KTOP HandBook

Below is an outline of Corntopping;

- Providing additional insight into what Corntopping is.

- What a day of Corntopping looks like.

- What you need to know in order to be successful and more.

What is Corntopping?

Corntopping is:

Corntopping is the process of removing the tassel, a flower like growth at the top of the corn stalk.

We are hired to pull the tassel
because so the plants to cross pollinate.

Two Types of Corn

1st. Bull row (we never top these)
2nd. The female row.

The female row is where the corntopping is done leaving it open to be pollinated by the Bull row of corn.

If each tassel is not pulled the hybrid corn will be ruined.

The 4 Steps to Corntopping

1. Find the Tassel
2. Grab the base of the Tassel
3. Pull the entire Tassel from the Corn Stalk
4. Throw it on the ground

When you are in the Field

Tassels are pulled straight out of the top of the corn plant. Corn Stalks vary in height, you will need to look high and low for the tassels in each row you work in.

When you are assigned a "row"
You work the right side only all the way down and then when you get to the end of
the row YOU STAY IN YOUR ROW and turn around working the right side (which
use to be your left until you turned around) all the way back.

What Should you Bring to Work?

ANY MEDICAL TREATMENTS OR MEDICATION YOU REQUIRE

(ie for bee stings, allergies, headaches or anything)
Please make us aware of any medical issues you may have so that we can be aware.

WATER

At least, 1 Gallon Water in thermos (with your last name written with permanent marker)

***This is required by OSHA.***

Water is needed for your body & Your name identifies you on the field.

LUNCH

You are responsible for providing your own lunch. Many detasselers bring their lunch in a small cooler so they can use the cooler to sit on while they eat.

Bug Spray/Sunscreen
There is little to no shade, we highly recommend that you bring and wear sunscreen.

What Should you Wear?

Comfortable Shoes

You may walk up to several miles a day!

We suggest old shoes or at least ones that are

broken in already.

Comfortable & Light

We recommend keeping things light and wearing layers so as the morning turns into day you can adjust as needed.

Poncho / Garbage Bag

The corn can be very wet in the morning from dew or rain.

Many corntoppers wear gear in the mornings to stay dry and
warm, then remove it as

the day progresses and

the corn dries.

Bandana/Handkercheif

These can be tied around the neck, to protect the neck, eyes,

and mouth if corn is tall.

Gloves- if you want protection for your hands.
Hat or Sunglasses- for further protection from the sun.

Helpful Hints:

The first few days of corn topping will always be the hardest for a few reasons.

First, it's slower to “open” a field for the first few times.
Second, you are getting used to the environment such as how to walk in the rows. Don't give up because you are achy or tired.

Please make sure to drink plenty of water Including when you are at home the night before working to stay hydrated.

Helpful Reminders:

Go to bed earlier so waking up earlier is not as hard.
Eating around 5am is hard for most people so make sure you have a few snacks so you can eat without holding it in your hand while trying to walk and work.

IE: Quick bites or snacks

A fanny pack is a nice option for keeping snacks, gum or hard candies with you.