48 SUGAR BEET SEED. 



The roots from these experimental patches allow a 

 basis of comparisons that should be made in October, 

 before the final regular selection. It is most impor- 

 tant in the formation of superior types to keep in 

 a tabulated form the entire history of the beets which 

 promise favorably for the creation of a race, the out- 

 come of the individual type. Photographs should be 

 taken so as to make doubly sure that the shape is 

 retained in the family that follows. The work of plant- 

 ing the resulting seed and repeating the selecting from 

 the beets obtained, demands a series of years and great 

 patience. The seed from each special mother should 

 be planted apart; thus forming numerous fields of 

 experimental research. When the best type is deter- 

 mined upon, the creation of the race can commence 

 upon a solid basis. The race obtained through man's 

 persistency differs from the natural race; while the 

 latter transmits its characteristics with extraordinary 

 tenacity for a long period of years, the artificial race is 

 very much influenced by any change of conditions. 



Respecting this question, it is interesting to call 

 attention to the theory of Prof. Nowoczeck, who, in a 

 special work, suggested tjiat the typical Vilmorin be 

 crossed with the typical Knauer, and the result would 

 possibly be advantageous to each. For, while the 

 Electoral is suited to calcareous soil, the Vilmorin has 

 other advantages. Well, the certain result which would 

 follow will not be any typical beet, but a mixture of 

 hybrids, of endless shapes, differing in the color, shape 

 of leaves, etc. Even in the Vilmorin selection, which 

 commenced some forty years ago, the original parent 

 Beta's characteristics are plainly visible, as shown by 

 its yellow leaves. Proving that, even with endless 

 care, atavism still remains a force with which 

 to contend. 



Varieties. — Whatever be the care in selection, 

 there is always the necessity of refreshing the original 



