Abstract: Corn detasseling apparatus and method are disclosed whereby tassels are quickly and cleanly separated from corn plants while preventing damage to the leaves and the remainder of the stalk. The apparatus includes a detasseling head having two opposed rollers with alternating ridges and grooves which extend longitudinally with respect to the rotational axis of the rollers. The ridges and grooves of each roller intermesh with those of the opposing roller to form a wavy nip, and during rotation of the rollers, the tassels are securely grasped by the nip and pulled off the plants. In addition, the ridged rollers function as impellers which create forceful air currents that flow downward and blow the leaves of the plants away from the nip. Accordingly, the tassels are removed from the plant without any rough handling or damaging of the leaves, and with minimal cutting or shredding of the tassels to form objectionable trash.

Abstract: Corn detasseling apparatus is disclosed that comprises first and second sets of cylindrical segments aligned end-to-end to form first and second rollers, respectively, that are mounted on a frame in parallel contacting relationship. The circumferential surfaces of the cylindrical segments of the first roller are in contact with those of the second roller to define a detasseling nip. Since it is preferred that the circumferential surfaces of the cylindrical segments be made of a resilient material, the segments can be inflatable tires that are abutted end-to-end to form a roller, and in which case the circumferential surfaces are on the treads of the tires. In accordance with the present invention, the number of cylindrical segments in a set can be varied to adjust the length of the roller, the location of the segments on the roller can be changed to minimize wear, and damaged or worn segments can be replaced without having to replace an entire roller.