192 
On Rape-dusf. 
generally found to be in proportion to the size of its broad leaf) ; 
it, therefore, should be our object to give it such a manure as will 
act readily, and cause it quickly to develop those leaves by which 
it may draw its carbon from the atmosphere, and become, in one 
sense of the word, independent of the soil, and out of danger from 
insects, &;c. 
Now, rape-dust is a manure which, containing a large share of 
soluble organic matter, acts quickly; it seems, therefore, especially 
adapted to assist the turnip in the earli/ stages of its growth. As, 
however, it cannot supply the earthij portion of the plant, it is 
obvious that it will succeed best upon soils which contain a suffi- 
ciency of these earthy phosphates, lime, &c., or when combined 
with bones, or some other matter containing a supply of these 
inorganic substances. 
The fact of the extensive use of rape-dust in some districts, for 
turnips, is proof enough that, under the former circumstances, 
it may be used successfully. The latter position we have fully 
proved — on several portions, and to the extent of several acres — 
during the present year. One bushel of rape-dust to three bushels 
of bones is an excellent mixture. The turnips we have so manured 
testify this at the present moment. Supplied by the rape-dust 
with ready nutriment, they grew away quickly ; and, when the 
bones began to decompose, the young plant was ready to make 
use of their phosphates.'"^ 
Much of the success of rape- dust alone for turnips depends on 
the method of application. Thus, if the seed be placed in immc' 
diate contact with the dust, the active fermentation of the latter 
will destroy the tender gerin.| In order to guard against this, 
it is better to mix the tillage with a little earth or ashes. The 
tubes should also be affixed to the drill, to convey the seed to the 
ground, so as to fall immediately after the tillage. By this means 
a thin layer of earth will protect the seed, and the young plant 
will have all the benefit of an immediate supply of food without 
danger of inj ury. 
* In an experiment (the results of which I have lately ascertained) 
with bones mixed with other manures, this mixture stands first ; the 
yield being 26 tons 15 cwt. per acre. 
t 'f'le seed of the turnip is so small, and the budding germ so tender, 
that it should never be placed in contact with any manure which under- 
goes active fermentation. In such case the whole seed speedily becomes 
decomposed. This should be particularly guarded against where guano 
is used. My own experiments last year gave me a proof of this. Mr. 
Pusev informs me that he has suffered from a similar cause: indeed the 
complaint has been anything hut an uncommon one. The abuse, how- 
ever, or rather mal-use, of an article is no argument against it. — T/ie 
Author. 
