THE WAUPACA POST

February 15, 1883

 

Potatoes

 

            EDITOR POST - Noticing your invitation to farmers to give their experience in raising potatoes, I have decided to set the ball in motion.  Briefly stated, I am no longer in love with the Rose potato for market.  Admitting its good qualities - that of being a symmetrical and beautiful potato, and of the best eating qualities - it has deteriorated as a yielder to such an extent that it is no longer a profitable potato to raise for the market.  I shall raise a few for my own use, however.  The Burbank seedling has a good reputation, but from experience I know nothing of it.  I would like to hear from some of the farmers who have raised them. The Peerless is probably the most profitable market potato raised here last season.  That and the Mammoth Pearl are nearly the same in quality and looks.  It is quite difficult for some of the farmers to distinguish one from the other.  I have raised each and cannot say which I prefer.  I know I shall raise them instead of the Rose.  The Snowflake is unquestionably a good yielder, but for eating is inferior to the Rose, Burbank and White Elephant yet as good as the Pearl and Peerless.  I have never raised any of the White Elephant but have heard it highly recommended as a yielder.  I am not a newspaper writer, nor have I much to say on the potato subject.  I am anxious to get the potato growers interested in the importance of giving their views through the papers, that the farmers in general may be benefited.  I merely write to start the movement, which I sincerely hope will take a boom.            SUBSCRIBER.