174 AMERICAN HUSBANDRY. 



spread broadcast. The roots extend simultaneously 

 with the stems, and draw sustenance for the plant 

 through their extreme points. Hence, by the time 

 the crop is first dressed, the roots have extended be- 

 yond the manure deposited in the hill, and, conse- 

 quently, the plant derives but a partial benefit from 

 this central deposite of food. If, on the other hand, 

 the manure is spread broadcast, the roots, as they 

 extend, are constantly reaching new supplies, and 

 the plant is sustained in undiminished vigour. 



Thirdly: In regard to fallow crops instead of na 

 ked fallows. Where sward ground receives but one 

 plmghing (but that should be a thorough one), the 

 vegetable matter of the surface is turned completely 

 under, safe from the wasting influences of the weath- 

 er. This vegetable matter readily decomposes, fur- 

 nishing a permeable stratum for the roots, the food 

 which these roots seek for, and moisture to convey 

 it to the plants. As the roots of the sod decay, the 

 upper stratum becomes permeable to heat and air, 

 and crumbles into a fine tilth. In the case of naked 

 fallows, a good portion of the vegetable matter is 

 lost by being turned to the surface at the second 

 ploughing, and the ground consequently becomes 

 more compact, and is not so readily penetrated by 

 the roots of the crop, nor by heat, air, and moisture, 

 the essential agents of vegetable growth. And, 



Fourthly: The facts which we have detailed af- 

 ford a strong argument in favour of the alternating 

 system of husbandry wherever it can be introduced ; 

 of periodically breaking and pulverizing the soil with 

 the plough, harrow, and roller, and with root-crops, 

 thereby rendering it more congenial to the growth 

 of grasses and small grain. 



