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THE SOUTHERN PLANTER.

of land now, as they did twent3^five years ago, but to keep twice as manj 7 cattle, sheep and swine on the same amount of food as they did; and, of course, to make twice as much beef, mutton, and tallow, wool, butter and cheese, from any given amount of vegetable food."

Would that we had space (for the sake of such of our readers as may not have an opportunity of seeing the original) to make further extracts from this part of the report. We will, however, add the fact here stated, in proof of the advantages of the diffusion of useful knowledge in farming, "that under the immediate influence of the Highland Agricultural Society in Scotland, wheat has averaged fifty-one bushels to th% acre, luhere but little luas formerly groivn."

But we must hasten to endeavor to gather up other important facts stated in the report, under various heads.*

Wheat. —In Virginia, the Commissioner states, "the average increase in 1843 of the crop for the whole State (increase from 1842) was near twenty per cent. . . . The Mediterranean wheat is highly commended, by many farmers in different locations, as being free fiom attacks of the fly, and by some, as " proof against fly, rust and frost." Gen. Harmon, of New York, recommends the " improved flint." The General gives his mode of culture as follows:

" Thirty years ago we were in the habit of ploughing in the most of our wheat on smooth land ; we used the common two-horse plough ; but we became satisfied that some of the seed was covered too deep; the plough was given up, and the harrow has been used since. A few years since, I built me a three-cornered harrow, and, instead of teeth, I put in the common cultivator teeth, which I have used on my summer fallows and for covering my wheat; the last time in going over it, I go north and south. This leaves the land a little ridgy and protected from the cold north-west winds, which are se--vere here in the month of March after the snow is off; when the roller is used after the harrow, it has been more killed out; and when the soil is made very fine, it is more liable to be winter killed. The common horse ploughs bury the seed too deep; the lately constructed quadruple plough answers very well."

On the subject of early sowing, the following remarks are made:

" Two evils have been stated as objections

* Let it not be forgotten by the reader that the statistical and other facts stated in the report are derived from a most extensive correspondence, as also, from published sources, and the tabular statement referred to is made from accurate reports. _ '

against the early sowing—the Hessian fly; and the lodging of the grain, by premature growth of the head, while the stalk is not strong enough to bear the weight. It is suggested, however, that the autumnal attack of the Hessian fly may be prevented by rolling the field with a heavy roller, and thus destroying the insect in a worm state. The practice has been found, on -trial, to be very useful, and comes well recommended. The objection to rankness, or its lodging, it is stated, may be obviated by turning in a flock of sheep to eat it down in dry weather in the early spring; it is added, that this will not injure, but benefit the crop, as the manure of sheep is well adapted to wheat. It is estimated by a writer whose means of judgment are not ordinary, that the wheat crop of this country is lessened by what is called winterkilling, at least one-third below what it might be otherwise ; and that this loss is also mainly owing to the practice of late sowing. The proper time for sowing wheat, or any other grain, must depend on the latitude and general climate; but it is thought that in almost all cases there would be an advantage in sowing wheat at least two or three weeks earlier than usual.— Late sowing is not merely otherwise not so beneficial, but it also interferes more in the preparation of the land, with trre general business, and the gathering of other crops, and is, therefore, most expensive."

On Jimount of Seed. —We learn " that two bushels to the acre is the right quantity—that in England two and a quarter to three and a half is sown." Pretty thick sowing!! We beg to say that many of the Old Dominion farmers think that something might be said on the other side of this question. We can't now " argue that point," however.

On the subject of the diseases of wheat we must reserve the remarks of Mr. Ellsworth for a separate article, preferring to give them at length to abridging them. (See p. 38 of Report.)

We are compelled to omit any notice of the very interesting remarks of the Commissioner with regard to rye, Indian corn, buckwheat, flax, &c. all of which we cannot too strongly urge on the reader's attention. The notices of tobacco, rice, and silk are equally entertaining; and indeed almost every species of vegetable growth of our extended country appears to have engaged the attention of Mr. Ellsworth. Butter and the productions of the dairy occupy a prominent place in the report, and much valuable information, not omitting the valuable results of Professor Playfair's experiments, is imparted.

That portion of the report which is devoted

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to manures, will be read with much interest and profit. In Appendix, (No. 24, p. 176 to 185,) we have " Jauffrett's mode of making manure" noticed at length. Our readers will remember that the public attention has been attracted of late to the claims, real or pretended, of Bommer and others to the merit of a new invention of alleged great value. Mr. Ellsworth has given a copy of Jauffrett's patent, introduced into England under the name of Rosser, of which the American patent claims to be an improvement. Without discussing the claims of Bommer at this time, (of which the readers of the Planter have already been fully informed,) we think we will do our readers essential service if we shall be able successfully to call their attention to " Jauffrett's experiments on manures." (See Report p. 179.) This portion of the document is a translation (in substance) of a pamphlet published by Jauf-frett in French a few years since at Paris. Mr. Jauffrett, it appears from his own account, was for years engaged with enthusiastic ardor in endeavoring to find out some method of making large quantities of manure with materials furnished by nature or art, without dependance to a great extent on animal manures. The history of his experience is most entertaining: inheriting his paternal estate of fifty acres, he greatly desired to cultivate it and restore its exhausted fertility. " In 1798 he felt the necessity of increasing the quantity of manure, for he had but two oxen on xohich to rely as a svpply for his land. He first established sewers along the road bordering his farm, into which he cast vegetables and woody stalks, in order to soften and impregnate them in that liquid." From these humble beginnings after years of labor and toil, and with all the enthusiasm of the ancient Alchemist in search of the Philosopher's Stone, he at length arrived at results which will no doubt prove a lasting benefit to the cause of agriculture. We hope at an early day to transfer to our columns the account of Jauffrett's experiments.

We must again regret that we cannot extend this notice farther than again to commend its attentive perusal to our readers. His Satanic Majesty of the printing office, (vulgarly y'clept the " Printer's Devil,") admonishes us to come to a halt. But, if we can, more anon.

The above, although written and printed in editorial form, is prepared by a friend, to whose pen we already stand much indebted.—En.

For the Southern Planter.

HOG GRAZING.

Mr. Editor, —One of the greatest obstacles to raising pork is giving the hogs proper attention and food in summer. I had, till the last few years, the " Sand-hill" hog, so happily described in a recent number of the Planter.— They were great travellers, and some of them lived till autumn on pine roots and corn field depredations, but were wholly unmanageable as grazers. I have now fine fields of clover, and having no cross fences within my farm, I am trying this year (with Berkshires, however,) the grazing plan. For the first day or two they are a little unruly, but now, my hog minders (an old man and very small boy,) control them and confine them in their grazing operations, without trouble, to a very small spot, if necessary. I understand that Mr. H. E. Watkins, whose manager is a very successful hog raiser, grazes some one hundred and fifty or two hundred hogs, and the boy by his voice drives them to and from the field without difficulty, and that the hogs have learned to separate when they are driven to their pens at night, the sows and pigs to one pen and the other hogs to the other pen. There are many advantages in the grazing system with hogs: they injure the clover but little, if any; you are enabled to raise large quantities of manure in your properly littered pens ; and you are saved the expense of feeding with corn. During the grazing season let them be well supplied with salt and ashes in troughs.

T. F. V.

Scott green, May 15, 1844.

ROOT CULTURE.

A paper on the Culture of Roots, read before the "Practical Farmer's Club" by one of its Members, at their March meeting — Wilmington, Delaware.

No crop is more important to the farmer than the root crop, and yet how very seldom in this section of country do we see it sufficiently appreciated. At the head of this valuable family, stands the ruta baga or Swedish turnip, being first, in my opinion, for the following reasons: The seed is put in the most readily, less liable to injury from the insect when young, requiring less expense in the culture, not injured by the early frosts, keeps better through the winter, and last, though all important, yields the most certain crop.

I have been cultivating them for the last 13 years, from one to five acres annually, and like all other crops, with different success, but never uniil this last year an entire failure, when fiom some cause almost all our root crops were lost; nor do I think I have ever raised much over 600 bushels per acre, taking the whole crop together; no doubt by selecting a few square

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yards of the best, as is too often done in reports of crops, and making the calculation at that rate per acre, I might have doubled this amount. Perhaps it may have been from want of proper culture, manure, or some other cause, that I have not obtained a larger yield, for we frequently see statements of crops reaching from 1,000 to 1,500 bushels per acre. At page 61, Vol. I. of the Farmers' Cabinet, you will find the statement of a crop of one acre grown in this county, from which two tons of hay were cut before planting; then $58 worth of manure spread on it, which, with the preparation and labor with the crop, &c, brought the expenses of it to $83 55, still the yield handsomely remunerated it, being 850 bushels, which at 16 cents per bushel, the price obtained for part of them, the balance being consumed on the farm, makes $136—two tons of hay sold for $34, and four tons of tops estimated at $8, makes a total of $178, from which deduct the expenses above, and we have a clear profit of $94 45 from one acre; besides which the land is left in fine condition for any other crop to follow. Also at page 171, Vol. II. same work, is an article from Mr. John Sandford, of New York, who says, "his business is to work, not to write," but he gives us his experience with the ruta baga in a very satisfactory manner; he planted three acres in drills on the 26th and 27th of June, hoed but twice, and the yield was 3,000 bushels, being 1,000 bushels per acre—he adds, that " he thinks they draw more nourishment from the atmosphere, and less from the ground than any other vegetable; leave the ground in finer condition, and cannot be too highly valued." He also adds, "let all raise according to his wants and means of feeding, depending on his own market, and omit raising a portion of other produce, which costs him five times as much, both in labor and land." The Rev. H. Colman obtained a premium in 1830 for his crop of 903 bushels per acre; he "thinks the labor not as much by one-third as required for the potato crop," and that " three years experience has increased their value very much, as food for either fatting or store cattle, in his estimation."

Mr. E. Tilden, of New Lebanon, who has a flock of 1,000 of the finest Saxony sheep, says, " we think ruta baga decidedly preferable to any other roots, and we raised about 3,000 bushels last season."

So we might go on to multiply without number, accounts of the great value of this excellent vegetable ; but let every one give it a trial for themselves, and I think I can safely predict, that having once made use of them, they will never omit having a good supply on hand. My method of raising the crop has been to have the ground in as mellow a state as possible, by a free use of the plough and harrow; then to throw it into ridges about thirty inches apart;

spread the manure in the furrows, then split the ridges, throwing it back again into the furrow and covering the manure. I prefer this plan of manuring to putting it on broadcast, for with the latter mode (without it should be very short) it interferes more or less with the drill, for as a matter of course, in ridging the ground after ploughing in the manure, you cannot avoid throwing it up again, which brings the manure on the top of the ridge. A less quantity will also answer, as the roots strike immediately into, and have the whole benefit of it. I have a very light roller for one horse, to which I attach the drill, which finishes the operation, as the roller going before the drill levels it sufficient^ for the seed. About the last of June I consider the proper time for putting them in, and I prefer doing it at two different times, about two weeks apart, as you will not then be so much hurried in working them, giving you time to gel through with the first planting before the next is ready— it is also much better to put the seed in the same day you ridge the ground—with the drill it takes about three-fourths of a pound of seed per acre. As soon as the plants ■are up, go through them with the cultivator, and when they are large enough to be safe from the fly, go over them with the hand hoe, thinning them from ten to twelve inches distance, and hoeing over the strip not worked by the harrow; keep the cultivator frequently at work and give them a second hand hoeing, so as not to allow a weed to start, and if the season is not very unfavorable, I will almost be willing to guarantee you at least 600 bushels per acre. Postpone gathering them as long as the season will permit, the early frost does not injure them. rVty plan has been for each man to pull two rows at a time, cutting off the smaller roots and top, and two of them throwing the roots together, in the intermediate furrow, making four rows together, which allows room for a cart to pass between in gathering them; they may either be kept in a cellar or buried in the field, as is often done with the potatoes—do not keep too warm, nor on the contrary, allow them to be frozen, and they will be firm and good until May.

Tn feeding, I cut them with a knife made by two blades crossing each other at right angles, fixed on a long handle, which makes very expeditious work, and is superior to anj' of the many machines I have ever seen invented for that purpose. Many object to feeding them to milch cows on account of imparting to the butter an unpleasant taste; if given to them but. once a day there is no danger of that being the case, at least I have never found it so.

Beside the saving to your corn crib you will also find your stock looking much better from the use of them, as it keeps them in a much more healthy state than when confined the whole winter on dry food, they also eat their

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hay and oiher provender much better from having a change.

The sugar beet, mangel wurtzel, carrot, potato, and many others of this valuable family, all have their advocates and all are excellent, only be sure to raise some of them, which ever j t ou prefer. I have given rny experience with my favorite, and shall be gratified if I can induce some who have never yet done it, to give them a trial.

If you do not wish to go to the expense of a drill, you can put them in very expeditiously, by levelling the ridge with a rake, making a small furrow with a stick, and sprinkling the seed in it from a bottle, having a quill through the cork, which can be regulated by the finger being kept on it, and then covered with the back of the rake.— Delaware Journal.

From the Baltimore American. SCARLATINA—SCARLET FEVER.

As this intractable disease, in its most malignant form, has extensively prevailed during the past winter, and still continues its progress, in our city, causing many tears to flow from agonized parents, who have had their darling little

ones suddenly snatched from them by its ruthless grasp, I would call the attention of those, whose homes have not yet been made desolate by its inroads, to the following prophylatic or preventive measure, which, among practitioners of medicine in Germany, has been used with such eminent success, but which in this country, I believe, is scarcely known, out of the profession.

Dissolve three grains of the Extract of Belladonna in one ounce of cinnamon water (triturated together in a mortar) and of this solution, give three drops in a little sugar and water, to a child one year old, once a day, increasing the dose one drop for every additional year in the age of the patient. In this minute dose it can do no possible injury, whilst the mass of evidence in favor of its complete prophylatic power, is conclusive.

Impelled by a desire to stay the further progress of this fatal epidemic, it would afford me much satisfaction to have the above information disseminated, and it would be subserving the cause of humanity, lo allow it a corner in the columns of your valuable sheet.

Medicus.

Baltimore, March 23, 1844.

For the Southern Planter. Spade labor, the perfection of good Husbandry"

THE BOSTON CENTRE-DRAGHT PLOUGH,

PROOTY & MAERS' SELF-SHARPENING PATENT.

Mr. Editor, —I send you above a cut of this much and highly.approved plough, with new gearing, the invention of the Patentees, obtained after much labor and many experiments. By it, such a degree of power and steadiness of draught is communicated, that in a soil free from obstructions, it requires no one to guide it; a lad being sufficient to turn it m and out at. the ends of the land, performing the most perfect work: the furrow, both in width and depth, is determined by the wheel and gearing at the

head of the plough, to the greatest exactness, and at a reduction of labor, both to man and team, amounting to about fifty per cent. By the present arrangement, the beam is secured from breaking: while the draught, extending back beyond the standard, gives a degree of pressure sufficient to keep ihe plough in the ground, in case of obstruction. The wheel affixed to the beam on its land side, enables the ploughman to carry the last or cleaning furrow without difficulty, as the wheel then passes

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along the open furrow to the left—an important consideration in ridge work. By elevating or depressing the rod by means of the hand screw on the top of the arc, the plough can be made to follow the team, whether large or small horses, mules, or oxen, without the troublesome and uncertain mode of altering the backhands.

This plough when at work must not be set upright on the land side, but be permitted to take a bias or leaning towards the furrow, as when standing on a floor or level ground, by which the soil will be broken up, and turned completely over, with the precision of the spade. Should the point work loose, unscrew the share-bolt, and insert a small piece of paper under the neck of the point on the land side of the socket, and screw up tight. The coulter must be set in exact line with the land side of the plough from the point upwards, and on no account are its services ever to be dispensed with; yet it need not extend lower than within three or four inches of the point of the plough ; it is enough if the surface of the land be cut three or four inches deep; the remainder of the furrow-slice breaking up easier than it can be cut. If the plough goes too much on the point, the furrow-slice will not fall completely over, but be set too much on edge; in that case depress the rod by loosening the hand screw on the top of the arc, tightening it by means of the nut underneath ; and then the wheel must be raised—care being taken that no more pressure be thrown upon it than just enough to keep it on the ground—any depth, from three to ten inches, may be carried with the greatest regularity, without regard to the inequality of the surface of the land, or the extra aid of the ploughman. To change it from a two-horse to a three-horse-abreast team, loosen the nut of the main bolt that the beam may turn on it; turn back the inside nut of the furrow handle, and draw up the handle by means of the outside nut, until the end of the beam is parallel with the land side of the plough, and shows no landing; then lighten the main bolt, set the coulter straight with the landside of the plough, place the rod in the notch on the land side of the beam, and bring it to the extent of the arc on the same side. To change it from a three-horse to a two-horee plough, loosen the main bolt, draw back the outside nut of the furrow handle, and bring out the handle by means of the inside nut, until the end of the beam shows a landing of an inch and a quarter; then tighten the main bolt, set the coulter in a line with the land side; place the rod in the middle notch on the furrow side of the coulter, and bring it to the centre of the arc.

For a single or tandem team place the. rod in the notch on the furrow side of the beam, and bring it to the extent of the arc on that side. More or less land to the sixteenth of an inch can be given or taken, by changing the direc-

tion of the rod to the right or left. From fifty to sixty acres of land, according to the nature of the soil, may be ploughed with one point and shave, at the charge of about one cent per acre for blacksmith's bill. The old points make good wedges for splitting wood.

These ploughs, of several sizes and superior workmanship, may be obtained of D. O. Prouty, at his Horticultural and Agricultural Seed and Implement Warehouse, 176 Market Street, Philadelphia.

D. O. Prouty.

We are inclined to believe that this plough deserves all the reputation it has acquired at the North, and we have, therefore, made arrangements with the patentees for a constant supply of them.

SUCKERING CORN.

Mr. Editor: Sir, —I have seen in your excellent paper repeated inquiries, whether by pulling off the suckers, the crop of corn is increased or diminished. To the farmer the inquiry is of considerable importance. Frequently it may make to him a difference of from five to ten bushels of corn to the acre, and that will well pay his annual subscription for your paper.

The effect of cutting or pulling off the suckers I have observed for many years, in different parts of my garden. I have tried both ways in the same season. Where I cut or pulled off the suckers the main stalk appeared not to be injured, but the ear would be short, with two or three inches of the cob without a kernel of corn. This was the- case where there were two ears upon the stalk. Where the suckers were left to grow, the ears of corn, much more generally, were filled and rounded off to the top of the cob with kernels; and the ears were longer than where the suckers were taken off. Even the small ear, in the case of two upon a stalk, was completely filled out to the top of the ear, especially when the season was favorable.

It has been supposed that the pulling or cutting off the suckers injured the roots or the main stalk. I think that does not account for the main injury done to the crop. I have observed that the tassel of the main stalk, some time before the ear has grown to the full length, has become dry and destitute of pollen, which is necessary to the formation of every kernel of corn. The sucker comes up with a fresh supply of pollen at the time that the supply from the main stalk has ceased. Then, as long as there is silk on the end of the ear, there is pollen, to come in contact with it from the tassel on the sucker, and the kernels are formed and matured to the tip of the ear.

In the growth of the sucker, with the tassel and pollen to supply the deficiency by the failure

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of the main stalk, the design is perfect and beautiful. It teaches the cultivator, the laborer, to feel that in his toil he is walking with God.

Some of jour readers, I observe, are often inquiring for information upon various topics in agriculture. I am glad that there are so many intelligent men in the community giving their attention to a pursuit not only conducive to health, good morals, and true happiness, but exceedingly interesting to the most cultivated as well as those less so.

If. it be the object of the cultivator to raise as much grain as he can, he will let the suckers grow. Then the ears, instead of being dwindled to a point, with a long piece of naked cob, will be well filled. This year, in particular, the pollen from the suckers is wanted to continue the growth of the ear. As soon as the tassels fail to sprinkle upon the silk the golden dust, the growth of the ear is stopped.

If these remarks, shall assist the farmer to add to his gamer a few bushels of grain, it will be of more value to him than the price of the grain, or that, sum at interest. And it may contribute something to incite an increased gratitude to the God of the harvest.

Yours, truly, I. Richardson.

Hingham, August 10, 1843.

The Hon. Mr. Richardson has our thanks for his ingenious explanation of the cause of injury to corn plants when the suckers are plucked off. We have much evidence that plucking off the suckers before the ear is filled is highly injurious to the grain, and the reason suggested above may be the principal one.

It seems reasonable, also, to suppose that all the juices in every branch of the stalk are needed to fill out the ear and that draughts are made on every part at the time of filling. The tops should not be cut till the ear is somewhat hardened.

The pollen of the top is absolutely necessary to fill up the ear as we may see when one stalk only stands in a field. The ears on that stalk are never half filled for there was not pollen enough flying about to impregnate the silk.

But we had supposed that in a large field there would always be a sufficient supply for every thread of silk on the ear. We hope some more of our critical observers will look into this subject at this time, and see if a want of pollen is the cause of the long snouts, of uncovered cob at the top of the ear.— Mass. Ploughman.

For the Southern Planter.

CONTRIBUTIONS FROM A SOUTHERN PLANTER.

Mr. Editor, —Chiefly " to set a good example" I propose to send you from time to time scraps of information, which appear to me to be

useful to the farmer, giving you full permission to alter, amend, strike out, or indefinitely postpone, as to you may appear proper. I know many men, who have the agricultural knowledge and the rhetorical ability to communicate that knowledge, who could enrich the valuable columns of your excellent journal, by even an occasional contribution, and who yet suffer their "light to be hid under a bushel." Now, I am a "plain plantation man," (as the wags say of a very worthy and industrious public officer of my acquaintance,) and while I can impart no great light myself, I have thought that I might at least show my desire to aid you by now and then sending you memoranda of what I learn from others^or may have been taught by expe-perience. And as my name will carry no weight with it you will, I hope, allow me to communicate anonymously. I will add that what I send you will be chiefly what I learn from experienced gentlemen. '

Solving Clover and Grass Seedivith Oats. —The propriety of sowing grass and clover with oats is doubted by many : they say, that the clover and grass being young when you cut your oats, it can't stand the heat of the then scorching sun and will "die out." This is often the fact.— But the evil may be remedied : when you sow your oats, let a sower of clover seed follow immediately after the person sowing oats, and sow the clover seed before you harrow or drag in your oats; or it would be better, if you think the seed will be covered too deep by the drag, to sow after the drag, and then draw a bush over the land ; though 1 think there is no necessity for this double dragging or bushing. Another important matter to be attended to— plaster your land immediately after cutting the oats, and in forty-nine times out of fifty you will have a good stand of clover and grass. The harrowing or bushing is very important after sowing herds-grass seed. The root of this seed is a long wiry root, and lying on the ground, will be killed by the heat of the sun. The seed ought to be very lightly covered.

Something more about Clover and Grass, Hay, <Sj-c. —If you wish to make a meadow, it seems to be the generally received opinion that you must sow your grass seed in autumn. The late Mr. Richard N. Venable (a great haymaker) told me that from the 20th August to 20th of September was the proper time to commence a meadow, so that the seed could become firmly rooted in the ground before winter, and you could cut a small crop of hay in the succeeding year. But generally you desire to make your meadow where there is a crop growing in August and September ; for it is very important if not absolutely necessary to clean your land by corn, tobacco or some good hoe-crop. Even when you put your land down in wheat, even as late as November, you may then be successful

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in making meadows. Many, however, wish to make a meadow in land to be put in oats. If the plan proposed in this paper is adopted you will succeed.

But, says neighbor B., I can't afford to buy grass seed, clover seed, plaster, &c. Yes, that's just what every one tells us who spend many hours of every day in singing Jerimiads over Old Virginia—telling you their lands were "born poor"—that you can't make clover and grass grow on our hills (which you have gutted by a most killing mode of cultivation.) Now, my friend set. down and make some arithmetical calculations. Suppose you give ten dollars per bushel for clover seed: that will sow, say, eight acres of land or less: sow it on your best tobacco lot: don't let your sheep, hogs, &c. eat it up root and all directly after you cut your wheat: keep every thing off one year: you may then cut hay enough to sell if you can, or feed your horses, and save corn enough to pay for five bushels of clover seed—and then in the improvement of your land you pay for your seed twice over. No, sir, if you will calmly set down and calculate what you make by clovering and otherwise improving your land, (by plaster, &c.) you can afford to buy clover seed at twenty dollars per bushel. But excuse this episode; I have been reading one of John Randolph's speeches, hence my " matters and things in general."

In sowing herdsgrass, don't be afraid of sowing too thick. Dr. Venable, of Mecklenburg, (I give the name, because he is known to be a great man for grass,) pursues the following method in sowing: he cuts his hay when the grass seed is quite ripe; stacks it. or puts it in the barn; threshes out the seed in December, and beginning on the first snow after Christmas, he sows on every snow, by driving the wagon over his wheat land, and sowing from the hind part of the wagon the seed in the chaff so thick that the snow is black with the chaff. Now, it would appear from the very large crops of hay which the Doctor makes, that his is a good way of sowing seed. But I have no doubt that it would be better to get the seed out cleaner.— This sowing seed in the chaff is not so sure a method as sowing clean seed. " Speaking of a gun," (as the story goes) I see some one called on Dr. V. to give your reades his views on the "cultivation of the grasses from the seed to the scythe." Mr. Editor, I second that motion.— Don't let the Doctor off.

It is well known that a herdsgrass turf is one of the best precursors of tobacco; indeed many planters think it better than a good manuring from the farm-pen. One of the finest crops of tobacco I ever knew (made by the late Mr. Eg-gleston, of Cumberland,) grew on a field well-set with herdsgrass. He sowed the field with plaster (very good idea, by the way, the plaster

hastening the decomposition of the turf,) and turned over (and under) the turf. I don't think the old gentleman put any manure. But you must, in order to have the full benefit of the herds grass turf, let your tobacco lots remain in grass two or three 3'ears. Have about five tobacco scenes or shifts; sow down your grass seed on your wheat thick—very thick ; sow about a bushel to the acre of plaster in broken doses (half a bushel at a time); subscribe to and pay for the Southern Planter, and you will ceteris paribus, (which, by a free translation, means, attend faithfully in other respects to your crop,) have a good crop of tobacco.

Lights under a Bushel and all that sort 0'thing. — Have you ever been, Mr. Editor, to a Clay Club or a Democratic Association 1 You know the President or some member rises and says a good deal about " a gentleman who is present, who is a gallant and valiant soldier in the great cause (nothing less with both parties than "the cause of Civil Liberty, Constitutional Freedom," &c. &c.) in which we have enlisted," and so on,—and after lauding the aforesaid "soldier," the President requests the meeting to "unite with him in calling on Mr. Demosthenes Pitt to address the meeting," and the meeting of course-wont let Mr. D. P. off, and a speech they have. If nothing else is accomplished we are fast becoming a nation of orators, and no doubt at this moment while I am scribbling by my fireside some "village Hampden" is eloquently urging the sovereigns to unite in defence of our free institutions. As I am very sure, from what the papers tell me, that by voting for either of the candidates I shall vote for a second Washington, and as I am assured from these statements that the election of either will redound to the glory, and happiness, and all that sort of thing of the country, I feel a greater interest in the cause of agriculture than that of politics. Let us imagine me to be President(!!) of a Virginia Agricultural Club, and it at this moment in session. I could say "I know gentlemen who can contribute greatly to advance the Great Cause of Agriculture, by giving the public (through the respectable medium of the ' Planter') the benefits of the vast amount of useful knowledge which they have at their command—whom I know to be patriots—from whose sound, practical and experienced minds we might receive valuable information—who could verify, by teaching others, how to ' make two blades of grass grow where only one grew before,' and thus (Swift thought) would do more essential service to the country, than the xuhole race of politicians put together.'' I say, I know such men, and with your permission and begging their pardon for the liberty I am taking, I ask the members of the Great Agricultural Club in Virginia to unite with me in calling these gentlemen out to let us hear from them through the Planter. There is

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Mr. John R. Edmunds, of Halifax, who can use his pen admirably—is an excellent farmer, I learn. I call on Mr. Edmunds for an essay or essays " on making and applying manures." I do not know that Mr. E. has ever appeared in the agricultural prints; but it is very probable he has unpublished memoranda on various farming operations. Let us hear also from " Old Flood," (no disrespect is meant in thus designating J. Flood Edmunds, Esq. of Charlotte.) He's "Great" in every thing relating to tobacco. Couldn't you get Mr. Richard or Mr. John Sampson to give you something on the " Wheat culture." And my most worthy friend Ed. Hicks, of Brunswick—we'll take an essay from him on " Fruit," from the strawberry up to pippins and peaches.

"South Side," May 15, 1844.

We rise to second the call of our friend from the " South Side." This idea of " calling gentlemen out" is a most capital one, and we sincerely hope that it will be acted on by others of our subscribers, who may know gentlemen particularly qualified to impart information upon any pecular subject. Gentlemen so called on must, in common decency, take pen in hand, at least to return thanks for the compliment, and when they get at it, they will find it just as easy to comply with the call, as to apologise for not doing so. If in this way we can arouse the slumbering talent of Virginia, we believe we should indeed do more for the honor and interest of the State than we could effect in any other way.

What gentleman is there, that thus politely requested to impart to others the knowledge derived from superior education, greater natural endowments, or a more extended experience, could find it in his heart to withhold it? The trouble of writing a few pages can surely be no bar to the great general good which may thus be effected, and we repeat, we hope that this example of calling gentlemen out may be generally and judiciously followed. We will take especial care that the person addressed, whether a subscriber or not, shall receive the paper, and have his attention called particularly to the article. We would always prefer that such a call should be made over a real signature. In this particular case, we will vouch for the identity and standing of our "South Side" correspondent, who is well known to us and our readers.

then keep without salt; and the Irish have adopted, with success, a similar mode for exportation to the East Indies.

The Arabs melt their butter over a slow fire, which expeb all the watery particles; it will Vol. IV.^20

GAPES IN CHICKENS.

The following is an extract from a new American work on poultry, entitled, "The American Poultry Book," by M. R. Cock; published in New York by Harper & Brothers, 1843 :

The diseases of the common fowl are, in this climate, few in number, and are usually controlled by adequate treatment. They may be divided into those which occur to the chicken, and those only known in the adult fowl.

1. Diseases in the Young. —The most destructive is what is called the gapes. This is known by the following symptoms: A few days after the chick is hatched, instead of running about in a lively manner, it droops and becomes stupid and stationary. It frequently raises its head and gasps as if for want of breath. From this symptom the disease is called the gapes. This is accompanied by frequent and violent sneezing. If the disease is allowed to run on, this state continues for a week or ten days, when the chick dies, quite emaciated. There is usually much fever, and the lip of the tongue becomes white and homy. The cause of this disease is the presence of small red worms, called fasciola tracker, in the windpipe.

Cure. —The most common remedy, and, as I think, the most absurd, is the introduction of a whole pepper-corn down the throat. This is varied by mixing ground pepper with butter, and forcing it down the throat. This is generally supposed to burn out the disease; it may do that, but, as far as my experience goes, it burns out the chicken with it. Another remedy, which may act as a preventive, comes recommended on more reasonable grounds. It consists in mixing up a small quantity of powdered asafoetida with Indian meal. As this is an unpleasant material to handle, the better way is to put a small quantity in a bag, and put it into the trough of water. I have been assured by those who have tried it that their chickens never have the gapes. Soap mixed with the food, or Indian meal mixed up with soap-suds, has also been highly recommended. The only sure and certain remedy is to resort to a simple operation. Take a small feather and strip off the web, except about an inch and a half at the tip; wet the end and turn it back. Let a person hold the chicken on its back, extending the legs.— The operator takes hold' of the head of the chicken with his left hand, placing the thumb and fore finger on each side of the bill, so as to hold the mouth open. Draw the neck out gently, but firmly. Introduce the feather over the tongue,

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and watch when the chicken breathes, which opens the windpipe; then enter it quick, and do not be afraid after the point is entered. Push down gently two or three inches, and then withdraw the feather, turning it with a cork-screw motion ; the worms will follow, and others will be loosened by sneezing. This may be repeated once more, but not oftener; the chicken may then be released, and in nine cases out of ten is cured immediately. ]f they should gape the next, day, repeat the operation.

The cause of the appearance of these parasitic worms is not clearly known. They are more common in some districts than in others, and in certain seasons; very wet and variable seasons are supposed to be favorable to their production. Upon this principle, many good hen-housewives give the chickens nothing but dry food ; and I think I have observed less of this disease when the food was given in this state, and water only allowed to the hen at brief intervals during the day.

About three weeks or a month from the shell, chickens are affected with another disease known under the name of chip. The symptoms are as follows: the chicken sits in a crouching position, with its feathers drooping about it, appears reluctant or unable to move, and keeps up a melancholy chipping, as if in pain. I presume that this is a catarrh, accompanied by much fever. The only treatment I have found efficacious was to put them into some warm place, and allow them no food for twenty-four hours. If the disease was not too far advanced, they would, at the end of this time, become lively, and eat readily. Chickens with this disease should be shut up for some days, and only let out in warm, dry weather.

REPORT OF DR. LEE, OF BUFFALO. When in the city of Albany, a short time since, we were fortunate enough to make the acquaintance of Dr. Daniel Lee, of Buffalo, and to his kindness and attention we are indebted for the enjoyment of one of the most pleasant hours of our trip. The Doctor has lately made a considerable figure as an agricultural writer, and to our mind, he is one of the most ingenious and original thinkers that has turned his mind to this subject, which, from a late but proper appreciation of its importance, is fast monopolizing the talent of the civilised world. Like all great geniuses, the Doctor, it must be confessed, is a little, the least bit possible, of a hobby rider, but many of his views are profound and well worthy the attention of the practical agriculturist. We make the following extract from a report, bearing the nervous im-

press of his pen, to the last New York Legislature, of which the Doctor was a member, upon the subject of that part of the Governor's message relating to agriculture:

From considerable experience, much study and reflection, your committee are of the opinion that the 11,00^,000 acres of cultivated lands in this Slate might be made to yield, wiihout any additional expense, an average of three dollars per acre more of the valuable fruits of the earth, than they now do. In other words, the same labor, which is now measurably lost through ignorance of the laws of nature, through inattention to the constituent elements of all cultivated plants, and of the affinities that govern their chemical and organic combinations, in practical agriculture, might by the aid of plain and available science, secure to our farmers ten dollars' worth of agricultural producls, where they now get but seven dollars' worth. For what purpose does the husbandman toil so hard throughout the year? Is it not to transform certain elements of earth, air and water, into cultivated plants; and these again into domestic animals, beef, pork, mutton, butter, cheese and wool? And what are these elements of earth, air and water, which the well or ill-applied labor of the farmer changes into wheat and oiher grain, into grass and roots? Where is the practical agriculturist to find the raw material of one good ripe wheat plant; and how must the necessary ingredients be combined, and applied to the soil, so as to realize the largest crop at the least expense 1

To say nothing of the gaseous and earthy elements necessary to make good firm wheat straw, we now take over 12,000,000 bushels of the raw material of wheat bread from our fields every year, and never stop to inquire whether this system of culture will or will not rob our wheat lands of all their bread-making elements. Not one particle in a thousand of the elements of bread, after entering human mouths, ever finds its way back again to the field from whence it was taken. If we are certain that the benevolent Author of our being will create anew, annually, 12,000,000 bushels of those particular-ingredients which make the amount of wheat, and will keep good all the elements of straw not returned after the harvest, then perhaps our fields may not suffer from continuous cropping without renovation. But Heaven will not create one particle of matter for our especial benefit, though the two and a half millions of people in New York shall waste the raw material of 50,000,000 bushels of grain every year, until they shall have no more to waste.

To prevent farther loss, and regain all the fertilizing elements taken from our cultivated lands since their first settlement, are objects of great public importance. Man is indebted to

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agricultural science for the invaluable discover}' that not far from 97 per cent, of all the elements of cultivated plants exist in the air in exhaust-less quantities. These are carbon, nitrogen, I oxygen and hydrogen, the two latter forming! water. The combustion of wood and coal, the respiration of all animals, fermentation and the decomposition of all organic matter throw into the atmosphere a vast amount of the ingredients necessary for the reconstruction of vegetables and animals. To say nothing of water and its elements, which play an important part in all organic structures, carbon is the largest and most expensive element in the production of plants and domestic animals. It is the basis of vegetable mould—" the fat of the land"—and, combined with the constituents of water, forms veritable fat and butter. It is some consolation to know that there are no less than seven tons of pure carbon diffused through the air over every acre of land, whether barren or fertile, upon the habitable globe.

The earthy part of the wheat plant forming less than three per cent, of its solid substance, consists of silica, (flint,) lime, potash, soda, magnesia, alumina, (the basis of clay) chlorine, sulphur, phosphorus, and a trace of iron. All these minerals are indispensable to the production of one good wheat plant. Hence, if a farmer had an abundance of all other elements in his field to grow forty bushels of wheat on an acre, and it should be destitute of phosphorus, that defect would be fatal to the crop. There is good reason to believe that if a practical wheat grower will restore to his fields every year all the raw material of that bread-bearing plant, a large crop can be harvested from the same soil year after year, as well as to let it lie idle, or to cultivate other grain for three or four years and then grow wheat again. Persons unacquainted with the very compound nature of wheat are apt to imagine that the application of one fertilizing element, lime for instance, ought to suffice to produce a good crop. They are ignorant of the fact that every kernel and stern of wheat ha3 twelve other indispensable ingredients in its composition. Millions of days of hard labor are annually thrown away in New York alone, in a vain attempt to transmute one mineral into another. Our farmers are searching for some strange philosopher's stone that will change lime into potash, potash into magnesia, magnesia into flint, flint into cla}', clay into sulphur, sulphur into iron, iron into phosphorus, phosphorus into nitrogen, niirogen into carbon, and carbon into oxygen. When a man can make the half of a thing equal to the whole, then he may raise a good crop of wheat where the soil lacks one-half of the elements of that grain.

Your committee believe it practicable to increase the annual products of our present rural

industry 32} per cent, without the aid of one dollar of additional capital; that is, they believe that full one-third of all agricultural labor is literally thrown away by its misapplication. The uniform laws of nature will not vary nor accommodate the needless ignorance of man.— Hence it follows that man must apply his labor in strict conformity to the unerring laws that govern the changes of matter, or toil on through life giving two days work for those necessaries and comforts, which an understanding of the laws of nature would have secured to him in exchange for one day's work. The whole doctrine of eternal hard work and penurious living as the best means of acquiring wealih or the comforts of life, your committee deem unsound. The inevitable effect of this popular system is to degrade and brutify, rather than to elevate our race. Mere muscular labor, mere mechanical power, no matter how great its force, without adequate knowledge to guide and direct it, is far more likely to act wrong than right, for the simple reason that there are five icrong ways to do almost every thing, where there is one right way.

All men have intellectual organs that require development and peculiar nourishment, not less than stomachs need daily food. Mas not the Creator of man manifested his approbation of human efforts to acquire wisdom, even worldly wisdom, by making the ignorant in all climes, and in all ages of the world, the servants of the loise ?

A knowledge of the arts of ploughing, sowing and reaping may do for the purpose of wearing out a productive farm, but something more is necessary to enable its owner to give back annually to each of his cultivated fields the precise elements removed by the harvest, and that too at the least possible expense.

Suppose a farmer now cultivates six acres of land in wheat, to harvest 11 bushels, how is he to manage so as to grow 133 bushels at the same expense? If he can raise 33£ bushels per acre on four acres, that will give him the amount desired and save the whole cost of cultivating two acres of land. This saving may be set down at $8 per acre, which will give $16 surplus to be expended in purchasing the raw material to produce the extra 66 bushels of wheat on the four acres to be culuvated by a new process. As about 94 per cent, of ripe wheat plants consist of carbon and water, charcoal must be an important element in fertilizing the soil. Of the other 6 per cent, about one-half is niirogen, and the other moiety is made up of silica, potash, soda, magnesia, alumina, phosphorus, sulphur, chlorine, and a trace of iron. Let the wheat grower take 100 bushels of charcoal, grind it fine in a bark mill or pulverize it well wiih flails on a ihreshinjr floor, and add thereto five bushels of ground plaster. This would not cost in most

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farming districts in this State over $7, and if the coal and gypsum be placed in a vat or large tub and saturated with the urine of cattle, or partly moistened with the liquid excretions of the human species, and have five bushels of leached ashes mixed with the mass, it will contain all the elements of 133 bushels of good wheat. In case the urine can not be had, the addition of four bushels of salt will give all the soda and chlorine that is needed, while the ashes will furnish all the potash, silica and magnesia required. The plaster will yield the sulphur and lime, and a bushel of bone dust will give the phosphorus. A little copperas will supply the necessary iron, and the charcoal will not only yield carbon, but it will also absorb ammonia, always found in rain water when it comes from the clouds.

All these constituents of wheat can be best applied to the soil before sowing the seed ; but a top dressing of a compound of coal, plaster, ashes and salt, moistened with whatever urine can be collected, may be applied to winter or spring wheat in April or May, with signal benefit to the crop. Deep ploughing and thorough draining are important aids in wheat culture, for reasons which your committee will not stop to explain.

The liberal use of freshly burned lime is very beneficial by the way of correcting any acidity of soil; and also by absorbing carbonic acid from the air, to be given up to the roots of plants, and thereby promote their growth. A pint of human urine contains ammonia enough to supply a bushel of wheat with all the nitrogen it needs. And it is worthy of remark that wheat well supplied with nitrogen in ammonia, will contain from ten to twenty per cent, more gluten than it would if it lacked that element, while the wheat that abounds in gluten will make from seven to fifteen per cent, more good bread than the same quantity of flour composed almost entirety of starch. In Flanders farmers pay forty shillings, or nearly ten dollars a year for the urine of a single cow for that length of time, to be used in the culture of wheat and other crops. Common sense would seem to teach every agriculturist that he should restore to his fields every particle of the liquid and solid excretions of all animals that feed upon his crops.

A little study of the science of animal physiology would convince every practical farmer that not far from one-third of all the grass, hay, roots, and grain that enters the mouths of his domestic animals is needlessly lost, owing to some removeable defect in their organic structure Less than one-half of the solid matter taken into their stomachs is voided by the bowels and kidney. On an average, more than three-fourths of all the carbon that exists in all the food of respiratory animals escapes through the lungs. The action of these important organs, which

never ceases night or day, governs the elaboration of muscle, fat, milk, and wool, in such domestic animals as ate kept for their strength, as the horse and ox ; their milk, as the cow ; their flesh and fat, as the pig; and their wool, as the sheep.

A RECIPE FOR HOUSEKEEPERS.

To make blue wash for walls, get a pound of blue vitriol from a drug store, and have it powdered in a mortar. Provide also two quarts of lime. Take six cents worth of glue, boil it in a quart of soft water till thoroughly dissolved. Put the powdered vitriol in a wooden bucket, and when the glue water is cold, pour it on the vitriol, mix and stir it well. When the vitriol is dissolved in the glue water, stir in by degrees the two quarts of lime. Then try the tint of the mixture by dipping a piece of white paper into it, and when it dries you can judge if it is the color you want. It should be a clear, beautiful blue, if too pale, stir in a little more powdered vitriol. It is well to provide an extra quantity of each of the articles, in case a little more of one or the other should be required upon trial of the color.— American Farmer.

For the Southern Planter. GREEN CROPS INTENDED FOR IMPROVEMENT.

Mr. Editor, —I have been a subscriber to your valuable paper from its infancy, and I would not be debarred from a regular perusal of its contents for five times the price of subscription.— The "Southern Planter" has certainly done more towards arresting the tide of emigration from Virginia to the howling wilderness of the western world, than all the other means resorted to by our statesmen and patriots. The love of systematic improvement inspired by the circulation of your useful and instructive periodical, will prove the strongest link in the chain which binds our citizens to their native soil.

Persevere, Mr. Editor; your unwavering energy and untiring devotion to inspire us with a zeal for the improvement of our native land, will one day be properly appreciated, and will secure for you an everlasting monument of gratitude.

Being a young and inexperienced farmer, I am incompetent to give advice to the agricultural world, but I seek to improve my farm so as to make a decent living from it, through the medium of the Planter, notwithstanding the contemptible light in which "book farming" is held by some of my neighbors, whose heads have grown grey in washing away their soil by the old-fashioned practice of ploughing their land up and down hill.

There is another practice which, in my opi-

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nion, much retards the tide of improvement in this county; I mean the plan of applying all the manure to our tobacco lots. At any rate, I am determined to try the experiment of keeping up my tobacco land by seeding down oats wiih clover, and applying my manure to my corn and wheat field. I have seeded down one lot in oats, about two bushels to the acre; next spring, I shall put the same lot in oats and clover. Will you or some of j'our practical correspondents be kind enough to give me some instructions 1 I arn advised by some to roll and plough the oats under as soon as the grain is

properly matured; others think they should be rolled and permitted to remain as a protection to the land from the scorching summer's sun : the latter opinion I am disposed to adopt; nature herself seems to dictate that our land should be covered in summer with vegetation. If I am wrong, I shall be obliged to your correspondents to controvert my opinions, and I am ready to yield them to well established facts, or substantial arguments.

Yours, respectfully,

T. B. Hamlin. Hampstead, Dinwiddle Co., Va.

AN ORNAMENTAL FARM HOUSE

We are especially anxious to introduce some improvement in the rural architecture of Virginia. The contrast between the tasty cottages of the North and the sombre gloom of our own country dwellings, is too striking to be agreeable to a Southern eye ; and we shall labor unceasingly until we dot our smiling fields with homesteads more congenial to their verdant aspect, than the unpainted, time-worn dwellings, that disfigure them now. In the first place, there is lack of taste in the shape of our buildings, that 18, considering the progress we have made in the arts, truly astonishing. The unbroken uniformity of wall that every where meets the eye, is extremely unpleasing. When a house is to be erected, it i.s just about as cheap to build it in one shape a:-s another, and we would heartily

recommend to any gentleman about to erect a country dwelling, before he agrees with the village carpenter for a four-sided box, to consult Mr. Downing's new work on " Cottage Residences," from which the cut above is copied.— He will readily perceive from the sketches he will find there how very pleasing to the eye are properly proportioned projections and irregularities. By the exercise of a little taste, he may, for the same money that would build a shapeless, unsightly mass, erect a tasty, charming cottage, the just and beautiful proportions of which will delight the eye of every beholder, even without the aid of foreign ornament. In such a house, the wife and the daughter will take an honest pride, and soon a thousand evidences of female taste will ornament and adorn

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it, and it will be to the husband and the father a fit temple in which to enshrine those holy domestic lies, which are the boast and the happiness of our people.

A few weeks since, we were indebted to the politeness of the hospitable owner for an inspection of one of the most elegant villas that we ever beheld. It is situated on the banks of the time-honored Hudson, and the beauty of the prospect is only equalled by the elegance and magnificence of the building. It is built in the Gothic style, and the exterior is as striking as the interior is convenient and elegant. An inch added to or substracted from any part would destroy the proportions and unity of the whole.— This splendid mansion was erected at a cost of sixteen thousand dollars, whilst many a gentleman in Virginia has paid twenty thousand for a building that in point of architecture was hardly fit for the eye of a Hottentot. We hope to be enabled shortly to obtain a cut that will afford our readers an idea of the exterior appearance of this elegant mansion ; in the mean time, we will furnish such of our friends as may entertain the idea of erecting a handsome dwelling with the address of the architect: it. is, "Alexander I. Davis, Esq.. 93 Merchants Exchange, New York." Mr. Davis, we understand, would be pleased to have an opportunity of displaying his unrivalled powers either in furnishing designs, or in erecting a building in Virginia, and we believe that even in a pecuniary way, any gentleman would consult his own interest in engaging him.

Mr. Downing accompanies the cut we have furnished with the following judicious and appropriate remarks:

In designing this farm house, we have had two objects in view ; first, to offer to the large class of intelligent farmers a plan of a house of moderate size, somewhat adapted in internal accommodation to their peculiar wants; and secondly, to give to the exterior, at little additional cost, some architectural beauty. The first object, it is evident, must ever be the principal one in a farmer's dwelling, and therefore every thing should yield to such an interior arrangement as will give the greatest amount of comfort, and the maximum of convenience, in performing indoor labor. But beyond this, there is no reason why the dwelling houses of our respectable farmers should not display some evidences of taste, as well as those of professional men, or persons in more affluent circumstances. The farmers are really the most independent men in our

community, as their wealth is less liable to fluctuation than that of any other class; and if the amount they wish to expend upon a dwelling, be less than that within the means of others, they are generally able, on the other hand, by having abundance of stone or timber on their own premises, to build at a greatly reduced cost. By bestowing some degree of ornament on farm houses, we shall hope to increase the interest and attachment, which the farmer and his family have for their home, and thereby to improve his social and domestic slate. A man who is content to live in a clumsy, badly contrived, and uncouth habitation, will generally be found to care lit lie for his home, or to have in his heart but a scanty flow of general domestic sympathies. This love of home, and wiih it all the tender affections bound up in that endearing word, will be sure to grow with every step we take to add to its comforts, or increase iis beauty ; and if we feel a species of affection for the goodly trees we have planted, which, growing along wiih us, seem like old and familiar friends, we must acknowledge a still greater attachment to a dwelling that we have built, and which becomes our own home, whether it be a coitage or a mansion, if there is an air of taste lurking about it. and breathing out from vine-covered porch or open window casement. We are especially anxious that the farmer should cultivate a taste for improving his home, including under this term his dwelling, and his garden or grounds, as we are confident that in so doing he will unconsciously open to himself and his family new sources of enjoyment, beyond such as are directly derived from their beauty and convenience. It is unquestionably true, that we learn to appreciate the beauty of nature, in proportion as we become familiar with the beauty of art. Now, although we do not expect farmers to possess a gallery of pictures or statuary, yet they have a scarcely less instructive field open to them while tastefully disposing their gardens and grounds, in studying the various developments of beauty that occur, and become familiar to the mind in these and all other employments, unfolding the order and harmony of a well regulated home. And we will venture to assert, that no person, however small his original knowledge, has followed these occupations thoughtfully for half a dozen years, without having his appreciation of the beauty of all nature, and especialfy the beauty of trees, forests, hills, and rivers, a thousand fold increased.

CARROTS FOR HORSES.

We were lately told by the proprietor of one of the most extensive livery stables in this city, that he has had an experience of several years in feeding the common yellow carrots to his horses, and that he considers them the most va-

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luable article for winter feed that he has ever used. He considers a peck of carrots and a peck of oats worth more for a horse than a bushel of oats alone; and for horses that are not constancy employed, the carrots alone are far preferable to oats. He would purchase carrots for his horses in preference to oats, even if the}- cost the same by the bushel; the price of carrots, however, is generally about half that of oats. His horses eat the carrots with a far better relish than oats ; so much so, that, if a peck of each are turned into the manger, they will eat all the carrots before they taste the oats.— When fed constantly on carrots, a horse will drink scarcely a pail of water in a week. The culture of carrots is recommended to our farmers as worthy of their attention.

Connecticut Farmers' Gazette.

Our own experience which has not been very limited fully sustains the opinion of the livery stable keeper in New Haven. As an alterative when green food is not to be had, and for its healthy influence upon the horse at all times, we have never seen the food that excelled the orange carrot. There is some trouble in raising and gathering a crop of this root, and we had hoped from the representations given of it a year or two ago that the white or Belgian carrot, whilst it was free from these objections, answered all the purposes of the long orange; but later developments have satisfied us that it is in every way inferior to its great original. There is no crop we know of that will add so much to the health and comfort of the farmer's stock as two or three well cultivated acres of carrots.

exhausting plan. Thus it is obvious, this statement being admitted, that one-fifth of the land now cultivated might, with a different system, produce as much as is at present grown in the country. It is also evident, on the supposition, that agriculture might be made five times more profitable, and assuredly the pleasure and honor of the profession might be signally augmented. Thorough manuring, deep ploughing, good seeds, timely planting, proper rotation of crops, and neat culture, would work wonders in our agriculture. The intellectual enjoyment and real moral of improved husbandry, are not to be overlooked. In consequence of the loveliness of a gaiden, the abode of the just in the next world is denominated paradise, a garden, or a heaven, and when it is remembered the whole farm can be made as interesting as a finely cultivated garden, there is something truly enchanting in the farmer's profession. A rich and well tilled field affords the most lovely scenes; but a poor field, with an indifferent crop, is certainly discouraging. Time will be when this subject will be duly appreciated with the farming world.

T. F.

From the Tennessee Agriculturist. SMALL FARMS.

Perhaps the greatest mistake in the farming of America, is the practice of attempting to cultivate more land than can be well tilled. This j system may be properly styled surface culture, and it has been the means of impoverishing more land than any other cause. In the great South-west, as well as in the South-east, thousands and thousands of acres have been worn out, and abandoned to the growth of broom sedge, by this ill-directed mode of procedure. It remains no longer doubtful, that a hundred bushels of corn can be grown upon the single acre of ground, and with little more labor in tillage than is required for cultivating an acre that yields but twelve or fifteen busheb. The secret of permanent success in every thing, is to do all well that is attempted. Five acres, well prepared, and well cultivated, will produce at least as much a3 twenty-five acres on the common

For the Southern Planter. HOG HAIR.

This is one of our best but most neglected

: manures. I made a fair experiment this sprirfg

'of its value. All good tobacco planters now-a-

days manure their plant beds. I (in imitation of

good planters) do so; and this spring I had hog

hair, from mj' last year's pen and killing, put on

my patch, extending over only about one-third

! of a ver}' large patch. The part covered with

the hog hair produced large and early plants,

while the remainder of the plant patch, though

a good yield, heing on good land, did nothing

like as well. Hog hair is a very good manure

for most vegetables.

Tobacco Stalks. —Instead of throwing these away after you have finished stripping your crop, put them in your stables and let them remain there till they are well rotted, and you will have the best sort of manure for your spring manuring of tobacco plant beds.

Wishing the Southern Planter and its Editor much success.

1 am, Mr. Editor,

Your obedient servant,

John Smith.

From the American Farmer. REMEDY FOR FILMS ON THE EYE.

A correspondent of the New England Farmer gives the following recipe for removing films from the eyes of animals, of the efficacy of which we have no doubt. Several years since a son of ours had films formed on his eyes,

THE SOUTHERN PLANTER

which we removed by dropping a small portion of molasses on his eye-lids when asleep, for three or four nights in succession. He was so restless, and resisted the application so resolutely when awake that we had to avail ourself of the opportunity afforded by his slumbers to apply the remedy:

" Perhaps all your readers do not know the easiest, as well as most effectual remedy for removing a film from the eye of an animal. It is simply to put a tea-spoonful of molasses on the eye-ball. I have relieved oxen, horses, cows and sheep in this manner, and know of no other equal to it."

Gknburn, Maine, Dec. 5, 1S43.

GOOD MILKING.

Be very cautious how you treat heifers when you first attempt to milk them. If you take the proper course they will not kick, not one in fifty.

In the first place tie them strong—then sit so close to them that if they raise the foot they cannot kick but merely press against you. Let your left arm always bear against the cow's leg, sit close, and milk gently; and always be cautious to see that the teats are not sore.

Massachusetts Ploughman.

For the Southern Planter.

HOW POOR MEN MAY MAKE POOR LAND RICH.

Mr. Editor, —I will now endeavor to redeem my promise, in your June number, of showing the mode by which poor men may improve their soils. No man can attain riches, either in land or money without the necessary implements with which to work. A frugal wife is the first and indispensable point; the others are a self-sharpening plough, which does as good work as any and at less than half the cost, besides the time saved in going to the shop; a three-hoed pulverizer, or common three-hoed plough inverted, so that three teeth leave but one furrow ; a good harrow; a horse rake to rake up pine beards, with which I can rake up more in one hour than I can with six men; a meadow rake to gather grass, that neither time r\oxhaij be wasted; a good cart and a mule, not a horse; no poor man should ever own one if he has to go in debt for a swap, as two mules can be kept with the food of one large horse. The irons for these ploughs, &c. will not cost above six or seven dollars, and let the farmer amuse himself wooding them on rainy days.

Thus equipped, one man is as good as two on the old plan, which you perceive is one hundred per cent, added to his capital at once.

Lime* is indispensable. What; a poor man lime his land! Yes; "but what will it cost? I have no money." Well, that shall not hinder you; take a load of wood to some oyster-house and they will give you two loads of shells for it—the oyster boats jump at it. Carry the extra load to the lot of some friend, and thus, whenever you have an occasion for a trip, bring back shells. Make a brush-heap, large and compact, throw fifteen bushels on as diffusely as you can ; burn more brush on top until you see all the shells red, and then they will cool so as to crumble with a slight stroke of the shovel; the next day spread them and plough in, or mix one bushel in each load of manure. You may not see the good effect of lime, but you will feel it in increase of weight in every crop. Add some plaster certain : this }'Ou will have to buy, but the difference of yield in half an acre of Irish potatoes rolled in it, will pay for two casks of plaster. Not so much in the growth of the potato, that I know, as in the uniformity and certainty of their coming up. In the production of manure I find great economy in keeping each animal stalled and littered, so as to keep them clean. To those who intend to build or alter their farm lots, I suggest that the stalls for cows and mules be made with a road between them so that they may stand tail to tail, each in their separate house; and thus the accumulations thrown out in alternate layers may produce a better article than either separate. My animals produce forty to fifty cart loads each, a year.— This might be increased if there was help enough to do the carting. Now for the application. Haul out fifty loads on an acre, turn it in, sow one bushel of corn, harrow it once when four inches high—turn this all in in October, and then sow one and a half pecks of vetches per acre, which if seasonable will be shoulder high by the 25th of May, and ripe enough to seed again for the next year. They will not sprout all summer, but put up about frost, and furnish a crop again next year. Turn in the vetches every year, and on the back of all this, plant corn. Thus from year to year go on upon fresh acres, and no more need be added to the first, but let it rest, in its rotation. Land that will bring clover knee high will bring vetches as high as rye, and as thick as they can stand. I send you some native vetches, which I am using; I also have procured some from England, and will give you in time the result. By the bye, would your readers like to hear what Arthur Young says about them; if so, you shall have it?

Now, Mr. Editor, all theorists allow that lime will make peas grow. Vetches are but miniature garden peas, and if turned in will make

* I have some observations on this subject, which you can have if you desire them.

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161

30m grow ; one crop of corn will not take out all die manure. And thus an impetus will have been given to the soil that corn could not overtake, and as each turning in gives back to the soil the pro-'ij best adapted to its own re-production, certainly the theory must be good/ And now let your readers tear it to pieces, but I will try it as fast as seed will let me, and be the result what it may, you shall have it. No wheat grower should think of sowing vetches, at least natives, as the tares would grow among the wheat and ruin- it. I have a belief that vetches are equal to oats; if so, all the time now spent in their production will have been saved for improving. What an acquisition!

T am, however, drawing out this communication to too great a length, and, therefore, desist. Your friend,

J. H. D. Lownes.

P. S.—For " spires" in my last, read pounds.

J. H. D. L.

FARM HORSES.

In a very interesting description, in the Farmers' Cabinet, of " Scotch farming in the Lo-thians," we find the following upon the subject of farm horses:

Such an abuse as three horses to a plough, except to the subsoil plough, is unknown. The universal compliment for one hundred acres, I found to be, two pair of horses, two ploughmen, and one laborer; the number of women and children varying with the particular crop, perhaps, six or eight, during the season.

In this small allowance of horses, it must be remembered, that the ivhole one hundred acres is arable, there being no permanent pasture.

The winter keep of the horses is a mixture of one-half chopped straw, or chopped any thing, and one-half, steamed turnips, or potatoes; and this feed is found not only much cheper than hay and oats, but the horses are kept in better condition, and enjoy better health. No horses could look in finer condition than they did.

For the Southern Planter. THE EARBERRY BUSH.

Mr. Editor, —I wish to know of you and J'our correspondents whether the barberry bush (a shrub that is found in some of the old gardens in Virginia) will give wheat the rust. If 0, to what extent will its contagious and blighting influence be felt. I arn aware that the popular impression, is, that it will give the rust to eat. I must confess if such be the fact' I ana wholly unable to account for it upon philosophical principles. I have a very large one in Vol. IV.—21

my garden, which has been there for the last century. My wheat has been destroyed by the rust every year since I have been a resident of Louisa county. I have been credibly informed, however, that the crops of wheat upon this estate were not injured by the rust in former years, maugre the presence of the barberry bush. In 1S42 I had the most promising crop of wheat I ever saw, but it was taken with the rust shorily after it had headed, and the wheat was injured to such an extent as to render it unmerchantable. I was disposed, however, to attribute the failure in my crop of wheat to the heavy floods of rain which fell about the time the wheat was in bloom. In 1843 my crop was totally destroyed by the rust. This year I plastered my wheat in the month of April, during a damp and moist spell of weather, and it was attacked so soon afterwards by the rust, that I attributed it to the plaster of Paris. The rust in this instance made its appearance at an earlier stage than I had ever before known. Before the wheat had headed, the blades and stalks were completely coated with the rust, and many of them were totally blasted. I would here inquire, en passant, whether there is any thing in the physical genealogy of wheat to justify the belief that the rust is hereditary. I throw out the suggestion because the seed that I used for this crop was materially injured by the rust. I have observed that the rust has invariably made its appearance first on the wheat contiguous to the barberry bush and gradually extended its blighting influence over my entire crop; the greater portion of which lay remote from my residence, and was separated from the field which extended to the barberry bush by a road thirty feet in width. It is true, many of my neighbors suffered like myself from the same cause, even at the distance of six or eight, miles. I cannot believe that "its fell blast" swept over the crops to that extent. The rust when it attacks a field continues to spread until it covers the entire field. Fromwhat cause this proceeds I am unable to say. Whether the rust is contagious or its spread is the result of like causes producing similar effects, I must submit for the solution of physiologists and farmers of closer observation and more practical information than myself.

The last fall I received a small portion of wheat from a friend in Orange county which he said was rust proof. I gave it to my gardener, with instructions to sow it in my garden near the barberry bush. He did as I directed him. It came up well and grew off finely and promised well; but ahout the 10th of May the fell destroyer made his appearance on .the wheat, •proximate the barberry bush, and in the space of ten days blasted the entire square. I had it mowed for hay. I have remarked during the last three years, that the rust has invariably

\

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made its appearance first in the wheat nearest the barberry. It has already made its appearance on the borders of a field about, seventy or eighty yards distant from it; and 1 fear will eventually pervade the entire field; as I believe it will doubtless spread, let it proceed from what cause it may. I have always been a sceptic as to this influence attributed to the barberry bush; but I must confess the evidences which have passed in review before my own eyes within the last three years have very strongly assailed my scepticism and well nigh made me a convert.— The present season has been very favorable to the wheat crop. It has been generally cool and dry. There has doubtless been nothing in the season calculated to generate the rust. But to attribute it to the influence of the barberry bush, in the absence of any satisfactory reason, would appear childish and ridiculous in the extreme. I, therefore, sir. appeal to you and your corps of correspondents for your opinions upon this subject, and should you render a verdict against the barberry bush, highly as I prize it, because of its beauty and antiquity, I shall unhesitatingly lay the axe at its root and abate it as a nuisance. In haste, yours, most respectfully,

Clayton G. Coleman. Jerdone Castle, Louisa, May 24, 1844.

We know that practical and scientific men are divided both in this country and in Europe upon the subject of the blighting influence of the berberis vulgaris, or common barberry. It is not philosophical to infer that that does not exist, the reasons for which we do not perceive. Our perceptions are too finite to authorise us to declare that the relation of cause and effect does not exist because we cannot trace the intervening links of the chain. The evidence upon the subject is at least sufficient, in our opinion, to give to the axe a bush no more valuable than the barberry.

A NEW IMPLEMENT.

Capt. Chandler has made a new implement, without a name. It is constructed as follows: A beam of strong hard wood is made, about 6 feet long, and about 6 inches square; into this are put 12 teeth, about b\ inches apart, extending below the beam about the common length of long harrow teeth ; these teeih are flat, with a sharp edge forward, and they are made at the lower part, or point, with a moderate curve forward, that they may incline downward into the soil. Handles are fastened to the beam, and with bars of iron it is fastened to the axle of a pair of wheels; the forward wheels of a wagon will answer for this purpose.

Thus constructed and hung to the wheels, it

is drawn by a horse, or oxen will do, and the person holding can bear on the handles, or step on the beam and ride there, or to relieve it when coming in contact with a fast substance, he can readily raise it over the impediment. When going from place to place it may be turned up on the axle and safety ride there. The object of this implement is to cut to pieces sods and turfs, and finely pulverize them, which it will do more effectually than a harrow, as the teeth are sharper; besides, as it covers a small space of ground, the teeth being all in one line, the holder has complete command of it; and as the teeth bend forward and run under the soil, they raise it and leave it lighter, down some depth, than a harrow, which is often dragged over the soil and makes it more heavy. This important implement will doubtless answer a good purpose in cutting up old grass lands, disturbing the roots and loosening the soil, and allowing a top dressing of manure to work down among the grass roots, assuming in this respect the purpose of a scarifier.— Boston Cultivator.

HENRICO AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY.

This Association held its annual fair at God-din's Spring on the 22d day of May, and there is no disguising the fact, that the thing was a total failure. In the way of stock, to be sure, we had Mr. Stevenson's Ayrshire bull and cow, and Mr. Joseph Mayo exhibited some very superior cows of native breed. Mr. R. B. Haxall also exhibited some young Ayrshire stock, one of which, in particular, promises to do great credit to her public spirited owner. From the garden of Mr. Charles Marx we had a show of early vegetables that would have done credit to any exhibition of the Horticultural Society of Philadelphia ; but with these exceptions, a more interesting exhibition may be found any morning at either of our market houses. The only thing to give eclat to the scene was an able and eloquent address from Mr. James M. Wickham, who fully justified the high expectations his announcement had excited.

The following day was enlivened by a very interesting ploughing match. The contest was eager and animating, exciting the most lively interest in the spectators. The favorite of

the day was Mr. Chamberlayne, a

deaf and dumb gentleman, to whom, greatly to the gratification of the crowd, the second premium was awarded: the first was bestowed upon Mr. Eubank, and the third upon Mr. Francis Staples. Eubank and Staples were unsuccessful competitors last year, and although

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163

greatly admired for their skill and adroitness then, the evident improvement in their style of ploughing evinced the good effect of the emulation these noble contests are so well calculated to inspire. By the end of another year, we should not be afraid to match either of these men against any ploughman in the Union.

We regret very much the evident falling off in the character of this exhibition; something perhaps is to be attributed to the unfitness of the season, but much more to the blind apathy of the citizens of Richmond. If every man who has been benefited to the amount of ten dollars per annum through the influence of this Society, (and in this category would be included undoubtedly every housekeeper who attends the Richmond market,) would only contribute one dollar to its support, it would easily maintain its career of usefulness. When its loss is felt, its value will be appreciated, and those who refused the pittance necessary for its support, will be the first, when it is too late to reanimate it, to regret its decay. However, we are happy to say that a few members with whom, "the blood more serves to rouse the lion than to start the hare," seemed only encouraged by defeat. Several spirit-stirring appeals were made, and a resolution was unanimously adopted, that we would hold another fair in the fall, which should eclipse any of the very interesting exhibitions that have preceded it. Will not the farmers of Henrico; will not the citizens of Richmond; will not the mechanics; above all, will not the ladies, with their admirable handiwork, assist us in so "rood a cause ?

OATS FOR COLTS.

In reading over the " Report of the Committee on the Florse," made to the "Newberry Agricultural Society," South Carolina, from the South Carolina Temperance Advocate, we notice the following caution—"Do not let them (mare or colt) be turned into a lot where there is green oats. It i3 poisonous to the colt."

We had the misfortune this fall to lose the finest colt we ever had, and until this time could have no idea what caused his death. He was about two months old when he died, and was in as fine health and as playful as any colt at mid-day, when we turned an older colt with him into a lot to exercise—that night he died. Could it be possible the oats killed him? We saw hirn eating the oats ourself, and hope, if it be certain, that this note may guard others, who may be as ignorant as we are. Certain it is,

we lost our fine colt, and to make the matter worse, refused some two weeks previously, over three hundred dollars for him—and unless the oats proved injurious, we know of no cause.— We ask of those conversant with these matters, for facts; and add, that if this thing of green oats being poisonous to colls be true, we think giving it to our readers, even secondhand as it is, to be worth to each one who knew it. not before, double the price of every farming paper in the Union. So, }<ou that are benefited, pay for this, if you have not, and subscribe for another. We are almost led to believe it, and one hundred dollars would have been a cheap price for us to have paid on the 1st of September for this knowledge.— South- Western Farmer.

Oats may sometimes kill a coir, but we know that sometimes they don't; for we have turned them in upon an oatfield often and over again for a green bite in the spring, and they never failed to derive great advantage from it.

BARN-YARDS.

We have before us the well written and practical address of Mr. Mather, before the Middle-town (Connecticut) Agricultural Society, October, 1843. The following extract will show the manner in which he manages the important subject of manures:

"Of the methods which I have tried, I consider the following as the most economical.— The barnyard should be excavated in the centre in the form of a dish, leaving a margin on all sides sufficiently broad for the comfort of the stock, and convenier.ee in feeding. In the fall, the yard may be covered to the depth of ten inches or a foot, with materials from the swamp, the bottom of ditches, or with turf from the road side. To this should be added all the weeds and refuse of the farm. And I am strongly of the opinion that here is the most profitable place to spread all the lime, ashes, plaster and salt which we design to apply to the land in the coming spring. The liquid from the stables should be led into the middle of the yard, and the manure from the stable, as fast as it is made, be equally spread over the whole, that the quality may be uniform. No water should be permitted to come into the yard, except what falls directly upon it. By the treading of the cattle during the winter and spring, the whole will be incorporated into a uniform mass, and in a suitable condition to apply to the land. By pursuing substantially this course, I have more than doubled the quantity and value of the manure on my farm. A Dutch farmer, it is said, built his barn directly over a small creek, leading into the Hudson, that the stream might carry away all the filth. We are not quite so improvident as

THE SOUTHERN PLANTER,

the Dutchman, but there are some farmers who, in order to secure a dry yard for the stock, are very particular to leave a drain to carry off the wash. They might as well cut a hole in their pockets" — JYeiv England Fanner.

POUDRETTE.

We negligently omitted to say in our last number what we should have said of this article. In the city of New York we fell in with Mr. D. K. Minor, who increased the already high respect we entertained for him by the extreme sensitiveness he exhibited to the imputations made in Virginia against the article of poudrette furnished by him. Mr. Minor seemed to be much more anxious, as a gentleman would, to stand fair amongst honorable men, than to reap any pecuniary advantage from establishing the character of his poudrette. Indeed, we have reason to believe that the demand is already greater than he can supply ; we, therefore, could attribute to him no sinister motive when he requested us to take home and distribute some pamphlets containing the strongest testimonials of the successful results obtained elsewhere; these are now ready for any who may have a curiosity to examine them, and Mr. Minor particularly requests that they may be placed in the hands of those with whom it failed last year. We are aware of the utter hopelessness of any attempt to obtain another trial for poudrette in Virginia, until the strong, and certainly not unfounded, prejudice against it has in some measure worn off: at this time all the odium of an exploded humbug is hanging to it, and no one was more thoroughly convinced of its worth-lessness than we were. But we must confess we saw enough at the North to shake this opinion, and we doubt now if the unaccountable result in Virginia was not more unfortunate for the agricultural community here, than for the proprietor. Both in Philadelphia and in New York we witnessed large sales made in the agents' office, and the gentleman who has charge of it in Philadelphia, the Editor of the "Farmers' Cabinet," informed us, that, it was impossible to keep a supply on hand, such was the demand, principally from the plainest and most

practical farmers of the vicinity, who had given

it a thorough trial the year before.

Mr. Minor is quite an enthusiast upon the

subject of poudrette—he views it with the eye of a devoted friend of agriculture, and declares

when its value is properly understood, the farmer will as soon think of letting his silver dollars lie scattered about his yard, as leave neglected his receptacles for human ordure. He volunteered us an essay upon the subject with directions for the preparation of poudrette, which he says can be readily manufactured by every farmer foi' himself. We hope he will not forget us,

For the Southern Planter.-FRUIT TREES.

Mr. Editor,— On the last page of the iasS number of-the Planter you give us from the New Hampshire V\ hig a new method of raising fruit trees, by which (we are assured) we shall have fruit precisely like the parent tree. That this paragraph should have gone the rounds of the political and religious press from Exeter to Richmond is not to be wondered at; but that it should have crept into even a corner of the Planter is at least sufficient to authorise us in correcting the error. Suppose these two best farmers of New Hampshire or any others should turn up a root under an " Elk Horn" cherry that had been budded on a Morello, or a " wine-sap" apple that had been grafted on a wild crab, I venture to guess they will look a little sour when they come to eat the fruit. The fact is, the most of our best fruit trees are either budded or grafted, and consequently a tree raised from the root of such will not bear fruit precisely like the top. P. B. W.

JYoiioioay, May, 1844.

We do not see why the paragraph alluded to should not have " travelled from Exeter to Richmond," or why it should not have " crept into a corner of the Planter." Nothing is more reasonable than that an upturned root converted into a tree, should "bear fruit precisely like the parent tree." It did not need P. B. W. nor a Philadelphia lawyer to inform us, that if the parent tree had been grafted, the root could not be expected to bear fruit like that of the craft.

From the Albany Cultivator.

SEEDING GRASS LANDS—PROPER TIME

FOR CUTTING AND METHOD OF

CURING HAY.

Having been requested to make known the experiments I have tried and fully tested, I now submit them pro bono publico, with all due deference to the opinions of my seniors in agriculture.

When preparing a meadow or upland, I usually seed on wheat, sowing in the fall half a bushel of timothy seed to the acre, which is

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165

limed at the rate of three hundred bushels ; and the following spring, after a moderate fall of snow, one bushel of clover seed, top dressed -with charcoal dust, and rolled. From land so treated, I cut, last season, three tons of hay to the acre. My practice is to commence cutting when one-third of the blossoms of clover have turned brown, and the timothy just parting with its bloom. The grass thus cut is drawn immediately into the barn, and one bushel of fine salt spread by hand thinly over each alternate layer composing a ton, as stowed away in the mow. The salt prevents mow burning, molding, &c, and the stock are induced to eat it as greedily as they would new mown grass, which it nearly resembles, as its most nutricious juices are preserved, being diffused through the stem of the entire plant at that period of its growth. If left on the ground until the seed ripens, the saccharine juice of the plant is lost.

The principal desire of the farmer should be to preserve the green appearance of his hay, and at the same time make it tender and pala-

table to his stock. The fermentation which ensues after it is housed, secures that object, and prevents the inevitable injury to his meadows which follows ripening grasses. By* early harvesting he obtains a luxuriant growth of aftermath or rowen, almost as nutritious as the first, and as much relished by cattle, but peculiarly adapted to sheep.

It is now supposed by chemists, that the plan of keeping a large stock of horned cattle for the-express purpose of manuring a farm, is an erroneous one on this account.

The ash of all grasses contains, by analysis,. in greater or less proportion, according to the varieties, potash, soda, lime, magnesia, alumina, oxide of iron, oxide of manganese, silica, sulphuric acid, phosphoric acid, and chlorine, many of which substances are required in the animal economy, to form muscle, blood, horns, hoofs. &c, and are forever lost to the farmer. Yours, respectfully,

R. L. Pell.

Pelkam, Ulster Co., Jan. 21, 1844.

For the Southern Planter.

AN OX BREAK

Mr. Bolts, —The cut above will give you some idea of a method of breaking young oxen adopted pretty generally in this neighborhood.

A, i-: a post 4 feet high and firmly planted in the ground. B B, a pole 20 feet long with a two inch auger hole bored in it at C. The top of the post, is trimmed down at C to 2 inches, and the pole fitted on loosely so as to turn round easily. Draw your ox up and fix his neck in the bow at D—fasten his tail by means of a rope to the pole and let him run, walk or lie n as he pleases. In a few days he will be-

come tired of his circular motion and will readily move straight forward by the side of another ox to a cart. P. B. W.

From the Alexandria Gazette.

REMINISCENCES OF THE OLDEN DAYS OF VIRGINIA.

ORIGIN OF THE TERM CAVENDISH TOBACCO.

There lived in the County of Mecklenburg, and Colony of Virginia, some seventy and five years ago, a Col. Cabanis, a successful planter

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and " prosperous gentleman." Now, in those ancient days of Virginia, the habit was to export the tobacco grown in the colony to the mother countiy, to be manufactured, and there to be re-exported to Virginia, there to be masticated and spirted upon its native soil.

Our worthy Colonel was the first to start domestic manufactures in the South on his own hook, by the erection of a private establishment for the manufacture of chewing tobacco on a small scale. And a prime article was turned out from this infant, and, we may say, isolated manufactory of the olden time. And the good Colonel, who was a member of the House of Burgesses, would at every annual visit to Williamsburg, put into his saddle-bags a choice twist for each of his brother members and chew-ers of the House; and anxiously, indeed, was his advent, or rather that of his saddle-bags, looked for, while many a smacking of lips, as well as shaking of hands, greeted the arrival of the manufacturer of Mecklenburg at the capitol.

Now the Cabanis twist beat all competition; it had the taste, the twang, the real game flavor, and many and earnest were the inquiries as to the modus operandi by which such an exquisite article was produced. At length the Colonel divulged the mightysecret—" He always pressed his prime, the real Cabanis, in an old bee gum!"

Gentle readers, who are masticators of the weed, rejoice! After the lapse of three-quarters of a century the truth, tfee mighty truth, is out at last. So let us hear no more of Cavendish tobacco, but of " Cabanis No. 1, real Bee Gum," and no mistake!

CjESAR and the razor-strop.

During the vice-royalty of Lord Botetourt, there lived and nourished in Williamsburg, a black barber named Caesar, a queer old fellow, and famed through all the country around for the bluntness of his wit and the keenness of his razors. Now Ccesar's shop was, in those ancient days, as the barbers' shops are in modern times, the focus of all the news and scandal of the place. And thither would the then magnates of Virginia repair to enjoy the gossip of the Capital, and to have their "chins new reaped" by Caesar's incomparable sharps. Even Col. Bird, the mirror of the taste and fashion of Old Virginia's gallant and joyous day, would discard his crowd of valets and go to the barber's shop when he wished to indulge in the luxury of a smooth shave.

The Colonel determined to inquire into the mystery of these superior sharps, and said, " Ccesar, you old villain, surely the devil must strop your razors for you or how do they acquire such an edge 1 Here am I importing year after 3'ear strops of great price and celebrity, my rascals are continually stropping, and yet we cannot raise an edge comparable to yours. Here's a

guinea, come show me your strop." The mysterious barber took the gold, eyed it with great complacency, pouched it, and then displaying his ivory from ear to ear, observed, " Well, rnassa Bird, go you send home for strop, hey, and still Caesar's razors beat all! he, he, he. See here,, massa," and going to a box, he produced as "old bridle rein nailed to a piece of wood."— The astonished Colonel cried, " what the devil is this, Cresar ! As the boys say, sure you are poking fun at me." To which the barber of the ancient regime, making a bow, that for grace and dignity would not have shamed the vice-royal court itself, laid his hand upon his heart and remarked, "Ton my honor, dat is all my strop ;" then continued, " but mind, massa Bird, it must be ' old plough-bridle reign, de more sweat and dust, de better.' "

Col. Bird took the hint. He ceased his importation of foreign strops, while his vast estate furnished a great choice of the domestic material ; and often would he relate to his visiters at Westover, the story of the famed old Barber of Williamsburg, and the discovery of " the Magic Strop."

Jlrlington-House, March 8, 1844.

ARTIFICIAL MANURE.

At a meeting of the New York Farmers' Club Dr. Valentine observed that the chemical salts were at a low price, and might be profitably employed in a judicious way. He proposed to exhibit to the Club at the next meeting the formation of an artificial guano that would not cost more than one-fifth of the imported, and equally effective. The following are the ingredients :

Nitrate of soda, 20 pounds.

Sal ammonia, 10 "

Carb ammonia, 5 "

Pearlash, 5 "

Sulphate of soda, 8 "

Sulphate of magnesia, 5 "

Fine bone, 60 "

Salt, 10 "

Sulphate of lime, 2 bushels.

Meadow mud, or street manure, 1 cart load. Carbonate of iron, 2 drachms.

Manganese, 2 "

Sea-weed, sand, dirt, &c. are very valuable, the first particularly, for its fertilizing qualities. Reference for analysis of it was made to Thompson's Chemistry, Vol. IV. page 298. It is found to contain eighteen different ingredients, according to M. de Chaubry reported as above. Dr. V. observed, that when manure collects about barn-yards in puddles, the greater part of it is lost. Decomposition is always going on, and consequently the ammonia and carbonic acid so necessary to vegetation are constantly passing off into the atmosphere.

THE SOUTHERN PLANTER,

167

To prevent this it is necessary to put sufficient ashes in the puddles to form a paste as thick as mortar, and then add sufficient unslaked lime or sulphate of lime (plaster of Paris) to bring the whole to a dry powder. This powder is then to be taken out and put in a dry place until it is wanted for use. As the puddle again collects it is to be treated in the same way. By this process you collect a large quantity of manure in a dry state, capable of being kept any length •of time—the essence of which would otherwise be lost in the atmosphere.— Selected.

LIME AND CHARCOAL. Mr. William Partridge, in an essay read before the Natural History Department of the Brooklyn Institute, remarks:

"I would advise our farmers, until something better offers, to persevere in the use of charcoal and lime, as these are to be obtained in any quantity and in most situations at a very trifling cost. The lime will supply carbon and oxygen to the plants during their growth, and the charcoal will take up and supply them with all the ammonia necessary to their full development without any over-supply. Charcoal will also afford to plants sufficient moisture during long droughts from its hydratic quality of saturating its pores, and from its great retentive power. It also lightens the soil, permitting the sun and air to penetrate to the roots of the plants, and letting all the rain percolate freely through it that is not required for its own saturation."

be an adequate yearly supply for each adult" hen, and that by allowing the fowls "an hour's run for exercise before retiring for the night, high health and productiveness will be secured." David dishing keeps 25 hens, and feeds them with oats, corn-meal, broom-corn seed, and refuse meat, and supplied with ashes, pounded shells, &c. They were confined to a warm but airy room during winter. His account current is as follows:

Poultry Establishment, Dr. To investment of stock and fixtures, $50 00

Interest, 3 50

Feed, a large estimate, 25 bush, oats, 20 cts. 5 00 Attendance, 5 00

Total,

By 75 doz. eggs, 12 cts. sold early, By 200 chickens, 10 cents,

Leaving a nett balance of $15 88

On an investment of $60 00, or, an inteiest of more than 25 per cent, on the capital employed. Mbamj Cultivator.

YOUNG TURKEYS.

A writer in the Cultivator says young turkeys should not be fed for at least twenty-four hours after hatching. After the first day, a little curd or boiled egg may be scattered upon a board or flat stone. If the weather is cold or wet, it is well to season their food with pepper. Very little, if any,4ndian rneal should be given. If used, it should be wet up some hours before be-incr fed out.

PROFITS OF POULTRY.

From the Report of a Committee on Poultry, of the Wayne County (New York) Agricultural Society, we gather the following items:

Charles P. Smith, of Ontario, keeps 120 hens and two cocks. Attached to his hen-roost is a yard containing one-fourth of an acre, enclosed with a picket-fence six feet high. From the first of March to the tenth of October, he had 6,000 eggs, and 115 chickens.

John J. Thomas, of Macedon, states that carefully conducted experiments have led to the conclusion, that a " bushel and a half of oats will

CASH SYSTEM.

" Live and learn." We are not a cash people ; that is certain. After having tried the cash and credit plans, we abandon the former now and forever. We have returned to the old sixty day rule, and we mean to adhere to it. Our reasons for this, although of a private nature, we choose to expose to the public.

There are a great many persons to whom it is not exactly convenient to pay the dollar at the moment the opportunity for subscribing offers ; and our old subscribers, who intend to renew, from habits of procrastination that belong to human nature, postpone it until it is too late. Moreover, gentlemen, who have been paying us in advance for two or three years, think hard of it to have their paper stopped because their dollar is not paid up to the day; and we must confess that it appears to be a little too exacting for our own notions of liberality. Thus, we lose some of our best subscribers, and excite a state of feeling that we would not provoke for the whole value of the paper. 'Tis true, that the credit system carries with it a certain degree of loss, as we know by experience, but we are also well satisfied that a cash paper cannot live, in Virginia at least. We have, therefore, issued a new prospectus, (which we will mail to each subscriber, with a respectful request that he will fill it with names,) in which it will be seen