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Corn detasseling is the process of removing the pollen-producing tassels from corn plants, primarily to control pollination in seed corn production. This is done to ensure that specific, desirable traits are passed on through cross-pollination between different corn varieties. Detasseling is a common summer job, particularly for young people in the Midwest, and can involve both mechanical and manual labor.
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Corn Topping (or detasseling) involves walking up and down the rows of corn and pulling the tassel (part at the very top of the stock) out and carefully dropping it in the row so it doesn't spread pollen. We start early to work as much as possible before it gets hot, but continue until the assigned daily field(s) get finished. I always recommend a hat.
When you start topping your assigned row, the corn is often tall enough that you can't easily be seen once you are 20 or so yards into the row. We keep track of where people are by leaving a water bottle in the row you are walking down. These are in the sun and get hot, so an insulated water bottle (think stanley tumbler) is a must! There are water and gatorade coolers at the top and bottom of fields so you can refill or grab a quick cup before continuing on.
We start most days at 7am, and then break for lunch for one hour starting between 11 and noon, depending on what field we are in. Everyone is welcome to come to the house where there is a bunch of shaded grass under large trees to relax, rejuvenate, and eat lunch. There is a bathroom and coolers of gatorade and water to help stay hydrated. If you go home or somewhere offsite for lunch, always ask what field to meet at after lunch and plan to be there one hour from when we start.
better than limited hours all summer or all year long, we work long and hard for about 4 weeks.
You can do anything. We truly believe this. Choosing to work in the heat for several hours shows character and discipline.
You'll learn about bull rows, how and where they are planted, and the various species of corn and what they are for. It's fun to know your stuff!
Everyone is paid by the hour, and you collect your check at the end of the season. You can roughly expect to make your age as an hourly wage, but this is influenced by attitude, diligence, and skill.
It's hard not to make friends with the people you work hard next to. You'll be able to support, teach, and encourage many around you.
We have decades of experience in transforming and maintaining beautiful, vibrant, and healthy corn fields. You are now part of the legacy.
If this is your first time topping and you have question, just text us here and we'll be happy to chat.
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