68 PRACTICAL NOTES ON GRASSES AND GRASS GROWING. 
regretted. Perhaps it is unnecessary to add that the drains 
and dykes must always be kept well cleared of all weeds and 
water growth, so the water has easy flow, which is the keynote 
of success in drainage. 
The first effect noticeable in swamp reclamation is that the 
natural bog vegetation becomes thinner and more stunted in 
growth, moss begins to appear in large quantities, and a 
peculiar grass (somewhat resembling twitch grass, but blue in 
colour) puts in an appearance. About May 20th mow down 
as closely as possible all vegetation, which bleeds, weakens, 
and destroys the watcr-loving plants. In a short time little 
will be seen upon the marsh except a few straggling black 
rushes and the aforesaid moss and blue grass, which nothing 
will eat. By diligently moulding and sowing renovating seeds 
some useful grasses will soon establish themselves. 
In the selection of renovating seeds do not forget the nature 
of the soil used for moulding, the general nature and surround- 
ings of the land proposed to be sown, and make allowances 
accordingly. Observe those seeds which thrive best, and 
profit by experiments. 
Of the heavy seeds we have derived most benefit from 
alsike, red suckling, white clover, and perennial cow grass. 
In grasses the coarser are preferable to the finer ; fiorin and 
cocksfoot are better than either of the hard, tall, or meadow 
fescues. ‘The poas are not so suitable, except Poa aquatica, 
which is most serviceable if it can be obtained. 
At this stage the marsh (if it can be called a marsh) cannot 
be punished too much by stock feeding and jamming about 
on it. During the winter moulding is continued, and when 
the frosty weather comes cart on not less than forty loads per 
acre of heavy soil. In the spring, if practicable, fold fattening. 
sheep upon the marsh, feeding them with artificial foods, hay 
and turnips, etc.; follow with renovating seeds, and the 
transformation will be more rapid and lasting. 
