TOL. XIX. [SEPTEMBER] h.. 9. rc Published Monthly. August & Williams, Proprietors. J. E. WILLIAMS, Editor DEVOTED TO AGRICULTURE, HORTICULTURE, AND THE HOUSEHOLD ARTS, PRINTED AT RICHMOND, Va., BY MACFARLANE & FERQUSSON 1859. SOUTHERN PLANTER.— ADVERTISING SHEET. CONTENTS. On the methods of expressing'the Analysis of a Super- Phosphate, Culture of Wheat, Ashes as a Manure, - - * - Advice about Teeth, ... Industry, .... Mtosure of Manhood, - Fever and Apue, ... Seventh Annual Exhibition of the Va. State Agricultural Society, &c, - American Hydraulic Cements, On i lie Composition and value of Fish-Manure On MannTPs, - Apples, - Au Atmospheric Dryer, Carats Fine, .... Benefit of Drought on the Soil. Plants in Rooms, - Value of Scientific Instruction to Farmers, The Oli! " Red Cent." - A Farmer's Story, ... Plaster or Gypsum, - To Preserve lee and Always have Ice Water, CotTee, its Cost and Culture, Women in the Garden, - Sanitary Precautions, - Tobacco and Its Uses,. *- Pleasant Homes, .... Origin of the Horse, - Cotton in England, .... How the Chinese Make Manure, Managing Windows for Air, - - Betsy Baker's Bonnet, - Important to our Agricultural Community, - Box Edging. ..... Another Cure for Hydrophobia, Preparation for the Wheat Crop, Veterinary College of Philadelphia, - Descriptive Catalogues, &c. - Hungarian or Honey Blade Grass, Beautiful Specimens of Fine Fruit, The Farmer's Journal, - Mr. Pizzini's Candy and Ice Cream Palace, - Agricultural Fairs "of Virginia, 1859, - Finch's Grease Extractor, - Fine Sheep, - Agricultural Exhibitions should be Something more than mere Shows, Gnlloway Cattle, - - Cellar for a Farm-House, • - The Day is Done, - To a Friend Gathering Wild Flowers, A World of Love at Home, - 531 539 544 516 54o 546 546 547 563 564 566 576 576 576 577 577 578 678 578 579 679 579 580 580 581 581 582 583 584 584 584 585 585 585 586 587 589 590 5911 590 590 590 591 591 591 592 59:* 594 694 594 AYER'S ^ ALEXANDEK GARRETT, Cary Street, second door below 13th street, Adjoining the Old Columbian Hotel, RICHMOND, VA., GENERAL COMMISSION MERCHANT, AND DEALER IN GROCERIES, PERUVIAN, ELIDE ISLAND. AND RITFIN'S PH0S- I'HO GUANO, PLASTER, &C. Particular attention paid to the sale of all kinds of country produce : Wheat, Com, Flour, Tobacco, Oats, &c. I have made arrangements with Mr. Jno. M.Shep- p\ku, Jr, one of the i>est judges and salesmen of Tobacco >n this city, to attend to ihe sale of all tobacco consigned to me. Julv 59— lv Cathartic Pills, FOR ALL THE PURPOSKS OF A FAMILY PHYSIC, are so composed that disease within the range of their action can rarely withstand or evade them. Their penetrating properties search, and cleanse, and invigorate every portion of the human organism, correcting its diseased action, and restoring its healthy vitalities. As a conse- quence of these properties, the invalid who is bowed down with pain or physical debility is astonished to find his health or energy restored by a remedy at once so simple and inviting. Not only do they cure the every-day com- plaints of every body, but also many formidable and dangerous diseases. The agent below named is pleased to furnish gratis my American Almanac, containing certificates of their cures and directions for their use in the following com- plaints: Costiveness, Heartburn, Headache arising from disordered Stomach, Nausea, Indigestion, Pain in and Morbid. Inaction of the Bowels, Flatulency, Loss of Jppetite, Jaundice, and other kindred complaints, arising from a low state of the body or obstruction of its functions. Ayer's Cherry Pectoral, FOR THE RAPID CURE OE Coughs, Colds, Influenza, Hoarseness. Croup, Bronchitis, Insipient Consumption, and tor the relief of Consumptive Patients in ad- vanced Stages of the disease. So wide is the field of its usefulness, and so numerous are the cases of its cures, that almost every section of country abounds in persqns publicly known, who have been restored from alarming and even desperate diseases of the lungs by its use. When once tried, its superi- ority over every other medicine of its kind is too apparent to escape observation, and where its virtues are known, the public no longer hesi- tate what antidote to employ for the distressing and dangerous affections of the pulmonary organs that are incident to our climate. While many inferior remedies thrust upon the com- munity have failed and been discarded, this has gained friends by every trial, conferred benefits on the afflicted they can never forget, and pro- duced cures too numerous and too remarkable to be forgotten. PREPARED BY VK J. C. AYER & CO., LOWELL, MASS. Sold by PURCELL, LADD, & CO., Richmond. And by all Druggists. Aug. 1859— Gin. TH E Devoted to Agriculture, Horticulture, and the Household Arts. Agriculture is the nursing mother of the Arts. [Xenophon. Tillage and Pasturage are the two breasts of the State. — Sully. J. E. WILLIAMS, Editor. AUGUST & WILLIAMS, Prop'rs. Vol. XIX. RICHMOND, VA., SEPTEMBER, 1859. No. 9. Proceedings in the Laboratory. By Professor Anderson, M. D., Cliem- ist to the Highland and Agricultural So- ciety of Scotland. ON THE METHODS OF EXPRESSING THE ANALY- SIS OF A SUPERPHOSPHATE. "When the chemical department of the Highland and Agricultural Society was originally established, superphosphate of lime was a manure almost unknown in Scotland. A few farmers had adopted the system of dissolving bones in acid for their own use, but the product was employed chiefly for experimental purposes, and on a very small scale ; and the small quantities of the manufactured article used were brought from England, and principally from Newcastle. Under these circumstan- ces, samples of this manure were rarely sent to the laboratory, and in the few in- stances in which analyses were required, I adopted the plan which had been used by my predecessor, the late Professor Johnston, not because it was the best, but because it did not at that time appear necessary to make any change. Since then the state of matters has greatly altered, — superphos- phate having become one of the staple 34 artificial manures, and having in Scotland reached a consumption which probably ex- ceeds that of guano ; and now, on looking back, it is a matter of regret that a more precise and chemically accurate method of expressing the results of analysis was not adopted at a time when the change might have been brought about without difficulty. That difficulties must attend any alteration in the established methods of expressing the results of commercial analyses is suffi- ciently obvious, because, as they are almost exclusively addressed to persons who are unacquainted with the refinements of chem- ical analysis, they are judged of solely by comparison, and if the usual mode of ex- pression be departed from, it is difficult for any one who is not a chemist to do this in a satisfactory manner. Considerable differ- ences are observable in the form of analy- ses made by different chemists ; but so far as these made in my laboratory are con- cerned, care has always been taken to pre- serve the original form, which, though per- fectly adapted for giving a proper estimate of the value of the manure, is^not the most accurate in a chemical point of view. Cir- cumstances to which it is not necessary to refer in detail, some time back induced me to make a change, which only the fear of producing inconvenience had caused me to 53< THE SOUTHERN PLANTER. defer; and I propose now to explain its na-|rent discrepancy, and can in ture, so as to avoid any misunderstanding 'calculate back to the original, c * as to the meaning of these analyses. .data, and re-construct it accordii^ It is scarcely necessary to observe, that a own views, so that the mode of exp chemical analysis of the most perfect kind ' is of little consequence to him. All aims at expressing the quantities of all the ingredients of the substance analysed, in exactly those forms of combination in which they naturally exist in it ; but the mode in which this is done is not known to the non- chemical reader. Suppose that a sub- stance be found to consist of a mixture of sulphate and nitrate of soda, its analysis of course will state this ; and it is popularly supposed that the chemist separates these two compounds directly from one another, and, weighing them, determines at once the quantities of each ; but this is very far from being the case. On the contrary he ascertains the quantities of *soda, sulphuric and nitric acids separately, and then, by a very simple calculation, founded on the es- tablished principles of chemical science, he ascertains the proportions of soda which belong to the two acids, and, adding th( culties may be evaded by abandoning t. attempt to express the mode of arrange- ment of the elements of the compound an- alysed, and simply setting down the results as experiment gives them ; and this is a plan largely in use among scientific chem- ists. But it is not applicable to commercial purposes ; for the value of a substance which the analysis is intended to determine, not unfrequently depends, to a very great extent, on the particular forms of combina- tion in which its constituents are found ; and even if this were not the case, it would be more convenient to represent some of those substances, not in their separate state, but in that of their familiar commer- cial products.. In applying these observations to the analysis of a superphosphate, it must be ob- vious that, if each of its constituents were to the respective weights, obtains the quan- • separately given, the result would be very tities of each of these compounds. In the ' uninstructive ; for all the phosphoric^ acid case we have supposed, nothing is easier! would appear under one head by itself, ithan the application of these principles, j while the value of the manure realty de- *but it is different when the substances are I pends, not so much on its total quantity, as aiiore complicated, and contain a considera- j on the proportion existing in a state in rb'le number of different elements. If, for j which it is soluble in water; and an analy- ; instance, the substance were found to con-! sis which did not give separately the quan- tain sulphuric acid,, nitric acid, soda, and tities of* that acid existing in a soluble and potash, it would then come to be a question i an insoluble state, would be practically use- f" lime, 14.64 Sulphuric acid, Alkaline salts, Sam! Ammonia, 10.66 I 93 100.00 0.96 New System. 15.54 11.12 Water Organic matter, Biphosphate nf lime, equiva!em bone phosphate made soluble,. ..... Insoluble phosphates' ii.no Sulphate of lime Alkaline ^;i It.-. . . ble phosphates, alkaline salts, sand, and Ammonia — are the same in both anal, but that in the latter, the quantity of sul- phate of lime is greatly increased, # while sulphuric acid has entirely disappeared ; and in place of soluble phosphates we have biphosphate of lime, accompanied, however, by a statement of the quantity of bone phosphate to which it corresponds, and which, it may be noticed, is identical with the soluble phosphates in the old system of expression. The chemist, in examining these analyses, is enabled to infer from them that the materials used to make the manure (in this case most probably bones, coprolites, and acids) must, when mixed to- gether, have contained in all 29.8 per cent, of phosphates in the state in which they exist in the bones or other materials em- ployed, of which 9.00 remain in their orig- inal insoluble form of combination, and the remaining 20.8 have been rendered soluble by the action of sulphuric acid. This, change the sulphuric acid brings about by converting them into a new chemical com- pound, differing from the original bone earth phosphate in composition, and in its solubility in water; so that it is wrong to write down soluble phosphates, as is done in the old system, for they no longer exist in the bones in that state, the name really ex- pressing the quantity of insoluble phosphates destined to be converted into a soluble com- pound by the action of the acid. This ■>• the acid effects l.y removing from the insoluble phosphates two-thirds of the lime they contain. Now, the 20 ! cent, of soluble phosphates consist of pev Phosphoric bum- acid,. 1 1 .20 Sand, I. 1 .'.-. 100.00 In comparing these two statements,' which appear at first sight so different, ii is Impor- tant to bear in mind that the) represent the same analysis -that is to say, the practical operations are one and the same; the dif- ference being merely a matter of ealeuli- ■ But when the sulphuric acid comes in con- tact with these phosphates, it combines with and removes two-thirds of their lime; consequently Phcrphatet Sabtraol lime (two-thlrdi »>f 11.20,) 7.46 i lime i:t.:<4 and there remains biphosphate of lime, con- sisting of 534 THE SOUTHERN PLANTER. [8. Phosphoric acid, .*. » 9.60 Lime 3.7 I 13.31 As the value of phosphates depends en- tirely on the phosphoric acid they contain, and is quite independent of the substance with^vhich it is in combination, of course the value of the soluble part is not affect- ed ; and it will be observed that in the new system, where biphosphate of lime appears in the analysis, a statement of the quantity of phosphates in their original insoluble state of bone phosphate from which they have been derived, is also given. The lime which has been separated from the phos- phates in the act of rendering them solu- ble, combines with sulphuric acid, and ap- pears in the analysis as sulphate of lime ; and, being added to that already existing in the manure, adds greatly to the propor- tion of that substance. A difference also exists in the quantity of water, due to the fact that sulphate of lime, in its natural state, contains what chemists call " water of combination;" and as it is a rule in *such analyses to state all the constituents, as far as possible, in their ordinary com- mercial forms, the requisite quantity of water is deducted from that appearing in the old system of analysis, to supply its re- quirements. The difference between the two modes of expressing the analysis of a superphosphate, when looked at in a broad point of view, consists in this, — that the old method gives the materials which, are used to make it, at the moment of mixture before the chemi- cal change has commenced, but distinguish- ing under a separate head the quantity of phosphates about to become soluble, and the quantity of sulphuric acid destined to pro- duce that change; while the new system represents matters as they actually exist in the manure when it reaches the farmer. It is scarcely necessary to observe that the lat- ter must be the more correct course, and more consistent with the principles usually- adopted by chemists. In estimating the value of superphos- phates stated according to the new method, it is important to bear in mind the distinc- tion between biphoepate of lime, and solu- ble phosphates — the former being worth more than half as much again as the latter. Latterly I have been accustomed to assume £30 per ton as the value of soluble phos- phates, and £47 for that of biphosp* lime, in calculating the values of these nures. Of course those proportions , liable to vary with the state of the marke* but they must always bear that ratio to one another. The analysis of a superphosphate is one of the most troublesome and complicated of those which we are commonly called on to make, and requires a variety of precau- tions, to insure accuracy, which are little understood by those chemists who have not directed their special attention to it. The method most commonly employed of de- termining the biphosphate of lime, which consists in adding a quantity of chloride of calcium to the solution in water, is espe- cially fallacious, and causes that substance to be overrated by from one to three per cent., and consequently exaggerating the value of the manure from 9s. to £1, 7s. per ton. The farmer is peculiarly interest- ed in this point, and it is one which neces- sarily entails considerable difficulty, as nothing appears on the face of the analysis itself to indicate the method in which the phosphates have been determined; and it is the more important, because a certain class of dealers, who cannot be called fraudulent, but who are not unnaturally anxious to make their wares appear to the best ad- vantage, find out those chemists who, by adopting the less accurate mode of experi- ment, obtain a higher result than others, and prefer their analysis; and it concerns such chemists also, because they may thus lend themselves to an over-estimate of the value of the manure they analyse. It is much to be desired that some sim- ple rules should be laid down to enable far- mers to judge of the accuracy of an analy- sis, but unfortunately nothing short of a knowledge of chemistry will enable them to do this in all cases. The necessity which exists for this was brought very prominently under my notice some time since, by an analysis of a super- phosphate emanating from a chemist of 1 some popular repute, and stated according to the old method, which gave eighteen per cent, of soluble phosphates, and only one and a half of sulphuric acid; while it is well known that this quantity of phosphates can not be made soluble by less than nine or ten per cent, of arid ; indicating, of course, that the analysis must be erroneous, as ac- tually turned out to be the case on rcpeti- J 859.] THE SOUTHERN PLANTER. 535 tion, when only sonic fourteen per cent, of soluble phosphates were found in it. Un- fortunately it is not always so easy to detect errors as it was in this case, and it cannot be doubted that the farmer is often misled by inaccurate and incomplete analyses. NOTE ON CONCENTRATED CATTLE-FOODS. I had prepared some month since a short notice regarding the nature of some of the substances now so extensively advertised as foods for cattle, which circumstances pre- vented appearing at the time it was written. Since then, Mr. Lawes has published in the Journal of the Royal Agricultural Society of England, a paper on the same subject, in which he expresses opinions completely concordant with my own, and has rendered my observations unnecessary. But as there are probably many readers of the Transac- tions into whose hands Mr. Lawes's paper may not fall, it may be of some use to put on record analyses of such foods, mere- ly for the sake of showing how little they merit the encomiums bestowed on them, or the price at which they are advertised. i. ii. Water, 14.38 12.65 Oil, 7.05 4.00 Albuminous compounds, .... 10.00 7.94 Gum, sugar, &c, 54.37 ) ro „ ibre, 7.61 $ Ash, 6.59 5.60 100.00 100.00 Nitrogen, 1.60 1.27 These substances are made up of a vari- ety of different kinds of ordinary food, among which Indian corn and bean meal appear to be the principal, mixed with a small quantity of some aromatic seed (in one case apparently caraway seed) for the pur- pose of giving the mixture an attractive flavour. The exact nature of the latter substance cannot be determined without a long and elaborate examination, which, un- der the circumstances, it did not appear ne- cessary to undertake ; for the results, so far as they go, are sufficiently conclusive as to the value of the articles. It is obvi- ous that they are cattle-foods of the most ordinary description, of comparatively low value, and not for a moment to be com- pared with the ordinary cereals, beans, or oil-cake. And yet No. 2 is offered for sale at £42 per ton, being at the rate of 4]d. per lb., when the meat it is to produce is sold for (id. The materials of which these foods are made, cannot, when reckoned at the very highest rates, be worth more than from £7 to £10 per ton ; so that the far- mer who purchases is made to give an un- reasonable and unfair price, which he ought not to pay, even if the. food fulfilled the promises of the sellers. That the traffic in these articles must be carried on very extensively cannot be doubted ; and it is a matter of the very greatest regret that far- mers should give countenance to it by tes- timonials, of which a long list is to be found appended to the advertisements. So strong is my opinion on this point, that I have ab- solutely refused to make analyses of these foods for their makers, lest the results should be used in any way to lead farmers into the belief that I am favourable to them. It is worthy of notice that all foods of this description have a small quantity of an aromatic substance mixed with them, which may serve the part of a condiment, and in- duce the animals fed upon them to consume a larger quantity of their ordinary food, and, by promoting digestion, cause the an- imal to fatten more rapidly than it other- wise would. ' But on this point we had no information; and it would be of interest to have a few experiments made on the ef- fect of such substances mixed in small pro- portion with the food of animals. But even supposing a favourable result to be ob- tained from such substances, it would not in any way invalidate the remarks now made, Or form an argument for the farmer's paying £40 per ton for what is worth £7 or £8. ON SOME NEW VARIETIES OF GUANO. During the first ten or twelve years af- ter the use of guano became common in this country, the supply equalled, if it did not exceed, the demand, and the farmer had the opportunity of choosing between Peruvian and some other varieties — such as Ichaboe and Saldanha Bay — which, though inferior, were good, servicable guanos, and in some soils gave as good or even a better result than the more expensive kind. The deposits of the latter, which appear not to have been large, were exhausted very rap- idly, and their place has since then been very imperfectly supplied ; for notwithstand- ing an active search in all parts of the world, and the discovery of numerous de- 536 THE SOUTHERN PLANTER. [Septemi of the inferior guanos which have the British Islands within the last posits, some of them of very considerable extent, the quality has generally proved very inferior; and as yet, none comparable to Peruvian, and very little which will bear comparison even with Said an ha Bay, has been discovered. The importations of new and inferior guanos have nevertheless been very large, and we shall certainly be very greatly within the mark if, excluding all the better kinds, we estimate the quantity reached five years, at a hundred thousand tons. Much of this is almost absolutely worthless ; but, taking a general average, their value, as in- dicated by many analyses made in my la- boratory, does not exceed £3 or £4 per ton. The cost of importing a guano, including expenses at the place of loading, freight, and charges in this country, certainly can- not fall short of £5 or £6 per ton ; and when profit to the importer and retailer is added, the cost to the farmer, at the very lowest possible estimate, must exceed £7 per ton. If these calculations be correct — and they are undoubtedly all below the truth — either the importers of guano or the farmers must, during these five years, have incurred a loss of from £300,000 to £400,000. It is a question of considera- ble interest to determine which of these two parties has been the loser ; and it re- quires but little consideration to see that, though the importers may not have been scatheless, the main bulk of the loss must have fallen on the farmers. It is well known to all persons acquainted with com- mercial matters, that, though not very sale- able, these guanos are eventually got rid of. Some of t£em are used for adulterating Peruvian guano, but the bulk reaches the farmer directly. Now, it is only necessary for the farmer to ask himself whether he has ever bought a guano at £3 per ton, or seen one in the market at that price, to en- able him to draw his own conclusions ; and he may rest assured, that if, during the last five years, he has bought a guano at £7 or £8 per ton, without seeing or understanding the analysis, the chances are that he hasj paid for it nearly double its real value. The cure of this, no doubt, is in the: hands of the farmer himself, if he chooses : to make use of it ; but there is so much inertness and indifference, that things can j only be made right by the discovery of large supplies of guanos of better quality' than those recently discovered; and th cannot be done uutil importers employ per sons of skill and experience in the search. At present everything is intrusted to the ship captains, who judge of the quality of the guano by all sorts of rude and insuffi- cient tests. Meanwhile an increased sup- ply of really good guanos of uniform com- position, is a matter of the highest moment, and I have always looked, upon it as one of my most important duties to watch for, and bring under the notice of agriculturists, guanos likely to prove useful, or which are of manifestly inferior quality. On the present occasion, I have the sat- isfaction of directing attention to a new guano, which seems likely to be a very im- portant boon to the farmer. It is met with on a small island in the Pacific, apparently of the coral formation. It has not yet been imported, but samples have arrived which are of a very promising kind. Two, which have been analysed, were found to con- tain — i. ii. Water, 4.60 4.60 Organic matter and ammonia- eal salts, 16.85 16.38 Phosphates. 71.40 69.90 Carbonate of lime, 3.15 7.90 Alkaline salts, 3.90 1.07 Sand, 0.L0 0.15 100.00 100.00 Ammonia, 1.32 1.26 These samples are both very dry, and may possibly have lost some moisture du- ring their transport to this country; but, making due allowance for this, it is obvious that this is a very excellent specimen of the phosphatic guano — of a kind which has been little seen of late years. It may be best compared to Saldanha Bay, but is su- perior to it in the quantity of phosphates, and if of uniform quality, will undoubtedly come largely into use. It is stated that the island contains upwards of 5,000,000 tons of guano, apparently of very uniform qual- ity. The shore is also covered with coral sand, containing a considerable quantity of phosphates, but not sufficient to render its importation profitable. Two samples have been examined for phosphates, which show- ed the following per-centages : No. 1 13.65 No. 2, 18 07 1859.] THE SOUTHERN PLANTER 537 The remainder of their constituents were not determined, but they consisted chiefly of carbonate of lime. I have not been able to learn whether this guano is likely to be imported in* sufficient time for the next turnip crop, but its arrival will be looked forward to with interest. A very remarkable guano has recently been imported from the west coast of South America, under the name of Valparaiso guano. It consists of a mixture of a pow- der, with large lumps of an exceedingly hard reddish brown substance, which re- quire a pretty smart blow with a hammer to break them. A fair sample was found to contain : Water, 7.85 Organic matter and amnmniacal salts, .. 14.70 Phosphates 20.07 Sulphate of lime, . . 5.56 Alkaline salts, consisting principally of common salt, 47. GO Sand, 4.17 100.00 Ammonia, 2.21 Phosphoric acid in the alkaline } salts, equal to 6.42 phosphate of > 2.94 lime, ) The hard lumps, which appeared like stones, were found to have a composition differing but little from the foregoing; they contained : Water, 5.25 Organic matter and ammoniacal salts,. . 13.50 Phosphates. 16.30 Sulphate of lime, 3.26 Common salt, 54.26 Other alkaline salts, 4.28 Sand, 3.15 100.00 Ammonia, 1 .77 Phosphoric acid in the alkaline salts. . . 0.9$ These lumps must be looked upon as a mix- ture of rock salt and guano, and it is impos- sible to avoid speculating as to how it could be deposited. The lumps were quite as hard as the ordinary rock salt; and it is stated that the deposit is of considerable ex- tent and depth. It is scarcely necessary to observe that it is not likely to prove of much use to the farmer. Another new guano, beaming some re semblance to Ichaboe, has recently been im- ported ; but from what locality I did not learn. It contains : Water, 29.31 Organic matter and ammoniacal salts Phosphates 22.15 Carbonate of lime 0.43 Alkaline salts 9.85 Sand, 2.02 Ammonia Phosphoric acid in the alkaline salts, equal to 2.2-1 phosphate of lime, ..... . 100.00 C.45 1.03 The analysis was made after removal of about three per cent, of small pebbles; and this, along with the presence of roots, seemed to show that the deposit was proba- bly a superficial one ; or, at all events, that the cargo had been taken from the surface. At the present time, considerable impor- tations are being made of a mineral phos- phate, under the name of Sombrero Island guano, which, though not directly interest- ing to the farmer, as it will probably not. be advantageously applicable to the land in its natural state, is a very valuable mate- rial for the manufacture of superphosphate. The greater part of the island of Som- brero is said to be composed of this sub- stance, which forms a bed of some forty feet in thickness. It is found in the form of a soft stone, varying from buff to pink- ish in colour. It is easily pulverized, and its powder greatly resembles bath-brick in appearance. A sample examined in the laboratory contained : Water, 8.96 Phosprfate of lime 37.71 Phosphates of alumina and iron,. . . . , . 44.21 Phosphate of magnesia, 4.20 Sulphate of lime^ 0.86 Carhonate of lime, 3.3G" Solnble silica, 0.30 Sand, 0.40 Total phosphoric acid Equivalent to phosphate of lime.. 100.00 36.36 79.36 Another sample of the same substance con- tained : Phosphates, 77.90 A considerable quantity of the phospho- ric acid in this substance is in combination with alumina and iron; but this cannot af- fect its agricultural use. As a material for the manufacture of superphosphate, it is of much value, and, being sold at £5, 10s. per ton, it is materially cheaper than bone-ash, 538 THE SOUTHERN PLANTER. [Septembei which, if containing 70 of phosphates, would be sold for about £7, 10s. per ton. It is necessary to guard against confound- ing the true Sombrero Island guano with another substance sold under the same name, and which contains — Water, 3.85 Organic matter 11.60 Phosphoric acid, 26.23 Oxide of iron and alumina,. ... 28.76 Lime, 18.12 Carbonate of lime, • 2.27 Alkaline salts, 6.57 Sand, 2.60 100.00 Ammonia, 0.22 In this instance the phosphoric acid is equivalent to more than 57.70 of phosphate of lime, and the whole characters of the substance are quite distinct from those of Sombrero guano. It is much darker in colour, and resembles an ordinary guano. From some circumstances which have come to my knowledge, there is reason to suspect that it really comes from Avis Island, which is not far distant from Sombrero Island, and is known to contain a phosphorite similar, but inferior, to that from the latter locality. NOTE ON A PARTICULAR KIND OF SUL- PHATE OP AMMONIA. The sulphate of ammonia hitherto met with in commerce, has been on the whole re- markable for its purity, and has usually, even when dark-coloured, contained about 95 per cent of the salt, and from 24*to 25 per cent of ammonia. Within the last few months, however, a kind has been .intro- duced which looks very well — is pale col- oured — sometimes is almost quite white — and well crystallized, but which, neverthe- less, is considerably inferior to many sam- ples which are less satisfactory to the eye. It varies considerably in composition, and sometimes contains several per cent of mu- riate of ammonia. The following are analy- ses of it : I. II. III. IV. Water, 7.93 9.05 6.20 5.77 Sulphate of ammonia, 71.78 79.63 84.25 85.21 Muriate of ammonia, 7.85 Fixed salts, 12.44 11.17 9.55 9.02 100.00 99.85 100.00 100.00 Ammonia, 20.98 20.55 2 1 .65 2 1 .94 These samples all contain a considerable quantity, both of water and fixed salts, anc are worth from 10 to 15 per cent less thai the best sulphate of ammonia. They hav< apparently been manufactured by somctiev process, for they all contain a small quantity of sulpho-cyanide of ammonium — a substance ] m iases8ing the property of striking a dark-red colour with iron salts, and which affords a convenient means of recognising sulphate of ammonia of this kind. It is probably prepared from the so-called ammonia refuse, or ammonia black of the gas works — a sub- stance got in one of the patent processes for purifying gas. This substance contains sul- pho-cyanide of ammonium, and a consider- able quantity of sulphate of ammonia, and has hitherto been sold at a very low price. I have recently been informed that a pro- cess has been contrived for extracting sul- phate of ammonia from it, t.nd L suspect that these samples have been so prepared. The farmer ought to be on his guard against this article, which he would, from its ap- pearance, take to be of excellent quality; and should take care to examine the analy- sis, and to observe that the price charged him corresponds with the per centage of sul- phate of ammonia. COMPOSITION OF TWO KINDS OF MANUFAC- TURING REFUSE WHICH MAY BE EM- PLOYED AS MANURES. Two kinds of refuse from manufactories have recently come under our notice in the laboratory, both of which may be advanta- geously employed as manures. The first is a refuse obtained by Teal's pa- tent for recovering the fat from waste-soap li- quors. This process, which is chiefly appli- cable to wool scourers' soap-waste, is con- ducted in the following manner : — The fluid, as obtained from the wool-scourers, is run into large tanks, where it is heated along with sulphuric acid, which causes the fat to separate from the soap and rise to the surface, carrying with it all the impurities removed from the wool. The semi-solid product, after separation from the water, is subjected to pressure in powerful Bramah presses, when the oil or grease is expressed, and a dark brown cake — still containing some oil along with small quantities of woollen fibre and other impurities — is left. This substance consti- tutes the refuse in question. Its composi- tion is — L859.] THE SOUTHERN PLANTER. 539 Water 9»14 Organic matter, 70.65 Phosphates . . 1 ."{7 Alkaline salts, 2.96 Sand* 15.88 100. 1)1) Ammonia, 1.15 Calculating according to the principle usually adopted for valuing manures, this substance is worth rather mure than £1 per ton. But it must be distinctly understood that this is its value on the farm and not at the place of manufacture, where it ought to be sold at from 10s. to 15s. per ton. The reason for this will be at once apparent, if the cost of carriage be taken into account. If a ton of Peruvian guano cost £13, and the expense of cartage be 5s., then the to- tal cost of that manure on the farm will be £13, 5s. per ton; but to produce the same manurial effect with this refuse, it would be necessary to employ thirteen tons; and if £1 were paid for it, the cost of the whole would then stand thus : Thirteen tons at £1,. . £13 Carriage, at 5s. per ton, 3 5 Total cost, £16 5 Giving a difference of £3, which would have to be deducted from the price of the thirteen tons, to make them equal in cost to guano. If we add that this substance would probably not act so rapidly as guano, we re- quire to make a further deduction, because, all other things being alike, the manure which makes its return most rapidly is the most valuable. The other substance is glue-makers' re- fuse, of which the composition is — Water, 41.05 Organic matter, 35.90 Phosphates, . 1.90 Carbonate of lime, is. 81 Sand, 2.34 100.00 Ammonia, 2.60 The value of this substance is about £1, 16s. per ton, subject, of course, to a certain deduction for the cost of carriage. It has been long employed as a manure in the neighborhood of tan and glue-works, and with marked success. It acts rapidly, being generally in a more or less putrid state, and may be usefully employed on all kinds of crops. While mentioning these substances, it may be will to refer to an article sold under the name of wool-manure, beeause that title is Calculated to mislead the purchaser. Sev- eral samples of the manure in question were analysed in the course of last season, and the subjoined will serve as a specimen of all the others : Water, 14.92 Organic matter, 12.76 Soluble phosphates, 1.26 Insoluble phosphates, Sulphate of lime, 24.47 Sulphuric acid, traces Alkaline salts, Sand, 18.63 100.00 Ammonia, 1.36 It is obvious that the name wool-manure by no means describes this substance, which is neither more nor less than an inferior su- perphosphate. It may have been made from coprolities and the organic matter obtained by mixing it with wool-refuse; but there were no indications by which the accuracy of this opinion could be supported or re- futed. The value of the manure does not exceed £3 per ton. From Jackson's Agriculture and Dairy Husbandry Culture of Wheat. Wheat is the most important of all the grains. The variety most profitable to be produced must depend upon the nature of the soil, as land which has produced an in- different crop of one may yield an abundant crop of another kind, and land is frequently found to yield better crops if the varieties be alternately changed. It has been ob- served, that a mixture of grain produces the heaviest crops, and that mixed flour makes the best bread. The richer description of clays and strong loams are the best adapted for the produc- tion of wheat: but if properly cultivated and well manured, any variety of these two soils will produce excellent crops of this grain. Good wheat land ought always to possess a large quantity of clay and little sand ; for although light soils may be made to produce good crops, yet *hc strong clay lands in general yield the heaviest grain. Sandy soils, being deficient in firmness, do not afford sufficient support to the roots of plants, such as wheat, which do not sink far into the soil. There are light soils, however, made from decomposed granite, felspar, or 540 THE SOUTHERN PLANTER. [September clay-stone, compounded with vegetable mat- ter, which produce excellent wheat. These soils abound in the neighbourhood of Edin- burgh, and in Fifeshire, and the wheat from them is frequently superior to any in the Edinburgh market. The produce of these soils, however, is much hurt by dry weather. " Colonel le Couteur, of Jersey, has made the culture of the best varieties of wheat his particular study for several years, and has arrived at the following conclusion, by actual and careful experiment, namely, 'that one ear of a superior variety, sown grain by grain, and suffered to tiller apart, produced 4 lbs. 4 ounces of wheat, whereas another ear of an inferior sort, treated in the same manner, produced only 1 lb. 10 ounces. This proves that it is of paramount impor- tance to select the most productive and farinaceous sorts for seed ; it being obvious that a farmer who would have sown his whole crop with the last variety, would have probably been ruined ; whereas, the superior variety would have enabled him to farm with profit/ It is hardly possible to enter a field of wheat nearly ripe, without observ- ing that the ears of some of the plants are much superior to the generality of those growing around. Several new and excellent sorts have been obtained, by intelligent far- mers making a selection of these remarka- bly superior ears; saving and growing them apart until the pure stock was increased to serve themselves, and, in time, their im- mediate neighbourhood. By such means, the Hardcastle, the hedge-wheat, Hunter's, Heckling's, &c, have been originated, and with manifest advantage to the sower, so long as the sorts were kept pure, and atten- tion being paid to giving the sorts those most suitable soils which experience had pointed out. This mode of obtaining im- proved varieties of corn, so strenuously ad- vocated by Colonel le Couteur, has been practised but by few farmers — a general idea prevailing among them that it is the richness of the land and judicious culture which gives quality, and consequently value, to the sample. In this they are partly right: because, though very fine wheat, in a miller's estimation, may be grown on poor land, it is impossible to grow a profitable crop — a great bulk of both straw and grain answering the fanner's purpose better than the high quality of the latter. But Colonel le Couteur seems fully convinced that both these objects, that is, quantity and quality, may be obtained at the same time, upon ordinary wheat land; and this is a result that should always be kept in view by agri- culturists. Adapting the sort to the sort is one means for securing success. The red and yellow wheats answer better on the hea- viest clayey loams than the white varieties, which are delicate, and more suitable for lands of a lighter description."* Sir George Mackenzie of Coul has found by experi- ment that the variety of wheat, cultivated so successfully by Colonel le Couteur, thrives well in Ross-shire, and in that northern county actually yields a heavier produce than in Jersey. This, however, we must ascribe to Sir George's skilful mode of farming more than to either soil or climate. The late Mr. Brown, of Markle, an expe- rienced agriculturist, was of opinion that profitable crops of wheat might be produced every second year on rich clays and loams, if well cultivated and situated in a good climate. Land, however, must be highly manured and judiciously fallowed, to bear such frequent repetitions of wheat. " The season for sowing wheat is necessa- rily regulated by the state of the land, as well as of the season, on which account it is not always in the farmer's power to choose the moment he would prefer. After fallow, as the season allows, it may be sown from the end of August to the middle of Novem- ber. On wet clays, it is proper to sow as- early as possible, as such soils, when tho- roughly drenched with moisture in autumn, are seldom in a proper state for harrowing the succeeding spring. In the opinions of many experienced husbandmen, the best season for sowing wheat, whether on fallow, rag-fallow, or ploughed clover stubble, is from the beginning of September to the 20th of October, but this must depend upon the state of the soil and weather. In East Lothian, on dry, gravelly loams, in good condition, after a clover crop, and well pre- pared, wheat has been known to succeed best when sown in November. After drilled beans, whenever the season will admit of ploughing and harrowing, wheat may be sown from the middle or end of September to the middle of November ; after this sea- son, the sowing of wheat ought not to be hazarded till the spring quarter returns. After turnips, when the crop is consumed or fed off, and the ground can be properly * Young Farmer's Manual, by J. Main, 1839. 1859.] THE SOUTHERN PLANTER 541 ploughed, wheat may be sown any time be- twixt the 1st of February and the middle of March, and it is customary to plough and sow the land in successive portions as fast as the turnips are consumed. It is only on turnip soil of a good quality, verging to- wards loam, and in high condition, that winter wheat, sown in spring, can be culti- vated with success. When circumstances are favourable, however, it will generally happen that such lands, when wheat is not too often repeated, will nearly produce as many bushels of wheat as of barley. The wheat crops, therefore, on an average of seasons, will exceed the value of the barley crop considerably; hence its culture is an object which ought not to be neglected."* Wheat, as will afterwards be more par- ticularly mentioned, is liable to certain dis- eases, as, for example, smut, mildew r or rust, &c. With the view of preserving the grain from these most injurious disorders, it is customary to prepare the seed by steeping or pickling it in a kind of saline brine, or diluted urine. The value of this process may be learned from the following experi- ments, as stated in various reports before us. Mr. Bailey, of Chellingham, tried experi- ments on seed in which were a few balls of smut. One-third of the seed was steeped in urine, and limed ; one-third steeped in urine, dried, and not limed ; and the other third sown without steeping or liming. The result was, that the seed which had been pickled and limed, and that which was pickled and not limed, was almost free of smut, while that which was sown without undergoing this process was much diseased. The following experiments were made at Lord Chesterfield's farm of Bradly-Hall, in Derbyshire: The first was on a peck of very smutty wheat, one-half which was sown in the state it was bought, and the other washed in three waters, steeped two hours in brine strong enough to float an egg, and then limed. The result was, that two-thirds of the wheat grown from the unwashed seed was smutty, while that produced by the steeped and limed seed had not a single ear of smut. The second experiment was made upon some very fine wheat, perfectly free from smut. A quart of this was washed in three waters, to make it perfectly clean ; it w T as then put for two days into a bag in which was some black dust of smutty grain, * General Report of Scotland. and the result was, that a large portion of wheat thus sown was smutty, while out of twenty acres sown with the same grain, not inoculated, not one smutty ear was found. Mr. Taylor, junior, of Ditchingham, near Bungary, rubbed a number of ears of wheat with the powder of smut, having moistened them to make the powder adhere ; one-half of these were washed, wetted with chamber lye, and limed. A similar quantity of dry wheat was then procured, the whole being dibbled, each parcel by itself. The produce of the infected wheat was three-fourths smut; the same infected wheat, steeped and limed, was perfectly sound. The valuable results arising from steeping wheat seed need not be further illustrated, and we shall now proceed to describe the process. Steeping or pickling is performed, as al- ready mentioned, after the seed has been washed, by allowing it to lie for a time amongst stale urine, diluted with water, or salt brine, of sufficient strength to float an egg. The seed is put into tubs, containing as much liquid as will cover the grain a few inches, and allow it to be well stirred, so as to bring all the light grains to the surface, which are skimmed off as long as they con- tinue to rise. Another way is to put the seed into baskets, which are immersed in the water, are easily taken out, and can be conveniently placed over an empty tub to drain. The seed is left for three or four hours in the chamber lye, or full six hours in the pickle, after which the liquor is drawn off", and the wheat spread thinly on the floor of the granary, where it is well sprinkled over with quick-lime slaked in the liquid. About half a peck of lime is suffi- cient for a bushel of wheat, and it should be well stirred, so that every grain may get a portion. If the seed is to be drilled, it should be passed through a coarse sieve after being limed, which will facilitate its progress through the machine. The grain will thus be quickly dried ; and it should not lie more than six hours in the heap, then be spread out and used the following day. Some caution should be used in having the lime properly slaked, for if this is not done, too great a heat may be raised, which will destroy the vegetative principle. Doubts have been expressed of the efficacy of lime, and a solution of copperas is used on the Continent instead. Dry powdered lime would certainly have no effect, but when 54: THE SOUTHERN PLANTER. [September newly slaked it is very efficacious, as has been proved from experiment. It was found that a steep of lime-water alone, in which wheat was immersed for four and twenty hours, proved a powerful preventive of dis- . while the good effects of unmixed urine were very inconsiderable. Of the two kinds of steep mentioned, urine is thought the most efficient, and it should be used neither too fresh nor too stale, as in the first state it is ineffectual, and in the second, injurious. The seed should be sown as soon as dry, for if allowed to lie in sacks or heaps beyond a day or two, the lime may be very hurtful. Another steep, which is recommended by Sir John Sinclair, and is much used in Flanders, France, and Switzerland, is a weak solution of the sulphate of copper, or blue vitriol. The modes of using it are as follow: Into eight quarts of boiling water put one pound of blue vitriol, and while quite hot, three bushels of wheat are wetted with five quarts of the liquid ; in three hours the re- maining three quarts are added, and the wheat is suffered to remain three hours longer in the solution. The whole should be stirred three or four times during the six hours, and the light grains skimmed off. After the wheat is drained, slaked lime is thrown on it to facilitate the drying. Ano- ther way of using it is, to dissolve five pounds of the sulphate of copper in hot water, and add as much cold water to this as will cover three bushels of wheat. The wheat is allowed to remain five or six hours, or even longer, in the liquid. After two or three bags, of three bushels each, have passed through the liquid, one pound more of the sulphate for each bag should be added ; and after twelve bags or so have passed through, new liquid will be required. Various other preparations of vitriol, ni- tre, sulphur and arsenic have been tried, in some instances with considerable benefit; and a solution of one pound of arsenic, in thirty gallons of water, has been recom- mended as a destructive of insects and field mice. From what has been stated, the im- portance of this operation will be at once apparent, and its practice ought never to be neglected. "But unless other means be taken to guard against the infection, the farmer can never be secure against the communication of the contagion, even after all these operations have been performed. The contagious smut powder adheres to sacks and barns with which it has been in contact; it attaches itself to the straw and chaff, and is thus probably in many instances carried from the barn and stable doors, when the dung is taken green to the fields, without being properly turned and fer- mented. The infection may indeed be car- ried by the wind from other fields, and in va- rious ways, which cannot be guarded against. But no person, who is duly sensible that the disease may be checked, if not wholly eradi- cated, by careful attention, should hesitate to employ all those means of prevention which may be in his power. The barn in which corn has been either stored or thrashed, should therefore be thoroughly aired, and every corner swept; if also the walls of the interior were well washed with strong lime-water, the precaution would not be improper, and sacks which have held the infected grain should be immersed in a similar solution."* If the seed is not put in the ground until the spring months, the kind sown should either be of the true spring sort, or taken from wheat known to have been sown in the spring of the preceding year. Wheat is generally sown broadcast, but it is now be- coming common to sow it with a machine. By this it is sown in a breadth of eighteen feet, as fast as a horse can walk, being about four acres an hour. The machine holds as much seed at a time as will go over an acre, and requires one man and one woman to manage it, eight horses following to harrow in the seed. Drilling is much practised on soils of a light character, especially if the land be in- fested with annual weeds. When sown in spring, the drill allows the free operation of hand-hoeing and weeding, which are of considerable advantage. It occupies more time than broad-cast sowing, and is princi- pally practised on light soils. A third pro- cess of sowing is by what is termed ribbing, formerly explained. The seed, in practising this method, is scattered by the hand, and falling for the most part in the furrows be- tween the ribs, it has all the appearance of having been drilled, the ribs being then harrowed across. This process and drilling have the double advantage of allowing the operation of weeding, and also the free cir- culation of air between the plants, which is of great importance when the grain is ripen-. * British Husbandry. 1859.] THE SOUTHERN PLANTER 543 ing. Dibbling in the .seed is a process prac- tised in some parte of Norfolk, but it re- quires too much labour ever to become general. It is performed by one man dib- bling, and three or more children dropping in the grains; and the seed is harrowed in by a bush harrow. It saves seed greatly; and the grain produced is more equal throughout a field than by the broadcast method. "The quantity of seed necessary depends both on the time of sowing and the state of the land — land sown early requiring less than the same land when sown in winter or spring, and poor land being always allowed more seed than rich. The quantity accord- ingly varies from two bushels or less to three, and sometimes even to four bushels per im- perial acre. Winter wdieat, when sown in spring, ought always to have a liberal allow- ance, as the plants have not time to tiller much without unduly retarding their matu- ration."* The depth at which the seed is deposited in the soil is not of material consequence ; but it should always be sufficiently covered to protect it from the depredations of- birds. This is proved by the vigorous growth of shaken wheat and all other grains, although not all covered by the soil. When broad-cast sowing is practised, har- rowing, rolling and hand-hoeing will be the principal after-culture necessary. These operations are useful to loosen the ground when grass seeds are sown in winter wheat, and at the proper season are beneficial to the wheat itself. On strong clay soils they a»e sometimes performed even when grass is not sown, especially if the winter has been wet, or the crop appear tnin. The opera- tion should be done when the crop begins to vegetate; and great attention is necessary to this, as, if the plants are in an inactive state, they may be rotted by the work, and if too far advanced, their growth may be checked. " Rolling in spring ought never to be omitted on dry porous soils, which are fre- quently left in so loose a state by the winter frosts, that the roots quit the soil and perish. If the land be rough and cloddy, the roller has a still more beneficial effect than the harrow in pulverizing the inert masses and extending the pasture of the plants. Hand- weeding, so far as to cut down thistles and Encyclopaedia Britannica. article Agriculture. Other long weeds, is never neglected by careful fiirniers, but the previous culture ought to leave as little as possible of this work to be done when the crop is growing. Annual weeds, which ;irc the most trouble- some, oan only be effectually destroyed by hand-hoeing; and to admit of this, the crop ought to he made to rise in rows, by being sown either by a drill machine or on ribs. Where grass seeds ;ire to be sown on dialled wheat, the hand-hoeing assists in covering them."* Feeding sheep on young wheat is some- times practised in England, when the shoots are too luxuriant in the early part of spring, in order to check the growth of the outer blades. The practice, however, is objected to, as the sheep will generally prefer the tender blade in the heart of the plant, which may hurt its after-growth. In Scot- land this is seldom or never practised, as the consequences are thought too dangerous in a cold, uncertain climate. The almost universal practice is to cut wheat before it is dead ripe, as at this stage the grain is apt to drop from the ear, and the ear itself to break off, which causes con- siderable loss of grain. The best time for cutting this and all other grains is when no juice can be expressed from the straw im- mediately below the ear; the grain will then be comparatively clean-skinned and fine, and both grain and straw more valuable than if allowed to get too ripe. When too ripe, the grain assumes a dusky color, which is much against its appearance. "The flour of wheat which is cut before it is quite ripe, is whiter than that which is allowed to come to maturity, and bears a higher price in the markets. The grain which is intended for the miller should therefore be reaped before it has reached its perfect growth. The wheat is ground into meal of various degrees of fineness, and a bushel of 60 lbs. weight generally yields, when dressed, about the following quanti- ties: — Fine flour, 2.")! lbs.; household flour, 22} lbs.; pollards, (shorts,) 8 lbs.; bran, 3 A bushel of wheat, therefore, averages 48 lbs. of both kinds of flour of that sort called seconds, which is alone used for mak- ing bread through the greater part of Fng- land; and a sack of marketable flour must by law weigh 280 lbs. The bakers admit they can make two or three quartern loaves Encyclopaedia Britannica, article Agriculture. 544 THE SOUTHERN PLANTER. [September more than the usual quantity from one sack of flour when it is the genuine produce of good wheat. It was found, upon a compara- tive trial of English and Scotch wheat, of apparently equal quality, that there was a difference in favour of the English of no less than 13 lbs. of bread upon 2$ cwts. (280 lbs.) of flour. As to the greater quantity of bread produced by an equal weight of English flour, the cause appears to be, that the English flour is more absorb- ent than the Scotch, and consequently re- quires more water to bring the dough to the same consistency for being baked."* Wheat is almost universally cut with the 6ickle, (lately with the reaping machine,) and tied up in sheaves, which are often made of single lengths of the straw, and the smaller the sheaves the easier they are dried. The sheaves are set up in stooks of twelve or fourteen, according to the length of the straw, and are set in rows, the top of each touching, with an opening at the bot torn to admit the free passage of the wind From the strength of the straw, wheat re mains opener in the sheaves than any other grain, and consequently wins and dries sooner. The best criterion for judging of the fitness of grain to be carried home is to examine the knots or joints of the straw, and if these be perfectly dead and free from juice, the crop may be then gathered with safety, even although it be a little wet with rain. If the crop, or part of it, is meant to be thrashed early, for seed or other purpose, it is necessary to allow it to remain longer on the field. When the straw is mixed with succulent weeds, or rank clover and grass, the grain must remain on the field till these are dried, or, from their wet nature, the crop will be apt to heat in the rick, and the pro- duce be injured. Ashes as a Manure. Facts in agriculture, though of seeming insignificance, are always interesting and valuable. It may scarcely seem necessary to urge upon farmers the value of wood ashes as a manure, or the advantages- of their application to the soil, as both leached and unleached ashes, within the last few years, have become better appreciated for their fertilizing properties — yet it is the province of the agricultural press to give "line upon line, and precept upon precept," * British Husbandry. ry I to bring forth "thoughts new and old" for the reasonable consideration of its readers. Ashes may be used with advantage to almost any class of crops, but especially as a dressing for grass, grain and Indian corn, though the immediate benefit of ashes is most perceptible on leguminous plants, such as clover, peas, beans, &c. Ashes, in some respects, act like lime; consequently on thin, poor soils, they should not be applied in large quantities, unless vegetable matter is added at the same time, as the effect is too stimulating and exhausting. They act like lime in having a tendency to give compact- ness to light sandy soils, and render heavy clay soils light and friable. They serve, too, to neutralize whatever superabundance of acids there may be in any soil. As a top-dressing to grass, ashes are very beneficial, as it roots out the moss, and pr motes the growth of white clover. Moss meadows and pastures may be renovated b applying ashes and plaster (gypsum). There are always natural grass seeds in every soil, lying ready for germination and growth as soon as the uanurial or feeding elements of the soil are ready for their development. On this principle it is, that a dressing of lime, or ashes and plaster, will bring into action seeds of white clover, where a white clover plant w T as never known to have ex- isted before. As an application to the corn crop, ashes have been found to be of much value — ap- plied as a hill dressing about the time of the first hoeing — enabling it to get a better start in the early part of the season, and thus preparing it better to withstand the drouth of mid-sum iner. They not only cause the plants to start vigorously, but en- able them to hold that vigor until the roots attain size and strength to seek, over a larger proportion of the soil, the elements needed. We have noticed a material differ- ence in the yield of corn-fields, dressed and undressed, which could only be attributed! to this fact. ' Some farmers practice mixing] salt with ashes as a top-dressing for corn, but whether beneficial or not we cannot say from experience; but the better way, we should think, would be to use the salt in the compost-heap, where, in small quantities, it might prove beneficial in promoting the de- composition of animal and vegetable sub- stances. It has been asserted that ashes at twenty- five cents a bushel are cheaper than phos- 1859.] THE SOUTHERN PLANTER. 545 phate of lime at six cents per pound. Seve- ral salts ai»e necessary for full growth and maturity of the wheat plant. In using the super- phosphate of lime, the farmer uses but one of the salts necessary for its perfec- tion; but in the use of ashes, he applies, besides the several salts of potash, more or less of other salts, no less valuable, accord- ing to the kind of timber from which the ashes were produced. Different woods have a very different proportion of mineral con- stituents — hence the value as manure is variable. Leached ashes produce nearly the same effect with unleached, but a larger quantity is generally required. There are soils in which much alkali exists; in such the solu- ble parts of ashes will be of little value; and the leached remains may be altogether superior, for few soils contain so much phos- phoric acid as not to be improved by its ad- dition as manure. They are of too valuable a character to be suffered to remain unem- ployed as they have been — remaining in large heaps on the sites of old asheries in many places in th"e country. We have not the least doubt that every farmer will find it more profitable to apply the ashes made on his premises to the soil, than to sell them to manufacturers at fifteen or even twenty cents per bushel. Farmers are beginning to feel more and mure that they must do something to enrich their farms. Let not this source of fertility be neglected, and let further experiments be made in its use. Rural American. Advice about Teeth. An eminent surgeon -dentist, residing in London, gives the following useful hints about the care of teeth. They are simple, timely, and deserve attention : in the first place, the teeth should be fairly used. By this I mean, not made to perform the duties of crackers for nuts, ex- perimented on to ascertain their strength, or, by ladies, to rival scissors in cutting thread; for, rest assured, in every ease, more particularly the last, the party having re- course to such practices, will surely some day rue them; the teeth, so unwittingly in- jured, being always to part company with their fellows. Those who indulge in such or similar habits, may truly be called the dentist's friends. Cleanliness is absolutely essential for the preservation of the teeth, and they should be well brushed at least morning and evening, that any feculence which may be attached to them, either du- ring sleep from the stomach, or by day from meals, may not. be allowed permanently to adhere, causing, firstly, discoloration, then tartar, and subsequently, if I may so express myself, undermining the constitution of one or more, as from their position they may be more or less liable to corrosion. In order that the teeth should look natural, that is, retain their natural color, a dentifrice, free from the smallest particle of acid, should be used at the matin hour, and the mouth rinsed with tepid water, for extremes of heat and cold are most highly prejudicial not only to their color, but also to their du- rability; and I know no method so simple of converting a really useful and ornamen- tal set into one of pain and subsequent ex- tinction, than the use of washing in either one or the other. The person who habit- uates himself or herself, to any extent, to hot soup, tea, or other drinks, assuredly rivals the friend to the dentist just named. Brushes for the teeth should be of medium substance of bristle, and those made on what is called the penetrating principle are best. I would also observe that children at any early age, should be instructed in the use of a tooth- brush, and taught the value and importance of the teeth, in order to inculcate habits of cleanliness, and a due appreciation oi" the ornaments of the mouth. A brush properly selected (not too hard) may be used by children of five years of age, every morn- ing; and by being part and parcel of the general ablution, and thus directing habitual attention to the teeth, a useful and cleanly habit will be engendered, which will proba- bly insure for them proper care through life. — < -e «o- »- Industry. Toil is the price of sleep and appetite, of health and enjoyment. The very necessity which overcomes our natural sloth, is a blessing. The world does not contain a brier or thorn that divine mercy con id have spared. We are happier with the sterility which we can overcome by industry, than we could be with the most spontaneous and unbounded profusion. The body and (he mind are improved by the toil that fatigues them; that toil is a thousand times rewarded by the pleasure it bestows. Its enjoyments are peculiar; no wealth can touch them. 546 THE SOUTHERN PLANTER [September Measure of Manhood. No impression of society is more false or fatal to true manhood, than that which measures a man's worth by the field of labor he occupies, so long as that labor is useful and honest — and no dishonest toil can be useful. The nobility of man in this coun- try does not depend on wealth, birth or title. Nor does it take color from the nature of his profession, but rather from the spirit which animates him — the spirit by which, with or against the smiles of temporal fortune, he shapes his career among his jellow-men. He is a truer man who turns chimney- sweeping to an honest, independent account, than he who, scorning the rough toils of the humble and needy, is willing to live an idler — however proudly caparisoned — upon the industry of others. Now and then we hear of " the most re- spectable classes," and find on examination that this respectability is credited to pecu- liar professions and labors. What could be more offensive to that spirit of republican- ism which discards the theory of "divine rights," and special nobilities of blood and caste? Yet this sentiment of distinction exists and increases amongst us. We see it in manifold displays of a pseudo-aristocracy, who, glorying in the possession of superior wealth, won, most likely, by the hard-handed industry and prudence of a former genera- tion, or by some successful speculation, look down with vulgar scorn upon men who eclipse them in all the attributes of man- hood. That man is base, who fails to re- member with pride a noble-minded or noble- acting ancestry, but baser is he who seeks to hide his own meanness or weakness under the mantle of reputable forefathers. The proudest coat of arms ever graven on a man's shield, or fitted to his shoulders, is the home- spun coat won by honest toil. Substract from the world's history the record of such toil, and the earth is stripped of its most substantial glories. The patent nobilities have done little more than to rust and cor- rupt the fruits of heroic labor. What matters it whether one carry the hod or the plumb-line — whether one mixes the mortar or handles the trowel — so long as each is essential to human welfare ? Not that we would have any man seek a lower grade of toil, if a higher be at his com- mand. What we hold is, that the shepherd and plowman are as noble in their place as is the Secretary of State in his. To the working-man — and he who toils not usefully is a drone among men, and an abomination in the sight of God — we have but a few words of advice. Heed not the false senti- ment that would deny you dignity or respec- tability, because your labor soils your hands and swarths your brow. Better have soiled hands and swarth brow, than the corrupt heart and vicious brain of the two extremes of society who prey on your labor — the vag- abonds of the gutter, shameless in their mendicity and crime, and the vaunted aris- tocracy, whose wealth hides their corruption from the public sight. Aim high with hon- est purpose, holding a true soul better than gold, and the approval of conscience sweeter than the world's flattery, and you will tri- umph even in the humblest vocation. Your daily labor shall not be the gauge of your manhood, for you will have over and above that, for self-communion and for society, a heart and brain which are not tied to, nor bound up in, the toil of your hands. [Southern Chronicle. Fever and Ague. There are some situations where fever and ague prevails every season, and this is the case in the vicinity of creeks and swamps in Long Island, not one mile from New York City. An acquaintance of ours, who has re- sided for several years on one of these creeks, never has had a single case of fever and ague in his family, while all his neighbors have been more or less affected with it every sea- son. He attributes his immunity from this troublesome disease to the use of a good fire in his house every chilly and damp night in Summer and Fall. When the Indians travel at night or early in the morning in swampy, regions, they cover their nose and mouth with some part of their garments to warm the air which they inhale, and this theysay prevents chills and fevers. — Scientific American. The grape crop around Cincinnati is said to be the largest ever grown and is estima- ted as worth one million of dollars. Contentment produces, in some measure, all those effects which the Alchemist usu- ally ascribes to what he calls the Philoso- pher's Stone; and if it does not bring Riches, it does the same thing by banishing the desire for them. — Addi on. 1859.] THE SOUTHERN PLANTER. 547 SEVENTH ANNUAL EXHIBITION Dl TH1 VA. STATE AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY, TO BE HELD AT PETERSBURG ON THE 1st, 2d, 3d and 4th of November, 1859. SCHEDULE OF PREMIUMS. BRANCH I. Premiums for E after iments. Class 1st. 1 to 5. For each of five best ex- periments on any important and doubtful or disputed question or questions of practical Agriculture ; each experiment covering not less than four acres of laud and includ- ing a series of not less than eight different matters of trial, observation, measurement, correct estimate, or com- parison of results; and, which more- over, by its proper direction, accura- cy of performance, and the careful and full report of procedure and re- sults thereof, shall serve to furnish valuable instruction for practice on the subject investigated, whether two or more experiments shall be on the same subject, or each, on a dif- ferent one, a premium of $100 Class 2d, G to 15. For each of ten other next best experiments, of similar character and merit with the above described, but falling short of the full requisitions for the foregoing, a premium of 25 Class 3?'d. 16 to 35. For each of twenty other accurate and instructive expe- riments, or series of experiments on one general subject, of merit and useful value, a premium of premiums, will be decided in reference to the Dearest approximation to the following conditions : 1st. The comparative extent and com- pleteness of the processes of experiment, and the apparent accuracy of the proce- dure. 2nd. The clearness of the report. 3rd. The utility of the information so conveyed. Exact measurements of results always will add much value to reports of experi- ments, and should not be omitted when- ever the case may require such exactness. But in many other cases, estimates of com- parative results, or products, by the eye, may serve, if sufficient for the case and for reaching correct conclusions. 10 Remarks and Special Rides for Branch I The superiority of merit or value of any two experiments, claiming the same or like 35 Judges. The Executive Committee.* BRANCH II. Premiums for Written Communications. Class 1st. 36 to 40. For each of the five best essays or written communica- tions, whether on the same or on dif- ferent subjects of practical agricul- ture, or on scientific agriculture, strictly and usefully applicable to practice, of high order of merit and utility for instruction — and conform- ing to the requisitions of the gen- eral rules on the subject, a premium of ' 350 Class 2nd. 41 to 50. For each of ten other and next best essays or written com- munications as above described, but which may fall short of the requisi- tions for the higher offers, a premi- um of Class 3rd. 51 to 70. For each of twenty other next best instructive written communications of new facts in agri- culture, a premium of 71. For the best treatise on gar- 20 10 See Rules and Regulations. 548 THE SOUTHERN PLANTER [September dening suited to the climate of Vir- ginia, to be not less than one hun- area pages, ^o 72. IJost treatise on the culture and management of Broom Corn, 10 Remarks on, and Special Rules for, Branch II. ESSAYS AND OTHER WRITTEN COMMUNI- CATIONS. 1. Essays and other written articles on practical subjects, must be founded mainly, and on scientific subjects, at least partly, on the writer's practical experience and per- sonal observation or investigation ; though portions of each may rest on other author- ities, to be stated particularly or generally, as required by the case. 2. The award of superiority to any one writing ever others on the same subject, will be made in reference to its probable greater utility to agricultural improvement or profit, as well as the ability with which the subject is treated. 3. In matter designed to instruct or to guide practical labours, clearness and full- ness of details will be deemed a high claim to merit— r and next conciseness. Nothing necessary for instruction should be omitted, and nothing included that can be omitted without injury to the value of the instruc- tion. 4. Written Communications to the Ex- ecutive Committee may be sent in at any time — the earlier the better — as they will at once be referred to the Committee on Essays, who will thus be enabled to scruti- nize, and the more correctly to estimate by comparison, the relative merits of the dif- ferent Essays submitted for their exami- nation. 5. It is required that all written commu- nications to the Society, received at any previous time and published by order of the Executive Committee, and which have not been duly considered, and denied pre- miums by the judges, shall be still held and considered as claiming, and in competition with any more recent writings for premi- ums offered, and for which any such wri- tings may be suitable, and further, even the previously published writings, which had been duly considered by the judges at the preceding Fair, and to which premiums were denied, shall still be held under re- view and consideration, by the judges for the next year's premiums, not again to be placed in competition, but for the purpose of being compared as to degrees of merit with the later writing then under consider- ation and adjudication for premiums. 6. When a premium has been awarded at a previous time to an essay, any other and later essay or written communication on that subject, to obtain a premium must be either deemed to have important addi- tional value compared with the former one so honoured, or otherwise be very different in matter, or manner of treatment, as well as of a sufficiently high order of merit. 7. All written communications to which may be awarded premiums, will be publish- ed in the Transactions of the Society ; and any ot-'.ers offered to compete for premiums, and not obtaining that honour, will be pub- lished in like manner, if deemed worthy by the Executive Committee. Judges. The Executive Committee. BRANCH III. HORSES. Thorough Bred — 1st Class. Awards to be made without regard to performance on the turf, and the judges are required to reject any animal compet- ing in this division, with which there is not furnished a complete pedigree, showing the purity of blood on the side of both dam and sire. 73. For' the best thorough bred stallion, $50 00 74. For the second best, 25 00] 75. For the third best, Certificate of Merit. 76. For the best thorough bred brood mare, 25 00 77. For the second best, 12 50 j 78. For the third best, Certificate of Merit. 79. For the best entire colt foal- ed since 1st January, 1856, 15 00 ! 80. For the best entire colt foal- ed since 1st January, 1857, 10 00 81. For the best entire colt foaled since 1st January, 1858, 7 50 82. For the best filly foaled since 1st January, 1856, 15 00 I 83. For the best filly foaled since 1st January, 1857, 10 00 ! 1859.] THE SOUTHERN PLANTER. 549 84. For the best filly foaled since 1st January, 1858, 7 50 85. For the best foal dropped since 1st January, 1859, 5 00 No premium to be given in the foregoing class to an animal that is un- sound. Judges. Col. Wm. Townes, Mecklenburg. Thomas W. Doswell, Hanover. William Berkeley, Loudoun. John M. Botts, Henrico. Oden Bowie, Marlborough, Md. Otway P. Hare, Prince Greorge. The Horse of General Utility — 2d Class. 86. For the best stallion for use- ful and elegant purposes combined, 50 00 87. For the second best, 25 00 88. For the third best, Certificate of Merit. 89. For the best brood mare for useful and elegant purposes com- bined, . 25 00 90. For the second best, 12 50 91. For tbe third best, Certificate of Merit. 92. For the best entire colt foaled since 1st January 1856. 15 00 93. For the best entire colt foaled since 1st January 1857, 10 00 94. For the best entire colt foaled since 1st January 1858, 7 50 • 95. For the best filly foaled since 1st January 1856. 15 00 96. For the best filly foaled since 1st January 1857. 10 00 97. For the best filly foaled since 1st January 1858. 7 50 98. For the best foal dropped since 1st January, 1859. 5 00 99. For the best pair of matched horses, 25 00 100. For the second best pair of matched horses, 10 00 101. For the best single harness horse, mare or gelding, 15 00 102. For the second best, 10 00 $£&* No premium to be given in the fore- going class to an animal that is unsound. Judge*. John A. Selden, Charles City, Norborne Berkeley, (Aldie) Loudoun. Nathaniel Burwell (Millwood) Clarke. Dr. Lucian B. Price, Hanover. Benjamin Wood, Albemarle. Quick Draught //>>r.sr, THE SOUTHERN PLANTER. [September 0ufljuit ^planter. RICHMOND, VIRGINIA, Preparation for the Wheat Crop. All lands which may be fallowed within the next six weeks, will, of course, require no far- ther plowing. The early fallows will pro- bably have so strong a covering of grass and weeds, as to make it necessary either to re-fal- low them thoroughly, or else to harrow well be- fore sowing the wheat, which should be "put in" with a single plow. Lands are benefitted by the covering and shading of pea-vines, and clover, in so great a degree, as to make it de- sirable not to turn these crops in at a very early period — but naked fallows are best made as soon in the season as is practicable. In proof of this opinion we may mention the fact, that on a small field belonging to the former Editor of this paper, the wheat growing on one half of it, which was fallowed in May, 1858, manifested a superiority over that growing on the other half, (fallowed the September following.) equal, at least, to an application of 100 lbs. guano to the acre. We supposed, when looking at it, that one half had had a liberal supply of guano, while the other part of the field was unassisted by manure of any kind. Of the modes of fal- lowing, we believe deep plowing to be best for stiff clay soils — while depth of furrow is not required by light lands. At the same time, we would recommend width of furrow sufficient to cover up with dirt, any grass or weeds on the surface — for the double purpose of getting them out of the way, and fertilizing the soil by their subsequent decomposition. Stiff lands require to be so plowed as to pre- vent, as far as is possible by plowing, any re- dundancy of water during the winter season, since wheat best flourishes on dry soils. This end may, in a great measure, be attained (in ihc absence of thorough draining) by plowing deep, and putting the land in beds. All water falling on the surface must be gotten rid of, either by con- ducting it into drains of some kind, which will hurry it off, or else by absorption, or evaporation. If the pores of the ground are closed by water, there must of necessity be much less aeration of the land than usual. The crop must, in con- sequence, sutler by the cutting off of this im- portant source of supply for both carbon and nitrogen — besides, the risk of " winter killing" is greatly increased, since the soil will be colder, and more liable to freezing and thawing in rapid succession, and every farmer knows that wheat is always most "winter killed" in wet spots. Again: If manures are used, the crop will be only partially, if at all benefitted by them, be- cause we have just seen that two most impor- tant agents in the decomposition of manures (by which they are reduced to a condition for assimilation by plants) are cut off, viz: air and heat. The crop will mature later, (to say noth- ing of the greater risk of rust, &c.,) and the ground will, in the spring, be in bad condition for the reception and germination of clover seed, for the evaporation of the water on the surface will cause it to bakehard, while the heat, which the soil would otherwise get the benefit of, is lost to it by this process of evaporation. On all tenacious soils — unless they are of so undulating a character as to have sufficient natural vents for the water which falls on them to run off speedily, — we think beds should be thrown up of such a width as will best assist drainage. We have plowed our own land in beds of various widths, and prefer to have them, in places requiring much drainage, 15 feet wide — but we think this width too narrow for most lands, since the numerous water- furrows are objectionable, unless they are an absolute neces" sity. They will interfere with harvest, opera- tions. We abhor the old-fashioned "single beds," since the many water-furrows not only occupy a considerable space in a large field, but they have a slovenly and unsightly appear- ance. We never put a bed in any place where we think we can avoid risk to land or crop by its absence. But on slopes even, we consider "head," or "catch drains," necessary, to arrest the volume of water running over the ground, before it traverses the whole surface, because thereby the danger of washing is greatly dimin- ished — the amount of rain-water is hurried and forced into the channels of these artificial out- lets, and the land thus sooner becomes dry and warm. Besides, no part of the arrable soil will then receive more water than falls upon it) and, consequently, there will be better aeration, 1859.] THE SOUTHERN PLANTER 587 and less retention and evaporation of wa- ter. Water-furrows should terminate in drains of sufficient capacity to empty them speedily, and prevent any backing or overflowing. We have found the method of plowing flat lands pro- posed by Mr. Edmund Rufiin, a great assist- ance in draining, and have been pursuing that course since the publication of his plan and diagram in the "Transactions of the Virginia State Agricultural Society." We recommend it to the attention of every man who has flat land to plow. The preparation of seed requires care. If seed-wheat is repeatedly fanned, and the mill blown hard, it may be rendered free from much cockle and other impurities. The cleanest and best of the crop should be selected for seed* after which everything but the pure grain should be taken out as far as practicable. Get rid of as many of the light and defective grainsaspossible. Of the manner of sowing. We believe the drill is the best of all methods for putting in the crop. It is claimed for this mode of sowing, that it is a means of getting rid of "underling" heads — the straw is of equal length, and there is much less danger of winter killing, in conse- quence of the dirt's falling after freezing around the roots, which is almost equal to a working — while it insures a good covering to the roots. The next best method of seeding, is covering with the single plow. The lap of the furrow producing what the "English and Scotch farmers call ribbing, by means of which nearly all the advantages of drilling are attained. In the application of fertilizers, there can be no doubt of the economy of using those of con- centrated strength in the drill, with the wheat, at the time of sowing. If this be done, we strongly recommend the use of plaster with them. -Ashes, also, (although apparently incom- patible with guano,) are a great help to the wheat crop, when mixed with it. True, they will cause the escape of Ammonia from guano — but this loss may, in a great measure, be avoided by not mixing them until ready for sowing, and as soon as the mixture is made it may be put into strong cotton bags. The escape of ammonia under ground makes no dif- ference, in our opinion, as it is soon fixed by the clay. Wc have tried this plan with good re- sults, and seen it turn out well on the farms of several other persons. Sowing grass seed with wheat. A nice and thorough preparation of the surface soil ib neces- sary fcr tin- reception of grata seed. The seed should be sown after harrowing has been well done, and covered lightly. The covering may be efficiently and neatly accomplished by run- ning over the ground "Devrey'a Qleaner," or spring-tooth rake. Some of the best crops of clover we have ever seen, were seeded in the autumn with wheat. Timothy may also be seeded in the fall. We have had the pleasure of seeing one "fine stand" of timothy this sea- son, which was seeded with the last wheat crop. The best time for sowing these grass seeds, is with the late sowed wheat. We generally have wet weather early in November, after a "dry spell" in October; and the best time for putting in clover and timothy seed, is after the rains of November, as soon as the ground is in proper condition for harrowing. Should they be sown early in the fall, they are apt to be killed out in October. Veterinary College of Philadelphia. We have received in pamphlet form the first annual announcement of the above institution. We cannot better express our sense of its great importance, than by laying before our readers the programme of the fourthcoming course of lectures, the list of the Faculty, the expenses of the student, &c, &c. The subject is of universal interest to our agriculturists, and we tender them our hearty congratulations, that it is at last about to be re- deemed from the neglect and indifference to which it has been so long abandoned. "VETERINARY COLLEGE OF PHILADELPHIA. " This Institution, chartered by the Pennsyl- vania State Legislature, 1852, will be put into operation the present year at Philadelphia, where it will be permanently located. "The necessity for such an Institution in this country has long been felt, but for the want of qualified Veterinary Practitioners, it has been deferred to this late day. "Philadelphia, the great emporium of medi- cal science on this continent, has been chosen as the most suitable place in which to rear up an Institution, for the promulgation of a sis- ter science. The reputation of her Medical Schools, extends over the whole civilized world. The facilities for Anatomical investi- gations, Clinical instruction, &c. &c, are at least as great as those of any other city in the Union. The Museum of the College already embraces a collection of Pathological Speci- 588 THE SOUTHERN PLANTER. [September mens, in point of excellence far surpassing those of many European Veterinary Colleges of many years standing* Over one thousand prepara- tions have already been deposited in the Col- lege Museum, the skeletons of the pacing horse " Hiawatha," the trotting horse "Blue Dick," a Shetland Pony, formerly belonging to Welch's Circus Company, &c. A Mule, a Cow, a Hog, and a Dog, each neatly mounted in wires, add interest to this valuable collection. The Lec- ture room is conveniently and comfortably fit- ted up. The Dissecting rooms are sufficiently large, and afford every facility for pursuing An- atomical investigations, material in abundance always at hand, without extra charge. The Library contains a number of the most valua- ble Veterinary works published in this country and in Europe. " In establishing Veterinary Colleges in this country, a new field is opened to the votary of Veterinary science for extensive investigation, wherein to build up fame and fortune. "A man with but ordinary abilities, with proper energy, can distinguish himself in the world by embracing this profession, while in most others he would only arrive at mediocrity; here is an unbeaten path for him to pursue, which, if faithfully and honestly followed, will lead to usefulness and honour. " TRUSTEES. "Gen. George Cadwalader; Prof. William Gibson, M. D. ; John Philips, M. D. ; Alfred L. Elwyn, M. D.; Hon. Frederick Watts; Gen. George M. Keim ; James Gowen, Esq.; Hon. George W. Woodward; Sketchley Morton, Esq.; Alonzo Potter, D. D. ; James Bryan, M. D. ; L. L. Ward. " FACULTY. "W. W. Fraley, V. S., Professor of Meteria Medica and Therapeutics. "T. J. Corbyn, V. S., Professor of Pathology, Surgery, and Practice of Medicine in refer- ence to all domestic Animals. " G. W. Bowler, V. S., (of Cincinnati,) Prof, of Medical Chemistry and Pharmacy. "R. Jennings, V. S., Prof, of Anatomy, Physiol- ogy, and Operative Surgery. "session op 1859-60. "The regular Lectures of the course will commence on the first Monday in November, and continue daily for sixteen consecutive weeks. The lectures embrace all the several departments of Veterinary Medical Science; as taught in the regular Veterinary Institutions of Europe. "The lectures of the Faculty, embrace : — "I. MATERIA MEDICA. "The commercial, Physical history, proper- ties and modes of action of the individual arti- cles of the Materia Medica. " II. PHARMACY. " The mode of preparing medicines for use, together with their doses and therapeutic effects nn hnrsfis. r>attlp. Rrn on horses, cattle, &c. "III. THERAPEUTICS. " The treatment of the various diseases inci dental to the Horse, the Ox, the Sheep, Hog and the Dog, &c. IV. ANATOMY. " 1st. Osteology, or a description of the bones; 2d. The Ligaments; 3d. Myology or muscles ; 4th. Neurology or an account of the brain and nervous system ; 5th. The general structure of the body, the various tissues, &c, &c. V. PHYSIOLOGY. "The functions of life, the circulation of the blood, function of the Heart, Arteries, Veins and Capillaries, with the composition of the blood, &c. "VI. PATHOLOGY. " The effects of diseases upon the animal economy, change of structure arising from mor- bid action, causes, symptoms, and development of diseases. "VII. SURGERY. "Local or Surgical Pathology; embracing an account of such diseased conditions as may de- mand surgical intervention. "The lectures will be illustrated by draw- ings, diagrams, wet and dry preparations, bones, skeletons, preparations in wax, papier mache, and plaster, and the usual appliances for de- monstrating this science. " Medical and surgical cliniques, Will be given Wednesdays and Saturdays of each week during the session, patients will be placed in charge of the students under the direction of the faculty, thus giving them an early oppor- tunity of acquiring practical as well as theoret- ical knowledge, in fact every facility will be af- forded to perfect their education. " REQUIREMENTS OF STUDENTS. " Each student will be required to attend two full courses of lectures previous to graduation, one of which must be in this Institution, in ad- dition to which he will be required to study at least two years under some respectable prac- titioner of veterinary medicine, either before or during his term of college instruction. "APPLICANTS FOR GRADUATION. " 1. Each candidate shall have arrived at the age of 21 years. " 2. He shall have attended two full courses of lectures; one of which must be in this In- stitution. "3. he will be required to present a thesis written in his own hand, on some Veterinary subject, which must be presented at the time of making his application. "4. He will be required to furnish evidence from his preceptor that he has received the necessary office instruction, and that he has at- tended two regular courses of lectures. 1859.] THE SOUTHERN PLANTER. 589 "5. A two-third vote of the Examining Com- mittee, composed of not less than three medical practitioners, and the same number of Veteri- nary Surgeons, whose names shall be affixed to the diploma, will be necessary to entitle the candidate to the degree of Veterinary Sur- geon. " For the encouragement of those whose means are too limited to allow of the usual ex- penditure, six students will be admitted annu- ally on the payment of thirty dollars each for the first OOUrse, exclusive of the matriculation and graduation fees, and for the second course the sum of twenty dollars. These arrange- ments will be strictly confidential, and no dis- tinction will be made between the beneficiary and other students. Persons making applica- tion on these terms, will be required to do so in writing, accompanied by testimonials of char- acter, want of means, &c, previous to the open- ing of the session. If more than six applica- tions are received, the successful candidates will be duly notified. u The regular session will commence on the first Monday in November, 1859, and continue four months. " FEES : First course, $100 00 Matriculation, paid once only, 5 00 The first being in this College. Second course, . . . $50 00 Graduation, 25 00 No fees for lectures after second course. " Good board may be obtained form $2 50 per week upwards. "Further information may be obtained on ap- plication to » R. JENNINGS, V. S., DEAN, " No. 1526 N. Fourth St., Philada., Pa." Descriptive Catalogues, Nos. 2, 3 and 4, of Fruits, Ornamental Trees, Shrubs, Vines, Roses, &c. and Dahlias, Ver- benas, Fuchsias, Petunias, Heliotropes, Miscel- laneous Bedding Plants, Camellias, Geraniums, &c, &c. With other Green House and Hot House Plants, cultivated and for sale by Thorp, Smith & Hanchett, at the Syracuse Nurseries, New York. The Proprietors in their introductory say : " The extent of this establishment,- -now one of the largest in the United States, — the thorough manner in which its business is conducted, the excellence and variety of its productions, the moderation of its prices, the convenience of its location, the completeness of its arrangements, and its facilities for the prompt execution and .ready transmission of orders, give it claims upon the consideration of the public second to none other in the country." We are indebted to them for the following: M HINTS ON THE TRANSPLANTING AND MANAGEMENT OP FRUIT TREES. " 1. Let the hole be dug from twelve to eigh- teen indies deep, and large enough (the larger the better) to receive the roots without Clamp- ing; throw back and scatter the subsoil, and partially fill the hole with good surface earth, so as to fit it for the tree to stand about as deep as when in the nursery. " 2d. Prune off the ends of all the roots, leav- ing them fresh and free from bruises, and put the tree in the place prepared — cover the roots lightly with rich, mellow earth, pour on water, and work the tree gently up and down, alter- nately adding earth and water until every cav- ity is well filled. Or better, work the earth thoroughly around the roots with the hands. "3d. Pack the earth firmly by pressing it with the foot from the circumference of the hole, to- wards the body of the tree, then throw in one- third of a wheel-barrow load of well-rotted ma- nure, cover it with about two inches of earth, and press the whole well down, leaving it a little crowning about the tree. If planted in Autumn, the earth should be heaped from eight to twelve inches high around the body of the tree. This serves the three-fold purpose of supporting it in an erect position, protecting it from mice, and preserving the roots from the action of the frost. In the following Spring the earth should be removed. "4th. Trim up the tree to four or five limbs, suitable to form a top, and cut each of the side limbs back to a bud within four or five inches of the body, leaving the central or leading limb from eight to twelve inches long. But when there are no side limbs suitable for this purpose, the tree should be divested of all its branches, and headed back to a height proper to form the top. If planted in Autumn, this pruning should be deferred until early in Spring; but it should by no means be neglected altogether as nothing so much conduces to the success of transplanting, and to the sidjsequent beauty and prosperity of the tree. This direc- tion is applicable to fruit trees of all kinds. " 5th. For an orchard, the soil, before plant- ing, should be made mellow by repeated plow- ing, and kept constantly cultivated for several succeeding years. For this purpose potatoes, beets and other low-hoed crops, are best, as they give the trees the frequent benefit of the plow, the cultivator and the hoe, and leave them in the full enjoyment of the necessary stimulants of air and light. "Precautions. — First. If the trees come to hand while the earth is too wet to receive them, bury their roots until the condition of the earth is more favourable. Second. If the roots be- come dry from too long exposure, place them in water, and let them remain from twelve to twenty-four hours. Third. To protect them from drought, nothing is so effectual as to spread a covering of straw, loose litter, or leaves, about their roots, after the transplanting is completed. This keeps the earth light and 590 THE SOUTHERN PLANTER. [September moist, and renders the too often injurious pro- cess of watering unnecessary. It should be practised, however, only in Spring, as in Au- tumn it would afford lodgment for mice. Fourth. To prevent injury from these little depredators, stamp the snow around the bodies of all young trees several times during the winter. It may be done most effectually during a thaw.'' Hungarian or Honey Blade Grass. Some of onr exchange papers speak of this grass as a humbug. So far as ihe exorbitant price demanded for it is concerned, we endorse their opinion ; and would not advise any one to purchase it, except on a very small scale. We have not attempted to raise any of it on our own farm, but have seen some half dozen patches growing on the farms of our neighbours. These gentlemen have not yet acquired suffi- cient experience with it to be able to speak very strongly in favour, or in condemnation of it. Of course w r e can say nothing of it, as an ar- ticle of food for stock, compared with other well known grasses ; but w r e have been agree- ably surprised at its general appearance and luxuriance of growth. If any of our Virginia or North Carolina friends have tested its merits in such manner as will entitle them to speak of it impartially, we shall be glad if they will furnish us the result of their experience. Mr. Pizzini's Candy and Ice Cream Palace- A very elegant and handsome new store has just been opened by the enterprise of this gen- tleman, on Broad street, in this city. Mr. P., if not a farmer, deserves to be consid- ered at least in the light of a relative to that honorable class, as his saloon is a good market for strawberries, milk, &c, which are generally improved in quality by his skillful treatment of them. We enjoyed the pleasure of an inspec- tion of his beautifully frescoed saloon, together with an abundant supply of eatables and drink- ables, which his hospitality furnished to the editors of this city. As sincerely as any gentle- man "connected with the Press," do we wish him prosperity and contentment — "the best of everything" he has already. Beautiful Specimens of Fine Fruit. Mr. H. J. Smith has presented us with two varieties of pears grown on dwarfed stocks on his premises, which are equal in size, appear- ance and flavor to any specimens of the same varieties we have ever seen. He has fourteen varieties of dwarf pears, all of choice kinds and prolific bearers. On one tree, about six feet high, a visitor at his garden counted ninety-six pears, of healthful appearance and vigorous growth. He has high celebrity for the produc- tion of the best fruits and vegetables. , * — • » * The Farmer's Journal. Mr. Pleasants, who has ably conducted the editorial management of the Southern Farmer, has associated with him Mr. Smyth, and the name of the paper will in future be "The Far- mer's Journal." We hope these gentlemen will be eminently successful in their enterprise. For the Southern Planter. Warren Co., N. C, Aug. 12, 1859. Will some farmer give us his experience with the following articles as manure for wheat, viz: "Rhodes' Super-Phosphate of lime," and the Mixture of Peruvian and Sombrero Guanos, in equal quantities? State what quantity of either is advisable to use on fair corn land; and if he has a decided preference for one of these arti- cles as superior to the other, mention which he prefers. A Subscriber. We invite responses from our friends to this query. Also, reports as to the " Comparative Economy of using 'Manipulated' and 'Peru- vian' guanos." Agricultural Fairs of Virginia, 1859. The Central Society will hold a Fair on their new and handsome grounds near this city, on the 25th, 26th, 27th, 28th and 29th of October. The Seaboard Society, in Norfolk, 8th, 9th, 10th and 11th November. The Lynchburg Society, in Lynchburg, com- mencing October 18th. The South-Western Society, at Wytheville, 12th and 13th of October. The Virginia State Society, associated with the Union Society of Virginia and North Carolina, will hold a Fair on the ground belonging to the latter, near the city of Petersburg, on the 1st, 2d, 3d and 4th of November. We trust that the interest hitherto manifested by the citizens of our good old Commonwealth in these Exhibitions, of not only the various fine animals owned within our borders, but of her own 'fair women and brave men,' together with the evidences of her industry, skill, liberality 1859.] THE SOUTHERN PLANTER, 591 and good taste, will ensure successful Fain in all these places, and that the articles, of every class, exhibited may be characterized by excel- lence and variety, besides being too numerous to mention. Among the new business enterprises of our city, we are glad to learn that a large Paper Mill is to be erected speedily, and also a Sugar Refinery. Mr. F. G. Ruffin has a large mill tfl operation, grinding and preparing the ingredients of his Phospho- Peruvian Guano." Thus it will be seen that purchasers can pro- cure at home articles which are always wanted and which many of us have to send after, in order to procure them. We hope these new enterprises may be eminently successful and prosperous. Our thanks are hereby tendered to the follow- ing gentlemen, for pamphlets sent us : Messrs. A. Frost & Co. — Descriptive Catalogue of Dahlias, Verbenas, &c, and Fruits; cultivated and for sale at "Genesee Valley Nurseries," Ro- chester, N. Y. Messrs. W. M. Hoyt & Co.'s Catalogue of Fruits, Trees, Shrubs and Evergreens; for sale at "East Avenue Nurseries," near Rochester, N. Y. To the President of the Agricultural and Me- chanical Association of St. Louis, Missouri — for Schedule of their Premiums, amounting to $20,- 000. Edward Warren, M. D. — for the Medical Jour- nal. Published at Edenton, N. C, at >$3 per annum, in advance. Finch's Grease Extractor. We have received from Mr. Edward T. Finch a phial of his preparation for removing paint, tar, wax, and any kind of grease, from silk and woolen dresses. Price 25 cents. As we made trial of the article with the in- tention of speaking plainly our estimation of its merits — whether good or bad — we take pleasure in assuring our readers that it is no humbug, but really a very effective application for the remo- val of grease spots from woolen clothes, and we doubt not from silk goods also, though of this we cannot speak from experience. Try it. Fine Sheep. We call attention to the advertisement of Dr. John R. Woods' tine sheep, in our advertising columns. To those who are acquainted with him, no other recommendation than his name is needed; others, we would refer to the published results of the Annual State Agricultural Pairs, for the high estimation in which his stork gene* rally, and his sheep particularly, have; been held. He has just imported a Cleveland stallion, considered by his purchasing agent the besl to be bought in England, and hy many good judges superior to the noble animal " Napier," which he was so unfortunate as to lose on his home- ward passage last year. From the American Agriculturist. Agricultural Exhibitions should be Some- thing More than mere Shows. It is a matter of great importance, that our agricultural exhibitions should not be mere gala-days, fo- sight-seeing and gossip- ing. The holiday uses of the occasion is all well enough, but the managers of these fairs should bear in mind that they have a more sober aim. They will profit our hus- bandry just as l hey are made to disseminate the correct principles that underlie our farming interests. There needs to be some reform in our premium lists, that shall re- ward the princijrtes rather than the facts of husbandry. A large crop of corn, one hundred bushels to the acre, or more, is a good sight, and worthy of reporting. But the statement which involves the principles by which such a crop was grown, is worth much more to the world. That will teach other farmers how to raise maximum crops of corn, at the least expense. A fat ox is worth going to see, but what we are most anxious to know, is, whether the flesh and fat has been laid upon the bones so as to pay expenses. The men who make a living by fattening cattle, cannot afford to make playthings of them. If our agricultural societies can show that beef can be made for eight cents a pound, when it is selling for nine and ten, farmers have a rational motive for producing beef. The whole details of -the process will be read with the liveliest interest, and will bo of direct pecuniary value in the community. But if, in the same state of the market, it costs eleven and twelve cents a pound to make fat beef, who is benefitted by the ex- 502 THE SOUTHERN PLANTER. [September hibition? The premium should te offered and paid to the man who will best illustrate the principles of producing beef economi- cally. And so, in all depa tments of the exhi- bition, the chief attention should be given to the economy of production. We exhibit annually the best products of our farms and orchards, our meadows and pastures. The multitudes gather from the fartns end the villages to behold the fine horses and cows, the splendid fruits and vegetables, and t e irreproachable butter and cheese. They wonder and admire, and are, doubtless, stimulated to do something better in their husbandry, but without receiving any defi- nite information, as to the best methods of realizing their wishes. They have set be- fore them, in these fairs, good examples of stock raising, fruit growing, and field culti- vation, but they get few of the secrets of that skill which is everywhere visible. To multitudes, these fine fruits and prod.-.ts are as great a mystery as if they were the results of legerdemain. Neither themselves nor their neighbors ever secured such re- sults, and they do not understand the phi- losophy of a hundred bushels of corn to the acre, or of Duchesse pears weighing a pound and a-half a-piece. The fair doe. not give to them a single new principle, nor suggest to them a better method of cultivating a single crop. The time has come, we think, when agri- cultural societies, while they pay no less at- tention to things, should pay far more atten- tion to ■principles. It should be a leading- aim with the managers of these institutions, to instruct the communities in which they are located, in the principles of husbandry. The addresses, the report , and the state- ments of exhibitors, where these are re- quired, need to be more carefully prepared. Too often the address is from a gentleman, eminent only in political life, and as igno- rant of farming, or any other industrial pur- suit, as he is of Sanscrit The best occa- sion in the whole year, with its audiences of thousands, and its glowin inspiration, is absolutely thrown away. The reports are often made up by a fourth-rate lawyer, whose chief qualification for the office is, that he has little business of his ovn to attend to. The statemen s, if mad. by practical men, are often defective in essential d tails, so that they are no guide to inquirers after the principles of husbandry. We call for a reform in the management of societies, so that the whole exhibition shall be a contribution to the science of agriculture. We want to understand the experience and the practical skill that has produced the crops, much more than to see the results of this skill. Galloway Cattle. We believe we are almost the only friend of the Scotch race of cattle, called Gallo- way, (sometimes called " polled M or no horns,) that they have in Maine. At any rate, neither the cattle nor the friends of them are very plenty among us. At our suggestion the Trustees of the State Socie- ty, willing to encourage the breeding of all useful animals in the State, very readily made a class of them in their list of premi- ums. A few were exhibited, but they had to take a by-corner of the field, and the committee who examined thern, and award- ed premiums on them in accordance with the schedule, made the remark in their re- port, that they could not recommend them for general distribution about the country, or words to that effect. On that point we take issue with them. We are willing to accord to the other breeds of cattle, all the merits that belong- to them. We have in times past, bred Durhams and Hereibrds, and other breeds. Indeed, we were the first who ever intro- duced a thorough-bred Durham into the State. These and other breeds have their good qualities and their failings, and we have long since been taught by the lessons of ex- perience, (and some of them were rather dear,) that you cannot get all the properties you want in a stock of cattle in one hide. That God has made different races of what we call farm stock, and that the art of man has formed from them varieties which we call breeds, — that the farmer must con- sider what his wants are, and the capacity of his farm is, and choose such races or such breeds as may be best adapted to the circumstances. He may, therefore, culti- vate one, two or more of these breeds or races. We have also become convinced from ex- perience, that, in a large part of Maine, the Scotch cattle, such as Galloways, (those which have no horns, and the West High- landers which have horns) are the best adapted for raising beef of the very best 1859.] THE SOUTHERN PLANTER. 593 quality in the world, quickly and cheaply. As yet, none of the West Highlanders have been introduced. Of the Galloways there are a few, and with all due deference to our respected friends of the committee, we shall do what we can to have more of them. Adapt your stock to your wants and your means. We know that the rearing of large, stately oxen for the lumber market and other markets, is profitable; and we say to those in a condition to do it, and have the taste for it, go on and prosper in the busi- ness. But, that the beef that these ani- mals make, is the best and most profitably raised is a mistake. For heavy teams of excellent workers, they are what you want, but the rearing of beef is an object too, and that animal which will afford you the best quality at the least cost, is found in the Scotch cattle. We know this from ex- periment with all the breeds, (except Devons and West Highlands,) and our experience is but a corroboration of those who have had older and still more experience. This is often expressed on the other side of the water. The Mark Lane Express, speaking of the late show of the Highland Agricultural So- ciety, at Aberdeen, says that at dinner, Mr. Torr, in some remarks, said — " Whatever you do don't neglect the native breeds of Scotland. Depend upon it, the nation does not possess more valuable animals than I these native breeds." The Express adds — "We fancy he was speaking here to the merits of the polled beasts, but the High- landers are, in their way and for their pur- pose, as worthy of proper cultivation." Mr. Howard, Editor of the Boston Culti- vator, who has recently been in Scotland, examining and purchasing cattle there, says, in regard to the above remark in the Express : " We second these observations, being satisfied from what we saw of these breeds in Scotland, that they are very valu- able, and we hope to see some fair trials yet made of them in America." If great Britain does not contain " more valuable animals than these native breeds," we certainly should not despise them. [Maine Farmer. < »* >> — Cellar for a Farm-House. There are few departments of the farm- house that are of more importance than the oellar, yet it is perhaps more generally neglected than any other part of the prem- ises, being out <>f* sight, it is left to take care of itself, and will seldom bear very inspection. There Bhould bi I reform here, and I will state what I consider the proper mode of constructing a good and convenient cellar. A Tier settling in your mind the proper height of the cellar, (which should not be less than seven DOT more than eight feet high,) dig one foot deeper than you intend the bottom when finished ; then dig under at the bottom all around from four to six inches, and lay a course of flat stones pro- jecting beyond the outside of the main wall at least four inches, to prevent rats from working under. Lay your foundation in water lime mortar, carrying it up in the same as far as you can be safe from frost; and the remainder in quick lime mortar. Lay the wall in two distinct courses of stones, and do not allow the inner and outer stones to touch each other, but fill the middle with mortar to make a. solid wall. Make your windows with double glass shashes, and you need have little fear that frost will penetrate to injure anything. If your cellar bottom is dry, porous, gravelly soil, you do not need a drain, but that is seldom the case. The sure way is to dig a drain from one side to carry off superfluous water, and if a wet, clayey bot- tom, lay drain tile around or through it, so as effectually to draw off all the water, and then cover the bottom between and over the tile with small stones to the depth of one foot, and cover the whole with water lime cement. In situations where there is no fall for draining, the sides may be plas- tered with cement, to keep out water as much as possible. Lay timbers down while the mortar is soft, for sills to be used for 'divisions, and make simple board partitions, as they are less expensive than brick, and answer equally well in most cases. The cellar should be divided into at least four apartments, viz : — a milk room, fitted with shelves for the milk pans ; store room for provisions, with cupboard, &c. ; a larger apartment for the storage of fruit, cidar barrels, &c. ; and a dark room for potatoes and other vegetables, as they keep better, when excluded from light. Have ample ar- rangements for lighting and ventilating all the apartments, (except the dark one,) at all times, and you have a place for every- thing necessary about a cellar, and with but little expense after once built. — Gen. Far. 594 THE SOUTHERN PLANTER. [September The Day is Done. The day is done, and the darkness Falls from the wings of Night, As a feather is wafted downward From an eagle in his flight. I see the lights of the village Gleam through the rain and the mist, And a feeling of sadness comes o'er me, That my sold cannot resist: A feeling of sadness and longing, That is not akin to pain, And resembles sorrow only As the mist resembles the rain. Come read to me some poem, Some simple and heartfelt lay, That shall soothe this restless feeling And banish the thoughts of day. Not from the grand old masters, Not from the bards sublime, Whose distant footsteps echo Through the corridors of Time. For, like strains of martial music, Their mighty thoughts suggest Life's endless toil and endeavour; And to-night I long for rest. Read from some humble poet, Whose songs gushed from his heart, As showers from the clouds of summer, Or tears from the eyelids start; Who, through long days of labour, And nights devoid of ease, Still heard in his soul the music Of wonderful melodies. Such songs have power to quiet The restless pulse of care, And come like the benediction That follows after prayer. Then read from the treasured volume The poem of thy choice, And lend to the rhyme of the poet The beauty of thy voice. And the night shall be filled with music And the cares, that infest the day, Shall fold their tents, like the Arabs, And as silently steal away. Longfellow. To a Friend Gathering Wild Flowers. Where thorny ramparts seem to chide The hand which steals the flow'ry wreath; I've seen thee thrust the thorn aside, To pluck the flow'r which blush'd beneath. And thus, Maria, as the whirl Of life leads on the changing hour, Remember still the sweets to steal; Elude the thorn to pluck the flower. When fortune shows a dubious sky, The East may smile, the West may lour; Still to the brighter turn the eye, Elude the thorn to pluck the flower; In pity to its child below, If Heaven the cup of comfort sour, The lesson learn, but ease the woe: Elude the thorn to pluck the flower. But there — ah, shun the sweets which grow Where pleasure paints her poison'd bowers: Dark are the streams, which gently flow, And rude the thorns which guard her flowers. And seek thy sweets on holier ground, And where Religion's altars rise: Her's are the thorns which never wound, And her's the flower which never dies. A World of Love at Home. BY J. J. REYNOLDS. The earth hath treasures fair and bright, Deep buried in her caves; And ocean hideth many a gem With her blue, curling waves; Yet not within her bosom dark, Or 'neath the clashing foam, Lies there a treasure equaling A world of love at home. True, sterling happiness and joy Are not with gold allied; Nor can it yield a pleasure like A merry fireside. I envy not the man who dwells, In stately hall or dome, If mid his splendor he hath not A world of love at home. The friends whom time has proved sincere, 'Tis they alone can bring A sure relief to hearts that droop 'Neath sorrow's heavy wing. Though care and trouble may be mine, As down life's path I roam, I'll heed them not while still I have A world of love at home.