No. 112.] 865 



so prevalent, meadows and pastures were equally exhausted and 

 deteriorated. A uniform alternation of crops is now observed 

 among the skilful farmers of the county, upon all lands, with oc- 

 casional exceptions, where a favorable position, or the native 

 qualities of the earth do not require the practice. The mode in 

 this system of rotation adopted in the county, is assimilated to 

 that generally pursued. When a decline in the quantity or quali- 

 ty of the grass on a portion of meadow land, or a tightness of 

 the sward, or the presence of moss occurs, the ground is broken 

 up, usually in the autumn. Upon this ley, a hoed crop is planted 

 for one or two years, depending upon the tenacity of the turf. 

 A crop of small grain succeeds, for one or two seasons, as circum- 

 stances require. With this tillage, the re-seeding of the land is 

 effected. Although the tine grasses are generally preferred for 

 the purposes of hay, the clover culture is associated with this 

 system, as an important element in the improvement and reno- 

 vation of the soil. 



A rotation of crops is esteemed of the highest importance^ 

 when applied to light, sandy, and gravelly soils.* Many farmers 

 familiar with the culture of these soils, assert that Ihey may be 

 maintained in a constant progression in fertility, by a close rota- 

 tion, connected with a high clover culture. This tillage, when 

 applied to the cultivation of pastures, is attended with the most 

 beneficial results. It is well understood, that pastures, particu- 

 larly those appropriated to neat cattle, become infested with 

 bushes, acrid grasses, and other worthless vegetation. This^fact 

 is eminently exhibited in light sandy ranges. Experience de- 

 monstrates, that a rotation of crops is as efficient and useful when 

 adapted to these pastures, as to meadow lands. Valuable crops 

 are secured, the noxious herbage is extirpated, and not unfre- 

 quently, the amount of the succeeding pa?turage is quadrupled 

 in the process. 



MANURES. 



Manures are created and preserved with great economy and 

 care. Upon many farms', the barn yartl and pig-sty, under im- 

 proved managementj yiehl twice tlie quantity of manure, which 



•Letters of A. P. Mack, and J. G. Livingston. 

 [Aff. Tr. '53.] Ju 3 



