632 ADVERTISEMENT. 



gent and experienced writers, relating to the nature, cul- 

 tivation, disease and cure of the potato, is truly remark- 

 able, and we think auspicious. 



Among the principal points, relating to which there is 

 a general concurrence, are the following : — 



The Soundness and Vitality of the Seed. Renew- 

 ing the seed from the ball of healthy vigorous plants, 

 every few years, — even resorting to the native place in 

 South America, and taking the seed from the wild potato, 

 is considered important. When potatoes are to be raised 

 from the tuber, sound healthy whole potatoes are recom- 

 mended for planting. Cutting potatoes is decidedly con- 

 demned. Anything which im_pairs the vitality of the 

 seed increases the liability to disease. 



Quality or kind of Soil. A dry, light, loose, warm 

 soil, is considered necessary to the soundness and health 

 of the vegetable, as well as to its richness and flavor ; the 

 latter depending quite as much on the quality of soil, as 

 on the variety of seed. A wet, heavy, compact soil, di- 

 rectly promotes the disorder. Far up on the side of a 

 mountain or hill is a favorable location for the growth 

 of the potato ; and new land contains more of the qual- 

 ities requisite for its nourishment and health, than old 

 or worn out soils. 



Influence of Atmosphere. Potatoes should be as 

 little exposed to the air as conveniently may be. Their 

 natural place is under ground. By too much exposure 

 they become poisoned and turn green. Some recommend 

 depositing them for the winter in holes under ground in 

 a dry soil ; or if kept in a cellar, to preserve them dry, 

 in small quantities, in sand ; and to keep them cool. 

 Keeping large quantities in a body in the cellar is by 

 some supposed to promote heat and putrefaction. Plant- 

 ing in the fall is recommended by some, as potatoes left 



