FARMERS' INSTITUTES. 99 



Association, to take such steps as seem to them wise to perpetuate State 

 and local conferences similar to this one, in which the leading idea shall 

 be to advocate the hearty co-operation of all individuals and organizations 

 that are genuinely interested in rural progress. 



Whereas, The attendance at Michigan Farmers' Institutes this year 

 has been the largest for some years, if not in their history; and 



Whereas, This is ample evidence of their value in agricultural educa- 

 tion; 



Resolved J That we express anew our approval of institute work and 

 pledge it our continued support, and recommend its extension through 

 reading and lecture courses. 



Resolved, That the thanks of this convention be especially extended to 

 Prof. H. C. Adams of the University, and Prof. C. D. Smith of the Agri- 

 cultural College for the interesting and profitable program which has 

 been provided for this joint meeting; and that this convention further 

 extend their thanks to the Agricultural College for the cordial welcome 

 given and excellent entertainment provided. 



J. H. Mcdonald, 



J. W. HUTCHINS, 

 K. L. BUTTERFIELD, 



Committee. 



Chairman J. D. Towar spoke of Secretary Wilson and Dr. Kedzie as 

 the parents of the beet sugar industry, and asked the audience to rise as 

 a sign of invitation to these gentlemen to take the platform. This 

 announcement was received with much applause and the suggestion was 

 carried out. 



SUGAR BEETS. 

 Preparation of the Soil and Seeding. 



BY W. H. GILBERT_, LANSING. 



First, we must have a good rich soil. It costs but little more to properly 

 till an acre that will give twenty tons of beets than one that will give 

 •five tons. 



Fitting Sod^ Ground. — First, plow as deep as you can, from eight to 

 ten inches. Thoroughly roll for the purpose of conserving moisture. Disc 

 it lengthwise of the furrow, then diagonally, and go through it enough 

 times so that the soil is thoroughly pulverized. Follow with a harrow 

 until the soil is in as good condition as it would be for a flower bed. If 

 the ground is clay, follow with the float and then with the seeder. Drill 

 so that the seed will germinate uniformly; otherwise there will be 

 spaces where the seeds do not germinate and you will have either a miss 

 or a late beet. In planting do not put the seed in deeper than % inch, or 

 better % inch. 



