122 



Bulletin 244. 



Importance of testing germination power: 



In the case of kohlrabi, one sample of seed tested as low as 48 per 

 cent. It was returned to the seedsman. In the case of carrots, one sam- 

 ple tested as low as 15 per cent. Since the seed was imported and the 

 variety considered desirable, it was sown. On account of the low viabil- 

 ity the seeding was heavy and a good stand and profitable crop were then 

 secured. (See p. 130.) Over 80 seeds were sown, however, for every 



Fig. 34. — The Meeker disc harrow is one of the best implements for making a fine 

 seed-bed. It fines the soil but docs tiot compact it. It facilitates jiniform seeding. 



carrot grown, which gives a good idea of the vast waste attending the 

 purchase of seeds low in germination power. The lesson is, to buy all 

 seeds early in the season and test them for purity and viability. If this 

 had not been done the seeds would have been sown too thin. 



Time to sow: 



In the first two years, sowing from May 6-9 was better than June 

 12 with all roots. Late sowing was not repeated in 1906. In general, 

 early planting promotes keeping quality, as well as yield and dry-matter 

 content. The seeds should be planted about early corn-planting time, 



