Democratic Sentinel, Volume 7, Number 44, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 30 November 1883 — THE CORN CROP. [ARTICLE]

THE CORN CROP.

The States of Illinois, Indiana and lowa Victimised by Squaw Winter. Not Enough Sound Corn Left in Those States to Supply Seed. The Chicago Tribune publishes copious reports of the condition of the corn in the Northwest, which, if accurate, show that the farmers of Indiana, Illinois and lowa have much to complain of as regards this year's crop of that cereal. In the three States named, with but a few exceptions, the cofn is soft and fit for nothing but feed, for which it is now being generally used. This was brought about by its being first frozen and then thawed out, when damp weather followed, preventing the corn hardening. This state of affairs is especially distressing in connection with the problem of where to secure good seed, for the experience of last season shows that Kansas seed ripens too late to be secure from the early frosts of this section, and that Nebraska seed is but a shade better. As to the corn crop of Kansas and Nebraska, the farmers report an exceptional yield in quality and quantity, which is practically secure from harm, the only thing needed being favorable weather for cribbimr. The Tribune, in a summarized review of its extensive reports says: The reports cover the States of Illinois, Indiana, lowa, Kansas and Nebraska. The from tho three States first named are, with a few local exceptions of similar character, and all are unanimous in the statement that it is the poorest crop harvested in many years. The discrepancy applies more to tinequality than tho quantity of grain raised. The corn was damp and soggy when the first frosts occurred, and as a result was frozen-hard. Then came milder weather, which was followed by rains, and the corn thus had no chance to dry out and become hard and mature. The consequence is that a large percentage of tlfe grain is soft and fit only as food for hogs and other stock. Large quantities of this soft corn will undoubtedly go to waste on the approach of cold weather, os many farmers will have more of it than they can possibly use in feeding stock. The question of seed for next year will prove a most serious one, as there will be a 'large deficiency. Kansas will not fce called on to Bupply the want, as there is general complaint that the grain grown this year from Kansas seed--suffered proportionately more than any other. The reports from Kansas are of a particularly cheerful character. The State will harvest the largest crop ever grown in her borders, and the grain is of an extra good quality. There is a decrease in production in certain localities, due to climatic conditions, but as a whole, as stated above, the crop is the largest and also tho best ever grown in the Stale. Many of the farmers, .not satisfied with prevailing p-. ices, are cribbing their corn, and will hold it for a rise. But a very small percentage of the crop in Nebraska was injured by frost, and the grain is bard, sound and in excellent shape in every respect.