86 



MASSACHUSETTS AGRICULTURE. 



eration that from the leaves, appears truly enormous, and 

 establishes this at once as one of the most profitable roots for 

 cultivation. 



Analyses. 

 The following table of analyses represents the comparative 

 nutritive qualities of the different varieties, as given by Prof. 

 Johnston. 



It will be observed that nothing is allowed in the above table 

 for water as a nutritive element ; this, as is well known, is 

 nutritive to a certain extent, especially when found in the differ- 

 ent roots. We find that the average amount of nutrition fur- 

 nished by the different mangolds is about twelve per cent, of the 

 entire bulk ; consequently the yield of an acre of mangolds being 

 one thousand bushels, equal in weight to about thirty tons, the 

 amount of nutrition actually afforded is about three and two- 

 fifths tons, an amount exceedingly large and equalled by few 

 other crops. 



Swedish Turnip — Ruta-Baga. 

 Although the mangold wurzel undoubtedly is one of the most 

 valuable of all the roots cultivated for food for farm-stock, the 

 Swedish turnip, for general use, both for stock and domestic 

 food and for the market, certainly occupies as high a position. 

 It is a hardy plant, requires not the best land on the farm, and 

 needs no extravagant manuring, about five cords to the acre 

 being in most cases amply sufficient. 



Preparation of Land. 

 Swedes seem to prefer a sandy or gravelly loam, free from 

 moisture and in a warm locality ; deep rich soils are unfavorable 



