ROOT CROPS PARSNBP. 337 



theif mode of culture, is in all respects similar to that of beets ; 

 they require a similar soil, and the same attention to ensure a 

 crop. The value of carrots for field culture, is fully equal to 

 that of beets. They will yield about the same quantity of 

 food, and, for horses, are decidedly preferable to beets or any 

 other roots. 



The value of this crop is also beginning to be estimated, 

 by many of our farmers. We do not see why this root is not 

 cultivated instead of the Swedish turnip, as we believe that 

 it is much more valuable for farm stock, especially for cows 

 which give milk. 



Parsnip. The parsnip is also beginning to be cultivated 

 for farm stock, and requires the same treatment as beets and 

 carrots. Parsnips are equally productive, and much better 

 for some purposes. They may remain in the ground over 

 winter, and be fed out in the spring. On this account, they 

 are preferable for feeding stock late in the season. We do 

 not know why this root is not cultivated more extensively by 

 all our farmers. 



Artichoke. The Jerusalem artichoke is a root which is 

 valuable for light sandy soils. The introduction of it among 

 the cultivated roots, would be of the greatest advantage to ag- 

 riculture. (See p. 129.) 



Onion. This can hardly be regarded as a field crop, al- 

 though they are raised in great abundance near our cities. 

 Their mode of culture is well known. They require a moist 

 soil, and may be cultivated several years in succession on 

 the same field. 



Turnips. The introduction of the turnip among the cul- 

 tivated crops, constitutes an era in the art of husbandry. 

 Of the several varieties which are cultivated, we may select 

 three, as most worthy of attention : the yellow, white and 

 Swedish or ruta baga turnips. 



1. Ruta baga or Swedish turnip is the most important of 

 these varieties, and yields the largest quantity of vegetable 



