222 



THE RYEGRASS CROP. 



proportion fails. If we had to appraise the value of the 

 samples examined merely from the evidence afforded by 

 the table, we should estimate them almost in multiple 

 proportions to their respective weights the lower num- 

 bers as next to nothing in value, and the higher ones at 

 fully ten times their worth. Of this the following may 

 offer an approximative example : 



In all the lighter samples of ryegrass a varied quantity of 

 Italian ryegrass was met with. This, Professor Buckman 

 continues, is of course mixed in the way of direct adul- 

 teration, usually being old, worn-out Italian ryegrass, 

 aiding immensely in filling up the measure, from the loose- 

 ness derivable from the long awns of this variety ; and 

 this circumstance, of course, aids greatly in decreasing 

 the weight per bushel. The evil of this is much more 

 than at first appears, as, although the Italian would grow 

 and make a great appearance the first year if at all worth 

 anything, yet the fact of its being annual is fatal in any 

 position where perennial growth is required, and more 

 especially in the permanent pastures. 



These tabulated analyses tell their own tale, and show 

 the great importance of a careful selection of the seed about 

 to be sown, either for a rotation or a perennial forage 

 crop. Although adulteration is carried on in the seed of 

 our other crops let us take turnips for instance, and of 

 this we have already spoken (p. 299, vol. i.) it is rarely 

 carried to anything like the same extent, or attended with 

 such injurious consequences as in the present case. In our 



