The stalk strength tester of the present invention includes an internal shaft and an external shaft in telescopic relationship. Pivotally associated with the upper end of the internal shaft is a trough-like stalk cradle. A set of measurement markers are on the upper end of the internal shaft and a rubber ring is around the internal shaft and abuts the external shaft. Associated with the other end of the internal shaft is a tension member. A tension adjustment structure is provided for adjusting the tension in the tension member. In operation, a stalk is positioned into the cradle and the tester is pushed against it. The internal shaft telescopically slides against the tension member and into the external shaft until the cradle pivots at which time the rubber ring remains in a position relative to one of the markers as an indicator of the tension measured.