46 BOARD OF AGRICULTURE. [Jan., 



3. In the fertilized plots we have expressed the yield from the 

 seed used, under natural conditions and under conditions as^nod- 

 ij&ed by cultivation; in the duplicate plots we have also these same 

 conditions, the amount of fertilizer varying. 



4. In the experimenter we have a means for recording the vari- 

 ations noted in each plot, and for timing the occurrence of the 

 varied phases of germination, growth, and development; of meas- 

 uring the rainfall and its penetration, the soil and air temperatures, 

 the rapidity and extent of growth, etc., etc , etc. 



5. In the results, carefully tabulated for comparison, we have 

 the data at hand for determining the value of the conclusions to 

 be derived, and whether such conclusions are reliable and worthy 

 of adoption. Results in harmony with the conclusions already 

 attained by the investigator may be accepted ; those results which 

 are in conflict shall suggest further investigations. 



The principal factors which the farmer uses are : 1 , The seed. 

 2. The manuring. 3. The methods of planting. 4. The cultiva- 

 tion. Such a trial as is within his province must furnish values 

 for each of these factors. Our sample experiment should olfer 

 hopes of determining the value of the seed, of fertilizer, and of 

 culture in several varied relations; as to methods of planting, this 

 should be determined beforehand by a carefully formed experience, 

 as its introduction into an experimental series would render the 

 attempt very cumbersome. 



There is much for an agricultural experiment station to accom- 

 plish, both in the way of investigation, and in that of trials in the 

 barn and field. In the laboratory and plant-house are required the 

 qualities of a carefully exact, trained, and accomplished man of 

 science; in the field, the same qualities, together with a knowledge 

 of the practical requirements and workings of the farm. The 

 true agricultural experiment station must be the bond which con- 

 nects science with the farm. Investigation must keep pace with 

 the highest aspiration of science, and its prophecies and data must 

 be practically brought within the comprehension of the farmer; 

 for such a station is in a sense industrial in its conception and in 

 its. existence. 



Let us approach the subject on the farmer's side, and ask our- 

 selves what as farmers we want to know ? A few of the answers, 

 space does not admit more, are as below: 



