218 SOILS AND PLANT LIFE 



from the standpoint of uniformity? Write reasons for 

 your answer. Which one excels in each of the other four 

 points? Give reasons in each case. Finally, which is the 

 better sample? Write your reasons carefully. 



Why is each. of the five points given regarded as im- 

 portant in judging seed oats? 



150. Harvesting the Crop. — If oats are cut with a 

 self-binder, they should be harvested just as the straw is 

 turning yellow and the leaves are drying up, at which 

 time the kernels are past the " hard dough stage." If 

 cut before this time, the kernels will become shriveled; 

 if later, the oats will shatter badly and much of the grain 

 be lost. 



If oats are to be used as hay, they should be cut while 

 the kernels are in the milk stage. 



151. Shocking and Stacking Oats. — After the oats 

 are cut, the bundles are usually set together in shocks. 

 The grain which, as stated in the preceding section, is not 

 fully mature at the time of cutting continues to ripen 

 after shocking. 



There are two general types of shocks, — the long and 

 the round. Each has its advantages and its advocates. 

 The long shocks permit a freer circulation of air and hence 

 dry out more quickly and thoroughly. This type of 

 shock is preferable if the grain is cut a little too green, or if 

 many coarse weeds are present. On the other hand, the 

 round shocks expose less surface to the elements and 

 are less easily blown down, and they, therefore, afford 

 better protection from the weather, especially if they are 

 capped. The merits of the two types of shocks probably 

 depend more upon the skill and ability of the shocker 

 than upon the shocks themselves. 



