On a nexu Corn Planter, 101 



2d mo, f February J \^th, 1823. 



** I HAVE added a roller behind, to press the soil on the 

 seed, as I find that by so doing;, the corn vej^etates more 

 vigorously, and is not so liable to be destroyed by the 

 common cut worm. This insect being a feeble disjger, 

 and unable to penetrate near the plant, crawls to places 

 where the soil is loose, and there making a bed,* there 

 are ten chances to one of its finding the plant again, and 

 if so fortunate, it cuts off the plant above the surface, 

 which does not prevent a second growth. Perhaps it may 

 be thought that the machine cuts too much of the seed 

 corn ; but this defect will cease as soon as the sharp edges 

 of the plate wear off by use. The quantity of corn thus 

 lost, is moreover of trifling value. The machine is made 

 to plant 2:J inches deep. It may be of advantage to arm 

 the runner with a thin iron sole, to prevent the corn from 

 being deposited at a greater depth ; for the depth will be 

 in proportion to the substance worn off from the runners. 

 If there should be much loose sod, or any rubbish on the 

 surface of the ground, it is probable the two levelling 

 pins will drag it and uncover some of the seeds ; if they 

 do so, they must be driven up. Rough ground, also, 

 requires the pins to be shallower than ground in fine tilth. 

 If necessary, the roller may be shod with iron to increase 

 its power in pressing the soil on the seed. I now pre- 

 sent the society with the drill of full size. L C." 



[See plate 1, fig. 1.1 



U 



