The importance of saving stock seed should not be overlooked by the seed grower; upon him rests the responsibility of purity and perfection of the variety. For this purpose, a few plants should be set apart, but given no better care than is required for the general crop. As soon as the first fruits are an inch in diameter, cut them away ; the first fruits set are rarely perfect in form. The next setting will be on the branches, and if these develop satisfactorily, do not allow any others to grow, but keep the flowers cut as they appear until the fruits begin to ripen. After that the plants may be allowed to fruit, but not for seed purposes. The first that is allowed to ripen will have received all the strength until maturity and will be sufficient for stock seed for a future crop. It is always economy to keep an abundant supply on hand ; it is perfectly good, if kept dry, for four years, but a small saving annually is a wise precaution.

In saving seed for stock, never save from a plant that is not vigorous and fruitful, or if the fruit in any way should be other than absolutely true to the type. In some seasons, for instance, either from extreme heat and drought, or from too much moisture accompanied with cold, the plants will not have that vigor requisite for a perfect development of seed. In such it is far better not to save stock seed, but rely upon previous savings.

For a general seed crop such selection cannot be practiced, but under no circumstances should a plant that shows any weakness or disease be allowed to remain.