158 EFFECTS OF PULVERIZATION". 



appear in large numbers, and cause great havoc. 

 Preparation in the fall is absolutely necessary when 

 the land is to be planted the next spring; but to 

 allow the ground to remain fallow, or to cultivate 

 it with hoed crops during the season before planting, 

 is productive of more satisfactory results. 



The results of 2^ulverization. It is well in every 

 important work to consider the effect to be produced. 

 This, as relating to comminution of the soil, is — 



1. The more ready destruction of weeds. 



2. The decrease of the tenacity of heavy, and the 

 increase of it in light, soils. 



3. Greater fertility, on account of more rapid 

 absorption of moisture. 



This is a very important quality in pulverized 

 earths, especially in warm and dry climates. Sir 

 H. Davy observed that " the power of the soil to 

 absorb water by cohesive attraction depends in a 

 great measure on the state of division of its parts ; 

 the more divided they are, the greater is their ab- 

 sorbent power." 



4. The free admission of the air to the soil. 



5. The enlargement of root-pasture. 



6. The mixture of earths. 



7. The destruction of insects. 



8. Increase of heat at the season when it is 

 desirable. 



M. Alphonsc dc Candollc has admirably illustrated 



