GRASSES. 1169 



much longer, it becomes woody, and much of it is indigestible. It 

 is not well to attempt too much at a time. Cut only what can be 

 properly managed. 



Grass dries much more rapidly if cut after the dew is off than 

 it will if it is wet when the mowing is done. During the first part 

 of the season, two days will be heeded for properly curing heavy 

 grass. Later, when the grass is nearly ripe, it can be cured in one 

 day. In order to obtain the best quality of hay, rapid drying will 

 be an absolute necessity. 



The degree of drying which it receives will greatly modify the 

 quality of the hay. But we do. not believe in getting in hay, or 

 rather grass, without any drying. Too little drying is worse than 

 an excess, as it will cause the hay to " smoke," and it may heat so 

 much as to be utterly ruined. It is best to dry just enough so that 

 the hay will keep well, and come out bright and nice in the spring. 

 All the drying which is given after this point has been reached, is a 

 decided injury. Hay should go into the barn or stack not crisp and 

 dry, but slightly soft and moist in its own juices ; and as soon as 

 properly cured, place it under cover.* 



*In packing or stacking hay, salt should be slightly sprinkled through it so as to 

 destroy insects. It also aids in preserving it bright, and makes it more palatable and 

 healthful for the horse. 



Note. — The principal authorities consulted in the preparation of this. appendix and 

 the preceding, one are, Sheldon's "Dairy Farming," Harris's '? Manual," Periam's "Ency- 

 clopedia of Agriculture," Reed's "Farming for Profit" (McCurdy,& Co., Philadelphia)* 

 Flint's "Grasses and Forage Plants," and files of agricultural papers. 



34 



