160 



FORAGE CROPS GRASSES 



is an annual plant. It is native of Africa and is well adapted to 

 our southern states. It endures the dry climate of the semi-arid 

 states, and will produce several cuttings of hay in a season where 

 the weather is favorable. It may be either sown broadcast or 



FlQ. 107. Sudan grass is an annual closely related to the sorghum group. This photo- 

 graph was taken at Hays, in western Kansas. The crop endures a dry climate but in moister 

 regions will make three or four cuttings a year. (U. S. D. A.) 



drilled in rows. The latter method is common where seed is to 

 be harvested. 



FORAGE CROP MACHINERY 



Mowers (Fig. 108), rakes and machines for special crops are 

 used in connection with the harvesting of forage crops. The mod- 

 ern mowing machine is so well known that a description of it is 

 hardly necessary. The improvement of the mower has caused the 

 farmer to lay aside the scythe and cradle. With it forage crops 

 are harvested rapidly. 



