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Friday, April 26, 2024

Good News for East Carolina Potato Farmers, April 26, 1924

Potato Prospect Still Looks Good. . . Satisfactory Stand Seen with Indications that North Carolina Will Beat Virginia to Market by Two Weeks

With a good stand of potatoes on all sides the crop condition on this territory is looked upon as very satisfactory up to this time. The most favorable sign lies in the fact that the main crop of Virginia potatoes with which it is impossible for North Carolina to compete will be two weeks later than last year while that in this section will be only one week delayed according to Howard Smith, manager of the Carolina Potato Exchange.

On account of the nearness of Virginia to the markets, that state becomes a dangerous rival to Eastern North Carolina whenever the season’s conflict. It is excepted among the operators that when the Virginia season starts our must fall behind.

Last year Virginia potatoes came in 10 days behind those of this territory. According to the forecasts for this season, they will be from 15 to 18 days later than North Carolina. This means a great deal in marketing early potatoes and indicates that the prices will be good if other conditions remain good, says Mr. Smith.

“The stand this year is above the average. In fact it is the best in five years,” says Mr. Smith. “Judging from the looks of the crop there will be an unusually good yield. the Canadian seed are showing their value in better seed and more thrifty plants already. North Carolina mountain grown seed have produced good plants too. They are every bit as good as those produced from Maine seed.”

Mr. Smith says that he has been advised that the Florida crop has suffered from blight and rain. One operator who had bought heavily of barrels is offering a half million for sale on account of the partial failure of the crop at Palatka. In South Carolina there is a much heavier acreage and a fair stand, he says. This does not conflict with us however, as South Carolina fears us just as we fear Virginia.

From the Elizabeth City Daily Advance, April 26, 1924

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