172 Agricultural Section [pt ii 



Specification of Seed-Mixtures. 



In the description of each plant given in Chap, vm we have 

 seen that each species possesses certain characters of its own 

 which give it some special use or value to the agriculturist. It 

 is by utilising these characters under circumstances which most 

 favour their development, and where they are most needed, that 

 the greatest return is obtained from each kind. If these points 

 are carefully considered, the farmer will be- able himself to decide 

 what kind of mixture will be most likely to meet his requirements, 

 instead of leaving so important a matter to be settled by the 

 seedsman or some other person who is less able to understand the 

 special local conditions to be met. 



To answer the question Which species shall be sown ? we should 

 consider : 



(1) The character of the Soil and Climate. 



While no special attention need be paid to geological formations, 

 it is of the greatest importance to observe the physical nature of 

 the soil; whether it is "light" and porous in texture, or stiff, 

 compact, moist or wet. Also whether it is calcareous or peaty. 

 For practical purposes these are the only distinctions of soils which 

 need be made. The general character of the climate also should 

 be noted, whether wet, humid, or dry. It may here be said that 

 "light" dry soils and dry climates are not naturally adapted for 

 the production of good crops of grass and therefore present the 

 greatest difficulties. 



(2) The purpose for which the mixture is required. 



For leys of only one year's duration it is obvious that only 

 annual or biennial plants can be profitably sown. 



For leys of from two to four years' duration the following 

 grasses (with clovers) may be employed: Eye-grasses, Timothy, 

 Tall Oat-grass, Cock's-foot, and to. a less extent Meadow Fescue. 



For leys or temporary pastures of more than four years' dura- 

 tion the proportion of short-lived plants should be gradually 

 reduced, until in the case of permanent grass fully 60 per cent, of 

 the area should be allotted to permanent plants. 



If grass land is being formed for mowing only, it is desirable 

 that tall-growing plants should predominate, but both "bottom" 



