176 



FIG CULTURE 



foul land to get rid of weeds, giving pratically the 

 same results as summer fallowing, or summer cul- 

 tivation." (U. S. Bull, 101.) 



OATS. 



Useful as a cover crop to add humus smother 

 weeds, prevent leaching and to fine the soil. It 

 withstands frosts and light freezes if not "in the 

 boot," and will recuperate when injured. The 

 period of growth is too long for winter use. 



RAPE. 



Rape resembles a turnip, or ruta-baga. Its ac- 

 tion on the soil is similar to that of buckwheat, and 

 withstands the Southern winters. It draws mois- 

 ture and fertility almost as heavily as corn, but 

 improves sod ground rapidly, and will grow upon 

 swampy lands. "Rape seed is mostly imported, 

 but can be grown in the Middle South and certain 

 localities along the Pacific Coast." (U. S. Bull. 

 164.) 



RYE. 



This plant is quite delicate when young, but 

 grows all winter in the South. If sown early in the 

 fall ripens in time for spring plowing, but slow 

 growth permits the ground to become weedy. It 

 does well on a greater variety of soils than any oth- 

 er of the common grains, and is a favorite for the 

 renovation of worn out lands. 



