Means Of Doubling A Crop Of Potatoes Without Increased Expenditure

A double crop of potatoes may be obtained by pursuing the following course: when the potatoes have come to maturity, take off the loose earth carefully without disturbing the old stem; pick away the tubers that are fit for immediate use; be careful not to disturb the main stalk, then cover over the small ones that are left, and add a little more earth. In about two months after, the latter crop will be more productive than the first.

How To Grow Large Potatoes

To improve the size of potatoes, whether planted with small or large, whole or even-cut tubers, when the plants are only a few inches high, let the shoots be reduced by pulling them up to one, two, or at most, three of the strongest. The tubers will consequently be fewer, and very much larger, also, in measure, nearly all fit for the table or the market. Growers may assure themselves of the efficacy of this method, by first experimenting upon a few rows.

Remedy For Frozen Potatoes

In the time of frosts, potatoes that have been affected thereby, should be laid in a perfectly dark place for some days after the thaw has commenced. If thawed in open day, they rot; but if in darkness, they do not rot; and they lose very little of their natural properties.

Potatoes Slightly Diseased Preserved By Peat Charcoal

When potatoes are slightly diseased, sprinkling peat charcoal among them, instantly stays the rot, takes away the bad smell, and renders them sweet and wholesome food. Potatoes may be kept in this way two years, and when planted the third, they will produce a good crop. The charcoal will also prevent the sound potatoes from being infected by the diseased ones. The charcoal need not be lost; it may be mixed with other manures when the potatoes are removed.