19 



plants which were strong and vigorous from the start and 

 grew slowly to large, well developed stalks the flowers were 

 larger, brighter in color and the bolls were also well formed 

 and healthy in looks. The resulting fiber, of course, under 

 such conditions, was possessed of the best qualities. The 

 twenty-eight best forms given in another part of this bulle- 

 tin (page 21) were large, finely developed plants that were 

 well fruited, and in all respects healthy and vigorous. 



The experiments are not yet far enough advanced to an- 

 swer the fourth question, and it will, therefore, be deferred 

 until progress will warrant the printing of another bulletin 

 on this subject. 



5. What are the properties of a ivell formed cotton fher ? 

 and hoio near do the crossed forms in this bulletin apjjroach the 

 perfect condition ? 



Experience has proven that the perfect staple must have — 



(1) Complete maturity throughout the entire length. 



(2) Uniform twist from end to end. 



(3) Uniform width in all parts. 



(4) Maximum length. 



(5) Purity in color. 



The table of results show that the crosses, in nearly every 

 instance, have improved the condition of the cotton, and, in 

 some individuals, remarkably so. The length of the fiber 

 has been increased in numerous cases, and the strength 

 almost doubled. It is true that the percentage of fiber is 

 not as great as we would desire, but this is due to the in- 

 creased size of the seed. Both female forms on which the 

 crosses were made, are large seed varieties and the result- 

 ing cross would naturally tend towards an increased size in 

 the portion of the plant. Experiments may enable us to 

 raise the percentage of the fiber after the seed-coat has been 

 evolved into a stable, healthy condition. It may be noticed, 

 however, that although the percentage of fiber in the crossed 

 plants is smaller than that produced by the originals, still, 

 the actual weight of the former is frequently nearly double 

 that of the latter. 



