24 BULLETIN 32, U. S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. 
A 6-acre field typical of the uplands and of the neglected and 
run-down farms of the region, worth less than $20 an acre, has been 
systematically improved and made worth not less than $100 an acre 
at an expense of less than $30 an acre. 
Improvement was accomplished by deep plowing and thorough 
cultivation of the soil, by liming the land, and by plowing under 
successive crops of rye, buckwheat, and clover to supply the needed 
humus. 
Experience with a second field indicates that profitable crops can 
be obtained by deep plowing and good cultivation, supplemented by 
the rational use of commercial fertilizers, without the initial expense 
in time and money of growing and turning under green crops. 
Improvement of land can be accomplished without the use of stable 
manure, provided the proper system is used. 
From 20 to 200 bushels of potatoes per acre have been obtained on 
these hill soils by these methods, as well as 55 bushels of oats per 
acre and good stands of clover. A rotation of oats, clover, and 
potatoes is recommended for these cheap hill lands where they are 
properly drained. Drainage is important. 
The distribution and proper utilization of the labor of both men 
and horses is a noteworthy feature of this farm. A definite system 
is followed, the men being systematically promoted, paid in cash 
each month, given a vacation with pay, and working a definite num- 
ber of hours each day. 
Success with badly depleted fields suggested a larger opportunity 
for the purchase and proper management of other run-down farms. 
One was purchased at $16.32 an acre, and under a tenant system 
was made to pay 8 per cent on the investment the first year and 32.5 
per cent the second year. 
The renovation of an old apple orchard of 30 trees was made an 
important supplementary source of income. 
The owner of a valley farm is in a position to handle contiguous 
hill lands in connection with his home farm more profitably than 
anyone else because of the smaller expense in labor and equipment 
and because the income per acre on cheap land is usually too low to 
support a family and an expensive equipment. 
Skillful marketing and close attention to the wants of a local 
market have been important factors in the success of Mr. English. 
This success is due to the application of sound business methods and 
principles. 
o 
WASHINGTON ; GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE : 1914 
