XVIII 

 CONDITIONS AFFECTING THE CHOICE OF PLOWS 



AOST of conditions affect the choice of a plow by the 

 farmers of any given section. Topography and the 

 kind and conditions of soil are among the most im- 

 portant. The climate, also, by determining the length 

 of the plowing season, is a large factor, as well as the area of the 

 fields to be plowed within that season. The type of farming 

 which exists determines to some extent the percentage of the 

 total area plowed each year, and the nature of the crops grown 

 affects the depth of plowing. The state of cultivation deter- 

 mines whether or not sod-breaking plows are needed, while 

 individual or local whims may specify a certain type. The 

 amount and price of human labor and the power available for 

 plowing are influential factors, while the financial circumstances 

 of the farmer may prevent his selection of the equipment 

 which would be most profitable. 



In the New England and North Atlantic States there are 

 perhaps a greater variety of conditions than anywhere else 

 in the United States, except in California. The country is 

 generally rolling, if not rugged; the soil is varied in its com- 

 position and texture, even in the same field, and it is impossible 

 to secure plows which will meet all these conditions with equal 

 success. Stones and sand abound in the soil, which is largely 

 composed of rocks which have been broken down in place, or 

 moved at most only a short distance. There is abundant rain- 

 fall to keep the soil moist enough for easy plowing, and as the 

 areas plowed are small, the season usually suffices for the 



183 



