NEW CROPS 115 



good hay, altho alfalfa and soybeans are both better for that pur- 

 pose. I was exceedingly glad to see the Agronomy and Animal Hus- 

 bandry Departments cooperating on the South Farm last fall in the 

 investigation of this pasture plant. Many of us are convinced of the 

 great value of this crop, while many others still dispute it or are 

 frankly skeptical. Much more exact experimental evidence is needed 

 before sweet clover may occupy its rightful heritage. 



NEED FOR INVESTIGATION OF CLOVER PROBLEMS 



We need to know a great deal more about the factors governing 

 the inoculation of all our legumes, particularly sweet clover and soy- 

 beans. Do such things as the calcium and phosphorus requirements 

 of these plants affect the multiplication and activity of nitrogen- 

 gathering bacteria; and does deficiency or abundance of rainfall do 

 the same? Then how, why, and to what extent, as measured by the 

 productivity of the land? Do these same factors affect the physio- 

 logical functions of the plants and their composition? If they do, 

 how do these differences affect the functions and growth of young 

 animals that feed upon them? 



We need to know whether very early pasturing of sweet clover 

 is beneficial or detrimental to the plant. Is it wise to pasture it 

 closely? If not, is it beneficial to clip it when it reaches a certain 

 stage ? If so, what is the best stage, and how many clippings are bene- 

 ficial and economical? Does clipping improve palatability ? Does it 

 increase carrying capacity? 



Shall we try to grow a clear stand of sweet clover, or mix other 

 clovers or grasses with it; and why? What effect do the different 

 plants in a pasture mixture have upon soil fertility? Is the amount 

 of forage increased and its efficiency in meat making improved by mix- 

 ing pasture clovers and grasses? If so, to what extent? And why, 

 and how? 



To what extent will the answers to all such questions affect our 

 farm practises ? We shall need the help of the economist to reach our 

 decision. 



Soybeans, reaching maturity in a single season, are much more 

 adaptable than a perennial or biennial. Moreover the requirements 

 for this crop are not nearly so exacting as those for sweet clover and 

 alfalfa. The crop is more tolerant of an acid soil, for one thing. 

 But just what effect will liberal applications of limestone, so benefi- 



