6 FRUIT CULTURE. 



all inequalities are removed and the ground is 

 thoroughly pulverized. August and early Sep- 

 tember are usually the best months of the year 

 for sowing the seed, although early spring sow- 

 ing will give time for the young grass to be- 

 come established before hot and dry weather 

 sets in. 



The Agrostis species of seeds is the basis for 

 all good lawns, of which Rhode Island Bent (A. 

 canina) is best, and may be sown alone at the 

 rate of three to four bushels per acre. Eed Top 

 (A. vulgaris) is also good, but not so fine. A 

 mixture which gives excellent results is also rec- 

 ommended, as follows : three bushels of R. I. Bent, 

 or of Red Top, and one bushel of Kentucky Blue 

 Grass (JPoa pratensis). If this is sown in Au- 

 gust a pound of white clover seed may be sown 

 and rolled in, early in the spring. The bright 

 blossoms of the clover enliven the bed of green 

 and produce a charming effect. But many pre- 

 fer a uniform carpet of green, and rely upon the 

 Bent alone. Four bushels would be too heavy 

 seeding for grass lands for a crop, but it is none 

 too much for a thick carpet for the lawn. After 

 sowing, a slight brushing with light birch boughs 

 and a firm and thorough rolling with a heavy 

 roller will finish the work. Bear in mind that 

 the firm pressure of the soil is not only essential 



