102 THE PRACTICAL SIDE OF 



this process is continued portions gradually 

 decompose, and supply feeding matter to 

 plants, the roots of which are enabled to 

 penetrate within it. 



There are few systems of cultivation adapted 

 to the Small Holding in which both grass and 

 arable land are not required. The market 

 gardener may prefer a holding which is entirely 

 under tillage, but should 't be necessary for 

 him to keep a horse he will find a plot of grass 

 land advantageous. Small holders who keep 

 cows, pigs, or poultry, or a combination of 

 each class of stock, will also find a plot of 

 grass essential. The pig is as natural a grazer 

 as the cow, the horse, or the sheep, and 

 although young pigs bred for pork or bacon 

 are better kept in the sty from weaning to 

 sale or slaughter, the sow will derive consider- 

 able benefit from daily exercise on a plot 

 of pasture land. 



Both her vitaity and her prolificacy depend 

 to a very large extent upon her liberty and 

 the fresh air and exercise she obtains in 

 consequence. Grass, too, is highly beneficial 

 as a food for sows, especially when they are 

 compelled to graze and earn their living. 

 All things considered, however, arable land 

 provides the heaviest crops which can be 



