1846.] Temperature of Soil for Planting Corn. 301 



these ends; besides there will be greater evenness in size as well 

 as uniformity in ripening. It is said that the butt end produces a 

 larger potatoe than the other. This rule of planting the ends 

 separately applies to all potatoes, early or late. 



TEMPERATURE OF THE SOIL FOR PLANTING CORN. 



The temperature of the soil ought to reach 60° of Fah. in the 

 shade before corn is planted; but little danger will then be in- 

 curred of its rotting before germination begins, for when this has 

 taken place it will invariably come up, although the temperature 

 may be subsequently reduced. It is recommended to give it a 

 coating of tar after it has been slightly swollen in water. It 

 secures it from crows, and from certain insects. In regard to 

 soaking seeds it ought to be remembered that a very dry soil will 

 absorb the water in the seeds, and hence circumstances ou'^ht 

 always to determine the propriety of the practice. 



