ROOT CKoP». 



187 



The tubers after digging are treated in different ways. A Large per- 

 centage of the growers have of recent years been sending their produce to 

 market straight from the paddock. In this case the large potatoes are first 

 picked up and bagged and carted immediately to the station, the smaller 

 tubers being bagged separately and stored for future use for seed and pig- 

 feed 



One form of Potato Digger. Rear view, showing tubers leaving revolving apron an"l 

 falling on riddle. 



Storing. 



The question of the treatment of seed tubers after digging has already 

 been discussed. With those intended for culinary purposes it must be 

 remembered that light causes a yellowing of the flesh, and produces bad 

 boiling qualities; consequently, when any method of storing is adopted, it is 

 necessary that the light should be excluded. 



In order to prevent the spread of rot, the potatoes should be perfectly dry, 

 no matter which method of storage is adopted. Pitting is not recommended 

 where it can be possibly avoided. 



It is preferable that the storing be carried out in sheds which are well 

 ventilated, the potatoes being covered with straw or hessian to exclude light. 



Where large areas are grown and pitting must be resorted to, a system of 

 ventilation should be provided by leaving openings and filling them with 

 straw, covering in such a manner as to keep out the rain, and at the same 

 time to allow a free passage of air. 



When dug, the potatoes should be left exposed to the sun for a little time 

 before bagging. This will allow them to dry thoroughly, and there will be 

 Joss adhering earth. 



