989 FORA@GH CROPS 
the very best condition for absorbing and retaining 
moisture, as well as to remove all weeds. 
The beets should be harvested as soon as frost 
occurs. In order to preserve them for winter, 
they may be stored in the field by placing in cov- 
ered heaps from five to seven feet high, although 
the better plan is to remove after thoroughly dry 
to a root-cellar in which they are not liable to 
freeze and the temperature is not too high. 
Composition and use of mangels 
As with all root-crops, the content of dry matter 
is relatively low, usually not more than 8 to 10 per 
eent. The nutrients are highly digestible, how- 
ever, and when associated with so large an amount 
of water they possess a very high value, particu- 
larly in furnishing food in a wholesome form. 
They are extremely palatable, and when otherwise 
only dry feeds would be used, they answer a good 
purpose in keeping animals in condition, as well 
as stimulating the milk flow and the laying on of 
fat. They are very useful for cows, hogs, chickens 
and practically for all other kinds of farm stock. 
Because of their adaptability, the use of mangels 
is increasing in many parts of the country, espe- 
cially on small farms where but few animals are 
kept and where the labor is performed by members 
of the family. 
