BERMUDA GRASS. 19 



There are several distinct varieties, differing principally in vigor 

 of growth and in the character of the rootstocks and runners. Of 

 the many forms which have been tested by the United States De- 

 partment of Agriculture the Giant grows most rankly and so is the 

 best for hay. 



The yield of hay varies greatly with the locality hi which it is grown. 

 In many localities Bermuda grass does not grow large enough to 

 pay for cutting, while on very favorable soils it may yield annually 6 

 to 8 tons of hay per acre. 



It is the best permanent pasture grass in most of the South. On 

 soils of ordinary fertility it will support about 1 steer per acre for 

 eight to nine months, while on exceptionally favorable soils it may 

 support four or five steers for a longer time. Pastures may be greatly 

 improved by growing some legume with the Bermuda grass 

 lespedeza, bur clover, black medic, and melilotus being the species 

 commonly used for the purpose. 



Bermuda grass is of great value for use in stopping the washing of 

 gullies and in binding levees and other embankments. 



Its feeding value is fully equal to that of timothy, though its 

 market value is usually less. 



It can be eradicated either by freezing the "roots" or by keeping 

 the ground heavily shaded by the growing of other crops. 



WASHINGTON : GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE : 1917 



