146 



Agricultural Section 



[PT ii 



Although it gives its greatest yields on good loams and clays it is 

 one of the best plants for moderately poor and dry soils. Pro- 

 viding the soil is sufficiently deep to allow its roots to descend it 

 can withstand long spells of drought. 



When sown in the spring Cock's-foot developes fairly rapidly, 

 usually giving a small or moderate yield in the first season, and 

 attaining its full development by the second or third year. 



Fig. 164. "Seeds" of Nipplewort 

 (Lapsana communis, L. ). x 6. 



Fig. 165. " Seeds " of the Creeping 

 Thistle (Cnicus arvensis). x 6. 



When growing alone (unless sown very thickly) it forms large 

 coarse tufts which do not cover the surface evenly, and for this 

 reason it should always be grown with other species which mix 

 well with it. It grows fairly early in the season and produces a 

 large amount of both "top" and "bottom" growth. 



Its rapid development, early and late growth, and large produce, 

 combined with its drought resisting power, make it one of the 

 most valuable of grasses for either permanent pasture or meadow. 

 It is also very suitable for leys of two or more years' duration, and 

 for alternate husbandry generally. All superficial objections to its 



