OF AGRICULTURE. 115 



cut in the proper season ; and where the soil suits it, 

 the crop is generally abundant. This grass, on ac- 

 count of the bulbous character of its roots, which are 

 very near the surface, will not stand the climate of 

 the South, except in favored localities. 



Orchard Grass. This grass will grow upon almost 

 any soil which is not swampy. It may be sown in 

 spring, with clover, which it eradicates after one or 

 two seasons. It has a very strong root, and is not 

 easily overcome by other grasses ; it is, hence, suitable 

 for lots designed to be kept in grass a long time. It 

 starts early in spring, and continues green quite late 

 in autum, and is, therefore, valuable for early and 

 late pastures. As a hay crop, it does not hold a high 

 place. When harvested for hay, it should be cut in 

 full bloom; because the hay has then the highest 

 value. 



Herd's Grass. Sometimes called " red top," thrives 

 well in situations suited for it, which can hardly be 

 too Avet. It will succeed even on white, pipe clay 

 land. It does not compare with other grasses as a 

 pasture, but makes excellent hay. 



Irish Velvet Grass." Irish velvet," is the name by 

 which this grass is known in the middle part of Mis- 

 sissippi. It is sometimes called "ivhite top.'' It will 

 grow on almost any land ; and on soil of good quality 

 and moderately moist, will grow to the height of 

 two and a half to three and a half feet. Like clover, 

 it is a biennial ; but by plowing a crop under every 

 third year, will keep possession of the land for 

 several years. This is a soft, velvety grass, and 

 would make excellent hay, if cut just when shedding 

 its flowers. For pastures, there is no grass superior 



