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itable, were it not for the disease so prevalent for a few years 

 past. Since the appearance of the contagion the production 

 of the crop has been almost abandoned, except in small quanti- 

 ties for domestic use or home market; none scarcely being 

 raised for transportation. Considerable reluctance is mani- 

 fested by most farmers to experiment in the culture of this 

 crop, in order to devise means to arrest the progress of the 

 disease. They seem to be awaiting the result of trials by 

 others. 



We are aware that numerous scientific experiments have 

 been made, and as many remedies recommended, but have in 

 most cases proved a failure, and where successful are to most 

 farmers inaccessible. 



By a course of careful observation, perseveringly practiced 

 almost since the first appearance of the disease, we are led 

 to believe that the principal cause of disease or rot is an ex- 

 cess of moisture, or at least it is promoted by moisture. We 

 give a brief statement of means whereby the disease may 

 to considerable extent be obviated. In selecting potatoes for 

 seed care should be taken to get those of a large size, they 

 are better matured than small ones, and will ensure a more 

 speedy and vigorous germination, which is desirable. 



The planting should be performed as early as April first, or 

 at least as early as the condition of the ground will admit, 

 of which the farmer must be judge. The ground selected 

 must be a side hill or at least a location on which water 

 never stands. The rows or drills running in a direction that 

 they will not obstruct running water. The plowing (which 

 should be very deep and subsoiled if possible,) to be done 

 some days previous to seeding time to allow the earth time 

 to settle sufficiently to cast a furrow whilst planting. 



These precautionary measures being observed, all that re- 

 mains to be done, is to to plant well and keep the field clear 

 of weeds while growing by proper tillage, and the crop will 

 soon ripen, perhaps by the beginning of August if the plant- 

 ing is done as early as recommended. So soon as the vines 



