184 
On Rape-diir^f. 
Having now seen tlie nature, efficacy, and operation of rape- 
dust as a fertilizer, we come to consider the various methods of 
applying it. 
The importance of the question is evident. Our success in any 
matter depends not more upon the means we employ, than upon 
the manner in which we use those means. 
The customary methods of applying rape-dust, though varied 
in detail, are but two in j^rinciplc. The principle of the one is 
to spread the matters applied to the soil over the whole surface ; 
this is the broad-cast system. The principle of the other method 
is to place the seed and manure in straight rows, or drills, at a 
regular depth and at a regular distance from each other ; this is 
the drill method. 
Under the broad-cast system the rape-dust is applied as a top- 
dressing, upon the level surface before the seed is drilled, or 
upon the furrow before the grain is sown by the hand. By the 
drill method the tillage is deposited below the grain, and at the 
same time. 
There are certain other methods of applying rape-dust, 6cc. ; 
but they cannot be termed si/stems, being merely special modi- 
fications of one or both of the above^ and only used in special 
cases. 
Of the two great systems, the opinion of the writer is that the 
drill method has many and decided advantages. In saying this, 
he can claim no credit. At a time when the system has become 
part and parcel of the four-course husbandry, and in a neighbour- 
hood where it is employed so extensively, it would be impossible, 
seeing its beneficial operation, to entertain a different opinion. 
At the same time there are those to whom this sort of testimony 
is valueless. Some regard all custom as doubtful until its advan- 
tages are shown to depend on rational principles ; and others think 
no customs good but their own. To these, then, it is necessary 
to show that the advantages we claim for the drill method are as 
explicable by reason as by fact. 
The advantages for which we contend involve a saving in the 
cost, and a gain in the qnantity, of produce. 
Thus, by using rape-dust upon the broad- cast system, as a 
top-dressing, <a great portion of its nutritive gases is wasted in the 
atmosphere, owing to the rjuick decomposition which takes place. 
By spreading it over the broad surface, before the seed is drilled, 
a loss arises from the same cause; for, as the tillage is not in 
immediate proximity with the seed, a portion of the ammonia 
and carbonic acid given off during its quick fermentation is ab- 
ripe much earlier, in both cases, than that which was undressed : the 
straw, also, was not so soft, and the stubble much whiter. 
