KAFIR CORN 1N DRY REGIONS 113 
planted until after the ground is well warmed, and 
there is no danger of frost. It comes properly just 
after corn planting, there being no hurry until the 
last week in May, but it should be in early enough 
to have plenty of time to ripen before frost, taking 
into consideration the fact that the plant makes 
but little growth in very dry periods. 
Seeding in dry regions 
As in all crops, it is essential that good seed be 
planted as a first requisite to a high yield and a 
good stand. Kafir corn heats very often, when 
stored in quantity in bins, or when sacked and in 
a dry place, especially if the sack is closely woven 
and there is some dust in the seed. It is always 
risky to trust seed that has been stored in any 
quantity in a close bin, as its germinating power | 
may be impaired. Hence, seed that is not fresh, 
or new, should not be trusted. It may even sprout 
in a germinating pan, and yet have a low vitality 
that would give a poor stand. 
The best heads from the best plant in the field, 
under ordinary conditions, should furnish the seed 
for the next year. If the seed is left to cure on the 
stalk in the shock, the selection may be made at 
any time before thrashing; if left on the head and 
stored away in thin tiers in a dry place, until 
needed for planting, good seed is insured, 
H 
