AGRICULTURAL GRASSES 73 



of the value of a grass which experience has proved to be of 

 great service in this country. 



The rounded, concave tip of the leaf, together with the 

 obtuse ligule, the yellowish green of the lower sheaths, and 

 short stolons, will enable the observer to determine the 

 presence of this species in a pasture. 



Dressings of nitrate of soda discourage the growth of 

 Poa pratensis, while mineral superphosphates combined with 

 ammonia salts foster it. At Kidmore decorticated cotton cake 

 was also conducive to the growth of this grass. 



For illustration, description, and chemical analysis, see 

 5*. Edition. 



POA TRIVIALIS 



(Rough-stalked Meadow Grass, or Orcheston Grass). 



This variety differs from Poa pratensis in having narrower 

 foliage, a long pointed instead of a blunt ligule to its leaf, 

 fibrous instead of creeping roots, and slightly rough sheaths. 

 The roughness is only apparent to a sensitive touch, but is 

 readily perceived when the grass is drawn across the tongue. 



Poa trivialis was first sown in this country about 1780, 

 and in recent years it has been mistakenly recommended for 

 all purposes. On strong moist soils, where Poa trivialis is 

 quite at home, it surpasses Poa pratensis both in quantity and 

 in quality, but the favourable comparison does not extend 

 to light land liable to burn, on which the superiority of Poa 

 pratensis becomes manifest. The plant is subject to injury by 

 spring and autumn frosts, and also by severe winters. It is 

 rich in potash and phosphoric acid, and soon exhausts land 

 which is not naturally good or constantly fed. 



This grass forms a large part of the turf of valleys in 

 mountainous districts where the rainfall is considerable. It 

 thrives under trees, prospers in water-meadows and all moist 

 situations, and bears well the hoofs of stock, but it must be 



