112 



PRODUCTIVE FARMING 



very quickly, otherwise the new growth would be much 

 injured. If, at any time, a yellow appearance or any spots 

 on the leaves should be seen, the crop should be cut. The 

 last cutting should be made in September so as to give time 

 for a new growth to start before winter sets in. This will 

 help to prevent winter injury. 



Jb'iG. 56. — A. Hay-caps are often used in curing the first cuttings of alfalfa 

 m humid climates. (Experiment Station, N. J.) 

 B. Loading alfalfa by hand power. 



Curing Alfalfa Hay. — It is sometimes quite difficult to 

 cure the earliest cutting because of the rains late in May and 

 early in June. Alfalfa is very much injured if wet by rain 

 after it is cut. We must keep it dry during the curing pro- 

 cess (Fig. 56, A). The sap in the stems does not do so much 

 injury; so it may be put in the barn with more of its own 



