CORN OR MAIZE 



69 



times be discarded by their general appearance, it is not 

 always possible to detect them by this means. The only 

 accurate way is to plant them and see if they will grow. 

 This can be done by taking several kernels from each ear, 

 and planting them in a small box filled with sawdust, sand, 

 or soil. A box 24 X 24 inches and 4 inches deep is a 

 convenient size. Put 2 inches of soil or sand in the box and 



FIG. 20. Making a germination test. 



press it down firmly with a brick or the hand. Then drive 

 tacks or small nails 2 inches apart along the sides and 

 ends of the box and stretch cords over the top each way 

 so as to form 2-inch squares. These squares can be 

 numbered by figures along one side and letters along 

 one end. The ears are numbered by attaching a small 

 piece of paper to the butt by a pin. To remove the 

 kernels, use a pocket-knife, inserting the blade at the 

 edges of the kernels between the rows, and pry them out. 

 Begin near the butt of the ear, remove one kernel, then 



