LAND FOR ALFALFA 211 
manently in orchards, as its deep roots are lable to 
injure those of the trees. It is often able to adapt 
itself, however, to soils in which the roots cannot 
extend very deep. 
Land, and its preparation 
Alfalfa grows well on varying kinds of land, 
providing the subsoil is open and porous. The 
most favorable land is a rich, somewhat sandy 
loam, warm and friable, with a deep and loose or 
gravelly subsoil, well supplied with lime. A dense 
clay or hardpan subsoil is most unfavorable. Al|- 
though rich land is preferable, alfalfa does well on 
poor, well-drained gravelly soils if well provided 
with the mineral elements, as phosphoric acid, 
potash and lime. While the plant requires much 
water, it will not flourish where the water-level is 
too near the surface, say nearer than eighteen 
inches, or when the ground is saturated, or where, 
when flooded, the water stands more than two or 
three days. Acid lands are uncongenial. 
The field intended for alfalfa should be treated 
the season preceding so as most effectually to 
subdue all weeds and cause the sprouting and 
destruction of any weed seed in the ground. Farm- 
yard manure should preferably not be used for at 
least one year before seeding, as it favors the 
growth of weeds, : 
