390 
Experiments with Salt upon Mangolds. 
the produce of No. 11 was not nearly so heavy as it would other- 
wise have been. 
Again, it will be noticed that on Plots 1, 2, and 3, there were 
not so many bfighted roots as on the rest of the plots ; and on 
Plot 3, where 5 cwts. of salt were used, a better result was 
obtained than on Plot 9, dressed with 6 cwts. of salt. 
It is true on Plot No. 1 the number of blighted roots was 
small, and yet the roots weighed less than on No. 6, the second 
unsalted plot ; but it must be borne in mind that the total 
number of roots on No. 1 was less by 105 than on No. 6. The 
deficiency of plants on No. 1 fully explains the difference in the 
weight of the produce on No. 1 and No. 2. 
Notwithstanding these disturbing influences, which seldom 
can be avoided in field experiments, but which it is well clearly 
to recognise, the general tenor of all the experiments is, that salt 
had a very beneficial effect upon the crop. 
In conclusion, I may mention that on 0 experimental plots 
the weight of leaves was carefully ascertained, and found as 
follows : — 
Weight of Leaves on ^ Acre. 
Cwts. lbs. 
Plot No. 1. Nothing 5 93 
„ 2. Salt at the rate of 7 cwts. per acre . . . . 8 1 
„ 3. „ 5 „ .. .. 7 41 
„ 4. „ 3 „ .... 7 2 
„ 5. „ 1 „ .. .. 5 80 
„ 6. Nothing 5 20 
It appears clearly from these experiments that common salt 
had a very marked influence in promoting the development of 
leaves. On light, sandy soils mangolds are liable to pass too 
rapidly through all the stages of their growth, — an evil which 
results in a poor crop. 
Common salt, if 1 ain not mistaken, checks this tendency in a 
great measure, and, by keeping the tops of mangolds in a healthy 
growing condition, contributes ultimately to a larger produce of 
roots on light land. It is hardly necessary for me to say that a 
healthy and abundant development of leaves is essential to the 
formation of good roots, for it is through the medium of the 
tops that the latter assimilate organic food and gain in substance. 
12, Hanover Square, London, July, 1864. 
