RYEGRASS 71 



When there is not sufficient moisture to ensure an 

 immediate germination, it is good practice to go 

 over the soil with a light roller. This compacting 

 of the surface will encourage the upward move- 

 ment of water, and have a tendency to ensure 

 quick germination and growth. 



Yield and value of rye- grass 



Rye -grass produces abundant leaves. It grows 

 two to three feet high. It may be harvested in the 

 eastern states by the middle of May or first of 

 June. While the yield is usually not so great as 

 that of orchard -grass, it grows much more rapidly, 

 and when suitably manured will make two or 

 three cuttings for soiling purposes in the same 

 season. When an abundance of plant -food is 

 available, very heavy yields are obtained, as high 

 as sixteen to eighteen tons of green forage per acre 

 having been recorded as the entire yield from three 

 cuttings. 



When in the best condition for soiling, or when 

 just heading, rye -grass contains about the same 

 amount of dry matter as orchard -grass, although 

 it is richer in nitrogenous substance and poorer in 

 crude fiber. It thus makes a more palatable and 

 richer food than orchard -grass. It does not stand 

 the northern winters well, and its best use in this 

 country, except in the South, has been as an 



