EAR TOO HIGH ON STALK 



451 



a large cob. An upright ear is to be criticised because rain enters the 

 husks and rotting ensues. A moderately drooping ear is to be chosen 

 rather than one in a loosely hanging position. 



The parent stalk, if weak and very slender, is undesirable. The best 

 ears are not formed on stalks of this character. This inherited weak- 

 ness will appear in the next generation. Stockiness at the base, with 

 a gradual decrease in size upward, indicates strength ;ind \'igor, sta- 

 bility in storm, and in general 

 more natural strength than a stalk 

 of similar height the same size 

 throughout its length. Excessive 

 foliage may indicate a tendency to 

 produce fodder rather than grain, 

 but usually a heavier yielder is a 

 gross feeder. Only the well ma- 

 tured ears should be selected for 

 seed. An examination of the ears 

 at this period is difficult, because 

 the husks have to be largely re- 

 moved or pulled back in order to 

 ascertain the type and regularity 

 of the kernel. At this time, ker- 

 nels need not be taken out to ex- 

 amine their depth or to determine 

 the shelling percentage. Later on, 

 during the process of germination, 

 this feature can be more clearly 

 observed. Yet the shape and type 

 of the ears selected can be noted 

 with definite characters in view, 

 even in the field. Size and ma- 

 turity are essential points of 

 value. The largest possible ear 

 that will mature is the best for 

 any locality. However, maturity 

 should never be sacrificed for size. A smaller, well matured ear is 

 more desirable for seed than a larger immature ear. From this selec- 

 tion bed may be selected the seed needed the following year for 

 planting the large field; likewise the choicest ears kept for the next 

 year's selection bed. 



EAR TOO HIGH ON STALK. 



