186 FORAGE PLANTS AND THEIR CULTURE 



from Switzerland, Holland and Germany gave in each 

 case practically as good results as that from France. 

 The New Zealand strain proved inferior to the French in 

 six trials. It proved to be slower in growth and somewhat 

 less winter hardy. 



At three experiment stations in Denmark, tests were 

 conducted for three years to determine the amount of hay 

 produced from seed from different sources; namely, 

 United States, Denmark, Germany, France, Sweden, 

 Australia and New Zealand. The American strain was 

 slightly superior to the European at two of the stations. 

 The Australian and New Zealand strains showed a smaller 

 yield by about 20 per cent. 



191. Utilization of stubble and aftermath. Among 

 orchard-grass seed growers, there is much difference of 

 opinion as to the utilization of the stubble and aftermath, 

 especially as to its effect upon the next year's seed crop. 

 A common practice is to cut the stubble and aftermath 

 in the latter part of August and to utilize it for hay, but 

 some farmers allow it to lie on the field as a mulch. Some 

 farmers cut the stubble as soon as possible after seed har- 

 vest, while others believe it is best to leave both the stubble 

 and aftermath uncut. 



Pasturing the stubble and aftermath is a very common 

 practice and if done judiciously, especially with sheep, is 

 believed not only not to lessen the next season's crop but 

 even to cause an increase. 



192. Mixtures. Orchard-grass, excepting for seed 

 production, is seldom sown alone as the bunchy nature 

 of the grass does not fully utilize the ground. One of the 

 most satisfactory mixtures is orchard-grass, tall meadow 

 oat-grass and alsike clover, in the following proportions : 

 10 pounds of orchard-grass, 20 pounds of tall meadow oat- 



