222 



BONES. 



Respecting the quantitative composition of these 

 preparations, the following analyses will furnish in- 

 formation. On an approximative calculation 100 

 lbs contained : — 



3. Tests for Bone-dust. 



The testing of bone-dust is far more simple than 

 that of guano, as in very many cases the eye alone 

 is sufficient to detect foreign intermixtures, more par- 



Bxtreme fineness of its particles renders it very forcing and quickly 

 available. 



The method adopted and recommended by the writer is to spread 

 it as thinly as its sticky nature will allow on the surface of an in- 

 clined piece of ground, in the autumn, so that it may be thoroughly 

 exposed to the winter rain and snow. If stirred up frequently, 

 all these injurious matters will be washed out, which can be easily 

 ascertained by the facility with which it crumbles ;;to powder. It 

 will then be a very valuable addition to the compost-heap, and will 

 probably have absorbed some ammonia from the rain and snow with 

 which it has been in contact. 



Both these substances may be purchased at all sugar-refineries, and 

 will no doubt be enhanced in price, as experience proves their value. 

 I have found a mixture of both of them with guano extremely efficient, 

 particularly the latter, when well washed and dry ; it acts the part of 

 an absorbent of the ammonia of the guano, and adds thereto the valu- 

 able ingredient of phosphate of lime in its finest state of pulveriza- 

 tion. — J. E. T. 



