6 WILSON & TOOMER FERTILIZER COMPANY 



Results Desired 



Since our lands are so varied and seasons are unde- 

 pendable, it is well for the grower to know just what 

 are the results to be obtained by working the soil. The 

 old idea of cultivating to kill weeds has long been cast 

 aside. Land is cultivated to secure proper texture and 

 the right content of air, water, and humus. These fac- 

 tors are dependent one upon the other, for no one of 

 them would likely be correct without the others being 

 about right also. 



Texture To be in perfect tilth, land must be a 

 crumbly mass of soil grains, easily penetrated by feed- 

 ing roots, admitting enough air but not too much, and 

 holding a large amount of capillary water. The deeper 

 in the soil this condition is maintained, the greater re- 

 sources at the command of the plant. Vegetable growers 

 and farmers should plow deep every fall, but the grove- 

 maker must depend upon first preparation and constant 

 attention to surface conditions. However, his trees are 

 continuously on the ground and with their extensive 

 root systems keep the underground right if given a 

 chance for a good start. Working wet ground, especially 

 in summer time, causes it to pack and sour. Often, the 

 harm done by one ill-advised cultivation will show its 

 effects for two or three years. Similar effects occur when 

 particles are too fine, so very fine there is practically 

 no room for air or water in the soil. Such condition 

 can be overcome by working when in right stage of mois- 



