342 CLOVERS 



sowed seed in May. The plants came into bloom in 

 September, but did not mature any seed. 



Beggar weed will grow on almost any kind of 

 soil reasonably free from an excess of ground mois- 

 ture. Its power to grow on poor and light soils, 

 even light enough to lift with the wind, is very 

 considerable. Its highest use will probably be 

 found on soils so light and sterile that better 

 forms of useful vegetation are not easily grown 

 on them. 



It can scarcely be called a rotation plant, since 

 it more commonly grows in the wild form, and on 

 lands so poor as to be considered unprofitable for 

 regular cropping. But when cultivated, it should 

 be followed by some crop that can make a good use 

 of the nitrogen left in the soil in the tubercles formed 

 on the roots of the beggar weed plants. 



The soil does not, as a rule, require deep stirring 

 when preparing it for beggar weed. This fact finds 

 demonstration in the ability of the plants to re-seed 

 the ground when grown for grazing. 



The seed is usually sown in the Gulf States late 

 in March or early in April. It germinates slowly, 

 and the plants make the most vigorous growth after 

 the weather becomes warm. The seed is more com- 

 monly scattered broadcast, but may be drilled in, 

 and at distances that will or will not admit of cul- 

 tivation as may be desired. Thick seeding is pref- 

 erable to prevent coarseness and woodiness in the 

 growth of the plants. Not less than lo pounds of 

 hulled seed per acre should be sown in the broadcast 

 form when sown for hay. When sown in drills, less 



