21G BuKEAu OF Farmeus' Institutes. 



because we would get a good supply of phosphoric acid, which, as 

 a rule, is most needed. 



To Mr. Chapman. — Which shall we do, plant potatoes deeply or shallow? 



Answer. — In a large number of experiments made at the 

 stations in the United States, results showed that about four 

 inches gave best results. A depth of eight inches has given good 

 results; so has a depth of but two inches; but the average was 

 not as good as from those planted four inches deep. 



What is the essential thing to be sought for in growing potatoes? 



Answer. — I believe that it is to obtain a strong, vigorous, 

 healthy growth of leaf. The tuber makes the most of its growth 

 during the last two weeks, therefore there must be a good supply 

 of starch in the leaf to send down to the tuber. If the foliage has 

 been eaten by bugs or has become blighted, this supply will be 

 cut off. 



Which variety of potatoes is most valuable, and why? 



Answer. — Bound potatoes bring more in the market than do 

 long ones. The Carmans are the favorite now. Rural New Yorker 

 seems to be running out; but there are some dealers who are sell- 

 ing any round variety they have for Carmans. 



What can I do to prevent wire worms working in potatoes? 



Answer. — Plow the ground in the fall, just before it freezes, 

 and give a short rotation of crops, to destroy the worms. 



Mr. Hardy. — My potatoes were worm eaten, but a neighbor 

 planted corn-cobs in his potato hills. The worms left the pota- 

 toes and congregated on the cobs. I saw them, myself. The 

 potatoes were clean, and I shall try the experiment myself this 

 year. 



Mr. Converse. — That might do in the garden, but I would not 

 care to try it on two or three acres. 



What variety of potatoes give the best returns on clay soil, on hillside 

 land? 



Mr. Cook. — How many of you grow potatoes? (Nearly every 

 hand went up.) 



A Farmer. — Carman Nos. 1 and 3 are best. 



