258 MASSACHUSETTS AGRICULTURE. 



soils, we should soon have a practical solution of the problem, 

 whether grain can be profitably raised in this county. 



The many failures attending the cultivation of wheat, have 

 led to the supposition that it cannot be profitably raised in this 

 part of the State ; yet we have good evidence from many who 

 have tried the experiment in different parts of the county, that 

 from twenty to thirty-five bushels have been raised per acre. 

 These results, exceeding the average crop in the best wheat 

 growing States, are sufficient to induce our farmers to continue 

 their experiments ; and we hope that some definite results will 

 yet be obtained, by which we may calculate with certainty upon 

 a crop of wheat, as of other grains. 



The statements on rye show what may be expected from this 

 grain, when liberally treated. The usual method of sowing our 

 poorest soils without manure, will not lead us to expect any 

 very great returns ; but, with liberal treatment, as good returns 

 may be expected as from any other crop. We believe it to be 

 the true economy of every farmer to raise all the grain necessary 

 for consumption upon his farm. If this course does not bring 

 money into the pocket, it certainly prevents a good deal from 

 going out ; and the farmer will have the satisfaction of having 

 his bread made of the products of his own farm. 



Many farmers are convinced, that corn and rye can be raised 

 at a profit in Norfolk county, though all the manure be bought, 

 and the labor hired. A gentleman of good judgment and great 

 experience in farming, but who has hitherto been rather scepti- 

 cal about raising 100 bushels to the acre, tells us that he thinks 

 corn has been a slandered crop ; that he is becoming convinced 

 of its value ; that although he had been sadly disappointed this 

 year in his corn not coming up, he should continue to plant 

 largely, satisfied as he is that it can be raised at a profit. 



L. Clapp, Chairman. 



Statement of E. and J. Sias. 



The field of corn entered for a premium was measured and 

 contained one acre. The committee measured and weighed the 

 produce of one square rod. The land, which had been in grass 

 for several years, was ploughed May 5th, with a common jjlough. 



