196 
essary to the correction of unhealthful conditions caused by the 
sisi ee of plants as it is for the sleeping apartments of 
xygen plays a very important part in its effect upon 
different soil compounds and upon the chemical fertilizers that 
are applied to the soil. 
Underdraining works advantageously in two ways, in carrying 
off surplus water quickly and in supplying the soil more freely 
with the oxygen it requires. There are orchards a century old, 
one in healthy condition and bearing fruit, that were provided 
under drains before the trees were planted. Where irriga- 
tion is practised the underdraining will be found to be a necessity 
to carry off deleterious matter that accumulates in the soil. I 
have seen beautiful orchards less than twenty years ago planted 
in irrigated soil that were dying, their feeding roots having been 
destroyed by alkalies and acids that had accumulated and which 
might have been carried off through drains properly provided: 
The application of lime will be found to be highly beneficial 
to most soils. The most productive soil is that which is derived 
from limestone. Lime is essential to the growth of vegetation. 
The best horses and cattle are those reared in limestone sections. 
The best trees and fruits and the most beautiful flowers are grow 
in limestone soil. Of all requirements needed by the soil day, 
without doubt, lime is one of the most essential. Humus is a 
most important element in its action in the soil, but without lime 
the process of decomposition of both animal and vegetable matter 
will be slow, while without its presence, beneficial bacteria cannot 
live, and without which clover, alfalfa, vetch, peas, and other 
legumes cannot grow 
The soil over are sections has lost much of its lime by the 
growing of crops that are sold and carried off from the land; 
while a a loss ie from heavy rainfalls. The very 
general nae to grow alfalfa in the older soil of the country is 
on account of the absence of needed lime. Alfalfa may be 
grown as nese in Maine as in New Mexico if the soil is 
properly prepared, is heavily limed, and hardy varieties suited 
to the climate are used. 
Carbonate of lime is the best form to use. Its action is some- 
