78 Truck Geowing in the South. 



BEETS. 



This crop is grown largely in the South for shipment 

 and usually shows good profit. It is easily grown and 

 hardy, surviving a temperature of 25, and is marketable 

 in 90 days from planting. 



Soil. 



Low land is unsuitable for beets, but abundant moisture 

 and quick growth are required to produce tender roots. 

 Irrigation is strongly advised for this crop, and several 

 applications of nitrate of soda in addition to 1,500 pounds 

 of complete fertilzer per acre. The soda should be sown 

 broadcast over the field after the dew has dried off. It 

 does not require a cultivation afterwards. Two applica-' 

 tions of 150 pounds per acre should be made; one when 

 the beets are six inches high, and the other when they be- 

 gin to form roots. This crop is much effected by root 

 knot and should not be planted on land infected with this 

 insect. Prepare the land thoroughly by deep breaking 

 with shovel and harrow, getting out all trash possible with 

 harrow and horse rake. Lay off rows 18 to 20 inches and 

 plant with horse drill, aiming to get about one plant to 

 each inch. If not planted too thickly, no thinning or 

 hoeing will be necessary. Care should be taken that the 

 ground is sufficiently moist, or the seed will not germinate. 

 If there is any doubt about the ground being moist 

 enough to germinate the dry seed, they should be soaked 

 for 24 hours before planting. Make the water as hot as 



