1912.] PUBLIC DOCUMENT — No. 31. 77 



by no means the most essential factors, and eannot be compared 

 with snch important considerations as strain, etc. The seed 

 of a certain strain, even if it contains 10 per cent, impnrities, 

 is better than one that is pure and of an inferior variety. 



The writer has studied the seed question from various points 

 of view, — from that of the seed importer, the seed dealer and 

 the farmer, — and is well aware that there are a great many 

 difficulties associated with the seed problem which cannot be 

 overcome by legislation. The importer, retailer and farmer 

 are interested in the seed question, and the reliable dealer is 

 anxious to put on the market as good seed as possible. We are 

 of the opinion, however, that the matter is a delicate one, and 

 whatever is accomplished in the line of legislation must be done 

 cautiously and in a spirit of co-operation. 



As already stated, the collecting of seed samples in the open 

 market or from dealers each year would greatly improve condi- 

 tions if tliese samples were analyzed and tested for purity and 

 germination and the results published. A law requiring an 

 approximate guarantee concerning the germination and purity 

 of certain seeds, especially those sold in packages of over 5 

 pounds, would also have a salutary effect. AYe repeat that we 

 do not consider it wise to load our statute books, however, with 

 impractical laws ; any restrictions relating to the sale of seed 

 should conform to common sense. We cannot compel nature, 

 by any form of legislation, to produce a definite quality of 

 seeds each year; neither have we the right to ask dealers to 

 accomplish what is impossible. Publicity, in our opinion, 

 would constitute the best corrective for abuses. 



