No. 4.] DAlKYlxXG. 121) 



Question. Have you studied out the value of alfalfa 

 over good clover-mixed hay? 



Dr. Hills. Although located in the Charaplain valley, 

 we have as yet been unable to grow alfalfa successfully, 

 partly because of witch grass. But I expect that there is 

 now at our local depot a ton of alfalfa meal. We shall feed 

 this ground alfalfa hay this winter, as compared with a fairly 

 good mixed clover hay. Next year I can tell you somc- 

 thino; as to the results. 



QuESTiox. You prefer tr3'ing the alfalfa meal, rather 

 than trying the alfalfa before it is ground ? 



Dr. Hills. No ; I should rather try the hay, but we 

 cannot grow it. 



Question. Couldn't vou buv it? 



Dr. Hills. Possibly. I think next year we will try that. 



Question. Speaking of the growing of alfalfa, don't you 

 think the greatest trouble with those who have tried it and 

 made a failure is that they haven't properly prepared their 

 soil? 



Dr. Hills. This is doubtless true. One of the reasons 

 why the valley people are succeeding is because of the lime- 

 stone character of the soil ; then, too, its farmers are old 

 sheep growers, and know how to feed pretty well ; and they 

 have to prepare their soil extra well to do anything at all 

 with it. A thoroughly good seed bed, an alkaline soil and 

 freedom from weeds are three of the essentials in alfalfa 

 groAving. The Chann)lain valley })eople don't need to do 

 it, but elsewhere the use of Avood ashes or of lime will 

 sweeten the soil up so that the chances of raising alfalfa are 

 increased. I expect to see the day when New England can 

 grow alfalfa successfully. 



Dr. HosKiNGER. It is very pleasant to speak when a'ou 

 speak through another person's lips, and I hope the gentle- 

 man will pardon me ; but some of us AV'ho went down to Dr. 

 Chamberlain's farm had the pleasure of seeing a large field 

 of alfalfa which had been ijrown under the direction of Mr. 

 Fielden ; so, if I may be permitted, I should like to have 

 Mr. Fielden tell those who were not there something about 

 his methods of iirowinff it. 



