- 



