VEGETABLES 



371 



that those states in which such a sandy soil occurs in abun- 

 dance are the largest producers. Of course potatoes are 

 grown in cold, damp soil, but they are produced more quickly 

 and of better quality in rather dry and sandy soils. 



Cutting the tubers for planting has been described (p. 326). 

 Each piece should include one or two eyes with as much of 

 the tuber attached as possible, so that there may be abundant 

 food to start the young plants vigorously. 



FIG. 46. The potato plant : a, foliage and flowers ; b, single flower ; c, stamen, 

 showing the terminal pores through which the pollen is shed. After BAILLON. 



Early potatoes should be planted as soon as the danger of 

 frost is past, for potatoes are sensitive to frost. The cuttings 

 are planted two or three inches deep, in dry and warm soil, 

 and in tilling the ground is kept level until the plants are 

 nearly full grown. Then the rows are " hilled," which makes 

 the soil warmer and drier, and secures an earlier develop- 

 ment of tubers. 



Late potatoes are planted three or four weeks after the early 

 ones, and somewhat deeper, and there must be frequent level 



