68 



ONIONS ON MUCK SOIL 



Across the fertilizer treatments, lime and manure were distributed 

 on part of the plots. The average result of this cross treatment was 

 as follows: 



It will be observed that the largest yields were identified with 

 the complete fertilizer rich in phosphorus and medium in nitrogen 

 and potash; also from the plot receiving a double application of 

 potash. Nitrogen has given very little increase on this land. Phos- 

 phoric acid and potash appear to be the elements which produce the 

 crop. It was very evident thruout each season that the phosphoric 

 acid promoted early maturity. Nitrogen seemed to prolong the 

 development of the plants so that often there was a larger proportion 

 of seconds due to immaturity at the time they were caught by frost. 

 Probably the best policy would include the use of two or three per 

 cent of nitrogen for the first few years that fresh muck is cultivated. 

 The character of the product should be carefully watched for any 

 indication that it is being excessively supplied with nitrogen thru 

 the decay of the soil, and when this decay is observed, the supply 

 of nitrogen should be reduced or eliminated. The quantity of 

 fertilizer to be used on muck soil for onions is large, and probably 

 applications of a ton or more will be thoroly justified. Lime is of 

 uncertain value, but the effect of manure is clearly evident. 



One of the most important practical phases of the management 

 of muck soil is the maintenance of a proper water supply. This 

 requires, first, thoro drainage, and it is believed that tile may often be 

 substituted for open ditches which are objectionable in many ways. 

 Second, there must be thoro surface tillage. Third, on those areas 

 which do not have a natural underground water supply, irrigation 

 should be practiced. 



A. Check 



B. Lime, 1500 lbs. CaO. 



C. Manure, 8 tons per A 



15,100 

 16,900 

 19,300 



