134 FORAGE CROPS 



ing two crops, the yields of each are often as large 

 as can be obtained from the larger -growing varie- 

 ties. 



Tli ere are many other good varieties that possess 

 in varying degrees the characteristics mentioned 

 for this one. As a rule, the flint varieties are 

 superior to the dent in the northern parts of the 

 country. The smaller, quicker- growing varieties 

 of the dent sorts are also satisfactory, although 

 requiring much thicker seeding and a longer period 

 of growth. 



Preparation of land 



The yield of the crop depends to a very consid- 

 erable extent on conditions that are favorable for 

 complete germination and very early growth. The 

 importance of this point cannot be emphasized too 

 strongly. Naturally, the preparation of the land 

 and its treatment will depend somewhat on its 

 condition and character. In the first place, if 

 either clover or grass sod is used, it is generally 

 good practice not to plow too deep, which is 

 likely to turn up parts of the soil not thoroughly 

 mixed with vegetable matter, and not in good 

 physical condition. This admixture of subsoil has 

 an unfavorable effect on quick and satisfactory 

 germination. Therefore, relatively shallow plow- 

 ing, — five to six inches, — is preferable. 



Plowing should be performed as early as it is 



