GRASSES AND CLOVER. 



127 



on late cut. The result of the fifty-six days' feeding is, given in 

 the following table : 



This gives the relative value of early and late cut hay 

 at ::100:79. 



A second experiment was made, in which a smaller quantity 

 of corn-meal was fed in connection with the hay. This experiment 

 lasted nearly three months, beginning December 1st, and ending 

 February 25th. 



This experiment would show a relative value of early cut to 

 late cut ::100:55. 



These cattle were fed all they would eat clean, and it is 

 noticeable that the two fed on the early cut hay ate 690 pounds 

 more than those fed on that which was cut late. These steers 

 were sold at 6i cents per pound, which gave a return for the 

 690 pounds extra of early cut hay, equal to $18.80 per ton. 



Not only does the degree of ripeness, but also the method of 

 curing, affect the quality of the hay. The quicker hay can be cured 

 the better the quality will be, and it is almost as damaging to 

 leave it exposed too long to the hot sun, as to have a rain fall on 

 it. All grasses should be cut when free from external moisture 

 and then cured as rapidly as possible. Under favorable circum- 

 stances hay can be cured and put in the barn the same day, and 



