624 THE PHYSIOLOGY OF SOWING SEEDS. 
method; but the increase of roots to an almost 
unlimited extent, and that too, near the surface, 
where the action is always most favourable to the 
cultivator, because it draws most upon the con- 
tributions from the air, and thence leaves those 
within the soil less necessary. 
In fine, then, whatever we plant, or whatever 
we sow, for produce on our farms, let us draw 
upon the resources of the air to the fullest 
extent, both within the soil, and out of it; 
remembering, that our manures, our ploughings, 
harrowings, and all kinds of labour which we 
may employ, are dependent upon its action for 
answering their purposes. All life is maintained 
by it, and all vigour in every department of 
animation. It is constantly consuming one thing 
to form out of its elements another. And we have 
only to know how to employ it, to compass fully 
the ends it was intended to answer for us; not 
merely in supporting the flame of life within us, 
but in furnishing that flame constantly with sup- 
plies of the very best fuel, that life may ever burn 
brightly, and be in itself, to us, a blessing and an 
enjoyment. Aerate, aerate, aerate your seeds 
that they may germinate well. Aerate, aerate, 
aerate your plants that they may grow well. 
