212 CULTIVATION. 



2. The stones on the land are pressed down so as 

 to be out of the way of the mowing machine. 



3. The soil is compacted around seeds after sow- 

 ing in such a manner as to exclude light and to touch 

 them in every part, both of which are of essential 

 advantage in their germination, and assist in giving 

 them a good start. 



4. When the soil is smoothed in this manner, there 

 is less surface exposed for the evaporation of water 

 with its cooling effect. 



5. Light sandy lands, by being rolled in the fall, 

 are rendered more compact, and the loosening effects 

 of frequent freezing and thawing are lessened. 



6. The most important use of the roller is in com- 

 pacting the earth about the roots of grass and grain 

 crops early in the spring. The freezing and thaw- 

 ing of winter leave them usually partly uncovered, 

 or surrounded by air spaces. Their best growth re- 

 quires that these roots be closely pressed by the earth, 

 and this pressure is given by the roller better than 

 in any other way. 



If well under-drained, a large majority of soils 

 would'doubtless be benefited by a judicious use of the 

 roller.* 



MULCHING. 



Mulching consists in covering the soil with salt 

 hay, litter, seaweed, leaves, spent tanbark, chips, or 

 other refuse matter. 



Every farmer must have noticed that, if a board or 



* Field rollers should be made in sections, for ease of turning. 



