I ^ ■ — ^'^V"^ umVER'^TY'oFB.C.UBRARY^ 3 9424 05098 141 1 The Canadian Seed Growers' Association and its work INCLUDING THE CONSTITUTION, BY-LAWS AND REGULATIONS EDITED BY THE SECRETARY, AND AUTHORIZED TO BE PRINTED AT OTTAWA, SEPTEMBER, I9I5 TVkAGL ii^,^,. SOCESSINC-ONE The Canadian Seed Growers' Association and its work INCLUDING THE CONSTITUTION, BY-LAWS AND REGULATIONS EDITED BY THE SECRETARY, AND AUTHORIZED TO BE PRINTED AT OTTAWA, SEPTEMBER, I9I5 CANADIAN SEED GROWERS' ASSOCIATION. HEAD OFFICE, CANADIAN BUILDING, OTTAWA, ONTARIO. ©fflccrs, 1915:^16. President — Dr. James W. Robertson. Vice-Presidents — Prof. C. A. Zuvitz, Guelph, Out. ; Prof. L. S. Klinck, Vancou- ver, B.C. Secretary and Treasurer — L. H. Newman, B.S.A., Canadian Building, Ottawa, Ont. Executive Council — Dr. James W. Robertson, L. H. Newman, Prof. C. A. Zavitz, C. F. Bailey, Dept. Agriculture, Toronto : H. N. Thompson, Dept. Agriculture, Regina, Sask. ; Prof. T. J. Harrison, Agricultural College, Winnipeg, Man. ; Prof. James Murray, ]^IacDonald College, P.Q. Directors — Prof. C. A. Zavitz, Prof. L. S. Klinck, Prof. John Bracken, Agricultural College, Saskatoon, Sask. ; E. A. Howes, Edmonton, Alta. ; William Pal- mer, Scotch Lake, N.B. ; Narcisse Savoie, Ste. Anne de la Pocatiere, P.Q. ; W^illiam H. McGregor, Miseouche, P.E.I. ; Prof. T. J. Harrison, R. H. Car- ter, Fort Qu'Appelle, Sask. ; H. N. Thompson, Geo. Dow, Gilbert Plains, Mane ; A. Aastin, K imloop^, B.C. ; Prof. James Murray, W. L. MacFarlane, Fox Harbor, N.S. ; Theodore Ross, Charlottctown, P.E.I. ; Geo. Harcourt, Edmonton, Alta. ; C. F. Bailey, Toronto, Ont. Auditors — E. D. Eddy, Ottawa, Ont., and The Accountant, Department of Agricul- ture, Ottawa, Ont. NOTE — Since the officers are elected annually, the above list is subject to change. PART I. SOME CONSIDERATIONS REGARDING THE SEED QUESTION. Before discussing the work of the Association in detail, a few matters of general interest regarding the seed question as a whole will be considered. According to the reports of the Census and Statistics Branch of the De- partment of Trade of Commerce, over forty million bushels of seed are required annually in Canada to produce our ordinary farm crops, riamely Spring and Autumn wheat, oats, barley, pease, corn and potatoes. The amount used in each I'rovince is approximately as follows : — Seed Used Annually in Canada. Alberta, 3% million bushels; Saskatchewan, 121/2 million bushels; Manitoba, 3% million bushels ; Ontario, 11% million bushels; Quebec, 5V2 million bush ; New Brunswick, 1 million bushels ; Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island, 800 thousand bushels each. Average yields of farm crops in Canada. — Notwithstanding the immense total production realized from the above sowing, an examination of the re- turns reveals the significant fact that the average yield per acre is unneces- sarily low as compared with that obtained by our best farmers. Thus, the average yield of Spring Wheat per acre for all Canada is only about 19 bush- els ; that of oats 35 bushels, that of barley about 28 bushels, and that of pota- toes about 124 bushels. Many of our best farmers grow from 25 to 35 bushels of wheat, from 65 to 100 bushels of oats, from 40 to 50 bushels of barley and from 300 to 450 bushels of potatoes per acre. From this it is eviuent that the full producing power of the acre on the average farm is seldom reached. Means of Increasing Production per Acre. — The production per acre may be increased in foui- main ways, viz.: — (1) By the improvement of soil fertil- ity; (2) by the improvement in methods of cultivation and crop rotation; (3) by the prevention of injury by Aveeds, insects and plant diseases and (4) by the use of better seed. It is in the last of these various means of progress that the Canadian Seed Growers' Association is primarily interested, although, in the attainment of its end, the Association must necessarily observe all of the essentials of successful crop raising. It is only necessary to visit our local seed exhibitions, or, what is still more convincing, to examine the contents of the grain drill at seeding time on the average Canadian farm to find tangible evidence of the fact that the quality of seed which is still in common use is much inferior to what :t should be. The continued use of inferior seed is due to a variety of causes but perhaps more especially to the failure of the average farmer to appreciate as fully as he should the part which the seed plays in determining yield and quality in crops. The following elaboration of the various attributes of "Good Seed" should serve to emphasize the great importanx-e. first of making a careful choice of variety, and secondly, of ohtaining the test quality of seed of that variety. Good Seed Defined. I. 'Good Seed' ma^^ be defined as follows •. — Seed belonging to a variety which is superior in the following respects, viz.: — 1. Suitability for the conditions under which it is to be gpown. 2. Yielding power. 3. Purity. 4. Quality of product for marketing or feeding purposes. •3. Hardiness. 6. Strength of straw or stalk. 7. Ability to resist disease. II. Seed which in itself is superior in the following respects, viz. : — 1. Vital energy. 2. Size and development of kernels. 3. Uniformity of sample as regards size and development of kernel. 4. Maturity. 5. Freedom from disease. 6. Freedom from other damage of any kind. 7. Freedom from weed seeds. 8. Freedom from seeds of other cultivated kinds or varieties. I.— CONCERNING CHOICE OF VABIETY. 1. The suitability of a sort for the conditions under which it is to be grown is a matter deserving of the most careful consideration. Certain sorts thrive better on clay soils than on soils which are lighter, and vice versa ; some thrive better on moist soils than others, while some may be less sensitive to soil and climatic conditions than are other sorts. Marked differences often exist between different sorts in regard to number of days requ/red to attain maturity. Under certain conditions early maturing sorts are ar/ advantage. Under other conditions they are practically a necessity. The great importance of choosing the best available sort suggests at once the desirability of testing a number of those sorts which are most highly recom- mended by the Experimental Stations before deciding which should be grown as a main crop. Where a district is growing grain for seed, it will attain a reputation much more quickly where the number of sorts is limited than where many are being handled. The ability to purchase seed of any one variety in large quantities in a single centre is a matter which always appeals to the large buyer. 2. Yielding Power : — Decided differences often exist between sorts in yielding power. Many sorts have been discredited through unfair judg- ment ; others have obtained a wide distribution because of conditions which were purely accidental. The enormous influence on crops of such agencies as season, soil, manuring, cultivation and quality of seed used, demands that great care be taken in the testing of sorts lest the results be incorrectly inter- preted. In any case only the average results over a number of years can be accepted as a fair expression of the yielding power of a given sort. 3. Purity of Variety : — The possible advantages of pure sorts over those varieties -which contain tAvo or more different strains are worthy of note. In pure sorts all plants require practically the same conditions for germination and possess the same power of utilizing plant food ; they exhibit likewise the same attitude toward soil and climatic conditions and toward disease. The result is that if the soil conditions are uniform, the growth is uniformly even througliout the season and the maturity of all plants will take place practically at the same time. Experiments conducted at different ex- perimental stations go to show that the largest yields are obtainable from seed Avhich is allowed to mature perfectlj^ before cutting. If, therefore, the variety contains a mixture of late and early strains, the best quality of seed cannot be expected. Should harvesting be delayed in order to alloAv the latest strains to mature, the earlier strains will be "dead ripe" and shelling out before those which mature later are fit to cut. This may entail consid- erable loss. Pure sorts have another advantage over those which are mixed in that their botanical characters are relatively constant and therefore are more clearly defined and more easily recognized. This facilitates a much better control over seed and enables a more accurate determination to be made in regard to its genuineness. This is an important feature both for the seed dealer and for the buyer, as well as for the judge at exhibitions. Mixed varieties, consisting as they do of a number of distinct strains of varying practical values in regard not only to time of ripening but to yield ing power, stiffness of straw and resistance to disease, are likely to give a product of less value than that of pure sorts. These varieties may however, under certain circumstances have their advantages. Thus a variety may contain strains which differ from each other chiefly in their attitudes towards different conditions of soil and season. They may be almost identical in ap- pearance, may ripen simultaneously, may possess the same stiffness of straw and the same resistance against disease yet one may thrive best on soils which are lighter, warmer and drier while another may give better results on a heavier, colder and moister soil. Were a variety of such composition sown on a field in which the soil is exceedingly variable, it is conceivable that a better average might be obtained than from an absolutely pure sort which demands more exact conditions. The difficulty of knowing the real nature of the strains which go to make up a mixed variety is such, however, as to render it an unsafe practice to depend upon the possible virtues of a com- posite race. 4. Quality in a sort is a very important character and should be care- fully considered when a choice of variety is being made. In wheats very considerable differences exist between different sorts in regard to the quality of flour they produce. In oats the percentage of hull to kernel, which in this case is the common measure of quality, differs to a marked degree in different sorts. In fodder crops the quality of fodder produced by different varieties often exhibits marked differences. Determinations of quality on the basis of general appearances are frequently misleading. Thus, size and plumpness in oats often beguiles growers into introducing sorts which actually possess a high per cent, of hull to kernel. A good example is afforded in the "Tartar King" variety. In corn, ensilage varieties are too often judged on the basis of total volume rather than upon the quality of ensilage produced. 5. Hardiness. — In autumn sown crops, the matter of hardiness or ability to withstand the severe conditions of winter and early spring is an important character. The differences between different autumn wheat sorts, for example, in regard to hardiness is often very considerable, and should be duly observed in making a choice of sorts. 6. Strength of Straw. — The difference between sorts in this regard is noteworthy and should be taken into consideration when making a choice of sort. On poorer soils the danger from lodging is not so great as on soils in a high state of fertility. In the latter case a stiff strawed sort is of special value. 7. The Ability to Withstand or Resist Disease is an important qual- ity. Some sorts seem much more susceptible than others to such diseases as rust, smut and blight. II.— CONCERNING CHOICE OF SEED OF CHOSEN VARIETY. 1. Vital Energy. — High vital energy in seed or its power to germinate and develop into a strong, vigorous plant is naturally a matter of the very first importance. The fact that a seed may be able to germinate and at the same time possess a low degree of vital energy renders it impossible by means of germination tests to determine fully its ability to develop into a strong vigorous plant. Germination tests are valuable however in showing the per- centage of seed that will germinate under favorable conditions and thus in providing a clue as to its fitness to be used as seed. When the percentage germination is high after the tests have been running for four days in the case of cereals, clovers and many other kinds of seed, the 'vital energy' is found to be higher than where the per cent, germination in four days is low even though the final count after ten days shows a fairly high per cent. The percentage germination may easily be determined by placing 200 kernels in soil or sand or between sheets of blotting paper and keeping them moist and sufficiently warm for from 8 to 12 days or longer depending upon the kind of seed under consideration. From the number which germinate, the per cent germination may be quickly reckoned. In corn, each ear should be tested. This can be done hy taking a sample of six kernels from each ear and testing each lot separately. 2. Seed Should be Plump and Large for the Sort. — Each seed consists of a germ or embryo surrounded by reserve food. Under proper conditions the embryo begins to grow and we have what is popularly kno\vn as 'germina- tion of the seed.' During the early stages of growth the necessary plant food is obtained by the young plant from the reserve material contained in the seed for this purpose. Should the conditions of soil or season be unfavorable for early growth and should the seed be undersized or poorly developed, there may not be sufficient food to give the young plant a proper start. Under such conditions the development of the plant shall be weak from the begin- ning. Investigation shows that plants, like animals, when stunted at the start cannot attain their normal thriftiness — even though subsequeat con- ditions be favorable. The experimental evidence obtained from different sources as to the superiority of large, well-developed seed is abundant. This evidence way be summarized in the following manner: — (a) Plants from poorly developed seeds are likely to be less vigorous ami eousequently less productive. (b) Such plants usually require a longer time to develop and may there fore mature later. (e) They are more easily weakened or destroyed by insects and diseases. The size of kernel is of course a relative consideration since some sorts naturally produce smaller kernels than do others. "Gold Rain" oats, for example, produces a smaller kernel than does "Ligowo" or "White Probes- tier." The size of kernel by which a sort is characterized has no definite in- fluence upon the value of the sort as such. Certain large kernelled sorts of wheat and oats, for example, are less productive than are other sorts which normally produce a small kernel. The reverse may likewise bo the case. In the case of oats the "secondary" kernels are usually smaller than are the "primary." They have also a thinner hull. Investigations made by the Association with different varieties has shown there to be approximately seven pounds of hull less in 100 pounds of secondary oats than in the same weight of primary oats. This fact provides two arguments in favor of the severe grading of oats for seeding purposes. In the first place, the removal of the smaller secondary kernels leaves a sample composed of the larger primary kernels which on account of their size are likely to give better results when used for seed. This does not necessarily imply that by sowing better seed a lighter seeding is required per acre. In the second place, the secondary kernels secured as screenings from the fanning mill are more valuable for feeding purposes than are the primary kernels. In some countries, indeed, a higher price is paid for secondary kernels (screenings) for horse feed than for oats which have not been graded. By the severe grading of oats, therefore, not only is nothing lost but two positive gains may be realized. Where it is necessary to use seed from a "mixed" variety containing, as it may, large and small grained strains, it is considered safer practice to use seed of average size rather than the very largest seed. In pure sorts, on the other hand, the largest seed that may be obtained should always be sought for. 3. The seed sown should consist of kernels which are as nearly alike as possible as regards size, shape and development. — Where the seed sown con- sists of large, small and poorly developed kernels, the resulting crop is likely to consist of a mixture of weak and strong plants. During the growing season the weak individuals become more and more suppressed by the stronger so that the stand becomes thinner than it should be. The strong plants, more- over, mature as a rule, before the weaker, the result of which is that not only is the quality inferior but the crop is likewise reduced. 4. Seed should be perfectly matured. — Perfect maturity is indicated by the hardness, color and plumpness of the seed. Seed which is perfectly matured before harvesting has been found to give larger yields when sown than does seed taken from a crop which has been cut on the green side. 5. Seed should be free from disease. — The most common disease affecting cereals is smut. The Dominion Botanist, Mr. H. T. Giissow, has recently published an extensive account of Smut diseases of cultivated plants and how to combat them (Bulletin 73 of the Experimental Farm Series). This bulletin is a most valuable one and should be in the hands of every grain grower and member of the Association. It may be obtained free of charge by writing the Publications Branch. Dept. Agriculture, Ottawa. Potato Diseases. — The most destructive potato diseases are the "Scabs" and "Blights."' For a description of these diseases together with an outline as to how best to combat them the reader is referred to the following litera- ture, all of which are available free of charge at the Publications Branch, Dept. Agriculture, Ottawa : — (a) The Potato and Its Culture (Bulletin 49 Experimental Farm series), by W. T. Macoun, Ottawa. (b) Potato diseases transmitted by the use of unsound seed potatoes. (Circular No. 4, Experimental Farm series), by H. T. Giissow, Ottawa. (c) Potato Canker. (Bulletin No. 63 Experimental Farm series), by H. T. Giissow, Ottawa. Ont. (d) The Powdery Scab of Potatoes. (Farmer's Circular No. 3, Ex- mental Farm series), by J. W. Eastham, Ottawa, Ont. 6. Seed should be free from damage of any kind. — Injuries frequent- ly follow neglect to keep seed dry. Where this precaution is ignored moulds frequently develop, causing a lowering of the growing power. Care should also be taken in threshing seed in order to avoid breaking the kernel and thereby injuring the germ. It is a dangerous practise to thresh severely, or by other means "clip" the kernels, a practice which is frequently followed for the purpose of making the grain pack more closely in the measure, thus weighing heavier per bushel. This is especially dangerous in the case of bar- ley, which is very brittle and liable to break. REGARDING THE CHANGING OF SEED. It has been claimed by some that seed should be changed every few years, no matter under what condition it may have been produced. Others claim that seed to be sown on light soil should be secured from a crop produced on heavy soils and vice versa. Others claim that only under the most ex- ceptional conditions should seed be changed. While all of these views cannot be correct in their entirety, yet there is a certain amount of truth in each which is determined entirely by circumstances. The question is "when" should a change of seed be made. There is no doubt that considerable loss may sometimes result from using seed from a given crop when such crop is poor or otherwise unsuitable. Generally speaking, a change of seed should be made only in the follow- ing cases : — 10 (a) When seed of better and more serviceable sorts than those now be- ing used are available. — This can only \h' detennincd by carefully testing other sorts which seem to promise better than those now being cultivated. In the meantime, the old sort should be continued until absolute proof is obtained as to the relative standing of the new introduction. It may happen that changed conditions on a farm may make a change of sort desirable. (b) When a sort has become mixed with other sorts. — The desirability of using pure sorts has already been pointed out (See page 10). (c) When the crop becomes seriously damaged by reason of unfavorable weather or other agencies. — The danger of using seed which is not perfectly developed and Avhich has been harvested badly has already been referred to. It may happen, however, that seed of fair quality may be obtained from a crop which is partially damaged, but in no case should seed be used until it has been tested for germination and growing energy. (d) When seed has been damaged by threshing or by defective storing methods. (e) When suitable machinery is not available for cleaning seed proper- ly.— From what we have already said regarding the superiority of uniform and plump seed, the necessity of thoroughly cleaning all grain intended for seeding purposes is obvious. All seed should be run through a good fanning mill at least three times. If this cannot be done, it is advisable to procure seed of suitable quality and purity elsewhere. REGARDING DEGENERATION IN POTATOES, AND CHANGE OF SEED TUBERS. I The degeneration which is often noticed in potatoes is not regarded by our best authorities as due to any natural or inevitable "running out" of the sort, but rather to "the effects of certain conditions which weaken the vigor and invite disease." Potatoes seem to reach their highest state of develop- ment under cool moist conditions, seed tubers produced under such conditions usually giving better results than those grown in hotter and drier regions.* Where potato growing is prosecuted in these latter districts, it would seem desirable to obtain seed frequently from districts which allow the maximum •development of vigor. Where this practice is not followed, the vigor may gradually become weakened, resulting in a corresponding depreciation in yield and quality. Similar results in any case may follow neglect to dis- criminate between small, poorly developed tubers and those which are well developed and sound. Too often all the good sound tubers are sold or used for cooking w-hile the poor, discarded and in many cases diseased tubers are kept for planting. Where this practice is followed there is bound to be a falling off in productiveness. The evidence at present available goes to show that where suitaMe sorts are used and where suitable tuhers of these sorts ■are utilized for seeding purposes each year, the standard of a variety may be maintained indefinitely under all favorahle conditions of soil and climate. Since some varieties are not adapted to certain conditions it is quite possible that their power to resist disease may become gradually reduced. This would *See p. 73, Fourth Annual Report, Canadian Seed Growers' Association, for confirmatory evidence tby Mr. W. T. Macoun, C. E. Farm, Ottawa, Ontario. 11 seem to explain why certain varieties grown in comparison with others and under similar conditions for a number of years seem to be more susceptible to blight and other diseases than do neighboring sorts. Obviously, the first consideration is maintenance of vigor and control of disease and this im- plies very careful selection of seed tubers, careful cultivation, spraying and rotation of crops. The problem of potato improvement by the selection of favorable fluc- tuations or variations is intimately linked with that of "degeneration." That potatoes degenerate or "run out" naturally no matter where they may be grown, is an idea commonly held by the great mass of growers. Many believe that this is a natural phenomenon — something to be expected and something which cannot possibly be avoided. A new variety comes into circulation, remains in the foremost ranks for a few years or until it reaches a period of old age or "senility" and then gradually declines. Such is the generally accepted idea of the life of a potato sort. That certain varieties do appear to act in this peculiar manner cannot be denied. On the other hand, experience shows that other sorts which have been under cultivation a great many years do not appear to have lost in vigor or productive qualities during this long space of time. A good example is afforded in the Swedish sort known as "Dala" which is commonly grown in the Province of Delecarlia (Dalarne). This potato is said to have been introduced about 150 years ago, yet is one of the best sorts now grown in that Province. PRINCIPLES OF PLANT IMPROVEMENT. ' When single plants of the self-fertilizing class (wheat, oats, barlej^ peas, etc.) are propagated separately in small isolated cultures (so-called pedigree cultures) they breed relatively true from generation to generation providing, of course, they are not the product of a recent crossing but are constant (homozygous) in character. This fact, together with the discovery of the composite character of many of our old varieties has caused most specialists at breeding stations to adopt a system whereby the constituents of these old varieties may be isolated and tested in large numbers "separately." By a process of elimination, based on yielding tests and careful studies of each culture, both in the field and in the laboratory, the number is gradually re- duced until only the best remains. Further progress is then usually sought by combining the desirable characters of the best strains by means of "hybri- dization." System of Seed Selection for the Farmer. — While the above system is eminently suited to Experimental Stations where time and money are spec- ially allowed for such work, yet the old system of "mass-selection" may still be regarded as the most practicable one by which the average farmer may annually obtain good seed on his own farm. This system will be outlined in detail later. By means of this method of selection a degree of "purity" may be maintained in large seed cultures which is scarcely possible in any other way. This in itself is sufficient to justify the application of the system. If applid to cross-fertilizing crops such as corn, clover, and roots, this method is full of promise of great gains, as in this case it may actually produce a "cumulative" effect; if applied to varieties of self -fertilizing crops which have become mixed, either through the accidental introduction of foreign 12 sorts or through other causes, it provides a means of effecting improvements "by separating out the inferior strains and effecting an inclusion of the best." Since selection, be it "pedigree" selection or "mass" selection, aceord- ing to most modern authorities, does not "produce" anything new but simply separates out that which already exists, its value after a certain point has been reached would, in the case of self-fertilizing plants, appear negligible. In so far as being able to effect any "accumulation" of hereditary variations is concerned, this may be quite true. On the other hand, there are certain physiological factors or agencies such as soil, climate, food and moisture supply which play an exceedingly important part in the growing of crops and which merit the utmost attention. These factors cause what are known as "fluctuating" variations, that is variations caused by environment and which, according to most modern breeders, are not hereditary. The selection of favorable fluctuating variations may not lead therefore, to any improve- ment in the race as such but there is abundant evidence to show that the superiority of the seed from such variations — from plants which have at- tained the most perfect development and maturity — manifests itself in better crops for one generation at least. In other words, modifications produced by "nurture" may not be hereditary but may be "re-impressed" on each generation by providing the proper cultural conditions. The seed may be regarded as an unborn plant drawing its nourishment from the mother. If the mother is poorly nourished, the embryonic plant — the seed — is poorly developed. This is a simple case of malnutrition. Ex- perience goes to siiow that such seed always produces plants of inferior de- velopment. This principle is exemplified in the runt of the swine litter. Such an individual, as is well known, seldom recovers that wdiich has been withheld from it during the incubation or pre-natal period. Importance of Continued Mass-Selection. — While seed from inferior fluctuations — from poorly developed and immature plants — may often be quite effectively excluded by the severe screening and grading of the bulk sample, yet it is considered a better and safer practice to select desirable plants in the first place, in order that the said sample may contain as little poor seed as possible. This fact, together with the fact that purity in a variety may be most effectively maintained from year to year by the annual "inclusion" or selection of a sufficient quantity of typical heads, panicles or pods to sow a small plot the following year as a base of supply, renders the system of mass selection exceedingly useful and one which every farmer who grows his own seed, should include as a part of his regular system of farm management. Importance of high Cultural Conditions for Seed Growing.— In view of the importance of obtaining seed from plants which are perfectly developed and matured, the aim of the grower should be to provide such physical con- ditions in both the surface and subsoil of his land as will enable the plant to attain maximum development. This fact suggests at once the desirability of every farmer setting aside his best patch of land each year as a seed producing plot and that he allow the crop produced thereon to "mature perfectly before harvesting." Another 13 practice, and one which every farmer may follow to advantage, is to locate, or mark off, the best patch or patches in his fields before harvesting, and all'Ow these to stand until thoroughly mature. They may then be harvested and thrcvshed separately, the seed being kept apart for the following year's seeding. A still better practice, however, is that followed by members of the "Canadian Seed Growers' Association" and which is described in detail in the following pages of this publication. u PART II. THE CANADIAN SEED GROWERS' ASSOCIATION AND ITS WORK. Original and Chief Aim of the C. S. G. A.— This Association is an out- growth of what was known as "The Macdonakl Seed Grain Competition,'' a competition in seed growing which began in 1900 and which continued for three years, extending over the entire Dominion and including, in all, about 1,500 competitors. The object of this competition was to stimulate an interest in the production and selection of high class seed by providing visible demon- strations as to the practical advantages which may accrue from the use of such seed. At the close of the competition, the Macdonald Robertson Seed Growers' Association was organized with a view to promoting, through or- ganized effort, a continued interest in this question. The name of this As- sociation was changed in 1904 to "The Canadian Seed Growers' Associa- tion," which name it still holds. The Association seeks to attain its object by enlisting as members, farm- ers who desire to make a specialty of producing on their o^yn farms, high class seed of one or more kinds of crop under quality which in turn is mul- is created a base of supply of pure seed of high quality which in turn is mul- tiplied under the Association's inspection and control and made available for seeding purposes to the general farming public. This class of seed is known as "Registered Seed." Organization. — The officers of the Association consisi of a President, three Vice-Presidents, a Secretary-Treasurer, an Executive Council and a Board of Directors consisting of twenty members. The Directors are elected annually from the different Provinces in Canada so that the Association is really an interprovincial body rather than a Federal one as that term is us- ually understood. Membership. — The membership consists of Honorary and Active mem- bers. Any person in Canada of good repute, is eligible for membership as an active member providing he conforms to the by-laws and regulations of the Association. Before being elected an active member in full standing, the Association requires that each applicant make a hand-selection of seed in sufficient quan- tity to enable him to sow a Hand-selected Seed Plot of the required size, the following year. It also requires wherever practicable, that his work be in- spected and commended by an officer approved by the Association. * Fees. — No membership fee is at present required. Neither is there any financial obligation incurred by any member until he actually has seed inspected and sealed in sacks. At this time a small inspection fee is charged. (See page 42.) Applications for admittance should be addressed to the Secretary Canadian Seed Growers^ Association, Canadian Building, Ottaiva Canada. *In the case of regularly organized "Seed Centres" the term "applicant" refi-rs to the Centre and not to any individual member thereof. 15 The Work of the C. S. G. A. and its relation to that of the Federal and Provincial Governments. — The work of the Association may be said to be an extension of that Department of the Government service conducted by the Experimental Farms. Agricultural Colleges and by the Dominion Seed Branch. The Experimental Farms conduct work in original research with field crops, test different varities obtained from different parts of the world and endeavor to evolve, through a process of breeding and selection superior strains for use on Canadian farms. They are not, however, in a position to control the multiplication and distribution of these sorts in a large way and to best advantage among individual farmers. This important work can best be done by a separate and independent organization for obvious reasons. Were seeds of superior strains distributed direct to growers without the exercise of any control over its succeeding progeny, the greater part would quickly lose its' identity and eventually be either ruined by lack of proper care in maintaining purity or completely lost. The conservation of all that is good and useful in improved stocks, together with their judicious multi- plication and distribution on an extensive scale and under efficient control is therefore one of the main functions of the Association. In view of the fact that each Province has a considerable financial interest at stake, and that it has special facilities for advancing and supervising this sort of work, the Directors have agreed that each Province, or its District Representatives, should assume responsibility for the initiation and general supervision of the work of growing Registered Seed, including the inspection of fields, within its borders. The records, as in the case of Live Stock on the other hand, are kept at Ottawa, which place has been chosen as the headquarters of this interpro- vincial organization. By this arrangement the necessity of each Province having to keep its own registry office is obviated, while at the same time the whole organization is given a national status. This is particularly desirable wherever there is interprovincial or international trade. While the field inspection is made by Provincial officers, the final inspec- tion of seed in sacks offered for sale is made by officers appointed at, and un- der direct supervision of the head office. The above arrangement provides an excellent scheme for co-operation between each of the Provinces and the Association as a whole, the Province being responsible for securing growers, and for the inspection of their growing crops, the Association assuming responsibility for keeping the records, for issuing certificates of Registration, for printing and distributing throughout all parts of Canada a Seed Catalogue, and lastly, for making the final inspec- tion of seed in sacks and sealing the latter if satisfactory. Funds. — Although this important public service is executed by a volun- tary organization outside of the Government,yet on account of the value of such work to the country as a wnole, together with the service which it is possible for such an organization to render in preventing the dissipation of improved stocks produced by experts, financial assistance is granted annually by the Dominion Government. 1() GENERAL SYSTEM OF SEED GROWING ADOPTED BY THE ASSOCIATION Choice of Variety. The new beginner whose ultimate aim is to produce Registered Seed year after year must consider, first of all, what variety is likely to be most profitable to grow in his locality. (See p. 5 re various points to consider in making this choice.) The name of the variety chosen must then be ap- proved by the committee appointed by the Association to determine what varieties shall be accepted for registration.* This Committee consists of the Superintendents of Experimental Stations, the Cerealist and Horticulturist at the Central Experimental Farm and at each of the Agricultural Colleges in Canada, the District Representatives of the Dominion Seed Branch and the Secretary of the Association, who acts as chairman. This arrangement implies that all new varieties must be thoroughly tested and must prove their super- iority to the satisfaction of the Committee before being accepted for registra- tion in the records of the Association. Securing the Foundation Stock. Having decided upon the variety the grower should next procure a quan- " jniini'irmitfi'fitifii i'- • iv ■[riirTi|'.'"T-'V"--"^'-^" "S: Photo by C. E. Saunders. Plots of grain at the Experimeutal P'arm, Ottawa. Test plots iu background ; Mnltii)]ying plots in foreground. From this place the Association obtains ruuch of its best foundation stock. *See Eight Annual Report (1911-12) of the C.S.G.A., page 54 re action taken by the Association to limit the number of varieties accepted for registration. 17 tity of "Elite Stock Seed" or First Generation ''Registered Seed" of this variety as foundation stock. (See p. 45 for definition of terms). This may sometimes be had directly from an Experimental Station and sometimes from another member of the Association. This seed in most cases should be treated so as to prevent the development of disease, should be sown by itself on spec- ially clean land and every precaution should be taken to keep it pure. (See p. 32 regarding methods of maintainiing purity in seed.) In the case of cereal grains the new beginner will usually have to con- tent himself with "First Generation Registered Seed" rather than with "Elite Stock Seed" as foundation stock, since the latter class of seed is pro- duced in relatively small quantities and consequently is not often available. This class of seed, however, is quite suitable for the above purpose. In the case of corn and grass seed on the other hand, "Elite Stock Seed" should always be insisted on. Status of the First Year's Crop. The general crop produced by a new beginner from the first year's sow- ing cannot be recognized as Registered seed owing to a technicality. (See p. 38 for further amplification.) It can, however, be used for the second year's seeding, and should the grower have qualified for membership the first year by making a hand selection of heads or tubers, as the case may be, for a hand-selected seed plot and have been admitted as a member of the Associa- tion, the seed produced from this second year's crop may be accepted for registration provided, of course, that the quality, purity and vitality are up to standard. Production of Elite Stock Seed. Having secured "Registered Seed" as foundation stock, the grower should plan to operate so that the succeeding crops may also be entitled to registration. Since no seed can be accepted for registration which is more than three generations descended from Elite Stock seed, and since first gener- ation seed is most in demand, a supply of Elite Stock seed should be produced each year. Elite Stock Seed is therefore the basis or starting point of Registered Seed. From it Registered Seed is produced. It represents the highest degree of perfection in seed and consequently special care is required in its produc- tion. It is defined (See p. 45 under "Definition of Terms" for fuller definition) as seed which is pure as to variety and which is suitable for multiplication and distribution. It is produced usually in limited quantities. When produced by a member of the Association, the area bearing it is known as a "Hand Selected Seed Plot." The seed which is used to sow this plot is obtained from heads, ears, pods, or tubers, as the case may be, which are selected by hand from a mature crop. This selection in the case of the new beginner, is made from his foundation field ; in the case of the regular member, the selec- tion should usually be made from a regular Hand-Selected seed plot. The details of the methods of producing Elite Stock Seed differ some- what according to the class of plant worked with. Thus four main classes 18 of agricultural plants, as regards methods of reproduction, may be distin- guished as follows : — (a) Those in which the seed is normally produced by the "self-fertiliza- tion" of the flower; e.g. wheat, oats, barley, peas and beans. (b) Those in which "natural cross-fertilization" between individual plants is the common rule ; e.g. corn, rye, and most grasses. (c) Those in which "cross-fertilization between different individuals is obligatory"; e.g. Red Clover. (c) Those which are reproduced in a "vegetative way"; e.g. the potato. It will be necessary to deal with the process of producing Elite Stock in the case of each class of plant separately. PROCESS OF PRODUCING "ELITE. STOCK SEED" IN THE CASE OF SELF-FERTILIZING PLANTS, SUCH AS WHEAT, OATS, BARLEY AND PEAS. As already pointed out (See p. 11 under "Principles of Plant Improve- ment,") plants such as wheat, oats and barley, which are self -fertilized, ordinarily breed true and seldom show any hereditary variations by means of which an improvement over the old race may be effected. Thus a strain (pure line) of oats, or wheat or barley developed from a single plant is found to remain practically constant in type from generation to generation providing natural crossing, which even in these crops may occasionally take place, does not occur. Modifications in the character of a plant due to such external factors as a superabundance of food, air, light or moisture of course are quite common but as it is not generally believed that these are reproduced, they need not be considered seriously in connection with any system aiming to effect permanent improvements. Selecting Heads. — Since all applicants for membership in the Association are strongly urged to start with a pure line or strain rather than with a compo- site variety, that is a variety which contains two or more strains, and since such pure lines are now usually available, the process of producing Elite Stock Seed shall apply chiefly to pure strains. This process, owing to the relative stability of these strains, is quite a simple one, as it resolves itself chiefly into the maintaining of purity. This object may often be attained quite effectively by simply 'rogueing' the field, that is removing by hand all heads of plants which do not appear to belong to the variety under consideration. Since, however, one can never be absolutely sure that he has removed all impurities, the Association requires each member to make 'positive' selections that is to select typical heads in sufficient quantity (30 to 35 pounds) to give 19 him enough clean and absolutely pure seed to sow at least a quarter (^) acre Hand-selected seed plot the following year. The general product of this seed plot may be ranked as "Elite Stock Seed." "Hand-selected Seed Plot" of wheat in foreground producing Elite Stock Seed; Multiplying Field in background sown with Elite Stock Seed and producing first generation "Eegistered Seed." The selection of heads may be made either from the standing plants or from the sheaf. While s SRfdNn Yk«r 2.'i on 30 Lb8. of Tyimcal heads SELECTED nv HAND II Bi'l Soodl'l ^^ {Pro//? S/^a/'^ ^^1 \3aU,Ji(k ^H i^^n^lL' rn^'j«£^^^^^^^l ^^^H Carfu Ohio H ^/^-^T? yjloiAvtain ^^| ^ U ^H ^^H zJoFd Com ^^^^1 ^^^H^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^B KiL- "^'^^^^^^^1 ^^^^k£ate uuntan 1 B "W^W^reqor- B Jla<.Jtna5j<.(()n(U ^^B ^^^^■tr^ -'V"~:^^M g- : J ^^^H Carman ^^^B ^arCu Jvosa ^H MJr/j^CoU^r' ^^^^M Photo by F. T. Shult. Twelve of the most productive varieties of potatoes in Canada. (NIote presence of common Scab on some of these tubers. This is something to be guarded against.) 28 The actual number of hills selected will depend largely upon the system it is intended to follow in their propagation. Thus these hills may eitiier be (a) bulked togethei- and used to plant the Hand-8elected-Seed-Plot the following year, or (b) they may be store-d separately and planted separately on the Seed Plot in accordance with the hill-to-the-row system. For those who iiave the time, best results usually may be expected from the hill-to-the- row system at least for the tirst two or three years. ]\I'.'mbers are allowed to follow which ever system they prefer. Method of Planting Selected Hills. — (a) Bulking Method : By this nK-tii'od the .sclertc(l lulls arc simply Imlked together and used to plant the Hand-Selected Seed Plot the following year in the ordinary way. A sufficient mimhcr of hills to make up aLout five (5) bushels should be selected. This amount after allowing for disease, should be sufficient to plant a seed plot of one-quarter acre. (b) IliU-to-thr-How Method. — By this method the selected hills are ke separate over winter and are planted separately the following Spring, each selected hill planting a short row. In order that the productive qualities of each selected hill may be compared by means of the performance of its prog- eny, it is desirable that each of these rows have the same number of hills and be planted with the same total weight of Potatoes, The rows may be planted parallel with eadi other or they may run in a continuous row, being placed end to end and separated by stakes. (See illus- tration). Seed Plot of Potatoes Planted bythe Hill-io-the-row method. By this method not nearly so many selected hills can be handled as is possible by the bulking method, since it is seldom found practicable to handle more than from 25 to 50 selected hills. By planting each selected hill in a 29 separate row, the grower is enabled to select the required number of superior hills for the following year's seed plot from the hest rows. Herein lies the one advantage over the Bulking method. A Seed Plot composed of 25 rows, each planted with tubers from a single hill would occupy approximately oue-thirty-fifth acres. After selecting 25 or 30 hills for the following year's seed plot there should remain ordinarily from 7 to 10 bushels of "Elite Stock Seed." This should be sufficient to plant a "'Multiplying Field" of about half an acre, where 2 oz. pieces are used and planted i" apart in drills which are 30'' apart. Where a larger Multiplying Field is desired it is only necessary to increase the size of the seed plot. DIAGRAM SHOWING VARIATION IN YIELD OF INDIVIDUAL ROWS (8 HILLS PER Row OF POTATOES GROWN ON SPECIAL SEED PLOT IN 1913. IRISH COBBLER. (Grown near Duval, Sask., by W. E. Turner.) ROWS. MWfl/ff TOTAL DE TUBERCULES PAH RANC 4- l/OMBI>£ DE BUTTES SElECTIONN£U NOET. — Grown on black loam that had been broken 5 years ; had never been manured, but 1 quart of hen manure was sprinkled around each plant just as they were coming through the surface. i 80 THE PRODUCTION OF ELITE STOCK SEED OF CLOVER AND ALFALFA. In Red Clover, eixjss-fertilization is obligatory, that is, a flower of a given individual cannot be fertilized by its own pollen. The result of this is that every red clover seed is the result of cross-fertilization, thus rendering it im- possible to produce absolutely pure strains. Experience has shown, how- ever, that it is possible to attain a relatively high degree of purity and con- stancy in clover and also actually to improve upon a variety by weeding out the more delicate and loss valuable strains, retaining only those fitted to sur- vive. While Nature herself will often weed out many of the weaklings, especially when the winters are severe, yet man can do much to assist her by systematically eliminating apparently inferior or weak plants, keeping only those which are strongest and most vigorous and which possess the most desirable type. In Alfalfa, cross-fertilization is not obligatory, but may rather be said to take place frequently. By reason of this fact, its improvement and pro- pagati'Oii may be etfected along essentially the same lines as those followed in the case of grasses. (See page 31.) Actual improvement work with Red Clover and Alfalfa, especially when the production of hardier varieties is the chief consideration, is a work which may be carried on to advantage by individual farmers as well as by experts at Experimental Stations. Indeed, it is desirable that as many farmers as possible engage in this work, in order that "home-acclimatized" strains be available in every locality. When breeding Clover and Alfalfa, the chief aim should be : — (a) Greater hardiness, i.e. ability to withstand the conditions of winter and early spring. (b) Greater yield of hay. (c) Greater seed production. The successful growing of high-class clover and alfalfa seed, that is, seed of a type known to be hardy and productive, and which is also of high quality and free from weeds, demands, as in other crops, a reliable and con- stant source of seed supply (Elite Stock Seed). Such a supply may be pro- duced by the farmer himself. To this end the following course of procedure is recommended : — 1. Obtain a few pounds of seed (3 or 4 lbs. Avill be sufficient in most cases) as Foundation Stock from the most reliable source. This may often be procured in the neighborhood from some grower who has been growing his own seed for a number of years. In the case of Alfalfa, it may often be necessary to obtain a supply from some outside source. In this case, varieties such as "Grimm's" or "Ontario Variegated" should be taken into consid- eration. At present (1915) the former variety seems especially promising.* *For the possibilities of breeding a hardy strain of Alfalfa from the common varieties see discussion by by Dr. M. O. Malte in 10th Annual Report of the O.S.G.A., page 45. 31 2. This seed should be sown on clean, well prepared land, either in the spring or later and with or without a nurse crop. The most satisfactory method, especially in the case of Alfalfa, is to sow without a nurse crop be- tween June 15 and July 15, and in drills, the drills being from 24'' to 30" apart. B3' this method of seeding Aveeds can be kept in check more easily while the seed is likely to "set" more abundantly. 3. The seed plot should be located as far as is convenient and practica- ble from all other fields producing the same kind, in order to ensure a meas- ure of protection against crossing with inferior forms. 4. In the spring all weak and inferior looking plants should be pulled up and discarded, while during the growing season the plot should be very carefully 'rogued'. 5. When the plants are well matured, harvesting should take place. Whatever machine is used for this work, care should be taken to avoid waste of seed. (See p. 36 for suitable maehiinery for harvesting.) Where the foregoing directions are followed carefully, for two or three years the seed produced, if recommended for such recognition by an expert, may be accepted for registration as "Elite Stock Seed". The method of propagating and handling the product of this seed (Registered Seed) is given in detail later. (See page 35.) THE PRODUCTION OF "ELITE STOCK SEED" OF GRASSES SUCH AS TIMOTHY, ORCHARD GRASS, Etc. In almost all our grasses the flowers open before fertilization takes place with the result that the bulk of the seed produced is the outcome of cross-ferti- lization, although a grass plant, unlike Red Clover can be fertilized by its own pollen. Seed produced by cross-fertilization is likely to produce plants which are variable in character and in industrial worth. In producing Elite Stock Seed of grasses, the first aim therefore must be to isolate a pure and constant strain possessed of superior jdelding power and quality for feeding purposes. This is a work which requires much skill and patience as well as time, and must be left chiefly to specialists. For this reason the details of the method of producing Elite Stock Seed of grasses is not dealt with here.* The propagation of Elite Stock Seed for Registration, however, may be carried on by the farmer quite easily. This phase of the work is described on page 35. NOTE : — Persons interested in the production of seed for registration of crops not specified in this booklet e. g. Field Roots and Garden Vegetables, should communicate with the Secretary and obtain specific directions regard- ing method of procedure. *For method of Grass-breeding see publication "Plant Breeding in Scandinavia," by L. H. Newman, Ottawa, pages 155-167. Price $1.00 at office of C.S.G.A. 32 THE MULTIPLICATION OF "ELITE STOCK SEED" OF CEREALS,.. POTATOES AND CORN. Cultural Conditions for Seed Growing. — In the multiplication of "Elite Stock Seed" great care siiould be exercised in maintaining purity and in insuring a product of superior quality. This requires soil which is fertile, in good physical condition, properly drained, uniform in quality and free from Aveed seeds. In the case of potatoes these should not be grown on land which bore a diseased crop recently. These conditions are imperative where the grower intends to offer seed for sale. Uniformity of moistnre content in the soil throughout the field is especially essential to the production of seed of uniform quality and maturity. Where the surface of the field is uneven, the depressions are almost sure to be m-oister and thus to cause later ripen- ing. This is especially true in the absence of proper draining. These defects can often be remedied to a considerable extent by levelling. Such work may appear more or less impracticable, but experience has shown it to pay for it- self quickly, not only in better quality of crop but in increased yields.* The use of a suitable system of crop rotation is a matter of great impor- tance in seed growing. Indeed, the successful seed grower must, of necessity, be one who is skilled in the cultivation of his soil and in arranging his crops in proper sequence. In Eastern Canada, the best quality of seed grain, grass and clover seed is usually obtained after a hoed crop, which crop leaves the soil Avell packed at a depth of four or five inches, yet loose on the surface. Where the soil is light and loose, it is very important that it be thoroughly packed before seeding. In the case of very light soils, it has been found good practice to roll twice before seeding and once after seeding, finishing off after the roller with a light harrow.* In growing seed grain after summer fallow, as is commonly done in Western Canada, investigations to date seem to indicate that the principle of packing the soil firmly before seeding is quite as applicable as in other cases. The extent to which quality as well as quantity of seed is dependent upon soil conditions indicates that seed improvement and soil improvement mnst go hand in hand. The aim of the seed grower should therefore be to gradually "improve his land." Members of this Association are strongly urged to study with great care the question of soil cultivation and crop rota- tion. Their success as seed growers will depend quite as much, if indeed not more, upon a knowledge of the attributes of "Good Soil" as it will npon those of "Good Seed."t Maintaining Purity. — The problem of maintaining purity in the prog- eny of "p]lite Stock Seed" is an important and more or less arduous one. No matter how careful the grower may be, it is only through eternal vigilance f Members are referred especially to the following articles by Mr. J. H. Grisdale. Director of Kxepri- tuentiil Farms, Ottawa, in the Second and Eighth Annual Reports of the Seed Growers' Association respec- tively : — 1. "Some Common Principles which Underlie Improvement in Animals and Plants." 2. "Cultural Conditions for Seed Growing." Those engaged in Potato growing are referred particularly to Bull. 49 (1910), by W. T. Macoun, Hor- ticulturist, C.K. Farm, on "The Potato and its Culture." *See address entitled, "Cultural Conditions for Seed Growing" by J. H. Grisdale, Eighth Annual R<» port, C.S.G. Association. 33 that weed growth and the introduction of foreign varieties may be kept in check. An important precaution which all members are urged to observe is not to grow more than one variety of wheat or oats, or barley on the same farm. Growers producing oats on a large scale for seeding purposes are also advised not to grow barley on the same farm, and vice versa, providing their system of farming will allow this. With the system of threshing and handling seed which prevails in most parts of Canada, it is very difficult to maintain adequate purity where the above precautions are not taken. Where the itinerant threshing machine is used by members, they ar& urged to see that it is properly cleaned before entering their premises. A practice which the Association strongly recommends as a safeguard against the inclusion of impurities is to "rogue" their fields, that is remove all aberrant individuals by hand, before harvesting. A good plan, in the case of cereals, is to have someone preceed the binder and pluck out all foreign varieties which may be found within the width of the swath. This plan obviates the necessity of tramping the crop and is at the same time- the easiest and most effective. To do this work thoroughly, it requires about two per- sons, each of whom may be held responsible for two sides of the field. In the case of potatoes, all tubers produced by plants which deviate froi* the tuljieal variety characteristics, should be removed. Allow the Cultures to mature Thoroughly. — The importance of allow- ing all seed cultures to mature thoroughly before harvesting has already been dealt with so need only be mentioned here. Should a part of the field be ripe while another part is still green, the latter should be allowed to stand until thoroughly matured, the former being harvested first. The Cleaning and Grading of Seed. — The proper cleaning and grad- ing of seed in order to produce a clean uniform sample of the best developed seed is one of the most important phases of the seed business. On page 8 of this publication, special reference is made to the double advantage of grad- ing and screening oats so as to reduce the proportion of secondary and poorly developed primary kernels in the sample. It is but little less advantageous to effect similarly close separations in the case of all seed. The smaller and more poorly developed seed in the case of cereals, can always be used for feeding purposes with immensely greater profit than for seeding. Such a statement has already been sufficiently amplified in the preceding pages of this circular. In order to separate the "Seed" from the "Feed," a good fanning mill is indispensible. Without such a mill no farmer can hope to become a suc- cessful seed-grain grower, unless he is able to have his seed cleaned by another who is better equipped to do the work. This mill has been justly regarded as the most important implement on the farm, yet it is astounding how lightly many farmers regard its use. Indeed, comparativelj^ few farmers seem to have a clear idea as to 'how' it should be used, simply passing their seed through the mill once or twice in a perfunctory sort of way, trusting Provi- dence to make up for any delinquencies on their part. If rightly used, this machine will pay for itself on any farm in one year. Let us illustrate this : Properly graded seed oats can very easily give 5 bushels per acre more than 34 seed which is not graded. The quality of the crop produced is also likely to be considerably better. On an area of ten acres this Avould mean an in- crease of 50 bushels, which, at the vcr} moderate price of ijo cents per bushel, means a gain of $27.50, the average price of a good mill. There are many good fanning mills now on the market and agencies are to be found in most large towns and even villages. We submit herewith a list of some of these : — Fanning Mill Firms. — "The Chatham Mill", manufactured by the Manson Campbell Company, Chatham, Ont. "The Clipper Mill," manufactured by A. T. Ferrell & Co., Saginaw, W. S. Mich., U.S.A. "The Perfection Mill," manufactured by The Templin Manufacturing Company, Fergus, Ont. "The Perfection Grain and Seed Separator," manufactured by The Wes- tern Manufacturing Co., Ltd., Regina, Sask. "The Tara Mill," manufactured by W. A. Gerolamy, Tara, Ont. "The Monarch," manufactured by the Mississippi Iron Works, Almonte, Ont. "The Winner Fanning Mill", manufactured by Tudhope Anderson Co., Lt'd., Orillia, Ont. Most fanning mill firms publish excellent illustrated booklets explain- ing clearly how the different screens should be arranged to remove- different impurities as well as all light, shrunken and poorly developed seed from the sample. These booklets are sent free of charge to anyone w^lio applies for them and all growers are strongly urged to secure copies and to study them with care. Since the size of seed differs in different varieties and in different soils and seasons, it is impossible to lay down any definite rules as to wdiat screens should always be used. The grower must do a little experimenting each year on his own account in order to determine exactly how he may arrange his mill so as to effect the best separation. A half-hour devoted to testing differ- ent arrangements and different sieves "will quickly be repaid in the quality of work done. Where the grower has trouble in removing certain impurities such as barley in oats, he may send a small ounce sample to the firm whose mill he is using and have them advise him as to ho-\v to overcome the difficulty. The fact that each screen is plainly -numbered enables the firm to advise as to which to use. The above service is done free of charge. In the case of potatoes no tubers w^eighing less than three ounces or more than six should be used for planting. 35 MULTIPLICATION OF ELITE STOCK SEED OF GRASSES, CLOVERS AND ALFAFA. In the multiplication of Elite Stock Seed of Grasses, Clovers, and Alfalfa, the chief concern consists in maintaining the quality and purity. The im- portance of this should under no circumstances be underestimated. The details of the system by which Elite Stock Seed of these plants may be propagated may be summarized briefly as follows : 1. Source of Seed. — Obtain seed of a quality and purity entitling it to the rank of "Elite Stock Seed". In the case of Clover and Alfalfa the farmer may produce this himself as already indicated (see p. 30), but in the case of the grasses he may have to procure his Elite Stock Seed from a specialist. Grasses and Alfalfa being perennials, that is, plants which continue to grow from the same root year after year, a plot sown with Elite Stock Seed may continue to produce first generation registered seed for propagation indefinitely. This renders in unnecessary to procure a fresh supply of Elite Stock Seed every year in the case of these plants. In the case of most grasses a satisfactory stand may be expected to continue for at least three or four years. In Alfalfa the stand may last even longer. Red Clover and Alsike on the other hand being essentially biennials, produce only one crop of seed from the same root. In the case of these plants it is practically necessary to obtain for propagation a supply of Elite Stock Seed each year, when the production of Registered Seed is the aim in view. 2. Size of Field. — A sufficient quantity of Elite Stock Seed should be secured to sow at least one-quarter of an acre of land, but a larger area might often be operated to the grower's advantage. 3. Isolation of Fiela. — In the case of grasses, the field in which Elite Stock Seed is sown should be at least 300 yards from any other field or area producing unimproved plants of the same species. In the case of Clovers and Alfalfa the multiplication field should be at least one-quarter of a mile away from any other area maturing unimproved plants of clover or alfalfa res- pectively. The exact distance required for the safe isolation of clover and alfalfa is difficult to determine, owing to the extent to which local conditions affect the situation. 4. Seeding. — The seed "should be sown on specially clean and M^ell pre- pared land. Seeding may take place either in the spring or later and with or without a nurse crop as conditions demand. The method which is. coming to be more generally recommended where seed production is the chief consid- eration is to sow in drills and without a nurse crop. The drills should be from 24'' to 30" apart. For seeding in drills the Plant Junior hand drill gives good satisfaction. By sowing in this way the land can be cultivated occas- ionally and the crop kept free from other grasses and noxious weeds. Ex- perience also goes to show that a better stand may be expected by this method as may also a heavier seed production. Much less seed (approximately one third) is also required by this method than is necessary when sowing broad- cast. 5. Care During Growing Season. — During the growing season, es- pecially as the plants approach maturity, the field should be gone over care- fully and all foreign plants, the seed of which might endanger the purity of 36 the commercial article, sliould be removed. Care should also be taken to pre- vent all plants of the same species found growing along the margins of the field or in fence corners from developing heads and thus endangering the purity of the improved stocks by cross-fertilization. 6. Harvesting, Curing and Threshing.— The methods of harvesting, cur- ing and threshing in the case of grasses vary. Briefly speaking the ordinary grain binder is recommended for harvesting both grasses and clovers. In the case of the latter no twine is used. The spring is also slackened so as to allow the clover a free course to the ground. Clover so delivered does not shell readily, is well out of reach of the horses and machine and will be light, so that the wind and sun can easily dry and cure it. It is then drawn directly from the windrow to the barn. If a clover huller is not available clover may be threshed with the ordinary separator although this should be provided with a few attachments to prevent waste of seed and to encourage closer thresliing. For detailed information the reader is referred to the publication en- titled "Fodder and Pasture Plants" (Clarke and Malte) available at the Pub- lications Branch Department of Agriculture, Ottawa. Price, 50 cents. Seed Centres. As indicated in the Constitution of the Association (See clause 10) any group of persons, on becoming regularly organized, may be admitted to mem- bership as a group and be given the same standing as an individual. Tliis ar- rangement is designed to facilitate the multiplication of seed on a larger scale in that it permits any group so organized to choose one of its num- ber to produce all the Elite Stock Seed required by the group. By this ar- rangement the other members of the group are simply propagators their Elite Stock seed or its immediate progeny being obtained regularly from the chosen grower. All seed produced by a group or "Centre" as above \% required to be handled under the name of the Centre whose secretary must affix his signature to all registration tags attached to sacks of Registered seed sold.* REGISTRATION OF SEED. Certificates of Registration. — Seed of varieties which have been ap- proved by the special committee appointed for the purpose and which has been grown and handled by members in accordance with the rules of the Association, may be registered in the records of the Association, and may receive special recognition in the form of Certificates of Registration. (See Section 31 of By-Laws and Regulations). Two classes of certificates are is- sued. The first is for "Elite Stock Seed" and the second for the succeed- ing progeny of such seed up to and including the third generation descended therefrom. All seed belonging to the latter category is designated "Regis- tered Seed." (See Definition of Terms" p. -l."j The certificate for "Elite Stock Seed" certifies that the said seed has been produced in accordance with *Any group of persons desiring to organize themselves into a "Seed Centre" are advised to communi- cate with the Secretary of the Association for further information. 37 ^ O I 6j "« "^ ^ ^ J V3 ^ ;: « ,- S S ^3 S ^ -^ O \) o -s; ss vi o ^i **^ a O s C3 1 « H <^ t^ c^ ^ ^ !< 1^ <♦ >» V ^ « t3 :§ to ^ C3 -s; Po y W Oi ^3 a GO a: -C5 •^ ^ i^j -Cl to ^ "a Co B I 1 i ■X3 Xi fH 38 the regulations of the Association and indicates in each case the origin of the seed. The certificate for "Registered Seed" likewise certifies that the seed has been grown according to regulations and that it has been recorded as "Registered Seed" a certain number of generations descended from "Elite Stock Se€d." Status of Seed Produced by Applicants for Membership. — While records are kept by the Association of all seed intended for registration, and while full credit is given in the records for all work done by each applicant, yet no Certificates of Registration are issued for any seed grown by an applicant during his year of probation, i.e. the first year. If the applicant qualifies for membership in the Association and is elected a member at the end of his first year's work, any seed of any kind of crop produced or selected by him dur- ing the succeeding years, and which is otherwise eligible, will then be entitled to receive full recognition through Certificates of Registration. Standards of Quality and Purity for Registered Seed adopted by the Association. — -To be eligible for membership the applicant must have pro- duced a quantity of Elite Stock Seed and must have shown that he takes the work seriously. No Registration Tags (Special tags attached to sacks of Registered seed as explained below) will be issued for any seed unless it be : — (a) Pure as to variety and true to type. (b) Free from seeds of other cultivated plants. (c) Free from seeds of weeds coming within the meaning of the term "noxious weeds" as applied to the Seed Control Act and w^hich are considered by the Executive to be of a dangerous character. (See below for list of "noxious weeds.") (d) Free from, or containing not more than a total of one seed of other weeds of minor importance, such as wild buckwheat, lamb's quarters, foxtail, etc., per pound of cereals and other seeds of like size and not more than one per ounce of smaller seeds such as flax, grasses and clovers. (e) Well matured, clean, sound, (smooth in the case of potatoes) plump, of good size and color and free from disease. (f) Up to the percentage standard of vitality recognized for good seed of the kind under the Seed Control Act. Explanation of Standards referred to in Clause (e). "Well matured" seed means seed which does not contain more than 2% by number of immature seeds ; "Clean" seed means seed which is free from dirt and inert matter; "Sound" seed in the case of cereals, means seed which is free from mustiness, frost injury, etc., and which does not contan more than 2% of 39 broken, sprouted or otherwise damaged kernels. In the case of potatoes, "sound seed" means tubers which are practically free from all kinds of in- ternal or external discoloration and other blemishes : "Plump" seed means seed which is well developed and which does not contain more than 2% by number of shrunken kernels ; "Smooth" seed applies exclusively to potatoes, and implies that the tub- ers are free or practically free from protubrances (second growth) or other malformations. The "size" of seed applies more particularly to potatoes. To be suitable for certification tubers must not weigh less than three ounces or more than six ounces. Seed of "good color" means seed which is naturally bright and glossy and which has not been noticeably discolored by the weather or otherwise. Under certain circumstances seed which is slightly discolored but of high vitality may be allowed to pass. By seed which is "free from disease" is meant seed which on field and laboratory inspection has been found, in the case of cereal grains, to be free from smut or other diseases which may be considered of a serious nature. In potatoes absolute freedom from the diseases specified under the "Destructive Insect and Pest Act" is insisted, on, while in the case of minor diseases (Com- mon Scab, Silver Scurf, etc.) not more than 5% of the total number of tubers may show traces of disease. It is alsc urged in the case of potatoes, that the tubers be stored prior to sale, free from contamination.* List of Weeds Considered "Noxious" Under Seed Control Act. The weeds coming within the meaning of the term "Noxious Weeds" as applied to the Seed Control Act are : "Wild Oats, Common Darnel, Docks, Purple Cockle, White Cockle, Night-flowering Catchfly, Bladder Campion, Cow Cockle, Stinkweed, False Flax, Ball Mustard, Wild Radish, Wild Mus- tard, and other Wild Brassica species. Hare's Ear Mustard, Tumbling Mus- tard, Wild Carrot, Field Bindweed, Dodder in Alfalfa, Blue Bur or Stick- seed, Blue Weed, Ribgrass, Ox-eye Daisy, Canada Thistle, Chicory, Sow Thistles. *The Standards of quality and purity required 'or the registration of potatoes are based on the defini- tion of "Seed Potatoes" as suggested by the Dominion Botanist. This definition reads as follows: "Seed Potatoes may be defined as potatoes consisting of whole sound tubers, true to name and type and of one named variety only; containing no tubers less than 3 oz. or more than 6 oz. in weight: free from (specified) diseases, produced in accordance with standard rules on individual premises free from such diseases ; harvest- ed and stored until sale free from any contamination; containing not more than 5% of common scab and other minor diseases not impairing their quality for seed purposes, and which are to be sold only in sealed contain- ers, plainly labelled "Seed Potatoes." 10 Percentage Germination Standards. The pcrci'iitage germination standards i'or good seed, recognized under the Seed Control Act, are: — Percentage Germination Cereals grains. Flax, Indian Corn and Millet 95 Peas, Beans and Vetches 90 Red Clover, Alfalfa. Alsike. White and other Clovers 95 Tiraothv, Cocksfoot and Meadow Fescue 90 All other Grasses 80 Mangel and Beet (160 Sprouts from 100 Balls) 90 Turnip. Swedes, Rape, Radish, Cabbage and Cauliflower 90 Spinach and Carrot 80 Celery, Parsnip and Parsley 65 Cucumber, Melon, Squash and other cucurbits 90 Onion. Leek and Tomato 90 Lettuce 95 The Inspection and Sale of Registered Seed. In order to insure that a given lot of seed complies fully with the above standards it is absolutely necessary that the grooving crop be inspected. Where seed is offered for sale it is also necessary tliat the cleaned seed be examined and the purity, quality and general condition verified. A copy of the form on which the inspector reports the results of his field examination in the case of cereal grains is appended. (See page 41.) In the ease of po- tatoes a different form is used. In this case careful observations must be made regarding the colour of the flowers and the general characteristics of the plants. At digging time the uniformity in the shape, size and general varietal Inspector examining a Multiplying Field of Oats. Photoby L.H.N. 41 Canadian Seed Growers' Association REPORT OF FIELD INSPECTION (SPECIAL FORM FOR WHEAT, OAT5, BARLEY, PEAS, BEANS AND FLAX) Name 0/ Member Address {P.O.)-- - -- - Pro. Kind of Grain Variety FIELD SCORES 1 Hand- Possible Selected Multiplying Fields* Score ; 1 Seed Plot No. I No. II No. Ill General appearance considering : — Score ; Awarded , Score Awarded Score Awarded Score Awar'd 5 (2) Vigor and uniformity of growth 10 (3) Type of plant considering strength of straw, etc Freedom from weeds 5 25 10 (Names of weeds found in each field : — Freedom from smut, rust, blight and insects (Names of diseases or insects found in each field : — Freedom from other varieties and other kinds of grain. (Names of other kinds and varieties of grain found in each field : — 20 i 20 Apparent yield and quality of grain con- sidering : — (1) Proportion of well filled heads or pods of plump grain of good quality (2) State and uniformity of maturity i 5 Total 1 ! 100 Size of each of the above areas (acres) Amount of seed likely to be offered for sale from each area SuitabiUty of seed for registration Year in which the seed sown, in the case of each field, originated as the general product of a hand selected Seed Plot.... *Where more than three (3) Fields are devoted to the multiplicatioa of a giren strain a new sheet aboold be used, and the additional fields numbered consecutively from and including No. IV. General Condition of farm Remarks Signed Date of Inspection : 19 Inspector. Score Card used by Inspector in connection with field inspection of cereal grains. 42 characteristics of the tubers should be noted. If an inspector cannot be pre- sent at digging time the grower should note these matters carefully and report upon them. By these means the trueness to variety is ascertained. In the case of potatoes the Uvo important considerations are pureness of variety and freedom from disease. There are certain potato diseases which manifest themselves in the growing plants but which do not show on the tubers, e.g. Leaf Roll, Mosaic disease. Curly Dwarf, etc. This fact em- phasizes the necessity of careful field inspection by an expert. The final inspection of seed intended for registration and sale is made in the winter and early spring except in the case of autumn sown grains. Be- fore making this inspection the grower is required to send a representative sample of about one quart in the case of cereals t/o headquarters, for exami- nation. If this sample is found to be up to standard in all particulars the inspector will retain a part of it with which to compare the main bulk held in sacks on the owner's premises. If the seed offered agrees with the sample, the former is accepted and the sacks, barrels or crates as the case may be are closed and a metallic seal attached over a printed tag. This tag bears the name of the variety, the certificate number, the grower's signature and the Inspector's signature. By means of a coupon attached to these tags the grower is able to submit a "statement of transfer" of all seed sold. By this means the Association knows where all seed goes and can follow it up and ascertain how it has performed. This information is valuable not only in affording a check on the quality of the seed which each grower is selling, but in providing data regarding the value of registered seed generally. Complaints and Disputes. — Should any dispute or dissatisfaction arise concerning the disposition of seed by members the course of procedure to be taken by the persons concerned shall be in accord with that stipulated in the Seed Control Act, Section 19. All other provisions of this Act which concern the disposition of seed shall apply to members of this Association. Inspection Fees. 1. Where seed is inspected and sealed in sacks or other containers, the following fees are charged : — (a) For each bushel up to and including 200 bushels, 2 cents per bushel. (b) For all quantities exceeding 200 bushels, 1 cent per bushel, or if mem- ber prefers, $4.00 per day for each da}- the inspector is on the premises. 2. When more than one visit to a given point is necessary to complete the sealing, an additional charge of $2.00 for such visit and for each succeed- ing visit is made. Advertising- of Registered Seed. All seed which is grown according to the rules and which has passed the necessary inspection of the Association to date is, if offered for sale, listed in a seed catalogue which is issued b}' the Association and distributed widely 43 REGISTERED SEED Kind : Variety : Quantity in sack CERTIFICATE NO. lbs. GROWER'S CERTIFICATE. WT^t I hereby certify that the seed contained in thissack was produced by us in the year 191 in accordance with the rules of The Canadian Seed Growers' Association, that it is g:enerations descended from Elite Stock Seed and that it conforms to the Standards of purity and percentage vitality fixed by the Association for Registered Seed. Signature of grower Remarks Signature of Inspector confirming the above information and sealing sack tear oflE here (over) (NOTE: — Fill in following information before shipping tear off at above line and forward to Secretary C.S.G. Association STATEMENT OF TRANSFER FOR REGISTERED SEED Certificate No. Quantity in sack ;.. ... lbs. Second owner (Dame) Address (P.O.) Prov. 65 C» <-►• O. "O 3" ■t' (i n » D, n> n a •a c o - ^ c 3 a "- = 1 3* 3 ^ a. v> Vi n> c/- o m c D. CL c n Cs > ~ v> o o a n '^ 3 3- = ft 3 O C (£ 3 = T C5 ^ 3 1"? 3- D. C o ft c^ r 3" -I n ? CO « 5. o s: n' _. » V. ^ c ? ft a ® o ft • I/) o 3 f^ Q. " c a o 3 O 3 I 2. c n 3" 6! -i. i T) ■♦> (Ti r+ ^ 3* t« ffi n a ^ ft ^ ?3 ?r c ■a 2 O H rr H O c o > rn FRONT BACK Front and Back views of Registration Tags which are attached by the Asso- ciation to packages or sacks of Registered Seed before these leave the premises of the different growers. 44 throughout Canada. This catalogue contains, among other things, a list of the names and addresses of all growers -who have seed to sell, the price they are asking and the official germination test of each lot. By this arrangement, prospective purchasers are able to locate those having good seed to sell to the mutual benefit of both. Each grower who has any considerable quantity of seed to sell is also advised to advertise it himself. Special price lists, ad's in agricultural and other papers, correspondence with dealers, etc., are all useful for the above purpose. Excellent advertising facilities are also provided at the Annual Seed Exhibitions which are held in each district or province in Caiuida. and which last from two days to one week. Growers who are able to attend these exhibitions themselves are often able to place many orders from the sample they are showing. With the control which the Association now has over Registered Seed it is reasonably safe to buy from sample in the above manner. Advantag-es of Affiliation With the Association. While the grower may apply the above system of seed growing on his farm quite independent of the Association, yet there are certain advantages associated with an affiliation with this organization w^hich are worthy of con- sideration. Briefly speaking, the Ass-ociation is helpful in the following mat- ters : — 1. It enables the member to keep in touch with his fellow worker, and thus to profit by the successes and failures of the latter. 2. Through its publications it keeps the members in touch with the best thought of the times in all matters pertaining to crop raising. 3. It fixes approximate standards of registration for registered seed. 4. It makes a careful study of the results obtained by the different mem*- bers as w^ell as by professional investigators, and offers direction and guidance accordingly. 5. It keeps the records of all work done along these lines by members, and issues certificates of registration. 6. It assists members in the disposal of their surplus stock of Registered seed. 7. It gives publicity to the work of worthy growers who have succeeded in producing stock of real merit, and which might otherwise remain unrecog- nized. 8. It provides or obtains prizes for competition with seed produced according to regulations by its members. 45 9. It gives the grower and his seed public recognition and affords a valuable means of advertisement. 10. It enables the member to ask a price commensurate -wUli the quality of the goods offered. 11. It facilitatCsS the wider distribution of high-class seed. DEFINITIONS OF TERMS USED BY THE CANADIAN SEED GROW- ERS' ASSOCIATION.* 1. By the term "Hand-Selected Seed" is meant cleaned seed obtained from heads, panicles, pods, ears, or, in the case of potatoes, tubers which are uniform in character and which have been selected by hand from plants which are sound, vigorous and normally developed. 2. By the term "Hand-Selected Seed Plot" is meant a piece of land bear- ing a crop produced "directly" from hand-selected seed. 3. By the term "Elite Stock Seed" is meant:— (a) A pure stock of seed produced on a hand-selected seed plot and which is considered by the executive to be worthy of distribution, or (b) A pure stock of seed -originating from a single plant, the progeny of which has been proven in plot or field tests (and by other means of examina- tion) to the satisfaction of the executive and is considered worthy of distri- bution. This seed must have been propagated exclusively by the originator or under his supervision. 4. By the term "Multiplying Field" is meant a piece of land devote-d to the multiplication of Elite Stock Seed or the progeny thereof up to and in- cluding the third generation. 5. By the term "Registered Seed" is meant the progeny of Elite Stock Seed, up to and including the third generation descended therefrom when such progeny has been grown and handled in accordance with the rules of the Association and has been duly accepted for registration. 6. By the term "Improved Seed" is meant seed originating from hand- selected seed but which is not yet entitled to public recognition as "Registered Seed", or, because of some deficiencv. is not being handled as "Registered Seed." *The terms here used were adopted by the Association ;it its Eighth Annual Meeting, all other terms being revoked. 46 THE CANADIAN SEED GROWERS' ASSOCIATION. CONSTITUTION AND BY-LAWS. Constitution. 1. The name of this Association shall be the Canadian Seed Growers' Association ; it may have a common seal and alter the same at pleasure ; may hold real and personal estate and receive grants and devices of the same ; may appoint general and executive officers and define their duties ; may receive, reject or suspend members ; may stablish branch associations and may, from time to time, make rules, regulations and by-laws for the government of the Association and the management of its affairs. 2, The members of this Association may form branch associations for the provinces and districts for the purpose of assisting in carrying the objects of this Association into effect, provided the organization of such branch as- sociations has been authorized by this Association, and their constitution and by-laws have been submitted to and approved by the Board of Directors of this Association, Objects. 3. The object of this Association is to advance the interest of seed growers and other farmers by : — (a) Making regulations respecting the growing, selecting and preserving of seed of various kinds of farm crops for the guidance of its members ; (b) Causing records to be kept of the history of seeds produced by mem- bers. (c) Fixing standards for seeds that may be eligible for registration. (d) Publishing information as to standards. (e) Issuing certificates of registration to members by which hand-select- ed seed or the product thereof may be distinguished from other seed. (f) Such other means as may be expedient from time to time. Ofl&cers. 4. The general officers of the Association shall consist of a president, a secretary-treasurer, and nine directors appointed by the Provincial Depart- ments of Agriculture (one by each) and ten other Directors elected by the Association. 5. The president and ten directors shall be elected each year at the an- nual meeting of the Association. 47 6. Three vice-presidents shall be elected by and from the completed Board of Directors. 7. The Secretary and Treasurer shall be appointed by the Board of Direc- tors. 8. The officers and directors of the Association shall form the Board of Directors of the Association. 9. The Executive Council of the Association shall consist of the Presi- dent, the Secretary and Treasurer and five directors to be elected by the Board of Directors. Membership. 10. The Association may admit as members any persons or regularly organized body of persons resident in Canada who may choose to make seed growling a special branch of their farming operations, and who conform to the by-laws and regulations of the Association. 11. The Association maj^ admit as honorary members persons who may be directly or indirectly interested in agriculture in Canada but who may not be producers of seed, and such honorary members shall be eligible to hold office or otherwise enjoy all the privileges provided for members of the Association. 12. Applicants for membership in this Association may be admitted by vote at any meeting of the Association or of the Executive Council. Any applicant for membership shall become a member of this Association when duly elected by vote of the officers and members or by vote of the Executive Council. 48 BY-LAWS AND REGULATIONS. Notice of Meeting's. 18. The Executive Council sli - ■.*'•'■ ^- ■ - - ^,•-.^- FORM 310S : ■ '■' ;■ '' Upi