28 PERMANENT AND TEMPORARY PASTURES 



of any one kind of grass to all soils and districts. Indeed, the 

 whole question is one of experience, and those who possess 

 the largest knowledge, obtained from the widest sources, will 

 concur in the opinion that each individual case must be con- 

 sidered independently and on its own merits. From the begin- 

 ning there should be a clear understanding of the condition and 

 capabilities of the soil. The subsoil, too, must be taken into 

 account, for sooner or later its influence will tell decisively 

 upon the existence of certain gi'asses. Then the purpose ot 

 the crop must not be overlooked. Whether it is chiefly for 

 hay, or entirely for grazing, will prove an important considera- 

 tion in determining the sorts to be sown. Even the kind of 

 cattle the land is intended to cany is worth more than a passing 

 thought. INIilch cows, fatting stock, sheep and horses, or a 

 combination of these animals, can be provided for if proper 

 care be taken in the selection of grasses and clovers. 



In succeeding chapters the various plants, seeds of which 

 are generally sown for permanent pastures and alternate 

 husbandry, are described, with their relative value, fitness for 

 certain purposes, and such other particulars as indicate the 

 sorts and proportions to be used on the different soils and 

 under the conditions usually prevaihng in this country. In so 

 complex a subject it is not easy to make the selection in any 

 case. But I am anxious, as far as may lie in my power, to 

 prevent a repetition of the costly blunders which have too 

 often been made in this branch of British agi-iculture. With 

 this object in view six typical prescriptions of Grasses, Clovers, 

 &c. for various soils are given on the following page. 



