28 



Arrhenatherum avenaceum. (Meadow oat-grass; tall oat-grass) 



This grass resembles the oat in several respects. Each spikelet 

 has but two florets. The panicle is first contracted, but after the 

 plant becomes older the inflorescence opens and becomes more 

 spreading. The root is perennial and creeping. The stems grow 

 to a height of 3 feet or more_ On account of the rapid growth of 

 this plant, and the lateness of its maturity it makes an excellent 

 pasture for fall grazing. Its composition indicates a grass ofgood 

 quality, and those farmers who have tried it speak in high terms 

 of praise concerning its agricultural value. When mixed with 

 other grasses sheep cat it with considerable relish. It is pronounc- 

 ed, by those who know, to be the best winter grass that can be ob- 

 tained. The most favorable time for sowing the seed is from Sep- 

 tember to October. Not less than two bushels per acre should b e 

 used. 



Analysis : 











Water 





14.30 



per 



cent. 



Ash 





7.23 



'< 



(< 



Fat 





2.44 



(< 



a 



Nitrogen free 



extract 



•^2.82 



(< 



n 



Crude fiber 





24.36 



(( 



a 



Albumi noids 





10.88 



a 



" (C Richardson) 

 Plate m . 



Cynodoa dactylon. (Bermuda grass*) 

 It is not necessary to describe this grass, since every one who 

 has contended with it, in and about the valued crops of corn 

 and cotton, will quite readily distinguish the plant from all other 

 grasses. It is not a native of this country, but was introduced 

 from southern Europe and tropical regions. It throws out three 

 or more slender spikes on which are arranged small sessile spike- 

 lets, each containing one flower, with a second imperfect one. The 

 plant throws out a rank growth of leaves and numerous shoots 

 from underground stems, and is very highly prized for pasturage. 

 The method of cultivation consists in cutting up the rhyzomas or 

 rootstocks, into small fragments and scattering them broadcast. It is 

 one of the few grasses that are able to withstand continued drought ; 

 it- succulent underground stem furnishes sufficient moisture and 

 nutriment to keep the plant alive, Hogs are very fond of the un- 

 derground stems, and stock of all kinds eat its leaves with avidity 



