1) Using kernel weights only gives a rapid and accurate test of differences between varieties.
2) Ten nuts are adequate for a single sample.
3) The location of the tree with reference to climate and soil is probably the most important single factor influencing kernel yield. No evidence was obtained, however, to indicate that the varieties ranked significantly different at different locations.
4) If reasonable care is used in cracking the differences due to different operators tend to be non-significant.
The statistical proof that a ten-nut sample is adequate and that differences between operators are not significant are two findings that are important in setting up a schedule.
During the past year further testing has been done, in which scores were computed from ten-nut samples.[A] The samples had preliminary cool, dry storage to assure comparable moisture content. Enough nuts were cracked in each sample to secure ten that were well filled. Empty nuts were recorded. The following data were kept for each sample:
1) The weight of the kernels recovered in first crack in grams.
2) The total weight of the kernels in grams.
3) The number of quarters and number of halves recovered.
Scores were computed as 1) the weight of the first crack in grams plus 2) half of the total weight of the kernels recovered in grams plus 3) the number of quarters divided by four and, 4) the number of halves divided by two. In this score, it was considered that the crackability of the sample was measured by the weight of the first crack; the yield, by the total weight of kernels secured from the sample; the marketability by the number of quarters and halves. From the use of this schedule scores were secured ranging from 83.9 for the variety Thomas grown in Maryland to 37.4 for the variety Huen, which is a small nut giving relatively small kernel yield.