THE COW PEA. 5 



to adapt itself to circumstances, it has developed a large 

 number of varieties, some of which fully mature in the 

 short northern summer. Its cultivation is possible and 

 profitable in many of the northern and western states; 

 and in the south has proved itself one of the best annuals 

 for forage as well as for green manuring. In variation of 

 size, habits, productiveness and uses, as well as in adapta- 

 bility to diverse soils and locations, the cow pea rivals 

 and even surpasses corn. Some sorts mature seed within 

 sixty days from planting; others maintain a vigorous 

 growth for six months or longer, even putting forth flowers 

 till the vines are killed by frost. Some are short, stocky 

 and erect in growth; others rapid climbers; while others 

 trail along on the ground and send forth great masses of 

 vines. The seeds vary in size, color and shape: flat, 

 round, oblong, kidney; black, white, red, purple, yellow, 

 striped, mottled; small, medium, large. The cow pea will 

 grow on any soil not too wet, and in most climates free from 

 frost during two summer months. Its stalks and leaves 

 make fine hay, the best of temporary pasture and most 

 excellent green manure; its seeds, gfeen or ripe, are as 

 nutritious as beans and are much relished for use as human 

 food, or, as ripe grain, afford the richest kind of forage for 

 all farm animals. 



VARIETIES. 



The cow pea has a natural tendency towards variation 

 which constantly results in the evolving of new varieties, 



