104 APPENDIX. 



" The chief points to be attended to, with a view 

 to the attainment of the object, namely, the increase 

 of tubers, are 



1. To increase the power in the roots, and 



2. To check the transformation which occurs 

 in the leaf. 



" We obtain both ends simultaneously, if, in the 

 5th, 6th, and 7th week after setting the tubers, 

 and in the 4th and 5th week after planting out 

 germs furnished with roots, or at a time when the 

 plants reach the height of six to nine inches above 

 the soil, we pinch off the extreme points of the 

 branches or twigs to the extent of half an inch 

 downwards,* and repeat this on every branch or 

 twig, in the 10th and llth week, no matter at what 

 time of day. 



" The consequences of this check to the develop- 

 ment of the stem and branches, is a stimulus to the 

 nutrient matters in the plant in the direction of the 

 increase, both of roots and of the multiplication of the 

 branches of the stem above ground, which not only 

 favours the power of the root, but also strengthens 

 the leaves and stalks to such a degree, that the 

 matters prepared by the physiological action of 

 these parts are increased and applied to the forma- 

 tion of tubers, while at the same time the direct 



* Any one would be bitterly disappointed, who on the prin- 

 ciple that " there cannot be too much of a good thing," should 

 take off more than is here recommended, in order to use it as 

 fodder. 



