48 AMERICAN AGRICULTURE. 



Different specimens vary greatly as to quality. The 

 average analysis of Dr. lire's examinations is : 



Organic matter containing nitrogen, including urate 

 of ammonia, and capable of affording from 8 to 17 per 

 cent, of ammonia by slow change in the soil, 50 



Water 11. Phosphate of lime 25, 36 



Ammonia, phosphate of magnesia, phosphate of am- 

 monia and oxalate of ammonia, containing from 4 to 9 

 per cent, of ammonia, 13 



Silicious matter from the crops of birds, .1 



100 



The above analysis shows a strongly concentrated manure, 

 and it is certain it is much above the medium, as the sand 

 alone is sometimes 15 or 20 per cent. It is applied to roots, 

 grain and other cultivated crops, and as a top dressing for 

 grass; but it has thus far proved of most value to the former. 

 Before using it as a top dressing, it is mixed with twice its 

 bulk of fine earth, ashes, plaster or charcoal dust. The 

 proper quantity is from 200 to 400 Ihs. per acre, sown 

 broadcast and harrowed in, or supplied in two dressings; the 

 first soon after the plants appear, but not in contact with 

 them ; the last, 10 or 14 days after, and immediately before 

 moist or wet weather. The crops on poor soils are much 

 improved, while those on rich lands, have in some cases, 

 been injured by it. For hot houses and many minor pur- 

 poses it is a desirable manure, and in solution it is very 

 convenient as an occasional dressing. It is thus prepared 

 by dissolving 4 Ibs. in 12 gallons of water, 24 hours before 

 using. On account of its volatile character, it should be 

 closely covered till wanted. 



SOOT, 



Like ashes, has its origin exclusively from vegetables, 

 but may with them, be properly treated under the present 

 head. It holds ammonia, charcoal and other rich ingredi- 

 ents, and is used at the rate of 50 to 300 bushels per acre. 

 It produces its greatest effects in moist weather, and in dry 

 seasons, it has somHimes proved positively injurious. It 

 may be sown broadcast over the field and harrowed in, or 

 mixed with such other manures as are intended for immedi- 

 ate use. The ammonia has a great tendency to escape, 

 which can only be prevented, by adequate absorbents, as 



