480 



BOARD OF AGRICULTURE. 



Analyses of Rowen. 



[1. Sun-dried in the field. 2. After being in a silo eleven months.] 



These analyses point in the same direction as the previous 

 ones. The reduction of nitrogenous matter as compared with 

 that of the non-nitrogenous extract matter is most noticeable ; 

 yet this circumstance does not represent the entire loss in 

 orofanic matter. The decrease in crude cellulose and the in- 

 crease in crude fat both confirm that statement. To state with 

 more exactness the loss of organic matter in cases like those 

 under consideration, requires a more definite knowledge re- 

 garding the amount of dry matter contained in the fresh rowen, 

 and of the average moisture of the various layers of rowen in 

 the silo. None of our ordinary modes of preserving fodder is 

 without the liability of losses ; it remains in most instances a 

 matter of degree, depending quite largely on circumstances 

 beyond the control of the farmer. Succulent plants are most 

 likely to suffer seriously in the ordinary drying process, and it 

 is for this reason that the silo system deserves, in particular, 

 a careful consideration for the efficient preservation of these 

 crops. 



