The ear is the female inflorescence of maize, evaluated by agronomists as the most important element of the yield structure. Externally, its productivity is manifested through the number of grain rows, the number of grains per row, the grain weight per ear, and the tip fill degree, where full grain coverage indicates the absence of stress factors.
Harvestability and economic efficiency depend on morphological traits such as ear placement height, which affects combine operation, as well as husk density and cob structure. Thin, loose husks and cobs facilitate intensive grain moisture loss at the end of the season, which reduces subsequent drying costs.
During variety testing, biometric analysis is conducted, including the measurement of ear length, cob diameter, and ear placement height. The stability of the variety is evaluated by the consistency of ear formation under drought or temperature stress conditions, as well as by the visual degree of disease infestation. An important indicator is the grain type, which determines adaptation to climatic conditions and yield potential.
The evaluation of the ear is strictly linked to the maturity group of the hybrid and its intended use. During ripening, a key marker for the end of grain filling is physiological maturity, determined by the appearance of the “black layer” at the grain attachment point, which allows the variety to be correlated with specific growing conditions.