20 VOELCKER on the Value of Artificial Manures. 



There are, besides, no less than 36 per cent, of water, and 

 5 per cent, of sand ; or together 42 per cent, of valueless matters. 



We have yet to learn that a manure which does not contain 

 any phosphates is particularly useful for the turnip-crop, and 

 wonder how the manufacturer can reconcile it with his conscience 

 to demand 127. per ton for a mixture of salts, which every farmer 

 may obtain separately at about 47. 



These examples, we trust, will be regarded as sufficiently 

 proving the fact, that whilst there are artificial manures which 

 are equally cheap and efficacious, adulterated or inferior samples 

 are frequently sold and bought at extravagant prices. 



In conclusion, we would observe that the presentation of a 

 chemical analysis by the dealer is in itself no guarantee of the 

 genuineness or value of a manure. What we would recommend 

 to the purchaser is, to demand an analysis of the dealer, and, in 

 case he should not understand the meaning of chemical terms, 

 to have the analysis explained by somebody who does. If satis- 

 factory, he should order the manure according to the furnished 

 analysis. On delivery of the manure, a sample from the bulk 

 should be selected for analysis. A comparison of this analysis 

 with that furnished by ihe dealer then will show whether or not 

 the contract has been fulfilled, and measures can be taken ac- 

 cordingly. 



LONDON : PRINTED BY WILLIAM CLOWES AND SONS, STAMFORD STREET, 

 AND CHARING CROSS. 



