Ear Flex

Overview

Ear flex is a genetic trait. Ear flex ratings describe a hybrid's ability to change the size of the ear (number of kernel rows and/or number of kernels per row) in response to environmental conditions. All hybrids will flex to a certain extent, some more than others.

Ear flex should not be viewed as good or bad. Rather you should match the ear flex to your conditions for the best result.

Our rating scale

iCORN uses the scale:

High - Generally used on thinner, more stressful soils that require lower populations. High-flex hybrids have the ability to produce higher yields at lower populations.
Moderate - Generally have a wider range of adaptability to soil types, planting populations and fertility than either high or low-flex hybrids.
Low - Generally used in high-fertility, high-population conditions. Low-flex hybrids are less likely to go barren under high populations and stress when used on the proper soil type. Maximum yields with these hybrids require high populations.