312 



THE POTATO 



The selection and exhibition of potatoes is a fine 

 art in England, the potato being one of the princi- 

 pal features in their agricultural shows. Recent 

 shows in this country, notably the Chicago Land 

 Shows in 1909 and 1910 and 1911, and the New 

 York Land Show of 1911, have had most creditable 

 exhibits, and there are plans now under way for 

 displays better and more elaborate than any yet 

 made. During the next decade visitors to Ameri- 

 can agricultural fairs will see remarkable advances 

 in the modern potato. 



Exhibitions of the past have been a factor in 

 increasing the demand for high-class potatoes, and 

 in the future will be an even greater factor in mak- 

 ing demand and increasing per capita consump- 

 tion. These displays show discerning people that 

 there are potatoes and potatoes, the same as 

 other food products, and they teach themselves 

 to distinguish between the good, bad, and in- 

 different. 



The work of preparing potatoes for exhibit 

 should begin with the selection of strong, true-to- 

 type seed, and include everything that is correct in 

 cultural methods. A deep, mellow, well-aired seed 

 bed is especially important. This permits the tu- 

 bers to grow naturally and evenly. 



At digging time the potatoes are either carefully 

 dug with a fork, or selected as they are turned out 

 by the digger. The ground should be perfectly dry 

 and every precaution taken to prevent bruising and 

 peeling. This is particularly important when the 

 tubers are not entirely ripe. 



As they are gathered they should be allowed to 

 remain in the sun only long enough to dry and 

 harden the skin — probably two or three hours. 

 As soon as thoroughly dry, the potatoes may be 



