CORN 155 



We shall doubtless be surprised that there are so many 

 ways in which ears of corn may differ, and that so many 

 points must be considered in the selection of those that 

 are to be used as seed. 



In general, the selection of seed corn is a process of 

 elimination, or casting out of the unfit ; and we may reject 

 an ear either because of some condition indicating impaired 

 vitality or because it shows one or more characteristics 

 which we deem undesirable and do not wish to perpetuate. 

 In the selection of seed com, then, we generally consider : 



First : the soundness and maturity of the ear. 



Second : the characteristics of the ear as a whole. 



Third: the characteristics of the kernels. 



The three exercises which follow, if carefully performed, 

 will make clear the points for which one should look 

 when seeking a seed ear of corn. 



EXERCISE 42 



Object. — To learn how to recognize immaturity and 

 unsoundness in an ear of corn. 



Procedure. — Select from any crib or field eight ears of 

 com as directed below. Do not break any ear, nor remove 

 more kernels than necessary in order to determine with 

 certainty its condition. 



(1) An ear whose kernels are mouldy at the cob. 

 Mouldy kernels usually indicate dead germs or embryos. 



Such an ear is, of course, of no value as a seed ear. (Sec- 

 tion 99.) 



(2) An ear whose kernels are so loose on the cob as to 

 rattle when the ball of the thumb is drawn lightly along 

 the row. 



This condition is called chaffiness, and is due to im- 

 maturity. Kernels from such ears may sprout, but they 

 will produce weak seedlings. 



