Checking corn maturity

Corn maturity as marked by "milk line"

I have marked where the kernel changes from a more liquid stage or "milk line" to the more solid stage of starch on the right side of the ear shown.  Maturity on this one in 1/2 Milk Line and will move towards the cob as heat units accumulate.  In approximately 2 weeks this will complete the process and a membrane layer will form at the base of the kernel that will later allow the separation from the kernel form the cob.  This membrane is black.  So if you hear us farmers talk about "Black Layer" it means maturity.  From this point on yield does not increase but moisture levels continue to drop.  Black layer is over 30% moisture and safe storage levels are 15% moisture.  The decision will be made to harvest and dry the grain or wait for corn to dry and then harvest. But you can expect to see harvest to begin soon.

Ear showing full dent

This is the same ear sometimes called full dent as each kernel is dented which is an indicator of starch shrinking as moisture leaves.

Can't help but smile

John visited the corn grown for our local FRB project.  This year will be one of the best on record for this field.  Fortunately it can also bring smiles to our overseas project as with every ones help this will be sold and the money sent to aid those farmers become self sufficient.

                                                                                        Serving together, Dean