1912.] PUBLIC DOCUMENT — No. 31. 277 



experiments reported for all trials. The protein in tlie clover is 

 shown to be substantially 12 per cent, less digestible than in 

 the alfalfa; the coefficients vary 16 per cent, in case of the 

 average for all trials. In case of the fiber the conditions are 

 reversed, differences of from 5 to 8 points being noted in favor 

 of the clover. The comparative digestibility of the extract 

 matter is about the same, although the average figures show 

 7 points in favor of the alfalfa. In making a comparison of 

 the two plants from the standpoint of digestibility, two im- 

 portant differences are noted: (1) the protein in the alfalfa 

 is noticeably more digestible than in the clover (12 to 16 

 points), and (2) the fiber from 5 to 8 points less so. In total 

 digested the two plants approach each other, showing an average 

 of about 60 per cent, as against 55 per cent, for timothy, 60 

 per cent, for early cut fine hay, 65 per cent, for rowen, 70 per 

 cent, for the entire corn plant, and 85 per cent, for corn meal. 



It is evident that the relative value of the two crops cannot 

 be determined from their digestibility alone ; other important 

 factors to be considered are cost of production, yield and adapta- 

 bility to Massachusetts conditions. Taking all the evidence into 

 consideration, it would appear that although the cost of seed 

 and preparation of land is somewhat against the alfalfa, yet its 

 nuieli greater length of life, its larger average annual yield, 

 and its rather superior nutritive value are all in its favor. The 

 conditions governing its successful cultivation must be carefully 

 studied by all interested in its production. To the lack of 

 attention to these conditions by the average farmer is due in no 

 small measure the failures reported. 



