Germination Percentages of Different Types of Sweet Corn in Relation to Harvesting Dates

Germination of sweet and super sweet corn is lower than normal corn due to the higher sugar and lower starch contents of kernels. Sweet corn seeds are easily deteriorated in the field under the unfavorable condition, therefore it is important to identify the optimal harvesting time for seed production. This trial was conducted to investigate the responses of germination percentage of shrunken-2(sh2), brittle(bt), sugary(su), and sugary enhancer(se) hybrids in relation to harvesting dates. Eight hybrids of four different gene sweet corns were harvested at 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, and 50 days after silking(DAS). Germination test was performed using paper towel method. Mean germination percentages across eight hybrids showed the highest value at 45 DAS. There were significant differences among genes and within gene for germination. Shrunken-2 hybrid Mecca was higher than su hybrids for germination, indicating that sh2 would not be poorer than su Late harvesting beyond the optimal harvesting date might not be desirable because of more lodging and ear rots. Theoretical optimal harvesting date estimated from the regression equation was 40.9 DAS, however, practical date for harvesting would be a few days later than the estimated date if seedling vigor might be considered. Kernel dry weight per ear showed similar response to germination. Regression equation showed the highest kernel dry weight at 40.7 DAS. Significant correlations between kernel dry weight and germination were observed, impling that kernel dry matter accumulation would be an important factor for germination.