15 



Flat Pea (LatJiyrus sylvestris) . — A supply of seed obtained 

 from Wagner's accredited agents in this country was purchased 

 for a trial upon a large scale. About one-fourth of an acre of 

 light sandy soil was planted ; but the seed proved to have been 

 mixed with vetch, and but few plants grew. A second sowing 

 made in June germinated better, but all the plants are yet small. 

 This crop has been very highly praised abroad as a fodder crop of 

 superior merit, and has done well in a few localities in this coun- 

 try. It, however, starts slowly, and requires careful attention at 

 first. As it is perennial, this will not prove an important objection 

 if the plant will do what is claimed for it. 



Alfalfa. — About one-fourth acre of light soil has been sown to 

 this crop. It was put in drills about six inches apart, in early 

 spring. It made a good start, and when cut, July 14, it averaged 

 about two feet in height. The weather was then very dry and 

 hot, and the crop was suffering seriously. It was cut about four 

 inches high, in order not to expose the roots to the sun. This 

 treatment apparently has saved it ; but it made little further 

 growth. It remains to be seen whether it will endure our winters. 



Experiment in warming a Stable for Cows. — The experiment 

 barn belonging to the Hatch station is provided with two wings of 

 similar dimensions and similarly constructed in all respects. One 

 of these is piped for hot-water heating. Our object is to test the 

 question whether the artificial heating of a cow stable will pay. 

 We have made but one test. This began Feb. 13 and closed 

 March 31, 1894. This was rather late in the season for the best 

 results, but financial conditions precluded an earlier beginning. 

 The data obtained are of great interest, but the results are not de- 

 cisive. There has apparently been a little gain in milk, due to the 

 liigher and more equable temperature, but a little loss in cream 

 and fat. These differences are small, however, and may be acci- 

 dental. We have endeavored to keep the wing which is warmed 

 at about 55° to 60° F. The averages in degrees Fahrenheit are as 

 follows for this stable : — 



