Popcorn seeds are obtained by harvesting popcorn ears, and then separating the kernels from the cob using a combine.
Harvesting Popcorn Kernels
The process of getting popcorn seeds, also called kernels, involves the following steps:
Combine Harvesting
- Stripping the Ears: Popcorn is typically harvested using a combine. The combine is equipped with a "corn head" that strips the ears of corn from the stalks.
- Feeding the Ears: The harvested ears are then fed into the combine machine.
- Shelling Kernels: Inside the combine, the kernels are separated or "shelled" from the cob.
- Ejecting the Cob: The combine ejects the cob out of the back, leaving behind the kernels.
Summary of Popcorn Seed Extraction
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| Harvesting Ears | The "corn head" on a combine detaches the ears from the corn stalks. |
| Feeding to Combine | The ears are fed into the combine for processing. |
| Shelling Kernels | The combine separates the popcorn kernels from the cob. |
| Cob Ejection | The empty cobs are ejected from the back of the combine, leaving the kernels ready for storage and processing. |
The harvested kernels are then cleaned and processed, making them ready to be packaged and sold as popcorn seeds.
