68 



FIELD CROPS 



of the 100 kernels grows, producing a strong, vigorous shoot 

 and strong roots, it is reasonable to suppose that the sample 

 is good; but if only 90 out of the 100 kernels grow, the sample 



is of questionable value, 

 because if such seed is 

 planted it means that 1 

 acre out of every 10 



T/P. 



planted 

 nothing. 



will produce 



Fig. 20. Tip, middle, and butt kernels. 

 Tip and butt kernels should be shelled off 

 from the seed ears and discarded, as they 

 are irregular in shape and will not drop 

 uniformly. 



75. The Individual 

 Ear Test. Instead of 

 making the test from a 

 bulk sample of corn, as 



suggested above, the best growers now recommend and 

 practice the testing of each ear of corn as to its germinat- 

 ing power before ___ ~ ^ 

 it is shelled, and 

 if it does not 

 germinate strong- 

 ly it is discarded. 

 There are a num- 

 ber of different 

 ways of making 

 this test, all of 

 which are good. 

 The method out- 

 lined in the fol- 

 lowing paragraphs 

 is as good as any; 

 nothing but home- 

 made apparatus 

 and but little 

 labor and time 



are required. 



Fig. 21. A germination box for testing one hum' red 

 ears of saed corn. Note that the outside rows of 

 squares are two inches from the sides of the box; t e 

 space outside these squares dries out and does not gr e 

 a true test of germination. Note also the roll of cloih 

 at the top; this forms the cover when the box is filled. 



