2IO 



THE FORAGE AND FIBER CROPS IN AMERICA 



Its climatic range in North America is confined to that of 

 the cotton plant. In sections where seed will ripen, the plant 

 compares favorably with the cowpeas as a soil "renovator." 

 The method of culture resembles the latter, except that rows are 

 usually farther apart four to five feet. It finds its best growth 



Velvet bean flowers. One-third 



natural size, a and b Single 



flowers at different stages 



(From photo by Carman) 



A cluster of velvet bean 

 One-third natural size 

 (From photo by Carman) 



pods 



on light sandy soils with liberal applications of acid phosphate 

 and potash. Seed may be broadcasted at the rate of one bushel 

 per acre, or planted at intervals of two feet in rows four feet 

 apart, dropping two to three seeds in a hill. It has been reported 

 to yield 2 to 4 tons of hay and 20 to 28 bushels of seed per acre. 

 The plant is apparently a native of India whence, as an 

 ornamental garden plant, it was introduced into the United 

 States in the latter half of the nineteenth century. Its use as 

 a forage plant is yet in the experimental stage. 



