dc 



94 



Bulletin 280. 



prohibits its destruction by plowing, but when this can be done it is 

 the safest method of control. It does not spread rapidly, but if left 

 to itself often covers half the pasture in the course of time. From the 

 general condition of the land it would appear that ferns thrive best in 

 an acid soil. If the land is plowed to destroy this weed it would be wise 

 to add a dressing of lime. 



Mr. Thompson of Delhi says that ferns may be destroyed by mow- 

 This is dwne twice a year, in June and August. It is a tedious 



mg 



Fig. 162. — Old pasture land. Daisies and brush are too numerous. The 

 brush must be removed before the pasture will give maximum returns. 



operation but the only successful method yet devised aside from plow- 

 ing. Mowing should be done early in order to prevent the spores 

 maturing. 



Mr. John Wilson of Delhi has had success in ridding his pasture 

 of ferns. The soil is light and stony. The grass had disappeared and 

 its place was occupied by fern brakes. The land was plowed and buck- 

 wheat sown the first year. This was followed by oats for two years. 



