128 AGRICULTURAL TEXT-BOOK. 



These directions only apply to the Northern and Atlantic States. In 

 the rich Western Prairies and river bottoms, corn culture is a much more 

 simple process. 



298. It is a custom with some to plant corn five to eight feet 

 apart in rows, and in the fall to plow between them, and sow 

 wheat. As a system of rotation, this mode appears to possess 

 peculiar advantages. For particulars, see Mr. BartletCs letter in 

 the Farmer s Companion and Horticultural Gazette, Novem 

 ber, 1853. Pumpkins are generally planted in each alternate 

 hill or row. In Virginia, peas are sown between the rows after 

 the last hoeing, to be afterwards eaten off by hogs. In a 

 similar manner clover is sown in New Jersey. 



299. It is also customary to steep corn before planting to (a,) 

 prevent birds and insects from injuring it; (b,) to act as a ma 

 nure. For the first purpose soak the corn a few hours in warm 

 water, and then mix it with tar thrown into water sufficiently 

 hot to melt it. Each grain will be thinly coated with tar. Dry 

 with plaster or ashes. For the second, use a weak solution of 

 saltpetre, or salammoniac, (Muriate of ammonia,) 1 Ib. to 4j 

 bushels, or 1 oz. to a quart of grain mixed in warm water, 

 and poured over, to remain upon the corn for 1 8 hours before 

 planting. The corn sprouts with a rich green color, and grows 

 rapidly, but whether it finally increases the crop is still dispu 

 ted. 



300. To grow corn broadcast for fodder, rich clean land is 

 required. It is prepared with one plowing, is slightly harrowed, 

 and the corn sown at the rate of 3 to 4 bushels to the acre. It 

 is then harrowed in and rolled. It is sometimes planted in 

 drills, and worked with the cultivator. 



301. The best time for harvesting, or cutting the corn is 

 when the grain is glazed, but not yet perfectly hard, and the 

 stalks still partially green. 



302. Previous to this process, and at the time when the ears 



