284 THE SUGAR BEET. 



of all that have been noticed up to the present day is 

 the hrown penetration, similar to the well-known potato 

 disease. This was noticed for the first time in France in 

 1846 by numerous farmers. A committee was appointed 

 to investigate the causes of it, and at the same time 

 to make suggestions regarding a method for prevent- 

 ing its renewal ; having for presidents Mr. Dumas and 

 Mr. Payen. Their report was published, and, with a 

 few exceptions, we are happy to state, that from time 

 to time we have been able to testify to the truth of the 

 theories therein advanced. 



The first external evidences are brownish spots on 

 the lower leaves, which shortly cause them to droop, 

 and, as the malady advances, the entire number have 

 the same fate, and frequently fall to the ground, and 

 are replaced by a second growth. 



Often the beet is attacked, while but few external 

 indications are apparent to indicate the existence of 

 the disease. A section should be made through the 

 axis of the root, when this brown penetration is quite 

 visible.^ The portion most affected seems to be the 

 centre itself, then continuing until it penetrates the 

 entire diameter, after which it seems to extend rapidly 

 to the outer portions. This disease, or one similar, 

 frequently attacks the radicle. In fig. 75 we suppose 

 the radicle in a perfect condition. Above the spongiole 

 may be noticed a certain number of hairs gathered 



1 This should be noticed immediately, as, even in a healthy beet, if exposed 

 to the air it will change its color. 



