7 FORAGE CROPS 
annual, the land being re- seeded each year. It 
makes excellent pasture, relished by all stock, 
and yields an abundant erop of hay of good quality 
for dairy cows. 
COMPOSITION OF ITALIAN RYE-GRASS 
One ton An average 
contain peresyield 
Per cent. Lbs. Lbs. 
WatOt ies Se war ae a Ge 73.2 re oa % 
Dry matter... ....... 26.8 536 6,432 
Ether extract. ........ 1.3 26 312 
Crude fiber... ....... 6.8 “136 1,632 
Protein. .... ois makers eae 3.1 62 744 
Ashi ai 3 Gls oe ee Be Bs 2.5 50 600 
Nitrogen-free extract ..... 13.3 266 3,192 
The large quantity of dry matter, over three 
tons per acre (assuming an average yield of 
twelve tons), that may be obtained from a careful 
growing and handling, and its capability of being 
cut several times, make it a most desirable crop 
when the conditions favorable for its best develop- 
ment are present. In order that these large yields 
may be secured, however, it should not be allowed 
to ripen, but cut when in the blossom stage. After 
each cutting it should be top-dressed with fertili- 
zers rich in nitrates, particularly on light soils. 
