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iSTATE BOARD OF AGRICULTURE 



tions than will cut seed. Whole seed averaging four ounces in weight that 

 was grown from vigorous, disease-free plants is quite satisfactory. Since 

 many potato diseases, however, produce small tubers it is very important that 

 the grower know the source of his seed stock. 



Fig. 12. The poor stand as shown in the rows on the right was due to the small cut seed pieces 

 rotting in the soil. Rows on the left planted with whole seed show a good stand. 



Generally the best results are secured where the seed is planted as fast as 

 it is cut, provided it is placed in cool, moist soil. Freshly cut seed when put 

 in a hot soil or cold, wet soil is likely to rot before the sprouts can take root. 

 The moisture on the cut surfaces under mifavorable soil conditions aids in 

 promoting the growth of vegetable rotting bacteria. In 1921 many potato 

 fields in the state were complete failures due to freshly cut seed rotting in the 

 hot soil. 



