118 [Assembly 



productions of our republic. Seldom a year that does not bring 

 to your exhibitions new varieties of maize orjmarked improvement 

 in those previously known, many of which as objects of curiosity 

 are worthy of our admiration, but more important are the splen- 

 did ears which annually notes its progress '; as for example the 

 specimens of white corn from Monmouth county, N. J., and 

 Long Island, evidences of improved seed and superior culti- 

 vation. 



It has been stated that the numerous varieties were the repre- 

 sentatives of but one specieSj but have we not as strong grounds 

 for claiming for the white, yellow and sweet corn, distinct speci- 

 fic origin, as we have for many specific distinctions in other 

 departments of Natural History. 



It is not to be expected that every cultivator, especially those 

 who look for immediate pecuniary returns, will indulge in many 

 varieties during one season, nor would it be advisable, but of a 

 grain so important too much cannot be known, and while testing 

 the capabilities of a large number of varieties, grown under cir- 

 cumstances equal, some good results may be obtained, or at least 

 it is worthy of the effort. 



The remarks on the growth of the several varieties of com 

 plants, are given from actual measurement taken from the ave- 

 rage height when at maturity. * 



We are aware that the length of stalk as well as ear, is more 

 influenced by circumstances, but believe that the measuretnents 

 generally, will be found corresponding with those grown in other 

 localities, on average good soil, under fair cultivation. 



The large number of varieties grown on the comparatively 

 small extent of land, prevents giving a satisfactory statement of 

 the respective product and cost. Sufficient, however, has been 

 ascertained, to govern the producer in selecting those adapted to 

 circumstances, such as soil, situation, and opportunity for pro- 

 curing a sufficiency of manure, and if answering no other pur- 

 pose, trust that the following synopsis of this extensively culti- 

 vated grain will not be uninteresting. 



