12 The Harrison Potato. 



A word or two in regard to varieties. Tliis is a matter, to some extent, 

 of locality, and tlierefore no well-established rules can be laid down. Thus 

 far, none of the Goodrich Seedlings have given us satisfaction. The late 

 ones, like Garnet Chili, Harrison, and Pink Eye Rusty Coat for the reason 

 stated ; and the others are less valuable than Early York, which is the best 

 early and late-keeping potato that I know of for this locality. It has 

 been supposed that the Buckeye is identical ; but I think there is a Buckeye 

 that is not the true Early York. The Mercer is liable to rot, but is other- 

 wise a valuable variety. The Early Manley has done well, and is largely 

 grown under the name of Mountain Sprout. Sebec, Matthews's Early, and 

 an innumerable list of new varieties, have been tested from time to time, 

 and discarded. Once in five or six years, I prefer to procure seed from 

 points north, either Michigan, Wisconsin, or Minnesota. In those States, 

 the late-growing varieties are the most popular ; and of these the Peach- 

 blow takes the lead in the Chicago market, 



I have no objection to people amusing themselves with new varieties at 

 fabulous prices ; but, in the end, they will find that it does not pay ; better 

 go slow, and let those new varieties have a careful trial, and, if found valu- 

 able, it will be time to put them into general use. 



THE HARRISON POTATO. 



We believe there are few of the new sorts more productive than the 

 Harrison. Looking over the prize crops of the potato for 1868, we find, 

 in many instances, the Harrison to be the kind under cultivation. With 

 us, it proved nearly as productive as the Early Rose, though the quantity 

 of seed employed was, of course, much greater. If the soil is naturally 

 strong, and in good condition, we do not doubt six hundred bushels, and 

 upwards, may be easily obtained from an acre. The tubers are of good 

 size and form, white and handsome. So great is the yield, that it is par- 

 ticularly desirable for agricultural purposes, and its attractive appearance 

 makes it salable in the market. We think, however, that it will prove more 

 liable to disease than many other kinds ; and we consider the quality below 

 the standard required in a good table potato. 



