CULTURAL DIRECTIONS 



245 



Numerous investigations Iiave been made pertaining to 

 the control of bean anthracnose. Seed treatments of 

 various liinds and spraying have been tried, but with un- 

 satisfactor}^ results. The planting of healthy seed is 

 unquestionably the best preventive measure. If seed 

 and soil are free from the disease, there can be no an- 

 thracnose. Seed selection, then, is of prime importance, 

 and the matter should have closer attention among both 

 home and commercial growers. 



FIG. 63. FIELD OF GARDEN BEETS 



BEET (Beta vulgaris) 



318. History and importance. — The plant from which 

 the various types of beets have been originated is native 

 to the seacoast of South Europe. Cultivated forms 

 have been grown for more than two thousand years. The 

 beet is an important vegetable in European countries 

 and is largely grown in America, where soil and climatic 

 conditions are suitable. The vegetable is especially val- 

 ua))le to market gardeners who follow the most intensive 



