RYE-GRASS 71 
When there is not sufficient moisture to ensure an 
immediate germination, it is good practice to go 
over the soil with a light roller. This compacting 
of the surface will encourage the upward move- 
ment of water, and have a tendency to ensure 
quick germination and growth. 
Yield and value of rye-grass 
Rye-grass produces abundant leaves. It grows 
two to three feet high. It may be harvested in the 
eastern states by the middle of May or first of 
June. While the yield is usually not so great as 
that of orchard-grass, it grows much more rapidly, 
and when suitably manured will make two or 
three cuttings for soilimg purposes in the same 
season. When an abundance of plant-food is 
available, very heavy yields are obtained, as high 
as sixteen to eighteen tons of green forage per acre 
having been recorded as the entire yield from three 
cuttings. 
When in the best condition for soiling, or when 
just heading, rye-grass contains about the same 
amount of dry matter as orchard-grass, although 
it is richer in nitrogenous substance and poorer in 
erude fiber. It thus makes a more palatable and 
richer food than orchard-grass. It does not stand 
the northern winters well, and its best use in this 
country, except in the South, has been as an 
