The Question Box. 417 



How does Mr. Terry prepare his ground for wheat, after potatoes? 



Answer. — We plow deeply, then use the cutaway harrow to fine 

 the ground. It cuts up and quite thoroughly fines the vines from 

 an early crop; for later varieties we rake up the vines draw off and 

 spread them on our clover sod to be plowed under the next spring. 



To Mr. Terry. — What soil is best adapted to phosphates? 



Answer. — Phosphoric acid — which, I suppose is what is meant 

 by the question — has best effect on a heavy, clay soil. On sandy 

 soils it does not seem to prove of much value. 



Which is cheaper for drains, tiles or stones, if one has the stones and 

 wants to dispose of them? 



Mr. Ward. — I have had some experience with stone drains, and 

 I am of opinion that, all things considered, the tiles are the 

 cheaper in the end. I know of tile drains laid when I was a boy, 

 that are now in good condition. while some stone drains laid later, 

 are all stopped up and worthless. 



Which is best for underdraining, tile or timber, and if timber is used, 

 how should it be constructed to obtain the best results? 



Mr. Van Alstyne. — If there is plenty of water, hemlock may be 

 used, as it will last a long time, but will dry-rot quickly if in dry 

 soil. Tiles, however, are always good, and, as a rule, all things 

 considered, will last longer than will a timber or board drain. 

 Round tiles are best. 



AYould seeding in July do as well as in May? 



Mr. Van Dreser. — It would depend on the season. As a rule, 

 bats take out too much moisture, especially from clover. July 

 seeding in the corn has given quite good results, so has that sownj 

 in August. 



'o' 



What soil is best adapted for growing cabbage? 



Mr. Van Wagenen. — A strong, easily worked loam. 



How best to drive away the house rat? 



Dr. Smead. — At one time my premises suddenly became over 

 run with rats. Upon inquiry I learned that a neighbor who had 



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