Factors Associated with Varietal Differences in Rate of Field Drying in Corn1

Synopsis Husk and shank characteristics and shape or size of ear were not found to be major factors associated with differing rates of drying among strains of corn. A small but consistent difference in osmotic diffusion pressure of kernels and a more conspicuous difference in pericarp permeability were found between a fast and a slow drying hybrid. Lower osmotic diffusion pressure of kernels and more permeable pericarps were associated with more rapid drying.