THE CORY.--This is the earliest variety known, and is at the
same time superior in size and quality to the varieties which have
been grown as extra early, before its introduction. It ripens nearly a
week in advance of any other variety, while the ears are much larger
than either the Minnesota or Marblehead. The grains are well formed to
the tip of the cob, making a much handsomer ear than the other early
varieties, while in sweetness and quality it is also superior.
[Illustration: A RIPENED EAR OF THE CORY CORN.]
AMBER CREAM.--This is a medium early variety; it is a strong,
vigorous grower, reaching six to seven feet in height; the ears are
about ten inches in length and the quality is rich and sugary. When
used on the table the grains are milky white; the “Amber” of its name
coming from the ripe seed, while the “Cream” is evidently an attempt to
describe its excellent quality. In planting and picking for the table,
the size of the ears of this variety and of Stowell’s Evergreen should
be taken into account; a dozen ears being nearly equal to two dozen of
some of the smaller-eared kinds.
CROSBY’S EARLY TWELVE-ROWED does not grow quite so tall as the
Amber Cream, nor are the ears as large; although called “twelve-rowed,”
it frequently has only ten rows. The great merit of this kind is in
its excellent quality, it being very sweet and juicy, and fully equal
to any variety that I have ever eaten. It is one of the best sorts to
plant after the very early kinds.
POTTER’S EXCELSIOR.--An excellent medium early variety; the ears are of
good size, with twelve rows of deep grains. It is remarkably sweet and
juicy, and quite productive, averaging two good ears to a stalk.
STOWELL’S EVERGREEN.--This is, in my opinion, the finest
variety for late and general planting. It is strong-growing and
prolific, while the ears are of large size and handsome appearance. The
quality is rich and sweet, while the grains are juicy and luscious,
when picked at the right stage. To have the finest corn of any variety
it should be picked in just the right condition; that is, when the
skin of the grain breaks at the slightest puncture, and plantings
should be made frequently enough always to have a supply at this stage.
The quality is inferior if it is a few days too old or too young.