Work is in progress on selection for an early ornamental flint corn. Inbreeding and hybridization for the past several years has not been particularly effective since DC hybrids usually provide little variation in colors. Furthermore, potential seed sales may not justify maintenance of numerous inbreds plus other production costs. We have recently tried crosses of the type (1) broad based synthetic x white inbred and (2) op x op. Several strains of both types are now under advanced testing. Some of these have good vigor, excellent colors, and are at least three weeks earlier than currently available strains. We feel such material can be used in short season areas for both decoration and for corn meal. Corn bread made from freshly ground flint corn has a unique nutty flavor.

G. M. Dunn and David Beck

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