SWEET POTATOES 



249 



Before marketing, potatoes are graded as to size, shape, 

 second growth, and color. Two markets are available, 

 the local and the distant. Eastern-shore farmers sell their 

 produce through selected receivers who charge about 8 per 

 cent commission. The receivers pay an agent 3 per cent 



for buying and for in- 

 structing the growers 

 in methods of grading, 

 assorting, and packing. 

 187. Sweet potatoes are 

 true roots. They are 

 grown in nearly all the 

 states, particularly in 

 SWEET POTATOES. the South. The best 



quality is produced in 



warm, well-drained, sandy soils. It is a common practice 

 to use a complete fertilizer, high in potash, for sweet 

 potatoes. The vines make rapid growth, and when a foot 

 or more long may be trimmed. The cuttings so obtained 

 may be used for further planting. 



PRACTICAL QUESTIONS 



1. Where is the potato belt of the United States? 2. What is 

 meant by "potato seed"? 3. Name four points to be considered 

 in seed selection. 4. Explain why a potato tuber is not a root. 

 5. What facts are to be considered in planting potatoes ? 6. Dis- 

 cuss methods for cultivating and harvesting. 7. Name two condi- 

 tions that promote rot. 



HOME EXERCISES 



1. If potatoes are a leading local crop, a potato club should be 

 formed. Write to the State Agricultural College or to the Bureau of 

 Plant Industry, Department of Agriculture, Washington, D. C., for 

 blanks similar to those spoken of at the close of the last chapter. 

 An eighth or a quarter of an acre may be used for the club work. 

 A report should be made on the preparation of the plat, the planting, 



