AMERICAN POTATOES: CLASSIFICATION AND DESCRIPTIONS. 3 
While this is an easy and simple classification to follow, particu- 
larly in the Rose group, it is impossible to make any close study of 
varietal relationship based on the shape of the tuber alone. Milward’s 
classification is, of course, only intended to represent three standard 
market types of potatoes which are commonly recognized by the 
dealer when purchasing table stock. All of the varieties of the Rural 
and Green Mountain types fall into the round group, and these are 
generally known as Rurals. Those of the long-tuber type are gen- 
erally known as Burbanks. The Rose group includes all varieties 
having clongated or ovoid tubers with flesh-colored or pink skin. In 
some respects this classification is most unfortunate, since it does not 
encourage the purification of varieties as regards mixture. Unscrupu- 
lous dealers have taken advantage of this situation and have disposed 
of such stock for seed purposes, thereby contributing in a large meas- 
ure to the present nomenclatorial difficulties.’ 
The object of this bulletin is to furnish a working plan which may 
be used in determining the group or family to which a variety belongs. 
It is hoped that in many cases it will also make possible the determi- 
nation of the varieties themselves. 
PROPOSED SYSTEM OF CLASSIFICATION. 
In presenting the following classification key and group descrip- 
tions, no one realizes more clearly than does the writer that there is 
still much to be desired. It is hoped, however, that this classifica- 
tion will serve as a starting pomt upon which to base further studies. 
It is quite probable that the groups here presented will in many cases 
resolve themselves into one or more subgroups or sections which are 
based on finer distinctions than those given for the group as a whole. 
‘It is equally certain that some new groups will have to be made in 
order to include those varieties which do not at present seem to fit 
into any of the classes now proposed. 
The value of studying varietal groups, rather than a collection of 
varieties as a whole, can not be too strongly emphasized. When 
the varieties falling into such groups are planted in adjacent rows the 
comparative differences, as well as similarities, are more easily noted. 
The recognition of old varieties under new names is almost certain 
1 Since the preparation of this manuscript, the Agricultural Extension Department of the Iowa State 
College of Agriculture has published Extension Bulletin No. 20, entitled ‘Identification of Potato Vari- 
eties.”” The author of this bulletin, C. L. Fitch, makes the following statement: ‘‘ The identification of 
_ varieties of potatoes will be considered under three heads: 1. The varieties of interest to lowa growers 
and merchants, pp. 3-4. 2. Tubers described and tuber parts named; the influence of conditions on 
Shape and color, pp. 5-14. 3. Varieties described and identified by the tuber form and color markings, 
pp. 14-32.” 
Under part 3 the author discusses seven groups, or classes, as follows: Rural, Early Ohio, Irish Cob- 
_ bler, Green Mountain, Burbank, Peerless or Pearl, and Bliss Triumph. Each group is well illustrated 
& 
by photographs showing the range of variation in shape of the tubers. Taken as a whole, the bulletin is 
- an exceedingly interesting one and should prove of considerable value in the study of potato varieties. 
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