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But where the seed constitutes the chief intention of the cul- 

 tivator, it is contended by some that the drill mode is preferable, 

 as requiring much less seed in sowing, and affording a much 

 better and more abundant produce. Besides, the smoothness 

 and weight of the seed render it extremely proper for being 

 drilled ; and the crops can be kept clean with greater facility. 



In this method, the distances of the rows or drills should 

 vary according to the circumstances of the soil, and the manner 

 in which the crops are to be kept clean. Where the hand-hoe 

 is to be chiefly depended upon, narrow distances may be pro- 

 per, as 10 or 12 inches ; but where this work is to be 

 principally executed by the horse-hoe or cultivator, larger in- 

 tervals may be more suitable, as those of eighteen or twenty 

 inches. Slight harrowing and rolling are sometimes afterwards 

 necessary, especially the latter in dry seasons. 



It has been observed, that thick -sown flax runs up in height, 

 and produces fine soft flax ; but that when sown thin it does 

 not rise to such a height, but spreads out more, sending off a 

 greater number of side branches, which produce a great abun- 

 dance of seed, which is much better filled, more plump and 

 heavy than that which is produced from thick sown flax- crops. 

 The crops cultivated in this way are not so liable to be beaten 

 down in bad weather, the stems being stronger and better 

 fortified by the more free admission of sun and air amongst 

 them ; and they are not so much exposed to danger in weeding 

 or cleaning the rows. 



Mr. Donaldson observes, that a crop of flax frequently 

 grows short, and runs out a great number of seed-bearing 

 branches. When that is the case, the seed, not the flax, ought 

 to be the farmer's chief object ; and the crop should be allowed 

 to stand till the seeds are in a great measure perfected. But 

 that when the crop thrives, and is likely to become more valu- 

 able for the flax than the seeds, it should be pulled soon after 

 the bloom drops off, and before the pods turn hard and sharp 

 in the points. Whenever the seed is the main object, the 

 crops should be perfectly ripened, which is clearly shown by 

 the points of the seed-pods turning hard and sharp, and the 

 capsules beginning to crack. It usually takes place towards 

 the end of July, or beginning of the following month. 



