66 
Tlie JMcchanical Condition of the JSoil 
we cannot rely upon the germination of seeds which are un- 
covered, because we cannot regulate the supply of moisture ; 
still we see that the depth of the covering has an important 
influence on the thickness of the plant, and must shape our pro- 
ceedings accordingly. This explains the variations in the success 
attendant upon different modes of preparing for grass-seeds. 
As these seeds are usually sown with a corn-crop, the early 
preparation of the ground is carried on without regard to 
their special requirements. They are sometimes sown imme- 
diately after the corn is in the ground and the land has been 
well harrowed ; but, unless in the case of a late sowing, this 
plan is objectionable, because they then sprout and show their 
tender leaves above the ground too soon, being exposed to injury 
by the cold nights at the end of April and beginning of May ; 
also because the ground is then in too loose a condition to secure 
the seed from sinking too deeply into the soil. If the soil has 
been worked to a very fine condition and is then rolled, the seed 
may be sown without much loss, a cross-rolling being sufficient to 
cover it when sown. This extra rolling, however, in case of 
much rain, might be very prejudicial to the growth of the seed- 
corn. As a general rule, it will be far better for the grass-seeds 
to be sown after the corn is well rooted in the ground ; the soil 
will then become settled, and there will be less disposition to 
allow these small seeds to sink between the particles of the soil 
beyond the proper depth. The benefit of a slight covering in a 
great measure explains the greater thickness of the clover-plant 
when sown upon barley-land which has received extra tillage, 
and has thus been brought to a fine tilth, for the seed thus sown 
is well placed for immediate growth. 
If the surface is at all crusted over, a very light harrowing 
should first be given ; after this the seed may be sown and then 
rolled down. Should the surface be free and slightly rough, so 
as to crumble readily beneath the pressure of the foot, the seed 
may be sown without previous working and then rolled in : but 
in case the surface is judged to be too rough for this treatment, 
it must be rolled lightly, harrowed if necessary, and again rolled 
after the seeds are sown. A careful use of the roller is generally 
the best means for covering the seeds, but it must always be 
done whilst the ground is dry and works freely. Another great 
advantage gained by sowing after the corn is up, is the shelter 
and protection given to the seeds and also to the young plants. 
A moderate degree of firmness in the soil beneath the seed is 
not objectionable, as the roots are powerful in piercing the soil, 
and a sufficient degree of freedom is usually possessed by land 
sown with spring-corn. 
, Turnips and Swedes. — Various as is the practice of different 
