lo April, 1909.] Maize Gnncing for MUk Production. 



207 



hydrates, especially the fibrous material, increases. As this latter sub- 

 stance is niostly indigestible, fodder crops deteriorate towards maturity. 

 Young grass is much richer in protein and contains a smaller propor- 

 tion of indigestible fibre than old grass, and is therefore more nourishing. 

 The same comparison may be made between young lucerne and that which 

 is made into hay. It follows that fodder crops should be cut for hav 

 before they reach maturity, and before the\' enter into the ripening stage ; 

 experimental work and general experience have full}- demonstrated that 

 these crops should be cut immediately full bloom is reached. Lucerne 

 is an exception to this, because it very readily becomes fibrous, and should 

 be cut in the earlv stages of blossoming to obtain best results. Witli 



•i,*:^;^' 



6. (12) PRIDE OF THE NORTH, 4 FT. 6 IN. ; (13I W 111 1 E ilUkSE TOOTH, 8 FEET. 



reference to root crops, it has been found that while fodder crops de- 

 teriorate and become fibrous towards maturity, because of the con-\-ersion 

 of soluble forms of carbo-hydrates into the insoluble and indigestible 

 fibre, root crops, such as mangolds and potatoes, improve owing to the 

 carbo-hydrates produced in this case being sugar and starch, both of 

 which are of considerable feeding value. 



The present consideration of farmers should be the preservation of 

 their lands with relation to productiveness and the character of material' 

 produced. If there has been degeneracy of seed in quality or pro- 

 lificacy, appliances for restoration must be resorted to and a more careful 

 system of farming followed, a system based upon scientific investigation 

 and gathered experience. If plant growth is not supplied with its natural 



