What is Kernel row number and kernels per row?
Kernel row number on a maize ear is almost always even; it is most often between 14 and 20 but can be lower or higher depending on the variety, and it rises with ear girth. Row number is largely set by genetics. Kernels per row depends more on ear length and on conditions during pollination and kernel set.
On CasSeed variety sheets, ear diameter is given as a row count (e.g. "16–18 rows") and kernels per row as a count per row (e.g. "45–47"); the Turkish sheets label the latter "koçandaki sıra sayısı".
Why does it matter when choosing seed?
Together, row number and kernels per row set the number of kernels per ear. Because yield is that kernel count multiplied by kernel weight, ear structure is an important indicator when comparing varieties.
CasSeed varieties related to this topic
The relevant characteristics are listed on each variety’s technical sheet.
FAO 700 · CRM 120 · Grain and silage maize seed
A late-maturity grain hybrid with fast dry-down and outstanding standability.
FAO 700 · CRM 118 · Grain and silage maize seed
A flinty red-grained hybrid with high protein and complete tip fill.
FAO 700 · CRM 120 · Grain and silage maize seed
A widely adapted grain hybrid with high test weight, suited to wider spacing.
FAO 700 · CRM 118 · Grain and silage maize seed
Complete tip fill, high test weight and a hybrid that rewards denser planting.
FAO 650 · CRM 117 · Grain and silage maize seed
Broad ears and a strong stalk — a mid-late hybrid for both grain and silage.
Related terms
Ear tip fill
Ear tip fill describes how far kernels are set and filled from the base of the ear right up to its tip.
Thousand kernel weight
Thousand kernel weight is the weight in grams of 1,000 kernels and indicates how large and well filled the kernels are.