CULTIVATION OF COTTON. 
89 
We may remark in this connection, that many planters, 
instead of barring off with the turning plough, employ the 
scraper — a sharp-edged implement, somewhat plough-like 
in its appearance, which cuts away the grass from the 
cotton, and leaves it standing in the midst of a smooth, 
bald ridge. The ridge, after scraping, is liable to bake 
under the influence of the sun; and as the roots of the 
cotton are now very short and tender, and require a 
pulverized soil, we believe the barring-ofF process to be 
preferable. 
The subsequent cultivation may be varied according to 
the nature of the season. The ploughs, hoes, and sweeps 
will be used as they may be foimd best adapted to the 
condition of the crop. 
The latter implement is, like the scraper, of modern 
introduction. It resembles one of the hoes of a harrow, 
flanked with wide-cutting blades or wings, forming two 
sides of a triangle, and mounted on a beam ; is capable of 
Sweeping the whole width of the row or the greater part 
of it at once, loosening the soil, and destroying weeds, 
vines, and every thing that does not require to be turned 
under and effectually buried. It is a very efiScient tool, 
and is employed with advantage, and especially in dry 
seasons, in keeping down tie vine [convolvulus, or morning 
glory), which, if not thoroughly done, is an after-source of 
great annoyance and damage. 
With favorable seasons the plant grows rapidly, more 
especially after the tap-root has penetrated deep into the 
soil. 
The first blossom is sought after with great anxiety. 
This is found at different dates in different localities, from 
the first of June to the fourth of July. The young bolls, 
surrounded by the squares or forms, appear upon the 
