ii8 OTHER FORAGE PLANTS— PRICKLY COMFREY. 



Analysis shows that the Galega furnishes a very 

 niitritious forage. It is rich in albumen, showing 3 per 

 cent, more of it than either Sanfoin or Eed Clover. 



Prickly Comfrey. 



{Symphytum asperrimum.) 



Caucasian Prickly Comfrey is a distinct plant from 

 the Common Comfrey (S. officinale). Sutton's Farmer's 

 Year-Book says: — This forage plant is rapidly increasing 

 in favour, and although we do not agree with all that has 

 been said in its praise, yet we believe the plant to be 

 valuable for giving a supply of green food in hot and 

 dry seasons. The long roots, which penetrate a great 

 distance into the ground, enable it to obtain moisture 

 which lies beyond the reach of ordinary plants. Prickly 

 Comfrey will succeed in almost any soil, but is especially 

 valuable on soils of a dry or sandy nature. It is very 

 hardy, gives an early cutting, supplies a constant suc- 

 cession of green food, and is permanent. The plant is 

 cultivated by dividing the roots, and spring and autumn 

 are the best seasons for the operation. Instead of 24 

 or 30 inches each way, we recommend from 16 to 18 

 inches only as the most profitable distance. The roots 

 should be covered with about i J or 2 inches of soil. It 

 is very important to keep the ground clean and free from 

 weeds. The cutting should commence early, and be 

 frequently repeated, that the plant may not run very 

 much. It must certainly be done before the bloom 

 appears, for the leaves are most relished when in a 

 young state. As many as five heavy cuttings, each 20 

 tons per acre, or 100 tons per acre, in one season have 



