INTRODUCTION. 13 



them a thorough study, would be amply repaid. 

 But we must accept the fact, that the majority 

 of our farmers are not educated chemists, and 

 that in connection with the labors of the farm, 

 they have not the time ; and it cannot be ex- 

 pected that they would have the inclination to 

 prosecute a study that requires so much patient 

 research as the science of chemistry. To be- 

 come acquainted with those intricate processes 

 which are at all times taking place in the plant, 

 the germination of the seed, the causes that lead 

 to the formation of the complex and changing 

 compounds in the different stages of the growth 

 of the plant, the formation of the varied colors 

 and perfume of the blossoms, the changes that 

 take place in the ripening of the fruit, is a life- 

 long study for men who have leisure, with a 

 natural aptitude for the subject. We do not 

 question the utility of these studies. A more 

 intimate knowledge of vegetable physiology 

 will undoubtedly be of incalculable benefit, in 

 indicating the causes and cure of disease and 

 blight in plants, which often disappoints the 

 hopes of our farmers. 



But the majority of those who have to take 

 hold of the handles of the plow themselves, 

 require more practical information ; and in order 

 to render it acceptable, it should be given in 

 practical terms, so that when they seek informa- 



