Influence of the Stage of Growth 211 



These facts do not pertain to timothy alone. Other 

 meadow grasses are similar in their characteristics of 

 growth. The clovers, and especially alfalfa, deteriorate 

 to a marked degree from the same cause when allowed 

 to ripen too fully before cutting. 



It is probable, all factors considered, that if the 

 grasses and clovers which are cut for hay could be 

 harvested when in full bloom a desirable compromise 

 would be effected between quantity and quality. Al- 

 falfa should be cut no later than when the first bloom 

 makes its appearance. 



Conditions are quite different with maize. This 

 plant in maturing gains not only in quantity but in 

 quality. In support of this statement data are cited 

 from an experiment conducted at the Maine Experi- 

 ment Station. 



The following is the composition of the dry matter 

 of the corn when cut at several periods of growth : 



In 100 parts water - free substance of maize 



Total 

 nitrogen- 

 Crude free 

 Stage of growth Ash Protein fiber Sugar Starch extract Fat 



Very immature, Aug. 15 9.3 15. 26.5 11.7 46.6 2.6 



A few roasting ears, Aug. 28 .. 6.5 11.7 23.3 20.4 2.1 55.6 2.9 



All roasting stage, Sept. 4 .... 6.2 11.4 19.7 20.6 4.9 59.7 3. 



Some ears glazing, Sept. 12.... 5.6 9.6 19.3 21.1 5.3 62.5 3. 



All ears glazed, Sept. 21 5.9 9.2 18.6 16.5 15.4 63.3 3. 



Here we see the same decrease in the proportions of 

 ash and protein as occurs with timothy, but, unlike 

 timothy, the maturing of the maize causes a decrease in 

 the percentage of fiber and a material increase in the 

 relative amount of the soluble carbohydrates, sugar 

 and starch, 



