The Book of the Farm: Detailing the Labours of the Farmer, Farm-steward, Ploughman, Shepherd, Hedger, Farm-labourer, Field-worker, and Cattle-man [5, 4 ed.]

Table of contents :
Front Cover
PRACTICE-SUMMER (continued)
Building field-ricks
Improved hay-stacking appliances
Dressing stacks
Autumn work
177
Self-binder
Stacking cereals
Carting “gaitins
Mr Duncan's rack
Methods of prevention
Adjusting the sock
Time for sowing
Sowing barley
187
218
Beginning of harvest
Disease in black currants
Size of dipper, and number of hands
Weather for dipping
Poultry in autumn
Weak hives
ledge
Black soil
Rotation and live stock
Vegetables
Gravel soil
Bush fruit
Conditions of lease
194
Shelter overdone
Seed grain
Joining dykes
Scythe
No shelter
Early methods
Wet clay-land
225
Custom in executing drainage
34
134
Cost of cutting drains

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University of Wisconsin LIBRARY .

No.

22.099

1 1

1 1 1

1

1

THE

BOOK

OF

THE

DIVISION V.

FARM

Wherefore come on, O young husbandman ! Learn the culture proper to each kind . VIRGIL.

THE

BOOK OF THE FARM DETAILING THE LABOURS OF THE

FARMER, FARM-STEWARD, PLOUGHMAN, SHEPHERD, HEDGER, FARM.LABOURER, FIELD-WORKER, AND CATTLE-MAN

BY

HENRY STEPHENS , F.R.S.E. CORRESPONDING MEMBER OF THE NATIONAL AND CENTRAL SOCIETY OF AGRICULTURE OF FRANCE ; OF THE AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY OF GALICIA ; OF THE AGRICULTURAL INSTITUTE OF GOREGORETZK IN RUSSIA ; OF THE ROYAL AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY OF SWEDEN ; OF THE ROYAL IMPROVEMENT SOCIETY OF NORWAY

FOURTH

EDITION

REVISED, AND IN GREAT PART REWRITTEN, BY

JAMES

MACDONALD

OF THE ' FARMING WORLD ' ; AUTHOR OF ' FOOD FROM THE FAR WEST ' ; JOINT AUTHOR OF 6 POLLED CATTLE,' ' HEREFORD CATTLE, ETC., ETC.

IN SIX DIVISIONS

DIVISION V.

WILLIAM

BLACKWOOD AND

EDINBURGH

AND

MDCCCXC

All Rights reserved

LONDON

SONS

CONTENTS OF DIVISION V.

PRACTICE - SUMMER (continued ). PAGE

PAGE

HAYMAKING .

Object of haymaking

I

Speedy haymaking Tedding with high wind

Weather and haymaking Varieties of hay Time for cutting

I

Tedders injuring clover -hay

IO

1

Collecting hay Cocking” hay Large and small " cocks ”

IO

2

IO IO

IO

SOT TO

Hay for seed

2

Hay for feeding Best stage for cutting

2

ftermath Tax uponthe

2

Rotation hay

II

2

Turning clover-hay

II

Process of turning

II

soil

2

Premature cutting Study the weather Hay injured by wet

2

Hot and cold rain

3 3 3

Cutting rotation hay Cutting early and late grasses Ill-suited mixtures

Clover, sainfoin, and lucerne

Preparingto cut Method of cutting

IO

Differences in methods Scotch methods

3 3

4 4 4 4

II II

Fit for coiling Collecting the hay Arranging the force

12

Coils or cocks

12

Hollow coils

12

Forming coils Pullingand topping coils

13 13 13 13 13 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 15

12 12

Well-made coils

Badly -made coils . Fork -made coils

Mowing-machine

4

Close cutting

4 5 5

Over -working

5 6

Thunderstorms and haymaking

Sharp knives Mower v. scythe

Types of mowers . All -round or side cutting Laid patches Cutting laid crops Direction to cut

Clearing swathe ends Head -ridges .

One -way cutting Loosening lumps " Making " the hay Variations in practice Grounds for variations .

Haymaking controlled by weather

Tedding Forward and backward tedding Experiments in tedding

Timothy-hay Securing wet coils Hours for coiling . Raking

7 7 7 7 7 7 7

Coiling in high wind

8

Time for field -ricking

15

Field or temporary stacks Rick “ kilns” or bosses

15

Situation of ricks

15 16

"

15

8

Hay -sledge

8 8

Loading the sledge Unloading the sledge

8 8 8 9 9 9

Othermethods of hauling

16 16

American method

16

Preparing for stacking .

17

Ground for ricks . Work with the wind Foundation for ricks b

16

778

English methods Meadow - hay Haymaking machines

Small coils

Remaking coils

CONTENTS.

vi

Building field -ricks Haymaking by stages Look to the stacks Permanent stacking

20

Premature stacking

20

Preserving partially dried hay Preserving the aroma Improved pressure

20

Utility of the system

21

Results

Earlyv. late stacking

21

Straw and hay mixed Hay -barns Hay -stacks

21

Conclusions as to Gibbs's system the Neilson sys Conclusions as

18

19

19

Rick -cloths ..

Salting and spicing hay Threshing hay . The flail

Artificial hay-drying Hot air and Neilson systems

20

Ensilage preferred

20

Reading trials

21

tem

.

22

Gibbs's hay dryer

Foundation of stacks

22

Neilson system

Bosses or flues

22

Utility of the Neilson fan

Size of stacks

22 Pressing hay

Force in building stacks High -forking by hand Process of building

23 23 24

Forking from different parts Heading stacks

24

24 25 25 25 25

Roping hay -stacks Form of stackhead

Large stacks.

Building oblong stacks Propping stacks Height of stacks

Improved hay -stacking appliances

34 34

Trial ofhay - presses Steam - power presses Horse - power presses Hand -presses

Hand -presses for old hay Highland Society trials

39 39 40 40 41 41 42 43 43

BARE FALLOW.

25

Fallowing and loss of nitrates .

25 25

Objects of bare fallow Production of nitric acid .

44 44 44 44

Rick - lifters . Defect in the system

25 Antiquity of bare fallow 26

Methods of fallowing

Horse - forks .

Rotation and bare-fallowing

45 45

Land to be fallowed

45

Working directions

27 28 28

45

Clip -fork

29

Wheat after fallow . Treatment of fallows

Elevating apparatus Hay elevator

30 30

Overworking fallow Prevailing methods .

Advantages of the horse -fork A good day's work

30

Weeds

30

Collecting weeds

Horse-fork working in sheds

30 Disposing of weeds Kentish practice 31

Types of horse - forks

Horse -forks for small farmers

Dressing stacks

31

Dung for bare fallow

Other methods

31 31 32 32

Preparing for dung . Spreading dung Drilling fallow Folding on fallows

32 32

“ Bastard ” fallow

Heating

Tramp-ricks v . cocks

32

Irish haymaking

Fifeshire practice Making the hay Stacking General notes

33 33

Judgment in making Fitness for stacking

.

Green manuring Objection to green manuring

45 45 45 46 46 46

46 46 47

47 47 47 47 47 48

HARVESTING TURNIP-SEED.

33

Over- making

33

Horse -rakes Advantage of speedy appliances

33 33 34

Hay - collectors

Collecting turnip-seed Dryingthe seed

Threshing Produce

48 48 48 48

PRACTICE- AUTUMN.

Autumn weather and field operations Study of the seasons Rewards of labour Barometer oscillations .

48 48 48 49

Wind Rain Clouds . Autumn flora .

49 49

49 50

CONTENTS. Autum folk -lore Autumn work . Harvest Weather and harvest

Magnitude of harvest -work Autumn anomalies

Field - sports . Autumn crops

Sowing crimson clover

Culture in England Seed

As a forage crop Late variety Extra late variety

White variety Harvesting red-clover seed Cuttingand drying Threshing

Sowing Italian rye -grass Sowing for forage Seed

Produce Irrigation crop

50 50

Ancient machine .

50

Boyce's reaping-machine

50 50 50 50 50 51 51 51 51 51 52 52 52 52 52

Plunket's reaping-machine Gladstone's reaping -machine Salmon's reaping-machine Scott's reaping-machine Ogle and Brown's reaping -inachine Kerr's model of a reaping-machine

Nineteenth century machines

Deanston reaper

Mann's reaping-machine First effective reaping-machine Bell's reaping-machine

66

Merits and faults of Bell's reaper

66 66

Varieties of machines Price

53

Stage forcutting

53 53 53

Potato -oats

Ripening in the sheaf : Seed grain

Sheddingor “ shaking » Barley .

Happy medium Ripening process .

Judging ripeness Degrees of ripeness Progress of ripening Harvest labour

Perfect workmanship Speed Force employed Cost of reaping Illustrations of modern machines

53

Process of reaping

54

Reaping oats

54 54

Preparing for reaping

Manual and self-delivery machines 54 Self-delivery reapers Side-delivery reapers 54 Manual v. self-delivery reapers 54

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Experiments with wheat Advantage of early cutting Loss by too early cutting

55

Cutting

55 55

Raking

55

56

Force of labour Another method

Detecting bad work

Reaping appliances

56 Manual-delivery reapers

Sickle or #hook ”

56

Form of sickle Toothed sickle

Smooth - edged sickle Sickle still used

Thraving Sheaf- gauge . Scythe

Hainault scythe Common scythe Cradle -scythe Setting ascythe

Iron scythes. Straight sned Sharpening scythes Method of scythe- reaping Speed with the scythe . Another method

The reaping-machine Historical

Arranging the force 56 Bands and binding .

56

Method of binding

56 57

Position of the band

57

Lifting broken stalks Raking

57

Drying rakings Shocking or stooking Forming stooks

58

65 66

66 66

67 67 68 68 68 68 68 68

69 70 70 70 70

70 70 71 71 71 71

72 72 72 72

73 73 73

Size of sheaves

57

57

63 63

Cost of reaping Slow progress of Bell's reaper

Draught

Beginning of harvest

63

65

American machines . Dray's Hussey machine 53 53 M -Cormick's reaping -machine 53 Modern reaping-machines

GRAIN HARVEST.

60 61 61 61 61 61 61 62 62 62

Construction Work done .

52

53

vii

74 74 74

75 75

58 58 59

Theoretical error

59 59 59 60

“ Pirling ”

76

Hooding “ Gaiting"

76

Direction of stooks

77 77

Placing the band -knots Size of stooks

60 Barley 60 60

Quick drying Small sheaves

76 77 77

viii

CONTENTS .

Wheat

Scythe unsuitable Hook

g -machines Reapin Self-binders . Time to cut wheat Sheaves for wheat Wheat stooks

Hooding “ Pros ” and “ cons” of hooding Hooding oats and barley Self-binder

General construction

Efficiency of the binder

The Hornsby binder Cutting the crop Elevating

Elevator and platform rolls . Conveyor- roll

77

Forking

92

77 77 77 77 78

Injury to young grass Order in forking 13sheaves Carting “ gaitins Loading a cart Roping loaded carts

92 93 93 94

78 78 78

78 79 79 79 79 79 79 80 80 80

Needle . The knotter .

Process of stack -building

96

96

Trimming stacks

96

Form of stack

96

Height of stack

97 97

Eave

97 97

Method

83

Round tops

Throwing rope-coils

Raking

83 83 84

Size of sheaves

84

At work

Speed Other binders

Progress of the binder

Working the binder Speed Hands required .

Cost of cutting with binder and reaper Saving in labour : Saving in crop

Examples of cost An Oxford example

Explanations Stacking cereals Time for drying Judging of dryness Weather and drying Sprouting

84 84 84 84 85 85 85

85

3

97

Forming the apex Roping stacks Lozenge roping Number of ropes

Finishing stacks

100

100 100

Injury from heating

100 100

Symptoms of heating Oats

IOO

IOI

Wheat IOI

Partial heating

.

Propping stacks

IOI IOI

Common boss

86

Prismatic boss

86

Other methods

.

88 88

Hot - air drying Neilson system Drying racks Richmond's rack

89 90

Construction

Winding straw -ropes Thatching

90 91 91 92

Materialfor thatch

92

Drawn straw 92

102

.

Harvest forks

Testing the rack Advantages of the rack Cost of the rack

Removing the rack Utility of the rack The rack in dry seasons

Capacity of the rack

IOI

102

Measuring heatin stacks Improved ventilator 87 Stacking in wet weather . Small stacksor “ ricklings ” 87 86 86

IOI

IOI

Stack ventilators

Field stacks .

Thatch -making machine

100

Remedy

Artificial drying

Straw for ropes

99 99 99

Cutting thatch

88

Stack -ropes Straw -rope making

98

An English custom

88

Care of ropes

97 97

Tying ropes ;

Improved harvest cart . Fa wagg Cart- ropes

97 97 97

Stack - heating . 84 Barley

86

Process of stacking , Temporary stacking or “ rickling

on

95

Size of stack Second forker

Another method of roping

Delivery of sheaf .

rm

95 95

Foundation for stacks .

80 81 81 81 82 82 82

Cart frames . Harvest cart

94 94 94

Topping stacks 80 Process of thatching

Binding

Advantages of "rickling Preparing for stacking

94

Hours of carting Feeding horses in the field Commencing stack -building . Arranging a stackyard .

102 .

102 IO2

IO2

102 102

102

102

103 103 104 104 104 104 104

105 105

CONTENTS.

Filling the rack .

ix

Preparing barrels.

Length of stubble

105 105 105 105 105

Proportion of grain tostraw

105

Disease

Preventing bird injury Mr Duncan's rack General notes .

Proportion of crop and roots

106

Roots of hay

106 106 107 107 107 107 108 109 109

Total weight of growth Boussingault's experiments Number of grains Weeds and harvest work

Tidy stackyards Reaping beans, peas, and tares Stacking peas and beans . Peas Beans

109 109

Thatching peas and beans

buckwheat . Reaping Cut

.

ting Drying

Harvestingthe sunflower Produce .

Birds destructive to corn crops Greenfinch Yellow -hammer

Seed - bunting

ΠΟ

IIO

Chaffinch

III

House-sparrow

II2

III

Pheasant

112

Wood - pigeon

II2

Poisoning birds Gunpowder . Other methods

Prevention, not extermination Poultry injuring crops

Small plough

.

Potatoes more difficult to preserve Field pits Conical pit Covering pits

114

Final covering

114 114 114 114 114 115

Shaws as thatch

Seed pits Storing wet potatoes Frosted potatoes

I21 I21

I21

I21 I 22

I22

I 22 I 22

123 123 123 124 124 124 124 124 124 125 125

126

SOWING CEREALS IN AUTUMN. Fallow wheat

Rats Mice

115

126 126

Ploughing for wheat Grubbing for wheat Advantages of grubbing

126

Pickling and sowing

126 126 127 127 127 127

Water- courses

127 127

116

Harrowing : Frost throwing out plants

116 116

Rolling Wheat after beans

117

Wheat after potatoes

127 128 128

New or old seed

.

Time for sowing Variety to sow

RAISING POTATOES.

Symptoms of ripeness

.

Potato -separator

115 115 115

A phenomenal season Methods of potato -raising Diggingearly potatoes. Raising by thegraip Speed of digging . Barrels for early potatoes

121

122 .

Ventilating pits Heating

I 20

I 22 122

Improved digger best Storing potatoes Supplies of early potatoes

113 113 113 114

I 20 I 20

I21

Plough digging Potato -plough Digging bydrill-ploughs

115

Animals destroying crops Ground game

I 20

Force of horses

Sowing wheat .

Prevention

.

Diseased tubers

Harrowing .

III

Destroying sparrows

Harrows following digger Collecting carts

Forking after ploughs

Linnet .

Birds devouring insects Methods of prevention Scaring birds

Arranging the gatherers

IIO

III

Partridge

Force of gatherers

III

Corn - bunting Skylark

Crows .

Speed :

Preparing for the digger

Weather and digging

IIO .

Potato -digger

IIO

110

Sunflower oii

I 20

Small potatoes

IIO

109

Feeding properties

Process of digging One-way digging

Handling barrels Speedy marketing

Adjusting the digger Depth of digging: Adjusting the sock Adjusting force of labour Second harrowing,

109 109

109

Produce

Tubers free from earth .

117 117 117 117 117 117 118 118 118 118 118 118 119 119 119

Filling barrels

116 116 116

127

CONTENTS.

X

Disease in black currants

136

Gooseberries

136

Wheat after grass .

128 128

Manuring wheat

128 | Orchards .

Firm seed-bed for wheat

Sowing barley . Barley as a forage crop Sowing rye

Rye for forage Green rye as manure

Sowing peas

128

Flowers

129

Bulbs

129 129 129

130

German practice Sowing varieties of corn together

Mixed flour preferred

Increased yield from mixed va rieties

130 130 130

Legumes and cereals Mixed oats

131

Meslin .

LIVE STOCK IN AUTUMN.

Cattle in autumn

138 138

Food and shelter .

Fattening stock Housing fattening cattle

138

.

138 138 138 139

House -feeding 130 130 130 130

Irregular ripening

137 137 137

Forage crops for cattle Dairy cows

.

Store cattle .

139 139 139 139 139 139 139 139 139 140 140 140 140

Exposing cattle

Sheep in autumn

Bathing, smearing, dipping Object of dressing

PLANTING POTATOES.

Fly and scab Former customs

Autumn planting unsuitable

131

Method of autumn planting

131 Bathing

Seed

132 132

Water- channels

Utensils Method Keds

.

Bathing for scab

SUBSIDIARY FARM CROPS.

Smearing Fruit, vegetables, and flowers .

Dairying and market -gardening Vegetables Cabbages .

132

Smearing reviving

140

Smearing clean and dirty sheep . 133 Dipping 132

Catching -pen

141 141 141 141 141 142 142 142 142 143 143 144 144 145

Process ofdipping

145

Plans of bath Cost of bath .

146

.

133

Culture

133

Second growth Autumn planting

133 133

Process

Savoys

133

Greens, cauliflowers, &c. Carrots, parsnips, and beet Storing carrots

133

Concrete bath Situation

134

Depth of bath

Emptying the bath The dripper

Time of storing

134 134 134

Pulling

134

Carrot - leaves

134 1 34 134

Liability to rot

Growing and heating in pits Carrot-pits

.

Construction ofdipping-bath Wood'sswimming -bath number of hands Size of dipper, and

Makingthe concrete Finishing the bath

145

Onions

134

Leeks Manuring

135 135

Length of bath

135

Tossing sheep into bath

146

135

Plunge-bath

146 146

Culture

Turnips for table

use

Turnip -tops . Beans and peas Fruit

Strawberries

Irregular produce Planting The fruit Price

.

Duration of plants Labour and soil Bush fruit

Cost of planting Catch -cropping

135 135 135 135

136 136 136

Stone and wood baths .

Dipping mixtures Non - poisonous dips

Composition of non - poisonous dips Poisonous dips

Home-made dips . Objections to home -made dips

136 136

A safe method Stirring A good mixture

136 136

Quantity of arsenic Mixing poisonous and non -poison

136 136

ous dips

Time for dipping

146 146

147 147 147 147 147 147 147 147

148

148 148

xi

CONTENTS .

Weather for dipping

148

Preserving eggs

156

Dressing for scab

148

Oil in dips

148

Preserving with lime Preserving with salt Packing eggs

157 157 157

.

Tupping season

Treatment of tups

149 149 149 149 149 149 149 149 150

Time for tupping ,

150

Flushing ewes Mating Number of ewes to each ram

Age of tups for using . Age of ewes for breeding Service marks

Changing tups

Ram -breeding on hill-farms Selecting and mating ewes Selecting ram lambs Intermixing blood

150

Other methods

157

Eggs for preserving

157 158 158

Rearing turkeys Geese Ducks

158

.

Pigeons

158

Specific gravity of eggs

158

Nutrition in an egg

158 158 159 159

Fancy prices for poultry

Animals destructive of poultry

150

The fox

Horses in autumn

150 150 150

Shoeing

150

Wild cats easels Rats Mice

Faulty shoeing Improvement in shoeing

151

Well-fed cats the best hunters

151

Shoeing not always necessary

151

Rooks Carrion - crow

159 159 159 160 160 160 160

Object of shoeing .

Magpies

160

Sole

151 151 151

Frog Functions of parts

152

Bee-keeping as a farm industry

152 152

Clover for bees

Bees v, shorthorns

.

The hoof

.

BEE -KEEPING ,

152

Fore and hind feet

Hoof growing Principles of shoeing Weight of shoes

152

Produce of hives

152

Form of shoes

152

Commencing Improvedpractice Cheap and improved appliances

Process of shoeing

152

Have the foot level

153

Fitting the shoe

153

Nails

153

Rasping Evils of shoeing Calkings Charlier method Fitting the Charlier shoe

153 153 153 153 154

Shoeing for ice

154

Roughing

154 154

Frost -nails Studs

Marketing honey Bee information Knowledge necessary

Principles of bee-keeping know le dge

Hives

162 162

Appliances for special conditions

163

Study surroundings Caution in practice . Obtaining stocks . “ Bee-fever "

154 Appliances 154

Hat- veil

154

Smoker

Hatching in autumn

154

Hatching periods Stray hatching . Preventing clucking

154 154

Hives Sections Crates .

155

Comb foundations

Humane methods

155 155

Poultry in autumn Management of fowls

Selecting winter layers Moulting

Prevailing laying period Non -sitters Nests

Collecting eggs Nest-egg

Weightof eggs Care of laying hens Shell-less eggs Individuality of eggs

Other appliances .

163 163 163 163 163 163 163 163 164 164 164 164

Honey extractor

164

155 Management - Preliminary

164 164 164 164 164

155 155

Driving bees

155

Another plan

156

Rapid increase of stocks

156

Purchasing swarms Collecting driven bees

156

New swarnis

156 Wintering .

.

161 161 161 161 161 161 162 162 162 162

156

Secret of success

156

Preparing for winter

165 165 165 165 165

CONTENTS.

xii Weak hives

165

Bees not shut in

165

Experiments Spring treatment Breeding resumed Supplementing the winter food

165

Liquid food .

166 166 166 166

Stimulating stocks

166

Continuous treatment Summer treatment

Working for honey Working for increase of stocks Extracted or comb honey The writer's practice .

Controlling swarming Securing well-ripened honey Produce

Autumn management Heather honey After honey harvest

Bees plundering Food for bees

Liquid food for bees Sugar -cake for bees in winter Spring food

REALISATION. Physical geography of farms Looking for a farm

176 176 176 176 176 176

Diversity of farms and farming Hill-farming Configuration of hill-farms

166

Geology of hill - farms Intermediate elevations

166

Cattle and sheep mixed orseparate

166

Features of intermediate farms

166

Arable and pastoral farming com

167 167 167 167

bined

177

Exposure

177

Planting for shelter

177 177 177

Arable farms

Alluvial deposits . 167 167 Conditions regulating rent 167 | Climate 168 168 168 168 168 168

178 178 178 178 178

What constitutes climate The zones

Temperature and latitude

Temperature and configuration of earth's surface .

178

Mean and actual temperatures Temperature of wheat ripening Duration of vegetation and tem .

.

Plant growth and temperature Range of temperature for crops

Virgin soils

168

Object of rotation

168

“ Reasons” for rotation

169

Ingredients removed by different crops 169

Temperature of soil and atmos phere

Drainage and soil temperature

.

170

Evaporation Evaporation from water and earth Elevation and temperature . Perpetual snow -line

Leguminous crop and soil nitrogen

170

Mountains and climatic variations

Period of growth Accumulation of nitrogen Loss and conservation of nitrogen

170

Weeds

171

Elevation and local climate .

171 172 172 172 172 172 172

Other conditions affecting local

Grass and soil nitrogen

169 169

Humus

“ Crop sickness ? Rotation and live stock

Local circumstances Soil and rotation Climate and rotation

Rotation and outlet for produce

171 171

179 179 180 180 180

perature ROTATION OF CROPS.

Range of roots .

177 177 177

Climate and plant distribution Pulsations of temperature

Local climate

.

.

climate

181 181 181 181 181 182 182 182

183 183 183 183

Desirable and undesirable situa tions

Variations of local climate Measuring altitude

184 184 184

Local climate and land value

184

173

Daily range of temperature Rainfall

Old three - field rotation Infield and outfield

173 173 173

184 184

Wind

185

Modern three -years' course

173

Mountain -ranges and temperature Forests and temperature

Norfolk four-course

173

Variations of the four-course Five-years' course Six -years' course

174 174 174 174 175

185 185 185 185

Rotation and labour Grass and rotation

Sample rotations

Varieties of six-years' course

Seven -years' course General rules

.

Food -supply Distributing labour

175

175 175

Judging land

Examining a known farm Examining an unknown farm

185

Local knowledge necessary

185

Etiquette of farm -seeking Examining soil and subsoil

186 186 186 186 186

Variety of soils on a farm Characteristics of soils Clay soils

CONTENTS.

Light soil

186 187

Black soil

xiii

Compensation for improvements Entering a farm

187

Scotch custom

Peaty soils

187 187 187

Whitsunday entry Martinmas entry . English custom

Boggy soils .

187

Candlemas entry .

Sandy soil

187 187 187

Steelbow

Gravel soil

.

Tenacious clay Alluvial soils

Method of soil inspection

.

Character of good andbadsoils

Proportion of good and bad soil

.

Succeeding good and bad farmers Uncultivated soil Desirable farms

188 188 188 188 188 188

Estimating rent Methods of estimating rent

ments

190

190 191

191 191 191

191 191

Fair conditions

194

Landowners “ asking ” rent . English custom Conditions of lease

Adventurous offerers

Owner's rights reserved Rent-day

194 194 194

Stamping the lease

195

Game reservations

Conditions of cropping

Overlapping of outgoing and in coming tenant

200

201

Care in drafting conditions .

Objections to " offering ” for farms

200

Selling way-going crop.

Repairs and renewals 189 Adjusting farm labour Good and bad management 190 190 Valuing sheep stocks

192 192 192 193 193 193 193 193

Considering offers

Valuing crops

Way -going crops

200

191

Offering for a farm . Ill-appointed farms Essential repairs . Executing permanent improve

Disadvantage of the selling system

199 199 199 199 199 199 199

201

Rent and land value

.

198 199

Fences and houses

189

Covenanted ” rent

198

Immediate threshing

Term of tenancy . Produce -rent Sliding scale Mixed rents Interest, profit, and rent Fixed money -rents Advantages of a fixed money - rent

Deductions fordeficient appoint ments and bad condition :

198

201

201

202

Excessive valuations for sheep

202

Stocking a farm Capital per acre

Insurance against fire and disease Fire-extinguishers Insuring crops

202 .

.

205 205 205 205

Live stock insurance Cow-clubs

204 204

.

Mutual insuranceagainst disease A former effort

205

Insurance society Objects

Raising funds

Compensation Stamping out " pleuro Division of funds

Reducing premiums Tuberculosis

Lesson taught Rhins ofGalloway Cattle Insurance Company, Limited .

206 206 206 207 207 207 207 207 207 207

208

ENCLOSURE AND SHELTER.

195 Ring -fences

210

210

Injurious restrictions

195

Divisional fences

Freedom of cropping Good husbandry :

195

Straight fences

210

195

Shelter from fences .

210

Reasonable restrictions

195

Serpentine fences Shape of fields. Straightening fields .

211

Adapting conditions to different farms

.

Successive corn crops

Disposal of produce Manuring

Leaving the farm in rotation Weed -cleaning

195

211

21I

196 Short ridges wasting time 196 Anomalies

211

196 Wayfares and fences

212

197

Size of fields

2II

212

.

197 | Small fields

212

197

Large fields

212

Penal clauses Removal

198

Convenient fields

198 Divisions of a large farm

212

Subletting

198 ) Number of fields

212

Pastoral farms

Irish customs Feudal customs

Land burdens .

.

.

.

.

198 Grass paddocks 198

Access to water

198 | Fencing pastoral farms

212

212 .

.

213 213

l

CONTENTS .

xiv Shelter overdone

Waste of ground by fences Economical fencing . Fencing for shelter

Shelter from wall and plantation Shelter from plantation Plantations beautifying the country Fencing in upland districts Shelter on upland farms . .

.

213 213 213 214 215

Weeding hedges Old men for weeding Timely weeding Toolsfor weeding

215

.

Permanent fences

Turf fence

215

.

Planting and rearing hedges

213 213

.

215 215

Planting thorn hedges

215

Time for planting

215 215

Wire fences .

.

Hawthorn seed

Hawthorn an ancient fence . Other hedge plants Holly hedges Care of hedges Whin hedges Raising whin hedge Trimming whin fence . Building dry-stone walls . Badly built dykes

227 227 227 228 228 228

228 228 229 229 229 229 230 230 230 230 230

Preparingthe ground Railway fences

215

Trench - planting

216

Toolsfor planting Hawthorn plant ·

216

Stones to be used

216 216

Dimensions of dyke

231

Double and single faced dykes

231 231 231 231 231 231

Transplanting thorns Hedge-planters

217 217 217 217 218

Surveying the ground

Keeping the line straight Beginning operations Forming the trench Laying the plants

218

Earthing the plants

218

Old system

218

:

Prevention from damp Forming right angles Forming curves Planting along a water-course

218 218

.

.

Weeds .

Trees and hedges . Thorn hedges around plantations Growth ofthe hedge

218 219 219 219 219

Cost of dykes

Toolsfordyke-building Dry weather for dyke-building Preparing foundation Providing stones . Carryingstones Lining carts for stones . Frame for dykes . Process of building

231 232

Art in building Thorough -bands Levelling the dyke- top

232 233

Covers .

233 233 233 233

Coping

Building in stretches

231

232

233

Pruning

220

Gaps indykes Dykes as fences

Form of hedge

220

Supplementing dykes for sheep

233

Hedges injured by snow Cutting down hedges

220

234

220

Wire over dykes Joining dykes

Untrimmed thorns

221

Watering -pools

Trimming old hedges . Cutting down andbreasting over Mode of breasting over Mode of cutting down .

220

221

Shelter

234

221

Curves in dykes Repairing dykes

221

Utility of dykes

235

Sunk fence

235 235

221

Cutting down an old hedge . Mismanagement of hedges Up and down strokes in cutting Plashing Method of plashing Plashing in England Scouring ditches Repairing hedge-banks Filling gaps .

222

223 223

223 223

224

Laying young twigs Exposing hedge-roots . Protecting young hedges

224 224 225 225 225 226 226

Deadhedge

226

Wire field -fences

Straining-posts Iron strainers

Winding- pillars Intermediate posts Charring posts Iron standards Varieties of wire Barb -wire

Barb-wire for sheep Horses .

Standard for barb -wire Number of wires .

Erecting wire fences

Duration ofa dead-hedge

226

Straining wire

Stake-and-rice fence

226

Shelter from stake -and -rice fence

227 227

Straightening wire Knotting wire

Charring stakes

234 234 234

221

Breasting bank -and-ditch hedges .

Planting young quicks

233

Durability of wire fences

235

235 236

236 237 237 237 237

238

238 238 239 239 239 239 239 239 240 1

CONTENTS. No shelter .

XV

240 | Drainage conducive to health .

Varieties of wire fences

240

255 255 255

Insect attacks

241 Natural Drainagedrainag and economicalmanuring e

Iron and wire fence Horse and cattle wire fence .

241 241

“ Corrimony ” fence

Construction of “ Corrimony fence Cost of “ Corrimony ” fence :

23

241 242 242 242 242 243

Iron hurdles

Folding hurdle Ornamental wire fencing .

255

Drainage and irrigation

256

Causes of wetness in land

Determining necessity for drainage .

256 256 256

Time for drainage

257

257 257 257

First step in drainage

Deficiency of common gates .

246

Skilled labour . Outfalls Outfalls from hollows Subterranean outfalls Outfalls in limestone districts Falls in outlets

Iron gates Angle- iron gate

247

Scouring outlets

Gate for farmyard

247 247

Examining soil for drainage Draining springs

Wickets

247

Drainage varying with soil

259 259

Fence steps

Hanging field -gates

248 248

Depth of drains Depth to vary with the soil.

259 259

Fastening field -gates

248

Depth for free soils

Painting gates Wire gates Gate -posts . Preserving gate - posts

248

Depth for clay soils

248

Depth for peaty soils

248

Depth for porous soil

248

Root depth

Malleable iron fence

Field -gates

243

Construction

243

.

258 258 258

258 258

259 259 .

.

259 259 260

Minimum and common depth of drains

DRAINING LAND.

248 249 249

Antiquity of land drainage Early methods “ Essex ” system “ Deanston ” system

249 249

Parkes's system

Characteristics of “ Deanston "

sys

tem

249

Deep drainsand capillary attrac tion . Depth of main drains Graduating depth in flat land Distance between drains .

Nature of the land and depth of drains Anestablished rule

Characteristics of Parkes's system

249

Drains in furrows

Conflicting opinions Loans for draining . Extension of drainage

250

Preliminary surveying

250 250 250 251

Object of drainage

Soils retaining water Evaporation and loss of heat

251 251 251 251 252 253 253

Evaporation lessened by drainage Drainage and soil temperature Drainage accelerating harvest . Rain -water evaporated

Fertility from rain -water . Salt from rain -water

Nitrogen and sulphuric acid from rain -water

Course of main drain Outfalls

Sub-mains Fall for mains Inclination of mains Direction of main drains Junction of minor and main drains

Drainage materials . Old English drain

260 260 260 260

265 260 261 261

261 261 261

262 262

262 262

262

Stone drains

263 263 263

Peat drains

Tile drains

Ventilation of the soil

253

Drainage and nitrification Lowering water-level Drainage mitigating drought Drainage increasing produce Wet clay-land Drained clay-land Drainage and root cultivation .

253

Advantages of cylindrical pipe Collar

254 254

Cost of pipes

254

Size of pipes to be used

Drainage improving pasture

260

Plug drains .

Carbonic acid and oxygen

.

260 260

Wedge -and -shoulder drains .

253 253

Drainage and autumn -sown crops Drainage facilitating tillage

260

edpipes

Selecting pipes

264

264 264 265 265

255

Conditions regulating size of pipes

265

255

Strain on drain -pipes

266

255

Smallpipes objectionable

255

Prevailing sizes

267 267

255

Proportions of different-sized pipes

267

255

Pipes for mains

267

xvi

Number of pipes per acre Custom in executing drainage . Drainage by contract

Specifications Men for drainage work Superintending drainage work Execution of drainage

CONTENTS. 267 268 268

Draining-machines

269

“ Mole ” -draining

269

Keeping drains in order

270

Causes of obstruction

270

Width of drain

270 270

270

American method

271 271 271 272 274

Cost of cutting drains

274

Quantity of earth removed

Examples of cost . Laying the pipes Pipe-laying iron Faulty pipes not to be used . Junction pipes

Drains chart Cost of draining per acre

268

Drainage plough

Drains in hard gravelly soil . Removing and avoiding boulders Drains falling in . Placing the dug -out soil Inspecting drain -work . Testing levelness of drains

Filling drains .

274 274 275

Silt and compounds of iron

Obstruction by iron compounds Preventive measures Cesspools Flushing

Symptoms of blocking . Clearing choked pipes Clearing -rods

Reopening drains . Endless - chain system of clear

276 276 276 277 277 277 277 277 277 277

278 278 278

278

278

ing

275

Obstruction of the pipes by the roots of trees Meansofprevention Reme

275

Derangement of drains by displace

275

276 276

dy

Important details .

275

Quifall pipes

276 Re-draining land

ment of the pipes

279 280 280 280 280

LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS IN DIVISION V.

ANIMAL PORTRAITS. PLATE

6

DRAUGAT HORSE ( 1840)

.

WEST HIGHLAND COW AND CALF

20

KERRY AND DEXTER COWS

21

.

SHROPSHIRE RAM BORDER LEICESTER RAM

27 33

BLACK SOW AND SMALL WHITE BOAR

38

GENERAL ILLUSTRATIONS . SUMMER-continued.. FIG .

PAGE

457. Reaper knife-sharpener 458. Howard's mower 459. The “Munster

479. Hay - collector .

5

480. Mode of erecting a rick -cloth over a

mower

464. The " Taunton ” haymaker 465. The “ Acme ” haymaker . 466. Hand hay - fork

467. 468. 469. 470. 471.

Hay-shed Hay-waggon Hay hand -rake Wallace's hay -sledge, empty Wallace's hay -sledge, in the act of loading

472. Wallace's hay -sledge, with load 473. Pollock's hay-sledge 474. Horse pitch -fork 475. Wallace's horse hay -fork 476. The “ Star " horse -rake 477. Howard's horse - rake 478. The “ Stamford " horse -rake

.

35

481. Threshing rye-grass seed in the field , either in sheaf or in bulk

7

462. “ Caledonian Buckeye ” reaper and

463. Howard's haymaker

35

hay-stack when being built

mower

460. The “ Victor ” mower 461. The “ Albion " mower

PAGE

FIG .

4

.

482. Hand -flail

7 9 9 9 II

483. 484. 485. 486. 487.

Steam -power hay and straw press Horse -power hay- press Bamber's hay-press Barford & Perkins's hay - press Turnbull's hay -press

36 37 40 41 42 42

43

23

of ripening in a stalk of 488. Progress oats

24

489. Toothed sickle

26

490. Large smooth - edged sickle 491. Sheaf-gauge

55 56 57 57

26

492. Reaping with the Hainault scythe

58

21

27 | 493. Cradle -scythe for reaping 27 494. Common reaping-scythe . 28 495. Mowing corn with the scythe . 29

496. Bell's reaping-machine

58 59 60 64

34 497. Dray’s Hussey reaping -machine in 34

66

34 498. M'Cormick's reaping-machine :

67

xviii

ILLUSTRATIONS IN DIVISION V. 1

499. Harrison and M'Gregor's self-raking 500. Howard's self-delivery reaper . 501. Samuelson's back -delivery reaper 502. Wood's self-delivery reaper 503. Corn -band ready

555. Dipping-bath .

.

68 556. Horse's foot in the natural state

reaper

69 .

69

70

receive the sheaf

557. Shelter afforded by a low wall against a cutting blast 558. Hand-pick

73559. Ditcher's shovel

504. Hand stubble-rake .

74

505. Ordinary stook of wheat 506. Barley or oat stook hooded 507. Gaitin of oats

76 | 561. Bad effect of weeds on thorns 76 562. Switching -bill

508. Finger arrangement 509. Conveyor-roll

563. Triangular form of thorn hedge

80

564. Breasting -knife 565. Hedger's axe . d thorn hedge on bank and 566. Breaste dit

81 81

514. Half turn

81 82

515. Whole turn, jaws open and string entering

82

516. Jaws closed on string ; the string. knife then cuts the ends, and the lever draws the string off, com

pleting the knot 517. Completed knot 518. Knot tied by the Hornsby binder

82 82

ch .

220 221 221

222

568. 569. 570. 571.

bank, and water- tabling a ditch . Dead -hedge of thorns Stake-and -rice fence Common wooden paling . Hedge -spade .

.

224

226 226 227 228

572. Dutch hoe 573. Hedge weed -hook

228

574. Building a dry -stone dyke

232

228

575. Increasing the height of a dry -stone dyke

234

82 576. Four watering-pools formed by two

519. Hornsby binder at work. 520, Howard's binder 521. Bisset's binder

83

dykes crossing

.

234

83 577. One watering pool common to four 84

522. Corn and hay cart tops or frame 523. Transverse section of the tops or

fields .

234

87 578. Clump of trees within the meeting of four dykes

234

87 579. Straining-post, with sole and stay 88 underground 89 580. Straining-post, with planks under ground 90 581. Straining-post, with standard and

frame

524. Common corn and hay cart 525. Farm waggon 526. Coiled -up cart-rope 527. Old throw -crook 528. Best throw -crook

529. Makinga straw -rope with a throw : crook .

584. Wrought-iron standards:

92 93 95

585. Barb -wire 586. Standard for barb -wire 587. Wire- strainer

534. Building a stack of corn .

95

588. Wire-straightener

535. Stack -trimmer

96

589. Wire-knotting tools

98

590. Iron and wire fence 591. Section of bulb -angle iron 592. Horse and cattle fence

99

593. “ Corrimony ” fence

531. Bunch of drawn straw

532. Thatch -making machine 533. Making a stool for a corn -stack

536. Lozenge mode of roping the covering of acorn -stack

537. Net-mesh mode of roping the cover ing of a corn -stack

538. Border mode of roping the covering of a corn -stack 539. Pyramidal boss and trestle 540. Prismatic boss

99 IOI .

542. Richmond's corn -rack

.

543. Richmond's corn - rack - section

.

544. Potato - graip

102

103 104 116

545. Powell Brothers& Whittaker's pota:

595. Iron hurdle on wheels 596. Wicket for hurdle -fence .

236

236 237

238 238

.

.

.

.

.

594. Iron hurdle IOI

235

236

stay above ground 582. Wrought-iron straining-post 583. Winding-pillar

91 91

530. Coil of straw -rope :

239 239 239 239 240 240 240

241 241

.

242 242

597. Folding hurdle 598. Unclim bable hurdle

243 243 244 244 244

599. Light ornamental hurdle 600. Iron railing and wicket 601. Malleable - iron fence

602. Rectangular frame with diagonal

.

118

546. Jack's potato -digger

.

118

547. Jack's farm -cart

to -digger

.

81 567. Plashing and laying an old hedge on

513. Quarter turn, showing position of string on top of jaw .

541. Taylor's stack ventilator

214 216 216 217 219 220

77

80

510. Needle 511. Knotter . 512. String laid across knotter

560. Thorn plant

145 151

strut

244

.

119

548. Potato -raiser attached to a plough .

I 22

245 603. Strong field -gate 245 604. Common wooden field -gate 605. Iron field -gate with iron posts and

549. Conical and prismatic potato -pits 550. Potato -separator

123 125

606. Wrought-iron field -gate .

.

551. Iron harrows .

552. Bath -stool for sheep 553. Bath -jug 554. Bathing sheep

126

stay

.

140

607. Angle-iron field -gate 608. Gate for farmyard .

.

140

609. Field -wicket :

.

141

610. Turnstile

.

.

.

.

245 245 246 246 246 247

ILLUSTRATIONS IN DIVISION V. 611. Fence steps 652. Drain -shovel, square pattern . 612. Water - table in drained and un 247 653. Positions of planks and props

272

in a

deep drainto prevent earth fall. 254 ing in 256 258654. Drain gauge

drained land

613. Cause of wetness in land 614. Water-level test -holes 615. Inclination of drains and strata

261 262

616-619. Wedge-and - shoulder drains 620. 66Surface -turf cut to shape 621 . Plug " draining 622-626. Stone drains 627-629. Peat drains

xix

.

655. Showing the line of pipes truly laid

262

with regular fall, and pipes im properly laid on uneven bot

263

tom

263 656. Challoner's level . Giving a fall of 263 4 inch to the yard 263 657. Levelling -staff, or boning -rod, for

630. Special tool for cutting peat drains 631-636. Tile drains 637. Longitudinal sections

264

264

273 273

testing the uniform fall in drains 658. Showing use of levelling -staff .

638-640. Sections of cylindrical pipe 264 659. American method of regulating fall in drains 264 641. Drain with cylindrical pipe 660. Pipe-laying iron 642. Longitudinal sections of collared

273 273

273 274

.

pipes, A and B .

643. Ordinary digging spade 644. Draining.plough

264 270 270

645. Divisions of trench .

270

646. Clay -cutter, hollow or circular pat tern

.

647. Clay -cutter, socket pattern 648. Cast-steel clay spade

649. Drain-scoop to pull, square pattern 650. Drain -scoop to pull 651. Drain -scoop to push

661. Drain cesspool 662. Drain -clearing rods 278 663. Section and plan of drain in process of being cleaned , showing arrange ments

271 271 271 271 272

274 275 277

664. Windlass for chain cleaning drains

279 279

665. Upright for lower end of drain, with runners

280

666. Section of drain with pipes laid in cinders

272 | 667. Displacement of pipes in a drain

280 280

1

1

基

1

1

.

1 .

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DRRS AUE GHT HO

770 ser Lands

PLATE VI

.

1

1

3

!

6

(Fnrom Steell's Gourlay Agricultural Highland ,iSociety's Painting the .)and Hall

OF ASQ BY BRED PROPERTY THE ND C D E .,MʻLAREN ORRYCHRONE ONALD ALLANDER

CALE AND COW HIGHLAND .VEST

PLATE 20

.

1

.

i

1

}

1

K EW RRA RY CO “,". LO F THE PROPERTY OF MAR TIN JOH N TON ESQ .,SUT D YSO WO ODNS

ITTIIN

ER -“DE K ER RY CO WXT ,”. RI I SI NE

PLATE 21

11 1

1

:

his

ESQ BEACH JOSEPH BY BRED .T B HATTONS ,)S TAFFORDSHIRE REWOOD HE

SHROPSHIRE RAM JUBILEE ,“R ” OYAL3702

PLATE 27

1

1 1

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1

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USHLLIAMSON

jolie

il

COCKBURNSPAT . H

BORDER LEICESTER . RAM

KWA PLATE

PROPERTY EARL DALHOUSIE OF C P ARNOUSTIE ANMURE BRED A ND MESSRS THE BY O LDHAMSTOCKS ,CLARK MAINS

33

1

1 I

1

1

1

1

1

PLATE

33

BLACK Sow . BRED BY JOSEPH A. SMITH , ESQ. , RISE HALL, AKENHAM , IPSWICH .

Othy

SMALL THE PROPERTY OF HER MAJESTY THE

WHITE

BOAR .

EN , AND BRED BY THE RIGHT HO

TORTWORTH COURT , FALFIELD , GLOUCESTERSHIRE .

D MORETON ,

1

1

THE

OF THE BOOK OF

FARM.

HAYMAKING. The converting of fresh grasses and not without limitation. By the too in clovers into hay by the drying influ- dustrious “ making ” of hay, under clear

ences of sun and wind isan operation of scorching sunshine, the quality of the food may be considerably impaired. To Object of Haymaking. - Haymaking expose the fresh grass to such drying

great importance to the British farmer.

isthehandmaid of stock -rearing. As stock- influences as will preserve it with the rearing increases or diminishes, so inall least possible loss in its bulk and nutri probability will haymaking. Haymaking ment necessitates the exercise of the is the means by which the farmer endea- utmost skill and care. vours to preserve for the winter feeding of his stock the class of food which they

It is therefore desirable that the various methods of haymaking pursued

pick up for themselves on the fields in in different parts of the country should summer .

The quality and feeding value be discussed fully.

of this preserved grass much depend upon the manner in which it has been transformed from the green to the dry condition. It is thus of the utmost importance that the process of haymaking should be conducted on the best method

Varieties of Hay .

There are three

main varieties of hay : ( 1 ) hay made from grasses and clovers sown in the preceding year ; ( 2) hay made from sown grasses which have endured for several years; and (3) "meadow-hay,” or that

known and attainable. We say " attain - made from natural meadows, the herbage able,” because in our precarious climate of which consists of plants which have the best - laid schemes of farmers are

grown up at nature's own sweet will.

often upset by tantalising outbreaks of The first is the variety most general unfavourable weather. where arable farming prevails, notably Weather and Haymaking. — Hay- in Scotland and the north of England. making is peculiarly subservient to cli- The last abounds chiefly in the south matic conditions. It goes without saying that hay cannot be made in wet

of England and in certain districts in Ireland. The second variety is found

weather. Even the proverbial injunction here and there throughout the United to “ make hay while the sun shines ” is Kingdom. VOL . III .

А

HAYMAKING .

2

The chief principles of haymaking are In timothy, cocksfoot, and one or two alike applicable to all classes of hay. other natural grasses, the order of de Several modifications desirable for par- velopment of the ingredients would seem ticular varieties of grasses, and for cer- to be somewhat different, for these do tain localities, will be noticed presently. not reach their maximum feeding value The process of haymaking may, for until the seed is nearly ripe. These, the purposes of description and study, however, are exceptions . be conveniently divided into three secBest Stage for Cutting. – The stage, tions (1) cutting, ( 2) treatment between therefore, at which hay ( from which seed cutting and carrying, and (3) carrying is not to be taken ) should be cut is when and stacking, the plants are in full bloom , or at latest within a few days after the bloom or

Time for Cutting.

flower has disappeared. Many farmers

An important preliminary is to decide delay cutting in the belief that any little when the crop is ready for cutting. For loss by the maturing of certain of the

the moment we will leave the probability plants willbe more than made up by the of unfavourable weather out of consider- increase which they imagine they obtain

ation, and assume that the weather isall by growth of the under or bottom grass. the most ardent haymaker could desire.

This, however, is often fallacious.

The precise time at which it is most Aftermath . Moreover, the subse desirable to cut down the crop will de quent cutting or aftermath should be kept in view . The longer the first crop pend upon the object in view. Hay for Seed. If it is intended to is left on the ground the poorer as a obtain seed from the crop , then of course rule — will be the after- growth . If the

plants are left uncut until their stems may be so much impaired as to seriously lessen after- growth. To ensure the greatest possible quan A common plan

the plants must be left until the seeds have matured . This is easily deterA few heads may be rubbed mined. lightly in the hand, and the seeds and the heads examined.

become withered at the bottom , the roots

is for the farmer to sweep his hat tity of feeding matter in the course of smartly along the heads of the plants, the year — and this in the great majority and note the seeds it catches.

of cases will be the object of the farn er

Hay for Feeding. – But if the object is to raise good hay for feeding, and not to procure seed, then the cutting should take place at an earlier stage. It is well established, though the fact has not in all cases its due consideration in practice, that the production of seed and the securing of the maximum feeding value

—the best plan is to cut the first crop early rather than late.

in the hay are incompatible.

Tax upon the soil. – Another point

worthy of consideration is that the ripen ing of the seeds makes a much greater demand upon the fertility of the soil than the growing of the stalks and leaves of the plants.

This is

All things considered, therefore, it

not due to the mere loss of the seed in

will be admitted that it is far more

the food, but rather to the fact that the common for farmers to lose by delaying seed is matured at the expense of the cutting too long than by cutting too nutrient juices of the plants. It is the early. soluble ingredients of the hay - those

Premature Cutting. – Yet it is well

soluble in water - which are chiefly valu- to bear in mind the fact that the cry for able for feeding. Nearly all grasses and early cutting may be carried too far. clovers contain the greatest quantity of The agricultural chemist has shown these soluble ingredients when they are clearly that the nutritive ingredients of

in full flower, and before the seed has grasses are not fully elaborated until the formed. The formation of the plants have reached the flowering stage, seed and the general ripening of the -in a few cases not indeed until the plants have a strong tendency to increase seed has been nearly ripened. Water

been

the proportion of woody fibre, and thus is the principal constituent of young lessen the nutritive properties of the grasses, and it is not until they have hay.

reached the full stature of the flowering

HAYMAKING .

stage that the feeding properties are de

The warmer the weather the greater

Thus the farmer should wait for the

-this for the reaswa terrais, haywaby in the loss from the onstthinatg wa of rm

fully

veloped.

3

bloom before putting the mower into as a rule, a more powerful solvent than the hay- field. But when the flower ap- cold water . Hot and Cold Rain . — The difference pears he should have everything in readiop er at be so and cold rain upon ions as on as the in the influence of hot no ness, and gin weather justifies him in doing so . half -made hay is very ticeable in Sep

Study the Weather.- In the foregoing remarks upon the time to begin cutting, we assumed that the weather was favourable . Unfortunately, however, inclement weather has often to be conten ded with by the haymaking far-

tember, when a second cutting of grass is made into hay. At that season it is ob served that the half- made hay will bear with impunity double the quantity of rain it would stand in June or July. When wet weather sets in at the be

mers of this country. ex moth that wieng, goinong of In the hay harvest the farmer must to ginn nont wi hayinhathrveest,peitctisatio se study the weather indications with un- the hay will be easily made safe when ceasing care. In this he would do well dry weather returns. Before the return

to procure the aid of an efficient bar- of dry weather the cut grass may be

ometer, which can now be purchased for dead, and the hay very seriously damaged a very small sum .

Notwithstanding all that has been subjected.dr by the bettenchpoinlig rainde to which it is said as to the advantages of cutting the cy to s lay cutting un er It is crop before the seed is formed, it will, til the weather has become favourable. as a rule, in the case of wet unsettled If there are indications of more rain at

weather, be safer to delay the mower for hand, the mowing should be prosecuted a few days , until more settled weather sets slowly, and then , when there is reason to in, than to cut down the hay and get it believe that a spell of dry weather has

spoiled in the swathe by drenching rains. In contingencies of this kind, which are of frequent occurrence, the prudent farmer will choose the least of the evils which afflict him . There is no operation on the farm which demands more constant and careful attention or better judgment than haymaking. At best, in unfavourable seasons, it will often be a matter of compromise, involving not a little of the experimental element . Yet

set in , the order to all hands should be

“ full speed ahead . Cutting Rotation Hay. The two first varieties of .” hay mentioned above, those made from sown grasses and clovers, are roughly classed as rotation

hay, as distinguished from hay made from natural meadows that lie perma

nently in grass. First year's hay, that grown from seeds sown in the previous season, as a rule consists chiefly of peren there are certain known conditions and nial or Italian rye-grass and clovers, or influences which the haymaking farmer it may be all three. Perennial rye- grass should bear in mind .

It is our object and clovers are most largely used .

If

here to set forth these, leaving the farmer the weather is favourable, the mowing of ap y them to his own individual this hay should be begun when the rye to circumpl stan ces.

Hay Injured by Wet.

grass hascobe da en isin flower for aavai co sideration which the farmer shOounld e be breaon arn gr thye to culaytblor th ha dthwiof twea If thmp o.t in e ar ise in mind is that rain is much more in- force of labour, begin early, so that the

jurious to cut than to uncut hay. No main bulk of the crop may be cut down nutrim wa ent is

shed out of the stalk or

at the right time . In case of wet weather,

blade of a grass while it remains in life, delay a little as advised above . Cutting Early and Late Grasses. no matter how heavy the rainfall may

be. When the plant is dead , however, In hay from subsequent years' growth every shower of rain to which it is ex- (as in meadow -hay ), several of what are posed is liable to dissolve and wash away known as natural or permanent grasses a certain portion of its most valuable are included in varying proportions. Of feeding ingredients. these permanent grasses cocksfoot and

HAYMAKING .

4

foxtail are among the earliest, and when ments for hay-cutting. See that all pre these are plentiful, the crop should be liminaries are attended to beforehand, cutas soon as they go out of bloom . In so that when the work of cutting begins a piece of meadow -land, having a variety there may be no avoidable delay . of grasses, it is bad policy to lose the substance of the earlier grasses in waiting for the flowering of the later plants, more

Method of Cutting. Mowing -machine. To ensure satis

particularly if it should happen that the factory work, the mowing machine must be in good order. Have the knives it is erring on the side of safety to begin well sharpened, and see that they work

early varieties predominate. Here again

smoothly and close to the face of the

cutting early

Ill -suited Mixtures. - Early and late fingers. grasses, so advantageous for grazing pur-

It is advisable to use a good set of poses, are not well suited for companion- knives for cutting the hay crop, more

ship in the hay crop. A certain amount particularly if the crop is heavy or con

of variation in this respect is practically tains a large quantity of soft grass in unavoidable. It would be well, however,

the bottom . Half -worn knives, although

to guard against the association of extremes. For instance, it is imprudent to sow timothy and cocksfoot together for a hay crop . When the latter is ready for

good enough for cutting oats or wheat, often make very unsatisfactory work in soft grass. Whenever cutting has begun, see that the cutter-bar is as near level as

cutting, the timothy is not nearly at its possible. In many cases the outside end best ; while, if cutting were delayed till is by far the closest in fact, so close that the timothy attained its greatest value, the knives are often considerably dam the cocksfoot would be deteriorated by aged—while the inside end is so high that over - ripeness.

When timothy is sown

far too much of the crop is left on the

for hay, which is extensively done, it is ground. Close Cutting. - Moderately close best sown by itself, as none of the other principal plants grown for hay ripen at cutting is no doubt advisable on account the same time as it ripens.

of the greater weight of produce ob

Clover, Sainfoin , and Lucerne.

Many experienced farmers consider it desirable to cut clover and sainfoin as soon as the first traces of the flower appear. Lucerne is often cut even ear

lier. In dry hot seasons its growth seems to cease before the flowering stage is

reached, and in that case it is the prac tice with many to cut it down at once.

Preparing to Cut. The prudent farmer will have the mowing -machines looked out and put into the pink of condition before the day arrives for the commencement of

cutting. Any necessary repairs will have been effected at the end of the previous No judicious farmer would think of laying up a machine or imple ment of any kind for the idle season un season .

Fig. 457.- Reaper knife -sharpener.

til the needed repairs have been attended tained than by higher cutting . Very It is very bad practice indeed to close shaving, however, is very doubtful delay such matters until the time arrives policy. Indeed most good farmers re for the active employment of the machine gard it as decidedly undesirable. It

to.

or implement

incurs greater risk of delays and break

These general remarks apply with ages in cutting. Then it is also observed special force to preliminary arrange

that when the plants are cut excessively

HAYMAKING .

close to the ground, they are, as a rule honoured scythe has been relegated to 5 usually long in springing up again. In Types of Mowers. In the section very hot dry weather the roots may be on the harvesting of the grain crops, the

(rye - grass and clover especially ), un- quite a secondary position.

injured by undue exposure to the sun . Sharp Knives . — Keep the knives as

sharp as possible, as low - cutting and easy drawn mowers cannot be had without

sharp knives . Where two or more mowers

are kept going, it is advisable to keep one man sharpening knives, as then they are always in good repair, and cutting goes on more smoothlyand rapidly than when the driver has to look after not

only his horses but his mower and knives as well.

The most common method of sharpen ing the knives of reapers is with a fine

file supplied for the purpose. Machines for sharpening are now in use, however, one of the most successful of these being

shown in fig. 457, made by Harrison , M'Gregor, & Co., Leigh, Lancashire. Mower v. Scythe. — The mowing-machine is now almost universally employed in cutting hay. Except in the case of holdings too small to employ horse labour, the advantages which the mow-

mach

posses

14

45 Howard's mower . introductiFi ng and reaping ong. of 8.th- e mowi machine will be re ferred to more fully. Here will suffice to say that this most useful appliance has reached a very high state of efficiency, and that this improve

sc

mach

work

ine ing ines ses over the ythe ment in the ing of the are so decided and great that the time has been accompanied by the further

MERE

Fig . 459. — The “ Munster " mower.

advantage of a reduction in price. A cient, durable, and cheap, some of course tensively employed in manufacturing localities and other conditions. Excellent mowers are represented in mowing and reaping) machines, and farmers have the privilege of selecting figs. 458, 459, 460, and 46 1, made respec from a very ample collection of different tivelyby Howard , Bedford ; Keane, Cap " makes " and patterns, nearly all effi- poquin, County Waterford ; Pierce & Co. , very large number of firms are now ex- better suited than others for certain

HAYMAKING.

6

Wexford ; and Harrison , M'Gregor, & Ayrshire, and held in high esteem , is Co., Leigh, Lancashire. The last named shown here in fig. 462. is the famous “ Albion ” mower, shown All - round or Side Cutting.– The

at work in fig. 461. The combined reap- greatest speed is of course, as a rule, er and mower is a popular and most use- attained by working the machine in a ful machine. Some of the best forms of continuous course all round the field. these are mentioned and illustrated in

This, however, is not always practicable

the section on the harvesting of grain. or advantageous. The Caledonian Buckeye mower and

If the crop is moderate, and mostly

reaper, made by Jack & Sons, Maybole, standing, it may be cut round about

WARE

Fig. 460. — The " Victor ” mower.

where the field is no larger than can be track should, before coming back, be cut in one day. Should the field be cleared by the rake for the inside wheel, large, however, it will be advisable, otherwise it and the shoe are apt to get

even in a moderately standing crop , to blocked up by loose hay. The trouble is rather cut two ways only, after having very little, and much neater work can be

thoroughly opened up the field by tak- done. The cutting may then be pro ing five or six swathes round the out- ceeded with till the breadth cut is equal side. The field may then be cut into to what remains between the first be breaks about 50 or 60 yards wide, and ginning and the side of the field, after

the horses driven through the crop where which the mower should go round the a beginning is desired to be made. The remaining part. crop ,flattened by the horses' feet and the By cutting in this manner very little wheels of the machine, should be cut unnecessary time is lost at the turnings. on the return journey, as the fingers then Many fields, if inclined to be laid, or if get easily in below it, and cut it clean. heeled over by the wind, can be easily Unless the crop is very light, a narrow enough cut in this way, while they would

HAYMAKING.

be anything but pleasant to cut round against the direction in which the crop

7 about. Moreover , by the cutting being is laid. Direction to Cut. — In choosing the done from one side or end of a field right

forward, the crop can be much readier direction in which to cut, it is always coiled and ricked afterwards,more partic- advisableto letthe crop lie , if anything,

ularly if the work is interrupted by bad against the divider instead of falling to weather.

Laid Patches. — Where for any reason

main fa ings somoth wacerdsofthth ree rsan es'difenget,crasopbyredo e ehost erect and clean than

where

the

opposite

course is followed .

Clearing Swathe Ends .

Where

the

cropis moderately heavy, it is a great convenience

to

the

person in charge of mo

the GALHION MOWER

wer to have

a boy or girl along with each machine, or one for two ma

500

chines, who, with a rak e, can clear a small mow Albi er . on " Fig . 461. – The “ space at the entry to swreathe, drndaw; h fo theansedco d be it is desired to cut a field round about the first swathe aneac baes the cu payraaf ck ar llte not ha el,r and patches here and there are lying and when the finish in the wrong direction, it is the custom rake the cut crop out of the way, so as in some districts to turn such back by to allow a free passage out and in .

hauling a heavy plank broadside over Head -ridges. the crop in the opposite direction to much laid or twisted , it may be impos satisf head gestharee e act that in which the mower is moving, and sible to cut thI ori-lyridby em fth

a swathe or so in advance of it. A horse mowing -machine. In this case , the scythe resort is yoceked by a pair of plough -chains to will have to be except ed to. mentio pl nt Wi bo th

ions here the re of the ank , a y en gets ned , th the on the horse's back, and drives it where no other hand - labour need be used during required .

Cutting Laid Crops. If the the cutting process. very heavy and laid, it, as a rule, cr horsmo caop ould n beis done eswishng Oneon-ewawa y y Cuonttlyin, th g. e— If is always travel back in the clear spaces between the swathes, and the wheels of the mower should straddle the

swathe of cut-grass. By so doing the grass lies much more open, and dries

quicker and more regularly than where it is carelessly trampled on and pressed close to the ground . Loosening Lumps. — The boys or

girls who ar ds nd,and of the e keeping the en th Fig. 462.— “ Caledonian Buckeye" reaper and mower . sweatknheivses, sharpens cleashr,ouorldthalesomaconme whbe o hi whwicouhtha beusenuapu gryasth tok cut only in one direction. In this case piecreesguof s ro thic larl anve llll y ed y un a beginning is generally made at that gether by the bar of the mower, raked up side of the field which admits of the

by the boys, or from any cause whatever

mowing - machine going almost right are gathered into a thicker part than usual.

HAYMAKING.

8 “ MAKING ” THE HAY.

weather,” and that important " function ary.” is so fickle, that every season, nay,

The operations between the cutting even every week, may demand treatment

and the carting or stacking of the hay peculiar to itself. The farmer must watch may be conveniently described under the closely these uncertain and shifty condi above heading

Indeed these operations tions, and be prepared at any moment

may be said to constitute the “ making ” to vary his practice to suit them . This very fact renders it all the more

process.

Variations in Practice. - In this, important that the farmer should ac which is really the chief part of the work quaint himself as fully as possible with of the hay harvest, practice varies greatly the various methods of haymaking pur

sued with success throughout the country, throughout the country. To a large ex- so that he may have the greater resource other grounds for their existence than the in battling with untoward circumstances

tent, no doubt, these variations have no

peculiar tastes and notions of the farmers as they arise. themselves, who, it may be frankly con- ' English Methods. fessed, own a full share of the contrarieties and perversities of human nature.

In England, speaking generally, the

Grounds for Variations. - In very prevailing methods of haymaking are many cases, however, the differences in somewhat different

from

those most

the methods of haymaking are accounted largely pursued in Scotland. As a body,

for by variations in the soil, climate, sys- Scotch farmers are not so highly accom tem of farming, and the purposes for plished in the art of haymaking as are which the hay is intended . In particular, their English brethren . Less experience

the making process must be varied with and less encouragement are mainly ac wet and dry seasons, heavy and light countable for this . There is only a very crops, and with the particular class of small extent of Scotland really well suited for hay-culture, while in many parts of

hay.

There is thus good reason for variety England the hay crop plays quite a lead

in the practice of haymaking ; and while ing part in the economy of the farm . We have many a time observed and which we know to be pursued with suc- contemplated with delight the care, in

we append notes descriptive of methods

cess on widely separated parts of the telligence, and methodical precision ex country, and in different conditions of hibited on well-conducted English farms soil, climate, and system of farming, we in the harvesting of hay. The practice

deem it right to say that it is not pre- would seem to be reduced almost to the sumed that these are positively the best

nicety of a fine art, and it is conducted with the enterprise and forethought hap In haymaking, asin most farm prac- pily characteristic of British agriculture.

methods for all circumstances.

tices, each individual farmer must think for himself. The prudent farmer is eager

Meadow-hay.—The making of natu ral or meadow hay - hay grown from per

to know the methods which are pursued manent grasses — is, as a rule, slightly with success by others.

Having ac- different from the making of rotation or

quainted himself with these, he must clover hay. The former abounds largely carefully consider their adaptability to in England and Ireland. With this class

his own peculiar circumstances. He will of hay chiefly in view the late Mr James not hesitate to adopt such features of Howard, of Bedford, read an admirable these methods as seem to improve upon

paper on haymaking before the London

his practice hitherto, yet he rightly deems Farmers' Club in 1886. In that paper it wise to introduce radical changes in a Mr Howard gave much useful and reliable tentative way. information , which, to a large extent, is

Haymaking controlled by Weather

applicable to all parts of the country.

-- Haymaking,beyond almost every other Haymaking Machines. - The ted farm operation, is incapable of being con- ding or haymaking machines are largely ducted with success upon any definite or used in England, and to a smaller ex

hard -and -fast system . It is so thoroughly tent in Scotland and Ireland. Types of

within the control of the “ clerk of the these useful machines are represented in

HAYMAKING .

9

figs. 463, 464, and 465. The first two upper side, while the portions on are popular English machines, made re- lower side remain fresh and damp.

spectively by Howard, Bedford, and

the

On many farms the crop is immedi

Jeffrey & Blackstone, Stamford. The ately turned a second time by the hay last of the three is an ingenious Ameri- making machine, the back action being

usually employed after the first turning. Forward and Backward Tedding. Tedders are made with both a forward and a backward action. By the first

the grass is carried forward below the machine right over the top, and then scattered behind.

In

the

backward

U

action, the tedder merely picks up the

grass and gives ita less or more vigorous “ kick ” backwards. Fig. 463.- Howard's haymaker.

The former move

ment is of course much more violent

than the latter, and many farmers are

can invention, introduced into this coun- opposed to it in the belief that the hay try by Messrs Lankester & Co. , London, is thereby injured, seeds dashed out, and and highly spoken of by British farmers the leaves and stems bruised and broken. for lightness and efficiency.

Mr Howard believed that incalculable

Tedding.-- Opinions differ somewhat damage has been done to our hay crops as to the tedding of hay. In favour able weather and with a good crop cut by the mower, most farmers set the tedder to work to scatter the swathes as soon as a few acres have been

cut down.

Others think it better to

leave the swathes to wither for a day

or two before being disturbed ; but Mr Howard argued that if the for ward action of the tedder were used

for spreading, the greener the grass

Fig. 465.— The “ Acme" haymaker.

when tedded the better, inasmuch as

less loss of leaf and seed takes place by the unjudicious use of the forward

in the green stage than when partially action of haymaking machines, and this Moreover, if the weather is under the impression that when in the

made.

favourable, time is lost by the delay, as back action the machine does not move the hay sufficiently.

It is well known,

however, that while fresh grass may be injured by too much knocking about, this is doubly true of half-made hay. Mr Howard would never resort to the forward action when the backward ac

tion would accomplish what is necessary. In no case could he conceive the neces

sity for using the forward action twice on the same crop. Experiments in Tedding . An im KARE

Fig. 464. — The “ Taunton ' haymaker.

portant point in working the haymaking machine is the speed at which it revolves.

In a series of experiments which Mr the grass will be withered or dried more Howard made, he found that the barrels quickly and uniformly when spread than with the slowest speed for the back ac when it lies as left by the mower. Ob- tion made the bestwork, the crop being viously grass which lies in a thick left looser and more hollow ; the higher

swathe gets withered and dried on the speeded machines, owing to the greater

HAYMAKING .

IO

violence of the throw , left the crop flatter same day. As will be readily under on the ground. stood, a fall of rain upon the windrows

Speedy Haymaking. – With a light would cause more delay than a similar crop the back action will be quite suffi- fall of rain upon hay in the swathe or cient for spreading the swathes. Indeed, thinly spread as by the tedder, for in Mr Howard stated that, in favourable

this case the windrows would again have

weather, he had crops of a ton or more per acre, cut by a machine one day, the swathes left untouched until the next, when theywere simply drawn into wind-

to be “ spread out to dry.” In dry, settled weather more freedom may, of course, be exercised in these all-important operations.

rows by the horse-rake, shaken out by

66

Cocking ” Hay . — As soon as the

the haymaker in the back action, then hay is in a fit condition for putting into raked together, and carted in capital cocks, the horse-rake is run along the order the same day.

windrows, drawing the material into

Tedding with High Wind . — High heaps, which by the hand - fork are wind may be troublesome in haymaking. speedíly formed into cocks. During a strong wind it is desirable to The practice in the cocking of hay arrange for working the haymaker, when varies greatly in different parts of the used in the forward action, sidewise to country, and is likewise modified to suit the wind ; this may often be done by the weather at the time.

working obliquely across the swathes. It Large and Small “ Cocks.” — In the is, however, desirable to avoid using the greater part of England, the half-made forward action when the wind is trouble- hay is usually collected into very small some, inasmuch as the crop becomes very cocks, often containing no more hay than a man could lift by the hand -fork at two unevenly spread. Tedders injuring Clover -hay. — Hay or three turns, sometimes even less. In

in which clover forms a considerable Scotland, Ireland, and the north of Eng part is very liable to injury by the use land the more general practice is first to hay into very small and then of the haymaking machines. The leaves put the of the clover become so brittle that the into larger heaps . In discussing the violent motion of the tedder breaks them merits of large and small cocks or coils, in pieces, and thus causes loss in the the late Mr James Howard said that Easy back action may be em- in a damp climate, or in cases where crop. ployed in fresh clover-hay withimpunity, the hay has to be carted a long distance if it is done carefully and at a slow pace. to the homestead, these big cocks may Turning with the hand -fork, however, is be desirable ; but for districts similar safer for clover-hay. to Bedford , or where expedition is the Collecting Hay.—In collecting the order of the day, he failed to see any hay after it has been scattered for dry- advantage in the method. “ That it is ing, manual labour has to a large extent attended with waste, through long ex

given place to horse-labour and mechan- posure of so large a surface, seems to be ical appliances.

The horse - rake is an

obvious ; nevertheless, reasons in favour

excellent labour-saving machine, and is of the system for moist climates are ad now universally employed.

By it the

vanced for those who adopt it.

For in

partially withered grass is drawn into stance, in the north it is alleged that " windrows." The rake is started at the turnip -hoeing and haymaking press for side of the field first cut, and emptied at attention at the same time ; that as the

intervals, regulated according to the carry- whole of the hay crop intended to be put ing thcapacity of the rake and the weight in a stack cannot be got ready in one cr

of e op . The rows of gathered hay day, it is safer and more convenient to thus formed are called windrows. In draw into large heaps that portion which

these rows the hay lies loosely, and in is ready, in order to secure it against thisdries condition, with favourable weather, danger until the remainder of the crop speedily it

. is also fit, and in order that as much ex Unless the weather is dry and quite pedition as possible may be used in fin settled, no more hay should be gathered ishing the stack when once begun. It is into windrows thancan be cocked in the also maintained, that if these large cocks

HAYMAKING

U

are properly formed, an excessive amount noon of the day following. A heavy of rain must fall to penetrate more than crop, however, even in good weather, an inch or two ; that the loss from ex- will require a clear day be posure is not discernible, and that the tween cutting and coiling ; liability to heat in the stack is consider while an extra heavy crop, or ably diminished through the sweating one including a large amount the hay has received in the cock .”

of clover, will most likely re

Differences in Methods. - Although quire two clear days. If the it is convenient to treat of English and

weather be dull, damp, or wet,

Scotch customs separately, it should be the process of coiling may be stated that no very distinct line can of necessity delayed an indefi be drawn between the practices of the nite time. two countries.

On each side of the

Turning Clover - hay.- It

Tweed nearly all the methods of hay- has been explained that the

making known in this country are pur- turning of the swathes of hay sued to a lesser or greater extent.

Cer- grown from permanent grasses

tain methods are more prevalent in the is usually performed by the

north than in the south, but the differ- haymaking or tedding ma ences lie in degree more than in prin- chine. Rotation or clover hay, on the other hand, is The hay made from permanent grasses generally turned by a small can be tossed about with greater freedom hand -rake or by the hand -fork, than clover-hay. The former is thus, by such as is shown in fig. 466

ciple.

the use of the tedding-machine, effectu- (Spear and Jackson, Sheffield ). ally spread out to the drying influences The reason for this difference

of sun and wind, so that it can usually in practice is, as already ex be stacked sooner than is, as a rule, pos- plained , that the rotation or sible with the rotation hay in the more clover hay is more

easily

bruised and broken than the precarious climate of the north. The English custom of taking the hay softer and tougher produce of right from the first small cock or coil the permanent grasses. into large stacks or hay-sheds has the Process of Turning . - In effect of saving time, and of inducing the forenoon of the day on

amongst the hay in the stack or hay-shed which it is considered that the

a certain amount of fermentation, which grass should bereadyto coil, the is regarded as rendering the hay more swathes should be turned over palatable to stock. by rakes, so as to expose the under surface to the sun, and Scotch Methods.

In Scotland and the north of England

allow the wind to easily play through the whole mass. This

Fig . 466. Hand hay

first year's hay — that grown from grasses it cannot do if allowed to lie fork. and clovers sown in the previous year- one or more days in the con is the variety most general. Hay of this dition in which it was left by the mower, kind, especially when it contains a con- as the longer it lies it claps the closer to

siderable proportion of clover, must be the ground, and although the upper sur handled more tenderly in making than

facemay be hard and dry, the underly

hay from permanent grasses, as the for- ing stalks and leaves will be wet and mer is more liable to injury by break- damp . The turning-over process should , if at ing and bruising. This circumstance is

in a large measure responsible for the all practicable, be done early in the fore distinctions between themethods of hay- noon, so that as long time may elapse as making most prevalent in England and possible between the turning and coiling, Scotland respectively.

without allowing it to lie exposed to the

RotationHay . - A light crop of rye- dews of another evening, and the risk of rain on the day following: The operation of turning is best per coil ” or cock ” by the after- formed by the person walking in the

grass and clover, if cut before mid -day

in clear dry weather, may be in condition to “

HAYMAKING .

12

cleared space left by the mower on the under most circumstances raking with side of the swathe furthest from the

the rows is speedier.

turned -over part, and then by catching

Arranging the Force. According to the thickness of the crop, the length of the swathe, and the speed at which

the folded-over part of the swathe with

the teeth of the fork or hand -rake, and sharply pulling it towards him , the whole the horse travels, from four to eight under surface is brought to the top. The coilers will be required for each rake.

work is more easily performed when the Some farmers allow the rake to be started operator walks in the same direction

some time before the coilers begin ; the

in which the mowing - machine went. latter then take a row each, which they

Several persons generally go together finish before they begin with another. when turning-over is being done, the Most farmers, however, consider the best

one following at a yard ortwo behind system is to start the rake and coilers at the other. Care should be taken to turn the

the same time, each coiler getting the same number of rows to coil. By this

whole swathe upside -down, because if arrangement, if the number of coilers

the work is slovenly done, the near side be properly regulated, according to the of the swathe will not be turned over weight of the crop, and speed and width at all, and, of course, when the hay is of the rake, each person will do more

gathered together, those parts may in work than where each begins at the one that case be quite damp, while the bulk end of a row and follows it right on to of the hay may be in good condition. the other end. Fit for Coiling. - If after mid -day By beginning with the rake, each per the grass is withered and free of all son gets a direct reminder, every time

positive damp or wet, even although it the rake goes past, whether or not he or should have a raw feel, it will be in con- she is keeping abreast or falling behind

dition for coiling. Should the crop have with his or her work. This manner of lain on the ground for several days, and doing the work necessarily entails more

there be damp or wet parts in it which travelling than the other ; but the relief have not been exposed to the sun and obtained in travelling from one row to air, it is a good plan to rake it together the next more than makes up for the an hour or two before coiling begins. By doing so the rake on being relieved

time lost in doing it, and in the end more work will be done in a given time

turns the hay upside-down, so that any than by the other arrangement, which is damp parts are exposed to the sun , and often a matter of very great importance. have a chance of getting dried before Coils or Cocks.-Coils or cocks are being covered up in the coil. small conical heaps of half -dried hay, Again, it may be remarked , that so

put together of such a size and shape as

much depends on the crop, season, and to admit of the hay continuing the dry weather that it is utterly impossible for ing process, and yet preserving it from any one to properly describe what are

serious deterioration by rainfall.

Ac

the requisite conditions of dryness suit- cording to the class of crop, the climate, able for coiling. It is not difficult to and dryness of the hay at the time, coils learn, but can only be learned hy practice range in size from a foot in diameter and experience .

and a foot high to 3 feet in diameter

Collecting the Hay. - It having been and 3 feet high . On the hillsides and higher -lying considered that the requisite dryness has been obtained , the crop may be gathered

farms, where the principal hay grown is

together by the horse -rake, preparatory obtained from water and other meadows, to coiling. The best rakes are the self- the coils are at first made very small, of relieving ones, as the man can then ten from a foot to 18 inches in diameter. devote all his attention to his horse and In such situations the grass is, as a rule, inachine, and put off the rows more naturally soft, the climate is often wet,

nearly straight and regular. By raking and the season frequently late. across the rows, as left by the handHollow Coils. Under such adverse rakes, a small or grown - in crop of circumstances, in a trying season the hay may be more cleanly gathered, but coils are occasionally made hollow in

HAYMAKING .

stead of solid, so that the wind easily plays through them, while the rain at the same time is thrown off. This class of coil is generally called a lap - coil or

13

jecting from one-third to one-fourth of the coil. This, when caught hold of, is suddenly jerked out, because if pulled slowly and steadily the coil might be

lap -cock, and is made in the following drawn over. This handful of hay, when manner : A moderately sized armful of pulled out, is comparatively straight, and hay, as straight as possible, is taken ,and when spread over the top of the coil, if not naturally straight it is partially assists very materially in throwing off made so by putting the foot on the one

wet.

Thewhole baseof the coil is gone

end and then on the other, and pulling round in this way, generally three or out the loose and tangled grass.

The

four stretches of the arms being neces

armful is then put down in such a posi- sary . The handfuls of straight hay are tion that the ends lying on the left arm carefully spread on the top, each in a lie flat on the ground. With the right contrary direction to the one previous. hand the other ends of the bundle are

Well -made Coils. — The protection of

brought over and laid on those first put the hay from damage by rain in the coil on the ground, the bundle having now very much depends on the carefulness the appearance of a rough tube orglobe with which the bottoms or bases are

of hay with a hole through it. In this form the grass very readily dries, and is not easily soaked through. The process is by no means so slow as might at first be imagined. Indeed, several of these hollow coils might be made during the time it has taken to describe the

pulled, and how the pullings are spread on the top.

The operation is compara

tively simple, yet many farm -hands do it very badly; and while a properly-made coil is proof against any moderate rain fall, a badly - made one may be much damaged by a single heavy shower.

operation. Badly -made Coils. — The great faults This class of coiling was much more of badly-made coils are portions of the common when grass was cut by the hay being put into the heap in a doubled scythe than now , the mowing -machine up condition, which holds the rain in

and hay -tedder putting the practice out stead of throwing it off ; the one armful being put on the top of the other without of date. Forming Coils. - Ordinary coils, as a being properly shaken out, which allows

rule, are about 3 feet in diameter, and the rain to go down thedivision between when newly erected a little more in

the two, and admits of the top half being

height. Many contend that they are easily blown off ; and neglect of pulling best made by the hands, unassisted by the bases, causes the loose hay round the graips or forks. An armful of hay is bottom to easily get wet, and when once taken as left by the horse - rake, and wet it is difficult to dry — a well-pulled roughly shaken and allowed to drop on coil drying at the base in half the time

itself as regularly as possible. A second required by a badly -pulled one. Neglect armful is then put on the first, being, of pulling at the base also leaves the however, a little more carefully shaken top of the coil unprotected, for the or spread, and kept within as little space straight hay carefully spread over the as possible, so as to leave the top narrow . top acts very much as thatch to an or A third and smaller armful should now dinary stack . It leads the rain from the

be taken and, more carefully than the top to the side, down which it readily previous two, shaken over the top. The flows, while without it the rain would coil will now present the appearance of run right down the centre of the coil. a blunt - pointed cone widened at the base.

Fork - made Coils. - - In most parts

Pulling and Topping Coils.— The base is now narrowed by pulling all the loose hay out and spreading it carefully over the top. In pulling the coil, the

coiling is now done by forks or light graips. Few can make such a perfect coil with these tools as by the hand, al though for a strong man they make the work much easier as well as speedier.

person advances with outstretched arms,

If rain-proof coils are desired to be made

and, bringing the hands together, takes where coiling is done by the fork, greater hold of theloose ends of the hay pro- care than usual should be exercised in

14

HAYMAKING .

pulling the base of the coils, and in result being that heavy rains damage spreading it regularly over the tops. the crop very badly by running down Small Coils. If the hay is not in through it. Thunderstorms and Haymaking . thorough condition for coiling, and the

weather looks as if rain were about to Coils, although a fair protection against fall, the crop may be secured in smaller moderate showers, are often little pro coils than usual, which will act as a tection against heavy thunderstorms. partial protection against the rain, and Where thunderstorms are frequent and yet be small enough to allow the wind heavy, the system is therefore little re to blow through them , and in part com- sorted to for open crops such as clover. Securing Wet Coils . During a plete the drying. Remaking Coils.— As soon as the heavy thunder-shower, or light contin weather has become bright again, the uous rain for one or more days, as

coils should be remade; and if the crop occasionally happens, the rain often runs is now in moderately dry condition, two under the coils , and so wets them that heaps may be put into one. Should the only in exceptional cases could they ever crop have been put together too green, be expected to dry if allowed to remain the coils may be shaken out in the sun in their original position. After such

a few hours before being remade ; but rains the probability is that in a few on no account should coils be shaken out days it will be found that, while the

to any great extent, unless the weather very top of the coil is dry enough, three is such as to give a reasonable assurance or four inches further down it is quite

of their being rebuilt before rain again wet. If the weather is settled, and the falls.

centre of the coil is sufficiently dry to Avoid Over -working. – At this stage enable it to be put into the field -rick, or it may be mentioned that rye-grasses and tramp coil or cock, the tops (which will clovers are rarely improved by much likely be damp with the morning dew)

shaking out and remaking. Hay from may be taken off and laid to one side, these plants, indeed , as formerly indi- while the body of the coil is taken away cated , should always be secured with as and secured in the rick, the bottoms also little knocking about as possible.

being left alongside the tops.

These, if

Timothy-hay .- Timothy, like natural carefully spread out in the sun for an meadow -hay, will stand a good deal of shaking. Timothy is the easiest secured of all the grasses, owing to the small proportion of leaves which it contains, and the length and strength of its seedstalks. A heavy crop of timothy can often be cut the one forenoon and coiled

hour or two, very soon dry, and can ultimately be gathered up with the rakings. If, however, the body of the coil is

not dry enough to admit of being secured in the field -rick, the top should be taken off to well under the damp

the afternoon of the day following, whereas a similarly heavy crop of rye- grass and clover would require two or three days to get ready for coiling. The great preponderance of stalks which this crop con-

portion, and a new coil made, the tops and bottoms being loosely spread over the top. In this way the damp material very soon dries, unless the quantity of it has been all the greater, while at the tains over all others keeps it so open, same time the operation can be performed that, in the coil, it dries much quicker without exposing the crop to further and more efficiently than any other grass.

Owing to the length of the stalk, timothy

damage from the elements. Hours for Coiling. As a rule, the

coils have generally to be made much dew prevents coiling early in the morn larger than coils of other classes of hay. ing. In most cases coiling is done be

But its openness in texture, although an tween eleven o'clock in the forenoon and advantage in drying, is also a disad- evening, the bulk being done after mid vantage in case of heavy rains.

On

day.

Raking .-- As soon as possible after account of its exceptional length and strength, timothy is probably the worst the coiling is finished, the land should

to coil of all the grasses, and in conse- be raked clean between the rows of the

quence it often is the worst coiled, the coils, before it gets any rain if at all

HAYMAKING .

15

possible. These rakings are in some usually made about one ton in weight, cases carefully spread over the tops of more as a matter of convenience for the nearest coils, and in others coiled by loading the carts than for any other themselves. The rakings become soaked reason . In other districts, however (and rous), where the very easily, and if once wet are very they are the most numero

difficult to dry, more particularly if they hay is consumed at home, the field-ricks have been put on the top of the coil are generally made to weigh from 10 without being methodically shaken out. cwt. to 15 cwt. If put intothe smaller Great care should therefore be taken to size of field -ricks, there is much less risk

see that only a few are put on each coil of damaging the hay by ricking it too if put there at all — and that these are soon , As a rule, hay can safely be put thoroughly shaken out.

into a 12 -cwt. or 14-cwt. rick a day or

Coiling in High Wind.— If a good breeze should be blowing during the operation of coiling , considerable annoyance is often caused by the tops being

two earlier than it would be judicious to put it into one weighing a ton. This alone is no mean consideration, for every additional hour the hay stands in the

Under such circumstances,

coils, the greater will be its risk of

carried off.

the hay should be built well to the damage. “ Kilns ” For Rick or “ Bosses ." windy side of the coil, the operator always standing on that side, with his the purpose of saving one or two days' -

In this manner

exposure in the coil, it is customary in

the coils can be built so that they are

some districts to use triangles, " kilns,”

less liable to be blown over .

or “ bossings ” for the centres of the

or her back to the wind.

After the

field or plot is finished, the whole should ricks. According to the district, these be again gone over, and the damaged are usually from 7 to 10 feet high, and ones repaired, as when rain falls on them are made of thinnings of plantations or in this state they are liable to be seriously other suitable wood. Some farmers have injured.

a supply of such permanently bolted

Time for Field -ricking:-The time together at the top and nailed by spars hay should stand in the coil before being at the sides, while others form them as

transferred to the field -rick is regulated required out of the ordinary supply of solely by the dryness of thecrop and stackyard props. In the latter case they the weather at the time. Where the are usually tied at the top with a piece crop is light, and has been well dried of stack -rope, which is made very tight, before being put into the coil, it occa- no side-spars being used at all. Used in sionally may be ricked the day following this way, stack -props serve a double pur should circumstances and the weather pose, and as single props they are more

permit. In fact, during very dry and easily handled and stored away when settled weather it often is not coiled at not in use than are permanently made all, although in most parts of Scotland,

triangles.

The labour of setting tem

unless under exceptional circumstances, porary triangles up is also very little, as the practice is not considered a good a man can tie the three props together one.

and set them up in a minute or two ;

The stage at which the crop will keep and if there is likely to be little time for in the rick without loss of colour or ex-

such while ricking is going on, they can

cess of fermentation is one which must be seen to be learned, as it cannot be

often be made and erected in the morn

ing before the dew is off the hay.

described in words. When, however, the the permanent “ kilns " hay is considered in condition to rick, no spects more convenient. time should be lost in making it secure

Situation of Ricks.

Still

are in some re

In some locali

if the weather is at all favourable, forties it is the custom to build the ricks hay can never be considered anything anywhere over the field, wherever hay like secure until it is in the field -rick .

can be got, while in others the usual

Field or Temporary Stacks. — In method is to build a row of ricks across districts where it is customary to sell the rows of coils. If the rows of coils hay and cart it direct from the field to

are short, say under 150 yards long, the

the consumers' premises, the ricks are ricks are built at the middle, and the

HAYMAKING .

16

crop brought in from both sides. If, how- horse, thus pulling the sledge out from ever, the rows are longer, two or more rows of ricks may be required. For the purpose of Hay - sledge. hauling the hay from each end of the

under the load.

If the sun is bright and

the hay dry, the load of hay is shoved off with very little exertion.

In fact, in

going up even a very slight incline the

row to the rick , several methods are in

load may sometimes come off of its own

The best known and most

accord ; but if the sledge has been wetted

common use.

efficient method is the hay -sledge. This by rain or dew, or by dampness from the sledge has two runners, which are usually bottoms of the coils , it is sometimes very

straight or nearly so on the upper edge, difficult to get it removed. Other Methods of Hauling. – Be Across these are fixed four cross- sides the method of bringing in the hay bars, on which are nailed thin boards by the sledge here described, there are running the whole length of the sledge, several other ways in which the same and more or less curved on the under

one .

which may either be fitted closely to operation is performed. The most primi gether or have spaces between each strip. The sledges may in size be from 7 feet to 9 feet wide, and say from 8 to it feet long. They are inconvenient if made wider than can easily pass through an ordinary field -gate. For the smaller sizes one horse will be sufficient to draw

all that can conveniently be put on , while for the larger sizes two horses will be required.

tive is to carry it in by forks, or as occa sionally has to be done on very soft meadows, by thrusting two poles under each coil and then carrying it off by two persons, after the manner of a double

handed barrow . This system is of course adopted only where the land is too soft to safely carry a horse, or where wages are very small .

Another method is to join the chains

In working, the sledge goes to the end from two horses by a pair of stout ropes, of the row furthest from where the rick travel a horse along each side of a row of is to be, the coils being loaded on it as it coils, catch the coils by the rope connect moves nearer the rick. If the crop is ing the horses, and sweep all that can be light and the rows short, the whole row caught into the rick. between the end and the rick will be American Method.—The Americans cleared by one sledgeful. If longer and have invented a machine to attain the heavier, two loads may be required. same result in an easier way for both

Loading the Sledge. - One person, man and horses, and with less damage to the hay. This machine is about 12 feet the horse in the sledge, while one, two, or wide, and rests on three light wheels, one

usually a boy, will be required to lead

more boys, women , or men lift on the coils

on each side and another a few feet be

with light steel graips or forks, the former hind . To the under side of the framing being preferable, as by the graip or of the machine twelve teeth 5 feet long spade handle the workman prevents the are bolted . These teeth are of wood and load from turning round in his hand, an pointed with iron, and are fixed about a accident which is frequently happening foot above the ground. The driver, sit with the ordinary fork .

Two persons,

ting on a seat above the hind wheel, can

particularly women or boys, work best raise or lower the points of the teeth, together, as they have then quite suffi- whether loaded or unloaded, until they cient strength to lift between them a full are a foot above the ground . On the coil each time. In this way fewer rak- outside of the apparatus, at each side of

ings are left, the hay is not unnecessarily the teeth, a pole is placed, outside of each tossed about, and is in consequence easier forked at the rick, while more can be put on the sledge than if each coil has been lifted at two or three times.

of which a horse is yoked to a plough tree at one end of the pole and by a breast-strap or chain at the other. The points of the teeth being lowered in front

Unloading the Sledge. — On arriving of a windrow of loose hay or coils, and at the rick, two or more persons put their the horses guided down each side, the forks into the front part of the load, teeth slip under the hay until a load is against which they throw their whole gathered, when the driver lifts the points weight, when the lad moves forward the of the teeth from the ground, turns round 1

HAYMAKING .

his horses if need be, and carries off his

17

It often happens that mere turning of

Here he drops the the coils upside-down is not sufficient to teeth of the apparatus on the ground, make the crop dry enough for ricking. backs his team , when the breast-straps In this case the rows of coils must be

load to the rick.

of the horses pull the apparatus from

thoroughly shaken out, the space occu

under the load of hay, the points of the pied by the spread hay depending very teeth are again raised, and the team much on whether or not the crop requires move off for another load.

much or little drying.

If the day is dull, or the crop more Sweep" rake, is very light, being built than usually damp, the coils not only re almost entirely of wood, and very strong. quire to be shaken out, but to be turned It is said to be able to gather and carry over with rakes or forks, in much the from 4 cwt. to 7 cwt. of hay ; but as yet same way as the swathes are turned up This apparatus is called a “ Monarch

its adaptability to this country has not side-down, before it is brought into the been thoroughly tested.

rick.

Soft grown meadow-hay often re

In 1889, Mr John Speir, Newton Farm , quires to betreated inthis way, although Sweep ” Glasgow , procured a “" Monarch Sweep

it is very unusual to do so with timothy

rake, but unfortunately it arrived too

or clover and rye - grass.

Where hay has

late for trial in the ordinary hay crop been thus spread out, it should be gather that season . In the month of September

ed into narrower rows by hand rakes or

a trial was made with some hay made forks, or by the horse-rake, before begin

from a second crop of Italian rye-grass ; ning to rick, as the time thus spent is but either owing to the softness and

saved when ricking is begun, while the

dampness of the hay or some other un- crop is drying all the time. If one or noticed cause, the hay did not slip well more persons can be spared to collect the up the teeth. Before trial it was ex- scattered hay, this may be done as the pected that someboarding would require ricking proceeds. to be put up at the back of the machine

Ground for Ricks.

For the row of

to keep the hay from running over the ricks, as dry and level a portion of the top of it ; but the difficulties experienced field should be chosen as possible. If were all the other way, as the hay re- the foundation be damp, the hay in the

peatedly stuck on the points of the teeth bottom of the rick is often considerably and would not slip up, after which the damaged, and if the land is not level, it rake slipped over the top of the crop . is difficult to build the rick so that it will It is hoped, however, that with ordinary not ultimately lean over to the low side. Owing to soft places being in many hay in an average season, this defect may

yet be avoided . Thousands of this giant meadows, it is also advisable to see that rake are said to be in use in America, the ricks are placed in such a position where they have a species of horse-fork that no difficulty will be experienced in which lifts the whole load at one time getting the load out of the field. The

on to a waggon or stack, without being position of the gates and water-courses touched by hand at all. must also be considered in selecting Preparing for Stacking. - If there is the positions of the ricks. These dif

any dampness worth speaking of on the ferent obstacles, in the case of water bottom of the coils, they should be turned meadows particularly, often necessitate upside-down an hour or so before ricking In turning them over, they should be turned so that the bottom faces the sun, and if the day is cloudy,

departure from the rule already laid down

the bottom should be turned to the wind .

Work with the Wind . - Unless there

is commenced .

as to building the ricks in a line across

the rows of coils, and an equal distance from either end .

As it is never advisable, even in good is some reason for doing otherwise, a be

weather, to turn up a great many coils at ginning with ricking should always be one time, no more should be done than

made at that side of the field from which

will just allow them to dry before being the wind is blowing, as what is left after removed, an odd person going in front each rick is completed, and the rakings turning the coils over at or about the and dressings from it, can much more same speed as the crop is being ricked . VOL . III .

easily be conveyed to the next rick, when B

HAYMAKING .

18

going with the wind, than when they the centre well filled, because, should such have to be taken against it. Again, by not be attended to, the water, as it trickles this plan, hay which blows off the ricks down the sides during rain , would be in course of being built is carried towards conveyed into the centre of the rick, in the next rick, whereas if building were stead of being always kept to the outside.

continued in the opposite direction, the As soon as a few courses have been wind would always be blowing the loose built, the rick should be tightly pulled hay on ground which had quite recently at the very base, either by someone there been raked, thus causing unnecessary for that special purpose or by the forker. As a rule, there are always one or more

work.

Foundation for Ricks. — The position persons, generally women, to rake up the

of the ricks and the direction in which leavings of each rick ; these persons suit they are to be built having been fixed very well for pulling the base, as build

on, and a sledge-load of hay having been ing then goes on uninterruptedly. When deposited, the building of the rick should the base has been pulled, this person may now commence.

In districts in which

also pull off any loose hay which is hang

wheat-straw is comparatively plentiful, it ing round the side, and probably give it is a good plan to place a couple of sheaves

a stroke down with the rake also.

below each rick, as it prevents the natuLittle taper should be given to the ral dampness of the soil from injuring rick until four-fifths or five -sixths of the lowest layers of hay. If tied up care- the whole quantity intended to be put

fully and put into stooks when the hay in the rick have been built. The rick is removed, the wheat-straw is not much may now be rapidly tapered, the forker the worse, and the labour caused is not or some other handy person in the very great.

If the two sheaves are laid meantime roughly smoothing down the

on the rick foundation with their heads

rick with a rake.

The rake should now

touching, and each then spread regularly be given to the builder, who, during the

round in half a circle, with the band operation of building the head, should under, the whole may very easily and keep constantly raking it down, by catch tidily be gathered again when the ricking the rake by the end of the handle and shoving it from him .

has been removed .

As the apex

The straw

is reached, he should watch and put the

bottom having been laid, the triangle

hay only under his feet, and not at the

Building Field - ricks.

should be erected, if one is to be used, sides, so as to have the centre as high after which forkfuls of hay should be and firm as possible. The top having laid round what is intended to be the been reached , two ropes of hay, straw, bottom of the rick. This completed, the or coir-yarn are thrown over the top, the centre should be well filled in to a higher one at right angles to the other, the

level than the first laid outside ring. ends of each being firmly fastened to the Another row of forkfuls is now laid on hay at the base of the rick. The builder round the outside, and the centre filled now gently slides down, or is assisted up as before. The forker should always down by a small ladder, after which he

drop his load as nearas possible to where carefully rakes the rick down all round, the builder is working, and the latter being most particular about raking off, should lift it in his arms all in a piece, or pulling out by hand, any portions of and, before placing it in position , give hay which are hanging out, doubled, or it a swing, so as tothrow the ends of the bent, so that no obstacles shall be put in hay well out, by which means, when the the way of the rain running easily and armful has been placed in position, none quickly off. While the builder is doing of the hay shall be doubled up, but all so, the forker should be erecting another the ends, at least near the outside of the triangle, or making a new bottom . rick, pointing outwards. It is a more Where two men work together, they troublesome, but a preferable plan to generally fork and build alternately; but thoroughly disentangle the hay and scat- in some districts, more particularly where ter the forkfuls thinly over the rick . ricks of from 8 cwt . to 12 cwt. are built, In this manner the building is con- it is the custom for the ricks to be built tinued, care being taken to always keep by women or boys, the forking of course

1

HAYMAKING .

19

being done by men , as it is too heavy be cut and another coiled each day, and work for either of the former. on Friday afternoon or Saturday three In some cases, where the hay is not in

good condition, the ricks are built with-

different sections will be advanced a stage one will be cut, another coiled, and a

out any one being on them — all the hay third put in the rick; while of the other being placed in position by forks alone. three remaining sections which have been To build ricks in this manner, two men

cut during the week, and which are not

working together make better work than touched to -day, one will be drying in the where each works alone.

swathe, and two in the coil.

In early and dry localities the field-

As soon as any one stage is ready to

ricks, as a rule, are made much wider in

move on to the next, no time should be

proportion to their heightthan in higher lost in advancing it, as every stage the and later districts.

In the latter it is crop is moved forward it is the more secure . In a wet day the crop is always keep well even in narrow and very less damaged in the coil than had the high rick. The shapes of ricks, like many same crop been in the swathe ; and in

difficult to get the crop dry enough to

other points in haymaking, vary in dif- the rick it may, practically speaking, be ferent localities.

Ilaymaking by Stages. Whenever the first portion of hay has

considered safe, although absolutely not so, as isolated persons occasionally find to their cost.

When the ricking stage of the process

been secured in the rick, an opportunity of haymaking has been attained, no more is offered, if the weather is favourable, for should be cut than there is a reasonable

advancing one stage further the different prospect of getting coiled on an early sections of the remaining work. To pre date. It is well to have little more in vent hay being any longer exposed to the coils than can reasonably be ricked in elements than is necessary, only as much from two to three days, as should should be in each stage as the available

unsettled weather set in, the intervals

force of the farm can advance a stage fur- during which hay can be handled are ther in a full day's work. Thus,if the often so brief, that where a small piece weather were moderately favourable, and can be easily secured , a large area may the crop from its nature could in the most be completed spoiled. of cases be coiled after exposure to the Look to the Stacks.—On damp days sun for from two to two and a half days, or dull mornings all ricks, as soon as

we would have the hay cut, say, on Monday, lying undisturbed in the swathe on Tuesday, turned on Wednesday morning as soon as the dew disappears, and coiled

they have stood one or two days, should clined to lean to one side straightened up, and the ropes of all tightened . Dur

during the afternoon. On Wednesday

ing the first day or two occasional ricks

be examined, and those in any way in

night there would thus be a portion of are apt to tumble, particularly if care the crop in three different stages of manu- lessly or hurriedly built, or if the hay facture -- viz., one portion cut that day, has been in good condition and the sun another partially dried which had been strong when they were being built - nar cut the day before, and a third in coil. row or very high ricks being, of course, Unless the hay has been in all the

the most liable to fall.

Where at all

better condition when coiled, it is rarely possible, these should be put up at once, it can be put into the rick without stand- as they often get badly spoiled by a

ing at least one day and a half ; and if night's rain. If the top has been blown the weather is dull or showery, it is quite clean off, the damage to a well-hearted rick may not be great; but if the half Presuming, however, for the sake of of the rick tumbles over, the layers of illustration, that the weather has been the hay remain on edge, and if heavy favourable, this section of the hay crop rain falls on it in this position, it very

uncertain how long it may have to stand.

which was coiled on Wednesday after- often runs through it to the very bot noon might be put into the rick on Friday afternoon or Saturday forenoon .

In the meantime an equal area should

tom. Such hay should be shaken out in the first suitable day, and dried be fore being rebuilt.

HAYMAKING.

20 PERMANENT STACKING .

Haig, Dollarfield, Dollar, made some experiments in the preservation of hay,

Again it is impossible to fully de- which are worthy of being recorded here. His hay, which was grown from a mix qualify hay for removal from the field- ture of natural grasses, was cut and rick to the larger rick. It must be seen coiled in the usual way ; but instead of and handled to be learned, for without building it in field -ricks to complete the scribe in words the conditions which

both seeing and handling, it cannot be drying process as formerly, he carted it

taught. So much depends on the orig- directlyfrom the coil to his Dutch barn, inal crop, the state in which it has been which is close at hand. There it was harvested, the weather for the time built in mows or divisions in the usual

being, the size of the field-rick, and the way, between each row of pillars, with size of the large rick, that any fixed this difference, however, that wires un rules likely to be suitable for one set der heavy strain were put across each of circumstances may be quite unsuit- division whenever building was suspend ed for the day. The wires were put able when applied to others. If from 10 to 12 cwt. field -ricks have across every 15 feet of the length of the

been built, and the hay has been put shed, with planks stretching from the up in moderate condition, the weather one to the other, so as to equalise the has not been more adverse than usual,

and the large ricks are not over 6 tons, stacking may often begin in about a

pressure. By means

of this pressure from these wires, it was found that the par

fortnight after ricking ; but if the field- tially dried hay could not only be excel

ricks have been larger, say, up to a ton lently preserved, but that the pressure or over, and the hay-stack is intended to could be so regulated that fermentation conta

from 10 to 15 tons of hay or could be kept in check, and that in con

more, the stacking can rarely be safely sequence the green colour of good hay begun in less than three weeks, even

need not be destroyed.

with favourable circumstances.

sure used was that known as Johnson's

The wire pres

Premature Stacking.—Hay stacked Silage Press, which has been found to in too green a stage readily heats, oc- satisfactorilydo the work for which it is See fig. 122 , Divisional vol.

casionally moulds, and in many cases

intended .

it loses its aromatic flavour and green

ii. p . 314. Preserving the Aroma.

It need colour, getting changed to a light-brown that one any surprise way this in not smell. colour, with a musty sickening The aromatic smell of hay may be partially dried hay can be preserved ,

preserved even where much heating when we remember that

even

green

occurs (as under the English system of grass is preserved in a silo or silage

haymaking), but in that case it must stack. It will, however, surprise many not have been stacked and dried in the field -rick - it must be taken direct from the coil or windrow . The same aro-

to learn that by this method the original aroma and colour of the hay can be re

tained. The preservation of grass in a matic smell is often preserved in well- silo and half - dried hay in a stack ap pear to be attained by the very same made silage under the heated or “ sweet silage process ; but in this case it has a means — viz., the exclusion of the oxygen sweet flavour added to the original aro- of the air by subjecting the mass to matic one . By many this flavour is pressure of any kind . supposed to be caused by sweet vernal Improved Pressure. Mr Haig's

grass ; but well-made hay generally has

crop of 1887 was as well preserved in

it, although in many cases it may not

colour and aroma as the most fastidi

contain a single blade of vernal.

ous could desire, but the crop of 1888 was scarcely so good. He believed this

Preserving partially dried Hay.-

It appears, however, that hay may be was mainly to be accounted for by insuf put into the stack in a much damper con- ficient pressure being used, owing to the dition than has generally been regarded great distance between the wires. In

as safe. During the summers of 1886, 1889, the top planks were done away and three following years, Mr W. T. with, extra wires and drums being sub

HAYMAKING .

21

stituted for them, just as in a silage early and late stacking the latter is the By this means the pressure is greater. This was the view urged by certain and can be depended on, which the late Mr James Howard, who pointed stack .

in the other case it could not.

As a

result of the change, the hay of 1889 was the best he had ever made.

out that “ with the aid of an elevator, a stack which may get too warm may very readily be transferred from one side of

Utility of the System . — By this sys- the rickyard to the other, and thus cooled tem , a considerable portion of the risk down . " incurred by hay while in the field is

Straw and Hay Mixed.—The prac

done awaywith ; but whether or not the tice of interspersing imperfectly dried

system is capable of being largely ex- hay with layers of dried straw is pursued tended, remains yet to be proved. The with good results in some parts, chiefly labour of carting to the stack is greater

in wet districts.

than to the field-rick, while at the same time one handling is entirely saved. Whether or not this saving of one handling of the crop will be sufficient to

advantage in this plan. The excess of moisture in the hay is absorbed by the

There is a twofold

straw, and the interchange is beneficial to both straw. the hay and the

The for

compensate for the extra time taken mer is thus prevented from injury by up in carting the crop to the stack dur- heating, while as food for stock the

ing the intervals of sunshine, experience straw is rendered more juicy and palat alone can tell.

able. The proportions of this mixture In view, however, of the recent im- may be i ton of straw to from 3 to 6

provements in rick -lifters and horse- tonsof hay, according to the condition of forks, it is questionable if the gain is so the hay as to moisture. This plan is often adopted with advan Early v. Late Stacking . — There is tage in saving aftermath. now a pretty general consensus of opin

much as it at first appears to be.

Hay-barns.

ion to the effect that it is better to be

on the early than the late side with the

In some districts it is the custom to

stacking — that is, that of the two evils of put the hay crop, in whole or in part, in

TNISEET

Fig . 467. - Hay -shed .

Dutch barns or sheds. These are usually stock of the farm , as it must be on the buildings without sides, the roofs of which majority of farms, it is always advisable are supported on pillars, set wide enough to have a considerable portion of the apart to allow a cart loaded with hay to crop stored in sheds. For convenience, readily pass between them . Where the these sheds should be situated as close hay is to be used for the daily food of the as possible to the byres, feeding-boxes, or

HAYMAKING .

22

other buildings in which the stock are score of their forming a harbour for ver kept. Stored in such buildings the crop is min, such as mice or rats. These, how always accessible in all kinds of weather, ever, rarely do any damage in a hay and is safe from injury from storms. The stack, and tree branches are surpassed floor of the shed should be raised a few

by few other materials as stack foun

inches above the surrounding surface, and

dations.

Bosses or Flues.- In permanent as if possible filled with some dry material such as furnace-cinders, small stones, or well as temporary" ) stacks it is a good plan (

gravel; and before any hay is laid down to have · bosses, the bottom should be covered with some

kilns," or flues in the

Unless the hay has been thor

centre.

old dry straw, fern, or other rubbish, fail- oughly well made, this provision for in ing which, rough boughs and branches of ternal ventilation will be advantageous. trees do well for keeping the hay off the “ Bosses or “ kilns ” may be made of timber , as described on page 15. In damp ground The value of these hay -sheds, where many cases the flue is formed by build large quantities of hay are grown , can ing round a well-filled sack, and drawing hardly be overestimated. They have it up as the stack rises. The late Mr

been provided very extensively in Ireland, James Howard deemed it prudent, unless where, upon medium and large holdings, very sure about the condition of the hay the greater portion of the hay crop is as to dryness, to have two flues made with the sack in this way, in the centre preserved in this manner.

The hay -barns are now , as a rule, con of each nine feet from the centre of the structed entirely of iron, the roof consist- oblong stack. It is necessary, to prevent ing of sheet-iron, corrugated and galvan- its being closed by the sinking of the

ised. They are remarkably durable, and, stack, to have the flue perpendicular. Size of Stacks. On small farms, in view of the great storing capacity afforded , the outlay is indeed very mod- where the available power for forking is erate.

An excellent sample of the im- generally not over plentiful, round ricks

proved hay-barn (erected by A. and J. of 12 feet in diameter will often be Main & Co., Glasgow , Dublin, and Lon- found large enough . If the hay is quite

don ) is represented in fig. 467.

dry, it undoubtedly remains more palat

able in a larger rick ; but then thelarge Hay-stacks. rick entails extra labour and delay in Where hay-sheds have not been pro- forking. This is a drawback to building vided, the hay may be stored in round or very large ricks on small farms which oblong ricks or stacks. cannot well be avoided, at least if the Foundation of Stacks. - A good, dry, forking is to be done by hand -power. level foundation for the hay-stack is a

Moreover, there are other disadvantages

point of considerable importance. It is in large ricks, for although there is less a good plan to have the ground upon waste by them in the sides and tops, and

which these stand permanently marked less thatching to be done, still, when the off by being raised a foot or so above top is taken off, the space to be covered the surrounding surface. In mining is very large, requiring tarpaulins of un districts furnace - cinders are the best usually large dimensions, which, owing and cheapest material available for the to their extent and unwieldiness, are bed of the hay -stack. Gravel and road- liable to be damaged by wind or rough

scrapings, or burned clay, are also suit- handling. able, and where neither of these can be

easily obtained, the foundation may be raised by digging a small gutter round

The larger size of round ricks are usually made from 15 to 18 feet or even

20 feet in diameter, which, if of a corre

the base, and throwing the cleanings into sponding height, are of twice or thrice the centre. Over this may be placed old the capacity of the smaller size of ricks,

pieces of wood, which, if covered with with a corresponding decrease in outside some old straw, prevent the hay from

waste.

In the spring and early summer,

being spoiled to any appreciable extent. when small ricks get dried to their very Branches of trees in the bottoms of stacks

of grain are often objected to, on the

centre, the hay -stalks become almost as brittle as dried twigs. Those of larger

HAYMAKING .

23

ricks retain almost their original propor- while the builder is making the bottom tion of moisture.

of another.

The oblong form of stack is very general in England. The dimensions

High -forking by Hand. — When the

vary in the main, in accordance with the extent of the holding, or rather with the area under hay . A common and convenient size is lo

to 12 yards long, and 5 to 6 yards wide, while in height stacks range from 8 to 16 feet — to the eaves when settled down.

It is a common practice in many

parts of the country, in England especially, to increase the width or diameter of the stack as it rises in

height. One advantage of this is that wet dropping from the eaves falls on the ground clear of the sides of the stack .

468. Fig w.-H aggon ay

Force in Building Stacks.— The size of the rick having been arranged in accordance with the power at the farmer's command , a beginning may be made in build ing. To keep the builders and

others at the rick constantly em ployed , at least two hay-waggons or carts with harvest frames must

be employed .

Hay -waggons are

much to be preferred to carts.

Being longer and lower they are much easier loaded.

An excellent

hay -waggon, made by the Bristol Waggon Works Company, is shown in fig . 468.

Where the field is

close to the stackyard, or other place of ricking the hay (it occa sionally being ricked in the field in which it grows), one forker in the field will be able to keep both

horses going, for while the one is loading the other is unloading. One builder will be required on

the rick, who may have the assist

Na

ance of three or four men , women ,

or boys to tramp or pack the hay, and throw it to him

from the side

on which the forker deposits it. Where another man can be spared,

one should be put on to act as guide to the builder, who, while

keeping the rick in proper shape as it is being built, also assists the carters to get their ropes unloosened, rick gets too high for the forkers to be throws up any loose hay, and may or able to put up the hay, and no horse-fork may not put on the top on one rick is available, a forking-stage of some sort

HAYMAKING .

24

must be provided . The following simple The trampers scatter the forkfuls of plan is pursued in some parts. The extra hay evenly over the surface of the stack , man mounts a ladder set against the rick, and the more carefully and thoroughly and taking the loaded fork out of the this scattering is done,the more substan hands of the carter, at as great a height tial and symmetrical will be the stack. as the latter can hand it to him , he is

In this way the building continues

enabled to fork it several feet higher until the eaves of the rick are reached , than can be done by the man on the the person acting as guide all the while cart.

pulling off by his hand or the rake any To enable the second forker to get a hay which is loose or too far out. When good footing on the ladder, and yet to the top is being formed , the person act

keep the latter as nearly straight up as ing as guide will in all probability now possible, a stout plank about 8 or 9 require to go on the ladder and fork, inches wide and 4 feet or so long,should as the top of the rick will be beyond the

he thrust through the spars of the lad- power ofthe carter to pitch the hay on der, above the spar where the man is

to it.

intended to stand. By lowering the end Forking from Different Parts. - To of the plank nearest the rick, thrusting prevent the rick leaning to one side, the it through until it meets the hay, and forking should be done from as many then putting downward pressure on the positions as possible. By the continual

outward end, it is brought into an al. dropping of the hay on one side, and the most horizontal position, which is quite weight of the persons removing it always safe and easy to stand on . Standing on pressing down the hay at that place, the the plank, with his back to the ladder, stack becomes more solid there than at

a man can hoist an ordinary forkful of the other side, with the result that when hay without any danger of falling.

the rick settles down, no amount of

If the plank is not used, the inclina- propping will keep it from leaning over tion of the ladder must be much flatter in the opposite direction. SO

as to allow the man to stand on

Heading Stacks.- Before the top is

it easily and safely, and, in this case, begun to be formed, the whole outside his weight against a rick of any moder- ring should, as a rule, be made as level as

ate size would almost certainly cause it possible. If the ground is slightly slop to lean to the opposite side. The use of the horse -fork or elevator,

ing (a position which should be chosen

difficulty .

side, then the eaves-ring on the opposite

as seldom as possible ), or if the forking to be noticed presently, obviates all this has of necessity been all done from one Process of Building . - In building side should be left just a trifle higher than the rick the hay is first regularly laid in

the other.

In all other circumstances

fork -loads over the whole bottom, the the eaves-ring should be level. The first builder then puts on a ring of forkfuls ring of the top should be only slightly all round the outside, taking care to throw the ends of the hay well out. While he is doing so, his assistant may put in other forkfuls of hay behind those he lays down, so as to form an inner circle, the forkfuls of the inner circle lying partially on the outer one, and hold

6

ing them in position. The second row being finished, the centre should now be filled level with the outside circle, and on no account should it be kept hollow . The second and third courses

should

Fig . 469. - Hay hand- rake. « Wooden teeth . be Iron stays.

always project well over the first, after which the others should only project a drawn within the eaves-ring, the second very little. By following this plan less a trifle more, and the third a little more has to be pulled off the base to make still, after which the decrease in width it firm . should be regular. As soon as the third

HAYMAKING .

25

ring and hearting have been completed, smaller stacks. Where more forkers than the builder should go round the whole one are employed in the field, of course top with a rake ( fig. 469), head down- more carters will be required, as well as

wards, and rake the head into proper more persons on the rick to receive it from shape. This done, the finishing of the them. As a rule, however, there is only top may be continued .

one main builder, who puts on the outside

As the apex is approached, all should courses, while there may or may not be leave the top of the rick except the another, who attends to the second or

builder, who even alone will havebarely inside rings, while others spread and room to stand. After laying on every throw the hay across. couple of courses or so, he should careBuilding Oblong Stacks. — Oblong fully rake the roof. Towards the end ricks or stacks are, as a rule, built in sec the forker should be careful to put up tions, in length usually from two to three

only very small forkfuls, and at the fin-

times the breadth of the stack.

It

Propping Stacks. — In building either

is very desirable that this should be at-

round or oblong stacks, particularly those

ishing touches only mere handfuls.

tended to, as in the building of a rick small in diameter, short props should be

few things are more harassing or provok- put in whenever a height of 6 or 7 feet ing to the builder than to have large has been reached, and another set as soon forkfuls sent up, when there is not suffi-

as io or 12 feet is attained .

cient room for them .

Height of Stacks. The height of the The apex having been reached , the haystack may be arranged to suit the

builder should carefully clear away any taste and convenience of the farmer. It is contended by some that, as a rule, the loose hay lying on the roof. Roping Hay-stacks. - A couple of eaves when built should be in height at ropes should now be passed at right least twice the diameter of the stack at angles to each other over the top, and a the ground. Most farmers make their half-brick hung to each end. Weights ricks much lower than this, because they of any kind, hung to the end of the are not possessed of sufficient power to

but when it is remem ropes, are much to be preferred to tying put them higher; stack may contain twice When bered thata high the rick settles down, the tied rope be- as much hay as a low one, while the comes slack and does little good, whereas thatching is almost the same, the gain by the other method the strain on the of having moderately high stacks will be obvious. This is more particularly rope is always the same. the end to the side of the rick.

Form of Stackhead . When the the case when the extra height can be heads of ricks are built as already de- obtained at little or no extra cost, as scribed, the top should have the outline where the horse -fork is in use. of an open umbrella : it should be flat Improved Hay-stacking Appliances. test from the apex two-thirds down, and then more steep, because from the apex Important improvements have lately

until half -way down the roof, the thatch

been made in the vicinity of Glasgow in

the methods of carting and stacking of falls on that particular part, whereas hay. further down the thatch has not only Rick -lifters . — For several years prior the rain which falls on itself to convey, to 1886, what are termed rick-lifters had but likewise the rain that has fallen on been use in the uplands between Strath aven in Lanarkshire and Stewarton in the part above. has little more rain to carry off than

By making the roof of this form, an- Ayrshire - appliances for lifting ricks in There is much the field and bringing them entire into less hay, proportionately speaking, in the the stackyard. These consist of a flat

other gain is obtained.

narrow part under the apex, and as this body, with shafts and tipping arrange part is often more injured by drying ments ( similar to those in use on a tip than any other portion, the form recom- cart), mounted on two wheels 2 feet in mended reduces the loss to the minimum . diameter. Across the front of this low, Large Stacks.— The building of large broad, and flat cart is placed an iron ricks is, of course, very similar to that of roller, with lever and ratchet-wheel at

HAYMAKING .

26

tached to one end. To the centre of this roller the ends of two stout ropes or

it close into the rick.

Meanwhile the

attendant raises the hay forming the

light chains are attached , at the outer base of the rick from the ground, to per end of which are hooks for joining the mit of the edge getting better under it : one to the other.

the ropes are now unwound from the

When it is desired to put on a rick on this apparatus, the tipping arrangement is unlocked, the back end dropped on the ground, and the horse then backs

roller and passed round behind the rick, where they are joined and made firm , about 9 inches above the ground. The lever and ratchet are then brought into

CITY CU

Fig . 470. - Wallace's hay-sledge, empty.

pay, and the rope coiled on the roller.

front of the roller is reached, by which

As the strain becomes greater on the rol- time the weight is generally heavy ler, the edge of the rick -lifter is grad- enough in front of the wheels to cause ually pressed in under the rick. At the body of the apparatus to drop down about a foot or 18 inches under, it re- on the shafts, where it is locked . mains stationary, and as the attendant Rick-lifters made by John Wallace &

continues to wind in the rope, the rick Sons, Graham Square, Glasgow , and A.

is seen to move, and from that forward Pollock, Mauchline, Ayrshire, are shown to glide gently up the incline until the in figs. 470, 471 , 472, and 473.

CITY CO .

Fig. 471. - W'allace's hay -sledge, in the act of loading :

This apparatus, if carefully worked, from five to seven minutes is all that generally lifts all the rick without any

is required to draw a field - rick on to

trouble, brings it to the stackyard in the lifter. its original position, and there, by un-

Defect in the System . — When, how

locking the tipping arrangement, drops ever , the stack became so high that one it in its former upright position. With man could with difficulty pitch the hay this apparatus the bottom of a stack on to it from the ground , it was found could be much more easily built than by that no advantage was gained, because first building the hay on carts, because two were required to fork in the stack

HAYMAKING .

27

Fig. 472. - Wallace s hay -sledge, with loaa

yard ; whereas with carts, and one man yard, an equal height could be attained. in the field and the carter in the stack- For this reason, therefore, the original

Fig. 473. – Pollock's hay.sledge.

Horse -forks. — In the spring of 1886, rick - lifters made little progress, and were it occurred to Mr John Speir, Newton to be found only on isolated farms.

28

HAYMAKING .

Farm, Glasgow, that this defect might be reduced to a minimum . Arrangements

removed ifthis apparatus were strength- were atonce made for procuring a couple ened and improved and used in connec- of rick -lifters and a horse- fork of the most

tion with one of the many classes of improved pattern, and after thorough horse -forks or elevators so largely used trial, the results fully justified the antic in America, and also employed on many ipations which had been formed . farms in England and elsewhere in this Types of Horse -forks. — Horse -forks country.

He believed that double the

are of various patterns.

value would be got out of each apparatus fairly well answer the

Most of them

purpose for which

when combined that was possible when they were designed, but they are often used separately, because the horse-fork found unsuitable where the circumstances could only do the forking in the yard, are altered . A horse-fork, to raise hay leaving that in the field to be done as from ricks brought in by the rick -lifter, formerly. With the rick -lifter, the field- must be so designed that it will easily

forking was done away with, and with and speedily enter the solid hay of the the horse -fork that in the stackyard was rick ; and if it is to be used for working

C

o p &

d

d

Fig. 474.-Horse-pitchfork . 11 At work .

c The fork ready to lift the hay.

b The fork ready for pushing into the hay

d Pulleys.

inside a hay-shed, it must, besides, be

Working Directions. The following

Thus forks which were

are the directions for working this fork

small in size.

specially designed for working loose hay and elevator : Fix two rick-poles, one were found useless for solid ricks.

Few

considerably higher than the other, firmly

forks are so perfect as to work equally in the ground (and well stayed by guy

well under allcircumstances, so that some ropes), the shorter at the end of the care is required in purchasing these most stack, the other at a sufficient distance useful articles. The most serviceable fork to allow of the waggons being unloaded is one suitable for either outside ricks or midway between the two.

sheds, and capable of lifting from the Fix one pulley at the top, the other solid field - rick . near the bottom of the high pole. The The construction and working of one rope, which should be seven -eighths of

of these horse-forks — the single harpoon- an inch in diameter, must pass through fork

made by Coleman & Morton, these two pulleys, then through the swivel-hook pulley, which is to carry the

Chelmsford , are well shown in the accompanying illustrations , fig. 474.

fork and stretch across to the other pole,

HAYMAKING .

29

on which it must be made fast, so that sufficiently high for the pulley to slide along the rope to the desired spot over when tight it inclines toward the stack.

A whippletree for a trace - horse is the stack. attached to the other end of the rope.

In unloading the hay the sliding pulley

While the fork is thus elevated, the hand-cord attached to the small eccentric

is drawn down to the top of the load ; lever must be pulled by the man in the the man using the fork presses it into waggon, when the hay will be instantly

the hay as far as possible by the lever ; discharged upon the stack. See fig. the lever is then brought into a perpen

474, a.

dicular position, so that the point of the There should be a difference of about fork forms a right angle (see fig. 474, c); 10 feet between the height of the two the fork is hooked to the pulley, and the poles when fixed .

horse being started , the hay is raised

In unloading, the fork should be in

ce

Orr

Fig. 475. - Wallace's horse hay - fork.

serted alternately in the back and front

or three.

part of the load.

portion of hay, the mere matter of the

When dropped open on to a

Double harpoon forks, like an inverted horse raising it forces the points together, a firm hold of the hay being thus secured . U, are largely used in America. Clip - fork . – For lifting hay from solid An arrangement exists by which the

ricks some prefer what is known as the prongs can be pulled asunder at any clip-fork, the principle of which is the instant by a person standing on the same as a mason or quarryman's shears ground, so that the load of hay can be for lifting stones by a crane, except that instantaneously dropped anywhere and while the mason's shears have only one at any time.

prong on either side, the hay-fork has two

The working of Wallace's hay clip -fork

HAYMAKING .

30

is shown in fig. 475 — John Wallace & that the stack has not the same tendency to settle down at one side more than Sons, Graham Square, Glasgow . Elevating Apparatus . A simple another, as it would have if the hay and convenient arrangement for hoist- were forked by hand. A certain num ing the hay is to ve a pole about 35 ber of persons can also distribute regu

feet high, which is held in upright posi- larly over the stack a much greater tion by three or four guy -ropes from the quantity of hay when forked by the top of the pole to iron pins driven into horse-fork than by hand, because it is

the ground. A short " jib ” or “ gaff," always dropped just where wanted , and 10 feet long or so, is arranged to slide they do not require to spend their time down the pole, being worked by carrying it from one part to another.

up . and

pulleys from the ground.

The fork is

A Good Day's Work.— The horse

attached to an inch rope which passes fork can quite as easily lift hay from

over a pulley at the point of the jib an ordinary hay-waggon or cart as from or gaff, thence down the upper surface the ground ; and where there are not as of the gaff to its lower end, where it many rick -lifters as will keep it going, a passes over another pulley, from which portion of the hay, if desired, may be it runs down the side of the pole to about brought in by carts. On a moderate 3 feet from the ground, where it passes sized farm each rick -lifter will bring in through the pole and under a pulley

from 10 to 15 field-ricks per day, even

fixed in it, where it is attached to the where each may weigh from 15 cwt. to tree or chains by which a horse draws 20 cwt., the load being pulled on all the up the forkful, as shown in fig. 474, a . The pole is set up with a slight lean

newer patterns by the horse instead of the man. Going a moderate distance,

to the rick which is being built, so that therefore, each carter may be supposed to as soon as the ascending load has been

be able to bring in about 10 tons of hay

raised above the portion already built, daily ; and three rick - lifters, although the gaff or jib with its load always swings they will be sufficient to bring in the round over the top of the stack, where hay of most farms, will not keep the

it can be dropped on almost any part of fork going if there are sufficient people on the stack to build it.

even a large stack . Hay Elevator.

If three rick

Many prefer the lifters are in use, at least one man build web - elevator to the horse-fork in the ing, and three women or men spreading, stacking of hay. The working of this will be required on the rick, one man elevator is shown in fig. 174, p. 452 , will be necessary to act as guide, another Divisional volume ii .

It is there drawn

will be required at the fork , and a woman

in connection with a steam threshing- or boy to lead the horse, while an extra machine, but its adaptability to the

woman will be required in the field to

stacking of hay will be readily under- rake up the bottoms and assist in putting stood from the illustration . In stacking on the ropes. There are thus engaged

bring hay the web or carrying apparatus may six men and six women , who may rick from

be worked by a single-horse gear. The from the field and build in the hay is thrown on to the bottom of the 25 to 30 tons or over of hay daily -- this, elevator and carried in a continuous too, with very little exertion to any of stream to the desired height, the ele- them compared with what would be

vator being constructed so that, in tele- necessary were the hay lifted by hand A single horse - fork has been

scope position, its length may be cur-

forks.

tailed or increased . Advantages of the Horse-fork .--

known to put up 50 tons of hay in one

The great speed in forking is not the only merit of the horse -fork. Stacks

day. Horse - fork Working in Sheds.

Where the hay is stored in sheds, and it is desired to use the horse-fork, a different

built by the horse-fork are more easily kept perpendicular than those built from arrangement from that already described hand -forking. With the horse-fork the must be adopted. A stout wire, one forkfuls are regularly discharged only half-inch in diameter, is stretched tightly where they are wanted , and where the builder is working for the time being, so

about a foot under the apex of the roof, from the one end of the building to the

HAYMAKING.

31

other. On this wire runs a small carriage ing and another at the fork, and neither on two wheels, under which is a pulley.

of them need be able - bodied.

The

The rope from the horse comes in at one builder, indeed, is the only person re end of the shed, passes up between guide- quiring to exert much strength, as the pulleys to the pulley under the carriage, horses now load the rick - lifters as well over which it passes.

In this case a

as fork the hay.

pulley of a peculiar shape must be at tached to the top of the fork, and the

Dressing Stacks.

After a hay-stack, or the hay stored in a rope from the carriage passes under this pulley and back to the carriage,to which shed, has been standing for three or four it is knotted . When the fork has been days, the sides should be carefully hand

loaded, and the horse moves forward, the pulled. Before beginning , all props should be load is raised perpendicularly until the be taken away, so that the work may om

top of the pulley over the fork strikes more accurately done. The bott or a spring on the carriage, when a catch base of the stack should be pulled as

which has hitherto held it in position is firmly as possible, as the hay gets relieved, and the carriage, with its load damaged very quickly if it is allowed hanging from the under side, is pulled to rest on the damp ground. Any parts along the wire until any particular divi- of the sides which have a greater pro sion of the shed has been reached, where- jection than the rest should be pulled

upon the attendant drops the load, and pulls back the fork. The arrangement is very neat, and admirable in working. Although some modification of it is in use in almost every hay-barn in America, very few are yet employed in this country. Since, however, the combination of the

down until the whole is alike. If the stack has been well built at first, and has not been allowed to lean over to one

side, the pulling is neither a difficult nor a tedious process. If, however, the stack

has been badly built, is too far out at one part and too far in at another, or

rick -lifter and horse -fork was adopted leans over in one direction, almost no in 1886 by Mr Speir, Newton, its use amount of pulling will make it a good

has extended rapidly . Mr Speir first one . At most all that can be made of used his combination of the rick-lifters it is to give it a fairly respectable ap and horse -fork early in the hay harvest pearance , and reduce its outside waste of 1886, and before the end of the season as far as possible. another set was introduced. In 1887 If stacks are not pulled after they about ten sets were working ; these were have consolidated, there is such an

probably doubled in 1888, and probably amount of loose hay on the outside that again doubled in 1889. Horse - forks for Small Farmers.-

by exposure to the weather it becomes so badly damaged as to be almost use

In this country the capabilities of the less. On the other hand, if the stack is horse -fork are as yet only partially un- well built and carefully pulled, the loss derstood . It has only been on the is reduced to a minimum . After pulling, largest farms where as a rule they have such a number of props should be re

been introduced ; yet as a matter of fact turned as are necessary for the stack, they are a much greater gain to the considering its width, height, and ac small farmer than the larger one. The acy ld cur

of bui

.

No more should be

small farmer could bring in the hay with used , however, than are absolutely indis one rick - lifter, unyoke his horse, and

fork it up with the assistance of another person to lead the horse or build, as the person who leads the horse can easily

pensable. Other Methods.

Besides the methods of harvesting hay enough work the fork also. Or, if more just described, many others, differing from convenient, the small farmer may bring these in a lesser or greater degree, are in two or three ricks, place them down as pursued throughout the country. conveniently as possible, and then fork Irish Haymaking. - In Ireland, them afterwards. With the assistance where a very large area is occupied by

of four persons in all, he may keep two the hay crop, there is great variety in rick-lifters going, have one person build- the systems of haymaking. The moist

HAYMAKING .

32

climate prevailing there compels the run into win -rows by women with graips, Irish farmer to resort to many devices and put into small hand -cocks and then to secure his hay crops in safety. In into tramp-ricks ; but the introduction of the natural meadows the tedder is em-

mowers and the American tilting-rake

ployed freely, and as soon as at all pos- has lessened the manual work in the sible this hay is put into tolerably large hay -field. cocks or coils, and thence into the hay-

Stacking . “ When the hay is ready

barn - a valuable institution, nowhere in for ricking, one of these American rakes this country so fully appreciated or so is started about an hour earlier than largely utilised as in the Emerald Isle. the others, to get some hay gathered into Rye - grass and clover hay is made, for the most part, as already described .

win -rows. In this district and I think

the practice is more common north of

Very often in Ireland the hay has, on the Forth - hay is put into tramp-ricks account of the prevalence of drizzling of 80 to 120 stones of 22 lb. , with a kiln rain and the absence of good drying weather, to lie long on the fields after it

in the centre.

has been cut and before it can be stacked

long, bolted at top, and making a tri

or stored in sheds.

angle at foot, with sides at least 3 feet

In this way more

“ A kiln or boss is three sticks 10 feet

hay is unavoidably lost or injured in long, and kept firm by three straps on each Ireland than in England and Scotland

side.

As many of the bosses as will be

put together. By the employment of required are laid out over the field at more expeditious and improved methods regular intervals, and are set up by the of handling the hay, and the introduction stackers. of the hay-barn for the storing of it, the “ A very good practice is to spread a loss in the fields has been very consider-

large bunch of straw below each rick .

ably curtailed. The hay harvest, how- This saves the hay from getting damp or ever, is still a time of great anxiety to

mouldy.

Irish farmers.

“ A second American rake is used to draw the hay to where the rick is to be

Fifeshire Practice.

formed, and when the rick is bottomed,

The system of making and stacking hay — principally rye - grass and clover hay — pursued in Fifeshire and many other parts of the country, is described below by Mr William Morton, North

the builder gets on the stack and builds the rick in the shape of a cone. Two American rakes, one win -rowing, the other drawing to the stacks, will keep two builders and six forkers going, and

Lambieletham , St Andrews. 1 Making the Hay.- “ After being cut,

to rake behind - the American rake col

an ordinary horse -rake will be required

the grass is allowed to lie one day in

lecting these as the work proceeds. “The ricks are carefully and firmly heavy crop and thick with clover, it is raked down and tied with ropes, and are turned over by passing a hoe or fork left for three or four weeks before being handle below the thick side of the put into large stacks or ‘ hay - sows' as swathe.

On the second day, if a very

swathe. This allows the thick part of the swathe to be exposed to the sun. Half - a - dozen hands soon turn over a

large breadth of hay, and using blunt implements avoids breaking the fibre of the hay. Should the weather be very fine, this hay will be ready for trampcoling in the afternoon or next morning, whenever the dew is off the grass. A

fancy dictates.

Heating.— “ Although we do not ap prove of heating hay, as is usual in Eng land, we think a little fermentation does it no harm if caused by the natural sap ; and we would rather put up hay green than over -dried. Tramp - ricks v.

Cocks.

" The ad

vantages of putting hay into tramp little natural moisture does hay no harm , ricks at once instead of into hand -cocks

rather good ; but to put it together with either rain or dew on it is very injurious.

first and then into the tramp - ricks, or direct into stacks after standing a longer

In the days of the seythe it used to be time, are that it saves twice handling, and leaves much less surface exposed . | Parming World Year -Book, 1889.

In the past season I put a small piece of

HAYMAKING .

33

hay into hand-ricks, as the weather was aged by scorching as by drenching. In

very broken. I thought it too green for hot, bright weather, therefore, too great care cannot be exercised in seeingthat the crop is not left too long exposed to tramp-ricks the before of four tons, long sun before being put into of the were secured, there was much more lost the rays On the other hand, it is prover tramp-ricks ; and when put into stacks

hay in the bottoms, showing the ad- cocks . vantage of the plan usually followed .

bial that after fine, hot weather, more

“ Although many put up their hay in haystacks become heated than after un tramp-ricks without bosses, still a boss is favourable seasons. Caution, therefore, a great advantage, as the hay is always has to be exercised against both over in better order, and can be secured earlier. The boss prevents the rick

making and under-making.” Horse -rakes . — Since first introduced,

from settling down so quickly, and there horse- rakes have been vastly improved. is consequently less risk of heating or The best patterns are now very capacious, efficient, and durable.

mould ."

General Notes.

In a wonderful

manner they expedite the work of hay making. In referring to the best types

Judgment in Making. — The process of horse-rakes for collecting hay, Mr James of “ haymaking,” as has already been Howard stated that it was his own prac more than once pointed out, cannot be so described in words as to reliably guide

tice to use a horse-rake of the greatest capacity for this purpose. He did this

the uninitiated. Observation and prac- for the reason that if a horse-rake with

tical experience are absolutely essential tines of small capacity is used, the hay is for the training of the man intrusted In modifying the practices in accordance with weather changes, and in deciding when the hay is in a fit state for advancing a stage in the process of harvesting, above all, perhaps, in determining when the final step of stacking can be taken, experiencemust

with haymaking.

compressed to a very undesirable extent. From long observation he was satisfied that the most useful and efficient horse rake for most purposes upon a farm , and especially for drawing grass into heaps for cocking, is one with very capacious tines. When horse-rakes were emptied of their load by hand, weight and size of

ever be regarded as the most reliable tine were important considerations, but guide.

now that the power of the horse instead

Fitness for Stacking. — The indi- of theman is employed forrelieving them cations of fitness of the crop for stack- of their load , there is not the same reason

ing or for putting into large cocks for restricting the size of the tines. Advantage of Speedy Appliances. are well enough understood by practical men . The smell and feel are the — The advantages of using expeditious main considerations. The smell of well- labour -saving appliances in haymaking made hay is quite characteristic. If are strongly enforced by all experienced damp in the feel, the hay is unfit. If hay-farmers. clover breaks readily on being twisted, it

Mr Howard remarked : “ The object of

is regarded as ready for stacking ; if it a good manager will be possible, to get hisespeci hay bends rather than breaks, and juice exudes into cocks speedily as

as

from the stems, it is held to be insuffi- ally upon the appearance of a storm ; he ciently “ made." should therefore be provided not only

Over -making.--- The importance of with the right kind of implements for guarding against the over-making of hay the purpose, but with a sufficient number. is another point which demands careful

.

I have known many a crop ruined,

Mr James Howard remarked not only from an insufficient number of that whilst the skilful haymaker will be hands being employed, but from depend solicitous that his crop should be well ence upon a single implement when two,

attention .

made, he will on the other hand be at least, were necessary or desirable. . “ In the clearing of the ground and in hot weather there is a great danger of loading, much economy of time may be this happening. It should be remem- effected . For instance, in the case of anxious that it is not over - made : “ In

bered that a crop may be as much dam- three full sets loading togetherс with a VOL . III.

HAYMAKING .

34

pair of pitchers and one loader to each when stacking hay in the open field or cart or waggon, nine rakers to follow , if yard is to be commended, especially in hand -labour has to be resorted to, would

unsettled seasons and wet districts. One

be required to keep the work well up ; form of erecting these cloths, long pur sued, is shown in fig. 480. Modern in genuity has devised various methods of erection, more or less convenient. These cloths are of great service in

protecting a partially built stack from showers of rain . When a rick - cloth has not been Devid

BOBO

DOWNSINITEENUSE

provided, large waterproof tarpaulins should be athand, to be drawn over unfinished stacks to protect them from a sudden downpour of rain . Salting and Spicing Hay.

Ko

Fig. 476.— The “ Star " horse-rake.

It is

a common practice - and in many cases a good one- to scatter a little

common salt amongst hay while it is whereas if the horse- rake is employed , being stacked . When hay is in a damp or first to clear the space between the rows, badly made condition, in consequence of and subsequently to follow the carts and waggons, the nine rakers are dis pensed with, and their services avail able for the stacking or other work.

The loading will also go on more ex peditiously, as the pitchers will not have to wait for the rakers to un

burden their drags."

Excellent types of improved horse rakes are shown in figs. 476, 477, and

478, made respectively by Ransome, Sims, & Jeffries, Ipswich ; Howard, Bedford ; and Jeffrey & Blackstone, Stamford. Hay - collectors.

Fig. 478.--- The “ Stamford " horse-rake.

- Another very

useful form of an appliance for collect- bad weather, salt is an excellent remedy

ing hay is represented in fig . 479. This against mouldiness. It is sown by hand builders upon every portion improved collector is made by the East by the tramped down . The quantity used

should correspond to the state of the hay, and must be left to discretion .

Perhaps 14 bushel to a ton is enough . Salt renders the ill - made hay more

palatable to stock. “Hay spice,” ad mirably suited for the sweetening of musty hay, is now offered by several firms. It is extensively used instead of salt, and is sown in stacking in the same way.

Fig. 477. - Howard's horse-rake.

Threshing Hay.

Yorkshire Cart and Waggon Co., Bever-

The practice of taking seed from rye

ley. The beam is of wood, and the teeth grass hay is pursued to a considerable tubular wrought-iron with solid welded extent throughout the country. The points.

portion to be threshed is left uncut until

Rick - cloths. — The use of rick -cloths the seed is almost ripe. Rye-grass seed ,

HAYMAKING.

35

however, is very easily dislodged from

tice to tie the hay into sheaves, and set

its stalk, and it is advisable on this ac-

them in stooks for a few days to dry.

count to cut just before the seed is quite After that, the sheaves are built in hand cocks, and when these are sufficiently

ripe.

When mown, it is a common prac- dry, they are either taken to be threshed

Fig. 479. -Hay.collector.

by the threshing-machine, or are threshed on the ground. In using the threshingmachine for this purpose, it is troublesome to clean it effectually. Some think

be done in the stack -yard, but the work ismost quickly done in the field. Fig. 481 represents the particulars of this operation in a graphic but somewhat

it therefore a better plan to thresh the antiquated picture. crop in the field by the flail. It could An outside door

answers

for

the

Fig. 480.—Mode of erecting a rick -cloth over a hay -stack when being built. a a Wooden spars.

a to a Top -rope. cccGuy-ropes from side to side

of a stack .

bb Guy-ropes from end to end of stack .

d d Blocks and tackle . e Rick - cloth .

ſ Reef-points of cord .

threshing -floor, and at both ends is set is spread under the gate to receive seed. upon a cushion of hay, which gives elas- The hand-cocks containing the sheaves ticity to the stroke of the flail. A field- are sometimes brought to the threshing gate is cushioned similarly in continua- floor by one horse, which is yoked to them tion of the door, and the large barn -sheet by the haims attached to a cart-rope pass

KING

HAYMA

36

.

ing round the base of the cock. When pulls the threshed hay with a long fork the horse pulls, the cock slides upon the upon the field -gate, over which she ground to its place of destination.

shakes it, and another field -worker re

Others consider this an objectionable moves the shaken hay with a fork from method, and would use a hay-cart, or sledge, or stack -lifter.

the gate to the ground . The threshers occasionally clear the

A field -worker loosens the sheaves and door of seed with their flails upon the pitches them upon the door with a fork, gate, through the spars of which it col with the seed end towards herself.

lects on the barn -sheet below.

When

Two men, one on each side of the the spars are filled, the seed is carried to door, use the flail. Another field -worker, a heap, and riddled by a field -worker at the junction of the door and field -gate, upon a sheet preparatory to being put

104

m

Fig. 481.— Threshing rye -grass seed in the field , either in sheaf or in bulk . a Horse bringing hand-cocks. g Worker removing the threshed 1 Heap of hay-seed . b Raker.

c Worker supplying hay to threshers.

de Threshers .

f Worker shaking threshed hay over the field -gate.

hay from the gate.

h Heap ofthreshed hay. i Worker building coll as a man forks the hay . k Barn -sheet on which a worker is riddling hay-sced .

into sacks, to be carried to the corn -barn

m Sacked hay -seed. no Finished colls of threshed hay. p Ladder. r Spare rake . Provisions.

The seed will more quickly part with

and winnowed.

its impurities in the winnowing, after it The threshed hay is forked by a man has lain for some days to dry and win

to the field -worker upon the rick, which she builds in the form of a pike. A

on the barn - floor.

After it is winnowed ,

it should be stored in the granary to dry. ladder is used to come down from the When sufficiently dry, it should be win rick : a basket and bottles indicate that nowed in the granary, measured , and

a drink of beer is acceptable to the laid thicker together ; and in spring it workers in warm weather. Thus, if one should again be winnowed, and freed part of this busy band of workers sup- from the many fresh impurities which

plies the other with sufficient materials, have found their way into it during the the work goes on pleasantly and without winter, such as cats' and vermin's dung, collision.

cobwebs from the roof, and dust. What

HAYMAKING .

37

ever proportion of the seed is not re- fans of numerous patterns were brought

quired for the use of the farm may be out, costing in most cases about £14 disposed of to a seed -merchant or farmer. or £ 15. As is often the case with A fair crop of rye -grass, even when not new devices, great hopes were raised too much ripened , should yield about by these inventions. They excited much 26 bushels of seed to an imperial acre interest and attracted many enthusiastic when thus treated . advocates, who assured farmers that at The Flail. This antiquated and last their trials and losses of harvest once most serviceable tool is now rarely were at an end. Alas ! it was little

seen in any part of the country. It con-

better than a dream ,

sists of two parts,

failed under the crucial test of practical work. They never came into general

the

hand - staff or

helve, and the supple or beater, fig. 482 . The hand -staff is a light rod of ash about 5 feet in length , slightly in creased in breadth at the farther ex

tremity, where it is perforated for the passage of the thongs that bind the beater to it. The beater is

a rod of from 30 to Fig. 482. - Hand -fail. 36 inches in length ,

Both systems

use, and it is rare now to hear of either the one or the other.

Ensilage preferred . There are no doubt certain merits in these methods of

artificial drying which are capable of

being usefully developed and utilised. In public favour, however, they have been entirely displaced by the more reliable and more practical system of ensilage. Unlike the Gibbs and the

Neilson system , ensilage has in the most handsome manner fulfilled the great things said of it by its pioneers. It has indeed done more. In the chapter

specially devoted to " Ensilage " (Divi made of ash, though a more compact sional volume ii. , pp. 306-327 ), it has

wood, as thorn , is less likely to split ;

been shown that in the hands of Brit

and to prevent this disintegration of the ish experimenters, ensilage has devel wood, the beater should be constructed oped even greater merits than its ear to fall upon the edge of the segmental liest advocates in this country claimed portions of the reed of the wood , which

for it.

It is more than probable, therefore, that is easily accomplished in its formation. The usual form of the beater is cylindri- the unequivocal success of ensilage is to cal, the diameter being from 1/4 to 112 some extent accountable for the speedy

inch. For the most part it is attached disappearance of the Gibbs and the to the hand-staff by a thong of hide un- Neilson systems from the arena of public tanned : eel-skins make a strong durable attention. Reading Trials . — It was at the Royal thong. English Show at Reading in 1882, that Artificial Hay-drying. the Gibbs and the Neilson systems were

Soon after the disastrously wet, sunless submitted to the fatal ordeal. With the summer of 1879, a considerable amount of attention was given to the devising and testing of appliances for the artificial drying of hay. Hot Air and Neilson Systems.Two systems attained wide notoriety.

view of having the practical utility of these systems put to the test, Mr Martin John Sutton, of the well-known firm of Messrs Sutton & Sons, seedsmen , Read

ing, offered for the acceptance of the Royal Agricultural Society a prize of

These were Gibbs's hot-air method and

100 guineas for “ the most efficient and

Neilson's exhaust-fan system . The former, the invention of Mr Gibbs, of Gillwell Park, Essex, involved the use of a huge, unhandy apparatus, costing about £350. For the Neilson system ,

economical method of drying hay or corn crops artificially, either before or after being stacked .” The prize was accepted by the Society, and the outcome was the trial of Gibbs's Hot-air Dryer, and of

the inventor of which was Mr Neilson eleven different fans designed to work

of Halewood Farm , near Liverpool, the Neilson system , and of a system for

38

HAYMAKING .

ventilating the stack by the assistance of in effectually drying the corn in the stack .”

hot air.

Results.—The results were disappointAs to Mr Kite's system of ventilation ing all round ; so much so, indeed, that in the stack, the judges reported that it the judges reported that they did not “ was not successful in its application, feel justified in awarding the prize.” 1 and that they did not think it had “ any Conclusions as to Gibbs's system. practical value.” -In reference to the trial of Gibbs's hotThe practical failures of the Gibbs and air appliance, which was tried first on Neilson systems render it unnecessary meadow -hay and afterwards on sewage- to devote space here to a description of

grass, the judges remark : " In the first their working. Nevertheless it may be trial, which was made under fairly favour interesting to notice very briefly their able conditions, the exhibitor failed to leading characteristics.

make hay of as good quality as might Gibbs’s Hay Dryer . — The following have been made in similar weather description of MrGibbs's Hay Dryer is without any artificial means.

The

from the pen of Mr Anderson, consult

of the second trial, which was upon ing engineer of the Royal Agricultural sewage rye-grass, was more satisfactory, Society of England : and we are of opinion that on sewage-

This machine consists of a furnace

farms, where rye-grass has to be converted for heating air, and a fan for propelling into hay, the machine might be a useful it into the haymaking-machine, which is auxiliary; but that, even if the results an arrangement by which the damp hay obtained were more certainly and com- is agitated, while a current of hot air is

pletely effectual than they have proved driven through it to dry it. The machine to be, the prime cost of the machine is driven by an eight-horse portable engine

[about £ 350)would place it beyond the by means of a belt. On the fan-spindle reach of ordinary farmers, while the is keyed a driving -pulley, 23 inches in difficulty of its removal would be a diameter by 9 inches wide, and a fan 5 serious obstacle to its general use. ” Conclusions as to the Neilson System . - In regard to this system , the

feet 4 inches in diameter by 21 inches wide, with four blades and inlets 24 inches in diameter. The fan is sur

judges concluded their report as follows: rounded by a sheet-iron casing, and the “ The various adaptations of the Neilson inlets are enclosed with similar material, system exhibited have been tried on and formed on each side into a furnace

meadow -hay in the stack , and three of about 8 feet long and 2 feet wide. On the most powerfulfans, exhibited by Mr the grates of these furnaces coke is Coultas, Messrs Lister & Co., and Mr burned, and the products of combustion Phillips, were afterwards tested upon are forced by the fan through a sheet- iron

barley stacks. The result, as regards trunk, 2 feet 2 inches by 2 feet, into the hay, can in no case be considered satis- drying-machine, the supply being regu

factory, taking into consideration all the lated by a throttle-valve, and the tem circumstances under which the hay was put together. None of the exhibitors proved that they were able to make good hay in wet weather. In a few

perature ascertained by a pyrometer. The whole apparatus is carried on a pair of iron wheels, 48 inches in diameter by 7 inches wide, and provision is made for

instances, where fairly good hay was ob- attaching a pair of shafts to the furnace tained, equally good, if not better, hay end of the fan - case.

A spark - guard,

might have been secured without the made of sheet-iron, rests on the ground, application of fans. The trials of the and encloses completely the lower portion three selected fans upon corn were even

of the fan - casing.

On the side of the

less satisfactory than those upon hay, none of the machines having succeeded 1 An exhaustive and interesting report of

casing opposite to the driving -pulley a bevel - pinion is keyed on to the fan spindle, and this gears into a bevel-wheel about three times its diameter, keyed on these trials, written by Mr W. C. Little, the to a shaft at right angles to the fan judge, appears in vol. xviii., sec. ser., reporting of the Journal ofthe Royal Agricultural Society spindle, and connected

to an inclined

of England , part ii. pp . 643-728.

shaft by means of a universal joint; the

HAYMAKING .

other end of the shaft is connected by a

39

“ Over the ridge of the screen is a

similar joint to the driving -gear of the sheet - iron flue, divided longitudinally haymaking-machine. down the centre, so as to make two paral « The haymaking machine is about 27 lel flues, and these are connected to the feet long by 8 feet wide.

It consists of fan and fitted with regulators, so that the

a framing or skeleton trough, which, at about 6 feet from the gearing end, rests upon a pair of wooden wheels, 48 inches in diameter by 6 inches wide, while the other end is suspended from wrought-iron skeleton standards resting independently on the ground , and fitted at their upper

hot air may be distributed uniformly on both sides of the screen. The flue is sup ported on adjusting screws, so arranged that the distance of its edge from the screen may be varied at pleasure. " The inclined shaft from the fan -case

gives motion, by means of a pinion and

ends with chain - pulleys, and at their wheel, to a crank - shaft which crosses lower with chain -drums actuated by tan- under the trough of the machine at its gent gear. By means of this arrange- extreme end, and actuates a connecting

ment any desired inclination may be rod which communicates a reciprocating given to the frame. The trough or frame motion to the screen . The crank-shaft carries a sheet- iron screen, made like the also, at its further end, communicates its ridge of a roof, with a rise of about 1 foot

motion to an upright shaft placed at the

9 inches, and capable of having a reciprocating motion communicated to it, by means of a crank having a 9-inch throw. To facilitate this motion, the screen is carried on three pairs of 8 -inch rollers keyed on to shafts which cross the trough, and revolving on bearings secured to its

extreme end and on one side of the trough ; and this upright, by means of bevel-wheels, actuates the multiple crank shaft which works the prongs. On the opposite side of the machine is a similar arrangement, deriving its motion more directly from the crank -shaft from the

sides.

fan .

“ To each side of the trough is fixed a

“ The rate of traverse of the hay while

framework consisting of seven uprights it is being dried depends upon the incli connected together at their tops.

These

nation given to the screen and to the

carry , on each side of the machine, a lateral set given to the prongs." Neilson System . - The working of crank -shaft of 18 throws, and each throw carries a prong 3 feet long, projecting this system is exceedingly simple . “ By means of a fan communicating by an tom . The prongs are projected 15 inches air-tight passage with a central cavity

down into the screen and close to its bot-

backwards, and these short ends are con- in the stack, the hot air is withdrawn

nected by chains to a bar which runs the from the inside ,in consequence of which whole length of each side of the machine the cooler and drier air of the outer at and some 22 inches outside the uprights. mosphere rushes through the interstices

The bars are carried on outrigger brack- of the hay or corn , and in its passages

ets, and are capable of being moved cools and dries the stack.” Many differ longitudinally about 12 inches by means ent kinds of fans have been designed of adjusting screws and handles at one of some being worked by hand , and others the ends, the object being to give the by horse or steam power. In all cases ,

prongs, which are very loose on their however, the cooling is effected by creat cranks, a kind of double motion , which ing a current of air out from and into the tends to make the hay travel longitudinally.

stack . Utility of the Neilson Fan. — Al

" To the framing over the screen is at- though not capable of accomplishing the tached on each side a longitudinal bar, great feat claimed for it at the outset to which are hinged cross-bars, seventeen that of making good hay in wet weather in number, from which project downwards —the Neilsonfan may nevertheless, in

two -pronged forks, so arranged that certain cases, be used with advantage. short each crank prong -

has a fork coming over The late Mr James Howard stated in

it. The office of the prong is to clear 1886 that from trials he had made dur the hay off the crank -prongs as they ing two seasons, he was satisfied a horse revolve.

power fan such as he possessed (made by

HAYMAKING .

40

Mr Lister, Dursley) was a

valuable appliance to have at command in case of need .

" In a catching time," he added, “ I should with a fan at command have no

hesitation in carrying a fit, knowing that if the temperature became dan gerously high, it could at

CARRUS O PATINIO

crop before it was quite

LONDON RILADDLCE JOHN

O

trifling expense be quick ly reduced. If there is any chance of the services of

a fan being required, the stack must be built with

the necessary air -chamber and lateral tubes — the par ticulars of which any maker press ower and hay p.straw team -SFig 483.

of fans will supply.'

Pressing Hay. The bulky character of hay renders it desirable that means should be pro

vided for compressing it tightly into convenient or bundles. In these trusses it can be

trusses

more easily and more cheaply carried alike by road , rail, and steamer ,

than in its natural bulk.

Much ingenuity and en terprise have therefore been exerted in the devis

ing of hay-presses - addi tional impetus being given to these efforts by the rail

way companies offering a reduced rate for carriage

when 50 cwt. or more are packed on to an ordinary railway waggon .

For this

purpose, such pressure as will pack nearly 8 lb. of hay or straw into a cubic foot is sufficient. Trial of Hay - presses.

appliances for pressing hay and straw were carried out.

Prizes were offered for hay

and straw presses — (1)

ba OLO

-At the Nottingham Show of the Royal Agricultural Society in 1888, an im portant series of trials of

HAYMAKING .

41

worked by steam -power, (2) worked by called a follower, loosely fitting the box, horse -power, and (3) by hand -power and provided with three cross grooves one prize being also offered for a press for the later admission of the binding for old hay worked by hand -power. wires. Binding is accomplished as each Steam -power Presses . - Four steam-

bale passes rearward, and after it has

power presses competed. The first prize reached a portion of the press-body from went to Messrs John H. Ladd & Co., 116

which the sides have been removed for

Queen Victoria Street, London, and the this purpose. After wiring, the bales,

second to Messrs Samuelson & Co., Ban- together with their followers, are suc bury. The first - prize machine, known cessively extruded from the press, the

as Ladd's Perpetual Press, is represented former being removed, while the latter in fig. 483. It is a modification of the well-known American “Dederick Press,"

are returned to the feeder for repeated use .

The cost of baling with this machine, and is thus described in the Journal of the Royal Agricultural Society of Eng- as found at the trial, was with straw land : 1 15. 27/2d. per ton, and hay from 6d. to “Let the reader imagine a square pipe, 7d. per ton . It required four nominal partially filled with plastic material, to horse-power to work it, and the mean which a fresh portion of similar material density of its bales was 10.77 lb. per is added at every stroke of a plunger,

cubic foot with straw , and from 15.40 to

moving backwards and forwards in the 23.40 lb. per cubic foot with hay. Its unoccupied portion of the tube, and he cost price is £ 80. The Messrs Samuelson's second - prize If he further supposes that the occupied machine was the well-known “ Pilter part of the pipe can be cramped at will Press,” an American invention improved will have a picture of the Ladd Press.

upon its contents, he will understand upon in this country. how the density of Ladd's bales is deterHorse-power Presses.—Four horse mined . In such an apparatus every power presses were tried. Mr George

addition of unpressed material causes Stephenson, Newark -on -Trent, obtained the extrusion from the end of the pipe the first prize, and Messrs Ladd & Co. second. the seco of a similar quantity of compressed stuff, the nd. Mr Stephenson's press is whose density depends upon the amount shown in fig. 484. It employs what is of friction induced by cramping between known as the " toggle-joint,” and “ con sists of a vertical box, or press-body, the pipe and its unextruded contents. “ The material to be baled is fed by a closed at the top by a sliding door, man, handling a fork, piecemeal into the body of the press. There, a platten, which has a to and - fro motion commu nicated to it by a suit

ably geared crank and connecting rod, drives each mouthful of hay or straw introduced by the feeder back upon

other already compress ed

material occupying

the

rear

of

the box.

Six lateral latches, three on either side of

Fig. 484.- Horse-power hay -press.

the

press-body, serve to retain each newly and laterally by a swinging door. A pressed mouthful of hay, and when platform , placed at such a height that enough for a bale has been compressed, stuff can easily be received from the the feeder introduces a square board, thresher and forked through the latter door, surrounds the press-body, and re i Vol. xxiv ., sec. scr., 577.

ceives loose material.

Two men were

HAYMAKING .

42

employed upon this platform , either quâ the toggle, so that hiswork is equal forking or trampling, and one man droveised throughout the whole movement of the platten.

the horse.

“ After a bale has been completed, the platten which, during the charging opera- windlass is released by means of a clutch , “ Within the box there is a moving

tion, forms the bottom of the press-body. and the platten falls by its own weight, the rapidity of its descent being checked by a brake on the chain

barrel, under the control of the at tendant.

The bales are tied in the

usual way, either with cord or wire, and afterwards tumbled from

the

platform to the ground. “ The ratio of movement between

the horse and the platten at the point of maximum pressure is 301 to 1, so that, estimating the pull of the horse at 2 cwt., this would give 30 tons pres

the platten .” One horse worked this press with ease . It gave a density of 8.60 lb. sure upon

per cubic foot in straw , and 13.50 in hay, the cost of baling in the former

case being is. 9d ., and in the latter IS. id. per ton .

The cost of this

press is £70. Messrs Ladd's second - prize press was the same machine as that illus

trated in fig. 483, adapted for horse power instead of steam . Fig. 485.- Bamber s hay- press.

Hand - presses. — At the Notting

ham trials nine hand -presses competed .

The platten is supported by the two The first-prize machine, made by Mr J. limbs of the toggle, and is low down in Bamber, Saul Street, Preston, is repre the box when members of the joint are sented in fig. 485. It is an exceedingly widely open, high up in the box when simplemachine, in appearance similarto these are closed . “ The toggle is operated by a chain,

which, after passing around a guide pulley to give it direction, is wound

an ordinary cheese-press, provided with a QUART DRD LT

STATUSED

upon a windlass actuated by the horse. The platten rises, quickly at first, and slowly at last, through a considerable space - a movement well suited , as it

appears, to the pressing of hay and straw , where a gradually increasing pressure, ending in a powerful final pinch, is the thing desired. “ When the toggle is open, and while

there is little or no pressing to do, the horse's energy is used in bringing the widely separated limbs of the joint Fig. 486. - Barford & Perkins's hay-press. together, the leverage being at that moment greatly against him ; but when pulley and endless cord for obtaining a

the final pinch is given, and the work of quick return of the screw. compression is hardest, there is a hardly

Two men

work this machine easily enough, com

appreciable leverage against the horse, pressing the materials by means of cap

HAYMAKING .

43

stan levers which rotate the screw.

than 3 cwt., and costs only £ 11 . It

After compression, the platten is returned quickly by means of the pulley and cord . One drawback is that, there being no compression -box, the bales have

gave a mean density of 4.20 lb. per

cubic

foot in its bales of straw, and 8.24 to 9.75 with loose hay, the cost of baling the straw being is . 5d. per ton and the

to be trimmed with a knife. The ratio hay is. 6d. per ton. It baled old hay, of movement between the capstan lever cut from the stack, at a cost of 85,gd. per and the platten in the trial was I 20 ton, giving a mean density of 9.10 lb. to I , which, assuming each man to ex per cubic foot in the bales.

ercise a force of 100 lb. on the levers,

The second prize went to Mr W.

gives a pressure of 10.7 tons on the Warnes, King's Lynn, Norfolk, for a platten. The Bamber hand - press weighs less

heavy and powerful press costing £35.

Hand -presses for Old Hay . — Nine

24

Fig. 487.— Turnbull's hay - press.

machines tried for the prize under this tive press, which costs £25, is repre head, which went to Mr Bamber for his sented in fig. 486.

prize press in the other class, illustrated in fig. 485 .

Highland Society Trials.—A trial of

hand hay -presses took place at the Mel

Although the judges in the Notting: rose show of the Highland and Agri ham trials had in this class no second cultural Society in 1889. The first prize prize at their disposal, they highly com- was taken there by J. Turnbull & Son, mended a very useful machine which Carnock, Larbert, with the machine

was shown by Messrs Barford & Perkins, shown in fig. 487. The pressure is ap Peterborough, and which has gained plied by a lever, as seen in the illustra much favour amongst farmers through- tion . For transit it is easily mounted out the country. This strong and effec on wheels.

BARE FALLOW.

44

BARE

FALLOW.

Three agencies, distinct, yet associated, during this time of leisure as not only to have combined to curtail the time-hon- eradicate weeds, but also to so disinte

oured custom of bare -fallowing. The grate the soil as to replenish the upper fall in the price of wheat, land drainage, layers with available plant-food. and the application of science to the Production of Nitric Acid .— “ The

practice of agriculture, have so dis- production of nitric acid,” says Mr R. Warington, “ is probably the most import thing of the past, except in the very ant result of a bare fallow. In ordinary

credited bare fallow as to render it a stiffest of soils.

soils at Rothamsted , left as bare fallow, One crop of wheat, with the price at there has been found at the end of the

little more than 30s. per quarter, will summer 34-55 lb. of nitrogen per acre in not bear the rent and labour of two

the form of nitric acid in the first 20

years. Where it could be avoided, there- inches from the surface, the quantity fore, bare fallow would of necessity have depending on the richness of the soil in But by the advance-

nitrogenous matter and the character of

ment of agricultural education and the introduction of artificial manures, the farmer is enabled, in all except the very stiffest soils, to emulate, and indeed to surpass, the beneficial influence of bare

been discontinued.

the season. The whole amount of ni trates produced during the fifteen months that the land remains without a crop has been estimated at not less than 80 lb. of nitrogen per acre for the arable fields un

fallow without leaving the land un- der ordinary cultivation at Rothamsted . cropped for a single season. Thus it Supposing the season of fallow and the

has happened that the practice of bare following winter are fairly dry, this in fallowing , once very common in the crease in the available nitrogenous food

British Isles, has fallen into disrepute, will probably enable the soil to produce and is now pursued only in exceptional twice as much wheat as it could do with instances, almost entirely on strong clays, out a fallow. If, however, the soil is which are so stiff and unpliable as to be exposed to heavy rain, the nitrates pro unsuited for any of the standard root or duced will be more or less washed out, fallow crops. and the benefit of the fallow greatly Fallowing and Loss of Nitrates.-- diminished . Bare fallow can be used

Another influence which has operated against the practice of bare-fallowing is the discovery of the great loss which is liable to occur in uncropped land by the washing away of nitrates in drainage water.

This occurrence is fully noticed

systematically with advantage only on clay soils and in a tolerably dry climate ; under other circumstances a continuance of the practice must result in a serious loss of soil nitrogen." i Antiquity of Bare Fallow.- The

in other parts of this work , notably in practice of bare-fallowing is an ancient Divisional vol. iii. p . 156, and should be one. It was pursued by the Israelites, duly considered by every farmer who and was probably followed by the Teu contemplates fallowing. Objects of Bare Fallow.-The ob-

tonic races even prior to their association with the Romans.

Anyhow the Romans

jects of bare fallow are to replenish ex- bare-fallowed systematically, and brought

hausted soil by the natural agencies of the art with them into England.

It was

rest and disintegration, and to afford an not until the eighteenth century that the opportunity of eradicating weeds. By benefits of thorough fallowing were made

and extensively taken advantage the growth of crops which are removed known,Scotland. curiously enough,

And from it, the soil is robbed of its supply of in of available plant-food. To restore this Scotch farmers, while about the last to lost fertility, our forefathers resorted to take kindly to bare -fallowing, were among the device of allowing the land to “ rest for a year, and of tilling it so thoroughly 1 Chemistry of the Farm , 58.

BARE FALLOW.

45

the first and readiest to displace the prac- with weeds as to render it impossible to tice by manuring and root-growing. thoroughly clean it in time for an ordi Methods of Fallowing. — The prin- nary crop. Other conditions being equal,

ciple of bare-fallowing has been employed the portion of the shift to be fallowed in numerous ways to effect the desired will usually be that farthest from the

objectsof replenishing and cleaning the steading, so that the green crops may be soil. In early times it is believed that as near thereto as possible. more than one year's rest was given at a Wheat after Fallow.- Wheat is the

time. In the more distinctlyhistorical crop which follows bare fallow. It is

ages one year has been the usual dura- in some parts considered a good plan to tion of the bare fallow.

As to the inter-

have the wheat seed after fallow sown

val between the bare-fallowings, practice early, so that the young wheat may be has varied, and still varies greatly. through the ground in time to see the Morier, in his Cobden Club Treatise old wheat on its way to the stackyard. ( 1870) on the " Systems of Land Ten-

Treatment of Fallows. — The treat

refers to a three- field system of ment of bare fallows will perhaps ex cropping, with “ each field lying fallow tend over the greater part of eight or once in three years,” as having been ten months. It begins in winter, finishes in the following August or September, practised in the first century.

ure ,

This three-field system was at one time and consists of several ploughings and largely pursued in this country, and it grubbings, or draggings, with thorough was

last heard of” in the county of harrowing, rolling, clod - crushing, and

Durham . Under this system two-thirds weed-gathering. It is impossible to de of the land would always be producing termine beforehand how many times grain or beans, the other third being bare fallow should be ploughed, har rowed, grubbed, and clod - crushed, to In the better classes of wheat soils, make it clean ; but it should be borne rich in inherent fertility, the fallow came in mind that one of the main objects at longer intervals, in every fourth, fifth, of bare - fallowing is to make the land bare fallow.

or sixth year, according to the character thoroughly clean. and condition of the land .

The crops

In many cases the bare fallow is

grown between the fallows would be ploughed or grubbed four or five times, wheat, beans, oats, and clover, alternated at intervals of four to seven weeks ; and so as to give as many crops of wheat as the number of turns of the harrow must

possible in the rotation, yet without crop- be left to the judgment of the farmer at ping with wheat in two successive years, the time. or allowing wheat and oats to follow Overworking Fallow . - It was at one each other. time believed that the perfection of bare Where fallow exists, it takes the place fallowing was to work on till the land of the root crop in the rotation . Rotation and Bare- fallowing .

was reduced to a very fine tilth. Ex Aperience has proved it better for wheat

discussion of all the “ pros ” and “ cons connected with the practice of bare-fallowing would of necessity involve the consideration of many points which fall more properly to be reviewed in the chapter on “ Rotation of Crops.” To

to have a good-sized clod upon the surface in winter, however much the ground below may be pulverised. It is a decided mis take to reduce the surface of the fallow to a fine smooth condition in the au tumn ; and rolling in the autumn, after

save repetition, we therefore in this sec- or just before the sowing, should never

tion avoid further remarks upon the be practised . general principles of bare-fallowing, and

Prevailing Methods. - Common me

add a few notes as to the treatment of thods of working fallow land are as fol bare fallows.

lows : The fallow land is the last stubble

Land to be Fallowed.— The portion to be ploughed in winter. The plough

of land to be fallowed will be the ing is done in the same manner as for strongest clay on the farm , some piece potatoes and turnips. Then comes cross of land which cannot be otherwise turned to good account. It may be so invested

ploughing in spring. If one furrow has been given after cross-ploughing, it will

W BARE FALLO .

46

be as much as time will afford from work- but this danger will be avoided if any ing the potato and turnip lands ; and as

roots found in the bottoms of the heaps

the bare fallow is not likely to be worked are carefullyremoved when the ashes are for some time, it is better to keep it in being spread. Many farmers, however, the rough state from the plough, because, prefer to make compost of the weeds, thus should dry weather ensue, it will moulder agreeing with Lord Kames, who ex down ; and should wet weather set in, the claimed, “ What better policy than to rough land will be less tough to work. convert a foe into a friend ? " When leisure at length permits attenKentish Practice. In Kent, as in tion to the bare fallow, its state should other parts of the country, only the stiff be particularly examined . est soils are left in bare fallow, and even Weeds . — Should the weeds consist of on these it is not now extensively prac

fibrous and fusiform-rooted plants, they tised. Mr Solomon , Dartford, Kent,writ will be easily shaken out by the harrows ing in 1888, says : “ A bare fallow is often in dry weather ; but should their roots

taken after oats, or it may be after seeds.

thread themselves through the hard clods, They plough even before Michaelmas if

they cannot be detached by the harrows. possible, then leave the ground till early Inattention to the state of the weeds at in the year, and then plough again - it this stage may cause double work at a may be across or by turning back the

subsequent time. Clods containing por- furrow. The ground receives about four tions of tenacious roots, knocked about in more ploughings and about a dozen or so

dry weather, will be broken into smaller harrowingsanddraggings, exposing couch pieces; but so will the roots in them,

and other weeds to the hot suns of July

and August (which is all the weeding being cleaned. The best plan, then , is deemed necessary ). Where we hadsome to allow the roots to grow , that the force of our marshes here under plough the

and the land be as far as ever from

of vegetation may break the clods, or following was the rotation :

Fallow,

render them easily so by a clod-crusher wheat, beans, wheat, and clover, but this after a shower of rain has moistened was only a “ bastard fallow ,' because they them . took one cut of clover and then ploughed A precaution in the use of a roller up in June or beginning of July. The should here be given. If the soil is in a land was immediately cross-ploughed, so mouldy state, rolling will only bury the as to lay it up roughly, and it was left hard clods with the roots in them , not till September, when it was ploughed break them. The harrows in 2 or 3 tines again for wheat, which was sown early in will break them better than rolling. October.” After a good clod -crushing, the land Dung for Bare Fallow.—The manure should be harrowed a double tine, first for the bare fallow consists mostly of the one way and then across. part of the farm -dung which was left in Collecting Weeds.- The weeds will then be collected on the surface. It is

the courts when the dung was taken away for the turnips, and that since made by

not expedient to gather them imme- the cattle and horses. Compost is now diately, as a good deal of fresh soil ad- largely used for bare fallow . Every heres to them .

With an interval of one

material convertible into manure should

or two dry days, the soil will be easily be used, and ash-courts, privies, cesspools, shaken off.

pigeon -house, poultry -houses, ponds, and

The chain -harrow may be used to assist ditches, cleared out at this time. These

in collecting the weeds, and the work materials are compounded together with will be completed by graips or forks, or the farm -dung, straw , and compost, into by the bare hand. a large dunghill in the compost-yard, Disposing of Weeds.-In some cases ready for the bare fallow by the end of the weeds are collected in heaps and July. The dung is not much heated carted off to be burned, destroyed,or con- for bare fallow, as it has time partially verted into compost. In others they are to decompose in the soil before the

wholly or partially burned on the land. wheat is sown ; but should there be no It is not easy to so thoroughly burn weeds time for that, it should be putrefied on the land as to prevent future growth ; the more, that the wheat may not suffer

BARE FALLOW .

47

in winter in ground hollowed by unrotted dunging for potatoes and turnips. The dung.

dung isthus quickly spread and covered Preparing for Dung. - An ordinary in, and the land remains in drill until it preparation in bare fallowfor the dung is seed -furrowed for wheat. In this mode is to feer it into ridges. If the land has of manuring bare fallow, the dung, being been drained , which it ought to have in bulk in the drill, it putrefies readily ; been at some time, the feering should be and after the drills are harrowed down, for casting the ridges together ; and as and the land seed - furrowed , the dung

the land will be seed-furrowed when the becomes intimately incorporated with wheat is sown, this feering for casting the soil. should leave one single ridge on the side Folding on Fallows. — Bare fallow is of the field at which the ploughing com- manured in England by sheep folded

mences -- so that in seed -furrowing the within hurdles or nets, and fed on tares ridges may be cast together in pairs from or other forage, and perhaps cake or

side to side of the field. If the land has grain, broughtto them . As one break

not been drained, it should be gathered of land is sufficiently manured, a new up from the flat, leaving a half ridge on one is enclosed. This practice is called the side of the field, that the ridges might folding, and is pursued with success.

be completed in gathering up the seed-

“ Bastard ” Fallow . - In some cases

rapid -growing crops — such as white mus

furrow .

Spreading Dung. — Thedung is carted tard ( Sinapis alba) or rye - are sown on out to the feered field, hawked out of the the fallows early in summer, and folded cart by each ploughman in heaps upon by sheep when they are a few inches each successive ridge, in such quantity above ground. This is one form of “ bas per acre as may be determined on. The tard ” fallow ,—other forms of “ bastard ”

dung should be discriminatingly laid fallow occurring where a catch -crop of down, according to the wants of the soil clover, vetches, or some other suitable in different parts of the field, the poorer plant is taken early in the season, and soil on the heights of knolls having more the land ploughed up early in summer ,

and the deeper hollows less.

Bare fallow

is seldom so heavily manured as forgreen

and then worked as fallow. Green Manuring. – Another mode of

crops. Common dressings consist of from manuring bare fallow is sowing some kind 8 to 12 tons per acre. of rapidly growing plant upon it, and

Field -workers should spread the dung then ploughing it in. White mustard, evenly over the surface with common Sinapis alba, is employed in this manner

graips or forks, and the ploughs cover with advantage. About 12 lb. of the it in rapidly from the heat of the sun. seed is sown on an acre, and after the If the heat is scorching, as many field- plant has grown about four inches it is workers should be employed as to keep ploughed in. This operation is known the plough going. It is too common as green manuring, and may be practised a practice to spread the dung for bare with many other plants. Rye is so em fallow some time before it is ploughed ployed. in.

In some cases two or three successive

Drilling Fallow . – Someprefer plough- growths of mustard are thus ploughed ing in dung for bare fallow in drills. The

into fallow land. As soon as the first

drills are made in the single way, diag- crop is nearly at its full growth it is onally across the future ridges. The rolled flat, the land is ploughed, another

dung may be thrown in graipfuls from seeding of mustard sown, the crop again the cart as described for turnips or pota- ploughed in, and perhaps a third crop toes ; but formerly the more general method was to drag the dung from the cart into heaps in the drills. The heaps are divided by a field -worker across three drills, and three workers spread the dung along the three drills with small graips, and the ploughs cover it in returning from making the drills, as is done in

treated likewise. The first crop of mus tard is sown in spring, after the fallow has received its second ploughing. By this plan a great amount of vege table matter is incorporated with the soil. By the decay of this matter the clays must not only be loosened in tex ture, but also enriched in the nitrogenous

AUTUMN .

48

ingredients so essential for wheat. It is winning the seed is to place the stems a cheap and effective system both of against frames of wood. Suitable frames manuring and cleaning stiff land, un- are formed by setting hurdles on the suited for growing roots. ground, wide below , and placing their Objection to Green Manuring. tops against each other in the form of There is undoubtedly much to be said an isosceles triangle, thus leaving an

in favour of this system of green manur- opening between them to let the air ing for stiff soils.

Yet it is perhaps pass through.

The stems of the first

better farming to combine the growing plants are placed upright on their butt of these catch -crops with the folding of ends upon the ground against both sides sheep.

Having succeeded in obtaining of the hurdles, and the others are put

a crop, it is clearly better,” says Profes- upon them upwards till they reach the sor Wrightson, “ to feed it off with sheep tops of the hurdles, when the mass ap than to partly waste it by ploughing it pears as a thatched roof. The plants are in ." COLLECTING TURNIP-SEED.

then covered with straw , for protection from rain and birds, and bound down with straw or other ropes. Threshing. – The seed is threshed out

The saving of turnip -seed needs very by the flail in the same way as rye -grass careful attention. The plants should be seed. Produce . - Swede seed, when a good cut down with the sickle before they are

dead ripe, as the seed is very apt to crop, yields 28 bushels per acre ; yellow shake out. turnips, 20 bushels ; and globes, 24 Drying the Seed . — The best mode of

bushels.

A U T U MN . AUTUMN WEATHER AND FIELD OPERATIONS.

perfection, and the decay, becomes to us an epitome of the system of growing

nature in its widest extent and through In the seasons passed through, we have its most prolonged duration. This is the

seen Winter the season of Jormancy, in grand advantage which studying the pro on which all nature desires to be in a state

ductions of nature in their connecti ,

of repose ; Spring, the season of revival, and the events and occurrences of nature in which the vivifying powers of nature in their succession , has over the mere ob inspire every created being with new servations of the individual substance

vigour ; and Summer, the season of pro- and the passing moment; and it is this gress, in which nature puts forth all her which gives to the law of the seasons energies, to increase andmultiply varieties so high a value above all the beauties

of productions. Now we contemplate of the seasons taken in their individual Autumn , the season of fruition , in which character.” nature, bringing every plant to perfection,

Rewards of Labour . - Autumn ma

provides for the ensuing year sustenance turing its products, the toiling labours for man and beast.

Study of the Seasons. While the

of the husbandman during the period of a year find their reward. In it, hope en

natural action of spring and summer is joys the possession of the thing hoped

single, that of autumn has a compound for; and the yield being plentiful, the character. “ Thus, if we follow out the husbandman is full of thankfulness. “ It study of the autumn in a proper manner, is this feeling which makes the principles

it leads us to all the revolutions that have of seasonal action thicken upon us as the taken place in the surface of our planet ; year advances, and the autumn to become and in this way a plant of which we can,

the harvest of knowledge, as well as the

in a few months, see the beginning, the fruits of the earth . Nor can one help

AUTUMN WEATHER AND FIELD OPERATIONS.

admiring that bountiful and beautiful wisdom which has laid the elements of

49

Rain . — The greatest average quantity of rain falls in October. The heaviest

instruction most abundantly in the grand rains come down in summer and early autumn months. In summer, 1/2 inch season of plenty and gratitude.” Barometer Oscillations. — The phe- will sometimes fall in less than one hour

nomena accompanying the oscillations of in short and tempestuous torrents. In

the barometer of a general character, ap- autumn the same quantity will occupy plicable to all seasons, are these : A fall many hours in falling. of the mercury with a S. wind is invari-

Clouds . — The cirrus-cloud is seen at

ably followed by rain in greater or less quantities. Great depressions are followed by change of wind, which becomes strong, and is followed by much rain .

all seasons of the year, and at all heights of the barometer. If the mercury be falling, its changes are rapid , and, on the approach of rain, its delicate texture be If the mercury rise with the wind at comes confused, and is ultimately lost in S.W., S., or even S.E., the temperature one dusky mass, resembling ground glass. is high. A rising barometer with a S. The cirro-stratus is also seen at all sea wind is followed by fair weather ; such a sons, and is the immediate precursor of rise is of rare occurrence. Storms of rain or wind, and of a falling barometer .

wind, especially when accompanied with It is in this cloud that halos, parhelia , much rain, produce the greatest depres- & c., are seen. The cirro-cumulus attends sion of the mercury. No great storm

a rising barometer.

Coloured coronce

ever sets in with a steady rising barome- have their origin in this cloud. The cu ter. If, after a storm of wind and rain, mulus frequently attends a rising baro

the mercury remain steady at the point meter. If on a fine morning this cloud to which it had fallen, serene weather suddenly disappear , and it be followed may follow without a change of wind ; by a cirro -stratus cloud, with the wind but, on the rising of the mercury, rain tacking to the S., the mercury falls and may be expected on a change of wind.

rain soon follows.

When the cumulus

If the weather during harvest has been increases after sunset, with a ruddy cop

fine, and a fall of the mercury, with a per-coloured hue, it denotes a thunder shower, occur—if the wind turn a few

storm .

The effect of the cumulo - stratus

points to the N., and the barometer rises cloud on the mercury gives it a tendency It indicates thunder -gusts, above 30 inches — the weather may be to rise. showers of hail, and sudden changes of expected to be fair for some days. Wind . - In England the winds which the wind. It is the densest modification

blow for the greatest number of days to- of cloud, and , in passing overhead, causes

gether, without intermission, are the W. a reduction of temperature. and W.S.W.

The E. and E.N.E. are the

winds next most prevalent.

The W.

The rain -cloud is never seen with the

barometer at great elevations. The rain

winds surge mostly by night, and their bow is the lovely attendant of the nimbus average force is twice that of the E.

only.

winds. The E. winds are generally calm The stratus is the cloud nearest the at night, but blow with some power dur- ground. Calm weather is essential to ing the day. On an average, sunrise and

its formation.

It is frequent in fine

sunset are the periods of the 24 hours in autumnal nights and mornings, some

which there is the least wind. An hour times resting on the ground, sometimes or two after noon is the period when the hovering some hundred feet above it. wind is the highest. As a general rule, It obscures the sun until his rays have when the wind turns against the sun, raised the temperature of the air suffi

from W. to S., it is attended with a fall- ciently to evaporate it, when it gradually ing mercury ; when it goes in the same disappears, and leaves a clear blue sky. direction as the sun, or turns direct from

The stratus deposits moisture.

It is

W. to N., the mercury rises, and there is called the night-cloud, and is most fre a probability of fine weather. In high quent from September till January. It pressures the upper current usually sets has no sensible effect on the barometer. If the clouds are without any progres from the N.; in low pressures it sets from the S. and S.W. VOL. III.

sive motion, and increase rapidly,a storm D

AUTUMN.

50

in all probability will be in the vicinity ;

but if they move hurriedly towards any particular quarter of the heavens, the

Man , to thy labour bow , Thrust in thy sickle now , Reap where thou once didst plough, God sends thee bread ."

storm will be in the direction whither the clouds are seen to hasten : these

-James Montgomery.

signs of thunder are seen though the When every straw is safe in the stack storm may be 150 miles distant. In yard , and he has closed its gate for the certain states of the atmosphere, when season, the farmer is satisfied that his

the clouds rise confusedly, and change task is finished , and he may now enjoy their forms abruptly, it is difficult for the repose. tude of Harvest-work .-- The Magni inexperienced to classify them. Autumn Flora. — The autumnal flora labour of harvesting a crop is almost in consists of Michaelmas daisies, starworts,

credible. Only conceive the entire cereal

and other late-blowing plants, with their crop of such anation as this reaped, car companions the fungi and mushrooms , ried, and stored in minute sheaves, in the which are a remarkable class of vegetable course of one single month ! Then,besides the harvest of the cereal plants, the legumi productions. Autumn Folk -lore.— The following nous, as well as the root crops, are stored is folk-lore connected with the months of in autumn; for although the turnips are not wholly removed from the ground at autumn : once, like other crops, they are stripped Dry August and warm, doth harvest no harm. and prepared for winter use. Autumn Anomalies . — Some curious If the twenty -fourth of August be fair and clear, Then hope for a prosperous autumn that year. September, blow soft, till the fruit's in the loft. A good October, and a good blast, Toblow the hog acorn and mast.

In October dung your field, And your land its wealth shall yield. Many haws, many snaws.

Many sloes, many cold toes.

anomalies in farm labour occur in au tumn.

One is sowing a new crop of

wheat, while the matured one of the same grain is being reaped ; another, that while spring is the natural season

for the reproduction of animals, autumn is that for the reproduction of sheep.

Field - sports . — The sports of the field commence in August. The gatherings on the hills in thousands on the historic

“ Twelfth ” of August, in quest of the Harvest. The great work of autumn unique-flavoured red grouse, Lagopus is the harvesting of the corn crops. This scoticus — of which Scotland should be necessarily engrosses the entire time and proud as its only indigène - find a wel Autumn Work.

attention of the farmer and his assist-

come home in shielings, which , at other

ants until these perishable crops are seasons, would be contemned by their secured beyond danger in the stack- luxurious urban occupiers. Partridge shooting comes in September, at times yard.

Weather and Harvest. — During this before the corn is cut down.

eventful period of a month at least, the

Hare

hunting finds ample room by October.

farmer looks night and day at “ the face Last of all, the attractive “ music " of

of the sky,” consults his glass, and fear the pack gathers around it, from hill or hope inspires him according to its and dale, all the active Nimrods of the country. At this season, however, the too much occupied in his farmer are at precious iswork labour of the year of a whole resultsonof the stake exigency weather, to bestow time on field indications.

And no wonder, for the

and he feels that unless he exercise his

sports.

Autumn Crops. Several crops sown best skill and judgment, he will not be satisfied with himself. Still none does in autumn succeed in England, but few can be sown in Scotland at

that season more hopefully go to his great task than with safety. Most of the forage plants the farmer :

“ The wind, the rain, the sun, Their genial task have done. Wouldst thou be fed ?

sown in autumn in England, for afford ing early food in spring - as crimson clover, winter tares, & c. — would not with

SOWING CRIMSON CLOVER.

51

stand a Scottish winter ; and some plants the ploughing altogether ; for the many

sown in England, on stubble-ground - as failures which occurred previous to its stone turnip and rape — could not be culture being properly understood, are the sown so late in Scotland.

now attributed entirely to the ground The harvest in England is from two having been too much loosened and pul to three weeks earlier, the stubble is bare verised by repeated ploughings.” 2 It is

so much earlier, and the land is in a com- better, therefore, to dispense with plough paratively drier state, and may be worked ing altogether, as the plant takes bestin to advantage before the wet weather sets a firm bed. in at the latter part of autumn.

The

Seed.-In England, from 20 lb. to 28

later harvest in Scotland, and the earlier lb. of seed are sown per acre broadcast ; winter, would not as a rule permit work- and the quantity is increased or lessened ing stubble after a grain crop ; and there according to the nature of the climate is but little done in Scotland in1 the way and soil. of growing winter forage crops. From the beginning of August till the first week of September is the best time to sow.

SOWING CRIMSON CLOVER .

Crimson clover ripens its seed easily in England ; and English seed of the The crimson clover, Trifolium incar- first year after importation is the best,

natum , is one of the most beautiful being heavier and more free of the seeds plants cultivated in the field. Its stem of weeds than the foreign seed. rises to 18 inches or two feet in height,

As a Forage Crop . - When sown in

with spikes of tapering, nodding , brilliant autumn, the entire crop may be grown, scarlet-coloured flowers. It was long cul-

cut down, and cleared off by June

tivated in the garden as a border annual It is an excellent forage plant, and when sown in autumn, so quick is its growth, that it affords the earliest cutting in spring of any plant of its age. In Scot-

following, allowing the ground to be worked up for late turnips, to be con sumed in autumn. When cut in full flower, it makes hay much relished by horses, and its entire yield is said to be

land it is useless to attempt its culti- more than the common clovers.

It is

vation except as a garden plant, damp better suited to sow on stubbles than autumns and winter frosts never permit- even the stone turnip. It is more rapid ting it to come to a good result. It in its growth than winter tares. On

is successfully grown in some parts of light land a crop of buckwheat may be Ireland.

readily obtained after it. Italian rye Culture in England. Trifolium is grass may be sown with it, and will grow grown largely in the south of England. as rapidly. After the crimson clover has It produces the best results on soils of a been cut, the rye-grass will continue to

loamy nature ; but on thin, poor, high- grow and afford an excellent second crop. lying land the plant appears quite out of place.

The crimson clover, having the pro perty of smothering early weeds, is not

Of all known plants it is best suited well suited for sowing among a corn for the stubble of a cereal crop in Eng- crop.” Late Variety . — A variety of crimson land. “ There, " observes Lawson , “ it named by the French tardif, or clover either best, succeed to found has been

drilled in summer in rows of from 8 late-flowering, was introduced to notice in France about 1836. If sown at the

inches to one foot distant, or sown in autumn in broadcast on stubble,after the corn crop has been removed, and with no previous preparation save one harrowing

autumn, it will flower next season after

or two, so that the seed may be the more

a valuable successor .

same time as the common variety in

that has yielded its crop, and thus form Its characteristics

easily covered. In very tenacious soils a are lateness of flowering and tallness, very shallow ploughing is given, but in with vigour of growth. general it is found better to dispense with 2 Lawson's Agric. Man ., 154. 1 See Divisional vol. iii. pp. 253.260.

3 Rham

Dict, of the Farm --art. “ Clover."

AUTUMN .

52

Extra late Variety. - A few years seed has been sown unknowingly by the ago Messrs Sutton & Sons, of Reading, farmer. introduced another variety, called Extra To secure a good second cutting, no

Late Red ( Trifolium incarnatum tardis- foreign seed should be sown, and the first simum ), which usually comes in from ten crop should be cut before the plant comes days to a fortnight after 7. tardit, thus into bloom ; or sheep might eat down the

prolonging the supply of this valuable crop by the end of May or beginning of forage crop up to midsummer. The June, when the second growth will come Extra Late Red has a special value on ac- away thick and vigorously. count of its suitability for filling up deficient clover leys, as if sown after the corn is off it is ready for cutting with the clover sown in the previous spring. White Variety . - A fourth variety, with white flowers) Late White Trifo

The red clover is injured by insects when in bloom .

Cutting and Drying. - When the

blooms of the plants become withered , the crop should be cut down with the sickle or scythe, likely at the end of

lium ), which comes in about the same August or beginning of September. If time as T. tardif, is also spoken of put together in heaps, a slight degree of favourably by some growers.

heating will cause the seed to leave the husk more readily on being threshed ;

and on the heated heaps being spread HARVESTING RED-CLOVER SEED .

out to the sun, the crop will soon be dry

enough to lead home to the steading, to Red -clover seed , Trifolium pratense, be threshed with the flail or threshing not being sown alone among the corn machine. crops in Scotland, cannot there be reWhen the weather is good this plan served for growing seed, though the cli- may be adopted, but should it prove

mate in some seasons would ripen it. We damp the crop should be sheafed, and have gathered its seeds in Scotland as fine set into stooks to dry, and afterwards as any grown in England. In England carried to the stackyard and built into the rye -grass, Lolium perenne, is not so stacks, to be threshed at a convenient great in favour as a forage plant, as in time. There is little danger of the seed

Scotland ; so that red clover without rye- falling from its husk, as it is difficult to grass is common, although not intended thresh out; but the heating recommended to bear seed. renders the husk brittle, and easily broken Where red clover is raised for seed, the by threshing. seed is sown alone, Were it to stand for Threshing. – Where a large quantity seed at the first cutting, when the blos- is cultivated for seed, the threshing soms do not appear simultaneously, the

machine should take out the seed ; but of

seed of one plant would be matured, a small quantity a considerable proportion while that of another would be scarcely of the seed might be lost in the mill, so At the second cutting the the flails should be used. In the thresh

formed .

flowers blossom at one time, and the ing-machine the fanners blow away the

plants attain the same height, the crop husky light matter, while the heavy seed appearing one of the richest description falls down the corn -spout, from which it

in our fields.

The first cutting in ordi- is sifted through a sieve, to free it of dust

nary practice is delayed until the plant

and sand and blind husks. It is then

is in full bloom , and sometimes till the measured by the bushel. bloom has begun to decay ; so no sur prise need be felt when a full second cutting is not obtained after such treat-

1

SOWING ITALIAN RYE -GRASS .

ment.

When the seed is imported from Hol-

Italian rye-grass, Lolium italicum, grow

land or France, a full crop is obtained

ing rank and quick, is not so well suited

only in the first cutting, for a good second for sowing among a corn crop as by itself cutting from such seed never occurs. when used as a forage crop . Its nature The want of a second cutting may thus certainly indicates that it is better adapt

be accounted for in cases where foreign ed for a forage than a pasture plant.

1

GRAIN HARVEST.

Sowing for Forage.--- As a forage

53

If the ground and weather are dry in

crop it should be sown by itself in a spring, the roller should smoothen the portion of the dunged fallow land in surface. Produce . — The crop will be ready for

August, or the middle of September at

latest, that it may acquire sufficient cutting in May, and yield from 3 to 5 strength to stand the winter.

It may

be sown broadcast, there being no use

tons of forage per acre. A new selection, Sutton's Evergreen

of drilling it, since it will grow as early Italian, has the advantage of producing in spring as any weed, and will outstrip a quicker and more luxuriant bottom it in growth.

growth than the ordinary variety, on

Seed . From its natural tendency to which account it is rapidly superseding produce many stalks from the same root, the latter, especially for early sheep feed and its upright habit of growth, not form- in the spring. Irrigation Crop . - Italian rye -grass is ing a close turf, it should be sown thick, especially in autumn, to stand the winter an extremely valuable crop for irrigated

-3 to 4 bushels per acre, to have plants land. It is in general use on sewage enough in spring for an early cutting. farms throughout the country.

GRAIN

HARVEST.

The joy of the harvest has been ex- No. 1 , reaped quite green on 12th August, and

tolled by emotional writers in all ages. The merry whir of the modern reaper drowned the dull hum ofthe primihas

stacked 26th August, gave a return of

£ 11 , 17s. per acre.

So.2, reapedgreen on 19thAugust, and stacked

tive “ shearing ” of ancient times. By No. 3, reaped raw on 26th August, and stacked 5th September, returned £ 148. 18s. the genius of the inventor and the enter-

prise of the farmer the entire process of No.4, l'eaped not quite so raw on 30th August, and stacked 9th September, returned harvesting has been revolutionised. Yet 14, 178.ripe 4d. on 9th September, and with all those changes the glory of the No. 5, £reaped harvest survives. it otherwise !

And who would have

stacked 16th September, returned £ 13, 116. 8d. per acre.

of the weather during the season has of course much to do with the date of the

A loss of kr 14 8 on No. 1 compared with No. 5 11

Again of 11

harvest, as well as with the character of the crop . As a rule, reaping begins with the winter wheat in England in the third

Hence

Per acre.

Beginning of Harvest. — The nature

O I

5

I

5

3

1

6

8 4 8 o

on on on on

No. No. No. No.

2 3 4 3

11 1

No. No. No. No.

5 5. 5. 1.

Advantage of Early Cutting .- In

or fourth week of July, and aboutthe this case wheat reaped two weeks before

middle of August in Scotland. Between it was quite ripe gave an advantage in

a late and an early season there may be every point, namely : a difference of three, or even four weeks.

The pulse crops follow the cereal crops in ripening

Stage for Cutting.

The propriety of cutting wheat and oats before they are dead ripe has been well established . Experiments with Wheat.-- Experiments conducted by John Hannam , North

Deighton, Yorkshire, gave the following results with wheat :

Per cent.

In weight of gross produce, of .

13 equal measures, nearly 22 equal number of grains, 272 nearly In quality and value , above 3/4 5 above straw, of In weight !!

Moreover, the straw was of better quality, while there was a better chance of secur

ing the crop, as well as a saving in securing it. Loss by too Early Cutting.– On the

other hand, wheat, reaped one month

GRAIN HARVEST.

54

before it was ripe, gave an advantage of follows rain and bright sunshine. After 22 per cent in weight of straw compared being swollen by the rain the chaff is

with the ripe, but suffered disadvantage thrown wide open by the sun, exposing in every other point , namely : Per cent.

In weight of gross produce, equal measures, above equal number ofgrains, 11

above,

.

.

the grain to the play of the wind. Barley. The stage at which barley

1113

should be cut has to be regulated mainly

13

by the particular purpose for which the

1376

grain is intended . If it is to be used for feeding stock , or in the manufacturing of

In quality and quantity , above

whisky, the crop should be cut just be fore it is fully ripe. If it is to be em cut down a few stooks of potato- oats ployed for brewing, especially for the Potato -oats. - Upon one occasion we

when quite green, though full in the ear, production of the lighter coloured ales, to allow carts to pass to a place destined the crop should be left uncut until it is for the site of a hay -stack, and after standing till the rest of the field was brought in, they were threshed with the flail by themselves, and the sample was the most beautiful grain we ever saw . Ripening in the Sheaf. - If there is

dead ripe. For brewing, the value of barley depends greatly upon its colour, which, for this purpose, should be as bright as possible, not “ steely -white ” or gritty-looking, but a pure soft white, with a very slight golden tinge.

The deep

not too much of the ripening process to golden colour so common in barley grown be accomplished when the cutting takes in Scotland and the north of England, place, it will be successfully completed renders it unfit for the manufacture of in the sheaf. It is a nice point to decide light-coloured ales. To secure this bright colour the barley how much of the ripening may be left

till after the grain is severed from the in the south of England is left uncut un roots. Experience alone can be relied til it is dead ripe, when very little dry upon as the guide. There seems little ing is sufficient to prepare it for stacking doubt that the cut grain can do more in or threshing The main object of the farmer who the way of ripening itself in the sheaf grows brewing barley is to shorten the

than is generally believed .

Seed Grain . — Grain intended for seed drying period . While on the root, barley,

should not be cut until it is very nearly, although drenched with rain, will regain if not quite, ripe. The riper it is the If the weather is favourable, therefore, the portion of the crop intended for the production of seed should be left a little longer

its bright colour to a wonderful extent; but after being cut it is liable to be per manently damaged in colour, even by one heavy shower of rain. The farmer, there fore, not only allows the grain to become

uncut.

dead ripe, but also lets the drying of the

“ Shaking.” — One of the greatest risks of loss by allowing grain to become dead ripe before being cut is that of shedding or " shaking. Oats are particularly liable to loss in this

straw go on to a considerable extent be fore cutting the crop. Happy Medium . There is a happy

greater the vitality of the seed.

Shedding or

>

medium

in the time to begin cutting

grain as in most things else. Much will

way, both by wind and hail storms, be- depend upon the district, whether the fore being cut, and by the shedding in the process of harvesting. From 10 to 30 per cent of the corn is often left on the ground in this manner, and the injury is

season be late or early, and the weather

good or bad. In late districts, in a back ward season, it may be better to cut “ on the green side,” that is, to begin early,

all the greater since it happens that the than to delay till the crop is more nearly plumpest and bestmatured grains are the ripe. In these cases there may be great most easily dislodged from the straw.

danger of injury to the crop by inclement

With oats, therefore, it is especially de- weather, perhaps by premature frost and

sirable that early rather than late cut- snow , so that the prudent farmer will ting should be the rule.

prefer to have a moderately ripened crop

The greatest losses by shedding in well preserved, than a well-ripened crop oats usually take place when high wind injured in the stook.

GRAIN HARVEST.

The exact time when cutting should

55

the awns, diverging, stand nearly at right

begin is a matter which each individual angles with the rachis, and the whole farmer must, after careful contemplation, head is easily snapped off by the wind.

determine for himself every harvest as it In oats, when over -ripe the chaff stands comes round .

apart from the grain, which is easily

Ripening Process. - As a general shaken out by the wind. It is not equally prudent to reap all rule, corn in a healthy state comes to maturity first in the ear, and then in the

sorts of grain at the same degree of

upper part of the straw downwards.

maturity. When wheat is reaped too soon, it is apt to shrink , and have a

When the straw becomes matured first

at the root, the grain suffers premature decay ; and when this is observed, the crop should be reaped, as it can derive no further benefit from the ground, and its grain will dry more speedily in the

bluish tint in the sample ; and when too ripe, the chaff opens from the grain , which is apt to fall out on the least

stook than on the root.

before reaching the point of maturity.

Judging Ripeness. The most ready way of judging when the ear is ripe in

Barley, when reaped too soon , also shrinks, and assumes a bleached colour.

wheat and oats is to note the state of the

Much less loss attends the reaping of

wind ; and some sorts of white wheat

are thus very subject to fall out, even

chaff in the ear, and two or three inches oats too soon than the other grains. Progress ofRipening.-In regard to of the straw under the ear. If these parts are of a uniform straw -yellow colour, and the ripening of oats, Alexander Murray

feel hard in the ear of the oat, and Nether Mill of Cruden , in Aberdeenshire, prickly in the wheat, on being grasped, made experiments to

not merely ascertain they are ripe. On examining the grain the natural progress

itself, it should feel firm under pressure between the finger and thumb , and the neck of the straw should yield no juice on being twisted with the fingers and

towards ripeness,but the

state

of

the

grain at the different

thumbs.

stages of ripening Barley should be of a uniformly yellow He could distinguish

colour in the grain and awns, and the 6 stages.

The

ist

rachis somewhat rigid ; and as long as stage was the lowest the head moves freely by a shake ofthe leaf, fig. 488, becom hand, neither the grain nor the straw is ing yellow ; the 2d , sufficiently ripe. When very ripe, wheat bends its ear down, opening the chaff, becomes stiff in the neck of the straw , all clearly indicating that nature intends that the grain shall fall out.

Red wheat is less liable

when the next leaf

1

C

2

became yellow ; the 3d, when the third

:3

leaf turned yellow ; the 4th, when the uppermost leaf was

to be shaken than white ; but any kind yellow ; the 5th stage will shake out when too ripe, provided the plant is in good health and the grain of good quality - for it is difficult to make immature grain leave the chaff

of the stem where the panicles are at tached were still Fig. 488. – Progress of

even when hardened .

green ; and the 6th ripening in a stalk of oats.

Degrees of Ripeness . -It might be

was when the parts

was when the stem

supposed that when the ear and the en- of the panicles be uniformly also yellow. straw are tire plant The condition of but by came ripe ; colour, thanyellow is noof more the that time the straw has ripened to the the grain at each of

a Lowest leaf. b Next leaf.

c Third leaf.

d Uppermost leaf. ee e Panicles where they join the stem . 1 , 2 , 3, The 3 uppermost

joints of the stem .

root, and the ear become rigidly bent and these stages of ripe ready to cast its seeds with the slightest ness was easily distinguished from each

wind. When the neck of the straw of other, and then ripeness followed in con barley is ripe, it is, as a rule, time to cut ;

secutive order.

Such was the rapid

and when too ripe the ear bends down, change effected in the condition of the

N

GRAI

56

EST

HARV

.

grain between the 5th and 6th stages, that ever, the work of the harvest has been

it acquired the additional weightof from completely revolutionised. In most parts 1/2 lb. to 2 lb. in one bushel.1

the scythe supplanted the sickle, and now the reaping-machine has driven both into

Harvest Labour.

disuse.

As harvest-work requires more labourIt is interesting to note that, in several ers than live on the farm , a sufficient parts of the country, the sickle survived

number have to be engaged to assist until the reaping-machine was ready to Farms near a large town may take its place. In these parts the obtain the requisite number daily, and scythe never succeeded in obtaining a

them.

in these cases the labourers usually return to their own homes at night. These

footing.

Form of Sickle . - Although the sickle extra day -labourers are paid daily or has lost its position as an important farm weekly, according to arrangement. On tool, it will be of interest to reproduce farmsat a distance from towns, no reli- the following notes and illustrations of

ance can be placed for obtaining labourers the two forms, the toothed and the at harvest. For them labourers are hired smooth - edged sickles, which were em to remain all the harvest on or near the ployed. farm. Such labourers receive food daily, Toothed

Sickle.The toothed sickle

and their money wages are paid at the is represented in fig. 489. It has a blade termination of the engagement.

To ob- of iron, with an edging of steel.

The

tain additional hands for a few days, teeth are formed by striking with a chisel

when a large breadth of corn becomes and hammer, in themannerof file-cutting, suddenly ripe, from the peculiar state of the weather , and to enable hands to ob tain harvest-work whose engagements are

finished, or not yet begun, hiring-mar kets are held at numerous convenient

centres early on Monday morning. REAPING APPLIANCES .

Of the many appliances designed for the reaping of the corn crops three alone -the sickle(or hook ), the scythe, and the reaping-machine - have been extensively

Fig. 489.- Toothed sickle .

employed. These three came into use in the order named, the first having as yet the cutting being only on the lower side ; had the longest lease of life.

Except on

but when the blade has been bent to the

very small holdings and for odd purposes, proper form, tempered, and ground on the

the reaping-machine has entirely super- smooth side, the serratures are brought seded both the sickle and the scythe, and prominently out on the edge of the blade; in its many forms and developments is and as the striking of the teeth is per performing the work in an expeditious, formed in a position oblique to the edge satisfactory, and economical manner. of the blade, at an angle of about 70°, the Sickle

or

llook . "

serratures on the edge acquire what is called a hook towards the helve, thus

As late as 1868, when the third edition causing the instrument to cut keenly in of this work was being prepared for the that direction when drawn through the press, the sickle was considered to be still standing corn. When the blade has been

employed so extensively as to warrant the thus finished, a wooden helve of the sim retention of the detailed account given in plest form is fitted upon the pointed tine former editions of the manner of reaping at its root. with the sickle. Since that time, howSmooth -edged Sickle.— The large, smooth -edged sickle, is represented in fig. 1 Trans. Iligh. Agric. Soc., Jan. 1847, 624.

490. It has a curvature approaching very

REAPING APPLIANCES.

57

near to that which, in this implement, than either scythe or machine reaping, may be termed the curve of least exer- the latter requiring least of all. tion ; and throughout that portion of the Thraving. - Reapers with the sickle

sickle which performs the cutting pro- were in most cases paid by piece-work cess, it possesses this peculiar property by so much per thrave cut. A thrave

from the following circumstance, that consists of two full stooks of corn, each lines diverging from the centre of the handle of the sickle, and intersecting the curve of the cutting edge, all the diverging lines will form equal angles with the

stook of oats and barley consisting of 12 sheaves, and of wheat 14 sheaves, and each sheaf measuring 3 feet in circumference or

tangents to the curve at the points of

12 inches in diameter at The proper the band.

size of Sheaf was

as

certained by a sheaf gauge.

Sheaf - gauge. — This tool, as an object of curi

d с

osity, is shown in fig. 491.

C

When used , the prong of the gauge embraces the sheaf when lying on the ground, along the band, and if the sides and top

Fig. 491. - Sheaf gauge.

of the gauge slip easily abcdProng ofgauge. down Fig. 490. - Large smooth -edged sickle .

and

touch

the ab Points of prong.

band , the sheaf is of the

cd Upper part of prong.

required size, the prongs being one foot long and one foot asun This property gives to the der inside.

a Centre of the handle of the sickle .

intersection.

cutting edge a uniform tendency to cut at every point in its length without any other exertion than a direct pull upon

Scythe.

The scythe is a more expeditious tool the helve. than the sickle. With a given number From these circumstances, it may be of men and women, it enabled the farmer supposed that this is a much easier im- to cut down his crop much more speedily plement to cut with than the toothed than was possible with the sickle. The

sickle ; and so it really is, but the dex- introduction of the scythe therefore led terous use of either implement depends to the general abandonment of the sickle. altogether on habit and practice. In certain parts, where there was an

Sickle still used.—Upon very small holdings the sickle is still in use in many parts of the country. It has this advantage, that women can work it as well as men, while, for the former, the scythe is

abundant supply of cheap labour, the sickle maintained its hold until the over whelming superiority of the reaping-ma chine drove it into the limbo of forgotten things. It is therefore true, though it may not a suitable implement. Upon large

farms, too, the sickle is sometimes em- seem strange, that in certain districts the ployed in reaping portions of the crop scythe was first used to cut “ roads " for

which have been laid and twisted by the reaping-machine. stormy weather.

As late as 1889 large

Hainault Scythe. — Many different

forms of the scythe have been employed. on this account reaped by the sickle. It The Hainault or Flemish scythe may be is a tedious and costly process, however, regarded as an intermediate implement fields in the Lothians of Scotland were

and should be resorted to only where it between the sickle and the cradle-scythe.

is impossible to work the reaping-machine It is held in the right hand by a handle or scythe with satisfaction .

14 inches long, supported by the fore

Reaping by the sickle requires of finger, in a leather loop. The blade, 2 course a larger supply of hand -labour feet 3 inches in length, is kept steady in

ST

GRAIN HARVE

58

.

a horizontal position by a flat and pro- an iron ferrule brought down over the jecting part of the handle, 412 inches tine, binding it firmly to the wood, the long, acting as a shield against the lower blade being further supported by the

partof the wrist. The point of the blade addition ofthe light stay, the grass-nail. is a little raised, and the entire edge

The minor helve, 3 feet in length, often much shorter, is tenoned into the princi

pal, and the two handles are adjusted by wedges in the usual way to the height and mode of working of the mower, the distance between the helves at the handles

being about 24 inches.

The craille or rake consists of a little wooden standard, about 8 inches high, jointed to the heel of the blade, so as to

fold a little up or down across the blade. Into this are inserted three or four slen

der teeth, following the direction of the

blade, and from 6 to 15 inches long : the head of the standard is supported by a slender rod of iron, which stretches about

Fig. 492. - Reaping with the Hainault scythe.

18 inches up the handle, where it is secured by a small screw-nut capable of being shifted up or down to alter the position of the standard and its teeth to

the suit the lay of the corn. tound.avoidBystriking bevelledofupwards fig. 492 an the cradle was

surface

The function of the

to carry

idea of the form ofthe Hainault scythe the cut corn round with the sweep of the and its hook, and of the mode of using scythe. Except for a very short crop, them in reaping corn as described, may however, the cradle is really not neces be formed.

In 1825, the author of this work ac companied the Flemish reapers, Jean B. Dupré and Louis Catteau , through For

farshire, and drew up a report of their proceedings in that county for the High land and Agricultural Society. The im

pression onthe farmers present was, that a saving of about one- fourth might be effected by the Hainault scythe in com parison with the common sickle ; but it

was not equal in its work to our cradle scythe, and therefore never came into g

general use in this country.

Common Scythe.—The scythes used in this country still exhibit different The helve or sned is usually made of wood, in two short branching arms, as shown in fig. 493, or in one

a

forms.

long piece, as in fig. 494. Cradle.— The cradle -scythe, once very

Fig. 493. -Craille-scythe for reaping. e Right- hand handle. a Scythe -blade. b Principal or left helve. d Minor or right helve . c Grass - nail.

[ Left-hand handle. g Cradle or rake with

its stay.

common in the north -east of Scotland, is

represented in fig. 493. In this form sary, and was latterly to a large extent the scythe-blade is 3 feet 4 inches to 3 dispensed with . Setting a Scythe. — In setting the feet 6 inches long. The principal helve is 4 feet in length, to which the blade is blade, the following rule is observed : attached in the usual way, the hook of When the framed helves are laid flat on the tine being sunk into the wood , and a level surface, the point of the blade

REAPING APPLIANCES.

should be from 18 to 20 inches above

59

sharpening tools. An edge put on at a

that surface, and measuring from a point short angle is easily and speedily blunted. on the left helve, 3 feet distant from the

Method of Scythe - reaping. --- Al

heel of the blade, in a straight line ; the though reaping with the scythe is now exception , it may be useful to repro extremity of the blade should be also 3 the exception, feet distant from that point. duce the following details as to the Iron Scythes. — Iron has, in many method of scythe-reaping. cases, been substituted for wood in the

Reaping with the scythe is best exe

construction of the helves; but it is not cuted by the mowers being placed in

by any means so well adapted to the purpose as the wooden helves. If iron helves are made sufficiently light there is too much elasticity in the fabric, which is fatiguing to the workman, by reason

heads- namely, one head of three scythe men, three gatherers, three bandsters, and one raker; or, as some would pre fer, one head of two scythemen, two gatherers, two bandsters, and one raker.

of the tremor produced at every stroke A number of heads on the second of the scythe ; and if they are made suffi- arrangement may be employed on a large ciently rigid, the scythe is too heavy for farm , while a small farm may employ one head on the first arrangement.

the workman ,

Straight Sned.

- The blade of the

The best beginning of scythe-reaping

common scythe with the straight sned, a field is to mow the ridges parallel with

fig. 494, is mounted on the same principle the fences from the top to the bottom , or from the bottom to the top, as the corn happensto be laid ; and ifnot laid, with the inclination of the corn by the wind .

After this, both the head -ridges should be mown in the direction of the wind. Both acts can be done at once with two heads of mowers . Thus the four sides

of the field are opened up, leaving angles of the standing corn to commence future operations across the ridges. Every head should be led by an experienced and

steady mower . Fig. 495 gives the arrangement of one head of work -people engaged in scythe reaping, three scythemen being intro duced to show the three different forms

of scythes. The foremost mower has a scythe with a bent sned, the middle

mower with a straight sned, and the Fig. 494. - Common reaping -scythe.

hindmost with a cradle scythe.

These

a Cradle.

all lay over the corn in equally beautiful swathes. The women - gatherers follow each and the same manner as the blade of the bent sned, fig. 495. This scythe with the mower, making a band from the swathe,

straight sned may also be mounted with and laying as much of the swathe upon ed, it as will make a sizable sheaf, an SO and held in its position with a light stay carefully as to leave the ends of the

a cradle, fixed on the head of the between the cradle and the sned.

bands free for the bandster to take hold

Sharpening Scythes. — When any of of easily and quickly.

The gatherer

the scythes are used in reaping, the should be an active methodical person , strickle and the scythe-stone are much

otherwise she will make rough work .

in requisition.

The bandster follows her, and binds the sheaves, a : y two of the three band

They should be used

only as often as to keep a keen edge on the blade. Experienced reapers keep a “ long " rather than a “ short ” edge on theirscythes, and thus require less of the

sters setting the stook together ; and in taking the sheaves across the ridges, the stooks should be set upon the same ridge,

GRAIN HARVEST.

60

in order to their removal by the cart with haps rather more, in one day ; and from one and a half to two acres of oats and

the least trouble.

Last comes the raker, to clear the barley. Another Method.—In some parts of ground between the stooks with his large hand stubble -rake of all loose straws, and the country it was the custom in cutting

brings them to a bandster, who bundles with the scythe to lay the swathe up them by themselves, and sets them at the against the standing corn, and to gather

side of a stook, and not at its end, to it while in that position. Why this mode obstruct the ventilation of the air through of disposing of the swathe should be pre it. When the mowing and gathering are ferred to laying it flat on the ground, it properly executed, the rakings should is difficult to conjecture, unless to conceal not exceed from 4 to 5 per cent of the the awkwardness of the mower, for not one single advantage does the method Speed with the Scythe. The speed possess ; while the disordered condition

crop.

of the scythe is considerable. A good in which the corn is taken away by the mower will cut an acre of wheat, or per- gatherer from the standing corn, com 6

Fig. 495.- Mowing corn with the scythe. aaa Swathes of corn . obb 3 mowers .

ccc 3 gatherers. d d Open sheaves.

e Bandster binding a sheaf. ff Bandsters setting a stook . g Stook .

h Man raker.

i Hand stubble - rake. k Bound sheaf.

pared with lifting it clean from the flat seded the slower and older appliances for ground, is of itself a sufficient objection cutting down the corn crops. to the practice. Historical. But the almost universal adoption of

the reaping-machines has rendered it un-

Although it did not come into exten

necessary for the present race of farmers sive use until near the middle of the

to acquaint themselves with the working nineteenth century, the reaping-machine of either the sickle or the scythe, useful is by no means a modern invention. It as these appliances have been in their is indeed much older than is generally day.

believed .

Ancient Machine. — Both Pliny and THE REAPING -MACHINE.

Palladius describe a reaping - machine worked by oxen, which was much used

In all parts of the United Kingdom , in the extensive, level plains of the Gauls.? and on almost all farms of any consider

able size, the reaping-machine has super-

1 Dic. Gr, and Rom . Anti. - art. " Agric. "

THE REAPING-MACHINE.

61

Pliny's words are : “ In the extensive ing -machine that excited much interest, plains of Gaul large hollow machines are and possessed considerable promise. Its employed, with teeth fixed to the fore- principle was the revolving circular

part, and they are pushed forward on two smooth -edged cutter, supported in a car wheels through the standing corn by an riage-frame, with two main -wheels only. ox yoked to the hind-part ; the corn cut A pair of long horse - shafts projected off by the teeth falls into the hollow part forward at one side, so that the horse of the machine." walked alongside the standing corn - thus Nineteenth Century Machines. — It drawing the machine. The circular cut is known that before the advent of the ter was ingeniously overlapped by a sort nineteenth century several attempts had of shield, armed with pointed prongs, been made to devise a workable reaping machine. No authentic information has

projecting in front of the cutter, which served to collect and to hold the straw

come down to us as to the actual struc-

until the cutter had done its work.

ture of these abortive machines.

complicated and peculiar apparatus was

A

But soon after the commencement of applied as a gatherer, to collect and de

the nineteenth century, when agricultural liver the cut corn in small parcels like improvements were making progress in handfuls. This machine, as given in the every direction, and in particular by the Farmer's Magazine, vol. vii., appears to

extension of the use of improved machi- have possessed great ingenuity of contri nery to the various branches of farming, vance as a whole. Its cutter also ap

active attention was successfully devoted to the invention of a reaping-machine. With the object of stimulating inventors, agricultural societies offered premiums,

pears to have been formed on a sound principle ; and it was, besides, provided

with an apparatus by which the cutting edge could be whetted as often as neces

and we know that within the first twenty- sary without stopping the action of the five years of the century nearly a score machine.

Its gathering apparatus, how

of reaping-machines, less or more distinct ever, carries too conclusive evidence that in pattern, and invented by different upon that member of the construction the men, were introduced into public notice whole design had failed , and the machine in England and Scotland.

Boyce's Reaping - machine.--- Very early in the century we learn of Boyce's reaping-machine, for which he secured a patent. This was based on the revolvingcutter principle ; but the revolver was armed with a series of short scythes, which cut the corn as the machine moved

sank into oblivion like its predecessors. Salmon's Reaping-machine.—At a

still later period Mr Salmon of Woburn brought out a reaping-machine, under promising circumstances. In this there appears the first indications of a cutter

on the clipping principle, combined with an apparatus for collecting and deliver

along. It was destitute, however, of a ing, that promised to lay the cut corn in

proper apparatus for gathering and de- parcels like sheaves ready for binding. positing the corn after being cut, and Although this invention seems to have hence it never reached any degree of been brought out under the most flatter success .

Plunket's

Reaping - machine.

About the same period, Plunket, a London implement-maker, made a similar attempt, also on the revolving principle ; but in place of the scythe of Boyce, he adopteda circular cutter, toothed like a fine saw or sickle. Being also destitute of a proper gathering apparatus, this

ing hopes of success, it does not appear to have ever obtained the approbation of

the class for whose use it was intended , and has been, like its precursors, almost forgotten. Scott's

Reaping - machine.

Soon

after 1815 Mr Scott of Ormiston, East

Lothian, factor to the Earl of Hopetoun, invented a machine which had a cutter

machine acquired no reputation, and acting on the revolving principle, though speedily was laid aside. not a circular cutter, but a wheel carry Gladstone's Reaping - machine.- ing sixteen small-toothed sickles, and had About the same time, 1806, Glad- projecting prongs in front of them , like stone, a millwright, of Castle-Douglas, Gladstone's. This machine was supplied

Kirkcudbrightshire, brought out a reap- with other contrivances, such as a brush

GRAIN HARVEST.

62

to keep the cutters free of stubble or for the other. But the curiosity of it is weeds, which might otherwise have stop- lessened from the consideration that ped their proper action ; but with all similar coincidences are not uncommon

these precautions and auxiliary append- amongst mechanists. ages, it never performed beyond a mere trial.

Kerr's Model of a Reaping -ma

chine. - A case of this kind actually

Ogle and Brown's Reaping -ma- occurred at the period of Mr Smith's in chine. — About 1822 , Mr Ogle, at Ren- vention of his reaping-machine, in Mr A. ington, nearAlnwick,invented amachine, Kerr, of Edinburgh, having produced a

by which he and a Mr Brown of Alnwick small model proposed as a reaper, in engaged to combine every act of reaping, which the cutter and gatherer were ex except binding and placing the sheaves actly on the same principle as those of in stook.

This machine is reported to

Mr Smith, and were admitted to be so

have performed very satisfactorily in by that gentleman. Deanston Reaper. - Mr Smith of the field upon wheat and barley ; but in consequence of no encouragement Deanston, afterwards so well known as being given to the makers, the manufac- an agriculturist, came on the field with

ture of the machine was dropped after the first complete specimen was made. The inventor, in 1826 , published a drawing and description of the machine in the

his reaping -machine in the year 1812, with very considerable promise of success . He adopted the continuous rotatory ac tion, and although his first trials were Mechanics Magazine, vol. v. , from which not altogether successful, they were such the following abstract is taken . The as led to a series of improvements that framework or body of the machine closely brought the machine to a degree of effi resembled a skeleton of a common cart, ciency which promised ultimate success. with its wheels and shafts, to the latter The Dalkeith Farming Society had pre

of which the horses were yoked to draw viously offered a handsome premium for

the machine, walking by the side of the the invention of an effective reaping standing corn. To the right of the car- machine, and Mr Smith became the only riage was projected the cutting apparatus

competitor in 1812 .

In the following

--- a light frame, whose front bar was of year the machine, in its improved state, iron, and armed with a row of teeth 3 was again exhibited in operation before

inches long, projecting forward ; imme a committee of the Dalkeith Club, when diately upon these teeth lay the cutter, a they, although not considering it entitled

straight-edged steel knife, equal in length to the full premium , voted to Mr Smith a piece of plate, value fifty guineas; and shortly after, the Highland and Agricul tural Society having appointed a com mittee to examine and report on its effi ciency, found that report so satisfactory Above, and a little before the cutter, a that a piece of plate of fifty guineas'

to, and a little more than the breadth of,

the corn to be cut at one passage. By a motion from the carriage -wheels, this knife was made to vibrate rapidly from right and left, as the machine travelled. fan or vane was, from the same source,

value was in like manner voted to the

made to revolve, which thus collected inventor, and at the same time a com and held the corn to be cut by the knife; plete model of the machine was lodged and, on being cut, was by the vane car- by Mr Smith in the Society's Museum ,

ried backward, and laid upon a deal plat- and afterwards transferred to the Tech form immediately behind the cutter : nological Museum . here, by the assistance of a man with a Mr Smith introduced many improve rake, it was collected to the extent of a ments in his machine between 1812 and sheaf, and then discharged. 1835. In the latter year, in its improved

There is here observable a very curious form , it was brought out with renewed coincidence in the almost perfect same- hopes of success at the Highland and ness, in every point, between Ogle and Agricultural Society's Show at Ayr,

Brown's machine and M'Cormick's Amer- where it was exhibited in operation with ican reapers, to be afterwards noticed. remarkable éclat. The experiment was The similarity is so perfect, that the de- made on a field of wheat in a fair condi scription of either would suit equally well tion for being cut by a machine. The

THE REAPING-MACHINE.

63

operation began, not on the outside, as was method of drawing instead of pushing. usual, but right in the middle of the field . From this period to 1830 he was, from The passage of the machine through the time to time, engaged in completing his

field left behind it an open lane, where improved design, and his improved ma nothing was at first observable but a bare chine was exhibited at the Highland and

stubble, the cut corn being all laid down at one side against the standing. Never, perhaps, did an experiment come off with better effect or greater success ; the general impression was that the problem had at last been solved — that Smith'smachine was complete. Not so was it, however, in fact ; for, notwithstanding the striking

Agricultural Society's Show held at Kelso in 1832. On this occasion we had ample opportunity of studying its con struction , and also witnessed its trial on a small portion of a field of oats, per

formed under very unfavourable circum stances. On the whole, although the trial called forth much approbation, the

effects produced by that day's trial, the judges could not take upon them to re machine remained, and to this day re- commend a premium . Yet it is our

mains, without making further progress. opinion that the principles of that ma It is more than probable that the fail- chine, in the hands of an able mechani ure of this machine rested mainly on the cian possessed of capital (for of that com following defective points : ist, from modity, like many others of his kind, the its great length and weight it was un- inventor was deficient), might have placed

wieldy in all its movements ; 2d, from its great length , also, and from the mode of attachment of the horses, together with the want of a swivel-carriage either before or behind, it was defective in turning at a landing ; 3d, from the small diameter of the bearing front wheels, and especially from these being placed nearly directly under the centre of the revolving cutter,

it foremost in the competition for the solution of the problem.? First Effective Reaping-machine. Of all the reapers hitherto taken notice

of in this work, it is believed that not one of them was ever worked throughout a harvest. Even Smith's and Mann's machines, which were the most perfect,

this important member,when these wheels do not appear to have been worked be fell into a furrow, ran right into the brow yond a few hours consecutively. Their of the adjacent ridge, and thus destroyed actual capabilities, therefore, seem never for the time its whole edge, its projection to have been properly tested. before the wheels being nearly 272 feet ; Bell's Reaping -machine. — The year and 4th, it may be stated as an objec- 1826 may be held as an era in the history tion, that the price could not be much of this machine, by the invention, and

under £50. Mann's

the perfecting as well, of thefirst really Reaping - machine.

Mr effective mechanical reaper.

This inven

Joseph Mann, Raby, Cumberland , tion is due to the Rev. Patrick Bell, brought out a reaping-machine in 1820, minister of the parish of Carmylie in in the state of a working model, before Forfarshire. the Abbey Holme Agricultural Society,

The principle on which its cutting

who expressed their approbation of the design, and advised a horse-power machine to be constructed with some proposed alterations, one of which was that the horses should push instead of draw the machine, the model having been upon

operation acts is that of a series of clip ping shears. When the machine had been completed, Mr Bell brought it be fore the Highland and Agricultural So ciety, who appointed a committee of its members to inspect its operation in the

the drawing principle. These alterations field, and to report. The trials and the seemed to have turned out rather unsuc-

cessful, for in 1822 a full-size machine was exhibited to the same society. But the mechanist having endeavoured to satisfy too many opinions, his machine

report being favourable, the Society awarded the sum of £50 to Mr Bell for his invention, and a correct working model of the machine was subsequently placed in the Society's Museum. The

became so complicated that its success invention shortly worked its way to a

was doubtful, and it fell aside till 1826, when Mr Mann returned to his favourite

1 Jour, Agric., i. 250.

64

GRAIN HARVEST .

.496. .Fig machine reaping --Bell's

considerable extent in Forfarshire ; and tour through that county, saw several of in the harvest of 1834, we, in a short these machines in operation, which did

TU

S E N EN N AN

O M

w

w

W

w

w

W

VM

SO SI

2

their work in a very satisfactory manner. pal seat of their manufacture, and from Dundee appears to have been the princi- thence they were sent to various parts of

THE REAPING -MACHINE .

65

the country. It is known, also, that four stretched over the two rollers, n n.

The

of the machines were sent to the United light iron bars, v v, serve to carry the re States of Americ ; and this circumstance volving fly, w , or vane to collect and carry renders it highlya probable that the y be the cut corn to the web. The vane, w, came the models from which the numerous so -called inventions of the American

derives its motion from a pulley fixed on the extreme end of the small shaft, p ,

reapers have since sprung. At the great another, x , being fixed on the extremity fair or exhibition held at New York in of the axle of the vane, w ; and a small

1851, not fewer than six reapers were band passing round these pulleys com exhibited, all by different hands, and each claiming to be a special invention ; yet, in all of them, the principal feature—the cutting apparatus - bears the strongest evidence of having been copied from Bell's machine.

Construction . To enable readers to

pletes the motion. The vane, w , is readily adjustable upon the light arms, v v, to suit any height of grain, and also in dis tance horizontally, to suit the delivery of the cut grain upon the web, o. This machine was worked by two

horses, pushing it before them by means

form a just conception of the construction of the pole, 8, to which they were yoked and principles of Bell's machine, and to by the common draught-bars. compare it with other early attempts, a

The cutter consists of a fixed bar of

plate is given, showing a full view, in perspective, of Bell's reaper in its most genuine form . The machine consists, first, of an open carriage-framework of carpentry about 4 feet wide, the same in length, and about 3 feet high, marked a a in fig. 496. This is supported on two principal wheels, 6 b, about 4 feet in diameter, and two minor wheels, c c, 18 inches in diameter, supporting the fore-

iron, r r , 6 feet in length, so that it pro jects over and clears a passage for all the bearing-wheels and other projecting points in the machine. The bar is strongly attached to the fore-part of the framework by two iron brackets, and to the bar are firmly bolted the thirteen fixed blades of the shears. The twelve movable blades are likewise attached to the same bar, each upon a joint-bolt.

part of the carriage, to the front bar of Each of these last blades is prolonged which the cutting apparatus is attached backward in a tail-piece, till they rest in The axle of the main wheels, 6 b, passes the vibrating bar, k, where the extremity quite through the carriage -frame, and

of each tail rests between two pegs, which

supports it by turning in bearings fixed serve as a secure but simple and loose to the middle horizontal bars on either joint for it. side. On this axle is fixed a bevel-wheel, The revolving vane, w , in front serves

e, 20 inches in diameter, turning with the to catch hold of and retain the corn main wheels and axle and gearing into against the onward pressure of the cutter;

the bevel-pinion,f, fixed upon the sloping but their chief duty is to assist in laying shaft, 9, which, at its lower end, carries a the cut corn upon the endless web, o. short crank, h. This last, by means of The duties of the web are very simple,

the connecting -rod, i, gives the vibrating being merely to convey the cut corn to motion to the cutter-tail bar, k , to which right or left, and to deliver it upon the

bar the tails of the movable blades of the ground, which it does with a regularity series of shears are loosely jointed. perfectly sufficient for the purpose of The bevel-wheel, e, gives motion also to being gathered into sheaves. the small sloping shaft, l, through a pinion Work done.—In the process of work not seen in the figure ; and at the upper ing this machine, Mr Bell's practice was end of this shaft, by means of the two to employ one man driving and conduct small mitre-wheels, m , motion is given to ing the machine; eight women are re a small horizontal shaft , p , on the end of quired to collect the cut corn into sheaves, which a combination of three bevel-wheels and to make bands for these sheaves ; and clutch at a gives motion to the first four men to bind the sheaves, and two web -roller, making the web, o (which is men to set the sheaves up in stooks

here represented as torn off to expose the being in all fourteen labourers, besides parts below ), revolve to right or left, as the driver of the horses, whose time desired. The web, o, when in action, is reckons along with them ; and the work VOL. III.

E

GRAIN HARVEST.

66

performed averaged 12 imperial acres per and yet, with practical agriculturists, it day. These data were obtained from did not seem to gain so high a reputation fourteen years' experience of the machine, as its American rivals — the machines of and are therefore reliable.

Hussey and M'Cormick — yet to be de

Cost of Reaping. — The expense in scribed. Merits and Faults of Bell's Reaper . money for reaping by this machine about 1835 averaged 38. 6d. an acre, including -" There have always,” says the Report the expense of food to the workers. This, of the Royal Agricultural Society on the in round numbers, was a saving of one- exhibition and trial of implements at half the usual expense of reaping by Chelmsford ( 1856), “ been some points hand, at the lowest calculation ; and the of excellence in Bell’s machine not shared saving on a farm where there might be by any other. The power of cutting in

100 acres of cereal and leguminous crop any direction, of delivering the corn on would do more than cover the price of a either side, right or left, and of requiring

machine of the best quality in two years. no scytheman to prepare its way, are ad vantages peculiar to this machine. These Slow Progress of Bell's Reaper.It is difficult to account for the fact have hitherto been considered as counter

that Bell's machine was not more exten- balanced by the excessive draught of the sively adopted. For a period of nearly machine, by the liability of the delivery

twenty years it was successfully used; web to become disordered, and by the

WA DU

WILMS SS

Fig. 497. - Dray's Hussey reaping -machine in perspective.

labour and difficulty of steerage. These drawbacks have, since last year, been in a considerable degree removed. The delivery-web has been superseded by three

Hussey's being manufactured by Messrs Dray & Co., engineers, of Swan Lane, London Bridge, London ; M‘Cormick's by Messrs Burgess & Key, Newgate

gutta -percha bands, which , without de- Street, London. These firms introduced ducting from its former efficient delivery, has reduced friction and greatly diminished draught. Other minor alterations have been made, still further diminishing draught."

great improvements in the machines which they respectively manufactured, so much so, that there would be some difficulty in recognising in them the same machines, the appearance of which,

Subsequent makers improved on Bell's at the Great Exhibition of 1851 , created machine, and now it exists only as the such an interest in the agricultural groundwork of the modern reaper. American Machines.

world.

Dray's Hussey Machine. — In fig. 497 we give a perspective view of Hussey's

The two machines which, perhaps, did reaper, improved by Messrs Dray. The most to popularise the reaping-machine cost of this machine was £25. in this country were both introduced M‘Cormick’s Reaping -machine. from America. They were known as In M'Cormick's reaper, with the improve

Hussey's and M‘Cormick’s machines— ments introduced by Messrs Burgess &

THE REAPING-MACHINE.

67

Key, Newgate Street, London, the cut- ground at the side of the machine. A tingapparatus and driving -gearpresented special attendant was therefore not re features somewhat similar to those of quired, and the grain, moreover, being Hussey's machine. But while in Dray's delivered at the side, could be left till machine the grain , after being cut, was 1 1

the whole could be conveniently bound

delivered to a platform , the working of up . which required a special attendant, and In fig. 498 we give a perspective view the grain delivered to the ground in of M -Cormick’s machine, the cost of quantities sufficient tomake a sheaf, was which was £42, 1os. required to be immediately bound up in Modern Reaping -machines. order to clear the path for the return From these small beginnings in the journey of the machine in Burgess & Key's the cut grain was at once delivered invention and manufacture of reaping

to a screw platform , and passed to the machines a great industry has sprung h

W

owoce

Fig. 498. — M'Cormick's reaping -machine.

up, from which the agriculture of this ing -machine is now produced in many country has derived benefits of inestim- forms, less or more distinct, suited for The firms in the United different purposes and different condi Kingdom who manufacture reaping -ma- tions of soil and climate. There are the

able value.

chines are now numbered by the hun- simple mower, adapted merely for mow dred, and the larger firms send out several thousand machines every year.

ing hay and leaving it lying as it is cut ; the combined mower and reaper,

Many improvements have been introduced with the view of simplifying the construction, reducing the draught, lessening the cost, and increasing the efficiency and general usefulness of the

which may be arranged not only to cut the crop, but also to gather it into sheaves or swathes ; the back -delivery, the side-delivery, the self-delivery, and the reaper in which the sheaves are

machines.

turned off by the hand -rake. And last,

Varieties of Machines. — The reap- and greatest of all, comes the combined

GRAIN HARVEST.

68

Force employed . The force of la reaper and binder, which is now an established success, performing its intricate bourers required to keep a reaping

and difficult work in a most admirable machine going varies chiefly with the rate of the reaping and weight of the Draught.—Most reaping-machines are crop, but partly also with the form of

manner.

arranged for the draught of two horses. the machine, whether for self or manual

Some may be workedby one horse, and delivery. With the self-delivery reaper others occasionally require three horses. Price.- The prices of the different reaping and mowing machines vary greatly, from £14 to £ 25, according

one man to drive the horses is sufficient

on or at the machine.

The manual-de

livery reaper requires an experienced and careful person to deliver the sheaves, and

to strength and other features. In re- a man or lad to drive the horses. cent years there has been a marked To “ lift ” the sheaves, bind, and stook

reduction in price, and this, accompanied by increased efficiency, has given a great impetus to the employment of machines in cutting the hay and corn crops. The combined reaper and binder costs from £38 to £45. Perfect Workmanship . — The work

them , from six to ten persons will be re quired, according to the rate of reaping and the weight and bulk of the crop . It is the custom in some parts to have boys making bands, women lifting the sheaves on to the bands, and men to bind and stook . In other cases women make

accomplished by the leading reapers and bands, lift and bind, the stooking being mowers is now as nearly perfect as might done by men. In many parts, chiefly in be.

Unless the crop is very seriously

the south of England, men do all the

laid and twisted, the improved machine manual harvest-work. will pick it up and cut it from the ground In many cases the raking is now ac in the most regular and tidy manner, complished by a rake attached to the leaving a short even stubble.

Now and

rear of the reaper .

When this is not

again a corn crop is laid and twisted by provided the work has to be done by a a storm so as to defeat the reaping-ma- horse-rake, or by a rake drawn by a chine; but the possibilities of the modern machine are indeed wonderful.

man or lad.

Cost of Reaping. — The cost of reap

Speed . - The speed of the reaping- ing grain by the reaping-machine, includ machines varies considerably, according ing cutting, binding, stooking (or shock to the width and general make of the machine, the character of the ground and the crop, and the horses

employed. The extent reaped in a day of ten to twelve hours would perhaps run from 8 to 14 acres, the greatest breadth of course being cut where the machine can work contin

uously along all sides of the field.

This, however, is possible only when the crop stands tolerably erect.

If

a strong wind is blowing, or if the crop is bent to a considerable ex

tent, it is advisable, to ensure good work, to cut only in one direction

— against the “ lie ” of the crop .

Fig. 499. - Harrison and M'Gregor's self

The machine in this case returns

raking reaper.

" empty ” and out of gear ; and it

is not all lost time that is employed in ing), and raking, will vary with the rate is appreciated by and is beneficial to the the crop, the rate of reaping, and the the return journey — for the relaxation of wages, the nature of the ground and

horses, which can thus go at a smarter

character of the machine, from about 8s.

pace when reaping and work longer to 128. per acre. Much depends upon the season — for it is obvious that when without being fatigued .

THE REAPING-MACHINE.

69

the crop is standing erect, so that it can introduction of the improved reaping be cut continuously around the field, the machine, the work of cutting the grain speed must be greater and the cost less. crops has been not only much accelerated,

Then a heavy crop may require one couple but also in most cases to some extent lessened in cost.

Illustrations of Modern Machines .

-It is not necessary to describe in detail the mechanism of improved reaping-ma

They are now so simple and efficient that any man of average intelli chines.

gence and care can work them perfectly.

It may be interesting, however, to glance at the illustrations of reaping and mowing machines presented in this section, and in that relating to “ Haymaking," with

the object of exhibiting some of the leading types of these admirable appli ances now in use.

Fig. 500. — Howard's self -delivery reaper.

Fig. 458, p. 5, represents Howard's

more to lift and bind and stook than

mower ; fig. 459, p. 5, the “ Munster mower, made by R. & F. Keane, Cap

would suffice for a light crop. See cost of working the binder and reaper, pp. 84, 85 . It is well established that, by the

poquin, County Waterford ; fig. 460, p. 6, the “ Victor” mower, made by Pierce & Co., Wexford ; fig. 462, p . 7, the “ Caledonian Buckeye mower and

Fig. 501. - Samuelson's back -delivery reaper .

reaper, made by Alexander Jack & Sons, Maybole, Ayrshire ; fig. 461 , p . 7, the mower, made by Harrison, Albion M'Gregor, & Co., Leigh, Lancashire ;

fig. 499, the self - raking, side- delivery reaper , made by the same firm ; fig. 500, the “Reliance ” reaper, made by J. & F. Howard, Bedford ; fig. 502,

GRAIN HARVEST.

70

Walter A. Wood's self -delivery reaper ; climate and labour-customs are also re and fig. 501 , back-delivery reaper, made sponsible for differences in the methods of working by Samuelson & Co., Banbury. Reaping Oats. PROCESS OF REAPING . The main principles which should

The detail-work of reaping corn with guide the farmer in arranging the prac the machine varies considerably through- tical work of reaping are applicable alike out the country .

The process is not to wheat, barley, and oats ; yet it will be

quite the same for the different varieties convenient, in the first place, to describe of grain even in any one district, and the the reaping of oats, andafterwards point

THEME

BOR

Fig. 502. - Wood's self - delivery reaper.

out the distinctions relating to wheat reaping-machines, manual and self-deliv ery reapers, the former makes better and barley. Preparing for Reaping . – A day or work with heavy or tangled crops, but

two before reaping is to be begun, " roads” requires an extra man in working. In for the reaping-machine should be cut crops which are moderate in length and with the scythe all round the field or not much twisted , the self-delivery reaper, section about to be cut.

One cut of the with the saving of one man's labour, is

scythe is usually considered sufficiently quite as efficient as the manual delivery. wide, but at the ends where the machine is to be turned it is more convenient to have the “ road ” two cuts wide. The

Self-delivery Reapers. Side - delivery Reapers. — Self - de

corn cut out of the “ roads" is tied into livery reapers are of two classes, back

sheaves, which are laid against the fence and side delivery. In the former the and stooked with the main crop when it sheaves are dropped behind the reaper in the same position as those left by the is being cut.

The scythe is the most convenient manual delivery, while in the latter appliance with which to form “ roads "

they are deposited far enough to the

for the reaping -machine, but in some side to permit of the machine passing,

parts the hook is still employed for this whether the sheaves are tied before it purpose.

comes back again or not.

With the

In reference to the preparation and side delivery a whole field may be cut

sharpening of reaping -machines, see p. without binding any sheaves, while they 4 of this volume. must be bound as the cutting proceeds Manual and Self - delivery Ma- if the back delivery or manual machine chines. — Of the two main classes of is used.

PROCESS OF REAPING.

In the dry climate of the south and

71

crop, and the tidiness with which the

east of England it is often an advantage work is done. In many districts of Scot to cut a crop and let it lie a day or land women do the bulk of the binding ; so before binding, hence side- delivery and if the crop is light or the sheaves machines are those most in use there.

small, most women who know their work

In Scotland, however, the climate is can do as much as the average of men.

so uncertain, that a crop cannot advan- For heavy crops, however, where large tageously be left unbound even for one

sheaves are made, they are not so well

day, because should it once get wet when suited, in which cases three women will lying loose, the difficulty of drying it be required for every two men, or it may again is so great, that it more than coun- even be two women for each man. terbalances any gain which might result In reaping round about, the binders from the method. In there may be distributed in two ways : each In Scotland, Scotland, therefore, the self-delivery reapers are nearly may have a certain distance to do, or a

all of the back -delivery pattern, side-de- certain number of sheaves to tie. If the livery ones being exceptionally rare. crop is moderately regular, no better

Another point in favour of the system

plan need be adopted than that of divid

of binding immediately behind the ma- ing the circumference of the field into chine is that in this way the labourers equal divisions for each binder, and stick work more expeditiously than when they ing a piece of wood into the ground are not pressed by the reaper.

where the one division ends and the

Manual v. Self -delivery Reapers.

other begins.

When a binder has fin

In districts of Scotland having a moder- ished his or her number of sheaves in ate rainfall, and where, consequently, the a swathe, a stoppage is made until the

grain crops are moderate or short in the reaper again comes past, when the work straw , or where labour is comparatively is resumed . scarce in harvest-time, the back -delivery By so doing, all unnecessary travelling reaper is the kind most largely used

backward and forward is done away with ,

Indeed, in the eastern counties the back- and each binder gets a regular share of delivery machine is found everywhere. the good and bad parts of the working crop in In the western and south -western coun- the field . In this system of

ties, however, a self -delivery reaper is every one gets an equal share to do, and seldom seen , and very seldom do they work well ; because in these districts the rainfall is heavy, the straw long and soft, while the whole country is more exposed to wind than on the eastern side of the watershed. The consequence is, that grain crops are usually laid and often much twisted, and in reaping much better work can be done with the manual

cannot avoid doing it ; yet good as the system is where the binders are all on an equality, it is not a suitable one to adopt where there are inefficient persons or learners, as one slow person in the lot keeps back the whole squad. The same system can, of course, be pursued where two or three reapers fol low each other, if a corresponding num

than the self-delivery reaper.

ber of binders can be obtained. If two

Cutting.-In working with either the machines are working, the driver of the manual or self-delivery reaper, cutting second should start as soon as the first is

may be done in two ways - either along half -way round, and the drivers should one side of a field or round about.

If endeavour to keep as near as possible the

the crop is not laid in one direction , the

half circumference of the field apart.

weather is moderately calm , and the crop mostly standing, the roundabout method is the best, as no time is lost returning . Force of Labour. — If the crop is moderately ripe, and the straw dry and

this system of harvesting each binder should properly clean up the ground

In

where each sheaf has been made, before

leaving the spot. Raking. - A drag-rake similar to a

free from grass, so that fairly large hay-rake,but smaller, is often attached sheaves may be made, each man binding to each machine, which rakes the ground

may do from 3 to 5 roods per day, the that was cut the swathe previous. In extent depending very much on the size order to allow the rake to work , the of the sheaves , the thickness of the sheaves as tied must be conveyed back

72

GRAIN HARVEST.

from the standing grain

fully two

breadths of the reaper.

Detecting Bad Work . — Another ad

vantage is that by this method each

After every half-dozen swathes or so of binder's sheaves are all together, so that the reaper, the marking-posts may be the farmer can at once see if any one has moved nearer to the side of the uncut

been doing the work in a careless or

grain, so that disputes may be prevented slovenly manner; whereas by any of the from arising among the binders as to other methods, it is impossible to say who should or should not tie certain by whom the sheaves were bound and sheaves.

stooked after the first or second swathe.

Another Method . By the other sys

tem , where each binder has an equal number of sheaves, each begins near or

Manual-delivery Reapers. The manual-delivery reaper , however,

where they ended the time previously, is still strongly in favour. Its main ad the number of sheaves, not the distance, vantage is that the man who puts off the regulating the place. This system is sheaves can more readily accommodate very well suited for comparatively small himself to the different circumstances of fields where the number of sheaves allot- the crop than any automatic apparatus ted to each binder is not very large, no yet devised can do. Arranging the Force . — Where the larger than each binder can easily count liis or her own share without moving cutting is round about, binding behind backward to do so . the manual-delivery reaper is of course Occasionally the system of each binder exactly the same as if a side or back

having a certain number of sheaves is

delivery machine were used .

Most of

worked on the plan of allowing each to the cutting with the manual - delivery begin always at the same place—the machine is, however, done only along counting of the sheaves being always one side or end of a field. In this case begun at a certain point, usually a the binders may have an equal or any By this method the last two number of sheaves each, or a certain binders should invariably be two of the distance. best, and they should work together, so Where the men putting off the sheaves that if more than the regular number of know their work and attend to it, there

corner .

sheaves are left to them, they can divide is no difficulty in getting them to put off them between them . In this way two their sheaves to within one or two per can easily work up an excess which

cent of the same number every time, and

would be too much for one ; and if the under such circumstances a regular num r

drive

takes careful note each time he

ber of sheaves for each is the better

passes of the quantity left for the last plan. two, he can in the round following give If from inability of the men who put

them a little more or less by driving the off the sheaves, or inequality of the crop, ower next turn ot wider a little

or narr

.

Of course, as the circumference of the

such cann be done with moderate reg ularity, then the better plan is to mea

uncut portion of the field becomes less, sure off a certain distance for each binder, the number of sheaves to each binder

Even with measured distances (a certain

must be reduced . If there is difficulty number of steps of the person in charge ),

in making up the full complement of annoyance occasionally arises between sheaves, the reaper should be driven to binders who are too exacting in what its full width ; and if too many sheaves they should or should not do. A sheaf are left to the last two binders, a nar- is probably dropped just on the division

rower swathe should be taken. By at- line, or it may be a little to the one side tending to these few details, there is very or the other , yet neither of the binders

little difficulty in giving the exact number will own it. The farmer or person in of sheaves to each binder ; and as each charge must of course come along and travels back and begins at or near the

say to whom it belongs ; but in the in

same spot, any learners or less efficient terval the reaper has been stopped, and workers may, without causing any de- with it the work of ten, twenty, or more rangement of the rest of the work, get a persons. less number of sheaves than the others. If two manual-delivery machines are

PROCESS OF REAPING.

73

working together, the one should be cumstances can a single length be used just entering the swathe while the other advantageously. If the band is made of is going out at the other end, so as to a single length of short straw , the ears allow the binders an equal time to tie are sure to be inside the knot, and if they once get wet, they are liable to the sheaves behind each machine. It will be the duty of whoever is in grow before they are again dry. If the charge, be he farmer or overseer, to straw is very long, less can be said

make sure that each binder gets an against the practice ; but even then a equal number of sheaves, and that they few grains will come off the ears of the are efficiently bound . band into the hand every time a sheaf The binders should waste no unneces

is tied .

For one sheaf this does not

sary time in gathering heads or straws, look much, but for a whole day it because if the lifting and binding are amounts to a considerable quantity. If

properly done, there should be few to single lengths are used as bands, the gather.

roots of the straw , not the ears, should

In some cases it has been the custom always be twisted in under the band, to have the band -making and lifting done otherwise the loss from both sprouting by women and lads, and with men fol- and shedding will be even greater than lowing to bind and stook. It is more by the othermethod , which is quite bad expeditious, however, for each labourer enough. to combine the lifting and binding, and Method of Binding . – Going to the leave the stooking or shocking to an- stubble -end of the sheaf, with his face other.

to the corn-end, the binder gathers the Bands and Binding.

spread corn on either side into the middle of the band with both hands, and, taking

The corn -band, fig. 503, is made by a hold of the band in each hand near the taking a handful of corn, dividing it into ends, he turns the sheaf as much round two parts, laying the corn -ends of the

as to place the corn -ends beyond his left

straw across each other, and twisting elbow ; then, crossing the ends of the band, pulls forcibly with the right hand (1

closeto the sheaf,and keeps the purchase thus obtained with the under side of the

b

Fig. 503. - Corn -band ready to receive the sheaf.

left hand, while he carries the end in the right hand, below and behind his left

hand ; and then, taking both ends in both hands, twists them firmly and

a Corn - end of straw. b Twisted knot. cc Band stretched out.

thrusts the twist under the band with

them round so that the ears shall lie

the right hand, as far as to keep a firm hold . In a bound sheaf, the corn -knot in the middle of the band is held firm by

above the twist -- the twist acting as a

knot, making the band firm . The reaper the pressure of the sheaf against the ears then lays the band stretched at length of corn and the twisted part of the upon the ground, to receive the corn with the ears of the band and of the sheaf

away from him .

When the band has been laid on the

band .

Position of the Band.— The band

should always be put on as near the middle of the sheaf as possible, never

ground, the stubble- ends of the straw below the middle, but if anything above in the sheaf should be quickly squared by pushing up any straws that are too far down . The sheaf should then be rolled together from the side next the

it. If put on much below the middle the top of the sheaf spreads out, instead of keeping close together, and if rain comes

on the water runs down

the

standing grain, caught firmly in the centre of the sheaf instead of the outside arms, laid in the band and bound, any of it ; and a sheaf which has been once particularly a large loose straws at the cut end being pulled wetted at the centre, one, rarely dries without being opened off as the sheaf is thrown to one side. The bands should always be made of and spread, unless the circumstances are two lengths of straw , as under no cir- all the more favourable.

GRAIN HARVEST.

74

and wedge. The helve is tenoned into the headand strengthened by iron braces.

Size of Sheaves.

Although large sheaves add consider- The teeth are of steel or iron, 7 inches in ably to the speed with which a crop can length, and set at 4 inches apart, but be tied, theyhinder materially the after- formed in the lower part so that the bend drying of the crop. In the end it will rests on the ground , preventing their therefore be found the most profitable points penetrating and mixing the earth way to make the sheaves as small as with the gleanings. possible, consistent with the length of The best method of fixing the teeth is the crop :

In a short crop with grass by a screw-nut, as in the horse-rake, as

among the straw, they should not be they are easily removed on being broken. over 6 inches in diameter at the band, It is advisable to have the ends of the and in the longest and cleanest straw 10 head hooped with iron , to prevent split ting. inches will be quite sufficient.

Lifting broken Stalks. — If the crop

Although this is commonly called a

is much twisted or tangled, each binder hand -rake, it is really pulled by a leather

should carefully fold upthe heads of the be broken down by the passage of the

standing grain, if these are inclined to reaper.

On some occasions this takes

up considerable time, but it is advis able to have it done, because if the

ears are not lifted up they are liable to be cut off by the next passage of the

machine, and left on the ground instead of being secured in the sheaf.

A young

girl or lad is sometimes employed en tirely at this work. Raking.

b

tua

Rakings from a grain field rarely leave much to the grower after all expenses of

gathering arepaid, because to begin with they are often dirty and full of stones, and,

Fig. 504. - Hand stubble - rake. ab Head of rake.

e Handle .

cd Helve . fcg Iron braces. if once wetted, can rarely be thoroughly dried again. It is a good plan to let ewes or lambs have a run of the stubble strap, attached to the shaft and passed ground after the crop has been removed . over the shoulder of the raker. A light drag -rake, hauled by a boy, If the machines are cutting only one

is perhaps the best way of gathering way, in returning they must pass behind the rakings, as a boy at a wage of from the second row of stooks, in order to one to two shillings a -day can easily give the raker time to rake the space rake from 5 to 7 acres, whereas a

between the first and second rows.

Drying Rakings.— The disposal of rakings during harvest operations has rakes the ground between each row of been a difficulty with many people. If stooks before the stubbles and straws put into sheaves or coils, they are liable are in any way trampled on by the to get wet and be more or less spoiled

man with a horse- rake will do little more than the double of that. If the boy

.

horses' feet, few will bu missed, and all -in fact often wasted. Some farmers maintain that the best, least costly, and

will be clean.

A hand -rake, simple of construction, easiest way is for the raker to thrust is shown in fig: 504. The head is 5 feet each lot as gathered into the very centre long, and should be made of good tough ash, 272 by 2 inches ; the helve 6 feet in height, of the same material, and furnished with a handle that can be fixed in any desired position by means of a ferule

of a stook. They must not be carelessly shoved in under the two end sheaves, because there the wind will blow the rain in on them , and they will be little more secure than if left outside ; but

SHOCKING OR STOOKING.

75

they should be thrust as far in as tobe stormy weather the last pair at the lea clear of the end pair of sheaves. In this position they will be free from rain ; and owing to the current of air through the stook they dry quickly, and at stacking time they caneither be brought in along

if they were not blown over, it would only be because they were entirely in the shelter of the other sheaves. If the sheaves are set up perpendicularly, and

with the sheaves or by themselves.

the pair at the lea end are blown down,

end would at once be blown down ; and

Others, however, object to this plan, then the next pair are similarly exposed ; on the ground that the rakings placed they soon go also, and ultimately the in the centre of the stook interfere with whole stook. If, however, the first pair the drying of the crop . are perpendicular, and all the other pairs have a very slight lean towards the Shocking or Stooking. centre pair, a much more substantial Where the reaper is cutting one way stook is built than if all are set per

only, two stookers or shockers will be pendicularly . required. If two machines are working Placing the Band -knots. — Were the together, three will be sufficient in a corn -knots in the bands set outwards in short-strawed crop, while four may be hard enough worked in a long crop. Shocking or stooking should always begin at the end of the swathe which is first cut, the second stooker beginning

the stook, the rain in a wet season might injure them ; and as they bear a sensible proportion to the corn of the whole stook, the sample might thus be materially in jured. By simply turning the corn a new row as soon as he sees the first knots inwards, and the root-knots out one started, and the others as soon as wards, the injury is prevented. In a possible afterwards, each beginning as fine season the corn -knots may be placed near as possible about the same distance outside.

from the standing grain. An easy guide is for all to follow some particular wheeltrack of the reaper, as these in most circumstances are easily seen . Forming Stooks . In building a stook, the centre pair of sheaves should always be set up first.

But in the hood -sheaves the corn -knots

were generally placed uppermost, and exposed to the rain ; because, were the other side of the sheaf exposed upwards, where a groove runs down the length of

the sheaf, by the straw being gathered

Each sheaf into that form while making the root

should get a good solid dump on its knot of the band, the rain might pene butt end, so as to give it a firm founda- trate by the groove through the body of

tion ; and the two sheaves should be the sheaf, lying in its horizontal posi firmly pressed together at the top, by tion, to the corn in the standing sheaves putting a hand on the outside of each below, and thereby inflict a much greater a little above the bands, and exerting injury than merely spoiling the corn considerable pressure on

these parts.

Each following pair of sheaves should

knots .

Size of Stooks.- In no variety of

be put at opposite ends of the stook, harvesting work is there greater varia in such a position that they only very tion than in that of shocking or stooking, slightly incline their heads towards the simple and plain as it may appear to be. centre of the stook.

In some districts the sheaves are entirely

Theoretical Error .-- In most publi- set up in stooks of four or six sheaves , cations on farming, wherein stooking is

while in others they will be found of all

described, it is generally said that each sizes, up to fourteen or sixteen pairs of pair of sheaves should stand

perpen

sheaves.

By making extremely long

dicularly or independently of the rest of stooks, the risk of their being blown the stook. Such instructions are decidedly wrong, and should not be followed in practice. If the last pair of sheaves at either end in a stook are set up perpendicularly, or so as to stand if the rest of the stook were taken away, it will almost to a certainty be found that in

down by the wind is undoubtedly les sened, but at the same time so is the speed with which they are dried. In a large stook the end pair of sheaves will usually be found ready to stack several days before any of the centre pairs; and if any of the centre pairs get soaked

GRAIN HARVEST .

76

with rain, they will scarcely dry at all, extra tying, although a little, is not unless taken from the centre.

great, and need not deter any one from

A wheat stook of 8 sheaves is shown adopting it, where the circumstances in fig. 505 .

call for such protection from wind and

If the grain is not very tall, fine in the rain. straw , and contains any rye-grass or other Hooding. - Hood - sheaves for oats, although at one time almost universally

adopted, is now seldom practised. Owing to the earlier and shorter harvest of the

present as compared with bygone times, some of the precautions once adopted are not now necessary .

A once common form of " hooding ” is shown in fig. 506. Gaiting.”—Another ancient method

of setting up sheaves, which has now

almost entirely been discarded, is “ gait ing "-viz ., setting up each sheaf singly, where the grain was wet when cut. The band of the sheaf is tied loosely round the straw, just under the corn , fig. 507, and the lower part of the sheaf is made Fig. 505. - Ordinary stook of wheat.

to stand by spreading out the straw's end in a circular form.

Gaitins are set

grass, the stooks should not as a rule be by the bandster upon every ridge ; the larger than eight sheaves, four on each wind whistles and the rain passes through side, and in sheltered situations the num- them . Gaiting is practised only in wet

ber may be advantageously reduced to weather, and even then only when a ripe six sheaves. Very short-strawed crops crop is endangered in standing by a should also be set up in stooks of four or six sheaves, or in exposed situations eight sheaves may be used. Where

the straw is full length, eight sheaves are most generally used, and if the crop is very long, the stooks may con tain ten or twelve sheaves.

“ Pirling.” — A very common and

effective plan of stooking pursued in certain exposed districts of the west

and south -west, is to set up two pairs of sheaves, the one pair at right angles ‫ وی به قلها ا ا را فا‬،

to the other instead of side by side , as in an ordinary stook . The butts of the sheaves are if anything kept a little wider apart than in ordi

nary stooking, and when set up, the

gether about 9 inches under the apex,

Fig. 506.- Barley or oat stook hooded. dd Fourth 2 sheaves set. a First 2 sheaves set. b Second 2 sheaves set.

e Fifth 2 slieaves set.

by a few straws pulled out of the

c Third 2 sheaves set.

ſ Hood - sheaves set.

tops of the four sheaves are tied to

top. This system is called “ pirling ," and, unless in particular districts, was shaking wind. It is used for oats and probably more common half a century barley, wheat never being gaited, be ago than now.

cause when wheat gets dry, after being

Stooks of this class dry much quicker cut in a wet state, it is apt to shake out than those of any other, and withstand in binding the gaitins. Gaitins are apt

astooks. gale which levels almost every other to be upset by a high wind, but after The time required to do the having got a set, it is surprising what a

REAPING BARLEY AND WHEAT.

77

Quick Drying .-- As bright clear sam breeze they will withstand. After being blown down they are not easily made ples are of most value for malting pur to stand again, and then three at least poses, those samples giving a price very are set against each other; but what much in excess of darkened ones, it is

ever trouble the resetting should create, of great importance to a farmer to be they should not be allowed to lie on

able to shorten the period during which

the ground, and it will be found that his barley crop runs risk of damage from the weather. a windy day wins them quickly . Small Sheaves. — Small sheaves, owing Direction of Stooks.—The direction to which the ends of stooks point is a to their being quickly dried to the very

very important one, to which, in many centre, and a much larger proportion of the grain being exposed to the influ ence of the sun and air, are much to be

preferred to large ones, as the latter are apt to darken the grain in the centre of the sheaf.

In an unsettled harvest

large sheaves can scarcely be got dried through, whereas had they been small,

they might have been at least so far dried as to be rickled, where the drying can be completed without much further risk.

A larger proportion of barley than any other grain is threshed from the stook, and small sheaves and stooks are as great

an advantage for such in good bright weather as in times when it is dull and close. Wheat.

Fig. 507.--Gaitin of oats. a Band loosely tied .

b to c Base of sheaf spread out.

Scythe unsuitable. — In the cutting of wheat the scythe has never been ex tensively used . The straw of wheat is so hard that the scythe does not readily

cases, too little attention is often paid . cut it, and when cut by the scythe it is When finished, the stooks should always almost impossible to make a respectable point as nearly as possible between south sheaf of it. Scythe-cut sheaves of wheat and south-west-to the one o'clock sun-

are generally very long, a great many

as the prevailing winds then strike them

ears are in the butt of the sheaf, and the

on the end, and blow right through the stooks rarely ever stand well, even when stook. In this direction the sun dries carefully put up. As a means of harvest

each side of the stook about equally, ing wheat the scythe may, therefore, be which, in a wet or late harvest, is a mat- considered unsuitable. ter of considerable importance . Hook . — The reaping -hook makes good work in wheat, and for opening head Barley. lands is likely to be continued for many

In nearly all respects the harvesting of a long day. barley is much the same as that of oats. Reaping - machines. — The ordinary Barley, however, as has already been in- self and manual delivery reapers all dicated, is rarely cut with a green tint make excellent work in a wheat crop, like oats, but is allowed to stand till it and were suitable for harvesting wheat

is fully ripe, more particularly if it is in- before they could be generally used for tended for malting purposes. For malt- the softer-strawed grains. ing it must all germinate at or near the Self -binders. — In a regular up-stand one time, and ifa portion of the grain is ing crop of wheat no class of machine can not fully ripe when cut, these grains will dowork equal to the binder, and at so be more tardy in germinating.

small a cost.

In wheat of the proper

GRAIN HARVEST.

78

class the binder's highest degree of perfection is attained, and harvesting is done by it with an ease, speed, and accuracy of which, before the days of binders, farmers could have formed no conception.

laid on at a considerable angle, generally about half the slope of an ordinary roof. When about to put on a hood -sheaf, the man catches it with both hands and raises

it against his breast, with the butt -end uppermost. When in this position, he

Time to Cut Wheat. - Wheat should places his hands together, on the side of not be so ripe as barley when cut , but the sheaf farthest from him, and taking

riper than was suggested foroats. When- hold of a portion of the straw in each ever wheat becomes white or yellowish- hand, he pulls the upper three-fourths

white under the ear, it may be cut any of the sheaf partially asunder, making a the lower portions of the straw, much less sheaf. He thenplaces it onthe top of

time, as no more sap can then pass from rough gutter in the under side of the

from the roots, to the ear. If cut rather the stook , carefully guiding the heads of on the early side, the outer skin or brawn the sheaves into the gutter, and mildly

is generally thinner and clearer ; while yet firmly pressing it down on them , in if the crop is allowed to become dead such a position that, below the ears of ripe, the colour is deadened or dulled, the hood - sheaf, about a quarter of the while the outer skin is much thickened. straw is on each side, and one-half right This thickening of the outer skin appar- along the top. ently is a provision of nature to prevent

The hood -sheaf should not be so much

premature decay of the grain. Extra split that the ears of the under sheaves ripe wheat also germinates freely if sub- protrude, nor should it be tied so near jected to rough weather; and although the middle that a gutter can scarcely be early and strong germination is a good made in it, nor yet so near to the butt point in a seed sample, it is rather a that a portion of the straws drop down almost perpendicularly. bad one when it occurs in the stook . Sheaves for Wheat. - Owing to the

When put on , the first hood - sheaf

dryness, stiffness, and length of the straw should cover fully one -half the stook, and of wheat, it is usually advisable to bind

when the other one is put on, the butt

it in larger sheaves than any of the other end of the first one should be slightly

classes of grain . A large sheaf of wheat pushed up. After fixing the second one dries about as easy as a small one of oats similarly to the first, the workman steps or barley ; and whereas oats or barley are to the side of the stook, and carefully easily stooked if small sheaves are made, presses the two butts into each other. it is difficult to satisfactorily put up

The hood - sheaf on the east side should

stooks of small sheaves of wheat. The always be put on first, as the butt of the straw of wheat is so hard and slippery west one shelters it from the west wind, that small sheaves easily slide past one and prevents it from being thrown off. another, and even in calm weather they “ Pros ” and “ Cons ” of Hooding. are difficult to keep on end , and in stormy ---Hooded in this manner, wheat stooks

weather they are almost sure to go down stand a considerable amount of either entirely. Wheat Stooks.–Stooks of wheat are

wind or rain ; but if carelessly done it is worse than useless, as the first gust of

seldom built of less than ten or twelve wind knocks a large proportion of the sheaves, and occasionally more — in fact, hoods off, and if rain falls, both hood small stooks of wheat, such as have been sheaves and stooks are worse wetted than recommended for oats, can scarcely be if they had not been hooded at all. Hood made to stand at all. ing, if well done, is undoubtedly an ad Hooding.-Before the advent of the

vantage, if calm damp weather follow.

reaping -machine, it was customary to In ordinary harvest weather, however,

cover each stook of wheat with two hood- the advantage is questionable, while in sheaves, as shown in fig. 506. For wheat stormy weather it is of no use, and in

these were tied as near as possible to the bright sunshine the hoods are positively butt-end, and were laid along the top of harmful, as the ears are prevented from

the stook, the two butts meeting above being hardened by the rays of the sun. the centre. Both hood - sheaves were After the close, foggy, and warm harvest

THE HORNSBY BINDER.

of 1872, when an enormous quantity of wheat was sprouted in the sheaf and before being reaped, hooding was practised by many farmers to a greater or less extent for a few years; but, the scare of that year wore off, the custom became

79

in a horizontal position, dropping on the ground on its side, quite clear of the machine. Efficiency of the Binder . - The binder, even as now constructe is ad

mirably suited for cutting standing grain

less common, and now it is rarely ever of any kind, more particularly where the seen . straw is not very long. The land should Hooding Oats and Barley . - Both

be laid down with as flat a surface as

oats and barley are also, as already stated, circumstances will permit, otherwise a occasionally hooded.

With them the longer stubble will be left.

hood -sheaves are generally set with the ears up. Instead of being bound very near the butt-end, as is done with the hood -sheaves of wheat, oats and barley

Granted a

moderate crop of standing grain and good weather, these machines do their work in a way which cannot be equalled in any other manner.

When the binder was first introduced, are tied if anything nearer the ears than usual, and the sheaves are set at a much wire was used in tying. As would be

greater angle. Oats are almost always expected, there were strong objections done in this way, but barley is occasion- to the wire, and the substitution of ally done both ways. Where hood -sheaves

twine was a step of the greatest im

are used, the length of thestook must be proportionate to the length of the crop. The stook must not be longer than can be easily covered by the two hood -sheaves, with a small part to spare, so as to drop

portance.

the water clear over the ears of the end sheaves. SELF-BINDER .

The most modern and most expeditious

One drawback to twine is that it is

easily cut by mice, and when these vermin get into stacks of twine-bound sheaves, much trouble may be caused loose sheaves.

The best method of

prevention is of course to keep mice from getting into the stacks. THE HORNSBY BINDER .

method of harvesting grain is by the

automatic combined reaper and binderone of the most useful agricultural inventions of the nineteenth century.

The binder made by Messrs R. Hornsby & Sons, Limited , Grantham , is selected

for detailed description and illustration, General Construction . In the binder because of its having won the first prize the cutting apparatus differs only in de- at the great trial of binders held by the

tails from the ordinary one-wheeled self-

Royal Agricultural Society of England

delivery reaper. The grain as cut falls at Shrewsbury in 1884. Since that across an endless web, which conveys it time numerous important improvements over the top of the driving-wheel to the knotter, where the straw falls into two arms called compressor jaws, which keep it on the knotter-table until a sheaf of any specified size has accumulated .

have been introduced into this as well as other well -known binders.

A sheaf-binding harvester has four

separate operations to perform – viz., cutting, elevating, binding, and deliver

Whenever a sheaf of the desired size has ing the grain. been delivered to the compressors, these Cutting the Crop. relieve the tripper, which sets in motion

the needle ( carrying the binding twine)

The cutting apparatus is, as already

and the knotting apparatus. The needle indicated, similar to that employed in is circular, and in its course it passes the the simple reapers, and need not be par band ( twine) round the sheaf, when the ticularly described. band is caught by the knotter, and alThe illustration, fig. 508, shows Messrs most instantaneously a firm and secure Hornsby's arrangement of finger and its knot is tied, while the needle is drawn method of attachment to the framing of

back ready to operate on a new sheaf. the machine, by which they obtain the As soon as the knot is tied and the string lowest cut without the platform rubbing cut, the sheaf is ejected from the machine on the ground.

This great advantage

GRAIN HARVEST.

So

is gained by the new plan of bevelling The elevating canvases are brought the platform boards and riveting to down below the level of the platform them an under-plate of iron, so that the canvas, so that the one feeds the other fingers may be close to the ground whilst evenly and regularly. This is done by the platform is quite clear of it. means of a novelarrangement of strength The platform canvas for carrying the ening plate enabling the canvas rollers to cut crop to the foot of the elevator is

work lower than in any other.

kept as low as possible, so that even

vases are also shorter, owing to the re duced height of the machine, which, with

The can

the increased diameter of the rolls, re

duces draught and makes the canvases run perfectly with less frequent tighten ing and adjusting. The laths are riveted to the canvas,

Fig. 508. - Finger arrangement,

and are of an improved shape, securing short crops fall readily upon it without easy running over the rollers, and pre any liability to choke the knife.

venting any straws from sticking between

The new pattern reel and reel-support them and the canvas. The canvas rollers run in metallic can be instantaneously adjusted, up or down, backwards or forwards, for deal- bearings. ing with laid, twisted, or heavy crops. Elevator and Platform Rolls.—By The reel has different speeds, so as to a newly patented arrangement, the rolls

adapt it for every contingency of wind for the platform and elevator are made and crop, and for the varying speeds of the full width of the machine, making horses and bullocks.

the canvases more certain than ever in Both inside and outside dividers are their action, the roll ends being recessed

adjustable to suit all crops, making per- into the framing, so that loose straws fect division on the one side, and lifting cannot possibly wind round them. The up hanging ears and cutting every strag- butter-roll is also of full width. gling straw on the other. Elevating.

Conveyor -roll. — The height of the machine is considerably reduced by the

use of a conveyor-roll, to pass the cut

The cut grain is carried up to the crop from the top of the elevators close knotter between canvas elevators, en-

over the top of the main road -wheel to

AN

Bindiny.

EL E

VA

TO

R

tirely out of reach of wind - in fact, the binder-table. See fig. 509. The " Hornsby ” binding mechan ism is exceedingly simple , perfectly automatic in its action, and perfectly reliable in operation. To avoid wear and save power, the binding apparatus remains at rest

pou

EL

EV

AT

OR

CA

COMPE

whilst the cut crop in a steady stream passes down from the elevator, and is

pressed forward by the packers ; but the moment enough has been accum ulated to form a sheaf (of one of the five sizes before determined on, ac cording to the crop ), the binding

RDAO WHEEL

680

Fig. 509. - Conveyor-roll.

mechanism is automatically started, the needle carries the string round the sheaf, the knot is tied , the string cut, the loose end retained for the

fron the time when the crop is cut following sheaf, and the operation is until it lies on the ground in bound complete. sheaves, no wind can reach it. Needle. - A new patent needle, illus

THE HORNSBY BINDER.

The Knotter. The improved Hornsby knotter is shown in fig. 511 , whilst figs.

trated in fig. 510, is now used , which works with much less friction on the

twine.

81

It is also much easier to thread . 512, 513, 514, 515, 516, and 517 show SI

CA

RS

ON

2

EN

KNOTTER

BI

TA

ND

TWINE

BL

ER

ENCER FRAME T'BE

E

RE TA IN ER

70 3J N S

SA

NEEO

LE

SAMA

NLAR

ID67

9

Fig. 510.- Needle ,

the manner in which the knot is tied.

Fig. 518 represents the tied knot.

rough usage a considerable quantity of grain might be knocked out, especially

Delivery of Sheaf.- It is important if the crop were over-ripe. that the sheaves should be delivered

In the • Hornsby" binder the sheaf is

gently, for if they were subjected to firmly held whilst the knot is being tied ;

lut Fig. 511. - Knotter.

Fig. 512. - String laid across knotter.

Fig. 5!3: - Quarter turn, showing position of string on top of jaw .

the ejectors then coming into action press the sheaf near to the ground, and thus it forward, whilst the retainingboards fall, avoids shaking. so as to slide it gently to the ground

At Work . The Hornsby binder may

without liability to shedding. It delivers be worked by two strong horses, but VOL . III.

F

GRAIN HARVEST.

82

many prefer to use three. The horses about an acre and a half per hour. Its will perhaps travel about three miles per daily work is therefore a simple question hour .

of how many hours it is kept in action . The Hornsby binder is shown at work around the field the binder may cut in fig. 519, the sheaves being laid in rows Speed . - At this speed and cutting

al Fig. 514. — Half turn.

Fig. 515. - Whole turn, jawsopen and string entering .

1

Fig. 516. - Jaws closed on string : the string -knife then cuts the ends, and the lever draws the string

off, completing the knot.

by the sheaf- carrier, which lessens the the Wood and M‘Cormick machines in the labour in stooking. Other Binders.

United States of America.

The Howard

binder, made by J. & F. Howard, Bed ford, is represented in fig. 520 ; the Bisset

The manufacture of combined reapers binder (the first brought out in Scotland ),

and binders is now carried on extensively made by Bisset & Sons, Blairgowrie, in by several eminent firms. Each machine fig. 521 . has its own peculiar merits and special Progress of the Binder. admirers, but, as with ordinary reapers, On farms of average size the binder is they are now all wonderfully efficient. The other binders best known in this making much more rapid progress, and is country are theHoward, the Samuelson, a far more serviceable machine, than the

the Bisset, theWood, the M‘Cormick,the manual reaper was at its introduction. Massey, and the Brantford binders. The The experience gained in the manufac two last named are made in Canada, and ture of the ordinary reaper has been fully

SI

S

Fig. 517 .-- Completed knot.

Fig. 518. - K'not tied by the Hornsby binder .

taken advantage of in the manufacture work, it will, as a rule, be found that the of the binder ; and whereas the first reap- crop is too heavy or too much laid and

ers often failed, through the breakage of twisted, or the land unsuitable. some more or less important part, the Judging from present appearances the binder rarely does so . If it fail to do its day is not far distant when the binder I

WORKING THE BINDER .

will be as common a machine on the

83

for cutting all average crops, there need

average farm aswas the mower or reaper be little extra hurry or pressof work at about 1880. With a light and serviceable binder, which could be depended on

harvest more than at any other time of

the year, while the whole might be ac

y

***** Fig. 519.-- Hornshy binder at work.

complished without an extra hand being and one with an ordinary manual or self delivery machine .

engaged.

Two swathes are ne

cessary, not entirely on account of the

Working the Binler.

width of the machine, but to provide

Before beginning with a binder, a walking space for the three horses, often

couple of swathes should be cut with the required to work the binder. Where the circumstances permit, the easiest cut is round the field , but if the

crop is bent in any particular direction it must be cut one way only. Speed.—Cutting round about, an acre

an hour is easily accomplished, and if the horses travel freely an acre and a half may be done.

Hands required .--According to the weight and closeness of the crop, from

two to four men will be required to stook, if going round about, while only Fig . 520.- Howard's binder.

half the number will be required if cut ting is done one way only. Behind a

binder going round the field, a man can convenient, one swathe with a scythe stook more grain of an equal weight

scythe round the whole field , or if more

GRAIN HARVE

. ST

84

than he will do after any other method of cutting

dicate a saving of about is. 6d. or 28. per acre — the saving of course arising in

With goodstring, the knotting appar- manual labour. atus rarely gives trouble, and the whole machine is easily under the control of one

Saving in Crop . — Another point in favour of the binder is that it gathers up

the crop more cleanly than the reaper.

man ,

Raking. – Where the binder can work

It leaves fewer stray stalks of grain on

anything like satisfactorily, no raking is the ground, and thus saves both straw required, as very few straws are left.

and grain. The saving on this head alone

Size of Sheaves.- With a moderately has been variously estimated at from is. regular crop, the sheaves can be made

to 58. per acre. In average circumstances

from is. to 28. would perhaps be toler ably near the mark.

Examples of Cost. — Writing in 1886, Mr John Prout, Sawbridgeworth , Essex, states that in the harvest of the

previous year he cut 100 acres with the binder with hardly a mishap, his men being able to work the binder satisfac torily after the guidance of an expert

for one day. He gives the following Fig. 521. - Bisset's binder.

information as to cost : Binder.- " On an average 10 acres OOOOO

much smaller than where the crop has to per day were cut and bound at the fol be tied by hand, without adding mate- lowing cost : rially to the cost, the only increase being Six horses £ 1 10 Two men O 14 what extra will be required for binding Two boys twine , and the little additional labour o 7

required in stooking a crop of small or

String, 28. per acre

1

o

moderately sized sheaves instead of large

Oil

o

2

ones.

Total for 10 acres

The small number of hands required

£3 13

O

Per acre, 78. 3d.

in the harvest-field , where a binder is

Ordinary Reaper.— “ I calculate for an farm , allow of reaping and stacking going ordinary reaper, 12 acres per day :

in use, would thus, on a moderate-sized

Four horses

eties of crops were so regulated as to

Tying by hand , 6s. per acre

allow them to come forward in regular

Two men One boy

succession .

Oil

Cost of Cutting with Binder and Reaper. The exact cost of cutting a certain area of corn will of course, as already pointed

Total for 12 acres

‫ܘܘ‬

on simultaneously — that is, if the vari

£ 10 3 12 O 14

0

o

3

6

o

2

£5 II

6

Per acre, 9s. 3d.

out, vary considerably inaccordancewith Showing 28. per acre in favour of the the kind, condition, and weight of the binder. I have taken the string at 2s. crop, the configuration of the ground, the per acre, as my crops aregenerally heavy, rate of wages and skill in management. hence also the charge of 6s. per acre for Saving in Labour. — It is now gene- tying.” l rally conceded that where circumstances An Oxford Example. — Mr A. Par

the fields moderately sons - Guy, Begbroke Hill, Kidlington , large and level,and the area under grain Oxford, gives the following statement of crops sufficiently large to warrantthe the cost inharvesting withthe binder in are favourable

somewhat heavy initial outlay in purchas-

1885 :— “ We cut 244 acres, an average

ing a binder — the cutting can be accom- of 14 acres per day, working six horses, plished at from is. to 38. per acre cheaper with two men and two boys; 124 were by the self-binder than by the ordinary reaping-machine. Common estimates in

1 Agric. Gaz., 1886, 39.

STACKING CEREALS.

our farm , and 120 for neigh- to see to the proper working of the

bours.

Binder .— “ I append statement of 124 248 lb. of string at 7d. per lb.

.

OOONA out

acres cut on own farm :

£7

Six horses, nine days, at 38. per day

8

Two men , nine days, 6s. each

5

Two boys, nine days, Is. Shocking, 18. per acre Oil, repairs, sundries Depreciation on £ 60 at 10 per cent

o 18 6

.

Total for 124 acres

O

OOOOOOO

cut on

85

Shocking.— “ One shilling per acre was paid, but I find that plenty would be glad to do it for gd. another season. My arrangement was that it should be left

o tidy-- any loose sheaf tied, and any loose o

grain picked up." Depreciation .- “ Depreciation I cannot put at more than 10 per cent , as after

8

make £40 off mymachine at the present time [second year ], but I do not see its value lessened more than £ 5.” 1

I

6

£35

machine.”

our own we cut 120 acres, and I could 1

Per acre (say) 58. så. Ordinary Reaper.- " The following is Management and Work . - Mr Parsons what I should have had to pay [with the Guy states that neither of the two men ordinary reaper ] Cutting by hand 124 acres

£74

8

o

first put to manage his binder had ever seen one before, and they found no diffi

culty in working it. It made splendid

Per acre, 12s.

work , and as to the certainty of tying he “ I do not think through the

Saving by Binder.— “ On the other adds hand I have saved : Balance in favour of binder on 124 acres

£39 6 4

whole of the harvest we had half-a -dozen sheaves leave the machine untied from the fault of the binder.”

String from 124 acres for sack tying, &c.

Ι

Ο

Ο

12

8

0

STACKING CEREALS.

Corn saved by using binder,28. per acre

Total on 124 acres

£ 52 14 4

Per acre, 8s. 6d . ”

It isnecessary that reaped corn remain some time in the shock or stook in the

field before it will keep in the large quantity composing a stack or in a

Explanations. — Mr Parsons-Guy gives barn. the following explanations of some of the above items :

Time for Drying.

The length of

time required for drying depends largely

String.— “ We soon found we could get on the weather, but partly also on the

string at 7d. per lb., which did equally as ripeness of the corn when reaped. If the well as the more expensive string sent air is dry, sharp, and windy, the corn out with the machine, and being much

lighter, 2 lb. would readily tie an acre.” Horses.— “ We worked from seven in

will be ready in the shortest, while in close, misty, damp air, it will require the longest time. As an extreme, one

the morning till as long as we could see, week for wheat, and 10 days forbarley say eight o'clock , making a day of thirteen and oats, will usually be sufficient. hours,as we made no stoppage for meals, Small sheaves of course dry more quickly one man shutting his horses off and the than large sheaves. Corn having an

other putting his on immediately, putting admixture of grass in the ends of the in a fresh knife and well oiling before sheaves is the most difficult to dry. In starting ; thus a horse only had six and reaping with the machine the corn is a half hours per day, and I think 38. is a more closely packed in the sheaf than fair allowance for that time. We did not when reaped with the scythe, and thus find the binder require more horse-power in the former case a day or two's longer

than the ordinary self - raking reaper. drying may be required. Two strong horses would work it comfort-

Judging of Dryness.—Mere dryness

ably, but I generally put on three, for I of straw in feeling does not constitute found the front horse, which was ridden

by a boy, kept the others along, and also assisted in guiding the machine, which left the man in charge most of his time

every requisite for making newly cut corn keep in the stack . The natural sap 1

Agric. Gaz., 1886, 59.

GRAIN HARVEST.

86

of the plant must not only be evaporated “ hooack ” may contain from 6 to 8 or from the outside, but from the inside also. more stooks, according to the size of the The outside may feel quite dry, whilst stooks and length of the crop.

the interior may be moist with sap. The The centre of the “ rickle " is com state of the internal condition , therefore, posed of 4 or 6 sheaves, all set up constitutes the whole difficulty of judg- together, with the bottoms slightly out ing whether or not corn will keep in the and the heads close together. Around stack .

these are built another circle, the butts Several criteria exist by which cer- of which also resting on the ground, the

tainty is arrived at — namely, by the next row being kept far enough up to straws being loose in the sheaf ; by just cover the straps or bands of the

easily yielding to the pressure of the fingers ; by the entire sheaf feeling light when lifted off the ground, and dry when the hand is thrust in beyond the band ;

sheaves of the preceding one . The sheaves of each row are, as far as pos sible, laid on over the space between the two sheaves under it, as in slating, and

or by twisting a straw, and observing if the butt-end slightly spread. All sheaves any sap remains in it.

are built in the “ rickle ” with the side

In winning, the sap of the straw of downward which was outside in the the cereals is, no doubt, converted into stook ; and as there is always more or woody fibre, as that of the grasses is on less of a slope on the butt-end of each being converted into hay.

sheaf, placing them in this manner rickle,” and effectual when the weather is dry. Wind throws the water much better off. The is also winning, but the stooks are apt to sheaves in the “ rickle ” are kept lying

Weather and Drying.- Winning is makes a much neater

be blown down, and incur the trouble of setting them again, which cannot be so well done as at first. Rain immediately following or accompanying wind injures stooks materially: When much rain falls, accompanied with cold, the corn becomes sooner ready than the straw for the stack ; and, to win the straw, the bands may have to be loosened, and the sheaf spread out to dry in the wind and

at a pretty steep angle, the number in each course being considerably reduced, until at the height at which a man can just reach, it can be finished by two sheaves, which are tied together by a

In like manner, the sheaf may be

is put on too high up, or too slack, the

sun.

rope of straw passed round both.

This

band should be low enough to take hold of the tops of the course of sheaves under the topmost two, and should be drawn as tightly as possible. If the band

spread out in dry weather, when a large top sheaves are very easily blown off ; proportion of young grass is mixed with whereas if the whole has been properly the straw .

built, and afterwards secured by a rope,

Corn wins in no way so quickly as the crop is proof against a great amount when " gaitined ." See p . 76. Sprouting.When the air is calm ,

of very wet or stormy weather.

A common method of field -stacking is dull, damp, and warm , every species of as follows : The hands are divided into corn is apt to sprout in the stook before parties of four, and each party take it is ready for the stack.

In this way three rows of stooks.

One man lays

the quality of the grain is often much a foundation about 6 feet in diameter injured .

on the line of the middle row , and proceeds as in ordinary stacking. An

Process of Stacking.

other man forks the sheaves, and the

Temporary Stacking or “ Rickling.” remaining two drag in the corn from -Oats which have had rye-grass, clovers, the adjacent stooks. By grasping the or other grasses sown with them are tops of the sheaves eight sheaves can usually difficult to dry, and more par- be hauled in at one time. The small

ticularly in a damp climate or a late rick is gradually drawn to a narrow With such crops “ rickling," point, and the top sheaves are tied “ coling,” or “ hooacking ” is sometimes down with a couple of straw or coir

season .

resorted to before the crop is dry enough for stacking: A “ rickle," " cole,” or

ropes. Advantages of

66

Rickling.” — This

1

STACKING CEREALS.

87

manner of securing a crop allows of the angular piece of framework, as shown in butts of the sheaves being dried in a fig. 522. Two main bearers are fitted to way attained by no other system .

lie across the shelvements of the cart ;

Sheaves with grass in the butts very the foremost is slightly notched, and the speedily kill off the young grasses under hindmost rests against the backboard of them , particularly in wet weather. “ Rickling " allows of the crop being d placed in a new position, and damage to the grasses avoided, while at the same time almost securing the crop, and put ting it into such a position that it readily dries afterwards, and is never difficult to

g

get dry enough for carting to the stack. Preparing for Stacking.- While the

first-reaped corn is winning in the field, the stackyard should be put in order to receive the new crop by removing every

с

thing that ought not to be in it-such as old decayed straw , which should have been used in time for litter ; and weeds, j

such as strong burdocks, thick common

docks, tall nettles, rank grass, yellow weed ; which in too many instances are allowed to grow and shed their seeds, and accumulate to a shameful degree during summer . The larger classes of

implements are often accommodated in the stackyard for want of sheds to keep them in, and these must now be removed . Where stathels are used, they should be put in repair. Loose clean straw

Fig. 522. - Corn and hay cart tops or frame. ee 3 arched fore cross-rails.

a Foremost main bearer.

6 Hindmost main bearer. S/ Bolts through rail in front of cart. cc Pairs of slight side rails. g Bolt through rail on backboard of cart .

d 2 hind cross - rails.

should be built in a small stack on one

of the stathels, or other place, to be

the cart, the top sides of which being

ready to make the bottomings of stacks first taken off. One pairof slight side as wanted . Drawn straw or other thatch rails is applied on each side, crossing the material should be ready for thatching bearers, and notched upon and bolted to

the stacks of barley as they are built, in case of wet weather occurring-a little time being given for the stack to settle, else the ropes by which the thatch is held become loose, and require to be

them with screw-bolts, these being crossed by two rails behind, and by three more in front ; and as these last project over

the back of the horse, they are made in

tightened. d

Straw - ropes or coir yarn should be stored in the hay - house or elsewhere, ready to be used in thatching. The tops or frames should be put on the tilt -carts : the corn - carts should be put on their

wheels and the axles greased ; and the

a

j

Fig. 523. - Transi'erse section of the tops or frame. a b Notches in foremost main bearer. cdc Arched rails over

back of horse.

ff Bolt · holes in frame .

ropes should be attached to the carts.

The forks for pitching the corn in the arch form , fig. 523, to give freedom to the field, and from the carts to the stacks, should be ready for use . Neglect and

animal.

The extreme length, from outside to

want of foresight in these particulars, outside of the front and back rails , is small as they may appear, indicate mis- usually about 10/2 feet, and the breadth management on the part of the farmer. in the same manner is about 774 feet, af Cart Frames. — The tops or frames for

fording a superficial area for the support

placing upon tilt -carts are a light rect- of the sheaves of corn of 76 square feet.

GRAIN HARVEST.

88

A simple and effective method of secur- so that it is made of light strong wood. ing the frame to the cart is by means of The shafts are usually about 17 feet the bolts in the bearers, the front ones in length, of which 67/2 feet go for the passing through the head -rail of the front horse-yoke and 1072 feet for the body, of the cart,and the hind one through the measuring over the cross-heads. These top-rail of the tail-board.

are secured to the shafts by iron standards

Harvest Cart. — But the common corn or hay cart is a more convenient and efficient vehicle for carrying the corn crops into the stackyard than the tiltcart with the frame, inasmuch as the load is more on a level with the horse-

passing through them and the shafts. Their sides are supported by oak stand ards; and these in their turn, along with the iron standards, support the inner top rails, 12 feet in length , and the broad load -tree. The outer rails, also 12 feet

draught, and the body being dormant, long, are supported by iron standards the load is not liable to shake with the resting on the extremities of the cross motion of the horse. Fig. 524 gives a heads, and also by those of the broad

perspective view of such a cart. Light- load-tree. The extreme breadth of the ness is a special object in its construction, outer rails is 7 feet, and as the outer

6

a

Fig. 524. - Common corn and hay cart. a a Shafts of Baltic fir . bb Cross -heads.

cc Oak standards.

dd, d d Inner top-rails .

e Broad load -tree.

I S,ff Outer rails, front and rear.

rails support the sheaves of corn over the should then have the standards based

wheels, and are 12 feet in length, the upon two longitudinal rails, instead of superficial area of the cart for the load being mortised into the shafts. In such

it is eminently useful in carrying is 84 square feet, which is greater than a form large timber.

that of the top -frame of the tilt-cart.

The two front cross - rails over the horse's

Improved Harvest Cart. - An im

rump are arched , to give him freedom . proved form of harvest cart is shown The body is usually close -floored, besides in fig. 468, p . 23, with hay and straw having a low ledge -board running inside ladders at both ends. Farm Waggon . — The English farm the standards to keep in the corn that may have shaken out of the sheaves. Corn -carts are not in all cases furnished

waggon is also used in carting corn , but is not so expeditious as the cart except

with wheels of their own. The body may be set upon those belonging to the tiltcarts. The broad load -tree, 9 inches broad, is convenient to sit upon in driving, and to stand upon when forking the sheaves

where the distance from the field to the stackyard is considerable. The im proved waggon made by Crosskill & Sons, Beverley, is shown in fig. 525. Harvest Forks. - Forks used in the

in unloading. The cart weighs about 8 loading of corn require to have long shafts , not less than 6 feet, and small It is easily converted into a dray-cart prongs. Such a length of shaft is re

cwt.

by simply removing the framework, which quired to lift the sheaf from the ground

STACKING CEREALS.

89

to the top of a loaded cart, or from the renders the pitching of a sheaf a diffi cart to the top of a stack . The fork used cult matter ; and if one of the prongs in the field should have a strong stiff happen to be bent, or a little turned shaft, as the load on the cart isat no up at the point, the difficulty is much

great elevation. That for unloading the increased. cart to the stack should be slender and

The prongs of the forks are now made

elastic, as many of the sheaves have to be of steel, and are therefore much lighter, thrown a considerable height above the more durable, and far superior in every head.

way to the old -fashioned iron fork .

The prongs, being small (about half the length of the prongs of the hay-fork ), just retain hold of the sheaf, without being so deeply pierced into the band as to be withdrawn from it with difficulty. A deep and firm hold with long prongs

top of the stack to use, in assisting the builder, is the short stable-fork. Cart- ropes. — The loads of corn and hay on the carts are fastened with ropes, which should be made of the best hemp,

The best fork for the person on the

HARE

Fig. 525. - Farm waggon .

soft and pliable. Ropes are either single or double, and both are required on the farm . Double cart-ropes are from 20 to 24 yards long, and single ones half those

upper cross-heads, and brought over them to the outside. Each division is coiled up by holding the rope in the left hand at about twoyards from the cart, and bend lengths. ing the remainder in coils with the right The single ones are used on ordinary hand until the end of the rope is gained, occasions, when a small load of straw or when the coil is made to take a turn other bulky article is carted to short dis- along the loose part of the rope in its tances on the farm ; but in harvest and middle, and then the loose part still re hay time double ropes are always used maining is slipped through one loop of for security to the load . The double rope the coil and passed over it so as to make is made fast to the hind part of the corn- a loop -knot, which holds the coil sus

cart by first doubling it, and then mea- pended from the cart about 3 feet from suring its middle from the centre of the the ground . cross-head to its extremity on both sides, Fig. 526 shows the rope coiled and sus

where one turn or two are taken round pended when not in use. When a ring the iron standards and the cross -head by is fastened in the cross-head of the cart,

each division of the rope, the ends of the middle of the rope is passed through which are then passed in the inside of the the ring, and a turn taken round the ex

GRAIN HARVEST.

90

tremity of the cross-head on each side of the cart, as above.

Straw -ropes are made by means of the implement named the throw -crook. Va

Care of Ropes.— Cart-ropes last ac

rious forms of this instru

cording to the care bestowed on them . When used with the corn - cart, they

ment are in use, and one

should never be allowed to touch the

which is made of a piece of tough ash, about 372 feet long, the round part

of the simplest is fig. 527,

ground, as earthy matter, of whatever kind, soon causes them to rot. When wetted by rain they should be hung out

of which is thinned off un

til it is capable of being bent to a curve, and is there retained by an iron stay, part being left projecting beyond the stay for the attachment of the end of the rope to be made. The straight end is furnished

6 Fig. 526. - Coiled -up cart- rope.

with a ferule and swivel с

ring, by which it is either

attached to the person by Fig. 527.-- OU

a cord passed round the waist, or held in the hand.

throw.crook .

a Iron stay. b Projection for

In using this implement

end ofroped therope-maker is station

c Ferule

swivel ring. cb Line of direc

ary , usually sitting beside tion ofrope. the straw ; and the spinner with the throw - crook moves

backwards as the rope extends. In its action this form of throw -crook is attended

in the air to dry. On being loosened with a jerking motion, when the left hand when the load of corn is to be delivered holds the swivel, and the right one revolves the instrument round the shank. The twist

to the stacker, they should be coiled up before the load is disposed of, and not allowed to lie on the ground till the cart is unloaded .

A soft rope holds more firmly, is more easily handled , and far less apt to crack , than a hard one.

(1

given to the rope is effected by the re volution of the imple ment round the line of

direction, in generat

Stack -ropes. For tying down thatch or holding firm the tops of stacks, straw

ing which a jerk is given to the rope at

ropes, once universally used, are now

two opposite points in

being supplanted by coir-ropes or yarn . This latter material is cheap, durable,

the circle of revolu

and convenient to use. If well cared for, с

it should last three or more years ; and

many farmers contend that, especially on large farms, or where straw and labour are both scarce and dear, the coir-rope is cheaper than the straw -ropes. Straw - rope making. Nevertheless,

tion, which may be greatly neutralised by the spinner causing

Fig. 528.crook - Best throw both hands to revolve . a Hook , and

in opposite circles.

aed Curved spindle of

A better form of throw -crook is fig. 528 , drical handie of where the strain of the iron.

b Perforated cylin wood .

straw -ropes are still largely employed, and where they can be madewithout any appreciable addition to the labour bill,

straw - rope is in a e bd Curved part straight line from the of iron spindle . c Swivel-ring.

hook ,along thespindle

they will likely continue to be used. It to the handle. The left hand holds a will thus be useful to repeat here the in- swivel-ring, and the right hand causes formation in former editions of this work the curved part to revolve by means of a as to the making of straw -ropes. perforated cylindrical handle of wood ;

STACKING CEREALS.

91

the rest of the instrument being made of unequally, it breaks at the small part ; iron .

when twisted too much, it snapsasunder ;

An improved form of spinner consists when not twisted enough, it comes asun of a simple contrivance by which one der at any place by the least pull ; and person is enabled to spin two or three when the twister does not keep the rope ropes at one time. The contrivance straight as fast as it is let out, it twists hangs from the shoulders of the spinner, into loops, which are not easily made who, by turning one handle, gives motion straight again . All loose straws and

to twoor three spindles, to each of which other materials should be swept away a rope is attached, the spinner moving from the walk in whichstraw -ropes are backwards as the ropes increase in length. made, otherwise they will be picked up A stationary spinner at one time much and appropriated by the twisting rope. used has lost favour.

In some parts the man works the straw

The once common method of twisting into form with both hands while stoop straw -ropes by a throw -crook is shown ing, and his back turned to the twister ; in fig. 529. The left hand of the twister, but the rope thus made is thick and rough compared to the mode described above. Thistles negligently left in the straw the spinner should throw out, or he will suffer severely by their stings. Straw for Ropes.—The best sort of

straw for making into ropes is that of the common or Angus oat, which, being soft and pliable, makes a firm , smooth, small, tough rope.

The ordinary length of a straw -rope for a large stack is about 30 feet. Count

ing every interruption, a straw - rope of this length may take five minutes in the

making — that is, 120 ropes in ten hours. Winding Straw - ropes. After the rope has been let out to the desired length, the man winds it firmly in

oblique strands on his left hand and Fig. 529.-Making a straw -rope with a throw -crook .

arm

into

an

oval ball, the

a field -worker, holds by the swivel-ring, twister advanc fig. 528. Her right hand grasps the ing towards him hollow cylinder of wood. A man, sit- as fast as he

ting on a stool or a bundle of straw ,

coils the rope,

places a little drawn straw in the hook, which is finish and the twister causes the hook to re-

ed

volve round an axis, while walking backwards along a path swept clean, in a shed or the stable. The man, nearly closing the left hand, lets out the straw gradually

firm bypassing the end of it below one of the strands.

between the thumb and the fingers, re-

Fig. 530 rep

and

made

taining it till sufficiently twisted, while resents astraw

the right hand is engaged supplying rope this coiledformup

small portions of straw in equal and in . Fig. 530. - Coil of straw -rope. sufficient quantities to make the rope With the ends uniform in thickness throughout and smaller than the middle, the rope can be

strong enough, the twister drawing away easily taken hold of and carried ; and in the rope as fast as the spinner lets it the oval form instead of the spherical the coil can be more easily thrown upwards Still many prefer fully done — for where the rope is let out large circular coils, except for use in out.

This work has to be skilfully and care- to the top of a stack.

GRAIN HARVEST.

92

forming a network of ropes over a stack, binds the straw into a bunch as firmly, for which small oval bundles are most and in the same manner, as a bandster convenient. Straw-ropes should be spun does a sheaf of corn. A bunch of of such lengths as are suitable to the size straw is represented in fig. 531. Thatch - making Machine. of the tops of the stacks.

drawn

The

Thatching.— The material to be used genius of the inventor has now come in thatching the stacks must also be in to the aid of the farmer in the making a state of readiness before the crop is brought into the stackyard. Material for Thatch . - The material

most largely used in thatching stacks is straw , which has been previously drawn parallel by the hand and tied into The roughest and rankest straw is generally used for thatch. In

sheaves.

Fig. 531.-Bunch of drawn straw .

some cases rushes or other coarse herb

of thatch, as in most other of his opera age is employed instead of straw . Drawn Straw . - A common method tions. In fig. 532 is found a representa

of drawing straw for thatch is as fol- tion of a thatch -making machine which lows : In commencing to draw straw in is now used with excellent results. It is the straw -barn, the man takes a wisp made by Messrs Barnard & Lake, Brain from the mow , arrd, placing it across his tree, Essex, and won the prize of £25

body, takes hold of each end of the wisp, offered by the Royal Agricultural Society and spreading out his arms, separates of England in 1886 for the best thatch the wisp into two portions. Holding making machine. The drawn straw is fed the ends of both portions in one hand, into the machine by hand, and the form he takes hold of the other ends with the of the thatch when completed is well

other hand, and spreading out his arms, shown in the figure. It is found that draws the straws parallel and straight; this machine economises straw , and saves and he does this until he finds the time in thatching. straws parallel and straight, when he

This machine is also employed

in

lays down the drawn wisp carefully making straw matting to protect pits or upon the floor of the barn.

clamps of roots, as well as race-courses The state of the straw , and the kind, from frost. It likewise produces excel render the drawing more or less easy and lent material for providing shelter in

expeditious. When straw is much broken

in thrashing, it requires the more drawing to make it straight ; and of all the kinds wheat-straw, being long and strong, is most easily and quickly drawn, barleystraw being shortest and most difficult to draw .

sheepfolds. Forking. — The carts, forks, straw , and

ropes being in readiness at the steading, and the corn fit for carrying to the stack yard, the first thing is to provide an efficient person to fork the corn in the

Oat -straw is the most pleasant of field to the carts.

any to draw.

After as much has been drawn and

That man is the best

for this work who is able to wield the

sheaves from each stook with ease , and

laid down as to make a bunch of about has dexterity to place them in posi 15 inches in diameter, the man makes a tions most convenient for the carter to thumb-rope by twisting a little of un- build them on the cart. Throwing the drawn straw round the thumb of his

sheaves in an indiscriminate manner, or

right hand, drawing it out with his left too quickly upon the cart, makes the and twisting it with his right alternately, until a short coil is made, one end of which he places on the floor by the side of the drawn straw, and puts his foot

work less easy for the carter ; for he has the trouble of turning the sheaves to arrange them aright, while his footing upon the load is insecure. A delay of

upon it; and, keeping hold of the other two or three minutes thus occasioned in end in his left hand, puts the drawn loading each cart makes a considerable straw into the rope with his right; and loss of time upon the day's work. then , holding both ends of the rope,

Injury to Young Grass. — In carry

STACKING CEREALS.

93

ing the crop off the ground, care should sufficiently near to the furrow.

If the

be taken to do as little injury as possible loads are light and the track frequently to the land with the cart-wheels, particu- changed, little damage will be done. 1

larly to young grass.

To avoid this, and

Order in Forking Sheaves. - In fork

give an unerring guide, the horses should ing a hooded stook from the ground, the walk in the open furrow between the

hood -sheaves are first taken, then the

ridges, while the wheels pass along their sheaves from the body of the stook, from furrow -brows. But this, of course,can be one end, sheaf by sheaf, in pairs, to the done only when the stooks are in rows other end. More loss of time is involved

0 Hoe

Fig. 532.- Thatch -making machine.

When stooks have stood long upon the in disregarding this order of removal of the sheaves than might appear, for if the ground, they may require considerable centre sheaves are first taken away, more force is required to do it, and the end ones will likely fall down ; and if one side of a stook is taken away before the other, the other side will fall. In any

force to remove them . 66

Gaitins.” — On removing gaitins from the field, they must first Carting

be bound into sheaves, which is done by loosening the slack band from its tying

way but the first, the sheaves will be and slipping it down the body of the gaitin to the proper place, and binding it caught by the fork inconveniently.

GRAIN HARVEST.

94

in the manner of a sheaf when reaped. where the roads are good and the land They are not stooked when bound, nor

left scattered on the ridges as they stood

level.

Hours of Carting.--Carrying often is

before, but laid in heaps on alternate continued from break of day to twilight. ridges with the corn-ends away from the From a little after sunrise to a little after cart, as near the furrow -brow as most con- sunset, corn may be taken in with safety. venient for the forker and the carter. A Morning and evening dew may occasion

number of hands are required to bind ally interrupt the carrying. gaitins as fast as they are carted off.

It is customary in some parts of the

country to keep the horses in the yoke with sheaves in this way : The body is first all day, and to feed them with corn in filled with sheaves, their butt-ends to the nose-bags while the carter is dining, as shaft -horse, and to the back - end of the also to give them green food — tares— Loading a Cart . - A corn -cart is loaded

cart.

When these come to the level of

the frame, other sheaves are placed across

while the cart is unloading at the stack. In other parts the horses are taken out of

them in a row along both sides and both the yoke, watered, and put into the stable, ends of the frame, with the butt - ends where they receive their corn while the projecting as far beyond the outer rail as men are at dinner. This latter is the the band , the sheaf at each corner of the best plan for the horses, in which they frame being held in its place by trans- will work the longest day's work with less

fixion upon a spike of the elongated bolt fatigue ; yet it usually occupies one hour of the best part of the day before they frame. Another row of sheaves is placed are again on the road, whereas a half upon these. Sheaves are then placed hour, in the other case, is sufficient for along the middle of the cart with the the men to dine, and the horses to feed butt-ends like those in the body upon the on coin . Feeding Horses in the Field . — Some corn -ends of the side sheaves to fill up which secures the corner of the outer-rail

the hollow of the load .

horses are apt to take fright when the bridles are slipped off their head while in their yoke, to allow them to eat the tares with freedom . Such a mishap is

Thus row after row of sheaves is placed , and the hollow in the middle filled well up at last, 12 full stooks making a good load upon an ordinary cart . Before finishing, it should be seen that the load is neither too light nor too heavy

To avoid it in any case, the bit should be fastened with a small strap and buckle

upon the horse's back .

to the near side of the bridle, and it

doubtless the effect of bad breaking-in.

A load thus built will have all the will slip out easily when the strap is butt-ends of the sheaves on the outside,

unbuckled.

and the corn -ends in the inside.

A load of tares is brought to the stead Roping Loaded Carts. — The ropes ing fresh in the morning for the horses

keep the load from jolting off the cart employed at leading. Tares are not suit upon the field and the road. They are able for horses until the pods are pretty thrown across the load diagonally from well filled with grain, as prior to that the hind part of the cart to the opposite state they are apt to purge and weaken

1

shaft at the front, and one end is made

them .

I

fast to each shaft, the forker holding on the slack, while the carter on the load

While the first cart has gone to the

tightens the rope by pulling from behind, and trampling on the sheaves to make them firm . The crossing of the ropes at the centre prevents the load

field , the builder of the stacks, or stacker, collects his forks, ladders, and trimmer; and his assistant, who pitches the sheaves conveniently for him on the

1

1

Commencing

Stack - building.

splitting asunder over each side of the stack, fetches a few straw-ropes and a hand-rake into the stackyard.

cart.

Some carters wish to show their dex-

The first stacks are built on the

terity in building loads of corn by bringing them to the stackyard without the assistance of ropes. This practice, however, is not to be commended, except

stathels, which are arranged along the fence of the stackyard, and which re quire no preparation for the reception of the stacks.

|

STACKING CEREALS.

95

When more than one stacker is re- ference of the stool to make a circle, hav quired, each should have one head of ing a diameter twice the radius notched carts leading to him ; and the number upon the shaft of the fork ( fig. 533). In of carts in one head depends on the Process of Stack - building. distance the corn has to be brought. setting a loaded cart to a stack , the -

There cannot be fewer than two carts

to one head, to come and go.

The same

k

forker and carts should serve the same

stacker, because the same workers to gether understand each other better in their work .

Arranging a Stackyard.—In filling

a stackyard,the barley being the first crop threshed - being the first in demand in the market — their stacks should be

placed nearest the barn ; and wheat being last threshed, their stacks are placed upon the stathels. Oats being required at all seasons, their stacks maybe placed anywhere. Stacks of peas and beans fill up the

heart of the stackyard when there is room , or are placed on the outside. Foundation for Stacks. — When stacks

e

are built upon the ground, stools of loose straw are made, to prevent the sheaves

at the bottom receiving injury from the dampness of the ground. A stool for a Fig. 534. — Building a stack of corn .

stack is made in this manner : Stick a

fork in the ground, on the spot where the centre of the stack is desired to stand.

Put a quantity of dry straw round the

e Loaded cart of corn

alongside a stack .

f g Sheaves of corn with their butt -ends out wards.

fork, shake it up with a fork, and spread it equally thick over the area the stack

m Carter forking up a

Then take a long fork ,

the sheaf with a fork .

shall occupy.

with the radius of the stack notched

sheaf.

k Field-worker receiving

h Stacker kneeling on the outside row of sheaves.

i Sheaves of the inside row.

1 Sheaf placed most con veniently by the field worker for the stack er.

pon

its shaft, 772 feet ; embrace the shaft of carter should take advantage of the wind in forking the sheaves from the cart.

The stack should be built in this

way : Set up a couple of sheaves leaning on each other in the centre of the stathel,

and another couple against their sides. Place other sheaves against these in rows round the centre, with a slope towards the circumference of the stathel, each row being placed half the length of the

sheaf beyond the inner one, till the cir cumference is completed, when it should be examined ; and where any sheaf Fig. 533.- Making a stool for a corn -stack . a Fork stuck into the ground . h Fork 772 feet long.

d Man making the circle

of stool with his

presses too hard upon another, it should be relieved, and where a slackness is

feet . e c d Circle of stool15 feet found, a sheaf should be introduced.

Keeping the circumference of the stack on the left hand, the stacker lays the the upright fork between its prongs, and sheaves upon the outside row round the push in and pull out with a foot the stack, placing each sheaf with his hands in diameter.

straw , so as in walking round the circum- upon the hollow or intermediate space

96

GRAIN HARVEST.

between two of the sheaves laid in the

the sheaf is balanced, and when it may

preceding row, close to the last one, and easily be thrown with its butt-end to the pressing it with both his knees, fig. 534. right hand of the stacker. When the outside row is thus laid, an For regularity of work, the carter inside row is made with sheaves whose should pitch the sheaves just as fast butt - ends rest on the bands of the out- as the builder can place them , and side row , thereby securing the outside no faster, having only one sheaf in re sheaves in their places, and at the same serve on the stack in advance of the

time filling up the body of the stack builder — any more can be of no service firmly with sheaves. A few more sheaves to him, and may be a hindrance. may be required as an inmost row, to

It is necessary for the field -worker to

raise the heart of the stack at its highest use the fork equally with the right hand and the left, otherwise she will be obliged part. It is of immense benefit to a stack to

to swing the sheaves across herself for

have its centre hardened with sheaves, half the round of the building of the

as it is the heart sheaves which retain stack, thereby incurring much unneces the outside ones in their places in the sary fatigue. The field -worker remains circle, with an inclination from the centre to the circumference; and it is this incline of the outside sheaves that prevents the rain passing along the straw into the heart of the stack , and where it would soon spoil the corn.

on the stack as long as she has a footing, to hand the topmost sheaves to the builder. By another plan which many prefer, the second forker becomes unnecessary.

When a stack gets near completion,

and the cart at the stack nearly empty, of sheaves required to fill the body of a another stack is begun until a cart ar stack depen on the length of the straw rives with a full load, when from the Size of Stack . — The number of rows

and the diameter of the stack . For crops top of it one forker is easily able to of ordinary length of straw , such as from send up sheaves for the completion of 472 to 5 feet, a stack of 15 feet diameter the former stack . is well adapted ; and in which one in-

Trimming Stacks.-- As each cart is

side row, along the bands of the outside unloaded, the stacker descends to the one, with a few sheaves crossing one ground by means of a ladder, and trims another in the centre, make such a stack

the stack by pushing in with a fork the

sufficiently hearted . Where long wheat end of any sheaf that projects further grows, from 5 to 6 feet, the stack should

than the rest, and by pull ing out any that may have been placed too far in. As

be 18 feet in diameter, to give room to a few sheaves for the hearting. A stack of 15 feet in breadth is rather too much for the carter to fork heavy sheaves across to the stacker, when the stack

the stack rises above the stacker he cannot trim it with a fork . He uses a

has attained the height of his head, and

trimmer,

when the load in the cart becomes as low as the load -tree. Second Forker.-- The stacker should

quarter - inch

consisting

of

receive the sheaves within easy reach, as

broad, nailed firmly to a

he cannot reach far on his knees to

long shaft, fig. 535, with

thick flat

board about 20 inches in

length

and

IO

inches

take them without loss of time, and risk

which he beats in the

of making bad work. To facilitate the building, a field -worker may be employed

projecting ends of sheaves, giving the body of the stack a uniform round

to receive the sheaves on a short fork

An improved trim mer has its edges formed the stacker in the position he wants them, to save him the trouble of turn into thick strong teeth .

from the carter, and to throw them to

Fig. 535.–Stack. ness . trimmer.

Form of Stack. – Many stackers ing them . By a little dexterity, the field - worker might catch every sheaf make the stack swell out as it proceeds as the carter pitches it from his fork in height, but this is not necessary for upon his or her fork at the band, where throwing off the drops of rain from the

STACKING CEREALS.

97

eave, as the eave itself, on the stack to thatch and cover up the wet ends of subsiding after being built a few days, sheaves.

The materials for thatching

or the thatching, projects sufficiently to should all be at hand before commencing throw off the drops. The body of the — drawn bunches of straw, coils of straw stack should be carried up perpendicu- ropes or coir-yarn, ladders, forks, hand larly. rakes, and graips. To get on with the Height of Stack . — As a stack of 15 business quickly, one man and two assist feet in diameter should ultimately stand ants are required for each stack — the 12 feet high in the body to maintain a most thrifty assistants being field -work due proportion, an allowance of about ers, to supply the thatcher with straw

one foot for subsidence, before making and ropes, and tie the ends of the ropes. Method . — The thatching of a stack is measured with the ladder, and allow- with drawn straw is done in this manner

the top, is generally given. The height

ing two feet for the heightof the stathel, —the lozenge-shaped being the most com mon : On the thatcher ascending to the height of the body before the top is top of the stack by means of a ladder, built up. Fig. 536 is a stack built upon which is immediately taken away by an

a 15-feet ladder will just give the desired a stathel.

assistant, one bundle or two of drawn

Eave. — The eave of a stack is formed straw are forked up to him by the according to the mode in which it is to other assistant, and kept beside him be be thatched . If the ropes be placed hind a graip stuck into the top of the lozenge-shaped, the eave-row of sheaves is stack . The straw is first laid and spread

placed just within the topmost row of the body. If the ropes are to run from the crown of the stack to the eave, the eave aves project two or three inches

upon the eave, beyond which it projects a few inches, and then handful after

handful is laid in an overlapping manner to the top. Where a butt-end of a sheaf beyond the topmost row of sheaves. projects, it should be beaten in ; and Topping Stacks. — In building the where a hollow occurs, a sheaf should be top of a stack, every successive row of drawn out a little, or the hollow should

sheaves is taken as much in as to give

be filled up with additional straw . In

the slope the same angle as a common this manner the straw is evenly laid all roof - one foot below the square. The round the top of the stack, to the spot

bevelled bottom of the sheaves, acquired where the thatcherbegan. by standing in the stook, answers the Forming the Apex . - After putting slope of the top pretty nearly. The the covering on the top of the stack, fig. hearting of the top of a stack should 536 , he makes up the apex with a small be particularly attended to, as on rain bundle of well-drawn long straw , tied

obtaining admission at the top it can- firmly near one end with a piece of cord, not be prevented descending to the and the tied end is cut square with a heart. After the area of the top has knife; the loose end being spread upon contracted to a space on which 4 sheaves only can stand upright, they are placed with their butt-ends spread a little out, and the tops pressed together, so as to complete the apex of a cone. The top sheaves are held in their position against

the covering, and giving the finish to the thatching. To secure the apex in its place, a straw -rope is thrown down by the thatcher, the end of which his assist ant on the ground fastens to the side of the stack. After passing the rope round

the wind by means of a straw -rope wound the apex, he throws it down in the same direction, where it is also fastened to the

round them and fastened to the stack.

stack.

Process of Thatching. Seldom is leisure found to thatch stacks

as long as there is corn to carry in . The finer the weather less the leisure.

In like manner he throws down

a rope round the opposite side of the A

apex, and their ends are also fastened by the assistant.

Roping Stacks. - Having thus secured

damp day, however, which prevents carry- the ornamental top, the thatcher comes ing, answers well for thatching, as thatch- down the thatching, closing up the cover straw is none the worse of being a little

ing in the descent of his track, and de

damp; but in heavy rain it is improper scending by the ladder placed to let bim VOL . III .

G

T GRAIN HARVES .

98

down.

Taking a longer ladder, he in- ant, who takes hold of its end, while he

clines its upper part nearly parallel to the retains the rope in his hands, and places covering of the stack, and secures its its double parallel with the rope round lower end from slipping by a graip thrust the apex, and the assistant pullsit tightly against it into the ground .

He then down, and makes it fast to the stack , or

stands upon the ladder at a requisite perhaps to a brick or other weight. The reason why the thatcher coils up height above the eave, where he receives the second half of the rope before it is

(

thrown down is, that a loose straw -rope cannot be thrown down within reach of

the assistant. Thus the thatcher puts on every rope parallel to each other till the last one is near the eave.

The ropes have a tighter fit after re ceiving a tap here and there with the

እh

fork from the thatcher, whilst the assist antis pulling the last end tight. He then takes the ladder to the oppo site side of the stack , and puts on each rope on that side, as he had done on the other side.

Lozenge Roping . – Ropes thus placed parallel from opposite sides of the stack ,

crossing each other, make the lozenge shape in fig. 536. Number of Ropes.—On a stack 15 feet in diameter at the base, 16 feet di ameter at the eave, 12 feet high in the

body, and 672 feet high in the top, 10 ropes on each side will secure the thatch . Fig. 536.- Lozenge mode of roping the covering of a corn -stack. ornamental h Last rope on that side

a Apex or top.

ef First rope for securing the apex in its position .

of the stack .

i Last rope on the opposite side of the stack. 1 Eave of thatch .

ſ 9 Second rope forfarther lk Eave-rope. securing the apex in its position .

cd Diameter of the stack, 15 feet.

Tying Ropes. — The ends of the ropes are fastened to the stack by pulling out

a little straw from a sheaf,twisting the rope and straw together, and pushing through the twisted end between the rope and the stack . Windy gusty weather is unfavourable

for the thatching of stacks. a numberof coils of ropes from his assistAnother Method of Roping. – An ant, which he keeps before him between other method of roping the thatching of the steps of the ladder. a stack is fig. 537. The thatching of straw The thatch -straw is made smooth by is put on in the same manner as described being stroked down with a supple rod of above. The ropes cross over the crown willow , before the ropes are successively of the stack , and subdivide the top into put on. Holding on by the loosened equal triangles, their ends being fastened end of a coil of rope, he throws the coil to the side of the stack. The ropes, at from where he stands on the ladder down

their crossing over the crown , are fastened

to the right hand to his assistant, who, together bya straw -rope, which is tied holding it in the hand, allows the thatcher above them with cord, and cut off in the to coil it up again upon his hand without form of a rosette. The cross-ropes are ruffling the covering of the stack , till as either put on spirally round the top till much of it is left as to allow the assistant they terminate at the eave, or in separate to fasten it to the side of the stack, while bands, parallel to the eave. In either the thatcher adjusts its position parallel case the cross-ropes are twisted round

to the rope he had placed round the apex. each crown -rope, at equal intervals, from The thatcher then throws the other end the top to the eave. of the coil to the right hand to his assistThis mode of roping requires more

STACKING CEREALS.

99

ropes than the last, but it secures the is placed upon them, to serve as a cushion

thatch against any force of wind, and for the ropes to rest upon. Upon this is therefore well adapted for exposed the thatcher perches himself, where he situations.

receives the ropes as thrown up to him

Round Tops. - A third mode of roping on the prongs of a long fork. the covering of a stack is applicable to

Throwing Rope - coils.— Some dex

terity is required to throw a coil of straw -rope to, as well as to catch it on the point of a fork on, the top of a stack . To throw it up, stand as far from the

stack as to see the thatcher clearly, and, having a coil by the small end, pitch it upwards with a full swing of the arm, b

parallel to the covering of the stack, to wards the thatcher's feet, and he will catch it firmly on the prongs of the fork ; if aimed higher, or to either side, the fork will most likely miss it, the thatcher

not having the freedom of his body, Fig. 537. - Net-mesh mode of roping the covering of a corn -stack .

but only his arms. He thus receives a number of coils, and places them at his feet.

a Top or rosette.

a , a c, a d Form of triangles on the thatch . a to d is the spiral rope round the top, from the top to the eave.

gh are ropes round the top parallel to the eave

Uncoiling half of a rope by coiling it on his right hand , the thatcher throws the hand -coil over the eave to an as sistant, who holds on by that end while

where the eave is formed of sheaves pro- he throws the other coiled half down in

jecting beyond the body. It is shown in the opposite direction, across the top of fig. 538, and is common on the Borders. the stack, to the other assistant, who lays The first thing is to put a strong eave- hold of its end : then both assistants pull

rope round the stack, below the projecting the rope, the thatcher tapping it firmly row of sheaves. The covering straw is with the fork, and the ends are fastened on opposite sides of the stack . One assistant may suffice, by tying first one g

end of the rope, and then the other ; but is done with two assistants the ropinTh g us rope quicker and more firmly .

after rope is thrown , at equal intervals, to the number of thirty.

The ropes , crossing at the top, are tied together with a piece of straw -rope, to

prevent their slipping.

A ladder is

placed upon the thatching, down which the thatcher descends to the ground. Fig. 538.- Border mode of roping the covering of a corn -stack . c Crown of stack , upon which the thatcher

An English Custom . — A mode of

thatching stacks, common in England, is the insertion of handfuls of well

stands.

cb to ca Ropes passing over the crown of the stack.

drawn wheat-straw into the butts of

fed Ends of ropes fastened to the eave -rope.

the sheaves, which are kept down with stobs of willows, or sewed on with tarred twine, being an imitation of

a b Band of rope -ends round the stack . h, i k, i g Strap -ropes quartering the top of the stack.

then put on in a similar manner to that thatching cottages. No straw - ropes are described, but rather thicker, and it pro- used , and, finished by an experienced jects farther down than the line of the thatcher, it gives the stacks a neat and eave -rope.

The tops of the finishing

permanent appearance.

This method

sheaves of the stack are then pressed would not resist much wind, but its down, and a hard bundle of short straw smooth surface would detain the snow

GRAIN HARVEST.

100

a much less time than any of the rop- ing the top of the stack , and fastened to the eave - rope. ings described above. Thatching with machine-made thatch Cutting Thatch. is much more expeditious and more simple than any of the methods described above. Where rough grass grows on a farm, as Finishing Stacks.- Seldom is the on a bog which is partially dry in summer,

thatching of a stack finished when the it should be mown and sheafed, for thatch straw and ropes are put on ; the object ing stacks. One or two days given to of these being to place, in the shortest mowing such grass, after the harvest is time, stacks beyond danger of rain . Besides, stacks subside in bulk after covering. Stacks to be early threshed, as barley, seldom receive finishing ; and

over, are well spent, even at the rate of wages and food of ordinary harvest-work. Such vegetable materials save the draw ing of clean straw when it is scarce, and

many farmers only finish the outside form good covering for stacks soon to row of stacks. It is slovenly manage- be threshed ; and when it has served ment to leave stacks unfinished in the the purpose of thatch , it is suitable for thatching, as wind readily strips them littering courts. Bog-reeds, Arundophrag of their thatching .

mites, might be used in the same way

The finishing of the thatching in fig. where it does not find a profitable mar 536 is done in this manner: A rope is ket as thatch for cottages. Such materi spun long and strong enough to go round als add many tons to the manure-heap. the stack as an eave-rope. Wherever two Stack - heating. ropes from opposite directions cross the eave-rope, they are passed round it, and, Barley . - Of all kinds of corn, barley on being cut short with a knife, are is most liable to heat in the stack, partly fastened to the stack. After all the ends owing to the soft and moist character

of the crossed ropes are thus fastened to of the straw, and partly because clover is

the stack, the projecting part of the usually mixed with it. On this account thatch at the eave is cut of equal length it is advisable, in most seasons, to make with a knife round the stack. Of all the barley - stacks smaller than the others, modes of thatching, there is none more both in diameter and height, and to build efficient or better-looking than the loz- them upon bosses. Much care should be enge-shaped. bestowed on building barley - stacks to

The finishing of thatching, fig. 537, is heart them properly, which is the best as follows : An eave -rope is first put expedient to prevent heating. heat round the stack.

The crown -ropes are

Injury from Heating.-The least

passed at each end round the eave-rope, spoils barley for malting, and it should

and fastened to the stack. The project- be remembered that malting barley al ing straw at the eave is cut with a knife The difficult part of roping, fig. 538, is in finishing the eave, which, if well done, at equal length.

looks neat; if not, slovenly.

The eave

ways fetches the highest price in the market.

Besides injuring the grain, heat

ing compresses barley-straw very firmly, and soon rots it. Remedy.-When a stack is seen to

is finished in this way : The eave-rope heat, it should be instantly carried into having been put up at the thatching, the the barn and threshed , to cool both grain ends of the ropes are loosened from the and straw.

If this should be inconveni

stack, and passed between the eave-rope ent, the stack might be “ turned ”—that and the stack, and each successive end is

is, forked down and rebuilt, the hotter

so passed and carried horizontally along sheaves being kept to the exterior. its length ; and thus every rope all the Symptoms of Heating. — When a way round the stack at both ends is stack begins to lean to one side about

treated ; and in carrying the ends of the twenty -four hours after being built, or ropes round the eave, the band of ropes showsa depression in the top a little above should be of the same breadth round the

the eave, you may suspect heating to have

stack. From four to eight ropes, accord- proceeded to a serious degree. Incipient

ing to the exposure of the situation, are symptoms of heating are moisture on the strapped across the crown -ropes, quarter- top of a stack early in the morning - in

.

STACKING CEREALS.

IOI

dicated by cobwebs — before the sun evap- form of boss is a three -sided pyramid, orates it,as also when heated air is felt,

formed of three small trees, oflarch or

or steam seen to rise.

Scots fir, tied together at the small ends, Heated barley lubricates the threshing- and the thick ends placed at equal dis machine with a gummy matter. tances upon the stathel or ground. A Oats. - Oats are less apt to heat than common boss is shown in fig. 539, where barley, though their heating is stronger. If sap remain in the joints of the straw , oats will be sure to heat in the stack .

Heating gives to oat - straw and grain a reddish tinge, may render the straw unfit for fodder, and give the corn a bitter taste . Wheat. Wheat seldom heats, but -

when it does the heat is most violent. Heated wheat is bitter to the taste.

Partial Heating.-Partial heating is

induced in a compressed part of a stack с

caused by bad building, and it is indi cated by the stack leaning over. Propping Stacks. — To prevent a stack

from leaning to one side, props of weed ings of plantations are loosely set around

it to guide subsidence, especially if it has been rapidly built ; but in using props caution is required not to push one harder in than others. Stacks often sway when ever their top is finished, when props should be set to keep them upright.

To push a prop firmly into a stack much swayed requires the strength of two men one to push up backwards between

Fig. 539. – Pyramidal boss and trestle. a Tying of 3 sticks to7 b Fillets of wood . c Trestle. gether .

three trees are tied at the top, standing

the stack and the prop, with both hands about 8 feet in height and 3 feet asun clasped upon the outside of the prop, the der. They are other to push forward with the shoulder fixed together by planted against the prop below the other rows of fillets of wood nailed on,

man's hands.

stiffening the pyr Stack Ventilators.

Various contrivances have been intro-

amid and prevent ing the sheaves

duced . as safeguards again the ing in passi st heatwood ng into stack Thes are most gener trest , boss.

A ally en e le s structures, in Scotland named bosses, which about 2 feet high , signify hollows . The mode of using is placed on one

them is to occupy the space which would

side

have been filled with the heads of the

the air into the

sheaves of corn, with a void into which

boss.

to

conduct

When stacks

An objection to

are built on bosses erected on stathels,

this form of boss is, that as the

the air shall find access.

the air finds access through the stathel; but when built upon the ground, a trestlé stack subsides, the of woodwork may be connected with the sharp apex pene- Fig. 540.—-Prismaticboss. boss, by which the air is led into the in- trates through the terior of the stack. When such a trestle sheaves and disfigures the upper part of

is placed at both sides of a boss, a ventilation is maintained through the body of

the stack . Prismatic

the stack.

which many prefer, is shown in fig. 540.

Common Boss. — The most common

Boss.

- A form

of boss

It consists of three stems of small trees,

GRAIN HARVEST .

102

7 feet long, held together in the form of crops may be prevented from à prism , 3 feet in width, by fillets of after they are cut. wood nailed to them.

The prism is set

Small Stacks or

injury

“ Ricklings .” — As

on end, and upon a stathel, which is explained on p . 86, some farmers resort nailed to it ; but as a further means of to the plan of building two or three stooks stability, a spur from each tree might together in small stacks in the field .

be nailed to the stathel within the prism . Others cart the partially dried corn to

Upon the ground it requires a trestle for the stackyard , and there build it into the conveyance of air.

The advantage of this boss over the other is, that it supports the top of the stack evenly when it subsides , thereby relieving the body of the stack of the

small loosely formed stacks, which are afterwards, in one, two, or three weeks, according to the character of the weather, either transformed into stacks of the usual dimensions, or put through the

threshing machine. This double stacking is tedious, costly, employed to form a hollow in the heart and in most respects undesirable ; yet it weight of its top.

Other Methods.-Other means are

of a stack, such as by setting the upright is preferable to allowing partially dried sheaves which form the foundation of the

corn to be injured in the field, and is

stack around a long cylindrical bundle of largely pursued in late districts in wet straw,firmly wound with straw -rope, or harvests. sack filled with hay, and as the stack Field Stacks.—It is a common prac rises in height, the

bundle

or

tice with some farmers to build a portion of the crop in the field . This is not com

sack is drawn up mendable in good weather, as, besides through its centre

the trouble of carrying thatch to the

to the top, where field, much waste is experienced in carry it is removed, ing corn to the steading in winter, when leaving a hole the stacks are wanted, perhaps in bad the weather or through deep snow . The through height of the stacks there are beyond protection, and

stack. This hole subject to depredation. A scheme may creates a current be justifiable under peculiar circum of air through

stances which would not be in ordinary

the stack, allow- practice, and the building of stacks in ing the heated

the field is one of them .

air to escape, while the cool air enters from be

Fig. 541.- Taylor's stack ventilator .

ARTIFICIAL DRYING .

low by means of

Many attempts have been made to in

a trestle or stathel.

troduce some practical method of dry ing the cereal crops by artificial means.

Measuring Heat in Stacks.

--The degree of

So far, however, little success has been attained.

Hot - air Drying. — The system of

heating in a stack may be found by the drying by a hot-air blast, referred to in stack -thermometer. Improved Ventilator.–An excellent

the chapter on Haymaking , pp. 37-39, was at one time looked to with consider

stack ventilator of an improved pattern able hope. Unfortunately, however, it is represented in fig. 541. It is made by has proved to be impracticable. Taylor & Sons, Hawick, and is a most Nelson System . This method, also effectual ventilator, alike for stacks of described in the chapter on Haymaking, grain and hay. Pp. 37-39, has been tried with fairly good STACKING IN WET WEATHER .

results by some farmers ; but it has no where come into general or extensive use.

Drying Racks.- Perhaps the most sorely perplexed to know how their successful and useful efforts have been In wet harvests farmers are often

1

ARTIFICIAL DRYING .

103

those directed to the devising of what of sheaves. The sheaves are built with are known as “ drying racks.”

the head towards the hollow centre of

These

racks consist of contrivances by means the rack , so that the grain is not only

of which the sheaves of damp corn may protected from wet, but directly exposed be stored in thin layers in such form as to the internal current of air. to induce the play of currents of air, and By resorting to some such plan as this, expose the sheaves to the drying influence thus created or encouraged .

corn which would otherwise be seriously

damaged is often tolerably well pre

In late wet districts it has long been served. the custom , in cases of slow drying, to

build imperfectly dried corn on hurdles

Richmond's Rack .

or other wooden erections in what is called the “ sow ” form . The sheaves

An ingenious and efficient rack, in vented and brought into use by Mr John

are built, perhaps only one sheaf deep, Richmond, Dron, Bridgeof Earn, Perth WWWMWIN

on both sides, and on the top of a long shire, is worthy of special notice. wooden frame. The hollow centre is left Construction . - Mr Richmond's plan, open at both ends, and a current of air first successfully carried into practice in

is thus kept playing upon the thin layers 1889, consists in laying the sheaves in

ancora

niitidaklelikdan Tuuluun

སང་ ངང་ ཤར༌ ངང་ ང༌་ སང༌ ང་

Fig. 542. - Richmond's corn -rack.

the “ sow ” form on the wires of two rack, so that the grain may be always parallel titanic wire fences, about 5 feet exposed to the draught through the apart. The wires on either side are fixed centre of the rack . The double wire in triple rows from end to end of the every third space prevents the sheaves rack, the first two being 8 inches from from slipping, and by means of the

each other, and the third being 10 inches from the second, and at thisthird wire there is a subsidiary wire from the other side of the standard to prevent the

greater distance allotted to this third row provision is made for a transverse through draught every third row. The wires are supported on the intermediate

sheaves from slipping. A row of sheaves standards by strong nails or pins driven is placed on each wire, the heads of the into the standards at a sharp upward

sheaves all pointing to the centre of the angle, so that when the workman is fill

GRAIN HARVEST.

104

ing one row he may lift the next wire up the rack will be about £ ,2 per acre — that to a higher pin,so as to give him greater is, that the cost of rack capacity, suffi freedom of action. The rack is made cient to hold theaverage cropof one acre,

about 15 feet high, which provides for will be about that sum.

Without the

twenty rows of sheaves on either side.

corrugated iron roof the cost would be

The straining -posts and intermediate standards are strongly fixed and well spurred to guard against wind pressure, and the whole rack is covered with a roof of corrugated iron .

only about £ 1 . It is obvious that the rack, if strongly erected, would last for many years, and thus for a very small annual charge—the interest on the origi nal cost of £ 2 per acre capacity, say 28.

Testing the Rack . — In the harvest

per acre per annum — the farmer may

of 1889 Mr Richmond had this rack sub- provide effectual means of having his mitted to a searching trial. In the pres- grain crops dried without injury from in ence of a number of practical farmers he clement weather. had it filled with barley which was cut Removing the Rack .

The materials

the same day. Grass and clover seeds composing this rack can nearly all be had been sown along with the barley, easily removed at the end of thetenancy, and the sheaves were thick with grass as the strainers only are sunk in the

in the bottom , just the kind of sheaves ground. The intermediate standards rest most difficult of all to dry. The weather upon bricks, which are laid on the sur was very dull and muggy for some time face of the ground. after the rack was filled , yet the trial was Utility of the Rack.- It will be a complete success. The barley dried readily understood that a rack of this

beautifully, and was threshed in the fol- kind would be a great boon where the lowing March without trace

of

a

discoloration on

Advantages of the

Rack . — The efficiency of the rack in drying fresh

Lo

either the grain or straw .

cut sheaves having been thus established, it is obvi ous that Mr Richmond's in

vention possesses great prac tical value.

The chief merit

of the rack, of course , is, that it is capable of saving a crop which might other wise be lost or seriously damaged . But other ad vantages are also claimed

for it.

These are, that it

dispenses with stooking, saves stack -thatching, less

1

ens the labour-bill by mak ing it unnecessary for the

1 1

farmer to retain extra hands

through a protracted har vest, and enables the farmer to clear the stubble land for ploughing as soon as the

Fig. 543. - Richmond's corn - rack - section.

crop is cut, thus facilitating preparations harvest is usually late and the climate moist. In the upland glens it should be forthe crops of the succeeding year. Cost of the Rack. — Mr Richmond of great benefit, and here the cost of con estimates that the cost of constructing struction might be lessened by substitut ing heather or broom for the roof of cor IN . B. Agriculturist, 1890, 226. rugated iron . It is not likely that many

GENERAL NOTES.

farmers will erect rack accommodation sufficient to hold their entire crop, but

105

In this rack Mr Duncan has success

fully stored grain carried to it imme on most farms a large rack would be a diately on being cut. In this case, how profitable investment. ever, the sheaves have to be laid loosely, The Rack in Dry Seasons . - In dry and in average weather the crop takes

seasons, when not required for drying the long to dry thoroughly. He thinks it crop, the rack might be easily converted better that the grain should first be ex

into a shed in which the crop might be posed in the stook in the ordinary way stacked, as in a hay -barn or covered for a few days, and then taken to the stackyard. For this purpose the wires rack to have the drying completed. If of the rack may be easily removed. exposed in stook for two days in fairly Capacity of the Rack.—This rack, 15 dry weather, the crop may be put into feet high, will hold in the double rows one-third less space in the rack than if 756 sheaves in a section of four yards. racked immediately on being cut. This will be rather more than the produce of one acre.

It will be seen from figs.

542, 543, that in each rack there is a

GENERAL NOTES.

double row of sheaves, with an open

Length of Stubble.-The improved reaping - machine cuts the crop very

space in the centre.

This open space

varies with the length of the sheaves, close to the ground, and the advantage of the wires of the two rows being 5 feet this is greater than many would at first

thought imagine.

apart.

The following state

Filling the Rack . The filling of the mentmay bedepended on as being the

rack entails more labour than ordinary result of experiment :

stack -building. One forker can keep two weight of straw from one acre, when cut persons going in placing the sheaves in

to within

the racks, but the placing is so simple work that it can be done by any farm hand of ordinary intelligence. Preventing Bird Injury. - By very

8

simple and inexpensive means birds can be prevented from consuming or injuring

cwt. qr. lb.

2 inches of the ground I2

11

.

26

I

o

23

I

6

21

O

2

It is thus seen that 1/2 cwt. of straw is left on one acre with one inch of

grain in this rack. The heads of the stubble — a point which farmers should sheaves, we have seen , are turned towards keep in view. Still there are cases in the centre of the rack . The ends of the which it would be doubtful economy to

rack are made bird -proof by galvanised cut very close to the ground. If grass wire-netting, now procurable at a trifling and clover seeds have been sown with cost.

the grain crop, very close cutting may

Mr Richmond has patented his rack, be undesirable, both for the grain and but intends giving the right to erect it the grass and clover. A rank stubble on payment of a very small royalty. in such cases will afford an excellent Mr Duncan's Rack .

A rack of a different pattern, but also

run for sheep, and be especially useful in flushing ewes before tupping. Proportion of Grain to Straw.

veryuseful, has long been employed by The proportion which the grain and straw Mr James Duncan,Panlathie Mill, For- bear to each other cannot be stated with farshire. Instead of the wires used by reliable accuracy. We received the Mr Richmond to carry the sheaves, Mr following statement of their relative Duncan uses movable wooden rails, and weights in the neighbourhood of Edin

mainly with the idea of economising burgh from Andrew Gibson of the Dean space he builds three sheaf- lengths of Farm : From a crop of wheat, of 40 average grain on each shelf. To prevent bushels to one acre, or of 2600 lb., at 65 the devouring of the grain by birds, he places the heads of the sheaves inwards, leaving the butt -ends exposed to the centre tunnel of the rack and towards the outside.

lb. of one bushel, the straw will weigh 9 kemples of 440 lb. each, or 3960 lb., affording just one -half more weight of straw than of grain. From a crop of barley of 60 bushels, weighing 56 lb. of

GRAIN HARVEST.

106

one bushel, or 3360 lb. on one acre, the where there were 120 plants, the straw weight of straw is 7 kemples, or 3080 and chaff, and stubble and roots, were Ib., being one- tenth of less weight of nearly equal in weight.

straw than of grain.

From a crop of 60

DRILLED .

bushels of oats, at 45 lb. of one bushel, or 2700 lb. on one acre, the weight of Plants in 1

straw is 8 kemples, or 3520 lb., being

Weight of

Weight of stub

straw and chaff

ble and roots

on I acre .

on 1 acre.

square yard .

one-third more weight of straw than of

grain.

These are all average quantities .

In ordinary crops at a distance from

Ib .

Ib .

5445

18,150 37,510

towns, the straw is about twice the

32 53

7260

P. M'Lagan of

78

4235

Pumpherston made experiments for this work in 1849 on the relative proportion

94

6656 5748 6050

weight of the grain.

140

208

of grain and straw , and these results were obtained : Of four experiments

14 , 520 14,520 12,100 17,244

with oats dibbled, the average weight of With the exception of 53 plants to one

grain from one acrewas 3479 lb., and of square yard, which yielded five times of straw and chaff 7260 lb., or more than

stubble and roots to the straw and chaff,

two times the weight of straw to one of the difference in the relation between grain. Of six experiments with oats them is one to two and three.

drilled, the average weight of the grain

BROADCAST.

was 2974 lb. on one acre, and that of

the straw and chaff 5836/4 lb., being less than two times the weight of straw to one of grain. Of four experiments with

Plants in square yaru .

Weight of

Weight of stub

straw and chaff on r acre .

ble and roots on 1 acre.

oats sown broadcast, the grain weighed on one acre 317674 lb., and the straw

and chaff 642876 lb. , or rather more than

19 52

ib .

lb.

3932

13,330 20,570

6050

two times the weight of straw to one of

grain : two times the weight of straw to

Roots of Hay. - Here the difference

andthree. Johnston oneof grain of oats may thus be regarded is again one to two according experi as near the truth at a distancefrom large mentions that,

to the

towns, while in their immediate vicinityments of Hlubek in the agricultural garden

grain bears a larger proportion to the at Laybach, the sheep's fescue and peren. the straw. nial rye- grass left of roots in the soil Proportion of Crop and Roots. three times the weight of the hay pro Another point of interest the relation duced

;and in old pasture the roots were

is

whichthe stubble and roots left in the four times as heavy as the hay.

Even

ground bear to the straw and corn car after the roots had been thoroughly ried off it. P. MʻLagan's experiments dried, they weighed half as heavy again give results which are both surprising as the crop. and anomalous.

Thus :

Total Weight of Growth . — The same

DIBBLED.

data show the comparatively small weight of the seed to the crop.

Weight of straw and chaff

Weight of stub .

on i acre.

on i acre .

IL.

Ib.

26 49 75

6050 8470 4840

I 20

9680

19,360 27,830 29,040 10,588

Plants in 1 square yard.

Thus : Ib .

ble and roots

tons cwt , lb.

rain .

Dibbled .

3,479 Straw and chaff . 7,260 Stubble and roots 21,704 32,443 = 14 9 75 Grain .

Drilled .

2,974

Straw and chaff : 5,836 Stubble and roots 19,007

Where there were 75 plants in one square

yard, the stubble and roots weighed six times the weight of straw and chaff; and

27,817 = 12 8 40

1 Johnston's Lect. Agric. Chem ., 2d ed ., 746.

GENERAL NOTES. Ib.

tons cwt. Ib.

Grain . 3,176 Straw and chaff 6,428 Stubble and roots 11,450

107

P. M'Lagan remarks: “ There is one

.

Broad cast .

thing that strikes me as curious and

interesting - namely, the great prepon derance of pickles reaped when only 2

21,054 = 9 7 110 pickles were put into the hole compared

It thus appears that dibbling raised the to the result when 3 were put in . One largest weight of crop from the smallest pickle in ahole gave a much better yield weight of seed, and broadcast the smallest than 3.

Might we not argue from this,

weight of crop from thelargest weight of that if dibbling is to be much practised, it will be better to make more holes, and Boussingault's Experiments . — Bous- put fewer seedsinto each hole ? There is singault made experiments on the stubble some confirmation of this from the results seed.

and roots of wheat, oats, and clover in obtained from broadcast, where there is 1839, dried in the sun and air, and their a gradual increase of produce according weights per acre were as follows: to the quantity sown - owing, I suppose, cwt. to the seeds being more equally distrib Wheat stubble and roots 534 uted over the ground. The rest of the Oat field not experimented on was sown the Clover 154/5 ? same day as the parts on which the above Number of Grains. — In prosecuting observations were made, at the rate of 44/5

these experiments to an end, P. M‘Lagan bushels to the acre.

It was in full ear on

obtained the numbers of grains of oats the gth and 11th July, and was reaped on from various numbers of plants on one the 8th of September. I also sowed some square yard, thus : at the rate of 22/5 and 31/5 bushels to the DIBBLED . acre . It was also a good crop, and was Plants in 1

square

yard .

Number of

of grains raised Weight grain on in i square yard .

I acre .

Number of bushels

of 40 lb. per acre .

nearly as soon ready for reaping as the In . crease

in fold .

rest of the field.

I made several obser

vations about the time the corn came

into ear, and found that it came into ear

according to the thickness of sowing,

Ib .

26 49

75

7,500 11,700 5,400

2724

68

288

3859

96

2118

53

240 72

Plants Number of ini grains raised

in 1 square

Weight of grain on

Number of bushels

of 40 lb.

I acre .

yard.

yard .

most forward.

The thinnest sown had

strong straws and magnificent heads, but I was obliged to cut them before they were ripe. Although several parcels were

DRILLED

square

the thickest sown being first in ear, and the drilled portion being always the

In

cut on the same day, they were not

crease

equally ripe, the thinnest sown always

in fold .

per acre.

being greenest." Weeds and Harvest Work . - Far

lb.

3025

75

234

53

7500 7900

3632

91

150

2420

94

5600 6900

32

3025

72

75

73

BROADCAST .

mers neglecting to keep their land free from weeds give reapers much uneasiness and waste much time while getting rid of

large weeds, some of which injure the hands seriously. The corn dead -nettle, Galeopsis tetrahit, is dangerous, causing swellings, heat, and pain in the hands;

Plants

in i square

yard .

Namber of

Number of

of grains raised Weight on in i square grain I acre . yard .

In .

bushels of 40 lb.

crease

in fold .

per acre .

lb.

19 52 68

5100 8000

8700

2117

3113 3632

533

270 154

91

128

as also the biennial spear-thistle, Cnicus lanceolatus, the spines of which , breaking in the flesh, inflict acute pain when touched , and are exceedingly troublesome to extract. The only safeguard against such injuries is to wear harvest gloves. Tidy Stackyards.

The practice of many farmers, who

Boussingault's Rur. Econ ., 486 , 487 - Law's tr. leave the stackyard in a slovenly state

108

GRAIN HARVEST.

after the carrying of the corn and the does not require so tight a band to hold thatching of the stacks are finished, is it together. The only art in tying the much to be deprecated. The stackyard sheaf with bean -stalks consists in not is often left for a long time littered thick bending the thick end of the stalk . Our

with the refuse of the thatching-straw, plan is as follows: The reaper, who which, when wetted with rain, is useless generally cuts with a long -handled hook, as litter, soon heats, and causes an un- first pulls up by the roots 3 or 4 stalks ; pleasant odour among the stacks. The on these the sheaf is laid as cut, and in

bunched straw should be taken to the about 3 days the straw is sufficiently straw -barn, and the loose to the sheds of withered to admit of the thinner end of the hammels for litter to the cattle, which the stalks forming the band being bent will soon occupy them as their winter over the sheaf, and twisted tightly round quarters. The ground should be raked the root-end, which need be bent up clean . The air will then become sweet, wards from the ground scarcely at all, the stacks have a free circulation of air so that the shape of the band when tied amongst them , and the poultry have the might be described by a semicircle. " chance of picking up every grain that A bean-stook, which consists of 4 or may have fallen from the sheaves. more sheaves, is never hooded . Bean

sheaves should always be kept on end, REAPING BEANS, PEAS, AND TARES.

as they then resist most rain . If allowed

to remain on their side after being blown The leguminous crops, having stiff or over by the wind, little rain soaks them, trailing stems, are more difficult to reap and a succeeding drought causes the pods than the cereals. to burst and spill the beans upon the ground. Beans. Sometimes to admit of preparations

If sown tolerably early beanswill likely for a succeeding wheat crop, the beans

in an average season be ready for reaping as soon

as cut are removed from the

towards the end of September. They field and stooked elsewhere. should not be so ripe as that the pods Peas.

will open and allow the beans to escape .

Examine the crop carefully as it apWhenever the straw and pods of peas proaches maturity, and cut it whenever become brown they are fit for reaping.

the eye of the bean is black and the In seasons when the straw grows luxuri skin has acquired a yellowish colour and antly, it is cut down whilst retaining leather - like appearance. much of its greenness. On account of

The reaping is generally done by the their trailing stems, peas are difficult common sickle,handfuls and the produce of four to cut, and the best work is perhaps drills is laid in in one row. made by the hook. The reaping-machine In some cases the beans are left lying and scythe are, however, both used for in this form for a few days, and then

the purpose.

turned, and shortly afterwards lifted and

Peas as a rule are not bound at first, but laid on the ground in separate

bound into sheaves with short straw-

ropes, previously provided, and the bundles, where, after drying for some sheaves are then stooked. In other time, according to the state of the cases they are bound and stooked as weather, the bundles are rolled into an reaped. oblong form , and made firm by a wisp In

many instances the reaping-machine of their own straw.

is now employed in cutting beans.

The bundles may

be set together in pairs to form a sort

When peas are sown with beans, the of stook, or left singly over the surface haulm of the peas makes excellent bands. of the field. Pea -bundles are bound by A writer in the Isle of Ely maintains women as well as by men . that beans can be well bound by their

own straw . He says : “ I must remind the incredulous objectors that, different

Tares.

Tares are most easily and quickly

from any other corn, the bean - sheaf reaped by the reaping-machine or scythe. couches ' together in drying, and thus

To win they are placed in bundles by

REAPING BUCKWHEAT.

the gatherers, and afterwards bound in a similar manner to the pea.

109

nate rain and sunshine are requisite to set the flower. The flower drops off in

In dry and warm seasons, peas and thunderstorms, and it withers in cold tares may be harvested as early as the

east winds. After flowering, dry weather

cereal grains; but beans are always long brings the seed to maturity. in winning, and sometimes are not har“ The ripening of the grain is very

vested until three weeks after the other unequal,” says Thäer, “ for the plantis crops. continually flowering and setting. We must therefore cut it at the time the STACKING PEAS AND BEANS .

greatest quantity of grain is ripe. It sometimes happens that the first flowers

Peas. — The bundles of peas are turned do not set, or that they produce nothing in the field till they are dry, and they but barren seeds, destitute of farina, are made smaller by being tied with a while those which come out later yield wisp of their own straw . Pea -straw is better seed. But the grain will ripen,

very aptto compress in thestack, and to and even the flowers set, while the crop heat, and should therefore be built with is lying on the ground after cutting,

bosses, either in round stalks or oblong especially if rain fall. This occurrence ones like a haystack. When peas become is therefore considered favourable.” 1 very dry in the field , the pods are apt to In the south of England a period of open and spill the corn in sunny weather hot and dry weather is necessary in -to avoid which, they should be carried autumn to harvest buckwheat. and built on bosses. Cutting .-- Buckwheat may be reaped

Beans. — Beans are a long time of win- with the sickle, scythe, or machine, or it ning in the field in calm weather. If the may be pulled up by the roots, which land they grow on is desired for wheat,

last method is recommended by some as

they should be carried to a lea -field and stooked till ready to be stacked. Being hard and open in the straw, they keep well in small stacks, though not quite

less likely to shed the seed when fully ripe. In dry weather it should be reaped early in the morning, or late in the evening, when the dew is upon

dry ; and there is risk of keeping them it, and should not be moved too much in the field in dry weather after much in the day. Drying. – Buckwheat may be tied up rain, when the pods are apt to burst and

spill the corn. In building both pea and bean stacks, the sheaves are laid with their corn -end inwards, and tramped with the feet. The stacks receive but little

in sheaves, or made into bundles like peas ; but, in either way, it should be protected from birds, which are very fond of the seed. Owing to the thick

trimming, the peas none at all, the beans knotty stems of the straw, the green with the back of a shovel.

state in which it is cut, and the late

Thatching Peas and Beans.— The period it comes to harvest, a succession thatching of pea and bean stacks is done of fourteen or fifteen fine days is requi

in the manner described for grain, but site to dry it sufficiently for stacking, less pains are bestowed in finishing it.

It should be turned and moved several

As, however, a good deal of corn is ex- times in preparing it for the stack ; and posed on the outside of pea and bean these acts should be done gently and in stacks, their bodies are also thatched the dew, the least to disturb the seed ; with straw , kept on with straw -ropes. but the plant does not easily spoil when

lying on the ground. To be early carried , it should be built in small stacks with REAPING BUCKWHEAT.

bosses.

The buckwheat is a plant remarkably Produce.—A diversity of opinion ex affected by the weather. It requires dry ists as to the productiveness of buck weather on being sown, and it springs in wheat—Thäer considering 20 bushels on the greatest drought. But after putting one acre an extraordinary crop very rare forth its third leaf, it must have rain for

the development of its flowers. During

1 Thäer's Prin. Agric. , ii. 484 - Shaw and

the long time it continues in flower, alter- Johnson's transl.

GRAIN HARVEST.

IIO

ly to be obtained ; while Hewitt Davis ing crop, particularly the taller-growing says that he has reaped 70 quarters sort, Helianthus annuus, from which cir from 12 acres, which is rather more than cumstance the dwarf species, Helianthus 46 bushels on one acre.1 indicus, has been preferred by some cul Feeding Properties . — The straw of tivators in France, who assert that, as buckwheat is excellent fodder for cattle its dwarf habit of growth admits of a

as long as it is fresh ; and the green greater number of plants being grown plant, when raised with manure, affords on a given space, it is not so much in a forage in summer which causes great ferior to the other in quantity of pro increase of milk in cows, but produces a duce as, from its appearance, one would stupefying effect upon them . It is also a valuable manure for wheat.

be led to expect. In addition to the uses above mentioned, some French

No grain is so eagerly eaten by poultry authors assert that the leaves, either in and game, or makes poultry lay eggs so a green or dried state, form excellent soon and abundantly, as buckwheat. It food for cows, and that they are greedily is relished by horses amongst oats. Its eaten by them . The stems also form good fuel.” 2 meal fattens both poultry and pigs. Its flour makes good unleavened cakes, which must be eaten fresh, as they soon turn sour .

Its blossom

is considered ,

in Flanders, to afford the best food

BIRDS DESTRUCTIVE TO CORN CROPS .

for bees.

!

There has from time to time been much discussion as to the question HARVESTING

THE SUNFLOWER .

When the stems and discs of the sun-

whether birds do more good to the farmer and gardener by devouring de

flower become withered, and the seeds structive insects than harm in eating shining and dark -coloured, the plant is and spilling fruit and seed. The prev

ready to be reaped. It is simply pulled alent opinion at one time was, that up by the roots, which in a strong crop every bird consumed seeds to support requires force ; but the stem can be easily their young, and hence the quantity cut through with a sharp sickle. The consumed must be great. Now it is discs are afterwards cut off with a sharp known beyond doubt that most birds knife, and the seeds rubbed out. feed their young on animal, and not on

Produce. - Lawson says that from 30 vegetable, food. Birds are neither en to 40 bushels of seed on one acre is a tirely insectivorous nor entirely graniv These will yield 50 gallons of oil ; the refuse will make

fair crop of sunflower.

orous.

They generally feed their young

on insects and molluscs, while feeding 1500 lb. of oilcake; and the stalks burnt themselves with fruits and seeds, the into ash will afford a half ton of potash. product of the garden or the field. Professor Johnston mentions that the This being the true state of the case, let us determine which of the birds really seed yields 15 per cent of oil. Sunflower Oil. — Lawson says : “ The destroy corn seeds of both the common and dwarf sun-

flower yield an oil little inferior to that

or valuable seeds in the

fields.

Greenfinch. — The greenfinch, Linaria

of the olive for domestic purposes. In chloris, in the seed season, accompanied Portugal the seeds are made into bread, by the young brood, will attack almost In Amer- every sort of seed that is ripe or ripen as also into a kind of meal. ica they are roasted, and used as a sub- ing, but more particularly turnip -seed stitute for coffee ; but the purpose for and flax. Oat-fields, and even wheat which they seem best adapted is the fields, near woods and hedges suffer

feeding of domestic fowls, pheasants, and considerably, the greenfinch being sel other game. The greatest objection to dom idle, shelling and munching from their culture is, that they require very sunrise to sunset. Yellow - hammer. — The yellow -ham

superior soil, and are a most impoverish1 Davis's Parm . Ess., 68.

? Lawson's Agric. Man. , 292.

BIRDS DESTRUCTIVE TO CORN CROPS.

III

mer, Emberiza citrinella, prefers for its the immediate removal of the corn be own eating corn and seeds, particularly came necessary. The sparrow and other oats ; and in new -sown fields of oats, as birds burrow into the stack, and pilfer well as wheat, it may be seen busily the corn, but the deliberate operation of picking up the grain from the moment unroofing the edifice appears to be the it is sown till the period of its brairding. habit of the bunting alone.” By autumn, when the broods are reared

A circumstance such as this shows the

and the corn crops begin to ripen, they risk to which stacks built in the field assemble with sparrows and corn -bunt- are exposed, when they would be safe ings, and leave little alongside the hedges in the stackyard.

but empty husks on the standing straw. Skylark . - The common skylark, or When feeding in the stubble-fields, they laverock, Alauda arvensis, is more de advance by short leaps, with their breasts structive than the corn -bunting to seed near the ground ; when danger ap- corn and crops, inasmuch as it is more proaches, crouch down motionless ; and

numerous .

But who would grudge the

when alarmed, give out their ordinary laverock all that it can find inthe fields ? short note,yite, yite.

They are more In winter, larks assemble in flocks, grow

shy than chaffinches, but less so than fat, and are taken in numbers for the the corn -buntings. table, and sent to the markets in London Seed -bunting.-- The seed -bunting, or and other English cities. In Scotland

black -bonnet, Emberiza schæniculus, lives they are not in request. mostly on seeds, though small patches Linnet.— The grey or brown linnet of oats on the crofts in the upland dis- (rose lintie), Linariacannabina, does more

tricts attract its notice. Not being shy, damage than is generally supposed. It it is not easily scared away . It is migra- visits patches of turnips left for seed, and tory in most parts of Scotland, departing frequents the newly sown turnip-fields.

in October, and reappearing in the be- When the young families begin to wander ginning of April.

in small companies as the corn becomes

Corn - bunting. —The corn - bunting, ripe, they devour large quantities of the

Emberiza miliaria, feeds wholly on corn, standing corn , voraciously living upon it and in spring, together with the yellowhammer and others, devours considerable quantities of seed -corn of oats and barley. After the breeding season it feeds on beans, peas, wheat, oats, or barley, while

the greenfinch, and subsist on the stub

during autumn it feeds on the stubble-

bles .

from the moment it begins to whiten until led to the stackyard. After this period the smaller families associate in larger flocks, frequently combining with It frequents newly sown wheat

lands, sits close, and is shy. It visits the fields, and thins the seed-corn in detached new -sown fallow and potato-wheat. In patches so much, that the scantiness of winter it is remarkably fat, and superior the braird is ascribed to the attacks of a as an article of food to most of our small

grub.

It is easily scared.

birds.

Chaffinch. — The chaffinch (shilfa), “ It could hardly be supposed,” ob- Fringilla cælebs, frequents the vicinity of serves Knapp, " that this bird, not larger houses in autumn, searching for food in than a lark, is capable of doing serious fields and farmyards. It devours more injury ; yet I this morning witnessed a seeds of weeds than of corn , and is useful rick of barley, standing in a detached in keeping them down, and may be rank

field , entirely stripped of its thatching, ed as a benefactor to the farmer, the same Bechstein says “ that the passion for the end of the straw, and deliberately

which this bunting effected by seizing as the goldfinch, Carduelis elegans.

drawing it out to search for any grain the chaffinch is carried to such an extent the ear might yet contain—the base of in Thuringia, and those which sing well the rick being entirely surrounded by the are sought for with so much activity, that

straw, one end resting on the ground, and scarcely a single chaffinch that warbles the other against the snow , as it slid down from the summit, and regularly placed as if by the hand ; and so completely was the thatching pulled off, that

tolerably can be found throughout the province. In Rhul, a large manufactur ing town in Thuringia , the inhabitants, who are mostly cutlers, have such a pas

GRAIN HARVEST.

II2

sion for chaffinches, that some of them and other shrubs, it passes the night, have gone 90 miles from home to take sleeping on the ground in summer and with bird -lime one of those birds, distin- autumn, but commonly roosting on the guished by its song, and have given one trees in winter. Early in the morning it of their cows for a fair songster, from betakes itself to the open fields to search which has arisen their usual proverb- for its food, which consists of the tender a chaffinch is worth a cow. A common shoots of various plants, grasses, bulbous workman will give as much as 16s. for a roots of grasses, and Potentilla anserina, chaffinch he admires, and will willingly turnip -tops, as well as acorns and insects. live on bread -and-water to save the money

for this purpose."

In autumn, and the early part of winter,

1

it obtains a plentiful supply of grain, The peasantry here are not attracted acorns, beech-mast, and small fruits. In by the song of the chaffinch. severe weather, however, especially where

House-sparrow . — The house-sparrow, great numbers are kept, the pheasants Passer domesticus, is a well-known depre- require to be fed with grain, when they dator in our corn -fields.

It feeds upon learn to attend to the call of the keeper.'

corn and peas, which it abundantly obtains during several weeks in autumn in standing corn and in gardens. Buffon observes that " sparrows follow the sower in seed-time, and the reaper in harvest ; they attend the thresher at the barns, and the poulterer when he scatters grain

In the natural state , and in small num

bers, pheasants prefer insects and the young shoots of plants to corn , of which they pick at a time only a few grains ; but when semi-domesticated, and congre gated in large numbers, they assume the habits of the domestic fowl, and will eat

to his fowls; they visit the pigeon -house, and trample down extensive patches of and pierce the craws of the young pigeons the growing corn in the immediate vicin to extract the food."

ity of their preserves — and this they do

It is said that a sparrow eats its own weight of corn every day, if it can get it for the taking ; and Buffon calculates that

between the ripening and the reaping of the crop

Wood-pigeon.-A far more destruc

a pair of sparrows will eat 20 lb. of corn tive bird than the pheasant is the ringed

Columba every year. When as many as 3000 have dove, or cushat, or wood -pigeon, been caught on one farm in one day with palumbus. Its powers of destruction a net, we may calculate from such data

may be estimated by the wholesale levy

the quantity of corn they consume.2

it makes on the products of the fields and

The plague of sparrows has been in- of the woods, as thus enumerated by Mac

creasing rather than diminishing, and in gillivray : From its roost in the larger some districts farmers suffer great dam- branches of trees, “ it issues at sunrise to age from it. The sparrow multiplies very search the open fields for its food, which rapidly, and is difficult to keep in check.

consists of seeds of the cultivated cereal

This has been well illustrated in the

grasses --wheat, barley, and oats ; as well

United States of America, whither it was as of leguminous plants — beans and peas, introduced from this country, and where, and of the field -mustard and charlock. as here, it has become in some parts a In spring it also feeds on the leaves of the turnips and picks the young blades serious plague to the farmer.

These are the principal passerine birds of the red and white clovers. At this season I have several times found its which live upon our corn -fields. Pheasant. — Among others of larger crop distended with the farinaceous roots description, the pheasant, Phasianus col- of Potentilla anserina, obtained in the chicus, is accused of committing great ploughed fields. This root is highly havoc amongst corn crops. Its true habits nutritious; and formerly , in seasons of

are thus described by Macgillivray : scarcity, was collected in the West High “ Its favourite places of resort are thick plantations or tangled woods by streams,

lands and Hebrides as an article of food, and eaten either boiled or roasted in the

where, among the long grasses,brambles, peat-ashes.

In summer they eat grass,

1 Bechstein's Cage Birds, 183, note.

and other vegetable substances ; in au tumn grain, beech -mast, acorns, and legu

? Jour. Agric., vii. 284.98.

minous Seeds.

The beech - masts and

BIRDS DESTRUCTIVE TO CORN CROPS.

acorns they swallow entire , their bill not will eat fish ; it will go to the sea - coast11in3

being sufficiently strong to break them search of shell-fish when food is scarce up .'

halppcar eat straytheegglan itywil findanatd the The wood -pigeon destroys the growing on enryto off s itd ; ma crop in the manner described by an eye- steading ; it will eat the boiled potatoes

witness watching near, shy as it naturally and oatmeal porridge set down for the is : “ The wood - pigeon has a weak bill, poultry ; and when a bowl of barley but nature has provided her with very broth comes within its reach, it will soon strong wings. When the flock, therefore, empty it, and the sooner the thicker the settle upon the lying portion ofa wheat- barley is in the broth ; it will eat the field, instead of breaking off the heads boiled barley and peas out of the horses' and carrying them away, they lay them- mash -tub ; it will take up the young selves down upon their breasts upon the plants of potatoes after they have grain, and, using their wings as flails, sprouted ; it will pull up young plants they beat out the pickles from the heads, of turnips, to get at insects that may and then proceed to eat them . The con- happen to be near their roots in the sequence is, that the pickle having been manure — and it is poor comfort to the thrashed out upon a mattinsg of straw, a farmer to be told that the plants were great proportion of them fall down destroyed that insects might be captured ; through it to the ground, and are lost it will eat fruit off the trees ; it will even to the wood -pigeon ; in short, they do alight upon laid corn of all kinds , and not eat one pickle for twenty which they pick and scratch out much more than it thrash from the stalk . I have repeatedly can eat ; it alights also on stooks of corn , watched this process from behind the and pulls out the ears, and eats the corn ; trunk of a large willow - tree, growing in it will fly to a great distance to eat the a thick -set hedge on the edge of a wheat crowberry, Empetrum nigrum ; and it field, and seen the operation go on within will even break into the thatch of stacks two yards of me . The pigeons descend to get at the corn . These facts are suffi first singly ; but, having left a watcher cient in number to support the assertion upon the highest tree in the neighbour- that it is a destructive bird to the farm . mo

hood , the whole flock are soon at work In derate numbers, it would do no on the same spot, and the loss of corn to material injury in the fields, and many the farmer is very great. They are also people have a liking for “

gluttons in quantity .” 2 This bird has increased to almost incredible numbers in Scotland , and in many parts inflicts great injury on farmers. Partridge. The common partridge, Perdix cinerea, doubtless devours corn in the fields ; but however plentifully it may breed in any locality, it leaves no

a hav few ws tin growin crogwsbey aroaci habmit. ofBut per ond few, e acro undousthe and for the sake of the farmer's crop

their increase must be kept in check .

This may be most easily and effectually done by destroying nests ; but good may also be done by shooting the grown birds. marks upon any crop, and is always a Crows are wonderfully cute. They favoured bird with people in the country. travel long distances to obtain their Crows. — The rook or crow , Corvus food ; and it is said they do this in frugilegus, has a bad reputation amongst order to keep in good favour with the farmers, and not without cause ; for how

farmers near their rookeries.

He who

ever sedulously it will follow the plough asserts that the rook does no harm to and harrow, in search of worms and in- crops, and does good alone by the re sects, as long as it has to support its moval of insects from the soil, must young, there is no doubt that, after that either be a prejudiced or inaccurate period, it becomes omnivorous, and will observer of its habits. eat anything that comes in its way. It

will pick meat clean off the bone — it will tend vony Insdsectdos.more urtha Bied ingt bir codn rdsbyDema It is goo pick horse- flesh as long as it is fresh ; it than harm to farmers — that by devour 1

Macgillivray's Brit. Birds, i. 123 , 263 . Burn Murdoch's Obser . on Game, Il .

ing insects which would prey upon crops desetro mu'schcrodeb thadn they sav y. e Thi s isfaramer mor ps ate of the

VOL . III . H

GRAIN HARVEST.

114

point, difficult to determine satisfactorily. Unquestionably birds do live to a large extent upon insects, which would otherwise be liable to injure crops. It has been observed, for instance, that the grub

a solution of arsenic for agricultural pur poses before it is sown : if this grain be eaten by poultry, it will destroy them ; and a question may arise as to the effects which the flesh of the animals so poisoned

which attack grain crops are wonderfully is liable to produce on man.

In other

kept in check by crows, which devour instances, poison has been placed in the them greedily. Upon the whole, how- way of these animals with the malicious ever, the verdict must be emphatically object of destroying them . Thus oats against a few of the more voracious birds, such as the sparrow and the crow .

saturated with arsenic, or with that

poison intermixed , have been placed in game- preserves for the purpose of de

Methods of Prevention .

Scaring Birds.--Many devices have

stroying pheasants and other birds. During the last spring ( 1846) two black

been tried to scare destructive birds from

cocks were sent to me for examination

corn-fields and green crops. The most from the extensive preserves of a noble common is the scarecrow .

Scarecrows man in Scotland.

They had been found

are made of various forms and materials, dead on the ground. A quantity of ar but the most common is the similitude

senic was discovered intermixed with oats

of men and women in the tattered rags and the shoots of the larch in the crops of beggars. Pieces of bright tin are and gizzards of each bird, and arsenic also

made to flicker in the sunbeams, at the existed in the pectoral muscles and soft ends of strings. Lines of white threads organs. There had been previously a very large destruction of game on the

are hooked on from one object to an-

estate, as it was inferred, from poison.

other.

But as soon as birds become familiar.

There is hardly a doubt that, when the

ised with the form of these expedients, animal dies soon after the ingestion of they lose their terrors. The contempt poison, and obviously from its effects, the

shown for them by birds is told us by Hesh would be poisonous to man, although Cobbett in his own quaint way : “ Shoy- it might require a large quantity of the hoys," he observes, “ exercise their in- flesh to produce a fatal result. Professor

renders fluence but for a very short space of Christison reports a case which " 1

time.

The birds quickly perceive that this opinion highly probable.'

their guardianship of the treasures of the farmer is a mere sham ; and, like the sparrows in my neighbour's garden at Botley, they will, in a short time, make the top of the hat of a shoy-hoy a table whereon to enjoy the repast which they have purloined." Destroying Sparrows. — Where ivy is plentiful, in which sparrows delight

Gunpowder . - Gunpowder is the most

effectual means of any of scaring birds from fields. Rags steeped in a solution of gunpowder, dried, placed on the wind ward side of a field , and set on fire to smoulder, will act as a scare as long as

they last, but the renewal of them is troublesome. Other Methods.-By organised raids to harbour, a net has captured as many on the nests, and by persistent shooting,

as 3000 in one day. Sparrows are easily much may and should be done to keep

shot with sparrow -hail, when congregated the destructive birds within reasonable on a bare piece of ground , lured thereon numbers. by a favourite sort of food .

Prevention, not Extermination.

Poisoning Birds. — In regard to the But while it is necessary that steps

use of poison in killing birds, Taylor should be taken to prevent destructive answers this important query, “ Is the birds from becoming so numerous as to

flesh of poisoned animals poisonous ? This is a question which it is necessary to consider, because poultry and game are not unfrequently poisoned wilfully

inflict serious injury upon the farmer, it is not to be assumed that we would ad vocate the extermination of any of our feathered songsters. All that is desired

or accidentally, and in this state they in the interests of the farmer is that the may be eaten unsuspectingly. It is well known that grain is often saturated with

1

Taylor On Poisons, 164.

1

ANIMALS DESTROYING CROPS .

115 birds and beasts which prey upon his crops, and the most mischievous of the m rea son sho crops able is the rabbit, which has in some parts uld be kept in numbers .

increased beyond calculation. Hares are also blamed for injuring growainghare belitoevea that crophs ;less cropdoes butdam weage No wild birds are so destructive to muc of

Poultry injuring Crops.

standing corn as domestic fowls. The corn than a rabbit, as it eats the herbage, common hens pull down standing stalks which retards and even injures its growth, of corn , and after shaking a few grains whereas the rabbit will return to the out of an ear, leave it and pull down same plant and eat out its heart, and another stalk ; and where the corn is thus destroy it altogether. The hare

laid they scratch the straw and ears with does more damage to the turnip than their feet, and cause many more grains to corn crops. It bites holes in every

to come out than they consume .

Turkeys, being tall, are still more de- bul putref osiact frostw, suc thewh andceethe ng ion to tha m en by b, to exp ds.re str uctive than hens, and are less easily

By the passing of the Ground Game

satisfied .

Actht, the mert obt edpsthefroina le protec gronab Geese pull down standing corn, nibble rig hisaincro und to far m lie the grain out of the ear, trample laid game. corn quite flat, and greatly injure the

Rats . — The brown rat burrows in the

straw .

upying its fields, s ofeatsrabb both them,holeand find the Ducks usually content themselves in whe n itocccan shovelling off the ground the grain the the cereal and root crops. A plague of rats has lately been ex hens and turkeys have spilt, but they also trample laid corn flat.

Pigeons rest upon laid patches of wheat, and on picking the ears shake out the grain, which falls between the

perien tla hia the of Sco ns was in ula incalc dam don whe age in ble Lot e nd, re ced steadings and stackyards. Organised raids were made upon the rats, and at

straws tothe ground. Prevention . — The only means of sav- tra thoila poison severa adings somppe plawer usarnds d and guese e ste ed.l Sim ing growing crops from destruction when have occurredin different parts of Eng near the steading is to confine the poultry land. The practice of game - preservers

within the steading or other enclosure for of killing weasels and other beasts a time before the corn is ripe, until it is that prey upon rats as well as upon cut down. They do comparatively little game, has been alleged as one of the harm to stooks. In these enclosures causes of these plagues . The main food and water must be given daily, as cause, we suspect, is the failure of cer well as sand and gravel, dry earth or tain farmers to take reasonable steps to ashes.

The value of the corn and straw de- preMi micmeinc cet .the ged in an getrealod ens fro — Whrat ven sing. stroyed by poultry may not be as much old grain stack, they devour a great as the cost of maintaining them ; but the quantity of the corn, while the stack negligence evinced in allowing poultry to preserves its external appearance. When

roam at large in corn - fields is discredit- a weasel takes up its abode in a stack it able to a farmer .

should not be disturbed, as not a mouse ANIMALS DESTROYING CROPS .

will dare remain there.

Field -mice do much damage in some

incr to number to icul weddiff cases, if once very t ease to ex Ground Game.-There are animals grea s, areallo t and as well as birds which destroy corn terminate.

1

RAISING POTATOES .

116

RAISING The harvest work of a farm cannot be

said to be completed until the potato

crop has been taken out of the ground, and secured against the winter's frost. Early potatoes are now in use before the summer is completed, but the main bulk of the crop is seldom ready for lift-

POTATOES. even if the tubers could be separated from the roots, they would be so bruised

by the plough or digger that the damage done would be more than the total cost

of raising them by the graip. By care ful working, the ordinary steel graip or dung -fork may be used in digging pota

ing before the month of October. Symptoms of Ripeness.— Potatoes indicate fitness for being lifted by decay of the haulms. As long as these are green, the tubers have not arrived at maturity. In an early season some potatoes ripen before October ; and al though the weather should continue fine, it is best to let them remain in the ground until all the corn crops have been carried in . But in ordinary seasons

toes without any serious injury being done to the tubers. There is a special kind of potato graip or

D

often used .

This has flat

tened prongs, as shown in fig . 544 (Spear & Jack

son ), sometimes three, but generally four prongs. Raising by the Graip .

-In raising potatoes by the graip, each person, as a rule, digs one or two drills at a time, and the digger sometimes gathers, and sometimes does not gather, his or her own potatoes. In some dis

the corn is cut down and carried before

the potatoes are ready for lifting.

fork , however, which is

Im

mediately after the corn - fields are cleared, the potatoes should be taken up, to allow the land to be ploughed for wheat.

A Phenomenal season.—The dry season of 1868 was remarkably early for potatoes. Instead of being early taken up, however, the potatoes were allowed to remain in the ground until the ordi

tricts digging is done by men, women or boys do

Before this time rain had

ing the gathering ; but in

fallen , and then it was found that from

many cases, in Scotland , the bulk of the digging is now done by women , who each dig and gather

nary season .

manyof the tubers a sprout had been put out which bore new potatoes which had grown to a useful size.

It was averred

that the second crop did no injury to the original crop ; but that tubers which have produced tubers should not be thereby affected in their quality cannot be easily conceived. At any rate, the new crop had not time to become matured .

their own drills.

The first digging of the Fig. 544.- Potato season in Scotland takes graip.

place on the sandy lands along the Ayrshire coast,

where raising often begins in June. There women

can do the work easily Methods of Potato-raising. enough, because the drills are small and Potatoes are harvested in three differ- the land light and loose. In later dis

ent ways - viz ., by the digging graip or tricts, with heavier land, men are pre fork, by the plough, and by the potato- ferred as diggers when they can be got, digger. the women then generally doing the Digging Early Potatoes .-- The prac- gathering. tice of consuming potatoes before they

Speed of Digging . - In digging green

are fully matured is steadily increasing potatoes for immediate consumption, ten

These potatoes are always raised by the to twelve double graips, or twenty to graip, because at that time the tubers twenty-four single graips, are generally have a firm hold on the roots, and are supposed to do an acre each day. Much,

themselves so tender in the skin, that, of course, depends on the cleanness of

RAISING POTATOES . 117k the land, the weight of the crop, and the manner the barrel would run a great ris ease with which it can be dug. Barrels for Early Potatoes.

- At

this season of the year potatoes are

sent to market in barrels holding 1/2 cwt ., barrels being used because in them the potatoes do not rub so much the one against the other in handling, as they do in bags , their skins being thereby prevented from being ruffled and torn , as they are sure to be if put

of being damaged. cumSpe staedy perket nces Mar mit,ing the -usu tomcir alrecusthe is Whe

to send as many of the potatoes which have been dug on any particular day, to the railway station that evening, so that they may be carried during the cool of thenight to the place where they are to be consumed . Early potatoes being very soft and immature, very soon lose their into sacks. flavou andliedet aberi out.orate in quality, if ower,d to While the potatoes are being gathered , all Small Potatoes. - As soon as the crop the tubers over 12 inch in diameter or thereby are put into one basket and has begun to harden and ripen a little, those under that size into another. The the small potatoes are usually carried to large ones are put into barrels on the a bare smooth place in the field, where

spot without weighing, all barrels used they are redressed, the tubers over 174 being about the one size. Preparing Barrels. — As a rule the

barrels have been used previously for bringing flour from America or from the home mills, and before being employed for potatoes they are strengthened by an extra hoop or two, and strings put on the

season low h pri anedatfora lyg in bein aside inc setthe for , sal or ceso ear seed purposes. Those tubers under an inch or inch and quarter in diameter are

used for feeding cattle or pigs. The medium - sized ones , or seconds as

they are commonly called , when they are top. For this purpose six or eight half- to be preserved for seed, are at once inch holes are bored in the staves of the packed in the sprouting boxes referred barrel an inch or more from the top. to on p. 274, vol . iv . , and carefully stored Cord, three-eighths of an inch thick, is in any well - ventilated shed or empty then taken and passed through one hole byre. Even although very immature, forward to the centre of the barrel, and they can be preserved in this way with then back through the next hole. A comparatively little loss, whereas were knot is now put on each end of the cord

they stored in the usual way in pits till

on the outside of the barrel, and large the end of the year, before putting them enough for the cord knot not to pass in the boxes, a very large proportion of through the hole. The other holes are them would be spoiled. Disease. Atthis season of the year then roped in the same way, when the barrel is ready for use . Filling Barrels .-— When the barrel is

apfupelar dise late bu itsenti ly ma e rhaons , rawhreen cee; onanth is pl t as it de being filled, a very few of the best-shaped foliage, although scarcely perceptible on potatoes are dropped into a basket atthe the tubers, the small seed, even al side of the barrel, and when about filled, though more mature than previously, the barrel is completed by putting as keeps very much worse, and is often many as are necessary of those in the almost entirely lost. The reason is basket on the top. A few green potato supposed to be that in digging, the dis stems are now taken and packed firmly

ease spores, owing to the shaking the

over the top, and slightly above the rim of the barrel. A stout string, a foot or so in length, is then put through each of the loops of rope fixed on the top of the barrel, which, when tightly drawn and knotted, securely holds down the

plant receives to separate the tubers from the roots, are shed from the leaves over

the potatoes, where they vegetate and live after the potatoes are stored.

If

during digging any diseased potatoes are seen, they are thrown into the basket

top.

Handling Barrels . — In letting the wa conrdtai rejgectthe s nin ed sma if lltheonesma ter to one be safare s, ll barrels down from a man's shoulders, dressed for seed purposes. If the small or from a cart, they are always dropped tubers are not to be used for seed, all on the mouth. If dropped in any other go for cattle food.

RAISING POTATOES .

118

Potato -digger. Previous to the beginning of October

farms or on steep land, from 2 to 272 acres will be a good day's work. Preparing for the Digger . — When

very few potatoes are stored for future the digging is to be done one way only, use, anduntil storing commences, digging one drill, and in many cases two drills,

as a rule is done by the graip. When, should be dug by the graip or plough however, the leaves have beendead for a along the side at which a beginningis couple of weeks or so, storing may begin. desired to be made, before the digger is The work now to be accomplished in a brought on the field. Besides, if the

limited time is too great for such a slow head -ridges have been planted with pota toes, which they occasionally are, one

drill should be dug next to the hedge all round the field, and the potatoes from it

gathered. The digger may then com mence at any convenient corner and go

round the field, taking a new drill each time, till the whole head -ridge drills, and

an equal number at both sides, are dug. Force of Gatherers. Fig. 545.— Powell Brothers & Whittaker's potato - digger.

If there is no

disease in the crop , and if the crop is moderate, and all the potatoes large and

small are thrown into one basket, from twenty to twenty -four persons will keep

tool as the graip. On most large hold- a digger constantly going in this man ings the potato -digger is therefore called ner. If there are diseased tubers in into use, and admirably it performs the the crop, or if the small and diseased duties required of it. are to be in any way separated, thirty to

Two excellent modern improved potato- thirty-two persons may be required to diggers are here illustrated — that in fig . keep a digger going, according to the 545, made by Powell Brothers & Whit- weight of the crop , and amount of dis taker, Wrexham , and to which was eased ones to be taken out. awarded the first prize at the trials of

Arranging the Gatherers.

The

the Royal English Agricultural Society gatherers should be arranged in pairs, at Newcastle-on - Tyne in 1887 ; and that or singly as is thought most desirable,

in fig. 546, made by Alex. Jack & Sons, each plan according to circumstances having its advantages. If full baskets have to be carried by the gatherers to carts or sacks, then pairs will be the best ;

if not, they may work singly. If there is no disease, and the small tubers are not taken out, two baskets will be sufficient

for each gatherer ; but if the diseased or small tubers are to be separated, three baskets at least must be given to each .

Before beginning, the land should be Fig . 546.- Jack's potato -digger.

measured offinto equal lengths for each

Maybole, Scotland, and very largely used

gatherer or pair of gatherers, a lath, twig, pole, or other mark being put in

all over the country. Speed. With three good sharp -mov-

where the one's lot ends and the other's begins. ing horses, and in a fairly large field, The gatherers begin to collect from the

where everything is in readiness for it, end of their division nearest to where and a sufficiency of gatherers are at hand, the digger starts, and work towards the the digger will accomplish from 4 to 5 other end. acres per day. If digging is done only Harrows following Digger. — As one way , as is the usual custom on small soon as the first space is gathered, a boy

RAISING POTATOES.

119

should follow with a pony or other light again be round at the place where a be

quiet horse, yoked to a single division ginning was made — that is, if the num of a set of zigzag harrows, or, better still, ber of gatherers has been properly pro to a half of a set of the old pattern of portioned to the work which the digger hinged harrows. The latter isabout the can do. In the next and succeeding proper breadth, while the former is a drills the same routine is of course little too narrow .

The harrow should

be of moderate weight, but should have

followed .

Collecting Carts. — When the digger

good long tines, so that it may fully has made a circuit of the field, one or search the loose earth thrown out by the

more carts should follow ,

into which

digger, and bring the buried potatoes to each basket should beemptied as it pro ceeds.

the surface.

The ordinary farm -cart ( fig. 547,

Assoon as the harrow has passed the made by Alexander Jack & Sons, May

first division, the gatherer of that piece bole, Ayrshire, and figs. 348, 349 and of ground picks upthe exposed potatoes, 350, pp. 349, 350 Divisional vol. iv.) is and works towards the end where a be-

used in carting potatoes.

The empty

ginning was made. By the time the ing should be the work of the man in gatherer has collected the potatoes ex- charge of the cart, and not the gatherers.

posed by the harrow , the digger will If twenty gatherers are employed, and

Fig. 547.- Jack's farm -cart.

each gathers from 11/2 to 2 baskets of, full baskets far enough to the side to say, 3 stones each, a full box -cart will be prevent the digger throwing the earth got in each drill or less, so that a cart

on them when passing, as the more free

should at least go round every time the potatoes are from earth, the less they are liable to sprout in the pit. While the headlands and drills along or small tubers are taken out, a separate the side of the field are being dug in above

digger goes round .

Diseased Tubers . — If many diseased

cart will be required to carry these away manner, a single drill should be dug by as soon as the baskets holding them are hand from one end of the field to the full, or nearly so . Every potato show - other - say sixty drills from the side of

ing the slightest symptoms of disease the field . If there are not sufficient should be separated as the work proceeds. persons to dig and gather such a drill, These are of some value at digging time,

it may be done by the double mould

and not only of no value later on, but board or other plough, if the land is

they become positively hurtful by con- thoroughly clean and the shaws quite veying the disease to those healthy tubers with which they come in contact.

low the plough in the same way as it

The

follows the digger, and in many cases it

Tubers

free

from

Earth .

rotted .

The harrow must of course fol

gatherers should take care to put the will be advisable to turn the drill to one

RAISING POTATOES .

I 20

side with the single plough, and as soon One-way Digging .-- If the land is as the potatoes are gathered to turn it steep, or the number of gatherers limit back again to the other side, after ed, it may be advisable to dig only along one side of the field . In this case dig

which the harrow should level the land

before the digger comes along the next ging is always done down-hill, the ma drill. chine returning up-hill out of gear. As in Process of Digging .- One drill hav- the other system , the gatherers have ing been cleared by any of the above each their own division; but digging methods, the regular digging of the field drills at intervals through the field by should begin. According to the side of hand are done away with after it has the field from which the drills were been properly opened up. counted, the digger should either go Force of Horses.- While three horses along the outside drill, and back the one are required to work the digger when next to the hand-dug one, or else along digging both ways, two maydo where it first and then back the one next the only one side is dug. In the latter case fence.

Digging is proceeded with in

the number of gatherers is of course cor

this way until the space dug at the side respondingly small. next the hand -dug drill is at least 15 There are few operations on the farm

or 20 feet wide, after which the digger which require greater personal super may go down one side of the hand -dug vision than potato-digging. drill and back the other.

Adjusting the Digger . - Before be

This course is necessary, or at least ginning, the farmer or other person in advisable, to allow space for the digger charge should examine the digger care to throw out the potatoes to each side, fully and see that it is in good working

and still leave enough space between the order. They should in particular see two rows of ungathered potatoes for the that the graips or forks are the proper carts to go along without bruising the distance behind the sock , and the sock potatoes.

sufficiently below the graips to allow a

The carts should not pass each other considerable proportion of earth to pass

in this narrow space,but come in empty through, without compelling the forks to at the end furthest from where they are throw it to the side, or making it so

to be stored, and fill towards the other end. After a space has been dug quite wide enough to allow the carts sufficient space, and when it becomes inconveni-

wide that the potatoes pass through without being brought to the surface by the forks. If the forks are about three fourths of an inch behind the sock, and

ent for the carters to lift the potatoes the sock fully an inch below their from both sides at once, owing to their points, it will be found that the digger is

increasing width , the carts should follow easier drawn, and scatters the potatoes the direction of the digger, and empty better than if either are kept wider or the baskets along the one side, and then narrower. return along the other.

Depth of Digging . Whenever a

When the space so dug equals the commencement has been made in dig number of drills remaining next the side ging, particular attention should be di of the field, the digger should then go

rected to the depth at which the digger

round about them until they are finished . is working. If too shallow, some of the

By proceeding in this manner, the great potatoes will be cut, and others left in est amount of land is dug with the least the ground below the reach of the har travelling across the ends, and fewest rows; and in both cases they are, prac shifts ofthe gatherers. tically speaking, lost. A digger working It is seldom the headlands are suffi- badly in this manner may cause as many

ciently wide to allow the digger to get potatoes to be damaged and left in the easily out and in without missing some soil as would nearly pay for properly of the potatoes. To prevent loss here, digging the whole crop. If, again, the

it is advisable to have a person with a digger is set too deep , owing to the extra graip at one or both ends, digging as quantity of earth which the forks have much as gives the horses quite space to displace, a considerable number more enough to turn easily.

of the potatoes are covered than if it is

RAISING POTATOES.

set a little shallower, while the difference helps considerably to steady working, for 121 in draught will be not a little. Adjusting the Sock . - Several causes in coming than another, the whole work a ca influence the depth at which the sock isif br ourt dsme skng tillbeifa li thttelebalo ghtmatoy at eter a staanti s moves, all of which should be well under

ovided, whnoer interruption womo uld ha stood by the person working the digger pr beve eas, had a few re en full arcu e rr oc ed;. Second Harrowing . It is customary

The principal are the depth at which it is set, the depth of the drills in which the digger is for the time working, and the condition of the sock itself . After the sock has been set at any particular depth by the lever regulating it, the height at which the wheels stand thereafter regulate the level at which it moves.

to harrow the land and gather all re maining potatoes as as possible after being dug. But if the work is thodically per at first carefully and me soon formed , this second harrowing and gathering, at present prices of labour

If the

exgpean pota nsdes. gaIf anwe l nohat rrpaowy in d ve , wil ho cond r,toaesse th, ering are to take place, they should be done every evening, either by the horses from the digger and the whole company drills require the sock set at less depth of gatherers, or by a separate pair of horses and another company of gatherers. than where the drills are more flat. gheploughed up, thecrop twen spacha eenhith e sbebe drills will be deeper ; and the diggerwheels getting deeper compel the sock to go also deeper, so that high -ploughed

Again , a new sock , broad and thin on In the potato-digging season the weather the face, goes to a much greater depth is so uncertain that it is impossible to

with the lever set at any particular say what a day or night may bring forth ; place than one badly worn, short and and potatoes in dug land which have subj

ected to rain or frost are rarely thick on the face. A worn sock may been work satisfactorily enough on soft easy afterwards worth the cost of collecting. land, such as moss or sand, while it As potatoes collected after the harrows

would be of no use in a drier, harder , usually contain a large proportion of an firm so d

er

il .

invariably bedaput into a pit by ou ld The most of the potatoes which have sh thil smem ey alse l, di lvse so , we eyd rarema es.ased,Than lygekedepones been raised by the digger and buried th will , as a rule, be found a little out from as the ordinary crop. Weather and Digging. – Potato-dig the point of the sock. The centre of erefore move along ging should not be persevered with the harrow should th there. Contrary to expectation, the finer during very showery weather, nor when and more sandy a soil is, the more pota- the land is wet. A large proportion of toes will be left in it after the digger. the potatoes are left unseen in the land The reason for this is that the unseen when the soil is damp and adhesive ; potatoes are covered with a very thin and those tubers which are collected in film of soil, which in great part would a wet condition seldom keep well. have rolled off and exposed the tubers had the soil been rougher. Adjusting Force of Labour.- Where where the potato -digger has On farms Pl ouucghedDi od the labour of one person depends so not been intr or inong. fields very , gg

much on that of some other, as in raising steep and otherwise unsuitable for the potatoes by th digger, it is of th utmost importance theat each class ofe labour should bear a certain due proportion to all the others. As many gatherers should

單

1

digger, the aid of a plough of one kind or other is usually invoked in lifting potatoes. mould -board plough is used ; in others,

.

Innas e ngle furrow swing be provided as will keep the digger it is the ordi ryomsi cases the double

moving at a moderate, steady pace ; and as many carts should be employed as easily remove the potatoes when collected ; while great care should be taken that each gatherer is provided with a sufficiency of baskets. Plenty of baskets

plough ; in others, the American chill plough ; while not a few employ specially fitted “ potato-ploughs.” Potato -plough . The " potato -plough may be an entirely distinct implement, or an ordinary plough fitted with a potato

1

1

1

RAISING POTATOES.

I 22

raiser — a series of iron or steel fingers duced by different makers. The cutter running out from one or both sides of of the plough should be removed, so as to avoid injury to the potatoes. the body of the plough. Digging by Drill - ploughs . - If it is The specially fitted ploughs are cer-

tainly superior to the ordinary ploughs for desired toraise potatoes by the double lifting potatoes, yet it is generally agreed mould -board plough, every second drill that if a separate implement is to be should be split by it, the mould -boards procured for this work, that implement being set much wider than for drilling, should be the potato -digger proper. or removed altogether, and the potato The original form of potato-raiser at- prongs put on. Each gatherer has a

tached to an ordinary plough, by Mr J. section to collect, in the same way as

Lawson, Elgin, is shown in fig. 548 ; but behind the digger. And when nearly a numerous modifications have been intro- half -day's work has been done by splitting

d

a Narrow end of brander.

Fig. 548. - Potato- raiser attached to a plough . e Upper angle of brander. d Lower angle of brander.

every second drill, the ploughman then ing, although much more speedily done begins and splits the remaining drills. All

than the forking of drills which have

drills which have been split during the not been split, entails a good deal of day should get a double stroke of the har- extra labour.

rows before night, the gatherers all the time keeping close up tothe harrows. Small Plough.-If the single mouldboard is used , the ploughman should proceed in much the same way as if he

Improved Digger best. - Where a

proper digger is not available, a plough of some sort should certainly be used to split the drills ; but while" lifting with the plough is a decided step in advance

were to plough four ridges, going along of lifting with the graip or fork, both the one side andback the other until the methods are much inferior to lifting with whole is finished, after which he begins

the improved digger.

another set of drills.

Harrowing. — As soon as the gath erers have collected their potatoes, a harrow should pass along in the same manner as was described in connection

STORING POTATOES .

Supplies of Early Potatoes. - For

merly it was necessary to store a larger

with the digger ; and any tubers exposed quantity of potatoes for use in winter, by the harrow should be collected before spring, and early summer than is now another drill is turned over by the plough. required. Very early in spring large

The harrowing is a most important part quantities of new potatoes are now im of the operation of potato-raising, and ported from Malta ; and as soon as one which should not be neglected, either these are exhausted, supplies come in when the plough or the digger is used.

from Jersey and early districts along the

Forking after Ploughs.-In many cases it is the practice to further scatter with the graip the drills which have been split by the plough. This makes more thorough work, leaving less to be done by the harrows, and making it easier

south coast of England. Then about the middle of June the first Ayrshire crops are generally ready, and this is at least a month, if not six weeks, earlier than

potatoes could be depended on prior to 1860.

Moreover, the nation as a whole

work for the gatherers. But this fork- would appear to be using fewer potatoes

1

STORING POTATOES.

and more bread than formerly.

And

123

wide are made, running as nearly south

when new potatoes can be obtained at by west and north by east as the lie of anything like moderate prices, they are the land will permit.

If the land is not

preferred to old ones which have been thoroughly dry in the bottom , or is very stored.

clayey, no trench should be made, the

Potatoes more difficult to Preserve. potatoes being placed on the surface and

-For some reason or reasons not more very piled up into long conical heaps, the sides

well known, potatoes are now of the heaps being kept as steep as pos difficult to store successfully than they sible. If the subsoil is naturally dry and

were prior to the middle of the present

open, a trench from 6 to 12 or 14 inches

century. Then they could be stored safely deep may be dug out between the two in pits at least double the capacity which guiding lines. The earth taken out can be trusted now ; and in what were should be neatly packed on the sides, then called potato - houses, they were a considerable slope being given to the

easily preserved many feet deep, while sides of the trench. Into this trench the potatoes are now they would spoil if kept two or three feet deep. emptied from the carts as they come Field Pits. - Where large quantities from the field, the heap carefully and

have to be handled, storing in pits in neatly built as high as possible by the open field is the easiest, cheapest, hand. and most satisfactory plan at the present This pit is known as the long or pris day. A situation is selected near the matic pit, and is shown in fig. 549. farmhouse, if possible, having a dry Conical Pit. - A conical pit is often

bottom and free - working soil. There preferred for storing small quantities of shallow trenches, from 27/2 to 3 feet potatoes. It is well adapted for small k g

.

Fig. 549.-- Conical and prismatic potato -pits. edh g Prismatic potato -pit.

abc Conical pit of potatoes. b Apex of cone.

ca Diameter of cone and inner

edge of treuch round the cone ,

dh Side of pit. de End of pit . fg Crest of pit. i k Straw chimneys.

farms and cottars ; the prismatic being between the straws. Earth is then dug used for storing larger quantities. with a spade from the ground as a trench A common method of forming a conical around the pit, the inner edge of which,

pit is as follows: if the soil is of ordinary fig. 549, being dug as far from the pile tenacity, and not very dry, let a small spot of its surface be made smooth with the spade. Upon this let the potatoes, as taken out of the cart, be built up by hand in a conenot exceeding

of potatoes as to allow the covering of straw and earth to be put upon it, about one foot. The first spadeful is laid upon

the lower edge of the straw, round the circle of the heap the earth being

two feet in height, which height will chopped fine, and clapped down with the 6 feet. The potatoes are then covered spadeful of earth is thus taken from the

give the diameter of the cone atits base spade, to keep out frost. Spadeful after thick with dry clean straw — not drawn. trench and heaped on the straw , until the

Drawn straw is apt to let in the frost entire cone is formed, which is then

124

RAISING POTATOES .

beaten smooth and round with the back pit and closed on the sides, generate more or less heat, and give off moisture of the spade. The apex of the cone is about 3 feet which passes out at the top and through

3 inches in height, and the diameter about 8 feet. The trench round the pit should be cleared of earth, and an open cut made at its lowest side to allow

the earth on the sides. For this reason it is never advisable to heavily cover up

surface-water to run freely away.

may appear to be ; for should a mild

potatoes when first brought in from the

field, no matter how well ripened they

When the soil is naturally dry, the pit autumn and winter follow , premature

may be dug out of the solidground a growing, if not worse, will be almost spade-depth , and the height of the heap sure to follow . Seed Pits. — If the potatoes are in will be proportionally less. But unless the soil is as dry as sand or gravel, po- tended for seed, the pits should be made tatoes should be piled upon the surface specially narrow , in order to reduce pre mature sprouting to the lowest limit of the ground. Covering Pits. — The heap or pit is possible. Storing Wet Potatoes.-Any po covered with a little straw. Along the ridge of the heap on the top of the straw , tatoes which come in wet from passing

should be laid a straight pole from 4 to showers, which are common at this season 6 inches in diameter, and from 8 to 10 of the year, should be put in a pit by feet in length. In stormy weather this themselves, or along with those gathered

pole keeps the straw in its place, and behind the harrows. when the whole heap has been covered wet rarely keep well.

Potatoes stored On this account

with earth and the pole removed, a it is advisable to clear these off as soon narrow gutter is left along the ridge, as possible after the whole crop has been

which serves as an easy egress for any safely secured . Final Covering. - As soon as the heat which may be generated. In putting on the earth the workman begins by whole crop has been raised, a little earth * cutting with his spade along a line set a should be laid along the ridges of the foot or so from the edge of the straw on the potatoes, after which he removes the

pits, over the top of the straw in the gutter, in order to prevent severe frost

earth from the outside of this line, and from getting access to the potatoes. The packs it on the potatoes, to the depth of sides are then thatched by placing along about 6 inches. them a good covering of straight wheat Ventilating Pits.Small sheaves of

or barley straw , say from 4 to 6 inches

straw are placed along the gutter left by thick. In putting on this straw three the pole after its removal, on each of persons work best together, one on each

which a spadeful of earth is put to keep itthorough in position. This straw provides ventilation, and it, at the same time, keeps out rain and frost until the whole crop is secured, or opportunity

side putting on straw, and another plac ing earth along the centre of the ridge, to hold the straw in position. The straw, if moderately long, and the pit not too large, should meetat the ridge from both

is afforded of covering them more se- sides, where the ends of the one side curely. should be bent down and overlapped by

Instead of leaving a gutter the whole the other, on which a spadeful of earth

way along the ridge, it is the custom in should be placed. When the whole pit some localities to only put in wisps of has been gone over in this manner, earth straw here and there, the rest of the should be placed in spadefuls along the ridge being covered with earth.

Where

the crop is thoroughly matured and firmly

bottom ends of the straw. It will be remembered that the work

grown , such a provision against heating man , in putting earth on the pit, was told is probably ample enough ; but in many

to keep at least a foot from the edge of

seasons and in many circumstances, par- the potatoes when digging the trench on as to get earth ticularly with late varieties, it is not the outside of the pit, so ng to cover it. This coveri of earth was sufficient. Heating. — As a rule, even the best supposed to be only 6 inches thick, so

ripened potatoes, after being put in the that at the base of the side of the heap

STORING POTATOES .

shoulder remains, 6 inches broad, after stack, the ropes running lengthways and 12

the covering of earth has been put on. crossways, being fixed to wooden pins5 On this shoulder the bottom ends of the driven into the sides.

Al this troubl

l e thatch rests, and also on it the workmanis, however, quite unnecessary, as the now places a continuous row of spadefuls former plan is equally as secure, and of earth to fix the thatch. In even the costs much less. Many persons also

most exposed situations, these three rows put on a second covering of earth before of earth, one along the ridge, and another putting on the thatch . This also is un at each side, and a third at the bottom , necessary, unless where thatch is very will be sufficient to keep the thatch in scarce and labour plentiful, as 6 inches of position, while the work is speedily and straw, with 6 inches of dry earth under, cheaply done. chosedt .than 18 inches reepeart A double quantity of straw and earth of moth willbake ouht un reatfr being on the ridge, rain never enters It is of great importance that the there, but following the straw , runs off straw should be put on as early as pos

into the gutter alongside the pit, the sible after the crop is stored , and before bottom of which should always be lower the earth on the sides has become soaked than the lowest layer of potatoes in the with rain, as in the damp stage it takes !

pit .

Potato- pits are occasionally thatched dry.fros much more readily than when in much the same manner as an ordinary inShawts as Thatch . — Instead of put

SAR

Fig . 550.— Potato- separator.

ting on ropes or earth over the top of the thatch, some farmers spread a thick covering of potato - shaws. This practice has become pretty common since the “Champion ” potato with its rank shaws introduc ; but it has not much to wa rescommend ited, as the cost of putting on and taking off the shaws is considerable. Owing to their open nature , the shaws themselves keep out little frost, and the

earth or straw under them , when once wet, is not very easily dried. Frosted Potatoes.— “ When potatoes

are exposed to the action of frost, it is well known that they become soft, and

acquire a sweet taste. This taste is suc ceeded by a sour taste, owing to the

rapid evolution of acetic acid , and the root soon passes to putrefaction . From the experiments of Einhoff we learn that

SOWING CEREALS IN AUTUMN .

126

the sugar is formed at the expense of the of such an appliance as the improved mucilage, for the other ingredients were separator shown in fig. 550, the work is

found in potatoes sweetened by frost in

greatly facilitated.

At one operation

the usual proportion. He considers this this machine, made by Penny & Co.,

sweetening process as connected with the Limited, Lincoln, separates potatoes into three sizes - small, seed , and marketable vegetative powers of the root. ” 1 Potato - separator. — The sorting of —and riddles away the soil. It is made

potatoes into different sizes, suitableand in different sizes, by which from eight unsuitable for marketing, is an operation to fifteen sacks may be separated in an of considerable importance. By the use hour.

SOWING CEREALS IN AUTUMN. SOWING WHEAT.

fig. 551, made by Coleman & Morton, Chelmsford .

After the land has been

“ How ceaseless is the round of rural harrowed down, any root-weeds brought labour ! ” No sooner does the farmer to the surface should be removed, but secure the present than he begins pre- the surface -weeds will soon wither.

parations for a future crop. The plough,

Ploughing for Wheat. - The land is

indeed, is often at work before the har- then feered, to be gathered upinto ridges; vest is finished .

and if thoroughly drained, or naturally

Land intended for autumn or winter dry, one gathering-up makes a good seed wheat is ploughed as early in autumn as bed ; but wet land, to lie in a good state all winter, should be twice gathered up. possible. Fallow Wheat. — Bare fallow, as we The second gathering-up should not be

immediately after the first, for a short But any portion of land which interval should elapse to allow the land

have seen, is now much curtailed in extent.

has been fallowed during the summer is to subside, which rain will accelerate. the first to be prepared for wheat. It Should the fallow have had the dung

has perhaps received a dressing of dung, spread upon the surface and ploughed in with feered ridges in gathering up, the feering left half-ridge at the sides of the field, now that the land is gathered up for the seed -furrow, is converted into one whole ridge.

Grubbing for Wheat.-— But a prac tice has come into use, since the intro

duction of the grubber, that possesses

Fig. 551.- Iron harrows.

advantages on strong land in a dry state, which is, to put the seed -wheat into the ground with the grubber, upon gathered upridges that covered in the dung of the fallow, and to finish the work with one double-tine harrowing along the ridges. When the grubber is so used, the land

which may have been drilled in. If so, the is gathered up in finished ridges in the first operation is levelling the drills which fallow, as grubbing cannot alter the form cover the dung by harrowing them across of ridges. with one double turn of the harrows - of

Advantages of Grubbing.- When a

iron harrows such as shown in figs. 267 tough waxy clod arises on ploughing

or 268, p. 196, Divisional vol. iii., or in strong land, rather wet below, for a seed-furrow, or when unsettled weather 1 Thomson's Org. Chem . — “ Vege.," 481 .

threatens, the grubber will keep the dry

1

SOWING WHEAT.

ameliorated soil upon the surface, and in Scotland. Drilling has not extended 127 cons ac

celerate the seed -time

iderably. was at one time expected . New or old Seed . — The land being as more common in England.

It is

Water - courses. The finishing pro thus prepared for the seed, it is quite possible for a part of the new crop to cesses of harrowing and of water-furrow th

be rashed out for seed in time for ing are the same as in spring ; but as sowing in autumn ; but those who sow water is more likely to stand upon the

early cannot procure new seed, and must land in winter, gaw -cuts must be made

use the old. But although the new crop were secured in good time to afford seed for sowing in autumn, it is better to sow old wheat than new. New wheat germinates quicker than old, but is more easily affected by bad weather and insects ; and consequently its braird is neither so thick nor so strong as from

with the spade in every hollow on the surface and across head -ridges, even on thoroughly drained land , to quickly carry off large falls of rain.

Harrowing .– As regards the harrow ing, it is right to leave on wheat -land in winter a round clod upon the surface. Such clods afford shelter to the young

old wheat — that is, from seed of the plants from wind and frost, and, when

preceding year ; for very old wheat may gradually mouldered by frost, also in weak vi

ened in tality even in crease the depth of the loose soil. have been Frost throwing out Plants. — Wher the stack, or been much injured by the weevil in the granary . barr tumn ttow into Time for Sowing . – Some farmers sow au ace til erseditsto suarffin a , raisin ha land ever th in

wheat on fallow early in September ; and crust, and frost heaves it up in spring where there are much fallow and strong like fermented dough, by which the land this is a proper season to begin. The plants are raised up with the soil, and, objection is, that should late autumn and when the earth subsides in a thaw, left

early winter prove mild, the plant will upon the surface almost drawn out by Thorough - draining is the become too rank before cold weather the roots. sets in to check its growth. October only safeguard against rain and frost is considered by many the best period acting in this manner upon a fine sur for sowing winter wheat, as the risk of rank growth is avoided .

face in winter.

Variety to Bow . — The varietie of to Wgrhow wheat,isannadtuyeratllisy so what en sogh ft st me obng and weetn belalondw, that able ou to make it prro the plant will be thrown out, ribbing with impossible here to indicate which is the the small plough will give a deeper hold best for a particular locality. Upon in- to the plant than common ploughing. ferior soils it is safest to sow a red wheat, The wheat is sown broadcast over the which, although realising a lower price in ribs, and harrowed in with one double the market, will yield a larger increase. tine along them. Ribbing is not suit In this matter the farmers in the differ- able on fresh -ploughed land, as even the ent localities must exercise their own small plough would go too deep, and judgment, giving due consideration to make the drills too wide ; nor is it advis the opinions of farmer in the neigh- able on land that hapr not been ridged up. bourhood as to the variseties best Another mode of s ev suited enting the throw to the locality. white wheat well suited to be sowns in autumn are now so numerous that it is

Pickling and Sowing . – Wheat sown fe dges thte oflawh e se ndeainttoonrisof st ed to nd,w isthfir iner t , laso g ou in autumn is pickled in the same manner broadcast between the feerings, plough sp Se 19 ri so e 0 ng tha p. wn in , . t as Divisional vol. iii . the seed in with a light furrow with the un

Having time to push down a tap-root coha ed ntersu d roug h all . rfac plouan mmrr onowso avewith and to tiller, wheat is sown thinner in De winggh,- an frdomle14 ep to e134 inche autumn than in spring. See p. 190 , Divisional vol. iii . deep — is regarded by many as the surest Wheat Roll may be sown broadcast, drilled , preve ing . — Rolling wheat in autumn is ntive and dibbled in autumn as in spring rarely prac. tised, except to consolidate Broadcast sowing is still most common soft land. In reference to this point, a

SOWING CEREALS IN AUTUMN .

128

writer says : “ Wehave for the last three seasons rolled nearly the whole of the autumn-sown wheat when a favourable opportunity could be obtained, making the surface perfectly smooth and fine.

through the work expeditiously, and keeping the aerated soil upon the sur face. But on strong soil, not thorough drained, and in a comparatively flat state, grubbing is not the best preparation for

The old idea of rough lumps lying here wheat after beans, because the seed is and there being of advantage for shelter, apt to rot and the soil become sour. Grubbed soil may require only one is neither more nor less than an antiquated fallacy. After wheat is sown, double tine of the harrows along the

the land cannot be made too firm . We hear some exclaim , “ This is all very well for light land. It is good for all land where a roller can be used without what is called poaching the soil. We have

ridges. Wheat after Potatoes. — The potato

land, having been harrowed after the potatoes have been raised,is feered and gathered up, and sown with wheat. It

tried repeated experiments, and the rolled is better to let the soil subside a little, Let any although the usual practice is to sow the one who doubts give the system a fair wheat as soon as it is ploughed, the trial, and we have no fear but he will season getting late by the end of

portions were always the best. repeat it.

We admit the young wheat-

October.

plants obtain shelter during winter from

Firm Seed - bed for Wheat. — We

those lumps of clay we designate as clods; have frequently recommended the sub but how difficult it is for the young sidence of the land before being sown shoots to run out and make fresh rootlets with wheat, because that plant always on this uneven surface !

It is true the

thrives better in soil in a firm state than

wheat is rolled in spring whenever the

when it is as loose as the plough leaves

season will permit ; but these clods are

it .

The effect of subsidence is best ob

pressed down and for a time retard this, tained by employing the presser-roller and check the tillering power of the plant. The autumn-rolled wheat requires only to be harrowed or hoed in spring. These observations are made" from a three1 years' trial of the system .'

A firm

( figs. 269 and 270, pp . 199 and 200, Divisional vol. iii . ), which follows the

plough in every third furrow, and com presses the soil effectually. Wheat after Grass . — To a large ex

seed -bed is unquestionably, as we have tent wheat follows grass and clover in already pointed out, beneficial to wheat. the rotation. In this case, however, the

But so are surface clods in winter and sowing is usually deferred till spring -- see The clods lying on or in the p . 199, Divisional vol. iii. Farmers are surface cannot possibly prevent fresh naturally reluctant to plough up grass rootlets pushing their way into the soil land so early as would be necessary to per around them . mit of sowing wheat in autumn or winter. spring.

Wheat after Beans.—The bean -land

is the next sown with wheat in autumn ; and the land occupied by summer tares,

Manuring Wheat. Enough has already been said on this subject — see

“ Manures and Manuring ,” pp. 89-185, or other summer forage crop, if in the and “ Manuring Wheat,” p . 201 , Divi same field with the beans, is sown with wheat at the same time.

sional vol. iii.

The land is

feered and gathered up and sown when SOWING BARLEY.

the soil has been allowed to subside for a

few days.

Where bean -land is strong and the ridges sufficiently round, a four- horse

Barley cannot stand the winter as wheat does. When the winter is mild and

grubber may be used to make the seed . the spring dry,as in the south of France, furrow instead of the plough. The grub- Italy, and Spain, or where the snow lies ber succeeds in this case very well as far deep all winter, and the sun is powerful

as the wheat is concerned , and it has the immediately after the melting of the advantage in a late autumn of getting snow in spring, as in Russia, Poland, and North America, barley may be sown in 1 The Farmer, 14th Oct. 1808, 482 .

winter.

Wherever the winter consists

SOWING RYE .

of alternate snows and thaws, and the of the harrows finishes the surface, 272 early part of spring is wet, as in the bushels of seed being sown per acre. 129 Rye will thrive in drifting sand, and north of England, in Scotland, and Ireland, winter barley is apt to suffer, and will endure the hardest frost . It grows spring-sown is a more certain crop. In very rapidly, and in Germany, where it the south of Europe, barley is grown as is largely grown for bread, it is often food for horses ; but no such inducement housed before the end of June .

exists in this country, where horses are

As an ordinary cereal crop, however, it

better fed on oats .

The 6 and 4 rowed, or square-headed verynoliw migrteow nt. d nexte countr on cu a this inge. barley, is what is termed winter barley ; is Ry ra e for Fo — The valuye anlyd to l Sc sh fo so that the otch bere or bigg ould ture of rye as a rage plant are already be the sort best suited for sowing in noticed in p. 258, Divisional vol. iii . For au tumn .

Should you determine to sow barley th ubble of th st crop of the rota eoplary ee st uson as instead of wheat after beans, potatoes, or ti soilcror on esaisndofy telonamso. wnThone ona lifoghrat ge tares — for no one would think of substi- land is feered for casting, is manured mo tuting barley for wheat on fallow — the derately , ploughed, the seed sown at the culture of barley is the same as for rate of from 2 to 3 bushels, sometimes wheat, whether the land is feered for with one peck of rape-seed or one peck ploughing, or when grubbed or ribbed. of winter tares, and harrowed in with Barley may also be sown broadcast by two turns of the harrow . Should any hand or machine, drilled by machine, weeds be brought to the surface by the or dibbled by machine. The finishing harrows, they should be taken off by the operations are also the same as for hand. wheat.

When sown after beans or after po- Apri but if bercfit or for beusgie nn ; in ened wiofll Ma Byl th the ry tatoes, the operations are the same as dela end ofh Ap the stgocof yed etill th ri e k l, wh

for

eat.

Barley that has withstood the winter be t or , but not tooshbare, willcuha funlldobiwn veunea apate prod heav gr st te. The crop ould wh

uces a ier ain than en sown in spring. Barley as a Forage Crop. - For cut ting in spring as a forage crop, barley is sown in autumn, end of August , or beginning of September. enetions a variety of barley Tnhaämeerd mth Siberian or quadrangular naked barley, Hordeum coeleste, which, when sown early, seve ti th th cour

is cut

ral

mes in

e

se of

e

and then

ured until it grows again,

wheen seed th th-estst aloc t.rved before k kbewigillnsbetoweshlloose After the second crop has been eaten bare, the land may be ploughed for a ougharin crou pl woubpl . e Tgr opghofintu gsquoriron bing anip e re ed,e d son g rn both of them along, not across, the ridges the one reversing the other. The har an an ro wi smo t surf

ws

ll

oth he

ace,

y

d

summer, and in the succeeding year yields weeds brought up should be gathered a good crop .

This seems a valuable

and driven off.

If rough , the roller will

forage plant, and its grain is reckoned make the surface ready to be drilled up as good as rye for bread and distillation . for the dung, and the turnip -culture pro SOWING RYE.

Rye is sown for its grain and straw ,

and also for forage . Where land is too light and sandy for wheat, after any tumn ; green crcuop,lt rye may besasown in auwh eat. ure is the me as for and its One gathering -up suffices, and two tines

secuted in the usual way. Green Rye as Manure . -Rye forage ploughed in as manure. “ It isth oftemo n re wash nted they ed, wndn an Ev is er is yssoSy “ofteat happ enry s,"e sa n for food in the spring ; that which is not 66

fed is ploughed in for the root- crop, which the best preparations for roots is onlieghof fri on t able soils. The rye may be allowed to grow 3 or 4 feet high, and

atetach penrfectotlth riad caou ed by plin y ebuhe n tbechai ouggh,a of th | Thäer's Prin. Agric., ii. 430— Shaw and st

Johnson's transl. VOL. III .

which, with a sufficient weight at the end, I

SOWING CEREALS IN AUTUMN .

130

folds over the left side of the beam ,

then passes under it immediately before

SOWING VARIETIES OF CORN TOGETHER.

the skim coulter, and with the weight passing along between the last - turned On the continent of Europe it is not furrow and that to be turned next, an uncommon practice to grow different the chain pulls every straw into its sorts of cereal and leguminous crops to

proper place, and effectually buries the gether. That practice is seldom pur whole without perceptibly increasing the sued in this country, the desire being to have every species of corn free from draught.” 1 admixture fromother sorts. Mixed Flour preferred . - It has been

recommended that more than one variety of wheat should be sown together, be Peas are sown in the field in autumn cause bakers prefer a mixed flour to make SOWING PEAS.

in some parts of England. Although good bread. " Many bakers are of this manure is rarely given to peas sown in opinion ; but their object would be better

varieties of wheat mixed spring, it is given in moderate quantity attained were being ground into flour.

to that sown in autumn.

On clean oat-

together on

Increased Yield from Mixed Va stubble the manure, 8 to 10 cart-loads to the acre, should be spread on the surface, rieties.It is quite correct in theory to and ploughed in with the common plough. expect enlarged yield by sowing different In every third furrow the seed is sown varieties of corn together, since different

with the bean drill-barrow. The plough- varieties of plants have different habits ed surface should have two tines of the of growth. The theory is confirmed by harrow , to close the openings in the growing cereals and legumes together. Irregular Ripening. – But practice ploughing and protect the seed from frost. The

experiences the difficulty of selecting the in spring, and the land is worked, cleaned, same time. This might be overcome, and manured again for sowing wheat but the forced conjunction of varieties crop ripens earlier than when sown varieties which attain maturity at the

upon it in autumn. The after-culture might not produce the best result. To and harvesting are the same as for peas avoid disappointment , it would be better sown in spring not to attempt the combination. Such a course of cropping as this selMeslin.— The most common mixture dom affords any advantage to the farmer. grown on the Continent is wheat and When the soil is light enough for peas, rye, for bread, and is called meslin . Flat

it is better to take a green crop after the barley and oats are grown together, the stubble, such as turnips or mangels ; oats predominating, and both are said to

and where the soil is strong, beans are a give a large yield. Some persons add much better crop.

spring rye to their mixture on light soils. German Practice. — Thäer mentions In certain parts of the north-east of Scot

a practice in a few places in Germany, where “ the farmers are in the habit of covering a field sown with peas with a layer of straw , and then leaving the peas

land a small extent of meslin or “ mas lach ” —— in this case, perhaps, oats, bar ley, and rye - was at one time grown, to produce meal for use on the farm . The

to make their way through it, to vege- practice, however, has been abandoned. tate .

By this means the weeds are all

In the south -west of Scotland three

stifled , the soil kept moist, and those fourths or seven -eighths of oats and one stems which fall to the ground prevented quarter or one-eighth of beans are some from rotting. Where there is a plentiful

times sown together, the mixture being

supply of straw this may be done with called “ mashlam . ” The produce is now advantage, and the straw will afterwards generally used as food for horses, but " 2 be available as manure .

was formerly a common article of human food.

Jour. Eng. Agric. Soc., ii. 218, xix. 85. * Thier's Princ. Agric., ii. 466 - Shaw and Johnson's trans ) .

Legumes and Cereals. — The most

common mixture of cereals and legumes is that of oats and vetches, which makes

PLANTING POTATOES.

131

good food for cattle when prepared with indicates a similar habit ofgrowth. To

the straw -cutter, whether the crop be fill up the spaces in the Hopetoun oat, allowed to ripen, or mown in a green other varieties are sown with it in certain state. Both barley and spring wheat proportions, according to situation and are also sown with vetches.

Peas in

thenature of the soil — and the compound

small quantities are associated with crop is superior to that of either by itself. Whatever varieties of oats are sown to spring wheat, and the quantity of wheat, it is said, is not thereby diminished. On gether, they should all ripen at the same sandy soils peas are associated with time, otherwise the sample of one or other spring rye. On calcareous, clayey, and will be deteriorated .. meagre soils, it is usual to sow beans J. Finnie, Swanston, near Edinburgh, gives the following results of his experi amongst oats. A mixture of beans, vetches, and oats ments :

is grown together for green food for cattle, and goes by the name of beans. It is cut when the seeds begin to form , and in some countries the horses are en

tirely fed on it. The character of the mixture is determined by the nature of the soil. In clayey soils the beans are

increased in quantity , and in thelighter soils more vetches are sown. Vetches are also mixed with buckwheat when the

crop is to be cut in a green state . Mixed Oats . - Some farmers in Scot

land sow different varieties of oats to-

Bushels,

Potato -oats alone produced, on i acre

59

Hopetoun Early Angus

52 62

Kildrummie

Grey Angus

62 61 56 51

Sandy --seed changed

49

Sandy -- seed unchanged .

45

Dun

Blainslie

5 of Hopetoun and I of Kildrummie

produced , on i acre

5 of Hopetoun and i of Sandy 5 of Hopetoun and i of Early Angus 5 of Potato and i of Early Angus 5 of Potato and i of Sandy .

68 64 61 53 53

gether. The practice probably originated in some varieties having occupied the ground too sparsely. The Georgian oat, It thus appears that mixtures with the

for example, always came up thin, what- Hopetoun oat produced larger crops than ever quantity of seeds were sown ; and did the Hopetoun alone ; but with the the Hopetoun oat, though a good variety, potato-oat the results were otherwise.?

PLANTING

POTATOES.

Amongst the expedients suggested for and, in Scotland, too short time inter evading the potato disease was planting venes between the harvesting of the the sets in autumn. The plan, how- corn crops and bad weather in winter to ever, has been only partially tried. permit the land to be sufficiently cleaned . Autumn Planting unsuitable. Hence very few cases occur in which

Planting potatoes in autumn cannot be the stubble can be manured in October practised everywhere nor extensively for potatoes, which occupy so important anywhere. Potatoes are not only a green

a position as a green crop.

This is

but a fallow or cleaning crop, and a perhaps to be regretted, for in the green crop being taken after a crop of majority of cases where autumn plant

corn, the stubble of the corn crop is not ing was tried it seemed to check the in a fit state to receive manure before

disease.

undergoing the process of cleansing by Method of Autumn Planting.– the plough , the harrow , and the grubber, Potato -planting in autumn is the same as the land for a fallow crop ought to be ; as in spring ; but there will not be time to stir the land as much .

The stubble

1 Thäer's Princ. Agric ., ii. 486-89 - Shaw and Johnson's trans ).

2 Trans. High. Agric. Soc., 1850 , p. 316.

SUBSIDIARY FARM CROPS.

132

should be cross - ploughed or grubbed sets in autumn. Small potatoes answer to a considerable depth.

Harrowing well, and save time in cutting.

The

with a double tine brings up any weeds whole potatoes should be planted in the there are, and these should be gathered drill at from 10 to 12 inches asunder. off. If the land is first cross-ploughed, the grubber may follow , to cut the fur rows in pieces, if there be time for that

Water -channels.

Much attention is required at this sea

efficient operation ; but if not, the land son to prevent water collecting and lying should be drilled up in the double way, on the surface. After any crop is com mitted to the ground, surface-channels in preparation for the dung.

The after operations are the same as in leading into theadjoining ditch or out spring.

fall of the field should be cut with the

Seed . — Many think it advisable to use spade, wherever there is the least chance whole potatoes for seed instead of cut of water standing for a time.

SUBSIDIARY

FARM

CROPS.

As the times change it is necessary fruit, and flowers is combined in one that farmers change with them, not only establishment, and to this system of in their tastes and manner of living, but farming a profitable adjunct is a dairy.

also in their practices in cropping land. The cows composing it can get almost The time was when even turnips and all the year round a supply of green

potatoes were garden -grown crops, and stuff very suitable as food, which would

the time has arrived when many other scarcely pay for its cartage to a more crops, at present known as garden crops, distant dairy, and which is too valuable might be successfully and advantageously for manure, and as such is often difficult to plough under.

cultivated in the field .

For this purpose imperfectly grown kale, cabbages, cauliflower, broccoli, and The decline in the prices of ordinary Brussels sprouts are available almost farm products has brought into notice in through the entire year. Then carrots Fruit, Vegetables, and Flowers.

certain districts a new class of farmers, and parsnips, unfit for table use, make who, instead of entirely devoting their good food for cows, and their leaves, land and means to the production of which are very bulky where a heavy crop

grain and beef or mutton, have centred is grown, are much relished by cows, and

their attention on vegetables, fruit, and weight for weight appear to be as valu in some cases flowers, for the use and able as turnips. In the culture of tur adornment of the dwellers in city, who nips for table use, as well as of such

have no facilities for the growth of such, other plants as beet, peas, and beans, but are able and willing to pay good there is also always a considerable prices for them. The area under these quantity of what would otherwise be crops is largely on the increase in this waste food, which can be turned to good account through the medium of milk .

country.

Vegetable culture, as a rule, is exten

COWS. Then in the growth of such sively carried on only in the vicinity of crops there are plots of land which are

some populous centres.

Fruit is easier bare at a seasonof the year when it is

of transit than vegetables, and may be unsuitable to put these under any of the cultivated anywhere, where the soil, cli- regular crops, and which may be profit mate, railway facilities, and supply of ably utilised in growing tares for the manure are suitable ; while the same cows. Tares, with the winter and spring may be said of flowers. varieties, form a very accommodating and Dairying and Market - gardening valuable crop for such circumstances.

- Very often the growth of vegetables. They do not necessarily occupy the

VEGETABLES

.

ground for any great length of time, and the land being thereafter sown with wheat 1 33 they generally do well on heavily man- or other suitable crop. ured land.

br fine coti untry. la For these and many other reasons the climAat hs e an esumofn thPl ut Irge th eadt growth of market- garden crops should, of cabb ages, to standngov ernthe ewinter,r if possible, be always combined with are planted in August or the first week dairying. And unless there are circum- of September. These are generally put stances of an exceptional character, the on land which has carried a crop of win class of dairying most suitable will be the ter onions, or other crop which is early production of milk, and the sale of it cleared off. This class of the land is fresh from the cow.

This system of combined dairying and on or ha lyomgrub plbe oudghed inly edsligsehtld indg atrrow all,ed,bean market-gardening has been pursued ex- all de weeds removed . Plants put in to this tensively and with success by Mr John firm land stand a severe winter much Speir, Newton Farm , Glasgow, and to better than where planted on lately him we are indebted for the following moved soil. notes on the culture of subsidiary farm All the manure this crop gets is a good crops.

dressing of nitrate of soda or sulphate of VEGET

ABLES .

ammonia, as soon as growth has begun in the spring

Cabbages. Sabb voys. When the farm lies within easy carting same ascuof ca uach lly thase e, voanyd iseqmu ltta urthti ofs thareage sa eeon distance of the centre of consumption, easyTh. e Plan usually made at cabbages are about the first crop that intervals from spring to midsummer, will be attempted by the ordinary far- the later plantings generally following mer, who contemplates turning the whole some early cleared spring or winter crop. Around Dublin they are grown to an or part of the produce of his farm into market - garden crops. Culture .— The culture of cabbages for ti obab areusprext ly the heaviest cabbage enon ormo ent itai table use differs very little from the cul- eating people in. BrTh e e nDu; blwhinilepolapurgla ture of the ordinary cow cabbage. The quantities are also annually exported to Ma Li nc Gl verpool, hester, and asgow, table cabbage being smaller, a slightly different manner of drilling has to be Bristol. adopted . Table cabbages are most in demand a cropof pota eaer rlsy ar farm outoes,Duwh blic inh is cleared early in the season . An endeavour off Th ineJune an d Julynd n . The landgrisow the first should therefore be made to get the immediately planted with savoys, whic h crop forward as quickly as possible. form good heads by the New Year, thus Quickl grow cabbages are also much allowing the land to be cleared in time more cryisp, annd less tough an d leathery for any spring-planted crop. than those more slowly grown, and thus

to hasten growth they should be well supplied with manure .

Caulif

lowers, dc. Gr eagrrlee When the plants are one- uaird grown , be Inplstaneateddeeofafns,tesarvoan y nspota ka crop mais orto ys, y foll clea sh ow le ve Th cust

they ould get from one to two cwt. of nitrate of soda per acre, which will

red off.

is

om is

ed

ry

largely around Belfast, and on some of

keep them green and crisp till ready for the earliest farms along the Ayrshire cutting.

dertmahwndar, ds. Second Growth.- If spring -planted ar waom andGrofeetensn ys Gi inrvfai coeas alfr anr no and cut early, say in June or July , the give t,a good return per acre.

plants throw out a large quantity of

Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, and broc

second growth , which in almost any coli resemble the cabbage and savoy season amounts to a considerable bulk very much in culture ; and in manure

This second growth is very they all have much the same require suitable as food for sheep or milk - cows- ments.

by autumn .

134

SUBSIDIARY FARM CROPS.

should be provided for each cutter, into Carrots, Parsnips, anel Beet. which to put the selected roots. A cart Carrots, parsnips, and beet-root may generally goes behind and empties each also be grown on any farm where the

basket as it becomes full, the extra

surroundings are suitable, and in some baskets being filled while the cart is cases a return is obtained which is quite away. astonishing. Their culture is in no way Carrot - leaves. — The leaves should different from that of an ordinary farm be kept clean and thrown into heaps green crop, unless that with carrots, and behind the baskets, in readiness to be occasionally with the others, two rows carted to the cattle and sheep at the This of course farm . All classes of cattle are exception are sown on one drill.

requires a special machine for the pur- ally fond of these leaves, and thrive well Carrots succeed best on sand or upon them . moss, parsnipson loam or clay, and beetGrowing and Heating in Pits.— root on any free soil, which, however, It is of the utmost importance that the must be in the very highest state of cul- leaves of carrots be cut off as near to the pose.

tivation and in a good climate.

Further crown as possible.

If such is not done,

information as to the culture of carrots the roots grow much quicker in the pits, and parsnips will be found in Divisional heat is thereby generated, and the whole vol. iv., pp. 384-386 .

in a very short time becomes a mass of

putrefaction. Storing Carrots. Carrot-pits. — The pits in which car Liability to Rot.- Of all the root rots are stored should never be so large crops of the farm or garden, carrots are as potato-pits, from 2 feet to 214 feet

Unless wide being quite large enough . The sides should be as steep as possible, so too tender to be allowed to stand out all as to keep them thoroughly dry, and at winter ; and in pits (more particularly in first they should not be very heavily wet or mild winters ) they are often ex- covered. In other respects the pitting tremely difficult to keep till May or June. is much the same as has been recom A little mould may be all that is noticed, mended for potatoes. Carrots, however, with an odd soft carrot here and there, require more ventilation, and must on and in a couple of weeks after the whole no account be pitted wet.

the most difficult to preserve .

under exceptional circumstances, they are

pit may be a mass of pulp.

Where,

In a winter in which there is very

therefore, carrots are grown, their proper little frost, a carrot will keep quite storing is a matter requiring the most sound and fresh lying on the surface careful consideration .

of the ground exposed to wind and

Time of Storing . – Unless in the very rain ; but shut it up in an unventilated earliest districts, carrots are rarely ripe and warm pit, and it will become soft in enough to be stored before the last few a week. As a protection against frost,

days of October or the first week in there is not the same necessity to thatch November. In every case the latter is carrot-pits as potato ones ; but as a pro to be preferred to the former.

tection against rain, thatch is about as

Pulling. – One person should pull the needful for the one as for the other. roots by catching them tightly and close

by the bottom of the leaves, laying them

Onions.

out in rows flat along the top of the

Onions, principally of the Lisbon,

drill in which they grew; while another

Portugal, and Spanish varieties, may

should be intrusted with the selecting also be extensively grown as a farm

and cutting off the leaves. Each pair of crop where manure is plentiful, labour pullers should be provided with a potato- cheap and plentiful, and a market near yraip, with which to dig out any roots at hand. They are sown either in beds the leaves of which may happen to break. or in rows, from 10 inches to a foot Between each pair of those cutting off apart. The crop is seldom ripened in

the leaves, one basket should be provided Scotland, but is pulled up green - there for holding all split, forked, or otherwise being a much better market for onions deformed roots ;while one or two baskets in that stage than later.

FRUIT .

A portion of the crop is often sown in

only one row of these small roots, a con

early autumn. This is cleared off before siderable portion of the land would 13be5 the spring- sown onions are ready to pull , left bare, and would be immediately while they in their turn are removed by monopolised by the weeds. Such tur

the beginning of September to make nips are usually taken to market with room for leeks.

their tops on , the tops being used to tie

Leeks.

them in bundles of a dozen or fourteen .

around London an Leeks are constantly in demand from tiesTurn coun theretu erdstant in ial ipns-toderi ps. ve - Faarmsubs Septem ber till April , when new autumn- large tow rn

arly ther There is by selling turnip- tops , particul some othe sale for the one or the other young sprouts in spring, for

sown onions again come in. thus

a

throughout the whole year. Leeks, owing to their excessive de

use greens in mand for manure , are not so easily grown soups and with meat. as Beans and Be pean asscaannd alPesoas.be profitably as a field crop as onions. There is , however, no great difficulty in cultivating grown where there is a market for them them successfully where the land is in a green state. In most large towns qu

they are bought up in large

clean and in moderate condition .

Manuring. — Probably no crop can ni

antities.

Both are pulled green and sent to market

stand so much forcing with trogenous in hampers or sacks, and sold at so much manures as leeks, so that, whenever they per stone or cwt. The return per acre are not growing to one's mind , a thor- is not generally very high , but the crop ough weeding and heavy dressing of any does not require much manure, and the soluble nitrogenous manure will be sure ground is early cleared for something to bring them away rapidly. Culture. — Leeks are generally sown elsBeans do- best on moderately firm clay in beds or frames , from which they are lane.d thoroughly drained , while peas are afterwards transplanted in the field in more suitable for free -working lands. rows about a foot wide , with about four When grown on a large scale for green inches between each plant in the row . pulling for market, peas In dibbling in the young plants, they staked . The drills are made from 3 to are put as deep in as the size of the

4 feet apart , and the haulm is allowed

are seldom plant will permit, so that when full to grow along the ground , but not to grown they shall have as much of the catch the next row . stalk blanched as possible . It is also found that the plants grow much better

when only a minute quantity of earth is put into the dibble hole after the plant

has been dropped in. When the plants are grown so shallow as to whiten only an inch or two of the stem , they are generally earthed up, to increase much as possible the length of whitase ste

Where climate,FRlaUI nd,T.labour, and rail way facilities are suitable, fruit-growing may also be entered on by the ordinary farmer. If properly conducted it may prove a profitable adjunct to the farm .

m.

Turnips for Table Use.

Strawberries.

coendit Stgh Turnips for table use are also a very brou ratwber ioitn aneas toriaes bear d iesret fru arin e g th suitable crop for growing on most farms quiring least skill for their culture. Their culture is in

They therefore form the fruit most suit

no way different from the ordinary field culture of turnips, except that two rows are generally sown along one drill. This is necessitated by the smallness of the

able for the ordinary farmer to begin

tw andllHamilton een LaInnark th , theydgre,owbe with. rsued rgeelyClpu this fruith of s beeyenoflath t ehava

bulbs and the tops , which , if sown on

by the farmers.

near large towns.

The farms there are all

very more or less devoted to dairying, yet for one drill only, would return small crop per acre . Moreover,a with a distance of six or seven miles along

SUBSIDIARY FARM CROPS .

136

both banks of the river every one has berries, is not so easy of attainment as made a trial of strawberries. that of strawberries, and is not so well Irregular Produce.-A year occurs suited for a farmer holding land under a

every now and again when they give a comparatively poor return ; but on the

short lease.

other hand there are years when an

bushes is a rather costly busi ness, andinstead of only one year being lost before fruit-bearing begins, as with

enormous production is obtained. To such an extent has their culture

Cost of Planting. — The purchase of the young

been carried in this locality, that as strawberries, two, three, or even four many as fifteen railway waggon -loads of may be said to elapse before a very large strawberries have been known to leave a return is obtained, even where the cli

good and the bushes fairly well single station in one day, and yet there mate iswhen put in. are three stations which are all more or grown less fed from this district.

Catch Cropping. – As the rows of

Near Crieff, Dumbarton, and Aberdeen, in Scotland, and in different parts of England, strawberry culture has likewise made rapid progress in recent years.

bushes are, however, generally from 5 to 6 feet apart, a good deal can be made out of the spaces between the rows by growing vegetables. In these spaces turnips, cabbages, cauliflowers,

Planting . — The plants are generally beet, parsley, leeks, and onions may

dibbled in beds in spring, three rows, advantageously be grown ; and if the about 15 inches apart, being allowed to culture of flowers is attempted, these each bed.

spaces form very suitable places for

The Fruit . — The finest of the fruit is the growth of wallflowers, anemones,

sent to market each morning for dessert narcissi, snowdrop, and annuals gener purposes, the remainder being pulled ally. during the day for making preserves.

Disease in Black Currants.— Black

Price.— The preserve -makers gener- currants, when they do yield well, usu

ally arrange at the opening of the season ally bring the highest price of any ber for so many tons from each grower, the ries in the market, not because they

ordinary price of recent years being bear a heavier crop than the others, but from £ 16 to £28 per ton. Few have because of their extreme liability to dis ever been sold at less than £12 per ton, ease . To such an extent has this pest and occasionally the price exceeds £30 prevailed in the fruit -growing districts per ton. of the Clyde, that it has almost killed Duration of Plants. — The plants out every plantation in the locality. yield no fruit worth speaking of the first The disease prevents the formation of year, and are at their best thesecond and blooms, and is caused by a gall - mite third years, after which they deteriorate called Phytoptus ribis, which belongs quickly. Most growers do not crop to the same family as the birch gall them more than four years, after which mite. When once the disease appears, the plantations are ploughed down, and it spreads rapidly, with disastrous re a grain or green crop taken .

sults.

When a plantation has become

The best plants for making a new affected, it is best to root out and burn plantation are yielded by those which every bush, for it will never after be of have been put down the year previous. Labour and Soil. — To enable the

any use.

cultivation of strawberries to be success

This disease does not attack the red and white currant.

fully carried on , a plentiful and cheap

Gooseberries. Gooseberries are oc

supply of labour must be at hand. The casionally troublesome on account of the

carry with the heavy side rather caterpillar, but it does not soilshould lean toThey well it any of the destructive effects of the rarely

than the light. very light soil.

do

on

black - currant disease. Although bad one season, it does not necessarily follow

Bush Fruit.

that it will be bad the one following, while The cultivation of bush fruit, be it it is at all times amenable to treatment. black , red, or white currants, or goose-

In recent years, gooseberries have not

FLOWER

S. been bringing anything like the same large fruit might yet be made to pay in

price in the market 'as formerly, and in

Scotland .

consequence growers are rather chary of making new plantations. From £8 to £12 per ton are common prices for good go

FLOWERS.

oseberries.

The demand fo po plants fo hous

Orchards.

man part

Engl

137

especi

ally In and, y s of in the southern counties, the cultivation of tree-fruit, such as pears, apples, plums, and damsons, is carried on toa large ex-

r tr e decorafution, and cu flmow er fo th s t r e in cr ne an ea ha u ra so c se ls, d s h coration , marriages,d ahomousne,g thpeersdwonelallersdein towns , that there is ample room for the growth of these by those farmers who have a taste for

tent and with good results.

suitablycosinv tuated in regard very limited area of anow to climate, It is only on a cu d er Scot land that the ltivation of large soflil, ans,d ardiesposaler . sant with their growth , In sheltered and early situations, wall or tree fruit for the purpose of sale has been attempted. The largest breadth in flowers may be grown by the acre , and one lot probably centres round the vil- if early or late enough , are sure to give lage of Crossford on the Clyde below a fairly good return . In the middle of Lanark .

Both sides of the river there the season it may often be difficult to

are for several miles devoted to the

sell the wallflowers even at the cost of

cultivation of fruit - trees, which has carriage ; but at the beginning and end been carried on for a very long time. of the season they generally do well . During the days of the old stage -coaches, The same may be said regarding mig. it was a common remark that a hand- nonnette , forget -me-nots, and many other ful of plums could always be gathered flowers of a similar class, which are likely in the season from the trees on the to be grown by the farmer attempting roadside, while the coach passed under- flower - cultivation as an adjunct to his neath them .

There is still a consider-

able extent in plums ; but apples hold the largest share, pears being grown to a less extent . New orchards are being continually planted and old ones uprooted, the new ones being as a rule planted with small fruit in the intervening spaces. Owing to the shelter which the deep and narrow

valley affords, this locality is extremely well suited for fruit, and all the farmers in the valley have more or less of their land under it. Considerable orchards at one time existed in the Carses of Stirling

and Gowrie, but lately these have not been well attended to, and are fast disappearin Fruit importations have considerablg.y checked home planting ; but with due care, a proper selection of varieties, and an increase of the knowledge of the best means of cultivation,

farm .

Bulbs. - Amongst bulbous plants which may be grown for cut blooms , we may

ranunculus as plants which an meem ntone, anedgrwhowol mioo ly,msirof si efabl e naanrcdisth is, are eaiosyn th of th,

which sell well. The great drawback against the culture of such on a more extended scale than most persons have yet attempted, is the enormous first cost of the bulbs. One farmer near Glasgow grows several acres of these bulbs alone, andis generally presumed to be doing well. For sale as plants, the farmer might also grow wallflowers, daisies, pinks, prim roses, &c ., and other flowering plants,

limited quantity of which can profitably Indoor plants cannot be grown witha

be sold in most large towns.

out the aid of glass, and therefore need not be noticed here.

LIVE STOCK IN AUTUMN .

138

LIVE STOCK IN AUTUMN. The treatment of farm live stock in day, according to the supply of grass, the earlier part of the autumn consists the size and condition of the animals, for the most part of a continuation of and the time they are intended for sale. their treatment during summer .

As the

Housing Fattening Cattle . — When

season advances, and a lower tempera- the nights become chilly, these fattening ture prevails, extra attention, both as to animals should be housed in the evening food and shelter, may be necessary or and returned to the pasture next morn

advisable for certain classes of stock. ing. It is a matter of great importance The transition period between the heat for cattle being fattened that they are of summer and the rigours of winter

not exposed to cold wet weather. " Sud

teems with anxieties forthe stock -owner, den changes from heat to cold are par and demands his most careful and con- ticularly detrimental to them , liable not

stant supervision. Neglect at this time merely to check their progress, but to may spoil the results of the whole year.

cause an actual loss of condition .

It is

a good plan, therefore, to begin housing

fattening animals overnight as soon as CATTLE IN AUTUMN .

the chilly evenings set in.

And they

should be early housed for winter, so In the earlier volumes of this work, that they may consume their food in the feeding and general treatment of comfort, and thus be able to turn it to cattle have been discussed so fully that full advantage in the formation of flesh . and fat. here a few sentences will suffice. House - feeding. When taken in We began with cattle in Divisional volume i. ( p. 213), when they were overnight, the fattening cattle may then being housed for the winter months. In receive their cake or other extra food in Divisional volume iv. we left them in the house, in one feed in the morning, or

their summer quarters, mostly on the in a small feed in the evening and a pasture- fields. In completing the blank larger one in the morning, according to thus remaining in the yearly circuit, only the quantity to be given. So long as a few points have to be considered.

the days are tolerably warm, the animals

Food and Shelter.—The chief points will relish a few hours on the fields daily ; to be attended to are the providing of but if the supply of good fattening pas extra food as the supply of pasture be- ture is limited, the house-feeding must

comes insufficient, and of shelter when be liberal, so that the progress of the the weather gets so cold and inclement The different classes of cattle require different treatment, and much also depends on the general character of the season and the

as to render it desirable.

weather at the time.

Fattening Stock. — Cattle that are being fattened, or are intended to be fattened early in winter, particularly those to be sold fat by Christmas, will

cattle may be continuous and sufficiently rapid. Forage Crops for Cattle.Now is

the time when the advantage of a plenti ful supply of forage crops would be felt and appreciated. The grass is falling short, and the turnips are not yet ready: Concentrated food may be had conveni ently in cake and grain ; but for a bulky succulent food, so essential for cattle of

require very careful and liberal treat- all classes, the farmer is often at his ment in autumn.

Most likely they will

wits' end at this season of the year.

have been receiving cake on the pasture Aftermath is often saved for the pur during the latter part, if not the whole, pose, and it suits fairly well. A better of the summer . As the autumn advan plan, however, is to grow a portion of ces, and the supply of grass becomes less,

some forage crop, such as tares, which

the allowance of cake may be increased would be ready for cutting at this time, to 3 lb. , 4 lb. , 5 lb. , or even more per and with which the cattle could be car

SHEEP IN AUTUMN.

ried on till the early turnips are ready for consumption. Stock -owners would

139

“ smearing,” and mating the ewes and rams.

Both are important, and afford

find it advantageous to provide a larger ample scope for the exercise of careful supply of green food than is usually fur- and skilful management.

nished, to carry their cattle from the grazing to the turnip season.

BATHING , SMEARING , DIPPING .

Dairy Cows.—On dairy farms, cows in milk are attended to with great care

Object of Dressing. - One or other

and liberality in the autumn. They are of these operations is necessary to pre · housed overnight as soon as the chilly vent insect attacks, and promote the evenings begin , and in cold wet days health and comfort of the sheep. It is they are not allowed out.

This treat-

a

“ sanitary measure

>

of the utmost

ment is especially desirable for milk- benefit to the fleecy community. Fly and Scab.--During summer and cows ; for it is well known by dairy farmers that, in spite of the most liberal autumn sheep are subject to attacks by

feeding, exposure to cold and wet will the “ maggot- fly ” (Divisional vol. iv. p. 436), and to become infested with A plentiful supply of green succulent various parasites. Chief amongst the

materially reduce the yield of milk.

food for consumption in the house to- latter is the “ ked,” “ keb , ” or “ sheep

wards the end of autumn is as essential tick,” which, if no remedy is applied, for cows as for fattening cattle.

On

increases in size and number as the wool

well-managed farms thisis amply pro grows longer, and inflicts great discom vided by growing tares or other forage fort and injury upon the sheep. Then there is that troublesome contagious

crop..

Dairy cows and fattening cattle are

disease known

as

66 scab ."

This

is

housed for the winter about the same

caused by the presence of insects ( acari)

time.

which burrow in the skin and cause in

Store Cattle. — Young growing cattle tense itching, resulting in the loss of and breeding cows are kept longer on wool and condition in the sheep. To the pasture - fields than dairy cows or prevent or remove these ailments, sheep fattening stock. In average seasons are at various times dressed with or they will need little or no extra food dipped in different kinds of liquid mix until housed for the winter, when the tures. early turnips are fit for consumption. Former Customs. — Formerly it was Still many successful farmers think it a the custom to bathe the sheep on good plan to house these animals on lowland and arable farms, while the chilly wet nights, and give them cut sheep on hill-farms were “ smeared . ” green food or hay in the stall or shed The latter method was preferred for

some time before there is any necessity high-lying farms, because®“ smearing to put them into their winter quarters. tends to keep sheep warmer in exposed

This is assuredly good practice, for it parts, and to render them less liable to promotes the steady progress of growing be affected by changes in the weather. animals, and maintains breeding cows in Bathing and smearing have both to a healthy and profitable condition . Exposing Cattle.- Enough has been

a very large extent given place to

dipping,” yet it will be useful to in said in Divisional vols. i. and ii. as to dicate briefly how these older methods the losses sustained by the imprudent were carried out. exposure of stock. These remarks are Bathing. peculiarly applicable at this season of the year, and may at this stage be perUtensils.- For bathing, or “ pouring ” used with advantage.

as it was sometimes called, the utensils

required are ,-a bathing -stool, such as is shown in fig. 552 ; a tin bottle with a SHEEP IN AUTUMN .

quill or pipe passed through the cork,

or a bath -jug, as in fig. 553; and a tub The two chief events in the autumn or other vessel to hold the bathing

work on sheep -farms are “ dipping " or mixture.

LIVE STOCK IN AUTUMN .

140

Method . — Provided with these, and top of the shoulder, these being parts most likely to be affected by scab , and labourer, the shepherd can proceed. are chiefly the seats of nidi of insects.

with the assistance of a boy or other The sheep being caught, it is placed on its belly on the stool, with its legs passed through the rungs, the head

The shepherd and his assistant will bath The bathed sheep 40 sheep in one da are put into a different pen from the

unbathed. Fig. 554 shows the old style of bathing Keds.

Shortly after bathing, the

keds will be seen adhering to the points of the wool, dead. Keds become most numerous when sheep get from a lean to

a better condition , on change of food, as d

cattle are affected with lice when im

proving in condition on turnips. Hoggs are most liable to keds when getting

rapidly into condition after being weaned, and having a large quantity of wool. Fig. 552. – Bath-stool for sheep. a Seat for shepherd.

a b, a c Sparred frame.

d Widest part of frame.

Bathing for Scab.—When the sheep suffer from scab, the sheds have to be

ee Feet.

made closer, and the shepherd rubs the liquid into the affected parts. More being towards the shepherd, who sits over, in the case of scab some specially

on the end of the stool,a, fig: 552. The strong mixture will be used ; but this shepherd then with his thumbs and fore- will be referred to in speaking of the fingers sheds the wool along the centre bathing or dipping mixtures. of the back from the head to the tail,

and opens the shed with the palms of his hands.

The boy then pours the

Smearing. Smearing is done in a manner similar

liquid from the tin or jug along the to bathing, although the materials used shed, following the shepherd's hands, are different. The smearing mixture from the tail to the head of the consists of tar and butter, made up in sheep.

Other sheds are made, about such proportion as to be sufficiently

3 inches apart, until the whole animal consistent to be readily lifted on the finger of the operator. It is applied in the sheds of the wool by the shepherd himself, who takes from the kit or tub

VD Fig. 553. – Bath -jug.

beside him a portion of the mixture with his fore-finger, and rubs it into the shed. The sheds are made closer than for bath

ing, perhaps an inch or an inch and a quarter apart. The entire body is thus gone over, so that the sheep becomes

enveloped in a close matted covering of wool, tar, and butter.

Smearing Reviving. — The dipping is covered , and from these sheds the process had almost entirely superseded liquid bathes the entire skin of the smearing by about 1885 ; but some sheep.

farmers have again returned to the

The sheep is turned on its sides and its back, to obtain access to these several parts. When the sheep is lying on its back, its legs not being tied, the assistant

practice for wether stocks on exposed hill- ground. The smearing, of course, lessens the value of the fleece per pound, but it increases the number of pounds to

should beware of a kick from a hind -foot such an extent as to partly make up for on the face, or the flask. Some liquor is that. Moreover, many farmers maintain put on the tail-head, scrotum , inside of that with smearing their stock thrive the thighs, brisket, root of the neck, and better, and keep longer clean, while

SHEEP IN AUTUMN .

141

they have fewer deaths than with bath- jury to the sheep from unseasonable

ing or dipping

exposure.

Smearing Clean and Dirty Sheep.

Sheep which are clean — that is, free from skin affection — when smeared are

Dipping. This is the most expeditious and now

not afterwards nearly so liable asbathed almost the universal method of dressing or dipped sheep to contract these ailments. sheep. Process. It is a fatal mistake, however, to smear

The operation of dipping is

sheep suffering from a skindisease such as simple in the extreme. The sheep are “ scab . ”

It will most likely result in either plunged or made to swim through

HI

serious loss of wool, and subsequent in- a specially prepared tub, bath, or tank,

Fig. 554.- Bathing sheep.

containing the dipping liquid, after Wood's admirable treatise on ' Sheep which they are kept on a drainer until Dipping .” 1

the liquid ceases dripping from their

fleeces .

With the old style of baths the sheep had to be lifted both in and out, but

The chief recommendations of dipping, now the baths are so constructed that the

therefore, are cheapness, efficiency, and animals walk into them and swim out. remarkable despatch .

The importance of this improvement is

enforced by Mr Wood, who says : Construction of Dipping-bath.

“ I have constructed several baths of

Dipping-baths of many different pat- the new style on different farms on Mr terns are in use throughout the country. Some are small and movable, others large and permanently fixed . Wood's Swimming -bath . For large flocks the modern swimming-bath is the most convenient. For directions as to

Duncan's estate, but, whilst retaining the essential feature of a swimming - bath, there are not two of them alike, and I

claim but little that is novel in their construction. I have simply adapted their construction to position, circum

the construction and working of a bath stances, and size of Hock ; and if I of this kind, we cannot do better than quote the following from Mr David

1 W. Blackwood & Sons.

Price Is .

LIVE STOCK IN AUTUMN.

142

simply be because I am more familiar

for different numbers of sheep, from our own experience we think the following

with them .

would be approximate sizes. We will

refer to them more than to others, it will

Size of Dipper, and Number of start with a bath 8 feet long, as we think Hands.— “ If we were asked to give an this is the shortest practicable length for opinion as to the length or size ofdipper a swimming -bath. For 200 sheep or under, bath 8 feet, 3 men and a boy. 300

do .

500

do . do .

700 900 I

OO

1 300

do . do . do .

1600 sheep and upwards,

This number of attendants, if the ar-

10 do . 12 do.

4 4

13 do. 4 14 do. 5 15 do. 5

do . do . do .

16 do

6

do . do . do .

18 do.

6

do .

Depth of Bath . “ We have fixed the

rangements are good, is amply sufficient depth of our bath at 4 feet 3 inches in for the work.

We wish it to be under-

the deepest part for black -faced stock.

stood that, though we have named dip- If, however, the stocks are composed of pers of a less length than 12 feet as

the larger varieties, it will be necessary

being capable of dipping the numbers to make the bath a little deeper. We are noted, we prefer them to be not less than 12 feet for the work to be well done in

aware that we are making ours a little deeper than some do, but this both prevents waste of dip and guards the

an autumn or spring day of eight hours. If the sheep are let away to their pastures operators. without keiling' or marking, a less “ Should the ground be tolerably dry number of men might do ; if grease or where the bath is constructed, it may be put deeper, and thereby save a little oil is applied, more will be needed.

Concrete Bath . -_ “ For the benefit of expense in constructing the dripper, as it those who have no opportunity of seeing will be evident that the lower the bath the construction of one of these new is sunk , the less soil or stones will have baths, we will describe one of concrete . to be carted to form the bottom of the Of course it is cheaper and easier to make dripper, if formed of concrete. Whilst them in wood, and the internal size and thus pointing out some advantages of shape must or should be the same ; but sinking the bath, we would advise that where the dipping apparatus is to be a the top on no account be less than 18 permanent fixture, concrete is decidedly inches above the ground - level, as there the best and cheapest. should be a level path or platform on “ We will assume that a complete set each side of the bath 2 feet 6 inches or of bath, dipper, and catching-pen are to 2 feet 8 inches from the top. By thus

be constructed without reference to or allowing the operators to stand nearly hindrance from any building or other upright and in a natural and easy posi obstacle.

If it is possible to utilise any

tion, they will do more work with far

building or part of an existing sheep -fank less fatigue. for this purpose, so much the better.

“ And hence the outsides of the bath

-“ It is of importance in should be free from all abutments in the choosing a site, if it is convenient, to fix space in which the men work, as the upon the slope of a bank, as by that knees are soon made sore by knocking Situation .

means an advantage is gained by placing against these projections. The top also the dripper at the highest point, and

of the walls of the bath should be rounded

thus securing a natural fall into the and made as smooth as possible, to pre bath. We will suppose that they have vent the skinning of the arms. to be constructed on the level ground.

“ All our measurements will be given,

We recommend that the top of the bath assuming that the top of the bath is be about 27/2 feet above the ordinary 2 feet 3 inches above the ground, 2 feet ground-level. This will make the deep- below , and the bath 16 feet long. est part of the bath I foot 9 inches below ,

“ First of all dig out a trench 18 feet

long, 3 feet 6 inches wide, and 2 feet 6

SHEEP IN AUTUMN.

143

inches deep. Now get a joiner to set up groove formed at the top of this gangway, casings so as to form two walls, the out- say about 2/2 inches deep by 2 1/2 inches side faces of which are perpendicular, broad ; and at one or both ends of this and 2 feet 6 inches wide, feet 9 inches groove, holes must be formed through the

high, outside measurement, allowing 6 walls : this is to prevent any rain from inches for floor.

Let standards be set up

finding its way into the bath when not

and the casings nailed lightly to their in use. Of course when busy dripping, inside faces.

To form the inner faces of

these holes must be stopped up, and a

the walls, boards must be set up 8 inches piece of wood dropped into the groove to from the other at the bottom , tapering

save the feet of the sheep. “ We prefer the walls of the bath to inches at the top. Let all the standards be level throughout, for the convenience be firmly fixed, and if light boards are of dropping a light cover over the dip, used, they should not be more than about so as to keep out rain and prevent cattle

outwards to a little under, if anything, 4

30 inches apart, so that the wallsmay be from drinking it. The guards at each true and free from bulging. When the end of the bath are not only as cheaply concrete is filled in betwixt the two formed of boards, but are far more con

spaces thus formed, and the boards taken venient, and in fixing them considerable away, you will have two walls standing stability is lent to the walls. Put down 8 inches thick at the bottom and 4 inches

a light post on each side of the wall

at the top, with a space betwixt them of at the end next the catching pen at a 14 inches at the bottom and 22 inches at

distance of about 3 feet 6 inches from

the top. When the bottom is put in , and the end, and to the inside faces of these

the walls plastered , you will have a bath and the framework of the catching-pen, about 1372 inches wide at the bottom , nail 5/8 or 34 boards, starting nearly the and 211/2 inches at the top. The reasons full height of catching-pen, and tapering for making the walls tapering are, to down, and in a neat style, to the level

reduce the amount of liquor where it is of the bath , terminating at the post. not needed, and to strengthen the walls. Proceed in the same fashion at the “ We prefer that the end wall next dripper end of the bath ; only in that

the gathering or catching pen (gripping case the post must be put about 4 feet “ bucht '), be built square up to within 8 from the end on account of the sloping inches of the top of the side walls ;and gangway. 6 In some instead of the ordinary sloping end of Emptying the Bath . the bath, a stout smooth board should

cases, where it is convenient, a hole is

be firmly fixed, about 2 feet 4 inches made through the wall at the lowest long, and inclining downwards at a part for a plug, in order to empty the sharp angle. By those means the sheep bath when necessary. We have made are plunged into the full depth of the

two in that style ; but unless the slope

tank, getting the benefit at once, and of the ground is very favourable for losing that foothold which they take putting in a drain, we shall not trouble

such vigorous advantage of. This slop- about it again. The bath is but seldom ing board is also a very great check on emptied, and when done, a man or a the violent motion of the dip, and very

smart boy will make short work of that

greatly prevents it from washing out at with a pail. The Dripper.- " Proceeding to form the end with the splashings of the sheep

a dripper, the lower end of the floor

" The floor of the bath is continued should be half an inch above the sloping level for about 9 feet, then a square rise gangway, and will be about 2 feet above takes place of about 12 inches, and a slop . the ground - line.

ing gangway is then formed to within l inches of the top of the side walls ; and all the way up this gangway ridges of concrete should be formed at intervals of about 7 inches, to give foothold to the sheep in walking out of the bath into the dripper. There should be a deep

If it is decided on

grounds of economy to form the floor of the dripper only of concrete and the remainder of wood, the following appears to us to be a good plan, and one we have adopted in forming a dripper we are now engaged upon. The dimensions are 16 feet 6 inches long by 9 feet 6 inches

144

LIVE STOCK IN AUTUMN .

wide, inside measurement.

As already

mixing on.

Now take a pailful of ce

stated, the lower end of this, supposing ment and empty on the topof the gravel ; the ground was level, would be 2 feet

turn the whole twice over in a dry state,

high; but as the ground is an irregular taking care to get the cement evenly distributed. Let some one stand with a slope, it is not quite so much . “ To facilitate the formation, I have pail of water and put a little on as the

had oak posts put down at each corner men turn it a third time. Let it be and along the sides : the upper or further turned again , taking care that the coarse

end being 1 foot higher than those next and fine gravel is thoroughly mixed and the bath, thus giving 1 foot fall for all made wet, when it will be ready for the drainings to go back into the bath . placing where required. On the top of these posts, larch framing, “The proportions for the floor of the

7 inches by 3/4 inches, is firmly nailed dripper will do quite well 1 part cement all round, thus forming a stout frame- to 7 parts of gravel or broken stones ; work in which to insert the posts for the and if the soil or stones have been well

T

framework of the pens. The soil dug rammed and made solid , 4 inches of out of the pit for the bath was wheeled concrete will be sufficient. We strongly

in here, and helped to fill up the requisite recommend that the floor be finishedoff height before putting down the concrete with a coat of plaster before it is quite floor. Up the centre of the floor another set, and not polished too smoothly. If

piece of larch, 6 inches by 3 inches, it is made very smooth, the sheep are runs the whole length,and is half checked

constantly falling down ; whilst if finished

into the framing across the ends to give off with coarse sand, and levelled off with it stability, being 12 inch lower than the wood - float instead of being polished the two sides and the upper end ; but with a trowel, the sheep have good foot the framing at the lower end is cut away

hold.

to the level of the centre pieces, to allow Finishing the Bath.- " Regarding the drainings to run back into the bath the finishing of the bath : after filling it —the floor of the dripper not only

must be allowed to stand three days at

sloping from the further end, but also the least to set. At the end of that from the sides to the centre. The soil time, let the inside boards be carefully and stones used to raise the floor of the taken away, and one day more allowed dripper must be well rammed, and ex- to elapse before attempting to plaster, tended some distance beyond the frame- unless the weather be extra dry, when work, or the floor will crack. plastering may be proceeded with at Making the Concrete.--.“ Be careful

once.

As it is a confined space for the

In

plasterer to work in, it is well to leave the

forming the walls of the bath, be specially careful to have the gravel freeis from not dirt. A little sharp coarse sand objectionable ; but the strongest work

outside casing standing until the inside is walls. finished, to prevent cracking of thequality, Let the plaster be put on of good and well pressed and rubbed into the

to use really good cement.

that can be made in concrete, if gravel wall, and there need be no fear of its

be used, will be to have it perfectly free coming off. If the bath should be built body of plaster must be from dirt or dirty sand : size of gravel of brick, a good first touch of frost will inches down to very coarse sand, put on, or the with but little of the latter. The pro- fetch it all off again. The formation of from

portions of cement to gravel : 1 part of the sloping gangway is a very simple best Portland cement to 7 parts of matter when the outer walls of the bath gravel for the lower part of the wall. are formed, and needs no further ex

“ When approaching the top of the planation. The sloping, gangway can wall, it is wise to make it a little stronger, be formed, if preferred, when the founda say i part cement to 5 % of gravel, or tion is put down, and thus save a little stones broken small and free from dirt.

wall.

“ But little need be said regarding the Proceed as follows: Take a pail, and fill, railing of the dripper, as its construction

There is no difficulty in mixing concrete.

say, seven times, with gravel — having

is so well known among sheep -farmers

first put down a large door or board for generally, and plans and elevation , &c.,

}

SHEEP IN AUTUMN .

145

annexed , will, we think, show all suffi- good coat of wool upon it, that con ciently clear.

siderable pressure is needed to get it

Catching - pen .— “ As regards the down, but it is of great advantage to do so

. catching-pen , it can be constructed en Let the sheep then be passed the next assistant, and so on to on part only the : woodwork tirely of rough

needing to be carefully made is just opposite entrance

to the Bath of Section Eod

the

bath , where a sloping gangway should be made so as to lead the

sheep gradually and

=

easily down to the end of the sloping board already spoken of. This small portion should be made water tight . The end of the bath next this pen can

,-bFig Dipping 55..5ath

.4No.

Folds Largo of Wall

No. 4.

at pleasure, but must stop 8 inches from the top of side walls, as named already, and on the top of this end wall will rest the sloping board, which must be

nking Ba Slop

FOLD LARGE

be formed of concrete , or built up with bricks

embedded in cement, to make the end water

tight. The floor of the catching-pen should be raised to within about

2 inches of the top of Process of Dipping.

.3No.

_ " All being ready for starting, we will sup pose a good number has to be dipped : two per

Level

PLAN

ELEVATION

the side walls of the bath .

sons will be needed to Ground

bring the sheep for

2 No.

still, three should stand at the side of the bath, to guide the sheep through. Let the one nearest the catching or entrance pen take hold of each sheep with one

. 1.No.

ward ; two, or, better

08008 sepog U

!

hand as it comes for

ward and as it walks down the sloping board, and with the other hand press down the hinder part of the sheep, keeping the head above the mixture. It will be found when the sheep has a VOL. III.

until it gets foothold up the sloping gangway. Plans of

Bath.— “ The plan and

elevation annexed ( fig. 555), are drawings of a complete set we havejust constructed K

146

LIVE STOCK IN AUTUMN .

for Mr Duncan at Balliemore Farm, Strachur. They are built so as to take advantage of large fank or fold. The

so well that it leaves nothing to be de sired.

Length of Bath .— “ I would suggest

sheep enter the catching or gathering pens that no bath should be under 15 feet, or at No. 1 , which is formed inside one large more than 20 feet in length - 18 feet division of fold ; through gateway A pass makes a splendid bath. If the bath is

into No. 2 ; through gateway B, thence too long it takes too much dip to fill up into the bath, No. 3, passing up the bath. A bath of 20 feet long is into the dripper, No. 4. When drained, ample for anyflock in this country,and they pass out of the upper end of dripper a shorter one does quite well for medium back into a second division of large fold flocks." through gateway c.

Pens Nos. I and 2

Stone and Wood Baths.-- The main

will hold about as many sheep as both plan of the bath and dipper described by

divisions of dripper 4, 4. The boiler- Mr Wood is well suited for swimming house is built so as to take advantage of baths of all sizes. Different materials, wall of large fold ; one side of it forming however, are often used in their construc a side of pen No. 2.

Plan of this house tion. Wood is largely employed ; but

could not be shown for want of space.

the best kind of material is the Caith

Cost of Bath.- " As a rough guide ness flagstone—that is, where it or any to any one contemplating erectinga set, similar flagstones can be obtained con we give the cost of all but the boiler- veniently, and at reasonable cost. Tossing Sheep into Bath.--The con

house.

struction of the passage leading into the Erecting woodwork of dripper, 42 hours, at 7d. ,

ki 4 6

Fixing boards for forming con crete bath , 24 hours, at 7d., Forming pens I and 2, 27 hours, Ironmongery ,

O 14 O 15

0 9

0 I2

O

O

6

Portland cement used for bath ,

18 cwt., at 2s. 3d .,

2

O 12 472 Do. , for dripper, 572 cwt. , Plasterer's time, 18 hours, at 772d., O II 3 6 O o Plumber's work, .

bath, so as to facilitate the driving of the sheep into the latter, requires considera tion. The sheep are of course reluctant to walk into the liquid. It is a good

plan to let the floor of the passage ter minate in a trap-board, which capsizing forwards, tosses the sheep into the bath in true bathing attitude. Some farmers consider that the catch

ing or “ gripping ” pen may be advantage All labourers' work was done by the ously dispensed with — a short passage ordinary farm hands, at odd times, under or " shedder " being formed between the

my own directions. Their time, which was accurately kept, amounted in all to twentydays at 38. = 60s. The carting is not included. This was also done at odd times. Wood used — all home -grown

gathering-pen and the bath. method of regulating the passage of the sheepis by hanging a small gate just in side the trap-board, and keeping a lad in charge of it. By adopting this method

stuff -- not valued .

the services of the “ grippers ” are unnec

“ As the whole is a permanent fixture, essary, and the rough handling the sheep it was not necessary to study lightness, mightotherwise experience is avoided . as is the case with portable ones, so the

Plunge-bath . — For small flocks the

whole of the woodwork is put together small plunge- bath is still most largely off the saw , and tarred. Allowing a few used. It is generally constructed of shillings for tarring, and odds and ends, wood or flagstone, and the sheep have it will thus be seen that, exclusive of timber and carting, also my own atten

to be lifted both into and out of it.

Dipping Mictures.

tion, that £ 10 about covers all expenses for gathering -pen, bath, and dripper.” Writing to the editor of this work in

The flock -owner has almost unlimited choice as to the material to be used in

November 1887, Mr Wood says : "After bathing or dipping his sheep. Prepared two years' observation and inquiry, I

sheep-dips are in the market by the To say that they are all good would be saying too much. There are Indeed the whole arrangement works at least a dozen , however, which are ex

have come across nothing equal to the arrangement I have already described.

score.

SHEEP IN AUTUMN .

147

tensively employed, and each of which is much discussion from time to time as to cordially commended by different flock the advisability of farmers purchasing

the raw materials and preparing the dip

owners .

for themselves. Many contend that by safe, it would be imprudent in this work, doing so they may have, at a lower cost, to specially distinguish any particular a dip as effective as any offered for In these circumstances it would be un-

sale .

dip.

Non-poisonous Dips.

These dips

In reference to this point, Mr George

are roughly classified into poisonous and Brown, Watten Mains, Caithness, says: non -poisonous dips, those which contain “ One gallon carbolic acid in 85 gallons poisonousingredients and those which of water, with 2 lb. of arsenic, 2 lb. soda, do not.

This classification , however, is and 5 lb. soft soap, will be found to be

not perfect, for some of the so -called non-

as good and as efficient a dip for 100

poisonous dips are such only in name. sheep as any in the market. The arsenic Indeed it is affirmed by many farmers

and soda are mixed together and brought

that perfectly non -poisonous dips would to the boiling-point, when the soft soar When all is dissolved, this

be ineffectual in destroying keds and

is added.

other insects unless used at greater

mixture is well stirred into the bath con

strength than directed by their makers taining 85 gallons of water. This would : -perhaps even as much as one and a half dip 100 sheep at a smaller cost than any times the prescribed strength. of the prepared dips. Objections to Home -made Dips. The object of dipping is not only to kill the insects already developed, but “ The only objection we have heard to

also to destroy the eggs and embryo of this plan of using a home-made dip is future generations. Non -poisonous dips that shepherds are said to be so careless will kill the insects, but not the embryo

that they cannot be trusted to work with

or eggs. These develop later ; and for such a dangerous poison as arsenic. A Safe Method.- “ This difficulty this reason, those who use non -poisonous dips have to dip twice, in order to thor- might be overcome by having the mate oughly cleanse their sheep. The inter- rials weighed up in quantities suitable

val between the two dippings usually for 50 or 100 sheep. The bath should be extends to ten days or a fortnight.

marked to show the depth of the liquid

Non - poisonous of Non of poisonous required for say 50 and 100 sheep, and Dips.- Non -poisonous dips are, as a rule, the mixture should be frequently well Composition

made up of carbolic acid in one form or stirred. The bath might first be filled to

other ; an alkali soft soap , with some- the 100 mark, then when reduced to the times a slight addition of sulphur. Most 50 mark the quantity for other 50 might of these dips have also an admixture of be added. The residue will no doubt some other substance with a long name, have a tendency to become stronger, and when say about 200 sheep have been and generally poisonous.

Poisonous Dips.—The poisonous dips run through, it might be well to add 8 or are in most cases supplied in the form 10 gallons of water to what remains of of powder, and are usually made up of the mixture, arsenic and alkali, soda, or potash, occaStirring.- " A very important point

sionally with the addition of sulphur. is to have the liquid well stirred in the These poisonous dips are, of course, the bath when the dipping is going on .” most effective in killing insects and emA Good Mixture.- Mr David Wood , bryo, but they have to be kept and used author of that useful little volume, 66

with great carefulness.

Sheep Dipping,” 1 says : “ I have not

It is right to say that, while it is be- a word to utter against arsenical prepara lieved these remarks correctly indicate tions. Rather would I praise them ,

the prevailing ingredients of sheep-dips, where they can be used without the pos the exact composition of several of the sibility of cattle getting at the mixture, specific preparations offered as sheep-dips or grazing after sheep newly dipped. is guarded by their makers as a valuable But I am fully convinced that, where it secret.

Home -made Dips. — There has been

1 W. Blackwood & Sons.

Price

148

LIVE STOCK IN AUTUMN .

is possible and convenient to dip in Oc- deferred, and the ewes and lambs dipped tober and February, the following mix- together about two weeks before tupping ture will be found to answer admirably, begins. In other cases the dipping of

and though not a non -poisonous mixture, adult sheep is deferred until the New it is not dangerous to cattle or sheep, Year, or even until spring ; the practice either from drinking the water or eating varying with the locality, and the liabil

the grass contaminated, as the smell aris. ityof the sheep to be struck by the fly, ing from it will prevent them from touch- and the prevalence of other parasites. ing grass on, or in, which it exists : I In the north of Scotland old sheep are,

, November, and lambs,twice, carbolicofacid to 80ofgallons of water. It October or is necessary to have hot water at hand, in August and November. and dissolve in it a little common wash-

Weather for Dipping. - It is very

ing-soda,to facilitate the mixing ofthe essential that dry weather be chosen spirits of tar. Let the operator take for the operation, otherwise little benefit half a pailful of hot water and put in a will be derived from it. If the sheep quart of spirits of tar, and then a quart are wet the wool will not absorb the

or two of the soda mixture, according to dip properly ; and if after dipping they the strength, and stir. The carbolic acid are exposed to heavy rain, before the can be put straight into the bath , and fleece has become perfectly dry, the solu tion will in all probability be washed

simply well stirred .” When a halt is made in the dipping,

out of it. Dressing for Scab . — When scab ap stirred before the work is resumed . pears in a flock it is a good plan to “ Another * bathe " instead of “ dip ” the sheep. Quantity of Arsenic.

the liquid should be particularly well

essential point is to take care that the By the bathing system the mixture can quantity of arsenic never exceeds 2 lb. to be more thoroughly rubbed into the 80 or 85 gallons of water. Many of the affected parts, while a stronger mixture

accidents which occur in dipping may be can be used with safety. For this pur traced to neglect of these precautions. pose a good dressing for 50 sheep is We sometimes hear of 4 lb. of arsenic made of 172 gallon spirits of tar, 2 lb.

being used in about 80 gallons of water tobacco (infused ), 5 lb. soft soap, 4 lb. for 100 sheep, with the result that few soda, and 2 lb. hellebore. Many add 1 deaths follow. The wonder, indeed, is gallon of oil. All the ingredients ex

that the whole flock is not destroyed by cept the spirits of tar are mixed together, such treatment.”

the spirits of tar being added to the

Mixing Poisonous and Non-poison- pouring- jug directly, at the rate of 12 ous Dips. It is the use practice with some whisky- glassful to each sheep. The sheep - farmers to manufactured exact quantity required will of course poisonous and non -poisonous dips mixed depend a little upon the size of the

together. The poisonous powder-dip is sheep.

If they are small or weak, i added to kill the eggs of insects. A gallon of spirits of tar may be sufficient

packet intended for 50 sheep is for this for 50 sheep. purpose sufficient for 100 sheep, along One careful dressing with the above with the non - poisonous dip. mixture may be relied upon to destroy Time for Dipping. — The end of the scab. Oil in Dips.-- There is considerable autumn and beginning of winter is the most general time for dipping. The difference of opinion as to the advantage

general dipping of the Hock usually of using oil in sheep -dip . Some contend that it is highly beneficial to the fleece, night before the rams are put amongst in particular enabling it to throw off

takes place at least ten days or a fort

the ewes, as to which the practice varies water more readily.

Others discount

greatly throughout the country. It is this idea, contending that oil and caus a common practice to dip lambs when tic potash do harm by destroying the they are weaned, about August, and to

“ yolk ," and forming a soap which

repeat the operation about November. is readily washed out of the fleece by In many places the summer dipping is rain .

TUPPING SEASON.

149

to the number of ewes to each ram , the

TUPPING SEASON.

The autumn and early winter is the

character of the ground as well as of the sheep must be taken into account. On

mating season on sheep-farms. The precise time for introducing the rams to the ewes, as we shall presently see, varies considerably throughout the country.

high rough land and poor pasture it would not be prudent to allow more than about 35 to each ram . On low level land and good pasture a specially active

Flushing Ewes. It has been found adult ram may serve 70 or 80, or even more .

a good plan to " flush ” the ewes just before tupping -- that is, to give them an

Sixty -five should be the maxi

The best plan is to have each exceptionally abundant supply of suc- ram and his companions in a field or culent food for about two weeks before division by themselves. When the size mum .

tupping, so as to have them in an im- and number of enclosures, or other proving condition when mated.

This arrangements of the farm , do not per

treatment hastens tupping, tends to in- mit of the division of the flock into such crease the number of twin-lambs, and to

small lots, then each lot may consist of

lessen the number of barren ewes.

the number sufficient for two rams.

If possible, a portion of rich pasture should be preserved for this purpose, or the ewes may have a run of the new grass and stubbles after harvest. On some farms where pasture is not available, a small breadth of rape is grown for the ewes, and in other cases a moderate feed of bruised oats is allowed.

Age of Tups for Using. – Opinions

have changed as to the age at which tups may be used for breeding. For merly rams were seldom used until about a year and a half old.

Now ram lambs If the lambs

are used very extensively.

are strong and well fed, and have not more than 30 to 35 ewes, they are quite

On hill - farms farmers are not so reliable, and produce a big crop of rapid anxious for twin - lambs, for on these growing lambs. lands one good lamb is sufficient for a

By using these precocious immature

ewe to rear satisfactorily. Hill-farmers sires, the early maturing properties of therefore give less attention than low- sheep have been further developed, but land farmers to “ flushing ” the ewes.

unless the system is pursued with good

Still many of them save low pasture judgment, there may be some risk of the upon which to feed them two or three constitutional stamina of the flocks being weeks before tupping. impaired. Some flock -owners, however, question Age of Ewes for Breeding.- In a the propriety of flushing stock ewes, as few cases in England the ewe lambs are

they find that when a big crop of lambs put to the ram in their first year. The has been got one season by flushing, rule, however, is to delay mating till the the crop of lambs in the following season ewe is in her second year. will be much smaller, however much the Service Marks. — To guide the shep 66

ewes may be flushed .

Mating. - An important matter to be

herd as to when certain ewes may be

expected to lamb, various marks are

attended to at this time is the assorting employed to distinguish the ewes in the of the ewes and the rams to suit each order in which they have been tupped. other. The ewes are drafted into lots to suit the different rams. Ewes of similar

Before the ram is put amongst the ewes, his breast is marked with, say, red keel,

character as to fleece and form go to- and this being repeated every morning, gether, and if they exhibit any defici- the ewes receive a mark from him as

ency in any particular point, a ram they are tupped . After the first week a exceptionally strong in that point is differently coloured keel may be used, or chosen to associate with them . In this

some other plan of marking the ewes

way, also, the flock -owner manipulates adopted. By these marks the shepherd the different strains of blood as may be desired. Number of Ewes to each Ram.-

This varies from 30 to 65, about 50 or

60 being most general. In deciding as

can reckon to within a few days the time the various ewes should lamb, and

will accordingly be able to give them the desired attention.

Changing Tups. — When the tups

150

LIVE STOCK IN AUTUMN .

have been two or three weeks amongst with each is placed a carefully chosen ram , the ewes, many farmers change them most likely bought in from some noted from one lot of ewes to another.

This

flock .

Each lot is tended by a young

often results in the successful service of man or lad , who takes care that no other ewes which would otherwise have been sheep get near them . When tupping is barren . If a ewe should break service completed, the ewes are marked with the

to one ram , she should be mated with hirsel and tup mark, and put back to another tup, a fresh one if possible. An- their respective hirsels. other planis now being pursued on some Selecting Ram Lambs.--When the farms. Two or three young rams are lambs are about three weeks old, the kept away from the ewes and well fed lambs from these selected ewes are care

until the last week or so, when the rams fully examined , and such of the male that have been used as sires are taken

ones as may be “ weedy " or unsatisfac

away, and the young fresh rams intro- tory in any way are castrated with the duced to the ewes .

Treatment of Tups. It is the custom

others of the flock .

A few weeks later

the selected ram lambs are again closely

with many farmers to take the rams into examined, and any inferior ones assigned an enclosure or house, and give them

for sale, for slaughter, or castrated.

extra food , such as bruised oats, every The two lots of specially chosen ram night during the tupping season . lambs are now joined, and carefully and

Time for Tupping. The exact time liberally fed. for putting the rams amongst the ewes

Intermixing Blood . In using these

depends upon the climate of the locality, home-bred ram lambs, those bred from the character of the farm , the variety of sheep, and the purposes for which the produce are intended, whether for feeding off as fat lambs or other purposes. In the chapter upon the lambing season,

hirsel No. I are put amongst hirsel No. 2, and vice versa . The same routine is

pursued every year, fresh blood being introduced now and again.

Divisional vol. iv. pp . 47-87 , the great variation in the time of mating ewes and rams has been fully indicated.

HORSES IN AUTUMN .

Each farmer decides what is the best There are few points connected with time for him , in his particular circum- horses which demand any special notice

stances, and for his peculiar objects, to

in the autumn season .

Work - horses

have himnubs, dropped, and the mating will be fed and treated generally in ac the ewes and ºramsis arranged accord- cordance with the duties required of ingly, bearing in mind that pregnancy'in

them.

the ewe usually extends to 21 weeks--Divisional vol. iv. p . 87.

which may have been on the pasture

Young horses, and breeding animals

Speaking generally, it may be said that fields during summer and early autumn, the tupping season ranges from early in will be housed in the evenings when the September to the end of November. The chilly nights begin. Perhaps till the northern hill-farms, of course, come last. very end of autumn, or even later, they The rams usually remain with the ewes may be put to the fields for a few hours six weeks.

daily, much depending upon the locality and the character of the weather. Youny Ram -breeding on Will -farms. horses are all the better of being reared In previous portions of this work the so as to make them hardy outdoor rather

breeding of rams on low country and than delicate indoor plants. arable farms has been discussed . Here

A consider

able amount of cold will do them no

we may append a few notes as to the harm , if they have a dry well-sheltered bed in which to spend the night.

breeding of rams on hill -farms. Selecting and Mating Ewes . - When the tupping season arrives, the stock of ewes is carefully examined, and say 50 of

SHOEING .

the best are selected from each hirsel.

As yet nothing has been said regarding

These lots of 50 are kept separate, and

the shoeing of horses. It is an important

HORSES IN AUTUMN .

151

subject, now, happily, better understood hard surface. The unshod horse, indeed, than formerly. has a perfect foot - short toe, wide heels, Faulty Shoeing. - It was notorious and large frog — see fig. 556. In shoe that the system of shoeing practised by ing, therefore, the object should be to country blacksmiths was, as a rule, faulty follow nature as closely as possible. There is no higher authority upon in principle and still more unsatisfactory

in execution. It was rare to find a black- horse-shoeing than Dr Fleming, principal smith who had taken the trouble to in- veterinary surgeon of the army ; and form himself as to the formation of the horse's foot and the real objects of shoe ing, so that the work was usually done in 1.1/1 71

a rough, haphazard fashion, often per manently impairing the usefulness of a valuable animal.

Too often the rough -and-ready shoer would pare and file away at the hoof un til it was seriously weakened ; the foot being made to suit the shoe, instead of

the shoe adjusted to fit the foot. Improvement in Shoeing. — There was thus much need for improvement in

the practice of horse-shoeing, and with considerable success a movement for this purpose was taken upabout 1887. Shoe

ing competitions became a feature at the Royal English and other shows, hand some prizes being offered to expert black smiths to exhibit their handiwork . Both

by writing and speaking, as well as by ocular demonstration, a good deal has

been done in recent years to arouse the interest of blacksmiths in the proper methods of shoeing ,—to convince them of the faultiness and injurious influence of the old haphazard practice, and ac-

Fig. 556. - Horse's foot in the natural state.

from his admirable volume, the ‘ Prac

tical Horse-Keeper,' we take the following notes on this subject : The Hoof.— “ In order to understand

the general principles of shoeing, a glance

at the different parts of the hoof is neces quaint them with the details of the most sary. The ' wall' is that portion which approved methods. surrounds the foot, and is alone seen

Shoeing not always Necessary . when this is placed on the ground. It There has from time to time been much is fibrous in structure, the fibres passing discussion as to the necessity for shoeing from above to below , as they grow from

horses. Horses working on land can do where the skin terminates. Externally, very well without shoes, and in some these fibres are dense and resisting, but

parts of the Shires, the counties around those nearer the interior gradually become

London, it is common to see unshod soft and spongy. The growth of the wall horses at work. Young horses and breed- is indefinite, it being the part which has ing animals, not beingworked, are better to sustain wear through contact with the without than with shoes.

It is the rule, however, to have farm-

ground . “When the foot is lifted, the sole and

horses shod, and it is the universal prac- thefrog are seen on its lower or ground tice in this country with horses working - The object of shoeing is not to improve or remodel the foot ; it is merely to assist the hoof in protecting the foot from injury from the on roads and streets. Object of Shoeing.

surface . Sole . “ The sole is usually more or less concave in a healthy foot. It is fibrous, like the wall, its fibres passing in the same direction ; but they are much softer, and their growth is definite, they

concussion and friction to which it is ex- breaking off in the form of flakes when posed when the animal is working on they have attained a certain length.

152

LIVE STOCK IN AUTUMN .

Frog.- " The frog is a triangular mass

Weight of Shoes.— “ Not a grain of

of somewhat soft and elastic fibrous horn, situated at the posterior part of the sole. Like that part, its fibres are also of definite growth, and flake off in large

iron more than is absolutely necessary should be allowed as a protection ; and this question of weight of shoes is an important one, especially with horses

patches from time to time.

which are compelled to travel beyond a

Functions of Parts .-- " The wall sus-

walk.

There are no muscles below the

tains weight and wear on all kinds of knee and hock , and those which are

ground ; the sole is adapted for sustain- chiefly concerned in the movements of ing weight, on soft ground more particu- the limb arise high up, and act upon larly; while the frog has a most important short levers. An ounce weight at the use in acting as a cushion to support the shoulder or stifle, therefore, progressively

powerful tendon which flexes the limb, and rapidly increases, until at the foot it in diminishing jar, and in preventing has become several pounds. Therefore slipping

it is, that a shoe six or twelve ounces

“ The unpared sole and frog of the heavier than is absolutely necessary to healthy foot need no protection on any protect the wall from wear, occasions a the kind of soil. The flakes of loose horn great waste of muscular power of If we on the former serve a very useful purpose limb, and consequent fatigue.

inretaining moisture,and so keeping the consider the rapidity with which the solid horn beneath soft and elastic, while weight increases from the shoulder or springs when the hip towards the foot, the number of steps they act as so many foot is placed on projecting stones. The a horse takes in a journey of a few hours, more the frog is exposed to wear, the and that there are four feet so surcharged, notion of the many larger and sounder it grows, and the we shall gain some the animal has been better it is for the foot and limb.

Fore and Hind Feet.— “ The fore

needless tons which

compelled to carry, and the strain thrown

foot is of more importance, in the matter upon foot and limb — a strain they were never intended, and are not adapted by as it has to support much more weight, nature , to bear. All shoes should, then, and is consequently more exposed to be as light as may be compatible with of shoeing, than the hind one ; inasmuch

disease and injury. the wear demanded from them . Form of Shoes.- “ For all horses ex “ The fore-foot, when well formed, is

nearly, if not quite, circular ; the hind- cept, perhaps, the heaviest animals em foot is somewhat oval, the frog smaller, ployed in drays and heavy waggons, the and the sole more concave .

lower or ground face of the shoes should

Hoof Growing.—“ When the hoof is be concave, and the upper or foot surface shod the wall is not exposed to wear, plane, or nearly so. They should be re and therefore would grow to an inde tained by the smallest number of nails

finite, and, consequently, most incon- possible - six or seven in the fore-shoes venient length, if the shoe should chance and eight in the hind -shoes. Calks to be retained too long, and the exces- should never be employed for light sive growth of horn not removed. The horses. With the heaviest horses-the sole and frog , on the contrary, never dray or waggon animals — it may be ad cause inconvenience, as their growth is vantageous to have toe and heel calks to limited.

Principles of Shoeing.— “ What is

afford secure foothold .

Process of Shoeing.— “ The procedure

required in shoeing, then , in principle, in shoeing is simple in the extreme. When is merely protection from undue wear, the old shoe is removed from the hoof,

with the least possible interference with, nothing more is required than to remove or disturbance to, the functions of the the excessive growth of the wall by means

foot and limb. The excess in length of the wall must be removed at frequent intervals — between a fortnight and a month - according to the activity of the

of the rasp, applied to the lower margin or ground , or sole border-not the front of the wall. The amount to be removed will depend upon the growth, and of this

growth ; but the sole and frog, if healthy, the farrier's skill in his art should enable should not be disturbed . him to judge. It is at the toe or front

HORSES IN AUTUMN.

153

portion that the excess is usually found, sideration. It removes the dense tough and this should be removed until, in an

fibres which are best adapted for hold

ordinary hoof, when placed on the ground, ing the nails that retain the shoe, and the angle should be about 50° to 52º. exposes the soft spongy horn beneath ; The angle can be easily measured bythe this soon dries, cracks, and breaks, and

experienced eye. Thesole or frog should does not afford sufficient support to the not be touched, not even the loose flakes nails. removed ; and all the work ought to be Evils of Shoeing.— “ The evils of shoe

accomplished by means of the rasp . ing, as too often practised, are— (1) par Paring out and hacking at these parts ing of the sole and frog ; ( 2 ) applying with the drawing-knife should be abso- shoes too heavy and of a faulty shape;

lutely condemned as destructive to the (3) employing too many or too large foot.

nails ; ( 4) applying shoes too small, and Have the Foot Level.- " In reducing removing the wall of the hoofs to make

the wall to a proper length, care should the feet fit the shoes; (5) rasping the be exercised in keeping both sides of the front of the hoof . hoof of the same height ; as, if one is left “ The shoe should give the hoof a level higher than the other, the foot, fetlock, natural bearing on the ground. and, indeed, the whole limb, will be Calkings.— “ Calkings are hurtful to

thrown out of the perpendicular. This fast-moving horses, and may be dispensed causes the horse to travel painfully, as it with if theshoes have a concave ground twists the joints, and in time leads to disease. Nearly always the inside of the foot is left higher than the outside, and this throws severe strain on the outside

surface, and the frog is allowed to come fully in contact with the ground ; if they are resorted to, their injurious effects should be averted by employing a toe

of the foot and fetlock. Standing in front of the horse when the foot is on

piece of the same height. Charlier Method .— “ knowing that

the ground, one can perceive at once the horse's foot is admirably constructed In a to perform certain definite functions, and well-formed foot and leg, a plumb-line that the hoof, in ordinary conditions, is should fall from the pointof the shoulder designed to act as the medium through through the middle of the knee, shank, which the most important of these are whether this deviation is present.

pastern, and front of the hoof.

carried out, but that its circumference is

Fitting the shoe .- " The wall having liable to be broken away and worn when been reduced sufficiently, the shoe should unduly exposed, we have only to substi fit full all round the circumference, and tute for a certain portion of this perish

project slightly beyond the heels. Heat able horn, an equivalent portion of a is not absolutely necessary in fitting it,

more durable material, and the hoof is

or procuring accurate coaptation between secured from damage by wear, while its it and the hoof.

Nails.— “ The nails should take a short,

natural functions remain unimpaired . “ With this object in view , what has

thick hold of the wall, so that, if possible, been designated the Periplantar or Char the old nail - holes may be obliterated lier method of shoeing has been intro when the excess of horn is removed at duced, and with considerable success. the succeeding shoeing. In the fore -foot “ In this method the sole and frog, as the nails should be driven home more well as the bars, are left unpared. The firmly at the toe than the heels, particu- crust or wall is bevelled off at the edge

larly the inside heel.

by the rasp, and by means of a special

Rasping.— “ The clinches must be laid knife, with amovable guide, a groove or down as smoothly as possible, and with recess is made along this bevelled edge only the most trifling rasping. The front to receive the shoe. Into this groove is of the hoof or wall should on no account fitted the shoe. This is a narrow, but

be otherwise touched with the rasp, but somewhat deep, band of iron (or, asnow, ought to pass in a straight line from the a mixture of iron and steel; or, better

top, or coronet, to the shoe. Rasping still, Bessemer steel). It is perforated by this part of the hoof is most injurious, from four to six oval nail -holes of small and should not be tolerated on any con- size, and, if required, may be provided

LIVE STOCK IN AUTUMN.

154

with a clip at the toe, though this is these sometimes break at the neck, or seldom found necessary .

fall out, require to be screwed in, and

“ Its upper inner edge is rounded by the thread is liable to become rusty, the file to prevent it pressing too much while they are somewhat expensive. “ Another much simpler and cheaper against the angle of the sole, and the ends of the branches are narrow and method is the introduction of a sharp square peg into a square hole puncheil bevelled off towards the ground . “ The nails are very small, and have in each branch of the shoe, and, if neces

a conical head and neck. They must be sary, at the toe—this stud and the hole of the finest quality. having a slight taper, which permits the Fitting the Charlier Shoe.— “ It is

former to be inserted and removed : it

best to fit the shoe in a hot state, as it should not project beyond the foot sur must have a level bed, and follow ex- face of the shoe. Or, the studs and actly the outline of the wall. After it holes may be round and tapering in the has been fitted , it is desirable to remove, same manner . by a small drawing -knife, a little of the “ Blunt studs may be used when there

horn from the angle of the groove of the is not ice, or on wooden pavements, or

hoof, to correspond with the rounded asphalte. inner edge of the shoe.

This ensures

When required to be used, these studs are merely inserted into the

the proper amount of space between the holes and require a smart blow ; when it latter and the soft horn, at the margin is desired to remove them , a few taps on each side, and a blow on the face of the

of the pedal bone.

“ In strong hoofs the shoe is almost shoe, will generally make them jump entirely buried in the groove ; but in out. those which have the soles flat or convex,

with low heels, or which have been par

POULTRY IN AUTUMN.

tially ruined by the ordinary method of shoeing, it is not safe to embed it so

MANAGEMENT OF FOWLS .

deeply , at least to commence with. Shoeing for Ice.— “ Provided the frog

comes largely in contact with the ground, there is not usually much danger of slipping ; but as it is not always possible to secure this, recourse is had to artificial means . Among these are calkins, which, as has been already mentioned, are ob-

Hatching in Autumn .

The hatch

ing of the common fowl should not ex tend beyond the end of August or be ginning of September, unless more than ordinary care can be bestowed on the rearing of the broods. The chickens hatched up to that time will be in ex

jectionable in all but slow-paced horses ; cellent condition at Christmas and New and india-rubber pads of various forms to Year, and be valuable in a pecuniary fit between the shoe and the hoof, and

point of view , should the farmer choose

come in contact with the ground, aiding, to avail himself of a market. But for the farmer's own enjoyment in as well, in diminishing concussion . Roughing.- “ For ice -covered roads a delicacy on his table, the hatching may there are numerous contrivances.

In

be continued until the cold weather

ordinary • roughing ,' the shoes are taken set in. Hatching Periods. off and a sharp calkin is turned up ; but

- The

natural

this requires à forge, much time, is in- periods of hatching fowls are spring and jurious to the horse's feet, does not last early autumn, a cessation being expedient in the warm months of June and July. long, and is expensive. Frost-nails.

Frost-nails ' are some-

It is well to attend to this hint from

times employed, but these also require a nature, though hatching is quite possible farrier, last a very short time, and like wise damage the hoofs. Studs.

“ Screw studs or pegs are

in the warmest months by having cool retreats for the broods, and careful treat ment.

more cony nvenient,

screw -holes being made Stray Hatching. - Notwithstanding in the shoes when they are first put on , the utmost attention bestowed on fowls,

into which sharp or

blunt pegs are

the hen will make her own nest and

screwed as occasion may require. But

bring out broods in the corn -fields, at the

POULTRY IN AUTUMN .

155

roots of hedges, and under the cover of nest for herself. But if her nest be After being away for a time, known, and although the eggs be re she will return homewith a fine healthy moved, the desire for sitting will come

shrubs.

brood, all alike in size and colour, to upon her at the appointed time. Selecting Winter Layers.- Autumn

seek subsistence for herself and numerous

offspring ; and joyous is the welcome she receives with her treasure . As long as there is plenty of food for them in the fields, she will rear them there in preference to bringing them home, and by the

is the season for selecting hens for laying eggs in winter. They should be young and strong, but of different ages, that a succession in the laying may be main tained . Hens readily take to the nests

time she returns, the chickens will be strong and well fledged. But when the hatching is late, and food scarce, she

made for them at this season, evincing

returns early to her home.

no desire to wander into the fields.

Moulting.- Autumn is the season of moulting for fowls. The care they

Fowls that hatch broods in the fields require in this periodic visitation, is are liable to destruction by vermin, and

to have them in a warm place at night,

many a brood-mother has been destroyed and to receive food of a rather better description. The nights of September with all her young by the ruthless fox. Preventing Clucking .-- Many cruel become chilly for fowls, for they are of expedients are resorted to by country tropical origin. people to prevent hens clucking when Prevailing Laying Period.-- Hens they wish to sit and hatch, such as dip- begin to lay about the beginning of

ping them overhead in water for a few March, and continue to the beginning of seconds, pulling feathers from parts of October. They do not lay every twenty the body,confining them together under four hours—some laying every other day, a tub for days without food, and other some missing one day in three. Some barbarities - all alike ineffectual. When lay about two dozen of eggs at one period, more than one hen is confined under then cease for two or three weeks, and

a clucking tub,— which is set with its again lay other two dozen ; and so on mouth raised a little from the ground,

for the number of months mentioned .

allowing as much light as to let the hens Of these months they lay most constantly see each other,—they fight until their

in March and April. After each period

scalps are bared to the bone, and one of of laying they are inclined to sit. them probably pecked and trampled to Non -sitters . — The above remarks as death . to laying do not, of course, apply to the

Some writers recommend the hens to years non-sitting varieties, which in recent have become so popular. These

be indulged in their desire for hatching, but as most laying hens have a desire to sit when the ovarium for the time is emptied of its contents, the number of broods would be increased beyond the

will lay on for a long period with occa sional rests, and in some cases will produce two hundred eggs per annum . Nests . Whenever a hen is observed

powers of the household to superintend to indicate a desire to lay, a nest should them with the requisite care . A hen be provided her in a quiet and con sitting without eggs will sit till she injures herself.

venient place ; and if directed to it at the commencement of her laying, she

humane me-

will continue to frequent it if undis

Humane Methods. A

thod of suppressing clucking, is to put turbed. a single hen under a small tub, high

But a nest is not required for every

enough to let her stand up, and perforated laying hen, as several will lay in succes with holes for air, and to deprive her of sion in the same nest, some hens laying food and water for two days and nights, or even more .

earlier in the day than others; and so

Or she may be placed in tenacious aru they of their right to par

a coop with barred floor, so that she will ticular nests, that two will not unfre

not find a place comfortable enough to quently occupy the same nest at the same time. Every place is not equally suitable for A hen will lay eggs when she is tending her brood , and she will choose a a hen's nest. In other places than the

encourage the broodiness.

156

LIVE STOCK IN AUTUMN .

lien -house, hens are not fond of laying the integrity of the eggs laid by the same their eggs on a level with the ground, hen . “ To every hen ," he observes, be though a quiet corner in a shed , under longs an individual peculiarity in the

shelter, is not unfrequently selected by form , colour, and size of the eggs she themselves for the purpose. But they lays, which never changes during her prefer to lay at an elevation above the whole lifetime, so long as she remains in ground, such as in the mangers of stables, health , and which is as well known to in a trough of a shed or hammel,

those who are in the habit of taking her

in the straw -barn upon the top of the produce as the handwriting of their mow of straw , in a stack of straw in the nearest acquaintance. Some hens lay stackyard, on a compost dunghill, or on

smooth cream-coloured eggs, others rough,

the top of the wall of a stable, byre, or chalky, granulated ones. There is the buff, outhouse, under the roof. the snow -white, the spherical, the oval, the

When nests are made in such places near-shaped, and

the emphatically egg as hens would themselves prefer , they shaped egg. A farmer's wife who in will be more quietly frequented than terests herself in the matter, will tell when nests are made for them else- you with precision, in looking over her where. Collecting Eggs.

The

hen - wife

stores, “ this egg was laid by such a hen ' a favourite perhaps — this by such

should visit every nest and collect the another '; and it would be possible that

eggs every day ; and the time for col. she could go on so throughoutthe whole lecting the largest number, and disturb- flock of poultry. Of course, the greater ing the hens the least, is in the afternoon the number kept, the greater becomes the between two and three o'clock, before difficulty in learning the precise marks they retire to roost.

Eggs are most of each .

conveniently collected in a small hand“ From a basket of thirty eggs, gathered basket, and a short light ladder will in a farmyard as they came to hand, afford access to nests above reach of the eleven laid by one or two hens whose race we were desirous to continue, were

ground. Nest - egg .

-A nest - egg should be left in every nest, as it is an established fact that hens prefer laying in nests having an egg — the thrift of a “ nest-egg” is no doubt founded on this instinct. Nest-eggs of stoneware fulfil the purpose admirably. Weight of Eggs.-- Eggs vary greatly in size, as well as to some extent in shape and colour. As a rule, from seven

selected in about two minutes by the friend who supplied us with them . If four dozen eggs, laid by no more than four different hens, were put at random on a table, the chances are that it would be as easy to so sort them as the four suits

in a pack of cards. ” 1 Preserving Eggs.

Whether eggs are

used at home or sold to egg merchants, they should be kept in a fresh state for some time. This end is attained by pre

to nine eggs will make 1 lb. weight. Care of Laying Hens. --- Neither venting the air penetrating the pores of

dogs nor children should be allowed to the shell, and the yolk coming in contact run after laying hens ; the chasing and with it. Smearing the shell, while yet

fright make them part with their eggs warm, with butter or melted suet, will before they are encrusted with the prevent the air penetrating it. Keeping shell. Guinea -fowls are incessant chasers in salt or flour has been found to answer of hens.

Shell - less Eggs.— Eggs are

well. some

Immersion in a fluid is used for

the same purpose, but the air is not

times laid by fowls a portion of which is thereby effectually excluded. The only means of preventing the desired for breeding from a favourite contact of the yolk with the shell is devoid of shell; and should such be

breed of fowls, the vitality of the egg changing the position of the egg every may be secured by covering the part day. The general mode of treating eggs wanting the shell with paper and gum , in farmhouses, whether intended for use thin paste of stucco. Individuality of Eggs. — The Rev.

or with

Mr Dixon makes these true remarks on

at home or for sale, is the slovenly way 1 Dixon's Orna . Dom , Poul. , 152.

POULTRY IN AUTUMN .

157

of keeping them in promiscuous heaps in as tightly as possible, more especially the state taken from the nests.

round the sides ; and when the box is

In recent years prizes have been offered full, before the lid is fixed, every means

at several shows for the best lots of pre- should be taken to pack and press the served eggs, and these contests have salt as closely and firmly as possible shown that, of the many methods of without breaking the eggs. The box preserving which the competitors had should then be stored away in a per tried, only two could be relied upon to fectly dry place. When the eggs are to

successfully preserve eggs for any con- be used, care should be taken to remove siderable period of time. In the one the bottom of the box, so that the stalest case lime, and in the other salt, was the eggs — i.e., those first put in - may be chief preserving agent. The processes of of first used. preserving eggs by the use of lime and “ Any person may safely store eggs by salt are thus described by Professor either of the above systems ; and pro Long : vided proper care has been taken, it will Preserving with Lime.— “ Lime af- be found that the losses are trifling, and fords one of the simplest possible means that eggs which have been kept four

for the preservation of eggs. The plan months are almost equal to those new to adopt is to select a vessel, preferably

of earthenware, into which a number of

laid .” Packing Eggs.- When eggs are sent

eggs are placed ; a mixture of lime and to a distance for hatching, they should water is then poured over the eggs. The not be smeared, but be wrapped in soft liquid may, if necessary, reach the mouth paper, and packed on end in moss or ofthe vessel, so that other eggs can, from soft hay in a hamper or box. Other Methods. It is easy to pre time to time, be dropped in. A frequent eggs in summer by first smearing serve thick. too lime mistake is in making the In this case, that which is not held in

them, while warm, with butter or melted

solution by the water - for water can only suet, and then packing them on the small

take up a certain quantity of lime - re- end in barrels in oats or wheat. The mains at the bottom of the vessel, and eggs are placed upon their small end, the eggs become embedded in it, and are because the yolk has the less chance of sometimes difficult to remove without coming in contact with the shell, while breaking at the large end the space filled with air

Preserving with Salt.— “ Eggs have should be kept uppermost. The yolk is been packed in salt for years, with more or less success - generally less, for those who have made the attempt have fallen into the mistake of using salt in the state in which it was purchased. The

held in the centre of the egg by a mem brane. Salt imparts a salt taste to fresh eggs if unsmeared with butter, but not when smeared. Oats and wheat make a good packing, and may afterwards be great secret of preserving in salt is to use used by the fowls. Suet 'used for eggs

a sample which is absolutely dry, and should be quite fresh , and rendered pure then to keep it dry. The best plan is by melting on a slow fire, which effects to use a box sufficiently large to hold the separation of the tendonous matter.

fifty eggs — this is a convenient size. The Eggs preserved by either of these methods bottom , as well as the lid, should be so

we have found fresh for months, even to

fixed that it can be taken off without containing the milk in them — which is

breaking. In practice, a layer of saltis the popular criterion of a fresh

egg, but

laid upon the bottom , and on this the is not so, since an egg may contain it eggs are placed, upon their sides ; these which is not new laid . Eggs for Preserving. - Eggs which are then covered with another layer of salt, when a second batch of eggs is are to be preserved should be perfectly

placed in the box, and so on until the fresh, newly laid, when stored. And During the process of it is considered by some that they should

top is reached .

packing, the salt must be pressed down be unfertile -- that is, they should be laid by hens which have not been in company Poultry for Prizes and Profit. L. Upcott with a male fowl for two or three weeks Gill.

previously.

LIVE STOCK IN AUTUMN.

158

Rearing Turkeys. ---- Although the the time is marked when pairs will be turkey hen is a very careful and watch- ready, they may have taken their flight.

ful mother, the brood requires daily Pigeons should be regularly fed with the tending from cold blasts and heavy poultry ; and even with that, such is the showers until they become robust, which will be in five or six weeks.

When dis-

keenness of their appetite, they will go to the fields in search of every species of

posed to lay, the hen slips away from

corn, turnip -seeds, seed -wheat, and in the

her poults and makes a rude nest amongst weeds ; and although the egg be removed,

stubbles.

Specific Gravity of Eggs. — The spe she will lay in the same nest until her cific gravity of a new-laid egg varies from

is exhausted. 1.080 to 1.090 ; an egg, Turkey eggs are justly regarded as a heavier than sea - water, great delicacy at breakfast. gravity of which is 1.030. The turkey should not be allowed to eggs rapidly lose weight, ovarium

therefore, is the specific

When kept , and become

sit to bring out a second brood, as the specifically lighter than water — this is birds will be too late to be of use the owing to the diminution of bulk in the same season, unless great pains are taken contents of the egg ; the consequence of to keep them warm . Otherwise, being which is, that a portion of the inside of very susceptible of cold, their growth the egg comes to be filled with air. Prout

kept an egg two years, and found that it Geese. --Goslings are easily injured lost weight daily, at an average rate of

will be much dwarfed.

by hailstones and heavy rains until five 0.744 grains. The original weight was or six weeks old, and should be placed 907.5 grains, and after two years' expo in shelter until the storm subsides. A sure to the atmosphere it weighed only

later brood of geese may be brought up 363.2 grains. The total loss amounted large birds by the Michaelmas of next than half the original weight. The loss through the winter, and will become fine to 544.3 grains, or considerably more in summer was somewhat greater than

year.

A goose egg is not relished, being in winter, owing, no doubt, to the differ strong -tasted . ence of temperature.

When an egg is

Ducks.--Ducks are great layers, drop- therefore employed as a test of the ping an egg almost every day. They strength of brine, the newer it is, the

commence at thebeginning of April and stronger is the brine that floats it. cease in July.

They are very careless

When an egg is boiled in water, it

layers, leaving their eggs wherever they loses weight, particularly if it be removed seek their food ; and these, on being from the water when boiling, and be per

discovered by the pigs, are champed up mitted to cool in the open air. The water as the most delicate morsels that fall in will be found to contain a portion of the th wa eir

y.

saline constituents of the egg.

The loss

To secure the eggs of ducks, the lay- of weight from boiling is not constant,

ing birds should be examined before be- varying from 20 to 30 grains, supposiny ing let out in the morning ; and those the original weight to have been 1000 indicating hard with egg, confined in the grains. Nutrition in an Egg.—The formula house till they have laid, and afterwards set at large. They are easily examined of the nutritive properties of eggs as

by suspending them in the left hand by food is : Water the wings, and simply applying the points of the fingers of the right hand Flesh - formers a little under the tail.

Many people enjoy the flavour of a new -laid duck egg. They are used in cookery as freely as hen eggs, but they will not beat up into a smooth mass.

75.00 12.60

Heat and fat giver, oil or fat Equivalents of starch

26.40

Mineral matters Total carbon

15.261

II.00

1.40

Fancy Prices for Poultry .

The

Pigeons.-- T'he dove - cot should be prices fixed on the pens at poultry -shows examined at least once a -month all sum- are often fabulous, in many cases, in mer and autumn . Young pigeons grow so rapidly in warm weather, that unless

1

Physio. at the Parm , 580.

1

POULTRY IN AUTUMN .

159

deed, simply prohibitory. But speci- which poultry enter, be left open, they mens of game and Cochins have often will creep in and commit great havoc

been sold at £100 each, the highest recorded price being £ 105 for a game cock. Frequently £ 10, £ 20, and £30 are given for fowls, and £50 has more thanonce been paid for a Bantam cock.

among the grown -up fowls, sucking the blood and leaving the carcasses. It is only by the negligence of the hen-wife that they can find access into the hen house. Polecats may be caught by plac ing a steel trap immediately behind the inside of the hole of the door of a hen

ANIMALS DESTRUCTIVE OF POULTRY .

house, covered with a little chaff.

One

The Fox . — The common fox, Vulpes of their fore-feet will spring the trap and vulgaris, is the most formidable destroyer feel its grip. These creatures are now rarely seen . of poultry. If undisturbed , he will return to their haunts and carry off one by one, until a large number is abducted. The

Weasels . — Weasels, Mustela vulgaris,

frequent steadings, and do both harm and season in which he is most active in his good. They do good in destroying rats

predatory excursions is summer, when he and mice, by sucking their blood. When has his young cubs to support ; and he a weasel takes up its abode in a corn does not confine his roamings to the stack, not a mouse dares remain in it ; and shades of night, but will boldly enter if a pole is placed from the stack to an

steadings in the afternoon when the ani- open window of the granary, the weasel mals are at pasture, and the people at finds its way into it, and deters rat or Just before the poultry go to mouse from remaining in it. work. But, on the other hand , weasels kill roost he pays a visit to thesteading, and snatches up a fowl or duck, or even a young poultry by sucking their blood : a goose or a turkey, and runs off with it to chicken, a duckling, or a gosling, basking his earth . The theft is so quietly done in the sun at the bottom of a wall or that the fowl may not be missed until hedge, runs a great risk of destruction next morning, unless it happen to be a from weasels. They steal eggs by rolling noted bird . He does not carry off a the egg forwards with the fore-paws to young bird if he can lay hold of an old their store. We have found such a store one .

The farmer puts up with the loss ; for,

whatever precaution he may use in spring

under logs of timber with seventeen hen

eggs in it, quite fresh. Rats . — Rats are the most troublesome

for the protection of his new -dropped vermin in the steading. They make every

lambs, he would acquire an unenviable place they frequent dirty and disgusting. reputation amongst sportsmen were he The mischief they do in cutting holes in to lie in wait for a fox.

boarded floors, in undermining stone

But watching would be useless, for the pavements, gnawing harness, holes in fox is too knowing to be deceived ; and sacks, consuming every edible thing, and he takes care to keep off a rival from a killing hens and pigeons sitting on their distance, so that the missing bird is al- eggs, is unendurable. most certain to have been stolen from the

The old black rat of the country, Mus

nearest steading. Foxes scent hens and rattus, is now nearly extirpated ; and the turkeys to their nests in the fields, and

fiercer, dirtier, more mischievous foreign

carry them off. The remains of birds, brown rat, Mus decumanus, has taken its devised for chiefly feathers, are often found at the place. Of the many planssteel traps are coverts in the neighbourhood. Like the the destruction of the rat, dog which buries his bone, the fox buries his plunder in the earth .

the safest and most effectual, and when occasionally, not con

used with skill

Foxes are not so numerous now as for- stantly, large numbers may be destroyed merly, and the amount of injury which in a short time. Besides mechanical

they inflict on poultry-yards is compara- means, others have also been devised for tively trifling. the destruction of rats. It is said that Wild Cats. — Polecats, Mustela puto- coal-tar smeared around the mouth of

rius, visit steadings under night, and if a their holes will drive them away. Poison hole in the door, or a slit in the wall, by is a favourite expedient for the destruc

LIVE STOCK IN AUTUMN .

160

tion of this vermin. Rabbit- flesh or a salt herring chopped up with arsenic, carbonate of barytes, or fried cork, are recommended. Special preparations for

ing in search of food - it may not find vermin when it is hungry - itwill go to the hen -house for an egg, to the hatching house for a young chicken ,or to the dove

killing rats and other vermin are sold by cot for a young pigeon. many chemists.

It will even go

and hunt the fields for game.

People

Mice. — Mice are very numerous in who will not take the trouble to feed a some countries. Gloger relates that in cat daily and regularly in the steading, 1857, on a property near Breslau, in Sil- must be troubled with vermin in it, for esia, 200,000 mice were caught in one the cat will not remain in it to destroy week.

and scare away vermin when food can be

There is no way of scaring rats and obtained more easily elsewhere. mice from a steading effectually so

as by

The Greeks tied bunches of rue under

the presence of cats. Let one or two cats

the wings of their fowls, to prevent cats

be brought up in a steading, if situate worrying them , as cats have a strong at a distance from dwelling-houses, and aversion to that herb, while they are they will become vigilant guards against very fond of valerian. vermin .

The house-cat frequently visits

Rooks. - Rooks, Corvus frugileguis,

the steading. When kept in the steading, pry about steadings, when all is quiet let each cat receive

daily, at its own par- in a summer afternoon , for stray eggs

ticular place, and at a stated hour, say II

that may have been dropped upon litter

o'clock A.M., a mess of sweet milk and

in the courtyards, or near a watering

porridge, when it will attend to receive it pond, and carry them off in their bills . as thehour arrives ; and let each have a soft, warm, comfortable bed made for it

Carrion - crow . The carrion - crow, Corvus corone, also carries off eggs and

in some quiet part of the steading. At young poultry ; but its art in effecting

night, and early in the morning, they destruction is simple compared with the will watch and hunt on their respective cunning and vigilance of the magpie. beats ; and in the course of a short time,

Magpies. — The habits of the magpie, with free access to every apartment, the Pica melanoleuca, are thus described by vermin will disappear altogether. Macgillivray: “The food of the magpie Cats are common about steadings and

consists of testaceous mollusca, slugs, larvæ , worms, young birds, eggs, small

stables ; but they are generally neglected

quadrupeds, carrion, sometimes grain,

Well - fed Cats the best Hunters .

as regards food, in the erroneous belief and fruits of different kinds, in search of

that, if fed, they become lazy and will not which it frequents the fields, hedges, hunt. So far from this being the case, a thickets, and orchards, occasionally visits regularly fed cat makes the best hunter, the farmyard, prowls among the stacks, because it then hunts for sport ; and not perches on the house-top, whence it sal

feeling pressed by hunger, it will watch lies at times, and examines the dunghill at thesame spot for hours. Being strong from its daily wholesome food, it feels courage to encounter any vermin, and will kill numbers in the course of a day. A starved cat which hunts for food eats

and places around. Although it searches for larvæ and worms in the ploughed fields, it never ventures, like the rook

and several species of gulls, to follow the plough as it turns over each successive

the first prey it catches, and, gorging furrow. It has been accused of picking

sickly sheep, I itself, lies down to sleep, in accordance the eyes of lambs and ; but it sometimes with the habits of the feline race .

The proper use of the cat is to scare away, not devour, vermin ; and when

think with injustice

carries off a chicken or duckling, and sucks an egg that may have been dropped obliged by starvation to leave the stead- abroad.”

BEE -KEEPING .

161

BEE - KEEPING. The following notes on bee-keeping are hives, "with unlimited right of pastur from the pen of the late Mr William age.” But just because these cattle are Raitt, Beecroft, Blairgowrie, who was so small, they are often neglected. One well known as one of the leading author- forgets, however, that what they lack in ities on the subject in the country : One of the most evident results of the

bulk , they compensate for in energy and in strength of numbers, so that the re

recent phenomenal depression in agricul-

sults of their labours are, under proper

ture is the greater attention being given conditions, out of all proportion to their to what were at no distant date con “stature. ' ' Bees v. Shorthorns . — Some years ago sidered as trifling accessories of the farm . The dairy, the piggery, the poultry -yard, the writer was at tea in the company of and the orchard have all more or less several farmers, who chaffed him not a come to the front, and between them in little on having a “ bee in his bonnet."

many cases go far towards making ends Foreign competition loses force in these minor industries, as is proved by the relatively good prices still obtain-

meet .

able for their produce . Bee -keeping as a Farm Industry.-

Their talk was of shorthorns. “ I'll tell you what it is,” said I, " I have a single bee at home that has this year put more money into my purse than the best short horn cow you have has done into yours. I of course referred to the queen -bee of

Besides the industries mentioned, bee- one of my hives, the mother of all its keeping ought to receive more attention inhabitants. It so happened that I had as a farm industry than has hitherto been that season taken from that stock no less devoted to it. To our certain knowledge than 130 lb. of first-class honey, in such it has in not a few instances been culti. splendid condition that I sold it to a vated as such with the best results.

It It

dealer, after winning a handsome prize

is an industry peculiarly adapted for a besides, for £10, 16s.

That

was

a

place on the farm, as is indicated by the clencher ! ancient and sacred association of " milk

Produce of Hives.- It is but fair to

and honey.”. The same pastures yield say, however, that that result was excep both — though, alas ! the latter is too often tional, though I have several times greatly left to waste its sweetness on the air.

In America and many Continental

exceeded itin quantity since. For in stance, I had in one season from a single

countries bee - keeping already occupies hive 204 lb. of bottled honey of first-class a prominent place among rural indus- quality, and an almost equal amount tries, and is generally most successful from a hive the year before, and all when associated with farming. A few without killing the bees or interfering regions, like San Diego County in Cali- with their necessary winter stores. These

fornia, the Basswood tracts in other figures indicate the possibilities that lie

States, and, to a degree, our own heath- in bee-keeping — though, taking one sea clad hills, afford unlimited natural honey son with another, I should estimate the yielding bloom . average produce of a well-managed apiary Clover for Bees. — But more generally at from 3os. to 4os. per hive. success depends on the neighbourhood Commencing.

of clover- fields.

Than these there are no

better pastures for bees, as every farmer The times are propitious for commenc must perceive when he hears the joyous ing this industry. hum of other people's bees rollicking Improved Practice . — The thirty years amongst his clover heads. up to 1888 were a period of revolution.

These “ small cattle ” are so indepen- The old straw skep and brimstone system dent of fences, that in a notice we saw have been improved away, and the new not long ago of the sale of an apiary, humane and profitable movable comb

there was added after the inventory of system has taken its place. VOL. III.

L

162

BEE -KEEPING .

After many years' experiments with mixed success, the best form of hive and system of management have become pretty well fixed . The era of experi-

as much as sheep -farming and other rural employments requires the application of a good deal of acquired information. One may, however, commence practice

ment is past, and everything is getting and the study of principles at the same simplified. Cheap and Improved Appliances.-

time — that is, commencing on a small scale, and increasing one's stocks as one's

Not only so, but while a few years ago knowledge and ability advance.

The

the newhives and appliances were rather expensive articles, the tendency has ever been towards simplicity, and consequently everything needed is now very moderate

limits of our space here forbid anything more than a digest of the knowledge any one may easily acquire more fully from books and experience.

in price. I remember when no hive was

In regard to books, beginners should

considered good for anything under £i be careful to get only the latest editions or 30s. Now they can be had for half the amount, and simpler forms for a

of the latest published works. Modern Bee-keeping (6d. ), published by Long

good deal less—so simple that with one mans & Co., is a good and reliable

as a pattern any handy man can make guide, to be followed by some larger his own.

work not more than a year or two old . When I first began the manufacture The beginners should on no account

of the indispensable article of comb-

allow themselves to become enraptured

foundation in 1876, it was selling at 6s. over any particular form of hive recom a pound ; now we retail it at under 2s. mended by the maker. Study the latest My first sections cost 8s. per 100 ; now information obtained from a disinterested they are retailed at.2os. per 1000. quarter, and then judge for yourself

Marketing Honey.— Moreover, the what would best suit the object you chief initial difficulties connected with have in view in the way of system and making a market for honey are overIt has become a staple article of

come.

trade in the best shops of all our large towns. To be sure the price, like that of all other sweets, has come down in late years ; but even yet it has not fallen

appliances.

After having thus formed a decided plan of operations, there need be no objections to reading any good works on bees, with a view to obtaining more

scientific knowledge than most handy

to the price that used to be considered a manuals can afford to give.

Much also

fair one for old - fashioned skep honey, may be at the same time learned, and and it is not likely to come lower.

more especially in the art of handling

Bee Information . - And lastly, infor- bees, by a visit to some successful bee mation is now more easily attainable keeper. than ever it was before. Besides weekly Principles of Bee -keeping Know and monthly journals entirely devoted to ledge.-As some guide towards judging

bees, most agricultural and horticultural as to the suitableness of any reading weeklies have columns devoted to the that may be undertaken, we give the

industry and to the queries of corre- following condensed summary of what spondents. And special handbooks and we consider ought to be learnt from it. more elaborate volumes are easily ob- That modern bee-keeping is an art found tained. edon strict scientific principles; that it can Exhibitions illustrative of the whole be depended upon, weather alone permit art and mystery are held annually in ting, for yielding certain fixed results, as connection with the great shows of the surely as can any other industry about a three leading agricultural societies in the farm ; and that to enable one to use his

three kingdoms, and in many parts of scientific knowledge to advantage, hives Then almost every- must be adopted that give every facility where a handy man can be picked up for controlling all the operations of the who will be delighted to tell all he bees, and for assisting them by the use knows, and give all the help he can to of comb -foundations and other modern

the country besides.

intending beginners. Knowledge necessary.--Bee-keeping

aids.

Hives. - Such hives are variously called

BEE -KEEPING .

163

bar-frame or movable comb-hives, and If these are already on hand, even though the tendency is towards great simplicity domiciled in ancient straw -skeps, so much in these. The books and dealers lists the better ; otherwise he may easily ob

may, with great plausibility, recommend tain by purchase one or more such. costly hives with elaborate fittings and These are usually to be had so much adjuncts ; but for profit and convenience

cheaper than stocks in modern hives, and

none excel those that consist of simple the experience gained in the course of

box bodies fitted with plain frames with working them into the new system is so roof and floorboard. To allow of tier- valuable, all the more so because it com ing up, with a view to the production pels him to " go slowly ," that on the of either combor extracted honey, the whole we generally advise beginners to bodies should all be exactly alike, and so commence with such . fitted as to sit accurately one over an-

By exceptional diligence in gathering

other. That is, one may have any num- information, and with that knack of ber of bodies or storeys in use as a hive managing live stock that many have as or stock, though with only one roof and a peculiar gift, it might be safe enough

floorboard. Hives with fixed legs should to embark boldly in a wholesale fash specially be avoided, any plain stand ion at first, but generally we recommend caution . being substituted . Appliances for Special Conditions.

“ Bee - fever.”—Few become really

- The student ought also to learn that in successful bee-keepers until they have at certain localities and under certain circum-

least one whole year's experience, and it

is better to try and control the “ bee fever," than to let it run riot, to the imminent danger of collapse and mis fortune. better to work for extracted honey, as Appliances. may be in most demand ; or to work for both -- say for clover -honey to be exThe needful appliances are by no tracted, and for heather - honey in the means so numerous or costly as some of stances, it may be better to adopt appliances specially with a view to producing comb -honey, this especially where heather is plentiful; or that it may be

comb.

the many large and finely illustrated

Study Surroundings. At the same price - lists now issued by dealers may time he ought to have his observing powers at work , more especially noticing

suggest. To begin with, at any rate, one's wants

the favoured bee-flowers peculiar to his may be sufficiently met by the posses neighbourhoood, and their period of sion of a hat-veil, a smoker, a supply of bloom. This knowledge will greatly aid hives, with the necessary frames, crates,

him in forming his plan, for one of the and sections, and a stock of comb-foun great secrets of success is in having one's dations. stocks in the very best condition, just Hat-veil.--- The veil is simply a yard

when the prevailing honey - flow comes and a half of black hexagon net, sewed

on, and not either still weak from spring up one seam with an elastic band, to go neglect, or what is almost as bad, weak- round a broad -brimmed hat, the lower ened by swarming after having been edge to be tucked away inside the strong. The peculiarities of his location vest. as to climate and exposure, also merit

Smoker.—The smoker is a bellows

attention . And as a result of all, he must contrivance for burning rags, brown make ир hismind whether he can afford paper, or touchwood in such away as to to give his bees the necessary time and permit of directing a stream of smoke

attention, and in what particular direc-

upon the bees when they are to be

tion he shall go to work.

handled.

Caution in Practice

A loosely tied roll of rag

(corduroy or moleskin is best) may serve a turn instead, or the fumes of tobacco

Obtaining Stocks.— Should such pre may be utilised by those who can use liminaries chance to occupy him during the pipe. This frightens and quiets the winter or early spring months, he may the bees. at once look out for the needful stocks.

Hives.

The hives,

IS

we already

BEE -KEEPING .

164

hinted, should be of simple construction, for experts to transfer both bees and each body made to hold not more than combs from the one to the other at al eleven frames.

The frames should be of the standard

most any season . The bees are “ driven ”

into an empty skep, according to direc

size used in the neighbourhood, hung in tions in the book referred to ; the combs the hives, so that ten of them occupy a are then cut out, and pieced and tied into

space of 1472 inches,that being also the the new frames ; these,with the bees, are then placed in the new hive, when they We prefer eleven frames, so that our soon fix all nicely up.

dimension of the hive the other way.

hives inside measure 14 %2x16 inches,

But we advise rather to await the

and are deep enough to hold the frames natural swarming season, when either suspended, with the necessary bee-space swarms may be allowed to come off or below and around. the plan afterwards described adopted. This size of hive is just about right for

New Swarms. —If natural swarms

permitting ordinary-sized cratesofsections be got, they should be treated thus : the to be piled up inside the upper storeys. Sections.-- Sections are those neat

dovetailed boxes to hold one or two

first that comes off should be placed in the new hive on the stool where the skep stood, the latter being removed to a new

pounds of honeycomb, and are generally location. This causes many more bees, imported from America, and sold by accustomed to the old place, to join the dealers very cheaply. swarm and strengthen it. The likelihood Crates. —Crates are the bottomless is that the skep will not swarm again. boxes or trays in which the sections are

Should it do so, the swarm should be re

arranged in groups of 21 or less, accord- turned , and more ventilation given, as a preventive, till the 21st day from first swarming, when all brood will have been Comb - foundations. — Comb -founda- hatche

ing to their size.

tions are sheets of bee's-wax impressed with the exact form of the cells as made

d out.

A second good bar-frame stock can now

by the bees. These are turned out by be had by driving all the bees and trans special machinery, and are a great help ferring any combs found straight and both in supplying the bees with material sweet . On no account would we advise of which to build combs, and in compel- more than two stocks to be made from ling them to build them straight in the one. frames or sections where wanted, at the Another Plan.—The other plan is to

same time putting it in the power of the set the skep when crowded with bees on bee-keeper to limit the production of use- top of a new hive fitted with comb-foun less drones. dation, compelling the bees to work down A few other wards through a 6 - inch hole in the Other Appliances. minor appliances might be found useful, quilt, by closing their old entrance. If though not absolutely necessary, such as it be done at the right time, the bees a queen cage or two, some queen - ex- will generally have some combs worked

cluding zinc, bottle-feeders, and a honey- out below within a week, when an exami The cast carpets or blankets

knife.

nation should be made of these to see

about the house will supply all the quilts whether the queen has gone below . The needed for a commencement.

presence of eggs in the cells may gene

Honey Extractor. — The question of rally be accepted as proof sufficient, but having the rather expensive machine for we should prefer in all cases to see her

emptying combs without breaking them

majesty.

This being so, the skep may

--called the honey extractor --may be be lifted off and set in a new location, to deferred till experience warrants the be afterwards treated as if it had swarmed expense.

Management - Preliminary. Driving Bees.-- The first concern of

naturally, as before described. Rapid Increase of Stocks.--To those anxious to increase their stocks as much

as possible, it is a good plan to rear or

those commencing should be, as soon as purchase spare queens, so as to be able may be best, to get their bees domiciled to introduce one into each skep as soon in the new frame-hives. It is quite easy as it has been removed from its old place

BEE -KEEPING .

165

and queen. In that case the same pro- bees incline to fly too much and to

cess of stocking new hives may be carried dwindle. But left just as they were out at the rate of one every fortnight or after the honey harvest, they have free three weeks during the boney season . ventilation and plenty of room , never In backward and ungenial seasons less get too warm , and stay more at home. must be expected, and ,indeed, it is com- As steady cold weather approaches we mon to leave the skep in place on the

need not be so afraid, and so we choose

first hive until all its brood is hatched such a day as mentioned to make all out, when it is taken and treated as a trim and comfortable. honey super. Armed with smoker or other quieting Purchasing Swarms. Some may agent, a bag of chaff, a quantity of extra prefer, or have no alternative but to pieces of carpet or other quilt materials, -

make a start by purchasing swarms and some flat cakes of “ bee candy," we wherewith to stock the new hives. These

set to work.

Hives still containing bees

do not arly so , arly as possible, on every comb, should be secured say by the first week of June in the south disturb further than to lay a cake on top of Scotland, and a fortnight later in the of frames, cover closely with several

north. They ought to weigh not less thicknesses of quilt, and over all, if the than 4 lb. , an ordinary top skep swarm , make of the hive permits, pour a few though 6 or 7 lb. are usually had in a inches of loose chaff, or stuff in a chaff cushion. The doorway is left full width, swarm from a good frame stock. Collecting Driven Bees.-- Still others

may adopt the more economical though

or at any rate not under six inches long. The candy is given not solely to in

more troublesome plan of gathering up crease the supply of food, but because it

driven bees in the autumn, and by join- supports the coverings, so that when ing these into large colonies, and feeding eaten away there is a nice warm cavity

rapidly with bottle syrup, get them into left that forms the best kind of win good shape before winter. Any one hav- ter passage from one frame space to ing learned the art of “ driving,” and another. Weak Hives. - Weaker hives, contain having the soft side of cottagers who are going to brimstone their bees, may gen- ing bees on six frames only, or under, are

erally have them for the trouble of driv- contracted by removing all the outside ing, though in most localities the cot- beeless combs, inserting division -boards tagers are getting too knowing to give next the remaining combs, and filling the away what they may as well learn to use spaces with chaff. Otherwise they are to their own benefit.

treated as before.

In whatever way obtained, let us sup-

Very small stocks are united two and

pose the reader to have in the autumn

two, though this should have been done

several good stocks of bees in modern

in autumn .

We would now indicate in the

For the rest, no further attention is

order of the seasons the system and treat

required till spring, unless one chooses to

ment we consider best for him to adopt.

keep the snow well cleared away from the ground in front, and to watch on sunny days when the snow is soft, keep

hives.

Wintering.

soft Secret of Success. — The great secret ing the bees at home by heaping This shades

of successful wintering is in keeping the snow over the entrances.

bees in as quiet a state and as constant and cools the hive, and affords the neces a temperature as possible. Of course sary water to the bees that are trying to abundant supplies are the first considera- get out to find it. tion to this end, the next is careful pack-

Bees not shut in.-On no account

ing and ventilation, and the third is to should bees be actually shut in, as they let them rest free from the least disturb- often get into such a state as to suffocate. Only tempt them to stay at home when Preparing for Winter.- A warm day it is dangerous for them to be out.

ance till the first of spring.

late in November is our chosen time for

Experiments.- Quite probably the

arranging hives for the winter. If made experiments we are conducting in the

very comfortable long before this, the line of cellar-wintering, or by burying the

BEE -KEEPING .

166

hives in pits or clamps, may result in an stimulation, and thus the energies of the improved system in that direction, which queen are conserved for keeping up the is so much in favour in America .

population till the close of the harvest. Stocks stimulated to undue exertions

Spring Treatment .

early in the season are more apt to swarm

Provided all goes well in wintering, excessively, and thus to imperil the honey

there is really nonecessity for disturbing returns. Continuous Treatment. — As the the bees during early spring. Breeding resumed . — They naturally bee-keeper's summer may be considered

recommence breeding about the New as commencing with the swarmingseason, Year, and their stores thereafter more or say from June ist, we may add that

rapidly diminish ; but they ought to have whatever style of treatment may be sufficient left them in autumn to carry adopted, in view of getting hives filled

them through till the first new honey is with bees and brood, should be continued to be got, or till gooseberry and fruittrees are in bloom .

without intermission till that period ar rives.

Supplementing the Winter Food.

That is, care must be taken to

see that once the bees have got started

--Wherever there is any doubt as to the in earnest to brood -rearing there should supply of food , it is our custom to take a

peep into all stocks on the first fine day when bees are flying. We are loath to disturb the winter packing, which is of most value when the bees are breeding with diminished numbers in spring. We therefore simply raise the packing and

be suffered no check from want of food or room. Both should be given in moder

ation, yet continuously; when plenty of natural stores are coming in, leave well alone, but supplement these either by bottle -feeding whenever the weather is unsuitable for outdoor work, or by un

quilts along the back edge of the combs, capping portions of their sealed stores when it is possible to see whether there every day or two. remains still a quantity ofsealed comb in Pea-meal may be given as an equivalent at least the most of the frames. If so , or supplement to natural pollen when all is well so far as food is concerned, that is deficient, the meal being sprinkled and it is too soon to inquire into other on shavings in an old skep set to face the sun in a sheltered corner.

matters.

Room

need

Where there is an evident deficiency only be given where combs have previ

in food, there must be a more thorough ously been removed, by adding one at a examination , and any want supplied, time in the centre of the brood -nest, as either by giving back any combs of the bees are able to cover all closely. So

honey reserved for this purpose, or by soon as the hive is full of bees from side laying a cake of candy under the quilt. to side, with brood in every frame, the Liquid Food.— Liquid food should summer treatment should begin. not be given unless in desperate cases, Summer Treatment.

when it may be poured into empty combs and hung in the hive. It should previously be matter for Stimulating Stocks. — Later on, say consideration and decision whether the

when willows are in bloom , it will be of various stocks are to be worked for ( 1 ) advantage to contract the brood -nest by increase, or ( 2 ) honey. Working for Honey . - If the latter, removing all beeless combs and closing

in the division boards, though many it has to be decided whether it is for ex think it better to leave them alone. All tracted or comb honey. Every prepara depends on whether the district one tion should be made accordingly. New for very early honey, making it necessary hives, ready fitted to receive swarms, to stimulatethe bees by every means, so should be prepared beforehand, upper

as to come to full strength before the storeys filled with spare combs or founda. honey seasonopens.

With us the clover tion for extracting purposes, and crates

is the main harvest, commencing on an ready fitted with guided sections for comb average about the 15th June, and our average stocks usually come to swarming

honey.

strength by that time without any special

If increase be wanted, some such plan

Working for Increase of Stocks.

BEE-KEEPING.

167

should be followed as indicated on pre- thehoney season seems to warrant. That liminary management. is, from experience we know about what Extracted or Comb Honey . - As to date the honey - flow , say from clover,

whether one should follow after getting usually ceases, and we take care not to extracted or comb honey, each must dis- give more accommodation than is likely cover for himself which is likely to be to be made use of.

more saleable in his district. Generally, This is important when finished comb however, we may indicate our opinion honey is wanted, though of little conse that extracted honey is likely to be more quence if extracted honey is the object. in demand than comb. They are rapidly The latter can be taken at the close of approaching each other in price, the the season, whether in full-finished combs

former being obtained with more ease and certainty, and in perhaps a third

or not .

Securing well-ripened Honey . - To

greater quantity. It is in demand all get either extracted or comb honey well the year round, while comb unfortunately ripened and sealed , we require at least season has its “ .” The Writer's Practice.- Our own

two upper storeys or two crates of sections to each hive. As soon as the first put on

practice, adopted after many years' experience, is as follows : We work for honey, but allow a moderate natural increase, partly to ensure our having old queens replaced by young ones, partly to keep up our stock , so as to permit of doubling up weak colonies, and partly to

room , we raise it, placing the empty one between. If the latter have foundation only, the bees are compelled to store all their honey for a day or more in the upper storey, which generally ensures its being well finished .

allow the bees a little of their own way,

is well forward , and the bees need more

Produce.

Towards the close of the

which seems to keep them in better heart season we place the empty tier upper for work.

That is, we do all we can most, as the other has more chance of

towards getting honey, and in doing so to prevent swarming ; but as occasional swarms will come off in spite of us, we do not try to thwart the bees by returning these,but make the best of them, by giving them a good start on combs ready built,

being finished off when left next the brood -nest. By careful calculation, and with favourable weather, we thus get from good stocks from 50 lb. to 100 lb., and often more, of nice comb honey each, and from others 150 lb. to 200 lb of ex tracted honey. or on combs of brood and foundation . For details of how to manipulate the If second swarms issue, we cut out all bees and combs when harvesting the royal cells and return the swarm . By placing first swarms on the old honey , or of using the extractor, and

stool, they are made stronger by the old preparing the honey for show or market, bees returning to their accustomed place,

and for other minute matters, the reader

and the removed stock is so weakened must seek in books and journals specially that it does not often swarm a second dealing with bees. time. Sometimes we break up the latter, giving nearly all the bees to the new swarm , and dividing the combs of brood amongst those not yet at full strength .

Autumn Management. In many districts the autumn treat ment includes part of the honey harvest

Of course we cut out royal cells, in case they may tempt the other stocksto swarm .

– viz., the heather. Heather Honey.–Usually a week or

Controlling Swarming.-- To prevent ten days intervene between the close of swarming, or at least reduce it to the the clover season and the time that

lowest as a natural impulse, we find it heather yields. generally enough to see that the bees

Where this most mag

nificent of all honeys is to be had, special

have plenty of doorway and plenty of pains must be taken to secure it. room for storage and for clustering in-

The secret is, barring the weather , to

side.

have only strong stocks, and to make

This room we give them by tiering on upper storeys of combs for extracting, or

during the earlier season . Where swarm

them warmer by soft coverings than

of crates of sections, and this as long as ing has been allowed ad libitum , neither

ROTATION OF CROPS.

168

as a result of a poor season , or of the in the way of surplus. Stocks previously honey having nearly all been stored in worked for extracting are best of all. supers, it should be given rapidly as They have always more bees left than soon as the supers are taken away, and those which have been worked for comb. before the time of dearth and robbery swarms nor old stocks are fit to do much

There should be some change in the has come.

plan of working these - that is, comb Queenless stocks should be attended honey only should be sought from heather. to, weak hives united till strong, and Heather honey will not leave the combs all left to settle till the time for winter in the extractor, but has to be broken treatment arrives.

up and pressed ; nor does it sell so well Food for Bees.

as in the comb.

Liquid Food for Bees. — Boil together than the bees can crowd comfortably 5 lb. white sugar and i quart of water ; into, as the nights are chilly, causing a few minutes' boiling will suffice. It is them sometimes to desert the supers. improved by boiling with it a pinch of There should be no more room given

After Honey Harvest. — The general cream of tartar. autumn treatment for stocks after the

for autumn.

This is the proper food

Spring food may have a

honey harvest consists mainly in doing half more water, and the tartar omitted. all one can to keep the bees quiet, and Sugar -cake for Bees in Winter. so prevent robbing. Boil together 5 lb. white sugar, less than Bees Plundering. — Not a drop of a pint of water, and a pinch of cream of honey or bit of comb should be left any- tartar, until a drop cooled on a plate where within their reach, for if once stiffens so as to draw out as a thread .

started, the bees get on at once for or Take off the fire and set in a cool place, in plunder ; and so vicious do they then

old water, stirring briskly until

become, that the apiary is a place to be the mass begins to cool and turn white dreaded by man and beast. As soon as and thick. Then pour out on thin sheets

all surplus honey is taken, and that under of paper laid in flat dinner-plates. When every precaution, all hives should be cold, the cakes should be white and firm ,

closely though not warmly covered , door- yet not hard. ways contracted a little, and left alone Spring Food.-- For early spring food , a handful of flour for each pound of

till early winter.

Necessary operations should be done sugаr may be stirred in shortly before towards evening,when flying bees have pouring out. These cakes should be all gone home. If food be needed, either slipped under the quilts, paper side up.

ROTATION

OF

CROPS.

Necessity is the mother of invention . ened system of farming. We have here “ Rotation ” in cropping was first intro- the crudest and most elementary form duced because it was found the land of “rotation ” —a period of continuous

would no longer yield a profitable re- cropping followed by a period of enforced turn of the same kind of crop. Virgin Soils.

- Thus

in

idleness. countries

Object of Rotation .

The rotation of

newly settled the virgin land is cropped crops is an economical, not an absolute continually with cereals until it will no or scientific, necessity. With the know

longer give aprofitable return. It is then ledge of plant physiology, of thehabits abandoned, lies in absolute neglect for a number of years, regains in this period of rest some of its lost fertility, and is again made to yield profitable crops, this time under a more liberal and enlight-

of different forms of plant-growth, and of the manuring of land now at the com mand of the farmer, it cannot be said to be an absolute impossibility to grow good crops of the same kind on the same

ROTATION OF CROPS.

169 land year after year. This indeed is formation bearing on the rotation of carried out in practice in certain cases- crops has already been given. The table as, for instance, where the land is under on page 63 states the amounts of the

permanent pasture and meadow - hay, different elements of plant-food removed and on the experimental ground at by the various farm crops. Here we Rothamsted, where continuous crops of at once see the importance of alternat

and barley have long been grown ing the crops. The turnip crop, for in wheat with success . stance, removes from three to five times

But the practical farmer desires, not to as much potash, and from seven to eight produce a certain result at whatever cost times as much lime,as the cereal crops, it may entail, but to raise crops which while these latter absorb ten or twelve

will leave him a profit.

The growing times as much silica as turnips.

By

of crops in rotation is one of the most alternating these crops, therefore, the effectual and universal agencies employed

exhaustion of the soil is deferred, and

for this purpose. It affords facilities for its natural resources turned to better clearing the land of weeds, enables the account. farmer to husband and turn to better

And there is more to be considered

account the fertility in the soil, and thus than the actual quantities of plant-food

economises and cheapens the entire pro- removed from the soil. It is well known duction of the farm .

that the fertility of the soil is much af

By growing crops in well - arranged fected by the characteristics and habits rotation, instead of having each crop

of growth of the different crops.

grown continuously on the same land, the Range of Roots. Some of the farm farmer can not only greatlyincrease the crops have long roots which penetrate

production but alsomaterially lessen the deeply into the subsoil,and others have outlay for manures, at the same time shorter roots which ramify nearer the

maintaining, if not indeed raising, the surface. The former, such as red clover, fertility of the soil. lucerne, mangel, and wheat, draw from

Thus, therefore, rotation of crops is the subsoil nourishment which would a fundamental principle in successful there be beyond the reach of such shal agriculture.

low - rooted plants as barley, turnips,

“ Reasons ” for Rotation. The con- potatoes, and white clover. And thus, ditions which render it desirable to grow by alternating deeply rooted and shallow

crops in rotation instead of continuously rooted crops, the subsoil and surface are,-1) that while all plants tend to ex- soil are made to contribute in turn to

haust the soil, they do so in different the produce of the farm , thus giving a degrees; (2 ) that all plants do not ab- greater yield than would be derived from stract the same kind of ingredients or in the continuous growth of plants with the equal proportions; (3) that the habits same range of roots. of growth differ greatly in plants, some Grassand Soil Nitrogen.- Practical

searching for their food down into the farmers know well that when land lies subsoil, and others feeding in the surface

for three or four years under grass and

layers — some occupying the ground for clover, it becomes enriched with ash con a short time and others for a long ; (4) stituents and nitrogen, and suitably pre that the “ crop residues ” of

crops differ

pared for cereal crops. The deep search

materia and (5),that various ing rootsofthe andclover kinds lly; of plants differentlythe affect the from the subsoil grasses ash constit which, uents, sdraw growth of weeds and the presence of if consumed by animals , are returned to the surface of the land in the dung. In accordance with these conditions, Then in the surface soil nitrogen is col

insects.

the systems of rotations pursued have

lected both from the subsoil and the at

been arranged, modified, of course, by mosphere, and is held there chiefly in the

of vegetable matter and humus, local circumstances as to climate, soil, form which the succeeding cereal crops from and outlet or demand for the produce. Ingredients Removed by Different will derive appropriate food. Crops. In the chapter on “ Fertility of Moreover, grass land not only gathers Soils," Divisional vol. i. p . 56, much in- increased supplies of nitrogen to the sur

170

ROTATION OF CROPS.

face soil, but also conserves its nitro- poverished for wheat by the growth of gen better than does bare land, for it beans, for wheat after beans will be a far is now well established that the loss of

better crop than wheat after wheat, thus

nitrates in drainage is reduced to a affording a striking example of the advan minimum when the land is covered by vegetation.

tages of a rotation .” 2

Period of Growth . — The period of

Humus. - By being kept under grass growth and the season of the

year dur

for a time land becomes enriched in ing which the crop occupies the ground humus, an element of great value in soils. also have a bearing upon soil fertility

It consists of decayed vegetable matter, and the most economical rotation.

and "acts effectually as a cement in sandy soils, holding the particles together. Humus is the principal nitrogenous ingredient of soils. A black soil, rich in humus, is sure to be also rich in ni-

It

will be seen from the table on page 63, Divisional vol. i. , that wheat requires much less nitrogen than turnips, and yet it is well known in practice that the liberal application of nitrogenous manure

trogen ; a soil destitute of humus will is much more essential for wheat than for contain scarcely any nitrogen. The fer- turnips. This arises from the difference

tility of virgin soils is largely due to in the periods and seasons of the growth the nitrogenous humus which they con

of the two crops.

tain .” 1

We have seen that nitrification, the Thus, it is easily understood how land production of nitrates in the soil, is most

becomes enriched for cereal crops by active during summer and autumn, that lying for a time in grass, and why it it becomes greatly diminished or ceases

is easier to maintain fertility with a altogether during winter and spring, and rotation embracing three or four years' thatthe loss of nitrates by washing away grass than with grass for one or two in drain -water is greatest in autumn and winter.

years.

Thus the cereal crops grow and

Leguminous Crops and Soil Nitro- occupy the ground just at the time when gen . - It has been proved conclusively the soil is comparatively deficient of that leguminous crops possess in a re nitrates. “ The autumn and winter rains

markable degree the valuable property of have frequently washed out the greater being able to accumulate nitrogen in the part of the nitrates contained in the soil surface soil. They not only draw nitro- before the growth of the cereal crop com gen from the subsoil , but also to an ex- mences, and nitrification in the soil has

ional, though still uncertain extent, not long recommenced its activity in the cept from the atmosphere. “Red clover, summer months when the crop becomes says Mr Warington , “ is a striking instance of this action . Its roots extend further perhaps than those of any other farm crop, save lucerne and sainfoin, and being biennial it has a long period of growth. The accumulation of nitrogen

too mature to appropriate fresh supplies of nitrogen . Continuous wheat cropping thus results in a gradual impoverishment of soil nitrogen by winter drainage, over and above the nitrogen actually removed in crops, and thus necessitates a consider

at the surface, in the form of roots, stub- able application of nitrogenous manure ble, and decayed vegetable matter, is in if fertility is to be maintained . the case of a good crop of clover so con“ A root crop sown early in summer , siderable, that the whole of the above- on the other hand, has at its disposal all

ground growth may be removed as hay, the nitrates that would be available for

and the land yet remain greatly enriched wheat or barley, and in addition , the with nitrogen, and in an excellent con- large supply of nitrates formed in the dition for producing a crop of wheat.” soil during summer and early autumn. Again : “ If crops of winter beans and A great part of the nitrates which would winter wheat are grown on similar un- be lost by drainage during cereal cultiva manured land, the bean crop will gene- tion is thus assimilated and retained by rally contain twice as much nitrogen as a root crop, and such crops are found to

wheat. The land is not, however, im- stand in less need of nitrogenous manure i Chem . of the Farm , 17.

? Ibid ., 60 and 63.

ROTATION OF CROPS.

171

Logs and Conservation of Nitro By consuming the roots on the land the nitrates collected by the gen . - It has been seen that the loss of

than cereals.

crop are returned to the soil in the form nitrates in drainage water is greatest of animal manure, and the land thus pre- when the soil is bare of vegetation in pared to carrya cereal crop . Similar re- the autumn and early winter. Thus by marks might be made respecting other growing only short-lived crops such as growth extends cereals the land would be subject to green crops whose" active 1

great deterioration in these seasons. · On We thus again see additional reason the other hand, by growing crops such for the alternation of grain and root as grass and roots, which occupy the into the autumn.

land during the entire year, or on through

crops.

Accumulation of Nitrogen.

- We the summer, autumn, and greater part of

have seen that grass and leguminous crops winter, the nitrogen of the soil is con tend to enrich the surface soil in nitrogen. served and kept in the surface soil A portion of this increased nitrogen may ready for the crops of the succeeding bedrawn from the subsoil, and another year. portion received from the rain which falls As a special means of conserving soil

on the ground. A third source is the nitrogen and preventing waste in drain

free ammonia of the atmosphere, but to age, it is a good planto sow mustard, what extent the soil and the plants grow- rape, rye, or turnips broadcast on the ing upon it are able to absorb nitrogen stubbles just after the grain crop has from that source is still a matter of un-

been removed.

Mr Warington states the amountof nitrogen supplied by the rainfall at " say 4 or 5 lb. per acre," and as to the probable amount directly absorbed

grow up rapidly, and will hold in its roots, stems, and leaves much of the nitrogen that might otherwise have been washed away through the drains. The

certainty.

This green crop will

from the atmosphere he says: “ In the green crop may be fed off by sheep or four-course manured rotation upon the ploughed in late in winter or early in heavy land at Rothamsted, the nitrogen spring. Weeds. — The cleaning of the land and annually removed in the crops, on an averageof thirty-six years, has exceeded keeping it free from weeds are important

by 34 lb. the quantity supplied in the considerations in arranging the scheme manure.

If the crops on this experi- of cropping. Some crops encourage the

mental rotation should be permanently growth of weeds more than others, and it maintained in quantity , of which at pre- is only with certain crops that the land sent we cannot be certain , we must con- can be submitted to a thorough cleaning.

clude that these 34 lb. of nitrogen, With cereals and grasses it is very diffi together with the unknown additional cult, indeed almost impossible, to keep quantity lost as nitrate by drainage, have down weeds. The root crops, on the been annually derived from the atmos- other hand, afford excellent opportunities

phere - partly as rain , but mostly by for the thorough cleaning of the land as direct absorption by soil or crop. It ap- well as for its perfect tillage. pears possible, therefore, that the amount

In this respect the root crop takes the

of nitrogen contributed by the atmos- place of the once esteemed but now dis phere in the course of a rotation may be counted bare fallow, and apart from its much more considerable than is usually value in itself the root crop fulfils a

supposed, but 2the subject is at present highly important function in the prevail

very obscure.”

ing systems of rotation .

It not only

It would seem that leguminous plants, affords admirable facilities for the thor by means of excrescences on their roots, ough cleaning and tilling of the soil, but possess in an especial degree the power also supplies a convenient opportunity to appropriate nitrogen from the atmos- for introducing farmyard dung and other phere, and thus leave the soil richer in manure to the soil. nitrogen than it was before.

An important “ Crop Sickness .” consideration in the rotation of crops is

1 Chem. of the Farm , 61 .

the fact that when certain crops are

? Ibid ., 66 .

grown continuously or too frequently on

ROTATION OF CROPS.

172

the same field the soil is liable to become that the farm is worked in accordance

what is popularly known as " sick ” of with the rules of good husbandry, the that particular crop. Thus there is the intelligent farmer should be allowed

very stubborn ailment known as “ clover some sickness,” due, it is believed,

times and seasons.

ample scope to vary the rotation with

insects, the presence of which is favoured by the too frequent growing of clover on

rotation to the character of the soil, the

Soil and Rotation . — In adapting the

that particular spot. With turnips there farmer has an excellent opportunity for When the exercise of good judgement and ex grown too frequently on the sameland, perience. It is well known that systems

has been similar experience. the risk of

loss from «

anbury

and of rotation admirably suited for light or

“ finger-and -toe ” would seem to become medium soils might speedily ruin a greater, and to avoid this rotations have farmer on heavy land. Peaty soil, again, been lengthened, by letting the land lie a requires different treatment from chalky year or two longer in grass, or by some

soil.

other variation .

Generally speaking, the crops which preponderate on clayey soils are wheat, beans, and grass — with a growing ten dency for less tillage and more grazing ;

Rotation and Live Stock .-- A judicious alternation of crops is as advantageous to stock -rearing as it is to the soil itself. It provides, for one thing, a greater variety of palatable and nourishing food. It also has a freshening or purifying influence on the soil, which conduces to the wellbeing of live stock. When turnips are grown very fre-

for loamy soils, oats, turnips, potatoes,

barley, and grass seeds. Climate and Rotation . The prevail ing climate must, to a large extent, in fluence the system of cropping. Thus, in the eastern counties of Great Britain , we

quently on the sameland,and consumed have corn -growing alternating with root thereon by sheep, it would appear that culture and clover ; while in the western the land is liable to become foul or districts, with their wet mild climate, we “ stained ,” so that the sheep folded on find a preponderance of the pastoral and it do not thrive properly, becoming sub- dairying elements, for which a greater ject to stomach and bowel derangement, variety and extent of green crops are often even resulting in death , unless an grown, with just enough corn, oats chiefly, immediate change of food and situation to keep the fields in rotation - two-thirds is provided for them . By being put of the farm perhaps being sown out in through

a

course

of cropping, and

permanent pasture.

allowed to lie in grass for two or three

Rotation and Outlet for Produce.

years , this land, which would seem to

It goes almost without saying that the

have become tired of sheep, is found to prudent farmer will

grow the crop which

be almost as fresh and as suitable for he can sell to best advantage. The situa them as ever. Local Circumstances.In the fore-

tion of the farm with regard to market

or outlet for the produce is therefore an going notes we have indicated the chief important element in deciding as to the

considerations which regulate rotation in course of cropping. the abstract. In practice it is found adRotation and Labour.

The question visable to modify the rotation in accord- of labour must likewise be considered by

ance with soil, climate, and outlet for the the farmer in arranging his course of produce. Every farmer should proceed cropping from time to time.

When

upon some well-thought-out plan of crop- labour is scarce and dear, it will at ping, for it is only in this way, assuredly once be seen that the best course for not by any haphazard system , that he will the farmer to adopt is to grow crops

make the most of his land. Yet the in- which require the least amount of la telligent farmer should not be bound, or bour.

To effect this, the extent of root

bind himself, to follow slavishly any par- cultivation will most likely be curtailed, ticular method of rotation, irrespective of and a larger area devoted to grazing variation in seasons or prices of different purposes. commodities. Subject to certain wellIn such circumstances, a system of understood conditions, essential to ensure mixed rotation might be most suitable

ROTATION OF CROPS.

—such, for instance, as taking two white

173

Infield and Outfield . - In most parts

crops in succession on the cleanest of the of this country the arable land was at land when broken out of lea which may one time roughly divided into “ infield " have lain for three or four years. This and “outfield land. The former con

would give plenty of fodder for cattle, sisted of the land within easy reach of

and the supply of turnips may be the farm -steading, and the extent in this “ drawn out” by the economical use of division was regulated chiefly by the artificial foods. Another method would quantity of dung made on the holding. be to reduce the stock of cattle and in-

crease that of sheep. The latter can be fed with fewer turnips than cattle. With a very small allowance of roots

This infield " land was usually cropped thus :

1. Wheat or barley. 2. Oats or barley.

3. Beans or peas.

and a well - balanced ration of chaffed

hay and corn and cake, sheep will thrive All the dung made on the farm was admirably , and also contribute to the applied to this division , and when the quantity of dung was insufficient, or the

fertility of the soil.

Grass and Rotation . — The suitability land became very dirty, it was bare-fal of the soil to carry pasture grasses is another element of importance in the

lowed in small sections.

The “ outfield ” land was cropped on a “starvation " system . It was cropped pasture deteriorates so rapidly after the with oats two or three years in succession,

matter of rotation .

In some soils the

second year as to be practically worthless, and then left for two or three more years while on other soils it maintains a thick under such grass as might grow up luxuriant growth for three, four, or more naturally ; no grass seeds being then years. Thus in the former case the land Sown. A certain portion of this “ out must be sooner returned to the domain field ” land was always under corn, and

of the plough than is necessary with the the dung resulting from the crops grown latter soil,

on the outfield " shifts was applied to

Having thus reviewed in detail the the “infield ” land, so that the latter chief considerations which should in- was sustained at the expense of the fluence the farmer in deciding as to the former.

course of cropping to be pursued, we may

Modern Three -years' Course.

The

follow up with a few typical rotations introduction of turnip culture and the pursued in different parts of the country. use of artificial manures made it possible for the farmer to adopt new methods of Sample Rotations. cropping much superior to the primitive Old Three- field Rotation . - Follow- systems of earlier times. The earliest ing the elementary system of new coun- rotation of turnips was the three-years' tries — a period of continuous cropping course : followed by a time of enforced rest

1. Wheat, barley, or oats.

came the three-field method of cropping,

2. Clover ,

which is still practised in many parts of Germany. It consists of fallow , followed

3. Potatoes, turnips, cabbages, & c.

by wheat, oats, or barley, two-thirds of Wheat prevailed on the good land, and It the land being under cereals, and one- barley and oats on the poorer soils. was was soon found that this rotation third in fallow. In the early development of agriculture, too short. There was too much of the when money was scarce and most of the holding under root crops, and these and payments were made in kind, this system the clover were coming upon the same would allow men whose hands were per-

land too frequently. In some cases the

with the sword clover was omitted, and oats or barley haps bettertheacquainted plough to settle down and followed the root crop. This was also than with begin the life of a tiller of the soil with

objectionable — too exhausting for most

little outlay, followed by a large income. soils. Two-thirds of the land would be always Norfolk Four - course.- Next came under grain, which in those days would the famous Norfolk four-course rotation, amply repay the cost of cultivation. thus :

ROTATION OF CROPS .

174 1. Wheat.

1. Wheat or oats .

2. Turnips and potatoes. 3. Barley or oats.

2. Turnips and potatoes.

4. Clover and grass.

3. Barley or oats. 4. Clover and grass seeds, cut.

5. Clover and grass seeds, grazed .

In most parts of Scotland the first crop is oats instead of wheat.

This method of cropping has much to

This system raises a great quantity of recommend it, affording as it does ample

straw and roots, and is with slight modi- scope for farming at high pressure, and fications practised very largely through- yet keeping the bills for labour and out the country. Indeed it may be taken as the basis of most other rotations.

In this as in the three-years' system it has been found that in most soils the

manures within reasonable bounds. Six - years' Course. A still more

economical system is the six -years' course, in which the land is allowed to lie in

recurrence of clover and turnip crops on grass for three years. The labour bill is the same soil is too frequent, encourag- lessened , and so is that for manure, while ing “clover sickness ," " finger-and-toe, the summer food for live stock is in

and " anbury .” To avert these dangers, creased , and the farming risks diminished

the four - course system may either be all round. With the decline in the price followed with catch - crop variations or of grain and the increase in the cost of extended into a longer course. labour there has been a great increase in Variations of the Four - course.the extent of land left under grass for The most common method of varying the two and three years. Indeed, where the

cropping under this system , without de- land is well suited for carrying grass, it parting from its leading principles, is to is now often left under it for four or alternate swedes, mangels, potatoes, cab- more years. bages, kohl-rabi, &c. , on the root break,

In many parts, however, notably in

so that turnips may be grown on exactly the same spot only once in every eight or twelve years, instead of once in every four years. Then the recurrence of clover may be similarly delayed by substituting

dry districts and on porous soils, the land will not satisfactorily carry grass for more than two years, so that the character of the soil and climate, as well as prices and other influences, has to be con beans, peas, vetches, &c. In some cases sidered in arranging the methods of wheat and barley are taken in succession, cropping. followed by clover for two years, cut the

Varieties of Six - years' Course.

first year and grazed the second, or with On stiff soils with an early climate the

( instead of clover) swedes, after an early following six-years' course is sometimes crop of Italian rye-grass, followed next year by mangels or cabbage. In other cases wheat is followed by winter beans, succeeded by a catch crop of rape and turnips, the third crop being wheat fol

pursued : 1. Wheat. 2. Beans. 3. Fallow .

4. Wheat .

5. Clover, &c. 6. Roots.

lowed by a catch crop of vetches and On medium soils in high condition the winter oats, swedes completing the course. system may be varied thus : On other farms, or on part of the same

holdings, peas take the place of beans,

1. Wheat.

4. Clover, &c.

2. Turnips.

5. Oats .

barley that of wheat in the third year, 6. Potatoes. 3. Barley. and mangels that of turnips. It is, of course, only in southern coun- This, it will be seen, is a heavy course of ties that these catch crops can be grown cropping, requiring liberal and frequent manuring to prevent the exhaustion of to advantage. The most the soil. If the turnips are not con Five - years' Course. effective means of averting the evils of sumed on the land by sheep, it may be the four -course system is to extend the advisable to top-dress the crops of barley rotation by introducing two or more and oats. The five and six years' rotation is pur years' lea. The five-years' course, so extensively pursued in Scotland and other sued with numerous other variations. parts of the country, is as follows :-

The following are examples of the latter :

ROTATION OF CROPS . No. 1 . Year. Ist. Potatoes.

2d.

No. 3.

No. 2 .

Oats. Wheat.

Wheat.

Oats. Beans or

Yo.

175

No. 5.

4.

Oats. Roots .

No. 6 .

No. 7

Wheat.

Turnips.

Wheat. Roots .

Barley.

Wheat. Beans.

Wheat. Beans.

Roots . Oats .

Clover and

Wheat.

Barley .

Clover and

Clover and grass .

Clover and grass.

Pasture.

Oats.

Barley.

potatoes.

3d. Turnips.

Roots.

4th. Barley or

Barley.

Wheat. Roots .

Wheat.

oats ,

5th. Clover and Clover and Wheat or grass . barley. grass. Clover and grass.

Pasture .

6th . Pasture.

grasses.

Pasture.

grass.

The first of the above is pursued on for in the courses of cropping pursued many farms in the south of Scotland and throughout the United Kingdom there is elsewhere. Nos. 2, 4, and 7 are met almost endless variety. Enough has been

with in the midland counties of England said to enforce the importance of every and elsewhere ; No. 3 is the prevailing farmer considering carefully his own East Lothian six -course ; No. 4 is found peculiar circumstances as to soil, climate, in the west of Scotland and other parts ; market, supply of labour, &c. , and thus

and No. 6 on strong soils in Bedford and be able to pursue such a course of crop ping as will give him the best results.

other English counties. Seven - years' Course.— There are

General Rules.

also many varieties of seven -years' rota

In deciding as to the course of crop three or four years' grass in this course. ping to be pursued, the following general In potato -growing districts of Scotland rules should be kept in view : (1 ) crops the following course, or one similar, is which have deep penetrating roots

tions.

In Scotland there are usually

1. Oats or potatoes.

4. Turnips.

should be followed by those having shallow wide -spreading roots ; (2 ) crops

2. Potatoes or beans.

5. Barley or oats.

of the same order should not too fre

often pursued : 6. Clover and grass. 7. Pasture,

3. Wheat.

quently succeed each other ; ( 3) crops

which encourage the growth of weeds

Others take in succession oats, potatoes, and prevent the cleaning of the land turnips, and barley, followed by clover should be separated by as wide intervals as the circumstances of the farm will

and grass for three years.

A seven -years' course pursued with permit ; (4 ) crops which are grown for success on some good farms in the north of Scotland is as follows : I. Oats.

4. Oats,

2. Barley.

5. Clover and grass.

3. Turnips.

6.

do .

seeds should be succeeded by those grown for their roots or foliage, and which are largely consumed on the land on which they are grown.

do.

Food -supply.- An important object

7. Clover and grass.

to bear in mind is to so order the suc

For the barley crop after oats a light cession of crops as to provide an even

dressing of dung is spread in the autumn and continuous supply of food for the and covered with a break -furrow .

In stock , so that the farmer may not be

spring the land is harrowed and ploughed under the necessity of one year buying a large number of stock, and next year

with a shallow furrow,

reducing the number. pursued on the greatly of cropping follows A course Distributing Labour. : Yorkshire is as

wolds of

1. Wheat. 2. Roots.

4. Peas. 5. Roots.

3. Barley.

6. Oats .

Another

point of great importance is the distri bution oflabour over the year-- growing

crops which require labour at different times, and avoiding an excess of those Others think it better to let oats follow which press for labour at one particular the clover and grass, and take wheat in season, leaving the rest of the year with comparatively little to employ the farm the sixth year, after roots. 7. Clover and grass.

Many more samples might be given,

hands.

176

REALISATION .

REALISATION. PHYSICAL GEOGRAPHY OF FARMS. the plains are largely occupied with arable culture.

Mountain - farming consists of

Now that the pupil-farmer has acquired two subdivisions — sheep andcattle breed a competent knowledge of farming to con-

ing. The farming of the plains consists

duct a farm on his own account, by hav-

of raising corn and green crops, and the

ing become acquainted with the entire rearing and feeding of live stock accord routine of operations throughout the

ing to local circumstances.

four seasons, and by having studied the instructions contained in the preceding pages, as a guide to anticipate the several operations as they succeed each other, the

pupil-farmer, when he has made up his mind to farm on his own account, must determine which of the modes of farming he would wish to follow . To enable him

Now the

time has come to look out for a farm for

to determine, he should be made ac

himself. Looking for a Farm .

quainted with the peculiarities of each

But before mode, and then he can fix upon that doing that, he will have to aquire a which best suits his capital and views knowledge of subjects somewhat differ- in life. ent from merely conducting a farm , and Hill - farming. — To begin with hill which are essential for him to know. or mountain farming : Sheep can occupy These subjects are, to judge of land, the whole range of grass from the moun

to bargain for a lease, and to provide tain -tops to the plains. Cattle limit their stocking for the farm. On taking posses- range of grass from the secondary or lower sion of the farm, he may have more to do mountain -tops to the plains. Hence the than these. He may have to enclose and highest mountain -range is occupiedsolely

drain the farm, and to erect buildings bysheep, and by appropriate breeds, the He should know the correct Blackfaced and Cheviot, and this consti

upon it.

principles upon which the breeding and tutes the first class of pastoral farms. rearing of the domesticated animals are From the high elevation of these sheep founded. These particulars are as yet farms, they are necessarily subjected to

unknown to the pupil-farmer, but he much wind and rain, occasioning both wet must become acquainted with them ; and and cold ; and were it not that the tops of he will now proceed to acquire them . mountains face different directions-one Diversity of Farms and Farming. part affording shelter and comparative -The farms of the United Kingdom

warmth, while the opposite may be ex

occupy every available space of ground, periencing the fiercest onsets of the ele from the tops of the highest mountains ments such grass- land could not be to the sea-margin-the highest and the shaped into farms, nor occupied by even

lowest level affording food for our domes- themost hardy breed of sheep. ticated animals. In such a diversity of Configuration of Hill - farms . - On level, the physical features of the farms looking at such a farm with the view of must present diversified aspects, and taking it and occupying it in comfort,

farms occupying such diversified aspects the farmer should see that the ground must impose diverse modes of farming. should have diversified aspects, and not The highest crowns of the mountains lie in one long stretch of level or of cannot be farmed in the same manner

inclination to the S. or N .; because in

as the land along the sea -margin ; and winter even the S. face of a hill will accordingly we have many methods of be covered deep with snow , while the farming, each of which has its distinc- N. is almost clear, which is mostly the tive character.

case when a storm

comes from the N.

The more obvious diversities of farm- On steep slopes the snow cannot lie to ing are that on the mountains and that on the plains. The mountain -farms are

any great depth. Geology of Hill - farms. — The geo

chiefly under permanent grass ; farms on logical structure of the surface should

PHYSICAL GEOGRAPHY OF FARMS. be

considered .

Where débris

covers

177

farms at intermediate elevations - upon

rock the subsoil will be porous and the the best haugh -ground, and on the slopes

grass green , with little heather ; and adjacent thereto — and commodious stead where no débris occurs,the rock will be ings set down, both cattle and sheep covered with peat-earth and heather. might be reared with advantage both to The rocks on such farms are generally

the tenant and the land, inasmuch as,

of the primary formation; and where when the grass is managed in summer granite or clay -slate prevails, débris may by a proper admixture and distribution be looked for, from the action of the of stock , it affords a larger quantity of

atmosphere on them ; but neither gneiss food for cattle and sheep than for either nor mica-slate affords débris, and are alone, and with less waste. Sheep follow covered only with peat - earth, which and bite the grass closer than cattle, and bears little but heather. the aftermath springs up quickly after Intermediate

Elevations.

Since sheep.

sheep can occupy the whole range of To derive the greatest advantage from grass, and cattle only from the lower such a farm , the arable land should be

hills to the plains, it follows that both drained, and the grass enclosed, to con sheep and cattle may be reared on the fine the stock in one enclosure until the second description of pastoral farms. grass grow in another. The surface is diversified with large Exposure. — Such an arable pastoral round - backed hills, with long hollow farm should have one S. exposure. The dells, and suited to afford good shelter direction of the valley in which the

Should these hollows be ex- steading is situated is a point worth panded into valleys having considerable noting ; the strongest winds are from

to stock .

breadth, and abundance of haugh -land

the S.W., and the greatest colds from

along the banks of a stream , they will the N.E.- every valley running S.W. to most likely be well suited to the rearing N.E. will be exposed both in winter and of cattle, by themselves or with sheep ; summer. but where narrow and steep valleys prePlanting for Shelter . - A plantation vail, sheep would most probably suit thrown across the valley above and better than cattle. Cattle and Sheep Mixed or Sep-

another below the arable land would

screen the steading and the farmhouse, - As a rule, instead of rearing while a high hill on the N. would form both cattle and sheep on the same farm , a good screen. either is preferred according to the conArable Farms. Upon the slopes arate.

figuration of the ground.

Few stock- from the foot of the lower mountains

masters desire to be troubled with both into the plains are the sites of arable cattle and sheep breeding where accom- farms. The soil may rest on trap alone,

modation for stock in steadings is sandstone alone, limestone alone, or sand

limited, and variety of winter food not stone and limestone disrupted by projec abundant. Features of Intermediate Farms.

On reviewing such a farm , the farmer should see that it is well provided with grass , which it will be if the subjacent rocks are of slaty structure, as greywacke slate, and slate clay, through the fissures of which the water passes as through a

tions of trap. Such soils are eminently adapted for turnips and grass ; and ac cordingly we find there the mixed, the dairy, the common, and the suburban sys tems of farming. The surface is diversified by undulations, the soil on rock requiring draining ; and where it does not, it con sists of travelled gravel and sand , consti

porous subsoil, and more quickly than tuting débris brought from a distance, through their débris, which contains a and covering the rocks. large proportion of clay. Where such Alluvial Deposits . — On the margins

débris exists are swamps and bogs, which may be dried by drainage, the fall for drains being ample, and drain pipe-tiles affording an easy means of filling them.

of rivers making their way to the sea or to an estuary, large deposits of alluvial clay and of drift-sand are found. Allu vial clay is unfit for the preceding modes

Arable and Pastoral Farming Com- of culture, and is cultivated in a manner

binedVOL. . — Where arable culture exists on peculiar to itself, called carse Mfarming. III.

REALISATION .

178

What constitutes Climate.— Distri It requires draining ; but even after being drained, it is unfit to be worked, bution of heat over the globe constitutes or even meddled with, in winter, in rain,

climate.

General climate is measured

from the equator to the polar circles in aluminous character. It will grow tur- zones, which are classified into the torrid, nips after being drained, but will not temperate, and frigid — names indicative of different degrees of temperature. receive sheep upon it in winter. cannot be pastured in summer in a wet The Zones. The torrid zone includes snow, or frost, on account of its unctuous

season , the surface being poached with the beasts' feet.

It is devoted to the

the space inscribed by the ecliptic, ex tending to 23° 28' on each side of the

raising of corn, straw , and hay, which it equator, a belt of 46° 56' in breadth . It

grows abundantly, and is well adapted is the hottest part of the globe, the sun for soiling cattle in hammels in summer being over the zenith,and the tempera upon the clover which it grows in luxu- ture ranging from 84.2 ° to 78.8° Fahren It is pre-eminently the wheat

heit. A temperate zone lies on each side of the torrid , embracing a range of lati The sand - drift is cultivated for root tude in each hemisphere of 43° 4', and crops, and affords short sweet pasture extending to latitude 66° 32', the tem riance. soil.

to sheep, and is the opposite of carse perature varying from 78.8° to 39.9º. The frigid zones each comprehends as Conditions Regulating Rent. - Be- many degres from the poles as the torrid

farming

sides these aspects of farms, other circum- zone extends from the equator---namely , stances affect their value. The land may 23° 28', the temperature varying from

have a steep inclination, and require in- 39.99 to 31 °. Within 10° of the poles creased labour to work it. The soil may the temperature differs little ; and the be too strong or too loose, too wet or too same is the case within 10° of the dry. Its natural condition may be poor. equator. The fields may want water in summer. Temperature and Latitude.-- Thus Water may not be from springs. The the temperature of the air diminishes fences may be too numerous or too gradually from the equator to the poles,

scanty, or in a state of dilapidation. and the diminution is in an arithmetical

The farm may be entirely exposed to the progression. Hence it is calculated that N.

The surface of the fields may be of the annual mean temperature of the

irregular and abrupt. The farm may be months, January is the coldest month in exposed in an open country all round, or all latitudes above 48 °; and that, in lati sheltered on all sides by natural or arti- tudes below that, August is the warmest ficial objects. Coal and lime may be far month. In the N. hemisphere, the tem off, or near at hand. The market town perature rises from about the middle of may be distant or near, and may or may January, slowly at first, more rapidly in not supply manure.

The roads well

April and May, to reach its maximum

placed, kept in good repair, or a railroad

point in July and August, when it begins

within reach.— The effect of all these to fall again until mid - January, when particulars, individually and collectively, it is at its minimum . The difference upon the money value of land, may not in temperature between the hottest and be easily determined ; but that they, as coldest months increases in proportion to well as the market price of produce, must the distance from the equator. At the

have an effect in the value of a farm , is equator the mean temperature is 84.2 °, obvious to every one.

at the ecliptic it is 78.8 °. Temperature and Configuration of Earth’s Surface . — Modifications of tem

perature occur with a difference of con figuration of the earth's surface. Were Climate is too little considered by that surface uniform , the power of the farmers when they are on the outlook for soil to absorb and radiate heat would be CLIMATE .

a farm , and yet yearly experience teaches everywhere alike, and the climate of a them it has a marked effect upon their place would depend on its geographical position : the isothermal lines would all crops.

CLIMATE.

179

be parallel with the equator. But diver- being greater, and in winter to the sity of surface causes the soil to be dry climate of the polar regions .” l in one place and swampy in another ; to

Mean and Actual Temperatures.-

be here a moving sandy desert, and there But annual mean temperatures do not an umbrageous forest—all which cause corresponding varieties in climate, in proportion as the surface becomes heated in different degrees in those different con-

acquaint us with the climate which affects the products of the farm. Mean temper atures are derived from observations made

ditions.

on thermometers placed in the shade. But as our crops are not placed in the

It is the radiation of heat from the earth's surface that warms the air, and not the direct rays of the sun . In penetrating great continents from the seacoast, the temperature in summer and winter becomes extreme. An island, à peninsula, and the sea-coast experience a more temperate and equable climatethe summers less sultry, the winters more mild - than a continent. One of the grand characteristics of a maritime cli-

shade, and are exposed in the day to the sun's light and heat, and at night to neither, what we desiderate, before we can determine the agricultural climate of any place, is results from thermometers placed amongst the crops and exposed in the open air to the weather day and night, summer and winter. We would thus be acquainted with the actual tem perature of every month in the year during day and night.”

mate is the small difference between the

A comparison of mean temperatures

mean temperatures of summer and win- lets us know which of two places enjoys ter, the uniformity being maintained by the greater heat on the average of days, vicinity to the ocean.

or months, or years , but does not tell us

“ The climates of different parts of the the greatest and lowest degrees of heat

earth's surface are unquestionably owing at them in any season ; and it is evi in great measure to their position with dently the knowledge of these extremes At the equator, that most interests us in the cultivation where the sun is always nearly vertical, of our crops. We know that a given any given part of the surface receives a number of days, at a certain range of much greater quantity of light and heat temperature, are necessary to bring a than an equal portion near the poles ; certain crop to perfection, while we also respect to the sun.

and it is also still more affected by the know that another range of temperature

sun's vertical rays, because their passage would destroy that crop ; but the mean through the atmosphere is shorter than temperature could not tell us whether that of the oblique rays. As far the the crop should thrive or be destroyed. Temperature of Wheat Ripening sun's mean altitude is concerned , it ap-

pears from Simpson's calculations that Thus, in Venezuela, according to Codazzi, the heat received at the equator in the wheat requires 92 days to ripen at Tur whole year is nearly 272 times as great mero, at a mean temperature of 75.6°, as at the poles — this proportion being which is equivalent to 6955 °; and 100

nearly the same as that of the meridian days at Truxillo, the mean temperature heat of a vertical sun to the heat derived being 72.1', which is equivalent to 7210°. at 2372 ° from the poles, in the middle of We may be sure that the wheat at Trux the long annual day at the poles. But illo is not so fine as that at Turmero . Now in Scotland neither of these the difference is rendered still greater by of temperature would suffice to degrees the effect of the atmosphere, which intercepts a greater proportion of the heat at bring wheat to perfection ; for, on wheat the poles than elsewhere. Bouguer has cal- sown in autumn, active vegetation com

culated, upon the supposition of the similarity of the effects of light and heat, that in lat. 45°, 80 parts of 100 are transmitted at noon in July, and 55 only in December.

It is obvious that, at any

individual place, the climate in summer must approach in some degree to the equatorial climate, the sun's altitude

mences at the 14th of February, and it cannot be reaped before the 15th of August — that is, 182 days ; and the mean temperature of Edinburgh being 47.4°, the number of degrees of heat re 1 Polehampton's Gall. Nat. and Art, iv. 42. Jour. Scot .

Soc.

180

REALISATION .

quired to ripen it would be 8625', being that of the season in which the particu

1670° more than requiredat Turmero, and lar crop grows, and which, in truth, com 1415° more than at Truxillo.

prehends the whole temperature of the But if we take the case of spring wheat, growing period of the crop. Plant Growth and Temperature.-the difference will be still greater; for if sown on the 14th of February, it cannot Another conclusion by Boussingault is,

be reaped before the 1st of September, " that plants in general, those of tropical which is 198 days ; and at 47.4° of mean countries very obviously so, spring up,

temperature it gives 9385°, being no less live, and flourish in temperatures that are than 2430° more than required at Tur- nearly the same. In Europe and in N. mero, and 2175 ° than at Truxillo. Bous- America, an annual plant is subjected singault tells us that in Alsace, with a

to climatic influences of the greatest

mean temperature of 59', wheat requires diversity. The cereals, for example, 137 days, or 8083°, to ripen ; at Paris, germinate at from 43° to 47° or 48° ; with a mean temperature of 56 °, 160 they get through the winter alive, making no progress ; but in the spring they shoot mean temperature of 63°, 122 days, or up, and the ear attains maturity at a 7680 ". season when the temperature, which has

days, or 8960 ° ; at New York , with a

In Egypt, on the banks of the Nile, risen gradually, is somewhat steady at with a mean temperature of 70 °, barley from 74° to 78°. requires 90 days, or 6300°, to ripen ; at “ In equatorial countries things pass Santa Fé de Bogota, with a mean tem- differently : the germination, growth, and perature of 58.5 °, 122 days, or 7137 °. ripening of grain take place under de In S. America, maize comes to matur- grees of heatwhich are nearly invariable. ity in 92 days, with a mean temperature At Santa Fé the thermometer indicates

of 81.5°, or 7497 °; or in 183 days, 79º at seed as at harvest time. In Eu with a mean temperature of 59', or rope the potato is planted with the ther

mometer at from 50° to 54°, and it does

10,797 .

At Maracaibo, near the lake of Valen- not ripen until it has had the heats of cia, potatoes require 120 days, with a July and August. Germination, and the mean temperature of 78°, or 9360°, to evolution of those organs by which

ripen ; and at Antisana they require 276 vegetables perform their functions in the days to be in the ground, with a mean soil and in the air, take place at tempera temperature of 52°, or 14,352°. tures that vary between 32 ° and 112 ° ; Duration of Vegetation and Tem- but the most important epoch of their

perature. - Hence Boussingault con- life - ripening -- generally happens within cludes that “ the duration of vegetation much smaller limits, and which indicate

appears to be in the inverse ratio of the the climate best adapted to their cultiva mean temperature ; so that if we multiply tion , if not always to their growth. ... the number of days during which given " In high latitudes the disappearance of plant grows in different climates by the

vigorous vegetation in plants may depend

mean temperature of each , we obtain quite as much on intensity of winter colds numbers that are nearly equal.

The re- as on insufficiency of summer heat.

The

sult is not only remarkable, in so far as equable climate of the equatorial regions it seems to indicate that upon every par- is therefore much better adapted than allel of latitude, at all elevations above that of Europe to determine the extreme the level of the sea, the same plant re- limits of temperature between which the ceives in the course of its existence an

vegetable species of different kinds will attain to maturity.”" 1

equal quantity of heat, but it may find its direct application by enabling us to foresee the possibility of acclimating a vegetable in a country, the mean temperature of the several months of which

In pursuance of this idea in regard to the plants of the farm , the extremes of the temperatures of the ordinary plants may

is known.”

be stated as follows :

Range of Temperature for Crops.

In coming to this conclusion, Boussin yault, we see, does not take the mean

temperature of the year of any place, but

1

Boussingault's Rur. Econ ., 647-59 - Law's

transl.

CLIMATE .

181

Wheat from 78° to 44°

ture from that which is more moist be

Potatoes 11

80 ° , 59 78° 11 52°

Flax

74° . 54°

neath ; and this moisture in its turn is also taken up by the atmosphere, and

Barley

11

11

hence the source of constant cold over

Temperature of Soil and Atmos-

phere. — The temperature of the ground

the surface. Evaporation from Water and Earth .

has a close connection with that of the

Having observed for several days ,"

air immediately above it, and is mainly observes R. Thomson of the Chiswick affected by the extent of the thermomet- Gardens, “ the relative amount of evapo rical variations in the superincumbent ration from a surface of water, and that air in the course of the year. By the from earth completely saturated, in the observations of the Meteorological Society month of August 1849, and under a tem

of Scotland, made at 3, 12, 18, 22, 36 , and perature of 73° to 75 °, the following were 48 inches under the surface, a small in- the results :

crease of temperature is found below 3 inches.

Evaporation from Evaporation from

Below a limited distance the

temperature ceases to be affected by the temperature of the general atmosphere, which is called the point of invariable temperature.

In climes of great con

stancy this point will be found near the surface, and at the equator about the

the water.

inch .

Ist day ad

3d 4th 5th

1

6th

II

7th

· 590 .531 .452 .472

the earth . inch . 16I

.370

.097 .070 .051 .051 .047 .051

3. 308

0.528

.400 .433

surface.

Drainage and Soil Temperature.

Drainage raises the temperature under

the surface — that is, it permits the tem- We see from the above with whatrapidity perature of the atmosphere to penetrate evaporation goes on when the soil is com

deeper into the soil. In one quoted case in pletely saturated . On the first day it is a garden in Hampshire, the temperature more than one-fourth of the evaporation of the heavy soil was raised 15°by drains from the surface of the water ; but it of 4 feet deep. And drainage not diminishes, and at the end of seven days

only permits the heat to penetrate deeper it is scarcely one-seventh. When the sur into the soil, but also enables the soil

face becomes dry, the evaporation is al

to retain it a longer time. It is no matter most inappreciable. On the second day of wonder that drainage should effect this the upper layer of soil is dried under the

change in the soil. Over undrained land above temperature to the depth of one there is a constant evaporation of mois- tenth of an inch ; and at the end of eight

ture, which is as constantly attended by days, plants of which the roots extend

a falling temperature. When the mois- only to the depth of 4 inches begin to ture is removed by drainage, the cause of suffer, and require watering. From some the lower temperature is at the same time observations made by Hales on the removed, and the temperature of the air amount of evaporation from soil, he con rises.

cluded that it was in the proportion of 3

Evaporation . The evaporation of the to 10, as compared with that from a sur water in the ground is caused in this face of water.? way : Rainfalls and penetrates the Elevation and Temperature. - An ground by gravity, and as it is gradually other disturbing cause of the equable absorbed a succeeding rain descends, temperature on the surface of the earth

thrusting the first still lower, until an is the inequality of surface into hill and equilibrium of moisture is established dale. As we ascend a mountain the from top to bottom of the ground. Whilst heat rapidly decreases, and it decreases this is going on, the air takes from the surface a portion of its humidity, and evaporation takes place. The upper layer, dried in consequence, draws mois-

than where it rises in steps, and near

i Garden . Chron. , 20th Oct. 1849.

? Ibid ., Dec. 1849.

more rapidly during the day than during

the night, during summer than during winter, where the mountain is abrupt

182

REALISATION.

characters alone ; but mountains exhibit If we take 59012 feet as an average every variety, from their latitude to the height, under the circumstances men- pole along the meridian of the quadrant. tioned above, to be ascended to obtain a For this reason high mountains situate

the surface than at a distance from it.

decrease of 1 ° of temperature, we shall in the tropics present every variety of not be far from the truth .

This height

corresponds nearly with a depression

climate.

“ If we take each mountain ,”

says Mudie, " which rises above the line

of the barometric column of .7 of an of perpetual snow , as the index to its own meridian , we shall find that each inch .

The cold which prevails among lofty one expresses, by its vegetation, all the mountains is ascribed to

the

dila-

varieties of climate between it and the

tation which the air from the lower re- pole ; and thus those lofty mountains gions experiences in its upward ascent, become means of far more extensive in to a more rapid evaporation under di- formation than places which are situated minished pressure, and to the intensity of near the main level of the sea , and more especially than plains, which, when their

nocturnal radiation .

Perpetual Snow-line.-As the tem- surfaces are nearly flat, have no story to

perature of the atmosphere constantly tell, but the same uniform and monoton diminishes on ascending above the level ous one, for many miles.” “ Upon each

of the sea, the temperature of congela- particular rock of the rapid slope of the tion must be attained at a certain height Cordillera, ” observes Humboldt, “ in above every latitude; consequently moun- the series of climates superimposed in tains which rear their heads above their

stages, we find inscribed the laws of the

limit must be covered with perpetual decrease of caloric, and of the geograph snow . In

the higher regions of the atmosphere the temperature varies but little throughout the year ; and hence in brilliant climates the line of perpetual congelation is strongly and distinctly marked. But in countries remote from the equator the boundary of frost de-

ical distribution of vegetable forms.

Elevation above the surface has the same effect in diminishing temperature

as ascent in latitude. “ Say that the altitude of the mountain under the equa tor," continues Mudie, “ upon which the seasonal action is displayed, is a little

scends after the heat of summer as the more than 3 miles. Then, estimating in influence of winter prevails, thus varying round numbers, 1 foot of altitude on the its position over a belt of some consider- mountain will correspond to about 16,000 able breadth . feet on the meridian — that is, I single Beyond the line of congelation is an- foot of elevation on the mountain is

other, which forms the boundary of the equivalent, in difference of temperature, ascent of visible vapour ; and this point, to about 3 miles, or more nearly 3 min it is obvious, must be less liable to utes of 1 degree in latitude, and there

change than the point of congelation. fore 20 feet are equal to a whole degree ; At the equator the highest point of and when one once arrives at the mean vapour is 28,000 feet, at the pole 3432 temperature of London, 400 feet more of feet, and in N. lat. 54° it is 6647 feet.

elevation will bring one to the climate of

In tracing this point successively along

Lapland.” 3

every latitude, we learn that heat di-

Climate and Plant Distribution .

minishes as we ascend, in an arithmetical progression. Hence it follows that the heat of the air above the surface of the earth is not owing to the ascent of hot strata of air from the surface, but to the conducting power of the air itself.? Mountains and Climatic Varia-

The habitudes of plants being extremely various, one germinating at 38 °, a little above the freezing-point, and another re quiring a heat of 100° or 120 °, the geo graphical distribution of plants is a con sequence of the distribution of heat over

the surface — that is, of climate .

tions. — Plains present only one species

From an extensive series of observa

of climate which differs in its seasonal

tions made by Glaisher with thermome

ters fully exposed to the sky, the means, 1 Kaemtz's Course of Meteoro. , 211-16. 2 Ency. Brit . -— “ Climate," 7th ed.

3 Mudie's World , 132-36 .

CLIMATE.

183

as compared with those on long grass, number of circumstances. were these : At

1 inch above long grass,

!!

3

.

6 I2

I!

+ 2°.76 + 49.39 + 6º.02

!!

.

7°.31 + 70.67 +79.81

24

11

48 96 144

11

1

+ 8 °.26

11

11

+ 8°.27

11

Thus the

radiation of a heated plain of consider able extent, the nature and colour of the rocks, the thickness of the forest, the

moisture or dryness of the soil, the vicin ity of a glacier, the prevalence of par ticular winds, hotter or colder, moister or drier, the accumulation of clouds, are so

many causes which tend to modify the meteorological condition of any place,

Hence the necessity of placing thermo- whatever be its geographical position. In no other part of the globe is the meters at the same height above the ground to render the results compar- diminution of temperature occasioned by a rise of level above the sea more remark

able .

The characteristics able than among equatorial mountain of local climate engage the attention of ranges ; and it is not without astonish the farmer more than thegeneral climate ment that the European, leaving the Local Climate.

of the country which he inhabits. Local burning districts which produce the climate may be defined to signify that banana and cocoa - nut tree, frequently

peculiar condition of the atmosphere, in reaches, in the course of a few hours, regard to heat, moisture, and wind, which barren regions which are covered with prevails in any given place. The diver- everlasting snow . sified character which it displays has been

Pulsations of Temperature.

There

generally referred to the combinedopera- is a phenomenon which has a material tion of several different causes, which are all, however, reducible to these two-

effect on local climate - the darting of

cold pulsations downwards from the distance from the equator, and height upper region of the atmosphere, and of above the level of the sea ; so that latitude warm pulsations upwards from the earth. and elevation form the great basis of the This is different from radiant heat.? law of local climate ; and the modifica-

Elevation and Local

Climate.

tions of this law by other causes have From these facts and reasonings it ap

generally but a partial and limited in- pears that aslight difference of elevation in a mountainous district of this country,

fluence.

The climate of every individual country which has so high a parallel of latitude, may be regarded as local, in reference to may have a considerable influence on that of all other countries in the same

local climate ; and that, other things

Thus islands are remaining the same, one farm which warmer than continents. The E. coast is highly elevated has a greater chance of of all countries is colder than the W. being affected by changes of climate than

degree of latitude.

The W. coast is moister than the E.

Countries lying to the leeward of great ranges of mountains or extensive forests are warmer than those to windward. Small seas are warmer in summer and colder in winter than por-

one on a lower level.

Other Conditions affecting Local

Climate. - Yet, independently of eleva tion, other local influences have a mate rial effect in rendering the position of a farm less desirable ; such as, vicinity to tions of great oceans, they being affected a lake or marsh, or a position at the foot

by the condition of the surrounding land. of a hill or side of a large wood against Low countries are warmer than high, and which the wind generally blows — all level plains than mountainous regions. which objects tend to lower the tem Places situated upon the same moun- perature below that of the country. A position in a long narrow valley, tain -chain , nearly in the same latitude and at the same height, have often very or upon the haunch of a large isolated different climates.

The temperature hill, or in a pass betwixt two mountains

which would be proper to a place is separating plains, is more subject to necessarily modified by a considerable violent winds than the open country, 1 Buchan's Handy Meteoro., 57.

2

Ency. Brit.-— " Climate ," 7th ed.

184

REALISATION .

the wind acquiring an accelerated velo- great influence on all crops.

Playfair

city in such localities.

concluded that the lowest temperature

Desirable and Undesirable Situa- An elevated table-land, being subject to a lower temperature and higher winds than a plain of the same extent on a lower level, is to be

at which corn will vegetate is 40°, and that corn will not ripen below a tem perature of 48º. 48°. He proposed to date the vegetating season from 20th March to the 20th October, and considered 56°

tions. -

as the mean temperature of a good vege The leeward side of a hill or large tating season. It may therefore be as wood, or on flat ground backed with sumed that if the mean temperature at hills and woods to the N. and E., ensure a farm between March and October is avoided.

a higher temperature and less wind than below 56°, it will not mature crops. other parts of the country. The altitude of a place affects its tem

An extensive plain or valley, through perature materially. As we have already which no large river passes, or in which no large lake or wood exists, is very little subject to violent winds. In exposed situations the snow lies

seen, an altitude of 59072 feet makes a difference of 1 ° of mean temperature

making the effect of elevation the same as an increase of latitude.

This is a

long, and the winds are keen ; while in point which is liable to be overlooked sheltered situations the snow soon melts, in the interior of the country, where an and the wind is gentle.

elevation is insensibly gained much be

Variations of Local Climate. — These yond belief. The country may appear

different circumstances produce a sensible pleasant, and everything indicative of a effect on the local climate of a small good climate, but on inquiry it may be country like Great Britain ; and varied found to be 600 or 800 feet above the

as it is in its physical geography, and level of the sea — an elevation in which , surrounded on all sides by water, they if but 1 ° of temperature is below 56 °, have the effect of dividing the country wheat may not ripen, and at 8oo feet into as many climates as there are varie- even barley may be a precarious crop in

ties of surface and differences of position.

most seasons.

At such elevations it is

Such local influences, in most seasons, probable that a crop may now and again have a greater effect on the time of be lost. growth , quantity and quality of the proDaily Range of Temperature.- In

duce of theearth, than the general climate such situations, the daily range of the of the country, although the general cli- temperature is great, descending low at

mate exercises a predominating influence night, and ascending high during the in seasons of excessive heat or rain, day. Every farmer knows that a low and overcome all local influences, so as temperature in the night injures the to stamp a general character over the crops ; and that warm nights following

warm days protect plants from a checked Measuring Altitude.— The height of growth. a farm above the sea is now quickly and In travelling at night in England in

season .

accurately ascertained by means of the summer, nothing strikes a Scotsman so

aneroid barometer, which is small and readily as feeling the night air about as portable. Local Climate and Land Value.-

warm as in a cloudy day in his own Hence, harvests in England

country.

in Scotland. earlier than On looking at a farm , you should keep areRainfall. - The fall of rain

in mind these conditions of climate, an

in the

item of judging land which is often vegetating season is an interesting and

neglected by those who value farms, and important factor -- falling frequently which is as often a cause of discontent

being less favourable to vegetation than

to the tenant after he has found out its larger quantities at longer intervals ;

and a locality much affected by vapour bad climate by dear-bought experience. Let us scan over the particulars which renders the atmosphere in it more cloudy require serious attention on this subject.

than desirable.

Temperature and Produce of Crops.

—The temperature of the locality has

1 Trans. Roy. Soc. Edin . for 18 ) .

JUDGING LAND .

185

The vicinity of the ocean affords an only of bare soil and rocks, or of equable temperature ; and while an in snow . ‫ܠܐ ܙܙ‬ land shallow lake depresses temperature,

It is thus seen that the relation be

a deep one elevates it.

tween local climate and the growth of Wind.--- The direction of the wind different crops is deserving of the most should be studied. A S.W. wind is careful attention. What precise effect it moist and warm , being equatorial and has upon the money-value of land it is oceanic ; a N.E. wind is dry, being con- not easy to determine ; but that land un tinental and polar.

favourably situated as to local climate is

Mountain - ranges affect the direction

of winds.

of less value than that which is not affect

If the range lies across the ed by such local influences cannot admit

direction of the wind , it will divert it

of doubt.

from it ; if it lie along it, it will ac celerate its force.

Mountain - ranges and

JUDGING LAND.

Tempera

ture.- “ But the chief effect mountain

Land cannot be judged of at all sea or in every state. It may be cross them of their moisture, and then covered by snow, and thus shrouded to cause cold winters and hot summers from all inspection. It may be saturated ranges have on the temperature,” says

Buchan, “ is to drain the winds which

sons

in places to the leeward, as compared with rain, when it cannot be walked with places to the windward, by more upon . It may be hard frozen, when it fully exposing them to both solar and will yield to neither foot nor spade. It terrestrial radiation." may be concealed by a corn crop, when Forests and Temperature .— “ Trees its texture cannot be examined. It can are heated and cooled by solar and be best examined when under bare fallow, nocturnal radiation in the same manner green crop, and grass. as other bodies. They do not acquire Examining a Known Farm .-- When their maximum temperature till after a farm is well known, the best season to sunset.

This occurs in summer at 9 inspect it is just before harvest, when the

P.M., while in the air the maximum crop is in the fullest luxuriance and indi temperature occurs between 2 and 3 cating its true condition. P.M. Hence trees may be conceived as reservoirs in which the heat of the day is stored up against the cold of the night.

Examining an Unknown Farm.

When a farm is unknown, the best sea son to look at it for the first time is in

Changes of temperature take place very spring — March — in dry weather, after slowly in the tree, but in the air they are very rapid. Hence the effect of forests on the daily temperature is to make the nights and the days cooler. It follows

the largest proportion of the soil has been exposed by the plough, and when its actual state, in regard to dryness and wetness and condition, cannot be con

that forests diminish the summer tem- cealed.

This is the season when the

perature and maintain the winter tem- farm most fully exposes its varieties of perature higher than it would be. This soil — whether or not it requires drain enables us to understand how forests in- age, whether any draining which has crease the rainfall. "

been done is still in good condition, “ The temperature is found to be and whether it is in a fair or poor con warmer at the base of a mountain and dition as to fertility. up its sides when the slopes above are Local Knowledge necessary.- In

Thebeneficial influ- judging a farm , the safest course for an ence of forests is exerted in two ways, intending offerer is to obtain the assist

covered with trees.

viz., in the diminished radiation from the ance of a friend experienced in farming, surface protected by the trees, and in the who is well acquainted with the part of

obstacle they oppose to the descending the country in which it is situate, if such On the contrary, a one can be had . Indeed we regard local the cold of winter is more severely felt knowledge as in all cases most essential.

currents of cold air.

in those localities where the slopes above

are destitute of vegetation , and consist

1 Buchan's Handy Meteoro., 2d ed. , 103.

REALISATION .

186

Tojudge strange land in a strange locality remark applies to magnesia. No doubt, is most unsafe . There is much truth in also, cultivation would decompose a part

the old saying that no man can judge of the peroxide of iron. Silica would be land a hundred miles from home. increased by cultivation, and so would Etiquette

of Farm - seeking. - It organic matter, even in greater propor

is considered amongst farmers a dishon- tion ; and the subsoil may be supposed ourable act to look at a farm until it is to have had more water than the soil, in the market — that is, until it is known but draining has reduced it. that the tenant is leaving it. It is bad Variety of Soils on a Farm . - A

behaviour to go over a tenant's farm , considerable variety of soil is to be if he wants to keep it, even although it looked for on every farm . The most may be advertised .

uniform soils are diluvial deposits and

Examining Soil and Subsoil.—On peaty soils, the greatest diversity being judging soil, the subsoil requires as much

presented between sandy and clay soils.

attention as the upper soil. Pits are dug Variety of soils is no objection to a farm, through soil and subsoil in every field to as it admits of differences in the rota

ascertain their nature and texture, and tions of cropping, and in conforming to whether they are similar or dissimilar in the exigencies of particular seasons. A character. Most commonly they are dis- variety of soils, to be most convenient similar ; because cultivation by the effects for a farm , should occupy separate fields of manures, and the roots of growing apart from each other. plants, will have so changed the upper Characteristics of Soils. soil as to render it distinct from the The characteristics and comparative subsoil, however similar they may have fertility and agricultural value of the been originally From the uniform nature of the de- various soils have been so fully discussed

posit in the Carse of Gowrie, it is evident in Divisional vol. i. pp . 40 to 68, that that the agricultural soil and subsoil must have at one time been the same, and any difference remarked now is the effect of cultivation. The following analysis of the soil and subsoil by Anderson of Inchyra, Carse of Gowrie, shows what has been stated : Soil . 2.8001

Subsoil.

1.4392

1.0450 1.2756

Potash Soda Lime

0.8300

Magnesia

1.0200

Peroxide of iron

4.8700

Sulphuric acid Phosphoric acid

0.0911 0.2400 0.0500

Carbonic acid Chlorine .

little further need be said here. The pupil - farmer should go back to that chapter, and study it carefully when selecting a farm . Clay Soils.—A variety of soil often

encountered in looking for a farm is a clay loam resting upon a porous or a retentive subsoil. A naturally porous subsoil makes the upper soil good for

2.1761

1.3938 6.2 303 0.0396

every kind of crop, and easily rendered fertile.

A retentive subsoil requires

drainingbefore it can render the upper soil fertile.

0.2680

Thin hard clay is often met with , and always on a retentive subsoil, which re

quires deep draining to dry it, and deep ploughing to make it thicker, loose, and friable. Ultimately it becomes a toler ably good soil, and will bear fair crops, provided it is liberally manured and

0.0098

0.0200

Alumina .

14.0400

14.2470

Silica

63.1954

61.6358

Organic matter

8.5508

6.8270

Water

2.7000

4.5750

worked in a judicious rotation. Light Soil.—Thin light soil resting The soil contains more potash and soda on retentive subsoil, is often met with . 99.8364

99.73321

than the subsoil, no doubt added to it by The subsoil requires draining. The soil the ingredients of the manure.

This

is weak in

constitution, hungry for

soil has never been known to have been manure, never easily satisfied, whilst its limed , and hence cultivation has taken

capacity is small at a time, requiring fre

away a portion of that ; and the same quent feeding. A mixture of the sub soil by trench -ploughing does much good, 1 Trans. High. Agric. Soc., July 1850, 296 . especially if followed by liberalmanuring.

187

JUDGING LAND.

Without liberal manuring; trench -plough- found in large extent upon many of our ing sometimes does harm on thin soils. pastoral farms, and is much improved in

Deep cultivation, with a grubber or culti- its capability to grow natural grasses by vator, is often preferable to deep plough- sheep -drains upon and under the surface, ing. Kind treatment, in eating off tur- which also render it sounder land for the nips with sheep, will make it carry fair sheep. Boggy Soils . — Boggy soils are met

crops.

Black Soil.-A soil of a black colour with to large extent inhollows, in a low , is not unfrequently met with , deep level, or an elevated plain. They must enough in as far as the plough is con- be drained ere they can be ploughed ; cerned. It is deaf, soft, and apt to be but with draining and liming, they yield

carried forward on the breast of the large returns in corn , green crops, hay, plough.

The straw it

grows is thick

or pasture.

enough, but soft and weak, and apt to Sandy Soil. - Soils which seem to lodge in wet weather ; and the corn, consist of almost pure sand are met with though bulky, is thick-skinned and light. adjoining the margin of the sea or estu Such a soil, resting upon retentive clay,

aries.

When drained — for they are wet

is easily affected by wet, and will with- below — and cultivated with the plough—, stand drought for a long time. This soil they yield good crops with a constant has at one time been a moor, and yields supply of manure, and in pasture afford crops readily at first, but does not con- short sweet herbage for sheep. tinue to improve. Method of Soil Inspection . - All

The subsoil must be thorough-drained, these varieties of soil are judged of in the and mixed with the soil by trench -plough-

same manner.

Every field must be

ing, which would much improve its tex- walked over ; and where a variety of

ture; and lime operates as a charm upon surface exists, the knolls and hollows it when given in large doses.

must be traversed.

On the knolls will

Gravel Soil.— A soil of quite an op- be found the thinnest, and in the hollows posite character may be found—a sharp the thickest, part of the soil.

The spade

gravel upon a gravelly porous subsoil, thrust into the bottom of an open which is admirably adapted to raise turnips, makes the best lair for sheep on

furrow will show at once whether the soil is thick or thin ; and if thick in the

turnips in winter, and never fails to furrow , it cannot fail to be so on the fatten the animals well, both internally crown. Character of Good and Bad Soils. and externally, Both straw and corn from this soil, though scanty, are of fine – It is not easy to describe in words the quality.

characters of a good or bad soil, or their

Tenacious Clay. - A variety of soil, state of fertility. It is only their physi not so common, is a deep unctuous clay cal characters that we can ascertain . of uniform texture, from the surface to Land to be judged requires to be in its under the reach of the plough. It is ordinary workable state — not saturated capable of growing large crops of corn with rain, not frozen, not burnt up with

and straw , and difficult to work, requiring drought. As a rule, clay soils feel hard under Draining the subsoil renders it capable the foot; loams are softer ; smooth deep of growing splendid green crops and soils feel as a thick carpet ; thin soils as

watching to catch the favourable weather. clover.

a thin carpet on a deal floor.

Soils in

Alluvial Soils. — Deep, dry, rich al- high condition are friable ; in poor con luvial deposits, along the banks of rivers dition are hard or too loose. The mark or in the bottom of valleys, form a good of the foot in soil in good condition is soil. It is fit to grow corn and green soon obliterated , by the elasticity of its

crops, is easily maintained in a high state of fertility, and is easily wrought. The subsoil requires little or no draining, being usually porous rather than other-

particles; but in poor condition or ten acious clay, the footmark remains for a time impressed. In low condition, soils seem bleached by the weather, are much wise. diversified in colour, appear to be in Peaty Soils.-A thin peaty soil is want of something, and are apt to be

REALISATION .

188

foul with weeds. Thin clays, hungry incumbent on a naturally porous subsoil. and deaf soils, are uncertain in character A turnpike and a parish road crossing at Fields rectangular, and com

and yield .

its centre.

Soils that have been drained , wrought, limed, and well farmed, and still indicate weakness, want of stamina, exhaustion, or a bleached appearance, may be con-

prehending from 20 to 30 acres each. Fences of thorn-hedges. Surface gently sloping or undulating to the S. Eleva tion not exceeding 200 feet above the

cluded to be incapable of further improve- sea . Water from springs or rivulets ment; but should farmed, and yet strength, by good yield fair crops in

they have been ill indicate a natural treatment they may a few years.

Proportion of Good and Bad Soil.-

When a variety of soil is found on a farm ,

accessible to every field. Steading situate

near the crossing of the roads, capacious enough to contain all the cattle in winter, and convenient for every barn -work. Two

or three paddocks of old grass near the steading for calves and other stock ; and

it should be observed whether they occupy some good old grass for grazing cattle. different fields, which is a favourable al Comfortable farmhouse and neat garden lotment; for much variety in the same not far from the steading. Shelter by field is troublesome. The amount of the higher land or woods from the N., whence good and bad soils should be summed up come cold winds and frost, and from the

separately, and seen which prevail. If the bad occupy only from one-fourth to one-third of the whole, the farm may be regarded a good one, and its character for excellence will depend on the quality of

S.W., whence blow the strongest and most shaking winds. Market town of moderate size and near at hand. A railway station on the farm or within easy distance, where coal and lime and extraneous manures

its good soil ; but should one-half of it

may be had . Grinding-mill of wheat and

be bad, the proportion is too great for oats in the vicinity. Distant from broad the good soil to do justice to itself, and shallow lakes. Not among coal- fields, or assist the bad ; and where the proportion near iron and chemical works. of bad increases beyond the one-half, the It is barely possible for one farm to value of the good is reduced very rapidly. possess all these advantages, and it is not

Succeeding Good and Bad Farmers. possible for every farm of a country to - Whether on good soil or bad, it is better possess them all ; but the more of these to succeed an easy -going farmer than one conditions that are conjoined, the better who has pushed the land to the utmost.

for the farm. It is not easy to determine

The former may have neglected and left the difference in the money value arising the land foul, yet it may be improved ; from the presence or absence of all these while the worst farmer to succeed is one conveniences, but it cannot fail to be con who wears out his land, for no land is so siderable. difficult to restore as that which has been worn out.

The fortunate chance is to

succeed a farmer who has brought his farm into, and has kept it, and leaves it, in high condition. Uncultivated Soil.- Part of the farm

ESTIMATING RENT. All the varieties of soil described above are to be found on the farms of this

may be in an uncultivated state, which is country. The value of these soils is not

not so objectionable as a worn -out farm. estimated on the same principle, since Its uncultivated soil will be fresh , and

some produce chiefly grain, and others

can be brought to bear sooner than wornout land. The fresh portion, when brought in, would permit the older land to lie in grass to recruit and recover its

are devoted mainly to the support of live

tone.

stock ; but whatever be the products, the money value of every soil must depend

upon its own capability. Methods of Estimating Rent.—The

Desirable Farms. — Desirable pro- fixed money-rent of arable land is esti perties for a farm of mixed husbandry to mated by taking the gross amount of corn

are these : Extent from 300 to the farmi is capable of yielding, and the possess 1000 acres ,

Soil deep light clay -loam , number of live stock it can dispose of capable of bearing turnips and wheat, in the course of a year ; and deducting

ESTIMATING RENT.

189

from the value of these at present market prices the expenses incidental to cultivation and the care and cost of stock, reasonable percentage

long as prices of farm produce continued to rise or maintain a high and steady level, the nineteen years' lease was in much repute.

and rent to the landlord .

questionably it served well its day and

and a on the capiIt has been said with tal to be invested, the remainder is the some degree of truth that it was the sum available for profit to the tenant " making of Scotch farming.” Un

The product is usually estimated ac- generation . A change was at hand, how cording to the condition of the land at

ever .

The tide of prices turned , and the

the time, and not what it may produce, depression which set in in 1879 deprived or might have produced , by superior or the nineteen years' lease of the place If the farm is very which it held in the affection of Scotch

inferior cultivation .

dirty or reduced in condition, the rent farmers. Obviously with falling prices may be fixed in accordance with what it a long lease is a disadvantage to the may be estimated to produce in fair con- tenant. dition, and an allowance made for two Occasionally a Scotch farm is still let

or three years for putting into a proper upon a nineteen years' lease, but shorter state of fertility. This mode of estimat- terms are now the rule. Leases of ing rent is applicable to carse farming, fifteen or nineteen years, with mutual to town farms, to common farming, and to mixed husbandry.

breaks at intervals of three or five years

-- by a year's previous notice in writing The fixed money -rent of a pastoral by either landowner or tenant - have be

farm is also estimated by the gross num- come common in Scotland. In some ber of stock , whether of sheep or cattle, cases the right to break at intervals is

or of both, the farm can support in the secured to the tenant only. course of a year, deducting the expenses The prevailing custom in the midland attending the rearing of the stock , and and southern counties of England is still a percentage on the capital invested in

a yearly tenancy , with twelve months' notice to quit from either party. This Another mode of estimating rent is custom has also taken root in Scotland,

them.

to pay so much money per head of the and with reasonable provision of com stock the farm will maintain.

The fixed money -rent of a dairy farm

pensation to the outgoing tenant for unexhausted manures and improvements,

is alsoestimated by the gross amount of the yearly tenancies would grow in milk, butter, and cheese it will yield, favour. and the live stock it will dispose of in

In Ireland the old - established customs

the course of a year, deducting the ex- have been upset by legislation which penses attending its management, and a places the Irish tenant in an exception percentage on the capital invested . Another estimate of rent is to pay a

ally advantageous position. Produce - rent.

Were the value of

sum for every cow the farm will support farm -produce a fixed quantity, a fixed during the year—in which case the land- money-rent would undisputably be best lord has the farm in his own hands, and for tenant and landlord. Prices, however, supplies the cows with food . are liable to great fluctuation, and there

Term of Tenancy . — These estimates has from timeto time, especially in peri of fixed rent may be for a term of years ods of depression, been much discussion or for a tenancy from year to year. For- as to the propriety of introducing some merly the almost universal practice in sort of " produce-rent,” - a rent equiva Scotland as well as in the north of Eng-

lent to the current market value of so

land, was to let farms upon leases of nine- much of the produce of the farm — a rent teen years' duration. This long term regulated by a scale which would slide gave the tenant a feeling of security up and down with the fluctuations of which he much appreciated. It enabled prices. him to effect improvements upon his

In theory this system has much to

holding and recoup himself, or at least commend it, but it is difficult to carry derive some benefit from them , before he into practice. Indeed a thoroughly could be disturbed in his tenancy. So workable plan of determining produce

REALISATION.

190

rents has never yet been elaborated.

ters of each sort of grain made up half The prices of grain have long been ac- the rent, the state of the rent would curately ascertained and recorded, but it stand thus : is not so with the prices of live stock and dead meat. And it is necessary for the perfect working of the system that the prices of the entire produce of each farm

should be taken into account. Moreover,

The rent

In grain Wheat , 128 qrs. at 40s . £256 0 1 229 . 140 16 Barley, 128 Oats,

128

the fluctuations in the cost of manures,

feeding stuffs, and labour, as well as the

50000

:

In cash

11

16s.

£ 1000 0 0

O O

102

8

499

4 o 500 0 0

0

3)788. !!

384

prices of produce, must be regarded ; and

268.

999 4 0

with all these difficulties in the way, it is In future no change would take place in not surprising that in practice the system the £ 500 paid in cash ; but the £ 499, of produce -rents hasmade little headway. 48. obtained from the prices of the year, Sliding Scale. - By the “ sliding scale ”

fixed the quantity of grain for that year

system the plan adopted is to take the at 128 quarters of each sort of grain ,but average price of produce at entry and which quantity would vary every year

the price current when a change in with the average prices. Or the conver rental is desired , and upon the basis sion of the £500, half of £ 1000, into a thus obtained calculate the fair rent. grain equivalent may be done in this The following is an example for a farm

way : Suppose the £ 1000 a -year is 258 .

of £500 rent at entry, worked in the for one acre, then 78s. , the cumulative fifth shift, the rent being allocated as price of wheat, barley, and oats, : 8, the under : bushels in one quarter , : : 258. : 2.564 Price at Price at bushels of each kind of grain, which, at time of time of entry . their respective prices, give 24s. 1134d. re -valuation. d. u. 8.

for one acre .

S.

4,200 on oats and barley 29 6 per qr.

20

O

K100 on hay

o

o

бо 40

O

o per cwt .

60

O

105

roo on potatoes

2100 sheep and cattle

95 77

o per ton ,

The new rent is worked out by simple

Interest, Profit, and Rent. The rate of interest on money should enter as an element in the calculation of rent ; and the rate of profit derivable from capitalinvested

in a farm should be

proportion, as under : Oats and barley 29 /á : 20 : : 200 £ 135 11 10 Hay .

.

Potatoes Sheep, & c.

.

105 95 77

: 60 :: 100 =

57

2

10

: 40 :: 100 = : 60 :: 100 =

42 2 77 18

5

6312 15

2

O

o

I

equal to that derivable from trade. A general rule is to reckon interest at 5 per

cent, and the profit upon capital em ployed in farming should be at least 10 per cent.

Rent in 1890

Do. in 1875

500

Fixed Money - Rents.

The

fixed

money - rent is much more simple and Reduction necessary .

£ 187 4 10

workable than any sort of produce-rent, and practical men of mature experience

The once common custom of grain- rarely go far wrong in estimating what rent — the value of a certain quantity of should be the rent of a farm well known grain - was long ago proved unsound in to them . They estimate the amount of principle, and has been abandoned. grain which the land will produce, and Mixed Rents. -- As a compromise the quantity of stock it will support, in between the fixed money and fluctuating

the condition they see it ; and, calculat

grain rents, the plan of paying one half ing these at current prices, and having in in a fixed money -rent and the other in view the cost of manures, feeding stuffs, the current market value of so much and labour, they determine the rent grain was at one time largely resorted to. which the farm can pay. While they

The following is an example of the work- estimate the rent in the existing condi ing of this system : A rent estimated at tion of the farm , they judge whether it £ 1000 a-year. The average price of is capable of producing more by better wheat 4os. , barley 228., and oats 16s. per farming, and this affords a latitude in quarter, their cumulative values would be the offer of rent to be made. Upon 78s. and average 26s. ; and if 128 quar- this uncertain element of their opinion,

OFFERING FOR A FARM.

191

rents are too often offered beyond the remedied ; but whenever the deficiencies value of the land ; and when bad seasons are supplied either by landlord or tenant,

occur, orprices fall, or the tenant proves the rent, including the percentage, be an indifferent farmer, the rent is soon

comes the natural rent — that is, the true

found to be too high. Advantages of a Fixed Money

value of the farm .

rent.

Besides greater simplicity the

fixed money -rent has, in the opinion of

OFFERING FOR A FARM.

many farmers, several other points in its favour. A fixed rent gives the tenant a A common practice with candidates for setled conviction in his mind what he a farm is to present to the landlord or his

has to pay and the landlord what he has agent a written offer of the rent willing to receive.

To a tenant certainty is a

to be paid by them. Conditions accom

stimulus to exertion ; uncertainty sets pany the offer when the buildings, land,

his mind a -wandering after what may be unattainable, or at least prove speculative

or fences are out of order.

Ill-appointed Farms.

Farms

are

often presented in the market with the Rent and Land Value. - When cal- house in disrepair, the steading inade

and unprofitable.

culated in the manner described, rent quate or incommodious, fences incomplete may be regarded as the natural value of or neglected, and the roads in a bad state.

the land. It is based on the supposition No reasonable proprietor should expect that the land is worth the sum at the a full rent for a farm in an incomplete It also takes for state. If the buildings and fences are granted that the farm is complete in all incomplete, it is butright either that the its appointments—the house, the stead- deficiencies should be provided or that time of the estimate.

ing, the fences—and also that the land is the rent should be diminished as ich in fair condition. It may also be re- as the interest of the money to be ex

garded as a rack -rent— that is, the high- pended by the farmer to put the farm in est value the land can bear at the time.

order.

But when these appointments are incom-

It is true, the landlord has a right to

plete — the house bad or awanting — the steading incommodious — the fences dilap idated, or the land in wretched condition ,—the rent must be modified to suit the particular state of the farm . Deductions for Deficient Appointments andBad Condition. — What pro-

present farms to the market in any state he pleases ; and it is also true, tenants take farms in any state of deterioration ; but no conditions of a lease can guaran tee the rent, or the respectability of the tenant. It is the true interest of every proprietor himself to put the farm -house,

portion of the rent ought to be deducted the buildings, fences, and roads in a for a bad farm-house, a bad steading, bad habitable state before exposing farms to fences, it is not easy to decide ; but from be let, and not to trust to tenants doing 28. 6d. to 5s. an acre may not be un- such works in a substantial manner. An reasonable.

And for bad condition of incoming tenant may expect to find the

land out of condition, and it is his duty great a deduction, since it may require to put that right ; but the farm should the soil, from 5s. to ios. an acre is not too

from £ 5 to £10 an acre to put it into be complete from the hands of the land good condition . “ Covenanted ” Rent.

The estimate

of the deterioration by these exigencies,

lord, who will receive a rent in proportion to its state of completeness. Essential Repairs. — The conditions

in the shape of pecuniary deductions, in a lease may affect many subjects, but converts the rent into a covenanted one, those which are indispensable are—the and it assumes that same character when farm -house, which may require extensive

the tenant undertakes to build, or fence, repairs or additions to render it suitable or drain ; but even when the landlord tothe nature of the farm — the steading undertakes to supply these deficiencies, may require additional accommodation the rent is still a covenanted one, because for stock, which constitutes an import of the percentage paid over and above ant particular on most farms — the fences by the tenant, as the deficiencies are may require completing, partial renew

192

REALISATION .

ing, or extensive repairs — and the farm- tal, skill, and respectability, the one who roads may require to be put into a state expresses the fewest wants and offers the highest rent is accepted as tenant. It is

serviceable for the farm .

These subjects demand careful atten- not probable that all the candidates, or tion at the commencement of a lease.

any two of them, are equal in capital,

If the offer has been estimated irre- skill, and respectability ; but the rule spective of these particulars, it is but seems to be, cæteris paribus, the candi right that the tenant pay the interest on date who is willing to take the farm as the sum expended by the landlord to put it stands, and offers the highest rent, is

them right ; but when the rent is esti- sure of being accepted. The accepted mated on the understanding that the offer is intimated to the successful can farm was in a complete state, the land- didate by letter from the proprietor or his agent. lord must put it into that condition. This is the ordinary state of a complete Objections to “ Offering ” for Farms. farm , but other conditions may be requis-We have always been of opinion that

ite — such as the thorough drainage of the the mode usually chosen by proprietors land ; the formation of a large drain or to present their farms to market is objec

outlet for the drainage, where such is tionable. The mode is this : When a farm necessary ; the improvement of waste is free for a new tenant, the circumstance land ; the substitution of one power to

is advertised in the newspapers. To this

the threshing -machine for another -- as steam or water for horse -power, when buildings have to be suitably changed . Executing Permanent Improvements. These constitute permanent improvements, and belong to the land-

proceeding there can be no objection, since no better mode exists of giving publicity to the fact. In the advertise ment is announced that offers of rent for the farm will be received until a certain day. lord to execute ; but the tenant may be This is objectionable, inasmuch as it

willing to undertake a share in them, puts the farm up to private auction one candidate being pitted against and satisfactorily executed. In every case the bidding over others in the dark. In a

and along with the landlord have them

tenant executes the carriage of materials. public auction, competitors hear the bid

When the tenant has capital to pay for dings announced as they are made, and such improvements himself, there is no the successful competitor bids the highest

reason why he should not arrange with price and gets the article. This is fair the landowner to do so ; but to ensure

and above-board . In a private auction, no candidate holding, the tenant should be careful to knows the offers made by others, nor have the written consent of the landlord whether any or what conditions are an to execute these improvements. nexed to them , nor how much the accept It is a bad plan, however, for a tenant ed offer is above the next highest. Every

his right to compensation on leaving the

to cripple himself by expending on per- candidate is purposely kept in the dark manent improvements the capital which and in suspense, and the unsuccessful

he would require for the proper working ones learn by public report the issue of of the farm . These improvements should the concealed contest. be executed by the landowner, leaving the tenant's capital free for his proper

During the period of concealment, undue influences may be exercised in

work of farming the land. Draining and improvement of waste land under a long lease often repay the tenant, just as he is repaid for the cost of mechanical power,

favour of one or more of the candidates, one of whom may possess capital and skill, another may be an adventurer who

wishes to have possession of the farm . which saves the wear and tear of horses In thus accepting valuations of rent, and harness. proprietors virtually yield the power of

Considering Offers. - Offers are often valuing their own properties to other received by the proprietor from any num- parties-implying that they are them

ber of candidates that may choose to offer selves incompetent to value their own for the farm . When all the candidates land : implying that a stranger from a are on an equal footing, as regards capi- distance, who knows little or nothing of

CONDITIONS OF LEASE .

193

the soil of the district, of its farming, its fications as a tenant, and accepting or climate, is more competent to value his declining his application before another land than himself or the tenant who has candidate is admitted for actual negotia tion. If the rent asked cannot be obtained lived upon it for years.

It is grievous to see proprietors acting in this way an " offer " may be received,

as if they did not know the value of their and the rule on the best-managed estates properties.

is to accept or reject one offer before re

In every other business—and proprie- ceiving another. torship of land is a business — the disposer of goods puts a value upon them, and when he finds he cannot procure a pur

CONDITIONS OF LEASE.

chaser at the price he has fixed, he lowers it to suit the public demand ; but he

Most farms, when entered into, are in

rarely asks his customers what price they will give for his goods. That something is consciously wrong in the system is evinced by the notice appended to the advertisement that the highest offer may not be accepted. If

an incomplete state . Farms get out of repair by long use. There is no time for making repairs between the new tenancy and the old, and there is no use of requir ing the outgoing tenant to make repairs, as the incoming tenant may require both

the system is really good, the highest repairs and additions different from the offer ought, in justice to the offerers, to actual state of the farm . be accepted. Landowners “ asking ” Rent.

Covenants or conditions are required -A

in leases to determine whether the land

far more dignified and better course for a

lord or tenant is to put the farm into a

landed proprietor to pursue is to puta rent complete state. sure any on the farm which

, he is indusOn large properties the terms of lease trious and skilful tenant could fairly pay, are printed,and a copy given to those in

and add such conditions of lease as will quiring for the farm. Should any of the protect the farm from a greedy tenant, terms be deemed objectionable, they are while affording ample liberty to the skill commented on when the offer is given in, and judgment of a liberal tenant, and and the desired alterations indicated. then invite farmers to become candidates,

On small properties, the conditions are

not as valuers of land, but as capitalists obtained verbally or in writing from the who can stock the farm , as farmers who proprietor or his agent. can manage land skilfully, and as men

Adventurous Offerers. — Precautions

who have respectable characters, — and are required between strangers — for there from them select the one who has the

are candidates for farms who are as un

most capital, the best skill, and the principled as to offer any amount of rent, greatest respectability. and accept any conditions of lease, to get

With the land valued in this way, in- possession of a farm in good order ; and stead of the prevailing auctioneering sys- on having reaped the first crop, and the tem, we are persuaded that better farm- rent-day arrives, give much trouble to

ingwould ensue, a more respectable class the landlord in demanding a reduction in of tenants be established, rents be more the rent, or extensive repairs, or additions easily and surely paid, and a greater cor- to buildings.

Hence the utility of pre

diality promoted between landlord and viously inquiring into the character of tenant.

candidates ,and selecting personsinstead

English Custom.—This system of the landowner or his agent deciding upon the rent to be accepted, and at once openly stating it to candidates for the farm, is

of accepting high offers of rent. When a landlord lays himself open to such annoy ance, he proves that he was more desirous of obtaining a high rent than a respectable

extensively pursued in England, but very tenant, and has himself or his agent to On many English blame.

rarely in Scotland.

estates it is the custom to treat with each

Care in Drafting Conditions.—Most

candidate as he makes application, inform- farm leases we have seen are far too ing him of the rent desired and the con- elaborate and too strict upon the tenants. ditions of tenancy, considering his quali- Respectable tenants, who know their VOL. III .

N

194

REALISATION .

business, and desire to pursue it in a a condition to last his lease. A farm proper manner, do not need to be hemmed road is required for access to certain in on all sides by legal provisions. Yet fields, which cannot be reached but by while human nature is as it is, certain trespassing through other fields. An conditions of tenancy will be necessary embankment is required along the side

in all bargains extending over a number of a rivulet which occasionally overflows of years. Conditions concocted by legal its banks and damages the crops of a advisers for a whole estate are unsatis-

haugh, or the lower parts of several

because they are inappli- fields. A watering - pool is required in factory, simply nature of every farm. Each

cable to the

farm should have conditions suited to it-

some of the fields.

All these changes, being of a permanent

self — to its soil, its situation , and state it character, ought to be undertaken by the is in ; and then, although the conditions landlord , and should be stipulated for in may be rather strict, a good farmer will the offer, and not afterwards.

When de

accept them , knowing that restrictive manded afterwards and acceded to, in conditions, like penal laws, are applicable justice is done to the other offerers. Had only to offenders. they, when they gave in their offer, under The conditions of a lease are soon ad- stood these would be conceded, they would justed if both parties are desirous of meet all have been placed on the same footing, ing on fair terms. But in many cases, and might have given a higher rent; but after the rent has been accepted, and the it is scarcely fair towards them to make

conditions unobjected to, the candidate

large concessions afterwards to one party.

afterwards proposes other conditions,

Owner's Rights reserved . — In leases

which he thinks may mitigate the con- the landlord reserves for himself the right

sciously high rent he has offered. In this of opening quarries or mines, of making maneuvre he often deceives himself.

new roads, of entering into woods through

Fair Conditions. – Fair conditions are fields, and of doing anything on the farm these : Allowances for draining are stip for the benefit of the estate, with the ulated for, and are a proper subject for proviso of giving compensation to the negotiation when the farm requires it. tenant where his crop or land is injured.

The steading requires more extensive re- Cutting down woods sometimes does pairs than the outgoing tenant was bound grievous harm to a farm by depriving some part of it of shelter, and in this tions are necessary, such as the removal case a reduction should be made in the of the horse -course, and the erection of rent. a boiler. house and chimney- stalk, of a Game Reservations. Reservation steam -engine for the threshing-mill, or may also be made for hunting and shoot

to make ; and even additions and altera-

the construction of a dam for a water- ing game for the landlord and his friends.

wheel. A new or an extended set of Thequestion of damage by game has feeding - boxes may be required. The courts should be roofed wholly or par.

often caused heart -burnings between landlord and tenant ; but most of this

tially, and fitted up with turnip-troughs has been obviated by the Ground Game around the walls for young cattle. Hay- Act, which gives the tenant an inalienable houses may have to be erected ; and rain right to destroy ground game upon his spouts put round the eaves of the houses.

land.

Although the outgoing tenant is bound Farmers are enabled to obtain compen to leave the fences in tenantable repair, sation from the landowners for damage a new fence may be wanted across a field done to their crops by game. to make it smaller, or along the side of a Rent-day . - The dates at which rent wood or public road — and it should be is paid are specifically mentioned in the kept in view that the “ tenantable condi-

lease. The most convenient times for the

tion ” in which the outgoing tenant has tenant are Candlemas and Lammas to leave fences, &c. , is merely tenantable February and August. By Candlemas condition, less ordinary tear and wear or the farmer has had time to dispose of a

natural decay, so that the incoming ten- great part of his corn ; and by Lammas ant may not be justified in accepting he has sold off his fat cattle, sheep , and from the landlord such fences, &c., as in wool. Both terms being intermediate

CONDITIONS OF LEASE .

between Whitsunday and Martinmas

195

Good Husbandry.- This is practical

May and November - when the half- ly freedom of cropping, subject to the year's wages of farm - servants,

‫ور‬

field- rules of good husbandry."

These

workers, and labourers become due, the rules, which are of course unwritten, farmer escapes large demands at one time. may be somewhat variously construed ; Still, in Scotland farm rents are generally yet to experienced and intelligent far paid in May and November. InEngland mers they are well enough understood. rents are usually paid at Lady-day and Sometimes they are read as meaning Michaelmas — April and October. good husbandry ” in accordance with

Stamping the Lease.— “ A minute of the prevailing customs of the particular lease, like missive letters, must be stamped district. This, however, is a narrow and before action will lie ; and it is recom- improper view to adopt.

« Good hus

mended that, before possession, a formal bandry,” in so far as concerns the interests lease shall be executed .”

Conditions of Cropping.

of the landowner, embraces every kind

of husbandry, be it common or uncom mon, which can be, or is, pursued without

Injurious Restrictions. It was at in any way, or to any extent, impairing one time almost the invariable practice, the fertility or deteriorating the value

and it is still the general rule, to tie of the land. It is thus easy enough for down the tenant to certain courses of practical men to determine when a ten cropping by conditions in the lease or ant has overstepped the boundary-line

agreement of tenancy. Stringent condi- of “ good husbandry ,” within which the tions upon this point may be detrimental most enterprising tenant will have all the not only to the interests of the tenant scope and freedom he can reasonably, or advantageously for himself or others, but also of the landowner himself. Restrictions may have been necessary desire to have. when miscropping was the order of the The practice of letting farms " with

day, and when neither rotation of crops freedom of cropping, subject to the rules nor manuring were properly understood of good husbandry ," is growing in favour, and has certainly much to commend it. or practised. Reasonable Restrictions.-But, with Now, however, with the great progress in the science and practice of manuring, every desire to allow reasonable freedom

the old -fashioned restrictions on cropping are entirely out of place. Freedom of Cropping.-It has been pointed out in the chapter on “ Manures

to the tenants, many landowners think it advantageous, in order to avoid differ ences, to lay down in plain words certain

restrictionsupon the system of cropping to be pursued. When the sole object of that in so farasconcerns the mereques- the landowner is to prevent the deteriora

and Manuring,” Divisional vol. iii. p. 88,

tion of the fertility of the soil, the ten- tion of his property, and not in any way ant, by making use of the facilities at his to unduly limit the freedom of the ten hand for manuring the soil, may now ant, it is easy to frame such conditions as with impunity grow what he pleases, and will be satisfactory to all parties. sell what he pleases. Thus the landAdapting Conditions to Different

owner may now with safety give his ten- Farms. It is unquestionably desirable ant absolute freedom of cropping, quali- that such conditions of tenancy as are fied by the two conditions of keeping the

enforced should not be applied indis

land free from weeds and applying proper as criminately, but should be drawn up so to suit each individual farm . Inat

and adequate manure.

It is known with sufficient precision tention to this principle, and adherence

the quantities of the various elements of tostereotypedconditions, result in many plant-food removed from the soil by the a farm being ill farmed, as well as in dis different crops. The fertility of the soil appointment and loss of capital to many will therefore be guarded by conditions a good farmer. Such conditions are requiring the tenant to apply such man- usually found on estates where the ures at such times as will adequately and

factor is a lawyer or has little or no

timely recoup the land for what he has practical knowledge of farming, for an taken from it. agent who has extensive practical know

REALISATION .

196

ledge of farming is well aware of the

absurdity of such a system . A weak soil cannot endure the cropping of a strong soil, nor a deaf soil support stock like a sharp soil ; each requires dif-

corn crop withdraws, there is no good reason why he should be prevented from

growing a second com crop. Indeed, if he is sufficiently liberal and judicious with manure and careful as to tillage, he

ferent treatment. Why, then, should should not be restricted as to the num they be placed under the same condi- ber of corn crops taken in succession, for, tions? Similarity of conditions is a as has been well shown in the chapter on

simple-looking mode of placing all the “ Manures and Manuring ” ( Divisional farms alike on an estate ; but in the vol. iii.), and elsewhere in this work ,it is variety of farms, the similarity in condi- entirely a question of manuring, backed up by skilful and careful tillage. of judgment and discrimination on the The growing of two grain crops in part of the author of the conditions. succession has been encouraged by the tions of lease or agreement evinces a want

Let a good farmer exercise his skill larger area laid down to grass, and by according to the nature of the soil ; and the use of artificial foods.

The decrease

the improvement of the farm is the best of arable land tends to curtail the supply proof that the rotation followed is the of straw , and to make up for this some best for the farm .

But, says an owner

who takes a narrow view of the subject,

farmers grow two grain crops in suc cession.

In many liberty cannot be granted to one tenant Disposal of Produce . without extending it to all ; and in that cases, tenants are prohibited from selling view the skill of a superior tenant is hay or straw to be removed from the cramped for the sake of maintaining a farm . This is a remnant of an age

and of a condition of matters that long check upon an unskilful one. Far better let the skilful tenant be ago ceased to exist. When the farm

encouraged, and the slovenly one kept was entirely or mainly dependent upon under restrictions, by a thoroughly prac- the manure made from the consumption tical agent, than follow a generally de- of its own produce, it was assuredly prudent to protect it from undue ex

pressing system .

The desirability of discriminating the haustion by the removal of such raw capabilities of farms, and selecting the material as hay and straw . tenant for his skill and not for high

Now , however, that the supply of ex

rent, is surely apparent.

traneous manure is both abundant and

Successive Corn Crops. — It is a common practice to introduce into leases or farm agreements a clause prohibiting the tenant from taking two corn crops in succession on the same land.

cheap, there is no longer any reason why a tenant should beprevented from selling any portion of the raw produce

If this condition be observed, land under tillage will not be very readily exhausted.

on the farm .

of his farm , if he should find it more

profitable to do that than to consume it If any condition whatever is to be en

forced as to the disposal of hay or straw , it should be qualified by a clause em powering the tenant to sell and cart away the produce, on the understanding of manure . that he brings on to the farm appro But while this is, as a rule,a safe meas- priate manure equivalent to the man ure, it may, if stringently enforced, oper- urial value of the hay or straw removed . Green crops or grasses and clovers would thus come between the corn crops ; and it is well known that root crops will not grow without the direct application

ate injuriously upon the tenant.

The

Indeed, with a stipulation to this effect

that is, that any consequent manurial clause should be amended to read that up in purchased loss shall be made should not be taken in manures “ two corn crops shallsame be allowed — the tenant land, unless

succession upon the

the land receives at the time an adequate supply of appropriate manure.” If the tenant apply to the land directly and immediately such a dressing of manure as will restore all the fertility the second

unfettered freedom as to the disposal of the produce of his farm. Manuring. — It is probably right that,

especially in the closing years of a ten ancy, the landowner should have some

CONDITIONS OF LEASE.

197

check upon the tenant both in the apply- that stipulated for in the conditions of ing and in the withholding ofmanure.

tenancy, a prudent estate manager will

It isof well applicabe sounreasonable as to grumble if tion an knownthat,bythe excessive quantity of such not the tenant should leave the farm in that manure as nitrate of soda, a tenant may

rotation — that is, if the peculiar rotation

seriously impair the natural fertility of is not of a kind that will injuriously a soil. Such treatment would certainly affect the letting of the farm . The object of the condition providing not be in accordance with the rules of “ good husbandry ,” and under that gen- for the leaving of the farm in a certain eral condition the landowner would be entitled to redress.

rotation is perfectly sound and reason able.

Unless the farm is left with a fair

Some think it better, however, to proportion of grass, root, and corn land, guard against the exhaustion of the soil the incoming tenant may be seriously by stimulating and one-sided manure, by handicappedand hampered in his initial providing in the conditions of tenancy efforts, while the letting value of the that during the last three, four, or more farm may be sensibly reduced. This is one of the many points con years of the tenancy the dressings of manure shall conform to a certain stand- nected with estate management which

ard, embracing in appropriate quantity demand the exercise of practical experi and due proportion all essential manurial ence, mature judgment, and sound com Each individual case should

elementsrequired to be applied to such

mon-sense.

soil.

be judged upon its merits.

The letter

With the right of compensation for of the law should be enforced only unexhausted manures now secured to when necessary to protect the legitimate

him , a condition to this effect, reasonably interests of the landowner.

The uni

framed, should not inflict any improper versal, indiscriminate application of cast

hardship upon the tenant, while it would iron, lawyer-made regulations to all sorts tend tomaintain the natural fertility of

and conditions of farms and farmers can

the land.

not fail to be often the cause of unnec

Leaving the Farm in Rotation.-

An important and knotty point in farm

essary hardship upon tenants who de serve better treatment.

and estate management is the question

Weed - cleaning. - On all well-man aged estates emphatic conditions are laid left by an outgoing tenant. Even where down as to the destruction of weeds. absolute freedom of cropping is given to Not a word can be said against the of the rotation in which the farm is to be

the tenant during his tenancy, it is cus- stringent enforcementof theseconditions, for the suppression of weeds is as desir his giving up the farm , to leave it in a able in the interests of the tenant as for certain definite rotation , with so much of the sake of the landowner. Not only the land in grass of certain ages, so much should the green crop break be thor set apart for green crop, and so much for oughly cleaned of weeds, but on the pas corn crops. ture - land, roadsides, and every odd What the particular rotation to be corner, rag - weed , thistles, and other tomary to require him , in the event of

stipulated for may be will depend mainly weeds should be timely cut down. By upon the custom of the district and the the accumulation of weeds many farms

kind of farming for which the farm and have been for years seriously reduced in locality are best adapted. It is prudent value. Landowners are assuredly well to be guided in this matter by local entitled to protect themselves from losses custom ,for, as a rule, it may be accepted arising in this way. as upon the whole the best. Yet upon Pastoral Farms.- There being no

estates under enlightened management, rotation of cropping on a pastoral farm , 1)

the rules as to “ retiring rotation are except on the small portion of ground neither hard nor fast. If a tenant has available for culture, the duration of the shown that a certain farm can be worked tenancy varies greater than with arable to good advantage upon a system of farms. As a rule, the leases on pastoral

cropping different from that prevailing farms have never been so long as for arable farms, there being a mutual desire

in the district, different perhaps from

REALISATION .

198

between landlords and tenants to adjust ing the rent, and so does a tenant when rents according to the prices of stock and wool every seven to fourteen years.

he offers for a farm . When burdens are paid by the tenant on stipulation, he

Penal Clauses. — Penal clauses are

does so for the convenience of the land

inserted into every lease and farm agree- lord, who deductsthe payments from the ment, and seem fair for the protection of rent. Some of the public burdens are

the landlord. In cases of miscropping- paid partly by the tenant and partly by taking two corn crops in succession with the landowner. out purchasing the manurial equivalent

-a penalty of £ 5 or £ :o for one acre,

over and above the rent, is provided -

COMPENSATION FOR IMPROVEMENTS.

a large fine being requisite in this case, otherwise the advantage gained by misFor many years an excited agitation cropping might be considerable. was maintained for legislative recogni Removal.

An obligation is made tion of the tenant's right to compensation

imperative upon the tenant to remove from his farm at the time specified in

for unexhausted improvements. The right claimed was, that when a tenant

the lease, without the exhibition of legal laid out money upon his landlord's land, instruments of dismissal; otherwise the which has obviously improved it, he shall ejectment of a tenant reluctant to leave have the power to make his landlord re his farm might be attended with much imburse him the amount when he leaves trouble and considerable expense. the farm. For example, if he laid out Subletting. — Subletting a lease to money in erecting buildings, forming

another party is usually prevented, as is fences, making farm -roads, draining, lim

also its assignation to trustees for behoof ing, manuring, and so forth, he shall be reimbursed for the une austed value of of creditors. Irish Customs. - In Ireland judicial one and all of these improvements at the rents and statutory termsof tenancy were end of the lease. introduced by the Land Act of 1881 . Feudal Customs.

In old leases still nominally , if not actually, in existence on some estates, there are found many trifling conditions indicative of the spirit of feudalism. One of these is the payment of kain or cane fowls, a custom long ago abolished

It was at last generally conceded that the claim was a reasonable one, and its justice was recognised by the Agricul.

tural Holdings (England ) Act, 1883,, which provided compensation to the tenant under certain restrictions. For “ permanent improvements," such as reclamation of waste land, buildings,

road -making, fencing, and draining, this

Personal services, as driving coals or cut- Act gives the outgoing tenant compensa

ting peats for the landlord's use, were also tion only when he had obtained the pre

provided for. Drawing coal was a convenience for a landlord who had no work-

vious written consent of the landowner to their execution. No such consent is

horses of his own, and was regarded as required to obtain compensation for lim .

trivial by the tenants if demanded at a ing, manuring, and the consumption of time when field -labour was not urgent. Land Burdens.

purchased foods on the holding ; and for the unexhausted value of these, the out going tenant, both in England and Scot

In Scotland the public burdens on land land, has now an inalienable right to are paid chiefly by the proprietor. In

compensation.

England the public burdens are paid by In Ireland, by the different Land the tenants. Of the two methods, the Acts, the tenant is placed in a still more Scottish is much the fairer for both par- advantageous position. ties, it being no more than reasonable that the proprietor should pay the bur dens of his own land.

ENTERING A FARM .

When the tenant is not annoyed by

the payment of public burdens, the land-

Scotch Custom . — The usual times of

lord takes that into account on determin-

entry to farms in Scotland are at Whit

ENTERING A FARM .

sunday and Martinmas, or at the separa-

199

Way - going Crops.—The way-going

tionof thecrop from the ground. These crop of grain (the property of the out the in terms of entry are not equally favour- going tenant) may be lefttowith take it at able for the tenant in every species of coming tenant, who has farming. mutual valuation (made by one valuator

Whitsunday Entry. — Entry to the mutually chosen, or by two valuators houses and grass at Whitsunday is con- and an oversman just before harvest

venient for å tenant practising mixed ing ), or it may be sold privately or by husbandry, as it enables him to sow auction to the highest bidder. turnips for his stock in winter. Were Steelbow . — Where the steelbow prin he to enter wholly at the separation of ciple is in operation, the outgoing tenant the crop from the ground, he would have must leave the straw on the farm . In no turnips for his stock but what he other words, the grain, but not the straw purchased, either from the way -going of the last crop, belongs to him. « By crop on the farm or elsewhere.Entire

a declaration that the straw and manure

entry cannot be given to any incoming are steelbow , it is assumed that they are tenant at Whitsunday, as he cannot given by the landlord, and are to be re

enter the ground on which the way-going turned to him ; or, what is equivalent, crop is growing.

delivered to the incoming tenant, to

Martinmas Entry. — The entry at whom the landlord has conveyed his Martinmas enables the incomer to plough right to them . A sufficiency of manure, the stubble- land in time for the ensuing and of the materials for its formation, green crops. Entire entry at the separa- are thus permanently retained on the

tion of the crop from the ground is convenient for the tenant who breeds no live

farm . "'

1

The steelbow is a great boon to the in

stock , as he can purchase them for winter, coming tenant, it being equivalent to his

according to theopportunity afforded him possessingas much more capital,at the to purchase straw for litter and turnips entry to his farm , as the straw and dung for food, either from the way -going crop he receives are worth in money --- for without it he would have to purchase The carse farmer, and he in the neigh- both somewhere. bourhood of towns, would find this a Selling Way - going Crop. — When convenient term of entry. the way - going crop is disposed of by A dairy farmer finds it most conveni- public sale as it grows, the sale takes

on the farm or elsewhere.

ent to enter at Whitsunday, having the place a few daysbefore the crop should

grass in summer and turnips for winter; be cut down. For the convenience of and so does the pastoral farmer, whether purchasers, the fields may be divided his stock be of cattle or sheep. into lots comprehending two or more Convenient times of entry for all ridges, according to their length, each sorts of farmers is to the houses and containing perhaps from 1 to 5 acres. grass at Whitsunday, and to the land

As oats and oat- straw are the most

at the separation of the crop from the useful sort of crop to purchase, the waygoing crop consists as much of that ground. English Custom . - In England the species of corn as practicable. times of entry vary much in the different Disadvantage of the Selling Sys counties. A common entry is at Old tem . — It is obvious that the incoming Lady-day to the houses and grass, and tenant has no more chance of securing a

to the rest of the land at Michaelmas ; part or whole of the crop than any other but entry is also given as soon as Candle- person ; and should it fetch higher prices mas in some districts. than he is disposed to give, he will have Candlemas Entry . - With entry at to purchase straw elsewhere. In any Candlemas the new tenant lays down case he is obliged to purchase corn , for the entire crop of that year, and as the the sake of securing the straw upon retiring tenant has already utilised the which it grows, and of which he is at crop of the previous year, there is in the time much in want.

this case no way -going crop to be dealt with.

1 Hunter's Law of Land and Ten. , 264.

REALISATION .

200

The practical effect of this system upon the incoming tenant is, that he must possess capital to purchase as much straw as his stock will require in winter,

and as much manure as will do justice to the land in summer .

4 qrs, wheat at 30s.

£6 0

Straw , 148. per qr .

2

18

8

S.

Deduct reaping per acre

IO

carrying

6

0

threshing, Is. per qr. 4

O

Its effect upon

the farm is, that should the incoming

0

o

ing of the farm , he cannot purchase a sufficient quantity of straw and manure ;

Value of the crop for I acre, £7 8

O

and both his stock and land must suffer

In like manner with other sorts of

I

tenant not have capital beyond the stock

privation to that extent. True, he can grain.

The value of oat-straw may be

bring his own way-going crop from the taken at 108., and of barley-straw at 8s. farm he is leaving to the new farm ; but per quarter. unless the two farms are very near, it

Overlapping of Outgoing and In

would be impracticable to carry a crop at a season when everybody is too busy to give him any assistance. Someleases provide that the outgoing

coming Tenant.— Whenever the way going crop is sold on its foot, and it has been cut down and removed by the pur

tenant is obliged to offer one-half the

departure, and the incoming tenant

chasers, the outgoing tenant takes his

crop on valuation to the incoming ten- enters and ploughs the stubble - land. ant, or the landlord - and should either But when the straw is held in steelbow

refuse the offer, he is at liberty to sell it. In other cases, a private agreement is made for the whole crop between the incoming and outgoing tenants, irrespective of the lease or a sale. The pur-

by the farm , the outgoing tenant has a right to be accommodated in the stack yard and the steading until the crop is threshed and delivered, for which pur pose he must have the control of the

chaser bears the expense of cutting down threshing -mill, as much of the work and carrying away the part of the crop horse stable as will house as many horses he has purchased.

as the threshing -mill requires - and if it In any case, the incoming tenant is be moved by power, as many as will take placed in a worse position by this than the grain to market; and as many cot by steelbow , which is a principle that tages as should be occupied by i man might with advantage be adopted as re- and at least 3 women , to take charge of

gards straw and dung on all arable farms the crop for threshing and sending it to except those near towns.

market.

Valuing Crops.-Between incoming It is provided in leases on many estates and outgoing tenants the value of the that the outgoing tenant must not thresh crop as it stands depends on the price his crop faster than the incoming one can likely to be obtained for the grain in the market in the ensuing winter. The incoming tenant who enters as a beginner, will consume much of the oat crop in

consume the straw with his stock, to save it from waste ; and that the in coming tenant must not use the straw more slowly than will allow the outgoing

supporting his men and horses, and in to clear the stackyard by the Whitsunday sowing the oatbreak of the succeeding following, when he leaves the farm en crop. tirely by giving up the keys of the The crops are estimated by the acre, corn - barn , and withdrawing his work

and after deducting the expense of reap- people and horses from the houses and ing, carrying, stacking, and threshing, stables, the value per acre of the corn becomes

Immediate Threshing.

- A much

known ; and that of the straw is so simpler method is for the outgoing ten much per quarter of corn.

ant to thresh out the entire crop as soon

For example, the crop of wheat is esti- as it is ready for stacking. If the straw mated at 4 quarters per acre, and is worth is carefully stacked, it will keep as well zos. per quarter ; and the straw 12s. per as in the unthreshed stacks, and the out quarter : the value of an acre will stand thus :

going tenant can store or sell the grain at once as he may think best.

ENTERING A FARM.

201

Not unfrequently the incoming tenant as the value of the way- going crop, may undertakes for the outgoing the thresh- be arbitrated by the same parties." ing and delivering of the crop to market Fences and Houses . — There are al-

Adjusting Farm Labour. The grentest difficulty which the young

ways questions of minor magnitude, though of importance, to be settled between the landlord or incoming tenant and the outgoing tenant. These include the state of the fences, of the gates, of

farmer experiences, on assuming the management of a farm , is in distribut ing and adjusting labour. To accom plish these correctly, both as regards the work and the labourer, a thorough know

on payment for the trouble.

the steading, and of the dwelling-houses, ledge is requisite of the quantity of work all of which the outgoing tenant may be that can be performed in a given time bound by his agreement to leave in by all the means of labour, animate and

tenantable repair - less ordinary tear and mechanical, which he possesses. wear, in most, but not in all, cases.

It is

the duty of the young farmer to acquire

The most pleasant way of ascertaining this knowledge with all correctness , for the facts connected with these subjects by a skilful distribution of the work is by arbitration, undertaken by com- ers, the work can be performed in the

petent and experienced men mutually chosen by the outgoing and incoming tenants, with power to the arbiters to appoint an oversman, in case of a difference of opinion arising between them .

When the fences and buildings are obviously in a tenantable state of repair, the business is soon settled ; but when otherwise, the arbiters may perhaps appoint tradesmen, acquainted with the respective sorts of works, to inspect the

most perfect manner in regard to time with the smallest exertion as regards physical force — and with the best con dition of the soil in regard to texture ; and a judicious adjustment of workers to each other places every one in the position

to perform his own share of the work, and no more, with ease and comfort. Good and Bad Management. There

are few things that strike a practical man more forcibly, in comparing the agricul

ture of England and Scotland , than the state of the particulars under arbitration, distribution of the work -people in the to calculate the costs of repair, and to report their opinions in writing, or give evidence before the arbiters.

fields. In England it is not uncommon to see them employed in several fields

The decree of the arbiters containing of a farm at the same time, and the their awards results in the outgoing ploughs working scattered here and tenant paying the expenses of repair there. Now the great principle kept

to the incoming, who has the repairs in view in Scotland, asregards the work. executed, and who in his turn becomes people, is to concentrate the energies of obligated to leave the same articles in

all on a particular piece of work. Many operations require the conjoint Repairs and Renewals . — On many labour of the teams and field -workers,

a tenantable state for his successor.

of the best - managed properties the tenants' obligation in regard to houses and fences require them merely to execute trifling repairs, such as renewing a

and when so employed they are confined within a given space of the same field, that the work may be performed in as

short a time as practicable ; and it is not broken pane of glass, putting on a hinge possible to accomplish this end unless

on a door or gate, tightening wire, or the labourers, of whatever kind, are so mending a gate or door. If a house or distributed and arranged that one party

a fence is so far decayed by tear and takes the lead and clears the way for

wear as to be untenantable, the duty of another to follow and finish, and that renewing it devolves upon the landowner.

not one individual shall flag in the work .

This is as it should be ; for, properly When labourers are scattered over dif speaking, it is no part of a tenant's duty ferent fields, doing different sorts of to renew what has been exhausted by work, no emulation exists, and no effec ordinary tear and wear. tual superintendence can be exercised ; These are the ordinary subjects of

arbitration ; but any other subject, such

1 Parker's Notes Law of Arbit.

REALISATION .

202

and the consequence is, less work is fair and reasonable to both buyer and seller.

done, and done not so well.

The manipulation of farm labour is STOCKING A FARM . also defective in most parts of Ireland, where the methodical arrangement of the labourers in the fields seems to be imperTo convey a practical view of stocking fectly understood. a farm, we will enumerate the imple ments of husbandry and live stock re Valuing Sheep Stocks. quisite for a 5 -course rotation upon a In the majority of cases either the farm of, say, 500 acres. The prices of

landowner or the incoming tenant is implementsmay differ at different places,

bound to take over the sheep stock according as they are purchased at sales from tenants leaving sheep farms.

The price to be paid is usually fixed in one of the three following methods. 1. Two arbiters visit and examine the stock as to quality at Whitsunday, and fix the price after the October Falkirk

or fromimplement-makers. The prices here noted down are those at Edinburgh in 1890, and it was necessary to name a

price to make the statement intelligible. This is the statement of the stocking the entry to the fallow -break being at

2. The incoming and outgoing Martinmas, and to the grass land and tenants choose an arbiter each ,andthese houses at Whitsunday, the incoming ten

Tryst.

OOOO

оооо

choose an oversman, who fix the price at ant thus laying down all the crops in his Whitsunday. 3. The incoming and out- first year : going tenants choose a mutual arbiter, who fixes the price at once at Whit- 11 Work -horses, from 4 to 6 years 4400 old, at £ 40 a -piece sunday. This last is the simplest and A brood -mare in foal 35 most natural plan. . old 30 A harness -horse, 5 or 6 years ers In the case of two .

.

arbit

and an

There has been much discussion

from

time to time as to the excessive prices at which sheep stocks are often valued over

18 12

draught i Shorthorn bull

•

10 Cross- bred cows, at £ 16 each

OOO

Excessive Valuations for Sheep.-

5

or filly, for the I 1-year-old colt or filly, for the I 2 -year -old colt draught

o ооо

the actual work to do, the two arbiters being inclined to act rather as advocates than as independent judges.

Poultry

o

rsman being appointed, it very often ove happens that the oversman has most of

25 160

20 Cross - bred calves, part un

weaned , at £ 3, 1os. each 20 Cross -bred 1 -year -old steers .

and heifers,at from £7 to £9 each, say .

70

о

160

O

0

0

.

worth more to the man who is to con

that an outgoing tenant, by being forced to dispose of his entire flock at a certain time in the open market , might sustain serious loss.

But while there is much to

each

.

2 Tups

.

2 Sows, I boar, and 4 shotts 14 Calves for rearing, at 358. 6 Sets of work-harness , each set to contain the following .

be said on behalf of the outgoing tenant

in this matter, it is unquestionably a much mistaken policy which saddles an incoming tenant with a stock of sheep

back - bands, 2 pairs of long and i pair of short chains,

intrinsic worth.

14 IO

24 10

articles :

2 Bridles, 2 collars, 2 cart. saddles and breeching, 3

which have cost him more than their

304

‫ܘܘ‬

tinue them on their familiar pastures than they are to any other buyer, and

160 Ewe and wether hoggs, at 38s.

OOOO

to incoming tenants. It is argued with 120 Ewes and their lambs, at 6os. each much truth that a good stock of sheep is Збо о

2 pairs of cart and 2 pairs of trace chains, 2 cart and I trace belly - band, 2 iron back -bands, i leading-chain

The interests of the incoming tenant and belt, i pair of cart ropes, long and short cart of being safeguarded ,as are those of the and plough -reins, 2 nose at £ 10, 10s. each set outgoing tenant ; and if the system of i Set ofbags, gig-harness handing over flocks by valuation is to be are just as important, and as deserving

O

Carry forward, £ 1737 10

O

0

7

OO

permitted to continue, valuators must be

63

STOCKING A FARM.

Brought forward, £ 2057 19 9 0 12 o 2 Hand -picks

o

I Mattock

O

i Iron foot- pick

O O

2 Tilt -carts, at £ 12 10 Frames for single carts, 228. .

each .

0

24

0

2 Small stone - hammers i Iron lever and wedges

II

2 Tar -kits 2 Oil -tins .

O

6

6 Stretchers for trace - horses, at Is .

6 Iron ploughs,at £ 4, 108.

OO

100

o

carts, at £ 10

оо

10 Whole - bodied single - horse

27

6 Slides for ploughs, at 2s. each ploughs, at £ 4 .

12

2 Iron scufflers, at 45s.

O

4 10

swing- tree, at 55s. i Carriage for harrows

OO

5 Pairs of harrows, with master 13 15 O

3

128., and an extra one

•

1 Pair of harrows forgrass-seeds 2 Grubbers, at £7

0

O

0

O 18

1 Sheep -crook : 1 Bathing-stool

o

3

2 Tubs for bath for sheep

O 15

2 Pair of wool-shears

O

5

2

10

O TO

6

0

i Beam , scales,and weights, for wool .

i Buisting - iron anii tar-kettle for sheep

2 Hangers, and skewers for sheep when slaughtered 2 Potato -graips 9 Basketsfor potatoes, at 9d.

3

0

2

o

6

0

6 9 7 6

10 Turnip -hoes, at 9d. each 10 Weed -hooks for weeding corn , at 6d . each

9

0 10

10

4 Rope-twisters, at 6d.

Oo

6 6

1

Oo

4 6

0

0

gd.

6 Short do., at 58. each

o

5

O

6

2 Combinedmowing and reap

2

6

ing machines, £16

32

2 Stubble-rakes for above, £2 .

0 O

4

2 Wooden hay - collectors, £ i , 0

2 Hay -rick or corn -stack water proof covers, 18' x 18 ', 60s.

6 40

I Sheaf-binding harvester I Sheaf- carrier , for above

byre, at 38. 6d .

O 10

6

2 Mud -hoes, at 28. 3d.

o 4

6

2

12 Vermin -proof iron corn rick stands, 14 feet in diameter, at 90s .

.

54

o o

OOOOOO only O

i Liquid manure chain1.. )pump,

1

10 feet i Oil - cake breaker

0

O

o

O 17

6

I Axe I Saw

i Turnip - rammer, 148. , and trochar, 38. 6d ., for cattle . i Turnip -cutter for sheep

4

0

I Do. cattle

I

10

1 Sledge-hammer

6 Turnip -pickers, at 2s. each

0 12

i Grindstone

5 3

‫ܘ‬

3 15

i Pruning -knife i Breasting-knife

0 5 O 15

0

0

0

Carry forward , £2057 19 9

4

Carry forward, £ 2244 13 8

оооо

uurwiewnia

6

OOO

3 To

158. 0

O ооо

stack forks, at

i Hedge-knife, large

O 18

o

OOOOOOOOOO

6

i Dutch hoe

divisions

O

I

0

i Hedge-spade.

i Metal trough for pigs, with

o

O 18

0

3 Ditching -spades, at 38. 3d.

with 4 prongs , for. cow

6

0

IO

90

3 Dung -hawks, I with 2 prongs, I with 3 prongs, and I

O

0 15

2

14

I Three -row drill manure distri.

and

clyster- pipe, and drink - horn i Boring-rod and spirit-level for draining

8 10

7

14 10

Is. 6d .

O

1 Set ofphlenies, blood - stick,

i Long ladder, 20 feet long, at 9d . per foot 2 Half-long do. , 12 feet long, at

o

22

4 Field

10

O IO

i Drill-machine for sowing corn

7 Stable- forks, at Is. 6d. 2 Longforks, at 28. . 4 Half-long forks, at is. 6.

5

I

at los .

i Horse hay- rake

i Broadcast sowing -machine

2 Ditching -shovels, at 38. 3d.

0

2 Horse -sheets, I at 20s. and i

68. each

O 16

.

4

8 Hay-rakes, at Is. 3d. each

6

buter

O

6

i Wheelbarrow

i Drill -scarifier, for paring sides of turnip drills, & c. 9 Graips for dung, at 25. 4 Spreading graips, at 18. 6d. 7 Lime-shovels, at 35. 6d .

38. 6d..

So Corn -eacks, at 18. 2 Stable -pails, at 2s . 6d .

o 7

i Notched drill-roller

machine

2 Ruskies for carrying seed, at

.

20

i Turnip double-drill sowing

i Imperial bushel and strike 2 Sowing sheets

3 Scythes for mowing grass, at

2 Two-horse rollers, of metal, at £ 10 .

i Bull's chain

O

OOOOOOOOOOO ооооо O OOO o

s, with ironpoints, 6 Feeatrin18.g -pole 3d.

5

3 12

3 Long swing - trees, for drilling, at 28 , 6d .

015

ооо оооооо

5 Full sets of swing - trees, at

0 8

2

o

double mould - board

OO

3 Iron

0 12

0

OOO

7 10

.

6 8

NO

758. each

OO

2 Chilled ploughs for stubble and spring ploughing, at

7 Cows' bands .

convier A

o

4

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collar

OOOOO

0

Riding -saddle and bridle, and stall

OOOOOOO

Brought forward , £ 1737 10

203

OOOOOOOOO

REALISATION.

204

turnips, at is. each

2 Hay - racks for sheep, at 558. each .

20 Sheep-troughs, at 6s. 300 Net -stakes, at 272d. each 20 Sheep -nets, at 118. each i Mallet for driving stakes

war OO OOO

Brought forward , £ 2244 13 8 £50 to £ 100; and household furnish 6 Knives for topping and tailing

6

o

5 lo 0

6 3

2

3

3

2

140

6 - horse

water-

.

Ifsteam of high - pressure

£210 I 20 o

i Barn -steelyard and weights i Sack -barrow , with wheels 2 Handbarrows for lifting sacks of corn , at 78. 6d. each

4 5 O 16

at is, 6d . each ‫ܝܘܝ‬ ‫ܘܘ‬

6

at 28. 4d. each at 38. 3d. each at 28. 6d. each

may require per acre . For good mixed capital per acre would suffice.

Só features, from £ 12 to £ 20 per acre, or 2

i Barn - stool

3

i Wooden hoe, for corn

I

2 Chaff -sheets 6 Barn - brooms

7 3

at 38. eachtwine -shovels,and Corn -needles 26 Sack clew of

Where

stock rearing and feeding, and more particularly dairying, are predominating even more, may be profitably employed.

5

i Gantress for large beer -barrel i Hedger's axe

Every

4

i Slap -riddle, at 25.

i Meal -ark 6 Milk - tins, 2s, each 6 Small -beer barrels, 38. each

number of stock than others,

farm , therefore, must be judged by itself in deciding as to the amountof capital it

0 15 0 husbandry farms, from £8 to £ 10 of

4 Barn weights for filling corn , 2 Oat wire -riddles, at 25. each

The amount of capital which the ten ant should have will depend largely upon

the system of farming to be pursued. Grain -growing employs less than the rearing and feeding of stock , and some farms will of course carry a much larger

O

OOO

If of horse -power Dressing -fanners .

O

0

o

ler, and bruiser,

With a

be taken at valuation, more capital is 076 required than with a Martinmas entry .

Threshing machine, with hummel

11

cases even less would suffice.

• Whitsunday entry and the new grass to

5

i Horn for blowing at fodder time .

year to from £ 4127 to £4382. to £8, 155. per acre. In many cases much more would be required, in some

6

OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO

man

This would

bring the tenant's outlays in the first Capital per Acre.— The amount of

8 10

2 Stable -lanterns, at 28. 6d. each 3 Others, i for steward , i for shepherd, and i for cattle

ings, which vary so much that no partic ular sum need be named .

capital represented above is from £8, 58.

2

i Hay -knife i Chaff- cutter

2 Wheat 2 Sieves

6

o

i Driver for stakes

2 Barley

0

INSURANCE AGAINST FIRE AND DISEASE.

It is short-sighted policy in a farmer to neglect the insurance of his furniture, his stock, and his crop against destruc tion by fire. He should insure his

2

3

0

O

18 3

0

2

entire furniture, as the chances are it will be consumed before the house is

Total

£2441 6 10

burned down.

The premium for insurance is now so

In addition to this sum of £2441 , 6s. moderate that no farmer should hesitate Iod ., there would be other substantial to provide himself with the comfort and outlays during the first year, and before safety which full insurance affords. the tenant can have any stock or produce

The tenant should covenant with the

to dispose of. The chief of these items landlord for the payment of insurance would be - manual labour for the year, on buildings - farm -house, steading, and amounting perhaps to from £ 430 to hinds' houses — for they are the landlord's. £ 500 ; artificial manures, say from The corn and live stock being his own , £ 140 to £180 ; seed for the corn and the tenant should pay for their insurance. root crops, from £ 130 to £ 150 ; grass Live Stock and Fire.- We may here and clover seeds, from £75 to £ 120 ; mention a pretty sure mode of taking corn for the farm -horses, from £110 to horses out of a stable when it is on fire. £ 130 ; six months' hay for ditto, from The horse is so timid an animal at the 270 to £80 ; half - year's rent and sight of fire that he will rather remain in taxes, & c., say £ 675 ; various, from the stable than venture out of it ; but if

INSURANCE AGAINST FIRE AND DISEASE.

205

the man who goes to take a horse out of conduct the business of the club, and the stable would strip off his coat, or take with whom shall rest the decision as to a sack or chaff-sheet, and throw it over the admission of members. Each mem

the horse's head, so as to blindfold him, ber to pay to the treasurer, on the first he will easily lead the horse out by the Saturday in every calendar month, his head . Cows may be treated in the same subscription (in advance) of is. for each manner, as they are accustomed to be cow he may have entered. Any member

led ; but it is doubtful if feeding cattle whose cow shall die to be entitled to re would submit as easily.

ceive from the club the sum of £ 10. No

Fire - extinguishers. - Several patent ' fire-extinguishers” —liquid enclosed in small bottles to be dashed upon the flame — are now sold , and are found to be of great service in checking a conflagra-

allowance to be made to any member in respect to any cow above 12 years of age. When a cow dies, the skin to be long to the owner of the cow ; but if the carcass can be sold, the money to be paid

tion at the outset.

to the funds of the club.

If a cow dies

It is a good plan to have a "fire-hose” in calving, the calf to belong to the owner with water-pails at convenient points in of the cow. Any member neglecting to the steading, so that in the event of fire pay his subscription for threesuccessive

breaking out something effective might months to be deprived of all benefit from the club, and to forfeit what he may have Insuring Crops. Farmers may also previously paid. Any member leaving

be done to check it.

insure their crops against the loss in- the district, or ceasing to keep a cow , to curred by hail -storms, but this is not be entitled to receive from the treasurer

done to any great extent. Sometimes hail does material damage in England, especially to the proprietors of hothouses ; but in Scotland it is very seldom that serious loss is sustained from this

his proportion of the funds then in hand, after deducting therefrom £ 20, which

cause ,

for each cow he may enter, such a sum as may be the proportion of the general

Live Stock Insurance. Excellent facilities are now afforded farmers for in-

suring their live stock , not only against fire, but also against loss by disease and accident, as well as against foaling and calving risks. Several enterprising companies have devoted special attention to live stock insurance, and the terms offered to farmers are very moderate. He is

was given by Lord Yarborough to the

funds on the establishment of the club. A new member to pay on his admission, funds to which each cow in the club

would be entitled, after deducting there from Lord Yarborough's subscription of £20. If the funds in the hands of the treasurer shall at any time not be suffi cient to pay the allowance for any cows

that may die, the members immediately to make up the deficiency. The monthly

a prudent farmer who provides ample in- subscriptions to be discontinued at the surance protection against fire, disease, discretion of the treasurer, whenever he and accident.

Cow - clubs . — Cow - clubs are a sort of

shall consider the funds in hand sufficient

as a guarantee, until reduced by deaths

mutual insurance against loss. They or otherwise. On the first day of January were established and are supported by in every year the treasurer to make out labourers and hinds who possess cows, an account, showing his receipts and pay

and to whom the loss of their cows by ments during the preceding year, and the calving or disease would be a very serious balance remainingin his hands, and cause matter.

the same to be printed, and a copy sup

The following are the rules of the plied to each member. Brocklesby and Little Lumber Cow club ' : The object of the club is to secure each member, by a system of mutual assurance, from sustaining individually the whole loss arising from the death of a cow — the loss being thus divided amongst all the members. Rules :

Mutual Insurance against Disease. An admirable example of the benefits which farmers may secure for themselves by a system of mutual insurance against loss in live stock by disease is afforded by the means which the farmers of the

A treasurer to be appointed, who shall Rhins of Galloway protected themselves

REALISATION .

206

from the ravages of pleuro-pneumonia

In connection with this society, and

and cattle-plague. showing the benefit to be derived from This successful scheme of mutual in- insurance, one case of a small stock of

surance is fully described in the Transactions of the Highland and Agricultural Society of 1890, by Mr W. H. Ralston, Culmore, Stranraer ; and as the system is

from twenty-five to thirty cows is men tioned where not a single death of any kind had occurred for years, in which eventually pleuro-pneumonia broke out,

one which deserves the consideration of and every animal died, or was slaughtered farmers in other parts of the country, to prevent the disease spreading, the and which seems capable of extended usual compensation being paid. The so operation, we take the liberty of produc- ciety was thus the means of preventing

ing here the greater part of Mr Ralston's further outbreaks, while compensating paper, as follows :

the farmer in a great measure for the loss À Former Effort.— The system of of his stock, who must otherwise have mutual insurance of stock seems to have been a very heavy loser. had a hold among the Rhin farmers for

A number of outbreaks of pleuro took

some time - probably the fact of it being place about this time ( 1868-1871), all of entirely a dairying district (dairy stocks which were summarily dealt with. In having usually a great percentage of every case the stocks were bought up deaths) may in somemeasure account for and slaughtered, the healthy carcasses this-as over twenty years ago we find sent to market, and the affected ones an insurance society , known as the buried ; while the sum required for “ Lochans Mutual Cattle Insurance So-

compensation was raised partly by vol. untary subscription and partly by the local authority.

ciety ,” in operation within a given district, whose policies covered deaths of all descriptions among cattle. The office bearers were chosen from ,and the society managed by, the farmers themselves. The premium charged was necessarily high.

seenthat a society insuringagainst losses by pleuro, cattle-plague, and other deadly contagious diseases, would be likely to

From what we can learn, it ranged from

succeed, as it would take the place of

Insurance Society. It began to be

25. 6d. to 48. per head - evidently depend- voluntary subscriptions in dealing with ing on the rate of mortality for theyear. outbreaks, and each stock -keeper would

The method pursued was to have all the then be on an equalfooting in providing insurers' stocks valued at Martinmas in for losses, besides having the right to each year, by valuators appointed from compensation in case of loss himself.

among the members for the purpose,who Consequently, in January 1872 a public had to be notified when any additional

meeting was called to consider the ques

animals were purchased, in order to have tion, at which a resolution was passed them also valued ; and when an animal was found ailing, a member of committee

forming what is now known as the

means had been taken towards its re-

in mind that at this time there was no

“ Rhins of Galloway Cattle Insurance was sent for, who saw whether proper Company (Limited). It must be borne

covery,and who, in case of death,granted provision by the Privy Council for deal a certificate for production to the trea- ing with pleuro by slaughter and com pensation, the Act for this being passed It was ultimately found that a few of in 1878. Had the same rules been in the rger farms, carrying from eighty to force in 1872 as are now, it is probable surer when compensation was sought.

one hundred and twenty cows, had a this company might not have been form

greater proportion of deaths than those ed ; but the members being now fully under sixty cows or so, and were thus

alive to its benefit, it is still carried on,

receiving more than their share of benefit. particularly as there is no security that This, together with the heavy premium, the rules at present in force will be con was the cause of the withdrawal of a tinued for any length of time. number of the members and the break-

up of the society. i Fifth ser., ii. 19.

Objects . — The objects of the company, as set forth in the “ Memorandum and

Articles of Association ” appended hereto, are to “ limit the ravages of diseases of

INSURANCE AGAINST FIRE AND DISEASE.

207

cattle, and to mitigate their pressure on tion, repaying its members their assess individuals.” ment, which amounted to £74, 155. id. Raising Funds. - In order to accom-

Division of Funds. — As before stated ,

plish this, it was agreed that “ the annual the stipulated sum of £ 5000 having ac payments from members for insurance cumulated in 1884, it was resolved to

and voluntarysubscriptions shall annually collect nothing further from members in be accumulated and invested by the directors of the company as a fund primarily liable for losses, until it shall amount to the sum of £ 5000, and until that sum

the meantime, and the capital being well invested, the sum continued to accumu late until February 1888, when it had

is accumulated no dividend shall be de-

solved to divide the half of the funds in

reached over £ 6000.

It was then re

clared . ” The rate payable by members the form of a bonus to the members, ac was is. per head annually for every ani- cording to a scheme of division which was mal insured.

The landlords also at first,

drawn up and approved of by the com

until the accumulation of the £ 5000, pany. subscribed at the rate of 2s. per £ 100 Reducing Premiums. - As there was of rental. The sum aimed at was reached

now no such immediate need for a rest

in 1884.

fund, and the sum of £ 3000 being in

Compensation . The compensation to hand, it was resolved toreduce the an be paid was at first limited to three- nual premium from is. to 6d. per head fourths the value of the animals dying ; for every animal insured, as an induce but after 1878, when local authorities were bound to deal with the disease in a

ment to farmers who had not yet become members to do so, and thus widen the

somewhat similar way, the compensation scope of the company for good. Tuberculosis. - There is a feeling for all animals dying by disease or slaughtered was increased to full value - i.e ., the abroad among a number of the members

difference between what was paid by the that the company ouģht also to cover local authority and full value was made deaths from tuberculosis, as no disease up by the company.

among milk stock causes such an annual

Stamping out “ Pleuro.” — At the formation of the company it was universally admitted - in fact, proved by actual experience ---although not embodied in the rules, that the only way to free the district of pleuro was by stamping it out ;

mortality; while it is held by others that the premium which would be required to cover it in addition would be prohibitive. But as the subject has not been as yet formally before the company, there isno official opinion by which to judge what

and this has been adhered to with un-

will ultimately be determined upon. Lesson Taught. — The success of this

qualified success, all outbreaks having been thus dealt with, with the result that the disease has never once spread beyond the farm where the original outbreaktook place, and this among a class of stock considered peculiarly liable to attack by this disease. As examples of what is done by the company, in 1877 two out-

insurance company tends to show how much can be done in districts or counties by combination for mutual protection against disease. Here was a sum of Ł5000 accumulated in a dozen years by the small annual payment of is. per head for each animal insured, while at the breaks of pleuro occurred. In one case same time covering and providing for the stock was insured, and was dealt with loss from outbreaks of disease. Does it according to the rules of the company, not seem to many to be possible to ex

the sumpayable by the company --after tend the principle - notwithstanding the deducting the sale of the unaffected car- present Order in Council — to those dis casses and the sums paid by the local

tricts which have suffered so much in the

authority — being £ 160, 6s. In the other past from pleuro, and in fact over the case the stock was not insured, but the whole of Scotland ? Should this be done,

tenants in the parish where the outbreak and the outbreaks be asfirmly dealt with occurred raised a voluntary assessment of as they have been in Wigtownshire, to

1 /2d. per £ r on their rental, bought up gether with the local authorities keep the stock , and had it slaughtered, the in- ing a strong hand on the movement of surance company, under a special resolu- cattle, we should hope soon to see the

REALISATION .

208

country free from the terrible scourge of be tificate, signed by two or more directors, rates, shall issued on payment entry money of

pleuro.

and

shall thereafter be in force till the end of The following are the Memorandum and the financial or insurance year then current.

and Articles of Association :

The directors may decline any proposal without assigning reason therefor. The insured shall

in all cases forfeit his insurance, deposits, and RHINS OF GALLOWAY CATTLE IN

right in the funds, by acting as a cattle -dealer ;

SURANCE COMPANY, LIMITED.

and a person shall be esteemed a cattle -dealer who, in the judgment of the directors, buys and sells for profit from time to time cattle,

1. -MEMORANDUM OF ASSOCIATION.

Ist, The name of the company is “ The Rhins of Galloway Cattle Insurance Company, Limited . ”

other than for the bona fide use of his own farm .

5. The whole cattle belonging to a member

2d, The registered office of the company will be situated in Scotland.

3d , The objects for which the company is established are to limit the ravages of diseases

of cattle, and to mitigate their pressure on in-

must be included in the insurance, except cast

cows to be replaced by others, and which, in the option of the insurer, need not be included . In the event of any cattle being added to the

insurance against death by rinderpest and

insurer's stock, he must declarethem , and pay If rinderpest or pleuro - pneumonia shall appear

pleuro- pneumonia, and the doing all such other

in Wigtownshire, no person shall be thereafter

dividuals ; and those objects embrace mutual

the deposit for the additional number.

things as are incidental or conducive to the

admitted to the benefits of the insurance while

attainment of the above objects. 4th, Every member of the company under-

either of the above diseases .

any stock therein is known to be affected by

takes to contribute to the assets of the com-

6. In the event of the annual rates payable

pany in the event of the same being wound up

by a member as aforesaid remaining unpaid for

during the time that he is a member, or within six months after the 22d November in any six months afterwards, for payment of the year, payment shall not thereafter be accepted debts and liabilities of the company contracted (unless as hereinafter provided for) and the in before the time at which he ceases to be a

member, and the costs, charges, and expenses

surance of the cattle of such a member shall cease and determine, and lie shall forfeit all

of winding up the same, and for the adjustment benefit and claims in respect thereof, excepting of the rights of the contributories amongst always such benefit or claims as shall have be themselves, such amount as may be required , not exceeding one pound sterling for every head of dairycattle insured by him under class first in number 7 of the articles of association ,

come due to him prior to said 22d November

in any year — the benefits of the said insurance

and the claims of members subsisting only so long as the said annual rates are duly paid as

and 135. 4d, for every head of cattle insured

aforesaid .

under class second in said article.

power of the directors, in their discretion and if they see fit, upon written application being made by such defaulting member within three months after the elapse of the said six months,

Names, Addresses, and Descriptions of Subscribers. II.- ARTICLES OF ASSOCIATION.

1. The company, for the purpose of regis-

Provided that it shall be in the

to accept payment of such arrears of rates, and

upon such paymentthe insurance of such mem

ber and his rights thereunder shall be restored

tration , is declared to consist of two hundred

in the same way as if he had duly paid the

members.

annual rates as aforesaid. Members shall con tinue liable for their respective shares of losses for six months after they have ceased to have

2. The directors hereinafter mentioned may, whenever the business of the association re-

quires it, register an increase of members. 3. Any person desiring to insure with the company shall lodge with the secretary a pro-

interest under this rule.

7. Cattle for the purpose of insurance shall beclassified and valued as follows, viz. :

posal containing an engagement to abide by

Class I. Dairy cows and queys in calf.

these rules, with an inventory of his cattle, on

Class II. Bulls, oxen, and heifers of one

forms to be issued by the secretary ; and on

year old and upwards, and, in the option

the same being accepted by the directors, he shall pay 2s. 6d. of entry money, and a rate of sixpence per head on all cattle owned or pos-

of the insurer, calves. The value of each animal insured shall, for the purpose of this insurance, be held not to exceed

sessed by him above one year old, payable sixteen pounds sterling ; but if, during the life yearly on 220 November, which is the begin- or after the death of any animals insured, the ning of the financial year ; and any member person or persons appointed to examine them entering during the currency of the year shall in terms of article 14 shall certify that such pay as for the whole year. The first payment animals were, when in health , of less value of the new rate of sixpence per head shall be than £ 16 each , their value shall be held to be made on 22d November next .

4. The proposal shall lie for twenty -one days, after which it will be considered, and if approved and accepted of by the directors, a cer-

the sum fixed by the person or persons so to be appointed. 8. Members who are entitled to the benefit of the insurance provided for in these articles

INSURANCE AGAINST FIRE AND DISEASE.

209

shall be allowed the value, subject to the limi- made by such person or persons as may be ap tation in article 7 , of each animal which shall pointed by the directors for that purpose, and be certified, to the satisfaction of the directors their reports, both as to value (subject to art. by the person or persons deputed by them for 7 ) and as to the cause of death, shall be final that purpose , to have died of rinderpest or and binding on all parties. The directors and pleuro, or to have been killed under the provi- their officers are to be at liberty at all times, sions of the law, or with approval of the direc- on reasonable cause, to inspect the stock and tors, and to have been buried in its skin at premises of the insurer, and the insurer shall

least five feet under the ground immediately supply any information respecting the same after death. But declaring always that such compensation shall be subject to the deduction of any compensation which has been received

which the directors or their officers may require.

or in respect of the same animals -- the amount

secretary at least ten clear days before the

15. The decisions of the directors may be by or is payable to such members from the appealed against to the next general meeting local authority or any other public source, for of the members by a written notice given to the payable by the company in such cases being general meeting. But all decisions in questions only such sums as, along with any compensa- with or ainong members, in regard to the in tion so received or payable, shall make up surance or their liabilities under these articles, the full compensation stipulated in these articles.

shall, if not so appealed against, or if affirmed, or as altered by the general meeting, be final

9. The directors shall have power to allow and conclusive, and not subject to question or any actual loss which may be caused by destroying any healthy animal by their order, with the owner's consent, in order to prevent the spread of infection . They may

also, by general or special order, require insured stock, when attacked , or when it has been exposed to risk of infection , to be killed , for which compensation shall be allowed, and they may require any insured animal, when dead to be buried in manner mentioned in article 8.

examination on behalf of any member in any court of law.

16. Whereas the accumulated funds of the

company now exceed £ 5000, and it has been resolved to divide amongst the members one half of the accumulated funds with interest as

at Whitsunday 1887, according to scheme made up and approved of by the company , --the re maining half and future rates and income shall be accumulated and invested by the directors

10. No member insuring shall be responsible, under any circumstances, for a greater amount than one pound per head of the number of the stock insured by him , nor shall members be responsible for one another ; and no lia-

as a fund primarily liable for losses until it shall amount to £ 5000 , and until that sum is accumulated no dividend shall be declared or division made. When the accumulated funds amount to the above sum of £ 5000, the same shall be dealt with as may be resolved by the

bility shall attach to any persons who have

company.

hitherto contributed or who may hereafter

17. In the event of any member dying, leav ing his farm , or becoming bankrupt (but under

contribute voluntarily to the funds of the company.

11. On any animal showing any symptom of illness, the insurer shall be bound instantly to

no other circumstances ), he or his representa tives shall be entitled to receive back the

amount contributed by him , under deduction of his proportion of any losses which may have been paid during his membership.

separate the same, and to keep it separate from his healthy stock, and to give notice within twenty-four hours to the nearest director, and within forty-eight hours to the secretary. The insurer shall use his best endeavours to pre .

beginning, there shall be deducted from the

serve his stock , as if it had not been insured, and shall take care that they have proper treatment, and shall pay the expense of

sum so payable an amount equivalent to what would have been the amount of his contribu tions had he contributed from the first, at the

treatment.

same rate as his actual payments ; and the sum

12. Any member who shall knowingly, or

18. In the event of a loss becoming payable to a member who has not contributed from the

so deducted shall be placed to the credit of

under circumstances which, in the judgment such member in the state of funds. of the directors, evince an unjustifiable want 19. The directors are authorised, in the of caution, introduce cattle from any infected stock or locality, or any diseased animal, or

event of any circumstances arising not at pre sent anticipated, to take any steps necessary

suffer his stock to mix with diseased stock or

for the interest of the company, but they shall,

put them into any infected or tainted building

as soon as possible, call a meeting of the mem

or place, shall forfeit his insurance, deposits,

bers, should any serious emergency occur. The

and payments.

directors shall also have power to appoint com mittees of their own number, and also parish

13. Fraud, wilful misstatements, culpable neglect, or the failure to fulfil any of these conditions, or any attempt to impose upon or deceive the company, shall render the insurance void, and the insurer shall thereby forfeit all

claims to compensation as well as all deposits and payments made by him .

committees of members, and to make general bye -laws, for carrying on the business of the company .

20. The directors are twelve in number, who continue in office till the next general meeting of the company , when the first half of them

14. All inspections or valuations shall be retire, and six are elected in their place,-the VOL. III.

0

ENCLOSURE AND SHELTER.

210

remaining six retaining office for another year, when they in turn retire ; and thereafter yearly in the rotation and order above mentioned .

All retiring directors shall be eligible for re election .

21. The annual general meeting of the company shall be held in December in each year.

TO THE DIRECTORS.

GENTLEMEN, -I propose to insure my cattle

in accordance with the above, and if the pro posal is accepted I engage to abide by the Articles of Association prefixed hereto . Signature.... Date .......

STRANRAER , 3d and 24th February 1888. No......... No.......

PROPOSAL OF INSURANCE

ACCEPTANCE BY DIRECTORS . ..Directors of the above com

We...........

pany, having examined and approved of the above proposal, do hereby accept the same, and declare that the proposer atove named, having paid the deposit, is entitled to the privileges of

BY

The stock proposed to be insured is on the .... parish of ... occupied by the insurer, and the number of

farm of ...

animals to be insured, under Class I. is ......... and under Class II.........being the whole num

an insured member so long as the number of cattle insured remain on the above farm , sub

ject to all the conditions in the Articles of Association of the company.

Signature of Directors

ber possessed by the insurer, except .........cast

{

Date .......

cattle .

ENCLOSURE AND SHELTER. Whenever we associate arable cul

usually mutually maintained by both

ture with pasture, a fence between them proprietors. seems necessary. The fence confines the Divisional Fences.—The divisional stock upon the pasture, as well as pre- fences are laid off according to the vents them trespassing upon the arable natural inclination of the land, the land. On arable farms where no live stock

requirements of the farm , and the variety

of the soil. Fences should run parallel to the ridges, and these should, as a rule, farms which have a large range of follow the inclination of the ground, pasturage, there may be little or no north and south being preferable. When necessity for division fences. It is the fences and ridges do not run parallel, are reared in summer, and on pastoral

sufficient for them to have a ring-fence, wedge-shaped ridges, or butts, are created and fences along the public roads that at one or both sides of the field . On In prachappen to pass through them . In prac account of the inequality in the lengths tice, carse farms are seldom enclosed at

of butts, much more time is consumed in

all, on the idea that the ground is too working them than a square piece of valuable to be occupied by a fence ; ground of the same area. Butts are but such reasoning does not apply to therefore highly objectionable in fields ;

public roads, whence travellers may tres- but as it is scarcely possible to have full . length parallel ridges on every field of a Dairy and mixed - husbandry farms farm, they are sometimes unavoidable..

pass.

require to be subdivided into individual

Butts should be confined to the boun

fields.

daries of the farm.

Straight Fences.-- To preserve neat Ring - fences. - The position of a ring-fence is easily determined as being ness and uniformity in the ploughing of the march between two farms of the fields, the fences should run parallel in same estate, or between the lands of

two conterminous properties.

On ad-

straight lines. Shelter from Fences. — A straight

joining properties, the ring - fence is fence along the crown of a round -backed

ENCLOSURE AND SHELTER.

ridge of ground affords excellent shelter to both sides of it, whether to the N. and S. or E. and W.

A fence occupy

ing elevated ground bestows more shel ter to fields than in any other position ; and that site should usually be chosen for a fence, particularly for a thorn hedge. A serpentine fence in a hollow affords more shelter than a straight one against

Ploughing stubble for bare fallow, October. Length of

Time taken

Time taken

Loss of time on 1 acre

ridge in

to plough 1 ridye .

to plough 1

compared

yards.

Hours. Min.

319 290 280 139

Serpentine Fences.-Itoften happens that the lower ends of fields cannot be

enclosed in straight lines, a rivulet or hollow between two elevations giving their terminations a serpentine form ; hence the fence must follow the waving course of the rivulet or hollow ground, to allow surface-water to run to the lowest point.

2 2 2

102

1 1

45

0

37

O

78 66

1

wind, which always blows with accumu lated force in a hollow .

211

40 30 25 15

acre .

Hours . 8

0

with the standard , Hours. Min .

Standard .

8

2012

O

8

21

o

21

8

45 30 45

O

45

9 IO 10

50

Min .

12 12

54 4 13

2012

1

30

2 2

45 54

4 4

13

4

Second ploughing for bare fallow , January . 280

2

20

8

172

I

100

O

30 55

8 8

2613 52173

9

22 23 25

II2

1

5

8C 137 182 37

O

50

I

20

1

48 25

o

9 10

4

Standard . o 2212 o 4872 1 1 I

18 19 21

3472

1

3072

54

2

59

First ploughing after turnips, April. 292

2 2

30 25

17 21

2

o

8 8 9

Standard .

280 203

32

IOI

1 1

5 30

10 IO

3 18

1 1

141

0

2

4 15

46 I

Shape of Fields. — The shape of fields is greatly determined by unavoidable

From these statements it appears that

obstacles, naturaland artificial. A wind- short ridges generally take longer time ing river or valley will give an irregular to be ploughed than longer ridges. line to the fence at that end, and the Anomalies . — Yet anomalies are ob march -fence may run in a direction to servable in the results. For instance, cause butts ; and a third side may be in the first statement 78 and 66 yards

made irregular by an old ruin, plantation, took longer time than 45 and 37 yards by 1 hour 19 minutes each. In the or precipice. Where no obstacles occur, the corners second statement, 182 yards took longer

of fields should join at right angles, time than 86 yards by 112 minutes. because the plough can go farther into

And in the last statement, 141 yards

square corners of a field than into alter-

took longer time than 101 yards by 15

nate obtuse and acute angled .

minutes to plough i acre in each case. These anomalies might perhaps be ex

It is demonstrable that the shape

conducive to the greatest economy in plained by the shorter ridges being in a more favourable position or state for turnings on short ridges waste much being ploughed, as regards inclination, time, and inordinately long ridges fatigue hardness, softness, than the longer, or horses and lead to the soil being badly that the ploughman had given less time labour is the square, because frequent

washed by the strong currents which

to the horses to turn at the landings

heavy rains form in the long furrows.

than on the longer ridges. Be that as

Straightening

Fields. Where a it may, every farmer knows that short

rivulet or hollow between the sides of ridges take longer time to be ploughed two fields causes irregular butts in each,

parallelism of the ridges of both fields

than long ones.

As instances of anomalies in ploughing

would be preserved byrunning a parallel long ridges, we may mention, in experi fence along each field, shutting out the irregular part, and planting it. Short Ridges Wasting Time.- To show the great waste of time in plough-

ments made also for this work by Mr

P. M'Lagan of Pumpherston, that i acre took only 7 hours 40 minutes to

be ploughed with ridges of 570 yards,

ing short ridges, we may state the results while 420 yards took 8 hours 24 minutes, of experiments made for this work by and 250 yards 9 hours 36 minutes.

W. Hay of Whiterigg, Roxburghshire, on Depth of furrow, texture of soil, action land in different states of cropping. The of horses, and time given in theturnings, ridges were 15 feet in width. come into calculation in ploughing land.

212

ENCLOSURE AND SHELTER .

Wayfares and Fences.

Should a moderately sized fields of 25 acres

on

public road or canal pass through a different parts of the farm , and probably farm , a fence should be placed on each in different soils, a good crop in one of side of it ; a railway is obliged to fence

the fields will almost be insured every

its own line ; and should an old planta- season ; and the whole labour of the tion, quarry, or building stand in the

farm being for the time confined to one

middle of the land to be enclosed, butts moderately sized field , a sufficient time should be placed next these obstacles.

for ploughing land, and a safe seed -time

A public road giving access to fields andharvest for a crop, seem to be placed on both sides is a great convenience to within the power of the farmer against a farm , and saves the making of many a great or sudden change of weather. farm -roads.

The same mode of reasoning for the

Easy access to and from fields to roads size of fields may be applied to every is a great means of maintaining the other sort of farming. health and strength of horses, and of Number of Fields.--The number of saving the wear and tear of carts and fields depends partly on the size of the

farm and partly on the rotation of crops. Size of Fields. — The size of fields The interior of pure clay-land farms depends in a great measure on the devoted to raising wheat should be no nature of the farming ;and yet economy more subdivided than in the number of

harness in winter.

in labour limits both the smallness and members in the rotation of crops. To largeness of fields. subdivide a clay -land farm , on which no Small Fields.-Small fields are ad- stock is reared , into small fields, would

vantageous on mixed - husbandry farms, be to waste good ground on fences. for they enable the farmer to change the

To save expense in working, and waste

stock frequently on the pasture, which, of ground in fences, on smaller farms, as pointed out in the notes on “ Pastur- single fields should correspond in number

ing Cattle ” (Divisional vol. iv. p . 458), with the rotation ; and should a smaller is a matter of much importance . Small quantity of grass or green crop be wanted fields are also useful in that they facili- than a whole field, a temporary fence tate the separate grazing of different maybe erected. classes of stock .

With regard to farms of considerable

Large Fields. - Large fields are prefer- extent on soils of various textures, a

able to small divisions on purelyarable different element from the preceding farms. They are convenient for harvest determines the number of the fields. work, and more particularlyso for steam On enclosing a farm where much stock

tillage. Yet even on this class of farms is reared, mere economy in labouring there is a feeling against very extensive

each field is not so much an object of

solicitude as the welfare of stock ; and Convenient Fields. - Much of course as stock thrive best on fresh pasture, will depend on the size of the farm : and when a few of the same kind are

fields.

a large field on a farm of 60 acres would herded together, it follows, as already If pointed out, that for grazing cattle in they are well shaped there will be little summer each enclosure should be of loss of time in working fields as small small extent. be a small field on one of 500 acres.

even as 5 acres ; and there is a growing

Grass Paddocks. — Although small

fondness for fields of from 5 to 10 acres

enclosures under

in extent.

are unwholesome to grain crops, two

On most farms fields of from 20 to 25 acres will be found to be convenient, and

or three small enclosures of from I to

we do not think that they should be smaller than 5 or larger than 40 acres. Divisions of a Large Farm . — The mixed -husbandry farm of 500 acres gives 4 fields of 25 acres = 100 acres for each division of a rotation of 5 crops. Placing the same crop - green crop and grass in

constant

cultivation

5 acres in grass, near the steading, are of great service on farms on which live stock are reared . They are used by tups when out of season,by calves when weaning, by ewes in lambing, by mares and foals for a few weeks, by a stallion at grass, or as a hospital for sick and convalescent animals. Such small fields

ENCLOSURE AND SHELTER.

213

in grass are of much more value than much subdivided by turf-dykes, which are generally in a state unfit to confine

large fields of equal land .

Access to Water . - In enclosing farms live stock. intended for live stock, access to good

Economical Fencing.-It is in the

water should never be overlooked, though best mixed -farming districts, notably in it too often is. Should a rivulet or spring the north of England and the best-culti of water be within reach, the fence should vated districts of Scotland,that the fencing be so arranged as to admit the stock to it. of land has been carried out in the most Fencing Pastoral Farms.

Moun- economical and thorough manner, most

tain -pastures exclusively devoted to the suitable for an advanced system of farm use of live stock should be enclosed in ing. There farms are not only com large divisions, cattle and sheep being pletely enclosed , but the size of the en

reared in large numbers. Mountain live closures is made proportionate to the uses to which the soil is applied. Grow strong instincts to search for food ; and ing crops of all kinds find shelter from as the herbage of the mountains is some- the vicissitudes of the weather, and pro what scanty , stock require ample space tection against animals ; and the live to satisfy their wants. stock enjoy peace and plenty, as a recom Shelter Overdone. — The evils of en- pense for confinement. closing fields very closely have been Fencing for Shelter. — In many cases urged against enclosures altogether ; and it is an important object in enclosing it is alleged that crops are liable to be land to afford shelter to plants and stock possess active habits, and have

more injured by being lodged in confined animals in inclement weather.

That a

fields than in open spaces. The allega- fence affords shelter must be a fact cog tion is true ; but it applies rather to an

nisant to every one.

Feel the warmth

abuse in practice than against the prin- of a walled garden -- the calm under the ciples of enclosure. Close fields, of what walls of even a ruin compared to the ever size, should always be kept in grass howling blast around - observe the for

forstock ; and a shed in them for shelter ward grass, in early spring , on the S. will greatly evade the attacks of flies. side of a hedge , compared with that on As regards corn, a sheltered field ripens the N. side — and listen to the subdued its crops earlier than an open one, which tone of the wind under a shed to its

no doubt arises from the forcing influ- boisterous noise in the open air. Sen ence of heat within an enclosure, which sibly felt as all these instances of shelter influence, however, lowers the quality of are, they are but isolated cases. grain in comparison with that on open In more extended spheres, cottages fields.

Waste of Ground by Fences.-

stand in a calm in the midst of a forest, come the wind from whatever quarter it

When fields are very small and fences may. Farm -steadings lie snug under the broad at the base, as in hedges, the loss lee-side of a hill. Whole farms are un of ground may be very great. This is affected by wind when embayed amidst

the case in many parts of England, espe- encircling hills; and be the means of cially in the south - western counties, shelter great or small, the advantages where much valuable ground is occupied derived from them are sensibly felt. Shelter from Wall and Plantation. by beautifully luxuriant, but greatly overgrown hedges. John Grant of Exeter -As an instance of the benefits of stated that he ascertained by measure- shelter afforded by even a low wall to

ment that in Devonshire alone the hedges a park from the cutting effects of the are sufficient to encompass the whole of sea air, we give the attached illustra

England, being 1651 miles, subdividing tion (fig.557 ) of a scene on the estate of only 36,976 acres. The high mounds Gosford, belonging to the Earl of Wemyss, in that county supporting hedges, if ex- in East Lothian. The wall, and the wood

tended in line, would reach from London immediately behind it, are of the same to Edinburgh. The land in Ireland, par- height; but a few yards inwards the wood ticularly inthe province of Ulster, is also rises to a considerable height to some Such a wall, such a belt of wood, such a plantation without a wall, extent.

1 Jour. Eng. Agric. Soc., V. 424.

ENCLOSURE AND SHELTER.

214

if projected on a large scale, and planted the advantages derivable to stock and from shelter. near the top of a sloping precipice or crop Shelter from Plantations . - The rising -ground, would shelter a large extent of country against the prevailing benefits derivable from plantations in winds ; and were such barriers placed improving land are far more extensive

in lines, in suitable situations, across the and important than from stone walls. country, not only its local but also its “ Previous to the division of the common general climate would be greatly amel- moor of Methven ( in Perthshire) in 1793, ” says Thomas Bishop, “ the late iorated .

Instances are not awanting to prove venerable Lord Lynedoch® and Lord

re

Fig. 557.--Shelter afforded by a low wall against a cutting blast.

Methven had each secured their lower individuals. The progress made in im slopes of land adjoining the moor with proving the land was very slow for the

belts of plantation. The year following first 15 years, but thereafter went on I entered Lord Methven's service, and in rapidly, being aided by the shelter derived

1798 planted about 60 acres of the higher from ihe growth of the plantations ; and moor-ground, valued at 2s. per acre, for the whole has now become fair land,

shelter to 80 or 90 acres set apart for bearing annually crops of oats, barley, cultivation, and let in three divisionsto six peas, potatoes, and turnips; and in

PLANTING AND REARING HEDGES.

215

spring 1838, exactly 40 years from the can hardly be accomplished but on a time of putting down the said plantation, scale that would render it of national I sold 4 acres of larch and fir (average importance; for the attempt on a com

growth ) standing therein for £ 220, paratively small property would confer which, with the value of reserved

es,

as much benefit on the property on each

and average amount per acre of thinnings side of it as on itself, so that the pro sold previously, gave a return of £67 prietor of a large estate would not incur " 1 per acre. the expense of sheltering it entirely. It On the summit of Shotley-fell, 16 miles would be desirable were proprietors of

W. of Newcastle-upon -Tyne, M. Burnet upland districts to have a mutual under of Shotley -bridge enclosed 400 acres of standing on this subject, and plans could moorland with high stone walls, and

then be adopted which would have the

cropped the ground in an easy manner effect of sheltering a great extent of for the soil. The land was thus kept in country at a comparatively small cost. good heart, but the soil being very poor, stock advanced but little, and

conse

quently the land would not have let for above 6d. an acre, even under the best management, and after all that had been

PLANTING AND REARING HEDGES.

Permanent Fences.

The permanent

fences of fields are usually constructed

of either hedges or low dry-stone walls. field was put within a plantation, andthe In Scotland hedges are made principally

done for it ; but the central part of each

improvement was then surprising. The of thorns, and in England of various cock’s-foot grass grew 3 or 4 feet high, plants — thorns, beech, hornbeam, holly, and the young cattle throve very much privet, myrtle. Turf walls are common better than before the land was planted. ? field -fences in Ireland. Plantations Beautifying the Coun-

In late years

wire fences have been introduced , but

try. Besides affording shelter, planta- from the nature of their materials they tions beautify the appearance of the country. “ The plantation of Muirton in Ross-shire," observes Mr Mackenzie, “bas

cannot be regarded as permanent in the sense of hedges and walls. Temporary fences consist of wooden palings, hurdles

already, in 1836, and will yet in a greater of iron and wood, nets, dead hedges. degree, improved the climate of the

We shall first direct attention to the

surrounding district, as well as afforded planting of thorn hedges. shelter and warmth. Already the plan Planting Thorn Hedges. tations relieve and delight the eye, and spread a beauty and freshness around the Time for Planting .--- Winter is the scene. Muirton formerly looked a bleak season for the planting of thorn hedges.

and barren wild, while the opposite

It may be begun immediately after the

highly cultivated estates of Brahan and

fall of the leaf in autumn, and continued Coul were the delight of every passing till April, when no snow or frost is on traveller ; but with these it may now vie the ground, and the soil is not so wet as both in riches and beauty.” to be poached by working. Fencing in Upland Districts. The The young hedge will thrive the better

upland districts throughout the kingdom are still in many cases deficient of en-

the sooner it is planted in winter. Preparing the Ground. The ground

closures. In many parts hill-farms have should be prepared for thorn-plants. It no march -fences, and the want of them

should be bare - fallowed, limed , and

is often the cause of much inconvenience manured. Thorns planted on unprepared to the tenants. ground are liable to be choked with Shelter on Upland Farms. — The weeds the first year, and be annoyed great desideratum , however, on such farms is shelter, which cannot, in such

ever after.

Railway Fences .-- The railways are

situations, be afforded by any single obliged to fence their lines, and where fence . The shelter of upland districts stones are plentiful they build stone-and 1 Jour, Agric., xi. 327. Ibid ., xii. 51 .

lime walls. Where good soil is found, and stones scarce, they rear thorn hedges. Where both stones and good soil are

ENCLOSURE AND SHELTER.

216

awanting, they erect wire fences or

prune the thorn plants when necessary.

wooden palings. Until the thorn fence A ditcher's shovel, fig. 559, is needed to

can protect itself, a wooden paling is put clear out the bottom and sides of the ditches ; its face is one foot broad and Trench -planting.- Among the many one foot long, with a tapering point, and helve 28 inches in length, changes which the railway system has made in the customs of this country, with a cross -head. This is a

up next the field .

there is none greater than in the plant ing of a thorn hedge as a field -fence. For many years the bank -and -ditch system of

planting prevailed. Now and henceforth the trench -planting of the thorn in the line of fence introduced by the railway engineer will be universally followed . We will therefore describe the simple

useful shovel for cleaning up the bottoms of dunghills in soft ground, much better than

the square-mouthed shovel. Hawthorn

Plant. -- The

plant employed in the con struction of a hedge is the

common hawthorn (Cratægus

method of trench -planting. Tools for Planting. – Before the line

orycanthus). “ On account of

of fence can be planted with thorns, cer tain implements are required for the

says Withering, “ the sharp

work. A strong garden -line at least 70 yards in length , having an iron reel at

the stiffness of its branches, "

ness of its thorns, its roots not spreading wide, and its

capability of bearing the

one end, and a strong iron pin at the

Fig. 5,59 , – severest winters without in

other, is required to show, upon the ground , the exact line of the fence be

Shovel. jury, this plant is universally preferred for making hedges,

twixt the stakes ; and there must be a whether to clip or to grow at large.”) few pointed wooden pins with hooked Transplanting Thorns. — Thorns

heads to keep the line steady, whether should never be planted in a hedge till in a straight line or curve.

they have been transplanted at least two

A wooden rule, 6 feet in length, di- years from the seed-bed, when they will vided into feet and inches, having a have acquired a girth of stem at the root cross-head of about 2 feet ' in length of one inch ; a length in all of 3 feet, of

nailed at right angles to it, is required which the root measures i foot, as in to measure off short distances at right fig. 560, which is on a scale of 1/2 inch to i foot, and which is in a fit state

for transplantation. As thorns are usu ally transplanted too thick in the nur sery -lines, to save room , and to draw them up sooner to tall plants, we would

advise them being purchased from the nursery at that age, the year before they are to be transplanted in the fence, and laid in lines in garden mould , or deep dry soil. By this process the stems acquire a cleaner bark and greater strength, and the roots become furnished with a large number of fine fibres, which

will greatly promote the growth of the young hedge, and repay the additional Fig. 558.-- Hand - pick.

trouble bestowed on the plants. But when plants are not to be so

treated, the bundles, containing 200 angles. There must be spades and an plants each, should be immediately loos iron tram -pick, to remove large stones, ened out on their arrival from the nur as well as a hand-pick, fig. 558, for small sery , and the plants sheughed in in the stones on hard ground, 18 inches long in ground — that is, spread out thin and up each arm, and 3 feet long in the helve. Each man has a sharp pruning-knife to

1 Withering's Bot. , iii. 561 .

PLANTING AND REARING HEDGES. right in small trenches in a convenient

217

man takes and keeps by his own particu

part of the field, in dry earth heaped lar part of the operation. against them , to protect the roots from Surveying the Ground.—The ground frost, and to keep them fresh until along which the line of hedge is to be planted . The plants are taken from the planted should be surveyed before the sheughs when wanted.

commencement of work, and where the

Hedge - planters. — With these mate- surface is uniform and level the planting

rials provided,workmen must be engaged. may proceed at once ; but where hol lows intervene, drain-pipes or conduits must be made below the hedge to convey away the water that might stand in them after the hedge has been planted. It is pr

ec

e

understood that the soil in the line of

fence has been fallowed — that is, plough ed, harrowed, manured, and limed in summer.

Keeping the Line Straight . - If the

line of fence is straight—which it should be, if natural obstacles do not interfere

to prevent it — let the work of fencing begin. Should the surface be level, the line can be drawn straight with the greatest accuracy ; but should elevations

and hollows intervene, however small, great care is requisite to preserve the straightness of the line, because the rising parts of the ground are apt to

advance upon the true line, and the hollows recede from it, especially when

the inequalities are abrupt.

Surveyors

use the theodolite to avoid this error, but it may be avoided by using plenty of poles, to be set not far asunder from one another. Beginning

Operations.

In In

com

mencing, let the hedger, with an assist

ant, take the reel and cord , and, pushing its pin firmly into the ground at the end of the line of fence, run the cord out its full length, with the exception of a small piece to twist round the shank of the reel . Be sure to guide the cord exactly

along the W. face of the poles and stakes at the bottom ; and should any obstacle Fig. 560. - Thorn plant.

to doing so lie in the way — such as clods, stones, or dried weeds - cause them to be

If a considerable extent is to be planted, removed, and the ground smoothed with the number of men required will be four -a hedger and three assistants, who have each his duty to perform , and should be kept at it without change of arrangement. When fewer hands are

the spade; and with your face to the cord, draw it towards you gradually, with considerable force, until it has stretched as far as it can, and then push the shank of the reel firmly into

employed, the men must change from the ground. one portion of the work to another; and

As the least obstruction

on the ground will cause the cord to

when more, one will at times be com- deviate from the true line, lift up the · paratively idle. The work never goes stretched cord by the middle about 3 on so well, or so regularly, as when each feet from the ground, keeping it close

218

ENCLOSURE AND SHELTER.

to the faces of the poles, and let it drop ditch and preparation of plants. Never suddenly to the ground, when, by its elasticity, it will lie quite straight. Place a rather heavy stone here and there upon the cord, to prevent its being

again will the old system be resorted to ; while at the same time, as long as the hedges live which were planted in the old system , they will still be treated ac

shifted from its position. While the cord is being adjusted , let the other two

cording to that system . Prevention from Damp.-As a safe

men bring forward thorn plants to a

guard against dampness in a retentive

convenient spot for the work, covering subsoil, it is advisable to make a drain up their roots with soil. at 4 feet from the line of thorns, 4 feet

Forming the Trench . - The principal in depth, supplied with drain-tiles of 3 assistant with a spade makes a deep rut

inches internal diameter.

in front of the line, working backwards,

Forming Right Angles. — A simple

to form a trench for the plants of 13 or

rule, which practical gardeners employ

14 inches in depth , throwing the soil to in drawing one line at right angles to assistant

The second him in the trench , working with the ditcher's shovel, and the bottom of the trench ; and come upon hard subsoil or a

follows another, is this : From the given point forwards, measure 6 feet along the line, and from clears out the same point measure outward 8 feet ; should he from the further end of the 6 feet stone, he measure to feet towards the end of the reduces the subsoil or removes the stone 8 feet, and the point where the 8 feet with the hand-pick. If a large stone and 10 feet meet is perpendicular to

his left.

comes in the way, it can be removed the given point. with the foot-pick.

This rule is directly

founded upon the celebrated 47th Pro

Laying the Plants. — The third assis- position of the ist Book of Euclid. tant now places a few of the plants upon

Forming Curves. - In setting poles

the cast-out soil, in a line with the for straight lines ordinary accuracy of trench, so as to be in easy reach of the eye will suffice; but in setting them for hedger when he plants them . After 3 curves, where geometrical ones cannot or 4 yards of the trench have been be introduced, taste is required in the

cleared, the hedger begins by setting planner. They can be formed only by

up a plant against the perpendicular setting up large pins in a curve, and side of the trench , working forward on judging of its beauty by the eye, so as one knee, which is protected with a knee-cushion, and placing some soil with his hand against the root of the plant to keep it upright. He takes another plant and treats it in the same manner, placing

the sweep shall naturally accommodate itself to the inequalities of the ground. Curves in fields should be made con

formable to the lie of the land. After large pins are set to show the general

it at from 9 to 12 inches from the other form of a long curve, or series of long plant, at 9 inches in inferior soil, at 12 curves, smaller ones should be employed inches asunder, in good soil. Earthing the Plants.—The third as-

to fill up the segments between the larger, and the cord stretched upon the face of

sistant with a spade follows the hedger, all the pins will show the form of the

and puts loose soil upon the roots of the curves, the beauty of which will be pre plants, tramping the earth firmly towards served by small pins with hooked heads. If a curve on a ditch is required, the them with his foot, while with his hand

he keeps each plant upright. He shovels rutting of the breadth of the ditch should in more soil, until all the cast-out soil follow the cord in its curved position ; has been removed to fill the trench , and but great care is requisite to preserve then the work is finished . the two sides of a curved ditch parallel ; The work proceeds in this way day for if the cross-headed wooden rule is after day, until the line of fence is not held as a tangent to each particular planted . Old System. - It will be observed

part of the curve which the ditch is to

have, the breadth of the ditch will vary

how simple is this system of running considerably in different places, and its thorn hedges as compared with the labo- form will be twisted into broad and nar rious work of thorn -bed and bank -and-

row portions.

PLANTING AND REARING HEDGES.

219

There is no error into which labourers trees should never be planted in the line are so apt to fall as this : they measure of thorns, for it is impossible, even with

the breadth, without thinking of the the greatest care, to rear thorn plants, to consequences, at any angle across a become a good and beautiful fence, under curved ditch. The same error may be their drip. Thorns are impatient of being

committed in forming a curved farm- overshadowed by taller trees ; and trees planted on the top of a mound, betwixt road. Planting along a Water - course . double hedges, not only rob both of mois Where a water -course occurs in a line of ture at the roots, but pour their drip

thorn fence, plant the thorns on the directly upon the branches of the thorns. surface of the ground, as near as possible

“ To planttrees in the line of a hedge,”

on each side of it, above flood -mark . says Lord Kames, " or within a few feet

The water-channel, probably dry in sum- of it, ought to be absolutely prohibited mer, when the

fields are used only for as a pernicious practice. It is amazing stock, can be fenced with paling, or that people should fall into this error arched over with stones if they can be when they ought to know that there procured at a reasonable distance. never was a good thorn hedge with trees

If it is desired to plant a thorn hedge in it. And how should it be otherwise ? on the top of a sunk fence, or along the When suffered to grow in the midst of a

edge of a walk by the side of a shrub- thorn hedge, the tree spreads its roots

bery, or to enclose a shrubbery or a everywhere, androbs the thorns of their clump of trees in pleasure -ground or nourishment. Nor is this all ; the tree, lawn, the plants are planted in a trench overshadowing the thorns, keeps the sun as above described .

Weeds . — Where thorns are planted in

and air from them. At the same time, no tree takes worse with being over

connection with grassy turf, whether on shadowed than a thorn .” 1 the old hedge-bank system or in the Hedgerow - trees are strongly recom

trench - line method, weeds should be mended by the old writers on agriculture rigidly kept down, else they may grow as being the best means of growing tim ber for the navy, and giving shelter to fields; and a writer on timber seems to

favour the plan of planting the oak in hedgerow, as if that tree could not be sufficiently gnarled for naval purposes, and rendered thick in the bark for tan,

in other2 exposed situations than in thorn hedges. It is not unusual to see beech mixed

with thorn as a hedge ; the mixture

makes a pleasant - looking hedge ; but beech itself is not a terror to live stock

in fields. The sweet -brier ( Rosa canina ), too , is frequently mixed with the thorn, and no doubt imparts a delightful per fume to the air after a shower in sum Fig. 561.- Bad effect of weeds on thorns. a Scarcement.

6 Weeds choking thorn plant. c Thorn plant.

mer ; but it soon overcomes the thorns

near it. The crab-apple (Pyrus malus) also displaces thorns in hedges. We have only to view the hedges in the S. coun

so as to prove detrimental to the young ties of England to be convinced of the

561 shows clearly the bad noxious effects of intermixing other plants hedge. Fig. weeds on a thorn fence on a with the thorn. effects of

scarcement.

Hence the advantage of

bare-fallowing the ground which is to grow a thorn hedge. Trees and Hedges.—If cattle are to

be grazed on the fields, beeches or forest-

Thorn Hedges around Plantations. -Where thorns fence plantations, they 1 Kames's Gentleman Farmer, 283. ? Matthew On Naval Timber, 359.

ENCLOSURE AND SHELTER.

220

should be planted at a distance of at field -fences is an isosceles triangle, with a sharp apex and two equally inclining least 12 feet from the nearest tree. Growth of the Hedge.—The young faces. This shape makes an excellent hedge should grow for four years with- fence, as its top recedes from the animal

out being touched. Thorns grow fastest fenced in. Fig. 563 gives an idea of this in a deep sandy loam restingon a porous triangular form . subsoil, and slowest on thin clay on a

tilly subsoil.

Other forms are adopted, as the curved faces and rounded head, which looks well

Pruning.- A common practice with along a public road or near a mansion hedgers is to prune up the face of a house.

It is apt to be covered with a

young hedge the first year, and cut off great weight of snow. There is also the the longer tops. This, how- natural form of the tree. ever, is most injurious treatHedges Injured by Snow .-A seas

ment, for it deprives the onal accident may befall a young hedge young plant of its leaves ; and as leaves are the lungs of the plant, it is thereby so far choked and prevented

in winter-it may be smothered with snow ; and on the mass of snow subsiding by consolidation, its great weight strips off many of the lateral branches, and

from extending its roots and breaks down thetop shoots. There is no acquiring strength. After evading this accident, and the strongest four years thorn plants will branches of the largest hedge may be bear pruning. stripped off by the weight of snow. Pruning well-grown young The young plants must be pruned in hedges consists of only one spring by removal of the injured parts

operation --- switching.

The with a pruning-knife, but no more. No

first switching is cutting in matter though this necessary pruning prominent branches from the leave the young hedge in an unequal majority which constitute the state some of the plants being much Fig. 562.– body of the hedge, and of crushed, whilst others have escaped in

Switching-bill. lopping off the leading shoots jury – let it grow ; and although the to a level line of top. This pruned plants cannot overtake theothers operation is performed with the switch- at once, they will do so in time, and ing-bill, fig. 562, which has a curved the hedge seem as if no accident had

blade 9 inches long,and 1/2 inch broad ; befallen it. a helve 2 feet 3 inches in length ; and its

Cutting Down Hedges. When it is

weight altogether is about 272 lb. It contemplated to cut down or breast over feels light in the hand, and isused with any hedge, it should not be done at an upward stroke, slanting backwards random in any season or year. It should nearly overhead. not be done in the depth of winter, nor Form of Hedge.

When a young when the field is in grass or is coming

hedge is allowed to grow at liberty for into grass, but only when going out of grass ; for, hedges being specially in. tended for fences against stock , it would be absurd to remove them when they would be of use in that respect. Still it will scarcely be possible to

avoid affecting one field or another, as it rarely happens that two adjoining fields are under the same sort of crop; and

in the case of old grass-fields it is not Fig. 563. - Triangular form of thorn hedge.

possible to avoid it; so that the most that can be studied is to avoid cutting

down the hedge as long as the field in

four years, and after its first switching, which it grows continues in grass, what which is merely a trimming, it should be ever may be the state of the field adjoin switched so as to assume its ultimate ing. The compromise between two grass form . The form that is best suited for fields is this — that when the hedge of the

PLANTING AND REARING HEDGES .

221

one going out of grass is cut down, is breasted over is called a debreasting thorns are furnished on the spot for a knife, fig. 564. It has a bla 7 inches dead-hedge to fence the other that is still long, 27/2 inches broad ; a helve 272 to be in grass .

feet in length, in all weighing 6 lb. It

Untrimmed Thorns. — The natural is used in the same manner as the switch method of allowing thorn plants to grow ing -bill ; but being much heavier, and without pruning is admirably adapted employed on stronger plants, it requires for shelter, and should be adopted in the greater labour to wieldit. stormy quarter of the farm ; and as prun Mode of Breasting Over. - In breast

ing is attended with trouble and expense where hedges thrive, they are allowed to grow up where they cannot do harm , as upon heights and in hollows. After having attained its natural height , which , in the thorn, may be 10 feetthe plants acquire thickness of stem ,

ing over an old hedge with this bill, the hedger stands with his right hand to the hedge. From this position the strokes are givenupwards, but near the ground at first; and, to give freedom to the hedger, he first uses the switching -bill to clear away all the small branches that grow out

which will continue to increase for an

of and around the stem to be cut through. Without this precaution, the operating

indefinite number of years.

But while the plant changes its char- hand of the hedger might be severely gradually forsaking the form of a hedge The stem being thick, many strokes will

acter, the stem increases in thickness, lacerated by the straggling branches. plant, and assuming the character of a be required to cut it through ; and many tree - enlarging its head by the lateral of these will have to be given downwards, expansion of the upper branches, and to cut away the wood in wedges. The

elevating its stem by a natural pruning left hand isused to rest and of the lower branches — every year ren- guide the bill. dering itself more unfit for a fence, by

When severed, the stems are laid upon the ground,

presenting a row of bare stems. Trimming Old Hedges. — In this natural tendency of hedges, the hedger should consider that the thorn plant is not in its natural state when placed in line as a fence along the side of a field ; and if he desires to maintain it as a fence,

In cutting down an old hedge, the hedger's light

he must restrain its tendency

axe is used, fig . 565.

to become a tree.

weighs 3 lb., and its helve

He has this

on either or both sides of

the hedge, as the thorns may afterwards be required. Mode of Cutting Down .

It The

in his power, and may even

is 3 feet in length.

make an old hedge resume

hedger uses the axe with both hands, and directs its

its youthful aspect by well

strokes as with the carpen

timed pruning, for such is the accommodating nature of the

ter's

thorn plant.

twigs are first removed by Hedger's are.

Cutting

Down

the switching - bill.

and

The

blow of the axe. Breasting Bank -and -ditch Hedges.

one by lopping

-As many of the existing farm-hedges may have been made on the old bank

the stems and some of the branches at two feet from

the ground, the other by cut ting off all the branches and Breasting Fig. 564.the stems to within a few

The

cutting strokes are made upwards, and the split portion is cut off bya downward

There are two modes

of doing this

ахе .

Fig. 565 .

Breasting Over . — The only sort of pruning suitable for so strong a hedge is cutting it down.

common

and -ditch system , it is still necessary to describe the breasting, cutting down, and plashing old hedges as is done in that .

knife .

system .

The operations of breasting

inches of the ground. The and cutting down are nearly as applica former is called breasting over, the latter ble to the new system when the plants cutting down. arrive at the same state of maturity. The instrument with which a hedge

On determining the age to breast over

222

ENCLOSURE AND SHELTER .

a hedge, it should be noted that its stems the bill, though with a dexterous hand should not be stronger than a hedger cam this seldom happens; yet, to give the cut through with one hand by two or cut a finished appearance, the hedger three strokes of the breasting -knife. cuts off the splinter neatly with his bill, The hedger, on commencing thisoper- held in both hands. All the lateral ation — using the knife in his right hand, branches growing from the stem are cut

and covering his left with a hedger's off in the same manner as far back as leather glove - stands on the hedge-bank, the top of the hedge-bank, with an in near the hedge, with his face outwards, clination corresponding to the slope of and his right hand to the hedge.

its face, so that the backmost branch

After cutting away a few branches at preserves about the same height above the end of the hedge to make room for the top of the hedge-bank as the stem himself to stand close to it, he com- in front does above the hedge-line. mences cutting the principal stem of the plant nearest him, at about the height of his knee above the ground where it is growing. In cutting, he uses the knife

The finished breasting is shown in fig.

566, where the sloping cuts are seen in

by first making a firm cut upward into the stem , the knife perhaps penetrating to the heart ; the next stroke is in a downward direction to meet the inner

end of the first stroke, so that a wedge of the stem may be cut out. The wedge flying off, the next stroke is given in the line of the first, and it may sever the stem ; but if not, another at the furthest corner of the cut, and one at the nearest, will send the knife through. All the cuts with a view to remove the Fig. 566.—Breasted thorn hedge on bank and ditch .

wedge - shaped pieces are comparatively light ; but the upward cuts intended to

a Top of hedge-bank . 6 Bottom of ditch . c Main stem cut through .

sever the stem are given with force ; and both sorts of strokes follow fast, until the main stem upwards above the hedge the stem is cut through : the face of the bank . cut slopes upward. In renewing each The hedger proceeds in this manner

stroke, the hedger's gloved left hand is until the entire hedge is cut down. If ready, the moment the knife is brought the main stems are strong and hard , the

in front of his body, to receive its back hedger's axe should be used. between the fingers and thumb, as a rest

Breasting is best suited to a compar

and a guide for the next stroke. atively young hedge, every branch and Thecut stem will either drop down on stem of which will soon be covered with end upon the ground behind or in front young twigs, which will ere long form a

of the line of hedge, or be kept suspended close structure of vigorous stems, spring by its branches . On the stem being ing from an upward -sloping base. severed, the hedger seizes its lower end

Cutting down an old Hedge.—An

with his gloved hand, and, with the old hedge, however, that has reached its assistance of the knife in the other, pulls natural height of 10 feet, should be cut it asunder from the hedge, and throws it down with the axe within a few inches

endwise either on the head -ridge beyond of the ground. In all cases of cutting the ditch beside him , or upon the head- the stems of thorn plants, the cut sur

ridge of the field behind the hedge-bank, face slopes upwards to the back of the whichever side may have been selected hedge. The cuts on the stems are not in for carrying away the thorns to be made the plane of the line of hedge, but at an into a deadhedge. angle to it ; so that, when viewed in the At the far side of the sloped cut of the direction the hedger is cutting, the cuts stem there may be a small splinter of are not visible, while from the opposite wood and bark, left by the last stroke of direction they almost face the spectator.

PLANTING AND REARING HEDGES.

223

Mismanagement of Hedges.— Hedges ways be, the effect is reversed, the stub

are wofully mismanaged in the cutting is then left sound and smooth, is cut in many parts of the country.

Without clean, and the stem cut off is shattered .”

further consideration than saving the exThe advantage of the proper method pense of a paling to guard a new -cut- is, that “ when this practice is adopted, down hedge, or in ignorance of the the wet does not penetrate through the method of making a dead -hedge from

stub into the crown of the roots, canker

the remains of an old live one, the stems is not encouraged, and the young shoots of an old hedge are often cut over about grow up strong and healthy, and able

372 feet high, to serve as the fence. The to contend against the vicissitudes of the consequence is a thick growth of young twigs where the hedge was cut over, placed at 372 feet above the ground To make an old upon bare stakes. hedge a valuable fence, it should be

weather.” 1 Plashing . — Hitherto the pruning and cutting have proceeded on the supposi tion that the hedge

cut down will make a sufficient fence when it grows again .

cut over near the ground, and a dead- This, however, will not be the case if hedge made with the part cut off to many of the stems are as far asunder as protect it.

to leave gaps between them, even after

But still worse mismanagement is in the mode of making the cuts when hedges are cut down. The bill is used to hack down the stems, instead of to

the young twigs shall have grown up. In such a state the pruned hedge will never constitute an efficient fence with

depends the growth of the future fence,

with a gap which cannot be filled up by

out plashing, which consists of laying cut them off - the branches, whensevered down a strong and healthy stem from from the hedge, being cut off clean, one or both sides across a gap . while the top of the stem , upon which On cutting, where the hedger meets

is shattered to pieces. This barbarous young stems, he leaves a strong supple work is done by givinga downward in- stem at the gap next him, to be plashed . stead of an upward stroke in cutting off the branches from the stems.

Method of Plashing.

The hedger

plashes the stems in the following man

Fortunately for the owner of the hedge, ner : Commencing at the end of thehedge the constitution of the plant counteracts where he began to cut, he prunes off, the mischievous work of his hedger ; for, with the breasting-knife, all the branches hacked and split as the stems are, they

from the stem he left, cuts the stem of

push out young twigs, and conceal, the proper length for the gap, and then though not cure, the injury they have makes an upward cut in it near the ground, on the opposite side to the direc Up and Down Strokes in Cutting. tion the stem is to be plashed, but no — The difference in the effects of the two deeper than to bend it to the horizontal kinds of strokes is thus truly explained position, which should be near and par received .

by Francis Blaikie : “ A moment's re- allel to the ground to fill up the gap

from

flection,” he says, “ will show that it is the bottom . The plashed stem is kept impossible for an edge - tool to pass down by an offshoot from the stem on through a piece of timber without caus- the other side of the gap, or by wattling

ing a severe pressure against one or both it before and behind two or three stems, sides of the wood, because the tool occu- or by a hooked stick driven into the pies space. The teeth of a saw drag the ground near its point, and by a wedge

chips out of the cut, and give the space requisite for the tool to pass, but an edgetool can only pass by pressure. . , . In cutting the stem of a hedge or young tree which is growing upright, if the blow is struck down, nearly the whole pressure falls on the stub or growing stem , which is shattered to pieces, while the stem cut off is left sound ; but when the blow is struck up, as it should al

driven into the cut in the plashed stem , over which is placed a lump of clay to

protect the stem from rain and frost. The system of plashing is illustrated

in fig. 567, where ed is the first plashed stem, cut nearly through at e, and laid along near the ground, across the gap which extends beyond d ; ba is a long 1 Blaikie On Hedges, 33.

ENCLOSURE AND SHELTER .

224

stem passing across the large gap bc ; k close enough for a fence, and then the a wedge of wood inserted into the cut of plash would have been laid across the the plashed stem b to keep it down. The gap ad from an offshoot of a. stem b a extends beyond the immediate Plashing in England. - Plashing is gap from b to c, as there are no means much practised in England, where it is to fasten it down at c, and its end is very neatly executed ; but it seems as if wattled in front of the stem a ; but could good hedges were there sometimes pur

it have been fastened at c, it should have posely cut down to be plashed. Plashes been cut off there. The stem ed origi- are there laid at all angles, and twisted nates at e and not at d, though the gap into all shapes, as if to prove that the

is really beyond d, and not between the thorn -plant can withstand every possible stems c and a, because no offshoot was

torture .

found on a to leave for a plash ; and had “ Plashing an old hedge,” says Lord there been, the stem e d would have been Kames, “ an ordinary practice in Eng cut off, because the stems and a are land, makes, indeed, a good interim fence,

Fig. 567.--Plashing and laying an ou neuge on bank, anu water -taoling a ditch .

but at the long-run is destructive to the will serve the double purpose of easily

plants; and accordingly,there is scarcely getting rid of part of the mud, and of to be met with a complete good hedge doing good to the hedge by thickening where plashing has been long practised. the soil around its roots ; and the re A cat is said among the vulgar to have mainder should be placed on the ditch nine lives.

Is it their opinion that a lip on the head-ridge, to be removed at

thorn , like a cat, may be cut and slashed leisure for other purposes. But the more at without suffering by it ? A thorn is usual and better practice is, when the

a tree of long life. If, instead of being ditch is to be scoured, the hedge is pruned massacred by plashing, it were raised and the hedge -bank repaired . and dressed in the way here described , it Repairing Hedge-banks. — The pro would continue a fine hedge perhaps for priety of combining the work of scouring 500 years." 1 ditches and repairing hedge · banks is scouring Ditches. Immediately con- obvious from these considerations : After nected with pruning hedges are scouring weeding hedges for some years, the earth ditches and repairing hedge-banks. À is removed much from its original posi ditch which conveys a constant stream of tion. Incessant action of the atmo water may have as much mud deposited sphere, and of rain and snow occasion

in it as to require scouring before the ally, upon the inclined surface of the space about the roots of the hedge is able hedge-bank, sensibly co -operate with the to accommodate all the matter that should be scoured out of it. In this case , as

weeding to remove the soil from the roots of a hedge. The effects of these

muc