GRASSES OF IOWA. 



383 



albuminoids we find also vary, the largest amount of protein 

 being in the last sample, cut in July, and is almost the same as 

 the amount present in the first sample, taken in May, while the 

 amount of albuminoids is largest in the last sample. The per- 

 centage of crude fiber increases as the plant matures, as we 

 would expect. The amount of nitrogen free extract varies and 

 does not change as the plant matures. The ash tends to 

 decrease, however, as the plant matures. 



Little Blue Stem {Andropogon scoparius, Michx.) is also com- 

 mon throughout the state. It grows in bunches and is a common 

 grass on the prairies and rocky hillsides in the west, especially 

 common in poorer soils. It is valuable for hay, yielding well, 

 though less than big blue joint. It appears late and when not 



Fig. 178. Little blue stem 



on prairies 'everywhere In Iowa. 

 S. Dept. Agrl,) 



(Andropogon scoparius ) A good grass common 

 (F. Lamson-Scribner, Div. Agrost. U. 



