DAUfT OP HONEX PLANTS. 167 



bloom in June, and lasts from three to four weeks. The blossoms 

 coming out in succession. The later variety blossoms in August and 

 yields good ^pasturage for two or three weeks. This plant is found in 

 great abundance in many parts of our country. It has become of con- 

 siderable importance as an article of commerce. The leaves are gather- 

 ed, dried and ground. It is used extensively for dyeing purposes. 



The willows and alders are very timely for bees in spring. Besides 

 these there are a number of shrubs of great local importance to the bee- 

 keeper's success, the witch hazel, hawthorn, the wild crab apple, 

 blackberry, wild cherry, the Virginia creeper, the bush honey suckle, 

 St. John worts and many others. Each bee-keeper should study well 

 the floraof his own locality and minage his bees with discretion accord- 

 ing to the expected honey flow. 



The only general advice we would give concerning the cultivation of 

 trees for honey, beyond that given on page 155, is once more to call at- 

 tention to the importance of good fruit on every farm, and the necessity 

 for shade trees for stock. Where the persimmon abounds, its peculiar 

 character of not impovershing the soil, makes it a most excellent shade 

 tree for cattle, at the same time a treasure to the bees when in bloom. 

 The locust should be planted along lanes and in spare places, because 

 of the great value of its timber for posts when cut, as well as for bees 

 whilst growing. 



PKBENNIAL PLANTS. 



First among these stand the clovers — white and alsike. White clover 

 is two well known to need any description. It should be sown among 

 other grasses for pasture land. If sown alone it takes from eight to 

 twelve pounds to the acre. It begins to yield honey about the first of 

 June and continues from four to six weeks. 



