302 GRASSES AND HOW TO GROW THEM. 



the base. The loaves are numerous, flat, and from 

 3 to inches long. The panicle is open and resem- 

 bles a narrow pyramid in form. It is quite open and 

 from 3 to 8 inches long. 



It is best adapted to moist conditions. It grows 

 well amid the shade and protection furnished by other 

 grasses, produces a sweet and fairly nutritious hay, 

 and is greatly relished both as hay or as pasture by 

 horses, cattle or sheep. In Britain, it is much pre- 

 ferred to June grass, although it is considerably later 

 in its habit of growth. It multiplies only by means 

 of the seed, hence in a few years it dies out, even in 

 permanent pastures. 



Distribution. — This grass is found in Europe, "North 

 Africa and Siberia. It has been introduced into Amer- 

 ica. It is said that it has been longer cultivated than 

 any other poa and the statement is probably true. It 

 is still in high favor in England and also on the Con- 

 tinent. 



Rough stalked meadow grass prefers a moist and 

 temperate climate. It has not been very extensively 

 o-rown in this country, but where tried under suitable 

 conditions has proved itself to be a useful gi-ass. On 

 low lands, it should do well from Lake Superior to the 

 Gulf of Mexico. The little attention that has been 

 given to its introduction in the United States is owing 

 in part at least to the difficulty of obtaining good seed 

 and to the high price of the same. 



Soils. — Eough stalked meadow gTass, like redtop, is 

 adapted to soils low and moist. This does not mean that 

 it will not give returns on productive upland or prai- 



