SELECTING VARIETIES 



535 



root cuttings. In the fall take strong roots from vigorous 

 plants, cut in pieces 2 to 4 inches long, store in sand kept moist, 

 but not wet, or in sawdust where the temperature is above 

 freezing. Plant in early spring 4 to 8 inches apart in furrows,^ 

 covering with 3 to 4 inches of soil. Keep thoroughly culti- 

 vated. The plants will usually be large enough the following 

 spring for field planting. 



The dewberry propagates either from tips or root cuttmgs. 

 Most plants are secured from tips, but both methods give 

 strong plants. 



When buying plants from the nursery, order first-grade 

 plants of the previous year's growth. Heel them in promptly 

 on arrival, unless they are to be set at once. 



5. Selecting Varieties. 



Procedure: 



{a) Consider local adaptations of varieties. 

 (6) Consider need for cross-pollination. 



(a) Consider Local Adaptations of Varieties. Consult the 

 local state experiment station about varieties. The judgment 

 of successful growers in the region is valuable. There is great 

 difference in adaptability and hardiness of varieties in various 

 sections. There is much room for improvement in varieties, 

 and doubtless better sorts for certain conditions will appear. 

 Some of the experiment stations are directing much careful 

 effort to this matter, and new developments should be watched 

 closely. The lists given under ^^General Information'' at the 

 close of the chapter are guides only. The varieties mentioned 

 should at least be considered in making selections. Check 

 them against local experience and judgment. 



(6) Consider Need for Cross-Pollination. Practically all 

 the commercial varieties of raspberries are self-fruitful, and 

 as a result can be planted in solid blocks. Very little experi- 

 mental evidence is available on this question for red, purple, 

 or black raspberries, but the fact that practically all the com- 



