Evening Republican, Volume 15, Number 176, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 27 July 1911 — Free Seed Testing for Indiana and Seed Growers [ARTICLE+ILLUSTRATION]

Free Seed Testing for Indiana and Seed Growers

By G. M. FRIER

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Alfalfa seed should be not less than 98 per cent pure. Not less than 97 per cent of the seed should be visible. Seed, however, which is 98 per cent, pure may contain hundreds of noxipuff weed seeds per pound of alfalfa, or, the other two per cent, may 'be mainly Inert matter of which practically all seed carries a greater or less amount. Dodder is a common Impurity in alfalfa seed. Alfalfa containing Dodder should not be used. There are a score or more of other noxious weed seed impurities which If scattered over the land in alfalfa or other crop seed mean disappointment and loss instead of a good stand

and a large crop. Several other factors contribute toward success or fallare in alfalfa growing, but the matter of securing a high class seed is -one of the most important Very close examination of seed with a small

magnifying glass together with the making of germination tests before buying are indispensable if one would be sure of getting good seed. Tbe United States Department of Agriculture in conjunction with the Agricultural Extension Department of Purdue university maintains a seed

testing laboratory for Indiana farmers and seed dealers. Before purchasing your supply of seed, procure samples representative of the seed offered. A sample should consist of two or three tablespoonfuls of seed. Place distinguishing marks such as a number or a letter on each sample and send in to tbe laboratory. Reports as to per cent pure seed, per cent, of Inert matter, common names and amount of each weed seed impurity as well as the per cent of seed that will germinate will be promptly furnished. Many failures in attempts' to establish alfalfa fields are due wholly or largely to poor seed. Alfalfa seed sold in Indiana varies much In quality. Why not send samples to the seed laboratory to be tested before buying. Address all samples, Branch Seed Laboratory, Purdue University, La Fayette, Ind.

Good Seed of Alfalfa.

Imported Screenings Sold as Alfalfa Seed.