cow PEAS 



THE cow pea is a legume which can be grown in any soil or in any 

 location where corn can be produced. If the season is short and the 

 growth is rank, the berry will not mature. In nutrients it is almost 

 equal to alfalfa, but is not relished by stock as well on account of the 

 stems being more woody, until a taste has been acquired. 



Cow peas are very beneficial in any rotation, always increasing the 

 following crop. Like clover and alfalfa, it improves the soil both chemic- 

 ally and physically. The plant gathers nitrogen from the air, the roots 

 grow deep and are abundant, and when the crop or any part of it is 

 plowed under, it always adds greatly to the organic content of the soiL 



Uses 



The cow pea is splendid for soiling and silage. It should not be placed 

 in the silo alone, but with corn. If the farmer exercises great care and 

 has a knowledge of the nutritive value of peas and corn, he can make a 

 splendid balanced ration as he fills his silo. A good plan is to drill the 

 peas a few inches from the hill after the last cultivation of corn. The 

 vines will cling to the stalks and can be harvested with the corn when 

 the silo is being filled. Cow peas also make an excellent pasture for 

 hogs. Their value is increased if sown with rape or oats. 



When to Plant 



They can be planted as a catch crop after grain and used for late 

 pasturing or plowed under. Or they can be planted in the spring about 

 the time corn is planted if intended for hay or seed. They should not, 

 however, be planted until after the gi'ound is at least above forty-five 

 degrees Fahrenheit, for the reason that they will rot in cold damp 

 ground. They can be sown broadcast or drilled. If intended for seed 

 it is advisable to drill far enough apart to permit of cultivation. 

 They germinate very rapidly in a warm, moist, mellow soil and in rich 

 ground make a remarkable gi'owth. 



Amount to Sow 



When sown broadcast one and one-half bushels is sufficient, but if 

 drilled one bushel will make a splendid stand. 



Varieties 



The Whippoorwill is probably the best variety to plant in the north- 

 ern states. The growth is rank and rapid. They should, however, 

 be planted with corn or sorghum if intended for pastui'e. Mount Olive, 

 Warrens, Hybrid, New Era, Black Eye and Hammond's Black are all 

 good varieties. 



