238 FIELD CROP PRODUCTION 



heads, after cutting or pulling, are sorted, the crooked or 

 coarse strawed heads being laid aside to use in the making 

 of cheaper brooms. The immature seeds and glumes are 

 then removed from the heads by a combing device or 

 thrasher, after which the brush is dried or cured in the 

 shed, to prevent bleaching. After curing, the brush is 

 pressed into bales of 400 to 500 pounds, and in this form 

 is placed on the market. 



