mm w & • ' \ .Ql .t;V i ifU ■* >h; rf 1 A - i. > , f. -i'*' =.,'''i.>' i'r- V k % 4 It, V ;> y. r? . I 'I Digitized by the Internet Archive in 2017 with funding from IMLS LG-70-15-0138-15 https://archive.org/details/southerncultivat34unse TO AUGUSTA, GA, PUBLISHED BY J. W. & W. S. JONES. ie45. VOLUME A. Page. Agriculture, and Rural Economy ol the South 40 “ elevatiorj of as a pursuit 15S “ extract from Sleeper’s ad- dress on 128 “ improvements in 186 “ j)rogress of in Europe 44 “ progress of English 112 speech on, by Alphonso Ro- gers 141 “ the study of 153 Agricultural Associations recommended. . 13 “ chemistry 55 “ education 56, 74, 122 “ emulation 9 “ exhibition in Greenville, S.C. 173 “ inconsistencies 159 instruction in schools. .. 113, 145 life, Washington’s opinion of 69 press, the 25,72,89, 136 products of the U. States 21 products, increase of 45 statistics 137 tour, by A. McDonald 139 Society ofS. Carolina. .2, 19, 137 “ Georgia.. 42, 77, 143, 179 “ Barbour Co., Alaba- ma.54,78, 99,110,173,182 “ Bowling Green, . .77, 125 “ Burke Co. .. 110, 125, 143 “ Chatham County... 93 “ “ Clark County 143 “ “ Cobb County.... 77, 181 “ “ Habersham Co. ,..94, 140 “ “ Harris County 43 “ “ Pendleton, S. Ca 97 “ “ Putnam County 61 “ “ Warren County. 110, 180 “ Societies, value of 179 Acre, contents of an 63 Advertisers of agricultural implements, hints to 125 Air and light necessary to plants 116 Alpaca, no’tice of the 73 Allotment, system of in England 44 Analysis of soils and crops 42 Professor Shepard’s 117, 121 Animals, kindness to 67 “ cruelty to 160 Apple and Peach trade 165, 168 Apples 184 ArchilectureVrural in New England 175 Aftichoke, the 45 Asparagifs,; cultivation of at St. Sebastian’s 101 Asthma, to' relieve the 41 B. Balsams, to produce handsome 45 Barbour County, Alabama, Agricultural Page Society 54, 78, 99, 110, 173, 182 Barometer, a foreteller of storms 11 Barn yards, arrangement and manage- ment of 149 Bars, instead of gates recommended Ill Batter cakes, to make good 109 Bermuda Grass .... 13, 57, 76, 91. 107, 108, 123, ' 138, 139, 156 Beds, cotton recommended 96 Beets, to cook 19 Bible, a venerable 3 Blind Bridles 191 Bom.mer’s Manure 76 Bones, use of in Cincinnati 89 Botany, study of by ladies !59 Boussingault, notice of his “ Rural Econo- my,” 109 Book-Farming, anecdote 19 Books Preferable for Agricultural Pre- miums 89 Books, notices of new 109 BowlingGreen Agricultural Society .. .77, 125 Burke County “ “ 110,125, 143 Budding, process of described 15 Butter, howto makegood 61,67, 126 Bread, to make corn 12 Bread-stu.dT, concerning the production of. 75 Brooks, Whitfield, an account of his plan- tation 20 Broom Corn 35,57, 89 Broyles, O. R. notice of his farm 98 Brussels Sprouts 29 C. Calendar for 1845 9 Calhoun, John C. his farm and manage- ment 98 Calhoun, John E. his farm and manage- ment 99 Camellia, the 87 Can a Horse Reason 189 Cash System, why adopted 40 “ “ the 186 Cattle, breaking young 78 “ importance of keeping warm. .23, 24 “ improved breed of 121 “ sale of Mr. Printiee’s 121 “ to destroy lice on 47 Celery, cultivation of 115 Census, suggestions to the takers of the .... 43 Circular of J. S. Skinner and O’Reiley. . . 47 Cobb, Howell, letter of 140 Cobb County Agricultural Society. . .77, 181 Colman, European Agriculture by 40 Cold, a cure for 45 College, Agricultural at Nashville 95 Comfrey, new use of 131 Compost for Sandy Land 61 Corn Bread, to make 12 Page. Corn, tillage and produce of an acre by E. M. Pendleton 10 Corn, do. do. by R. S. Hardwick. 27 “ do. do. by Benj. T. Harris.. 27 do. do. by Martha A. Lewis, 27 “ do, do, by Thos. C. Grimes. 28 “ blading and topping 150 “ close planting, experiments in 39 “ cultivation of by J, E. Muse 52, 84 “ Egyptian fii “ Indian, analysis of 117 “ sown broad-cast as a fertilizer 51 “ sugar from the starts of 50, 66 Cotton, beds recommended 96 “ culture, Gov. Hammond’s report on 115 “ culture of, by C. Leary 60 “ “ by M. Scarborough 91 “ estimate of crop of 1844, by Prof. McCay 25 “ Egyptian 50 “ early in market injurious to plant- ers 150 “ large yield of .». 50 “ notice of Col. A. McDonald’s. .57, 62 “ oil from the seed of Ill “ Sea Island 20 “ tillage and product of one acre by R. P. Sasnett 28 “ do. do. by B. T, Harris.. 28 “ do. do. by R. S. Hardwick, 28 “ wool and seed analysed 117 Cooper, J. H. on cotton seed oil m C«w pea, use of to restore oldl and 87 Country, life in the 106 Correspondents, to 72 Cuttings, on the management of 129 Charcoal as a Manure for Flowers -. . 41 Chatham County Agricultural Society 93 Chemistry, Agricultural 55 Cheeseology 134 Clarke, Dr. Adam, his table ol the weather 122 Clark County Agricultural Society 143 Club, Planters’ of Hancock County.l, 9,27, 180 “ “ of Early County 94 “ Farmers’ of Upatoie 157 Crib-biting, to cure 127 Crops, analysis of 42 “ the growing of 1845 139, 156 “ Patent Office Circular concerning. 140 “ require Food as well as Animals. . , 131 Cruelty to Animals..' 160 Craw'ford, Nathan, letter from 93 D. Davidson, Paul, Essay by 126 Dependence, Southern 186 Dogs, Solham’s shepherd’s 58 Dogs and Sheep 105 Dog, shepherd’s 74 r.jK’s’^rrpvte s:^iS:!S(3t:ft~iAZi^yss€S'2rr=^rz^ssr^rsT^^^ INDEX. .. .VOL. III. Hi Page. Ditches, hillside 86,88, 169 Directions, useful 122 Deep Digging, recommended 96 Downing, A. J,, his work on Landscape Gardening Downing, A. J., his work on Fruit and Fruit Trees of America 158 Driving Horses, different modes of 29 E. Early County, Planters’ Club 94 Economy, Plantation 90 “ Rural, of the South.. 49 “ Rural, Boussingault’s 109 “ Southern 1.‘14 Education, Agricultural 13, 56, 74, 122 “ improper 191 “ Statistics of 167 Electricity and Agriculture 59, 117, 142 Ellsworth’s Report, extracts from 58 Examples lor Planters 59 E.xcretory Duct of Sheep 93 Experimental Farming 190 Extravagance, Southern reproved 72 EDITORIAL — Absenteeism 72 Acknowledgements 24 , Agricultural Education 11)73, 122 Agricultural Press 25,72,89, 136 “ Stafistics 137 Alpaca 73 Bermuda Grass 57 Books preferable as Premiums 59 Breaking up Prairie Lands 153 Broom Corn and Tobacco 57 Broom Corn, Bones, Whip Handles .... 89 Cash System ot Publication 40 “ “ illustration of 186 Colman’s European Agriculture . 40 Cotton, over-production of 25 Chickasaw Pea 17i Deep Plowing 170 Dogs 53 Distinguished Farmers 137, 154 English Farming 185 European Farming 25 Ellsworth’s P^eport 58 English Laborers 89 Feeding Plants 88 Fruits and Fruit Trees. 184 Grape Vines, new mode of propagating. 41 Hemp, cultivation of....... 9, 24 Hessian Fly 88 Hillside Ditches 88, 169 How to Get PJeh 186 improvements in Virginia ........ 41 Improvement of Soils by Mixing 120 Improved Breed of Cattle 121 Independent Man 121 Introductory... 8 Irish Potatoes 9 Keeping Cattle Warm 24 Kenilworth Pigs 104 Lard Lamps 41 Lazy Fever 122 Lecturing, good 170 Lime 168 Lindley’s Outline.... 24 Maine Farmer 136. 169 Manures 40 Meriwether’s Address 153 Page. Mind and Soil of the South 88 Oatmeal as Food for Man 104 Our Fourth Volume 184 Political Economy 40 Postage 56 Pictures Planters' Club of Hancock Planter, Southern described... Plows, rule for mould board Printice’s Sale of Cattle..-.. .. Products of Southern Industry Protective System .... ....... Railroads Silk.... 25 9 58 40 121 104 90 186 -72 Sound Sleep and Pleasant Dreams.... 57 So. Carolina State Agricultural Society, 137 Southern Dependence, 186 “ Independence 187 » Follj ... 104 Subsoil Plov.'s, demand for 186 “ Plowing; 73 Sugar for Manure 121 Sugar Cane, new variety......... IGS Study of Agriculture 153 Sheep in the Southern States 105 SpeedthePlow 187 To Correspondents 72 To Friends and Patrons 24 The Season 121 The Northwest 169 Wh’at, preparation for planting 152 Yankee Enterprise 170 ■F. Farm of O. R. Broyle 98 “ J.C. Calhoun 97 “ John E. Calhoun 99 " Henry Clay 137 " A. F. Lewis 98 R. A. Maxwell 97 “ Mr. Phinney 170 “ R. F. Simpson 99 “ T. M. Sloan 97 “ M. Van Buren 137 “ D. Webster 154 Farm, a Maryland 147 “ a Virginia 147 “ Indian Hill ' 6 “ Marshfield 6 Farms, model... 45 “ too large, extract from Whipple’s Address 6 “ premiums for. 6 Farmers, American, their policy 5 “ dignity of their pursuit 46 “ duty of to one another. 150 Farmer’s Wile, an English 106 Farming, European 25 “ English 186 “ experimental 190 " good and bad contrasted 130 “ . in Virginia, improved 5 Feathers and Feather Beds, a chapter on . . 175 Fencing, remarks on 10 Fever, to cure the lazy 122 Folly, Southern 104 Future, hints for the.. 144 Florida, cultivation of Sugar in 174 “ Coffee 188 Flowers, charcoal as a manure for 41 “ nature of--- »•• • 102 Page. Fly, Hessian, origin, history, &c. of 85 Freak of Nature 93 Fruit, best raised by one’s self 153 ‘‘ encouragement to raise 69 “ stealing, a crime 43 “ the nature of 102 “ use of in the family 68 Fruits and Fruit Trees 184 Fruits and Fruit Trees, notice of Downing’s 153 G. Galls, on horses, to cure 62 Gama Grass, notice of 13 Gardening, ornamental £0 “ Landscape, Dowming’s 109 Gates, preferable to bars 111 Geranium, rat-tail, a new sort 112 Goose, Guinea, notice of the 31 Gulf Stream, made known by Dr. Frankhn- 55 Grain, advantage of grinding for animals-- 79 Grape Crop, on the, by S. Weller 103 “ new mode of propagating the 41 “ culture of the 132 Grapes, for the South, inquiries about i08 “ a list of, suitable for the South 149 M. Hair, a wash for the 144 Habersham County Agricultural Society-. • 94 Hammond, Governor, on culture of cotton- - 115 Hancock County, census of, by R. S. Hard- wick 142 Harris County Agricultural Society 43 Hemp, ite culture, &c --9,17,24, 33 Hernandez, on culture of tobacco- 35 Hessian Fly, origin, history, &c., of 85 Hides, remarks on preserving- - - 187 Hillside Ditches 88 House Keepers, hints to- 144 Hogs, fine stock * 25 “ Berkshire 60, 92, 124 How to Get Rich- • • 186 Husbandry, Practical 51 “ the science of good 157 Horse breaking 62 “ can he reason 169 the management of- 59 “ the 113 “ to cure galls on 62 Horses, to check runaway 5 Horticulture 133 “ by Mrs. Sigourney- 127 “ Lindley’s Outline of- -24, 31, 46, 63, 79, 94, 102, 116, 129 I. Improper Education 191 Independent man 121 Indigo 26, 63 Industry, reward of 62 products of Southern- 104 J. , Johnston, Professor, on agricultural instruc- tion in schooL 113, 145 K. Kenilworth Pigs 104 Kindness to animals 67 . L. Laborers, condition of European ... 44 “ English £9 Land, improvement of, urged 126 “ poor and worn out, to improve 51 “ resuscitation of worn out 151 rich and poor, contrast of manage- ment 150 unproductive 13 Lard Lamp, notice of B.acon’s 4! IV INDEX.... VOL, III, Lazy Prverj a cure for the 122 Leaf-buds, nature of- 63 Leaves, their nature and use 79 Lettuce, on the curivation of- Lewis, A. F. farm of Lice, to destroy, on cattle Life in the country lOo Lightning, as manure £0 Lime ^68, 172 Lindley, Professor, his outline of Hort cul- ture- •• -24, 31, 46, 63, 79, 94, 102, 116, 129 Locust, yellow, for fences 66 M. McDonald, Alex., articles by- -60, 91, 99, 103, 156 Mad Itch 130 Maine Farmer 136, 169 Manure, Bommer’s method of making 75 Essays on by J. J. Flournoy 61 “ making 157 “ on the application of 123 Manures, artificial • • • 103 “ inquiries about 143 do they sink f 70, 107, 123 “ Dr. Porcher’s report on 37, 40 “ H. Meigs on 70 making compost 70 “ proper application of to land 190 “ saving 71 Marl, application of in South Carolina.... 21 “ formition of in South Carolina 22 Meat, cheaper to make at homo 75 Medicine, a simple and valuable 77 Meteorological journal, 1845 135, 151, 167 Milk, as food 46 “ to preserve 117 Mouldboard, rule to make the, for plows. ... 40 Money, value of time 103 Meriwother, J. A. address of to Putnam Co. Agricultural Society 153, 161, 177 North and South contrasted 12 Northwest, soils of the 169 Nutrition, vegetable 14 O. Oatmeal, as human food Oil, from cotton seed Okra, culture and value of Old fields, the improveraent of Olive, cultivation of the Orchards, the preserv.rtion of from insects. . . . Overseers, P. 104 111 84 51 7 15 26 Patterson, George, an account of his farm. . . . 147 Palma Cbristi, inquiries about 108 Past, remarks on the 144 Patent office, circular from the, about crops, 140 Pea, cow, as a fertiliser 87 “ Chickasaw do 171 “ nutritive qualities of 133 Poach and apple trade 165, 163 Poaches, on, and list of good 185 Pears, on, and list of good 185 Perspiration of plants 130 Pictures of stock, concerning 25 Pigs, warm bed necessary for 45 “ Kenilworth 104 Poetry, “ She’s nothing but a country girl,”. 144 Poultry, different kinds of 62 Political Econom}’’. 40 Population, decrease of in New-York.... 153 Porclier, Dr., his report on manures 37 pork, and other matters 41 “ supplyof 1844,, 76 Page. Postage, 56 Potatoes, Irish 9 Potato, sweet, analysis of 117 “ “ cutting vines off. ICS “ “ to keep through winter 156 Putnam county Agricultural Society. Cl do do Mr. Meriwether’s address before 153, 177 Phillips, Dr. his address before the Habersham CO. Agricultural Society 140 Plantation, economy. 90 Green Word’s, in Alabama. .... . 148 of W. Brooks in So. Ca 20 Plants, general nature of. 46 “ leeding 88 “ food of 191 Planter, the southern, described. 58 Planters, advice to by J 42 injured by taking early cotton to Page, Southern folly 104 “ dependence 186 •'* independence 187 “ habits reproved, 72 industry, products of 1C4 “ planters, suggestions to 119 Subsoil Culture 18 4 Subsoil plow, and plowing 31 Sugar cane, new variety of 168, 172 “ Florida 174 “ for manure 12I “ from cornstalks .50, 66 Scions, nature and management of 129 Sheep, and wool, 123,156, 171 “ excretory duct of 93 “ in the South 105 “ raising 139, 143 “ rot in, to prevent 188 Shepard, Prof, analysis by, of corn, cotton and market 150 “ injured b}' buying what they should make at home 170 “ southern, suggestions to.. 119 Plaster as a manure 30 Plow, subsoil 31 “ speed the 187 “ rule for mouldboard of 40 Plowing, deep recommended 51 “ deep 188 “ subsoil 74 Plums, on, and list of good 185 Prairie lands, breaking up 153 Premium, offered 56 Premiums, awarded 56 “ of books,. 89 Press, -agricultural notices of 25, 72, 89, 136 Products, agricultural, of the United S 21 Proposed plan of a General State Societj-.... 187 Protective system, a plea for the 90 Pyramids of Egypt, notice of 11 R. Railroads, effects of 186 Raspberry, cultivation and sorts of 13S Relic, an ancient skeleton. 15 Rice ]9 Roots of plants, the nature and use of 46 Rotation of crops, necessity of 63 Rot in Sheep 188 Rust, to prevent the, in wheat 71 S. Sap of plants, its nature and use 116 Salting food for Stock 187 Season, drought of the 121 Sexes of plants,. • 95 Seed, quantity of to the acre 44 “ nature of 102 Silk, by Hugh Cassidej' 72, 76 “ history of the culture in Georgia.... 81 “ Culture of in the U. S 174 Simpsen, R. T., account of his farm 99 Soap, how to make 79 Society, State, plan for a 187 Soils, analysis of 42, 164 “ improvement of, by mixing 120, 125 ‘ natural and artificial contrasted,.... 169 “ necessity of supplying with what crops take away 68 “ plan of improvement of suggested. . . . 172 Sound sleep and pleasant dreams 57 South and North contrasted 12 “ mind and soil of the... 88 “ Carolina,' Agricultural Society of potatoes 117 Skinner, J. S. circular of 47 Sloan, T. M. account of the farm of. ..... ." 98 Smut, to prevent in wheat .152, 159 Spade husbandry 44 Stable economy, by Stewart 109 Steam in agriculture 44 Stem of plants, nature and use of the 63 Stock, raising 127 “ salting food for 187 Storms, the law of H Stump lifter, described 64 Syrup, cane, Judge Taylor’s 69 Swiney, to cure.. 166 T. Talking vs. doin^. 132 Tanning on the plantation 65, 92 Tea, nutritive qualities of 69 Time is money 103 Tobacco, Cuba, cultivation of 35 “ in Connecticut 57 cultivation of in Cuba 65 Tomatoes to cook..- 151 Tully,Col. his farm described 147 Turkics, how to raise... Ill Thrifty and Unthrifty, history of 163 Transplantation, principles of 130 Transplanting, hints about 16 Trees, destruction of ornamental, a crime. 9 U. Unthrifty and Thrifty, history of. t . 163 Ulcers, dressing 79 Upatoie, Fanners’ Club of 157 Y. Vegetable nutrition - : . 14 Virginia, improvements in 41 W. Warren County Agricultural Society. . . .110, ISO Washington, his opinion of agiicultuial life 69 Weather, Dr. Clarke’s table 10 foretell.... 122 Webster, Daniel, an account of his farm.... 154 Wife, an Englis.h farmer’s described 106 Wine, making in Alabama 132 Wool, articles cn 69, 92 V\/^ool growing, inducements to engage in. . . . 4 Wool and cotton, the manufacture cf in Mississippi,.... 5 Wool and sheep 123, 156, 171 Wood, Col. Green, an account of his plantation 148 Wounds, dressing with gum Arabic 79 Wheat, cultivation ot an acre of by Wm. Terret, 28 cultivation of an acre of by B. M. Pendleton, 28 “ culture of 15 compost for 144 “ seed, how to get good 79 •' preparation of 152 “ to prevent rust in 71 “ to prevent smut in 152, 159 straw for fodder 124 Whip handles, making at Cincinnati 89 Whisile, a new steam 10 Y. Yankee enterprise 170 Yeast, nature of 144 VoL. III. AUGUSTA, GA., JANUARY 1, 1845. No. 1. For the Southern Cultivator. ANNUAL FAIR OF THE PL.\NTERS’ CLUB OF HANCOCK. Sparta, November I and 2, 1844. Mr. Editor • — The Executive Committee of the Planters’ Club of Hancock, transmit to you ior publication, the following synopsis ot the proceedings on the days of the Annual Fair; The Club convened at the Female Academy, on Friday the 1st, when many citizens from this and the adjoining counties had met to witness the examination of the various kinds of domes- tic fabrics and stdcb, which were examined by the several committees; and on Saturday, the committees reported and premiums and honors awarded; and an address, both interesting and instructing, was delivered by James Thomas, Esq., to a large collection of ladies and gentle- men. The premiums and honors awarded, were c — To Mrs. Sam’l. A. Pardu, for 8 yds. best homespun, for gentlemen’s wear $3.00 Mrs. L S. Bass, for 2 yds. , do 2.00 Mrs. A; C. Whitehead, lor 3 yds. do 1st honor. Mrs. Jones', of Warren CO., Ibriydsdo 2d “ Miss M. A. Battle, for 5 yds. do 3d “ [Miss B. has made 95 yds., same kind of goods, since 1st July last.] A lady of Warren CO., forS yds. homespun, ladies’ wear, ^1.00 “ for a beautiful silk and satin bed quilt, (exhibited by T. Neal, Esq.) 3.00 Miss Susan Jones, of Warren co., for 21 best do 2.00 Mrs. Mansfield, for a pair black silk hose, (domestic manufacture,) 1.00 Miss C. F. Haynes, for an open work linen cambric handkerchief, 1.00 Mrs. O. H. Lanier,for a lady’s knit collar, 1.00 Mrs Richards, for a beautiful bead purse, 1.00 Miss Garrett, for a knit cap, 50 Miss Mary Coleman, for a pair worsted mitts, 50 Miss A. L. Battle, “ “ silk mitts, 50 Mrs. O. H. Lanier, for 8 yds. handsome knit edging, 50 Miss C. Smith, for 2 imitation coral baskets, 50 Mrs. Martha Anne Lewis, for the best acre of corn 96i bushels)— a silver cup, 10.00 Thomas C. Grimes, for the 2 d best do (64 7-10 bu'hels) 5 00 Edmond M. Pendleton, for the 3 J best acre of corn, (52| bushels,) $'3.00 Benj. T. Harris, for the 4th best do (48^ bushels,) honor. ♦R. S. Hardwick, tor the 5th best do (14 bushels,) honor. Wiliam Terrell, for the best acre of wheat, 25f bushels,) ^10 — in a silver cup. E. M. Pendleton, for the 2d best do (19 bu- shels,) @5.00 Thos. C. Grimes, for the 3d do (16 bushels^ 3.00 James P. Knowles, for the best boar, ^ 3.00 There were some very fine stock hogs exhi- bited by Harwich, but not lor premiums. Thomas C. Grimes, for 2 Durham bulls, and one Durham cow, S?'I0.00 William Terrell, for a native stock milch cow, 2 00 „ . do do honor. Benj, T. Harris, for a milch cow, 3.00 Thomas Neal, for his bay horse, Wonder, 5 years old, 5.00 James Mitchell, for his black horse, 5 years old, 3 00 Sam’l. A. Pardu, for his bay horse, De Witt, 4 years old, _ 3.00 James B. Edwards, for his bay filly, 4 years old, 3.00 R. S. Hardwick, for his bay filly, 4 years old, 2.00 Thomas C. Grimes, for his filly. 3 years old, 3.00 James McCason, for his sorrel filly, 3 years old, 2.00 John F. Brooke, for his filly, 3 years old, honor. L. S, Brooking, for his bay filly. May Blossom, 2 years old, ' 3.00 John F. Brooke, for his colt, 1 year old, 3 00 F. D. Gonder, for his filly, do do 2,00 Thomas Neal, for his brood mare, Lucinda and colt, 5.00 do for his do Spangle and colt, 2.00 Richard P. Sassnett, for best acre of cot- ton, (2037 lbs.)— $10, in a silver cup. Beni. P. Harris, lor the 2d best do (17281 lbs.) 5.00 R. S. Hardwick, for the 3d best do (1600 lbs.) 3.00 The officers for the ensuing year, are Myles G. Harris, President. Thomas Whaley, 1st Vice President. Charles R. Knowles, 2d “ “ J. P. Whitehead, 3d “ “ Tuttle H. Audas, Secretary. Nathan C. Sayre, Corresponding Secretary. Resolved, That the proceedings of the Fair be published in the Southern Cultivator and Milledgeville papers. Tuttle H. Aodas, Secretar)^ The great political excitement in the country, at the time of the Fair, did not add anything to the great cause of agriculture, though rur Fair was very respectably attended ; and as the ex- citement has now ceased, our people begin to talk on the subject of agriculture more than ever, and seem- determined to direct some of their energy and foice to something that will be more profitable than co ton, by dividing their la- bor. And as there will not be a President to elect next November, we expect our Fair to be by far the most brilliant that we have ever had. dur prospects are now brighler than at any time heretofore. The cause of agriculture must and will prevail. Yours, with respect, T. H. A. .. "ke mode of culture bv iisked hereafter. — Se'^e'ury. ilard'.vicb, to be pub' LIST OF PREMIU.M3 OFFERED FOR THE ANNU- AL FAIR IN 1S45. The Annual Fair of the Planters’ Club of Hancock, will take place at Sparta, on Friday and Saturday before the first Monday in No- vember, 1845, when the following premiums and honors will be awarded; For the best acre of upland corn, a silver cup— value, ‘ $10.00 " 2J do do 5.00 “ 3d do do 3.00 “ 4th and -5th do do honors. For the ben low ground corn, without ma, nure, @5.00 " 21 do do ^3.00 " 3d dc _ tic 2.00 4th and cih do honors. For the best acre of wheat on upland, a sil- ver cup — value ) $10.00 2d do do 5 00 3d do do 3,00 4th and 5th do honors. For the best cotton on upland, a silver cup — value, $10.00 “ 2d do do 5.00 • “ 3d do do 3.00 4th and 5lh do honors. For the be.st oats on upland, $3.00 “ 2d do do 2.00 “ 3d, 4th and 5th do do honors. For the best acre of potatoes, $3.00 “ 2d do do 2.00 " 3d, 4th and 5th do do honors. For the best acre of turnips, $3.00 “ 2d do do 2.00 “ 3d, 4ih and 5th do do honors. By a rule of the Club, competitors for premi- ums on crops will be required to give the mucizis eperandi of culture, the quantity and quality of manure applied, and evidence that the land re- ported on contains only one acre or acres, and the crop accurately measured- For the best jack, a premium of '$5.00 “ 2d do do 3.00 For the best Georgia raised mule, 3,00 “ 2d do do do 2.00 For the best mule colt, 3.00 “ 2d do do 2.00 For the best stallion, 4 years old or upwards 5.00 “ 2d do do do 3.00 “ 3d, 4th and 5th do do honors. For the best 3 year old colt or filly, $3 00 “ 2d do do 2.00 “ 3d, 4th and 5th do do honors. For the best 2 year old colt or filly, $2.00 “ 21 do do 1.00 “ 3d, 4th and 5th do do honors. For the best brood mare, with or without a colt, $5.00 “ 2d do do 2.00 “ 3d, 4th and 5th do do honors. For the best bull, 3.00 “ 2d do do 2.00 “ 3d, 4th and 5th do do honors. For the best 2 year old bull, $2.00 “ 2d do do 1.00 3d, 4th and 5th do do honors. For the best cow producing the largest quantity of milk without regard to blood, $5.00 “ 2d do do do 3.GG “ 3d do do do 1.00 “ 4th and 5th do do honors. For the best cow, having regard to $5.00 ■ ■ 3.00 200 honors. $2.00 l.OQ honors. .$2.00 1.00 honors, $2.00 1.00 honors. $3.00 2.00 honors. $3.00 2.00 •honoCO “ 2d do do “ 3d do do “ 4th and 5th do do. For the best 2 year old heifer,. “ 2d do do. “ 3d, 4th and 5th Jo do, For the best ram, “ 2d do do ” 3d, dib and 5fh do, For the best Ewe, “ 2d do. do " Sd, 4th and -5th do For the best boar, “ 2d do do ‘‘ 3d, 4th and 5th do Foi the best sow, " 2d do do " 3d, 4th and -5th do. For the heaviest fat hogagreeable to age, $5.rs. THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. “ 2d do do do 3.00 “ 3d do do do 2.00 " 4th and 5th do do do honors. For the heaviest pig, agreeable to age, from 6 to 12 months, $5.00 " ■ 2d do do 3.00 “ 3d do do 2 00 4th and 5th do do honors. For the best piece ol 8 yards homespun, gentlemen’s wear, ^3.00 " 2d do do 2 00 “ 3d do do 1 00 “ 4th and 5th do do hono rs. For the best 10 yards do for ladies’ wear, S'3 00 “ 2d do do 2 00 " 3d 4th and 5th do do honors. For the best counterpane, S3 00 “ 2d do do 2.00 “ 3d 4th and 5th do honors. For the best piece of lOyds. domestic silk $5.00 “ 2d do do 3 00 “ 3d do do 2.00 “ 4th and 5th do do honors. For the best article ol negro clothing, $3.00 “ 2d do do 2.00 “ 3d 4th and 5th do do honors. For the best negro blanketing, $2.00 “ 2d do do 1.00 3d 4th and 5th do do honors. The Club have set apart $20, to be aw’arded by their committees to articles manufactured by ladies and not embraced in theirlistof premiums, such as caps, capes collars, stockings, gloves purses, and such other articles as the taste and fancy ol ladies may induce them to present. Resolved^ That no animal, nor article, shall for the luture be permitted to take a premium of the same class or number the second time, but may be exhibited and take in any class ornum- ber, above the rank that they were placed at the previous fair — and that this resolution be pub- lished with the next premium list. The Club being impressed with the great im- portance to the country, of raisng their own pork and wool, will in addition to the foregoing pre- miums offer lor the greatest amount ol pork, not less than 300 lbs net, raised for each member of family, including whites and blacks, a silver cup — value $10.00 For the 2d highest amount in pounds, 5.00 “ 3d do do 3 00 '* “ 4th and 5th do (none to be less than 300 lbs,) honors. For the greatest number of pounds ol wool raised (clean) to the number in family, including whites and blacks, a silver cup, $10.00 “ 2d do do do 5.00 “ 3d do do do 3.00 “ 4th and 5th do do do honors. Tuttle H. Audas, Secretary. From the South Carolina Temperance Advocate. PROCEEDINGS OF THE STATE AGRICUI/rURAL SOCIETY. Columbia, November 25, 1844. The State Agricultural Society met, agreea- bly to notice, and the delegates having enrolled themselves, the Society was organized by the President, and proceeded to business. The alteration of the Constitution, requiring the formation ofan Executive Committee, com- posed of the officers of the Society and three members, was called to the attention of the So- ciety; on motion, the President appointed Hon. J. B. O’JNeall, Hon. F. W. Pickens and J, W. Roper, as the Committee, w'ith the officers. The following documents were presented to the Society and respectively referred to the Ex- ecutive Committee and the Committees appro- priated for each : The Black Oak Agricultural Society for- warded a Report of one of their Committees on Manures. A Report of the Officers and members of the Cambridge Agricultural Society. The Waleree Agricultural Society sent a re- port on Potatoes — also one on Corn — to be re- ferred to the Committee of awards on Potatoes and Corn, From the Newberry Agricultural Society, praying that the next meeting ot the State Agri- cultural Society be held in the village of New- berry. A document containing marling facts and estimates, from Edmund Ruffin, late Agricul- tural Surveyor of South Carolina. The entire proceedings of the New' York State Agricultural Society, wms forwarded through Col. A. Summer, together with sundry documents relative to the diSusion of agricul- tural know'ledge. Mr. McCarthy moved that the thanks of this Society be tendered to the officers of the State Agricultural Society of New York, for the vo- lumes and documents relative to iigricuitural subjects which they have presented to this So- ciety, and that the Secretary be hereby instruct- ed to present copies of similar publications and documents ol this Society to the officers of the aforesaid State Agricultural Society of New York. A communication was presented fro.H F. D. Q.iiash, Corresponding Secretary ot the South Carolina Society, asking the aid of the State Agricultural Society, in petitioning the Legisla- ture for the continuance of the Agricultural Survey of the State. Also, a letter from Edmund Ruffin, in reply to one from the President, returning the thanks of this Society to him for his services as Agri- cultural Surveyor of the State. A.lso, a letter from R. W. Aliston, concern- ing the account ofan experiment in the culture of Rice, and the production ofan acre. Also, one from A. H. Seabrook, one of the competitors for the premium for the greatest amount of Sea Island Cotton, having reference to quality and Valuation. Also, one from W. Wright, of York, a com- petitor from York for the premium for the great- est amount of wheat per acre. Also, one from D. J. Mesuain, of York, for the premium for the greatest amount of corn per acre. The Hon. J. B. O’N'eall presented the follow- ing, as an amendment to one of similar purport offered by Mr. Roper, viz: Resolved, That an application he made by the President to the Legislature, requesting them to make an appropriation equal in amount to the sum contributed by the members and dele- gates ot the State Agricultural Society, to be, by the State Agricultural Society, expended in premiums at its semi-annual and annual meet- ings, and lor such other Agricultural purposes as they may think proper. This motion was discussed by Col. Edwards, Hon. J. B. O’Neall and Mr. McCarthy, and agreed to. Dr. Gibbes communicated that the Commit- tee appointed at the last meeting of the Society, for the purpose of memorializing the Legisla- ture lor the continuance of the Agricultural and Geological Survey, respectlully Report: — That they have discharged the duly, and that the Me- morial is prepared and ready to be presented to the Legislature. The President called the attention ©f the So- ciety to a communication addre.s!5ed to the Hon. Geo. McDuffie, W. McWillie and W. B. Sea- brook, from Col. F. W. Davie. Hon. J. B. O’Neall moved that a Committee of five be appointed, w'ilh the President as chair- man, to report upon this communication at the semi-annual meeting of this Society. The lollow’ing gentlemen were in consonance appointed; Geo. McDuffie, W. McWillie. J. B. O’Neall and Wm. J. Alston. The Society adjourned tillTo’clock on Tues- day evening. Tuesday Evenixg, Nov. 26. The Society convened as ordered, and the pro- ceedings were read by the Secretary. The President announced the following Com- mittees : For the best cultivated Farm. — J. B. O’Neall, Newberry; L. A. Beckham, Chester; E. G, Palmer, Fairfield ; Wm. Gain, Black Oak ; J. Lartigue, St. Peter’s. Short Staple Colton. — John H. Means, Fair- field; Joel Smith, Abbeville ; Thos. H. Pope, Newberry; Wm. J. Taylor, Kershaw. Long Staple Colton. — John Rivers, St. An- drews; J. Fielding, St. Lukes; Dr. P. Palmer, St. Jotin’s Berkley ; Wm. M. Murray, St. John’s Colleton. Ricc—R. W. Roper, St. Philip and St. Mi- chael; P. W. Frazer, Prince George; John Harlston, St. John’s Berkle}'. Corn and other Gram. — R. F. W. Alston, Prince George ; Edward Harleston, Anderson ; P. S. Brooks, Edgefield; W. McWillie, Ker- shaw; J. M. Felder Orangeburg; A. Hibben, Christ Church. Potatoes. — Dr. P. Palmer, St. John’s Berkley ; Maxw ell, Anderson ; A. Summer, New- berry; N. L. Griffin, Edgefield ; Paul Grimbali, St. John’s Colleton ; B. B. Poiter. Silk. — William Summer, Newberry ; Samuel Earle, Greenville; W. G. Simms, Barnwell; W. Giles, York; E. P. Smith, Spartanburg. Domestic Fabrics.— Dr. R. W. Gibbes, Co- lumbia; B. F. Perrv, Greenville; W. J. Al- ston, Fairfield ; F. W. Pickens, Edgefie:d ; Dr. Guillaird, Anderson. Marl. — Wm. M. Murry, Dr. R. W. Gibbes, R. W. Roper. » The communications were then respectively referred to the Committees, together w'ith the certificates or premiums. Mr. McCarthy moved the following : Whereas the opinion has become impressed upon the public mind, that all useful advance- ment in Agricultural improvement and in the arts of rural economy, mainly depend upon the collection of the numerous facts wffi’xh are lur- nished by observation and experiment, and by the discov'eries of practical science; and inas- much as many ot the States of this Union are in advance of ourown, in both experimental and scientific knowledge, in all the branches of in- dustrial labor, through the instrumentality of local and State Societies, aided, in many instan- ces, by the encouragement which is afforded by legislative assistance: And, whereas, it is expedient that this Society should avail itself ol all the lights and informa- tion which have been obtained elsewhere, by means either of individual or associated experi- ment, or by scientific discovery ; and an object of special interest at this time is to ascertain, from indubitable sources, what has been the ex- perience of those States in reference to the ben- efits resulting from legislative assistance, in w'hich appropriations in aid ol Agriculture have been made : Be it therefore Resolved, That a Committee of five members be he eby appointed, of w’hom the Corresponding Sec; etary shall be chairman, who shall be charged wiih the duty of institu- ting a correspondence wiih such of the States as they shall think proper, by communications, ad- dressed to the Governors, Secretaries ol State, or to the Presidents of local or Slate Societies, for the purpose of acquiring such information as w'ill enable them to present to this Society at Its next meeting, a full and authentic report upon the following points ; 1. What assistance ha.s been offered by legis- lation in the States to the advancement of Ag- riculture and the arts of Husbandry. 2. In what manner and under what regula- tions and restrictions has this assi.siance been rendered, 3. What benefits to Agriculture have been derived from legislative appropriations, and in w'hat way has their application proved most available. 4. Has the apparent and practical benefit de- rived fromjhe fostering aid of government, af- forded sufficient encouragement to induce the States to continue its appropriations for a suc- cession of years. 5. Have the States, or any of them, caused i^gricultural or Geological Surveys, and Re- ports to be made, and to what effect ?' And what THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 3 benefits have resulted to Agriculture Irom these services. These resolutions were sustained by the mover and carried. The following is the Committee under the above resolution : — Dr. R. W. Gibbes, Ed. G. Palmer, Whiifield Brooks, W. Gilmore Simms, A. H. Boykin, R. W. Roper. Mr. A. G. Summer moved that a sufiicient portion of the Hall ol this House be appropria- ted for the accommodation of the Ladies on Thursday evening, at the Anniversary of this Societ}’, which was agreed to. The Secretary moved that a committee be appointed by the President to inquire into the means of this Society, and report at its next meeting — and the following gentlemen were ap- pointed: Wm. J. Alston, J. Lartigue, 1. Du- Bose. The Society adjourned till Thursday evening, 7 o’clock. Thursday Ev’ening, 7 o’clock. The Society convened as appointed, and be- ing organized, the Secretary read the proceed- ings of the last meeting. The reports from the several Chairmen were now offered, as follows : The Committee to whom it was referred to award the premium for the best conducted farm, beg leave to report; That the only claim pre- sented to them was that of Whitfield Brook.s, Esq. On examining the description given of it by the officers and members of the Cambridge Society, your Committee are of opinion that Col. Brooks has not only most fairly and fully entitled himself to the premium, but also, that the de.scription of his plantation should be pub^ lished, as an example worthy of imitation. John Belton O’Neall, Chairman, The Committee on Potatoes respectfully re- port: That but one individual came forward to compete for the premium on this crop, Mr. R. Cameron, of the Wateree Agricultural Society, who presented a certificate of the crop raised by him, from the Wateree Agricultural Society. His crop was four hundred and thirty-six and three-eighths bushels per acre. Your Commit- tee accordingly recommend that he receive the premium offered by this Society. Your Committee would particularly notice the fine specimens exhibited to the State Agri- cultural Society, by Col. R. F. W. Allston, and regret that he did not furnish the Society with an estimate of his crop. Peter. P, Palmer, Chairman. The Committee on Corn and other Grain beg leave to report; That for the premium on Corn there were two competitors; one showing a pro- duction of 86 bushels and I9i quarts, ffoin one acre, duly attested by the Secretarv of the Agri- cultural Society in Kershaw District — the other showing a production of 105 bushels and 18 quarts from one acre, but unaccompanied by any certificate of any officer of the Agricultural Society of York District. Under the eircum- stances your Committee are unable to award any premium. They take occasion to suggest that the Society, in tuture, should require of ap- plicants for the premiums of this Society, to produce a statement of the culture used by the proprietor or overseer— a statement certified by the President or Secretary of the local Agricul- tural Society, of the measured quantity of land, (45,000 square feel to the acre,) also of the mea- sured quanLity and weight per bushel of the grain. There was but one applicant for the premium on Wheat. The Committee do not regard the production as very great, but were pleased with the evidence afforded of the enterprize and per- severance of the farmer in manuring his land and cultivating his grain. His treatment is given during three years, and the whole is duly certified. The Committee recommend that the premium tor Wheat be awarded to Col. Wm. Wright of York District. Your. Committee farther recommend, that the very interesting letter of Gen’l. Jamieson, on Millet, tJ the Society, be published, with the proceedings of this im eting. R. F. W. Allston, Chairman, The Committee on Rice have received but one communication upon its mode of culture, and from the facts and results detailed in the Report, consider the means employed in the cul- ture, scientific and useful. The result of the quantity of land planted and tended, according to the statement rendered, was at the rate of se- venty-eight and three-quarter bushels per acre. This, although by no means an unprecedented quantity, is yet very large, and from the quality ofihe Rice, entitles the grower, Mr, R. F. W. Allston, to the premium. The suggestions ol Mr. Allston, as to the propriety of offering a pre- mium lor the discovery of the cause ofihe rust and chalk in Rice, is left by the Committee to the wisdom of the Society to determine. All the facts contained in the documents upon which this Report is predicated, are so fully detailed, that your Committee deem it unnecessary to enlarge farther upon the subject. Allvvhich is respectfully submitted, R. W. Roper, Cliairman. i The Committee on Long Colton regret there j was no competitor for the premium. Onesam- | pie only has been submitted to their inspection j by Mr. Archibald Seabrook, of Edisto Island, I of very superior quality, both in length and fine- j ness of staple, grown from selected seed. It appeared that Mr. Seabrook, raised 5410 lbs. of I cotton in the seed, to eight acres, which was de- j signed for this premium. Upon this land, IGO j piled single horse cart loads ol marsh were put j in August, 1843, immediately after being cut and partly listed in, merely to prevent the depre- dations of cattle, and, (as he expresses himself,) “to allow the marsh to rot on the ground in- tended for cultivation.” In this way the saline and other ingredients not evaporable were pre- served. By e.xposure, too, for several months, to the combined action of air, light and moi.slure, the process of decomposition in the spring is regular, and the matter becomes food for the plants early in the season. It requires of this quality of cot’on 1500 lbs. in the seed, to make 300 lbs. of clear ginned cotton. At this rate, if the cotton commands the lowest prices at which it has been valued by two disinterested factors in Charleston, it will realize in money $95 to the acre. Your Committee therefore recommend the premium to be a warded to Mr. Archibald H. Seabrook, of Edisto Island. j Jno. Rivers, Chairman. ! The Committee on Silk respectfully report that they examined the specimens presented to thetn, and would recemmend that the premium be awarded to Mrs. Mary W. Dantzler,of Spar- tanburg District, ior the white Silk Vesting, manufactu.'ed and | resented to the inspection of the Society. Her lot consisted of Vesting Cloth, and a fine net Shawl, of single silk, beau- ti fully made. They would notice favorably a net shawl from 1 Miss Cassandra Poole, of Spartanburg, of equal beauty with the one mentioned above, which was the work of her own hands, from the feed- ing of the worms, to the netting oi the shawl. Also, from Miss Harriet D, Davis, of Abbe- ville, a net Shawl of sewing silk, which display- ed great care in its manufacture— also a silk pocket. From Miss S. M. Davis a pair of -Silk Hose ; and from Mrs. Sam’l. Reid, a pair of Silk half Hose. From Mrs. P. H. Baskin, of Abbeville, a beautiful plaid Shawl, of wove silk. From Wm. H. Villard, of Aiken, fort}'^ net Shawls of various patterns, the work ol his daughter, Miss P. H. Villard. From IMrs. and Miss Crosby, of Lowndcsville, Abbev ille Dis- trict, a few specimens of Silk Cloth, mixed with wool, and from Mrs. Reid, a piece of Cloth of the same kind. Your Committee are sorry that the limited means of the Society prevent them from bestow- ing premiums of a secondary value to others of those who have favored the Society with thsir beautiful articles of domestic industry and d . k-- cate handiwork. Wm. Summer, Chairman. The Committee on Domestic Fabriec report that they have examined carefully the speci- mens submitted to them, and recoramend for premiums the following articles; A specimen of Cotton Bagging, of manufactured cotton, from the Pendleton Factory, which the Com- mittee considers the best and most substantial article of the kind ever seen by them — a speci- men of Worsted Cloth, manufactured by Mrs. Baskin, of Abbeville, and one of checked Cotton Homespun, by the same lady, both of which are highly creditable to the skill and industry of tliat lady. Robert W. Gibes, Chairman. The Committee on Marl, to whom wmre refer- red several communications, viz: Mr. Edmund Ruffin’s “ Marling Facts and Estimates” — Mr. Ravenel’s account of the number ol acres marl- ed, and certain experiments in his neighborhood — Mr. Brisbane’s and Air. Holmes’s experi- ments—report : That they find all these papers of great value, and recommend that they be pub- lished in the Planter. They also report that they have awarded the PL.ufiin Premium to Mr. Holmes, ol St. An- drews’, for his well conducted experiments iri marl, as applied to Cotton, Corn, and Potatoes. Wm. M. AIurray, Chairman These awards were made, and the cups awmrcled; and on motion ofMaj. Felder, it was ordered, that a ten dollar silver cup be awarded at the next Anniversary, to the lady who displays the best silk dress, of her own manufacture. Hon. Judge Butler was appointed to address Ibis Society at its next .semi-annual meeting, on the last Wednesday in July. At the instance of an invitation extended front the Newberry Agricultural Society, it was agreed that the semi-annual meeting in July of this Society, be held in New'berry village. The following officers were elected for the en- suing ywar: WhitemarshB. Seabrook, President. Hon. J. R. Poinsett, Anniversary Orator. Chan. B. F. Dunkin, 1st Vice-President. Chan. Harper, 3d “ “ Whitfield Brooks, 3d “ “ Hon. J. B. O’Neal, 4ili “ " Hon. P. Butler, 5th “ “ Hon. J. M. Felder, 6th “ “ Dr. R. W. Gibbs, Corresponding Secretary, Dr. J. B. Davis, Recording Secretary. The President returned thanks for the con- tinuance of his .«eat. On motion of D.f. Gibbes, it was Resolved, That this Society recommend to its members, and to the local Societies of the Stale, the necessity of sustaining the Southern Agriculturalist, published in Charleston, ana the Carolina Planter, published in Columbia. Hon. R. W’’. Roper, now delivered an able Address, which, after a motion of thanks, was ordered to be published. Thanks were returned to Mr. Russell lor his display of flowers at the Exhibition. The Society now adjourned, to meet at New- berry Village, on the last Wednesday in July. J. B. D.\vis, Rec. Scc’ry . A Venerable Bible. — At the Anniversary meeting of the American Bible Society, an old divine from New Hampshire, called iut.ksr Robbins, held in his hand the identical Bible upon which the members of the First Congress and President W^ashington were sworm into oflice, and containing the names of all those old worthies written on its pages. These, said Mr. Robbins, v.'ere Bible times — and these, Bible men, and God blessed and prospered their labor; and under these men the Goumry was prosperous. God grant, sir, said he, that we may again have such rulers andsuch tim^s ' owanwiiopai ■XM 4 Tlti: SOU'l'IIIiliN CULTIVATOR. wool, -UROWINO. There is every evidence that wc .siiall have ior years to come, a large and profitable demand lor wool. The e.stal)li.shment of a reasonable protective tariff for the raw material, as well as the manufactured article, will, if persevered in, of which \Ve can not allow ourselves to enter- tain a doubt, afford remunerating prices to the wool-growers of our country, till we have reach- ed a production fully equivalent to the demand. What data may be assumed, as lurnising a cor- rect estimate ol the proper maximum of supply, would probably puzzle the shrewdest writeison political economy. We have, as elements pro- perly entering into this estimate ; 1. The quantity now raised in the United States beyond the coarse Smyrna and South .A.merican wools, costing 7 cents and under per lb., at the place whence last imported, on which the duty now levied i.s 3 cents ])er lb., and 3 per cent, ad valorem. On all wool costing over 7 cents per lb., the duty is 3 cents per lb., and 30 per cent, ad valorem. S. The gradual substitution ot a better grade ®t wool, (as the supply augments and becomes cheaper,) lor carpets, blankets, and many of the coarser labrics, which are now made Irorn the coarse wool above mentioned; as it is an estab- lished tact, that an equal weight ol a fine staple, is much more durable than the same quantity ol an inferior grade. 3. Tliesupplyot the finer sortsot Saxon wool, now imported for the best qualities of broad- cloth, cassimeres, &c. 1 am not aware of the quantity of this description of wool annually imported under our pre.sent tariff, but judge it to be considerable, from the fact that 1 was assured last year, by a manufacturer, that he bad just ordered 50,000 lbs. ; and a dealer told me ili ii he had imported Irom London (the great wool mar- ket not only for England, but for the continent of Europe also) a much larger amount, for con- sumption in the eastern state.'i, during the last season. ■1. The rapid increase of our own wool- len manufacturers, (our tariff remaining as it is,) and the manufacturing within our«elves, of nearly all the finer descriptions now' imported, ol broadcloths, cassimeres, fancy goods, shawl.s, booking, carpets, and rugs of the choicest quali- ties, (Brussels, Royal Wiltons, &c ,) blankets, worsted stuffs, bombazets, bombazines, inoii.sse- lines de lainc, (fcc., &c. ; the raw material lor which, is in all cases, furnished of a foreign gtowlli. 5. The increasing demand from the increaise of our population. 6. A demand augmented beyond the ratio of increasing population, consequent upon tlie prosperity of the country and the diffusion of wealth, wliich must inevitably accrue to our country, if w^e have the wi.«don to maintain our present pacific relations abroad, and our protec- tive policy at home. 7. Tlie application .of woollen fabrics to new and unforeseen purpo.ses, as o.ur manufaclurers advance; such as their use by paper makers, carriage-makers, &c. ; atid ilieircubstilution for leather, cotton, silk, funs, &c. 8. The eventual exportaiicm of wool, and the manufactured article to foreign countries. That the exportation of wool from the United States ifj not a remote or improbable cvciiit, the policy ofotirown, and foreign nations continu- ingas ibey now are, will satisfactorily appear to intelligent minds, on a slight lnve.«ligatiun. We have as peculiar advantages for the pro- duction of wool in this country : 1. Milliionsot acres of unoccupied land, every way pr«G.ise'ly adapted to this object, a large por- tion of which, is not suited to any other profita- ble production. Thus we have, in addition to the measureless acres of prairie and olherfertile, tillable land in the west and south, the great chain ol the Alleghany, and its collateral mor.n- tains, reaching through twelve degrees of lati- tude and as many ol longiiude, ilironghout near- ly their whole length and breadth, but especially as they recede from the north; all ol which vast piies, apd the innumerable valleys that every- where skin their sides, and which are now en- tirely unused, or occupied only to a very limited extent, are destined, ere long, to the support ot countless flocks. 2- The adaptation of our soil and climate to the growth of a fine .stap'e of wool; and the foregoing together with a dry and rolling su'face of land, and innumerable supplies of fresh wa- ter, which almost everywhere abound, secure to sheep a liealthlul growth, and vigorous consti- tution. 3. The economy of labor in producing wool. The average time of an intelligent, able-bodied man throughout the year, will, on a good farm, well arranged for the purpose, and with suitable fixtures, pi ovide the winter food, and give all the attention required, to a flock of 500 at the north, 600 in the middle, -and probably, even more than this in the southern states. We have examples the present season, of a clioice Saxon flock producing 2^ lbs. of wool each, at an average price of 68 cents, or nearly 82 per head; and of another Merino flock pro- ducing over 5 lbs. per head at 48 cents, or 82.50 each. This would yield, tor the productive la- bor of a single individual, inclusive ot capital foi the flock, land and fixtures, (and many floek- maslcfs consider the lambs a lull equivalent for all these,) from 81)0^0 lo 81,.')00 per annum What other agricultural occupation will firo- duce one ball an mucli'? The above statement i.s predicated on the choicest .sheep; butasthese are as easily supported as t|ie worst, it i.s not presuming to much on the intelligence ot Ame- ricans, to suppose they will not long hesitate to follow where it is rnanil'est their intere.st leads. 4. The cheapness ol transportation. A pound of good wool in the European market is 'worth from 30 to 100 cents, andsoine, when thorough- ly cleansed, even much more than this. Flour and grain is wortii from 2 to 4 cents per lb., and beet, pork cheese, lard, &c., from 5 to 10 cents; and althungh from its increased bulk the former may be cliarged at double the ship-freight ol the iaticr, yet this would .o hardly appreciable in its market value; while, with the othei agricul- tural products, it sometimes reaches beyend 50 per cent, of their v/orth, even in the place ol con- sumption. 5. England is the great wool market lor the vvorhl, and although it is computed she has 50,000,1100 ot slieep, they but partially supply her own manufacturers. And England inann- f'acl ures a vast amount of the finc.st kinds of wool, scarcely a pound of which she raises within her own island territory, tier supply flir a.l this comes from abroad, and alter ilie quantity sent by her Australian and otlier provinces, she will as readily take of tlie United Stales as any fo- reign nation. It is probalile that a large por- tion ol her sheep lands are iinsuited to the pro duction ot fine wool, and it is certain her man agernent and policy are decidedly against it. Food for her millions ot human beings, as well as food for her woollen machinery, is lier object; lienee her policy, and the almost universal prac- tice ol keeping the mutton sheep, the long and middle wools, neither of wliicli can ever make anything but the coarser tabric.s. The dniy now levied on wool in England is but one cent per ih. on its value of 2^1 cents or under, and two cents per lb. on wool costing over 21 cents per lb. 6. The restrictive policy adopted almost throughout Europe, with regard lo our agricul- tural products, while they amount to an entire proliibition of nearly every article of human con- .sumpiioiij .{wliole.some, nutriciou-s, anrl abun- dant food, 'be,i.wg geneially deemed by their rulers artiele.s xif .sup.ertluity lo the ruled,) yet what is essential tollierp; as articles ol traflic or of manufacture, o-ut of yvhich money can be made, as cotton, wool, dtc., they readily admit on favorable terms. A large part of Europe !.■= now so fully .stocked with peopiCj as to be inca- pable of multiplying sheep in the ratio of the demand for their fleeces. And it the peace po- licy is to to be eoniinued there, as weseeno im- probability of its being, its increase of inhabi- tants must soon drive out sheep where they now exist. The ratio of supply will be^ therefore, • inversely as the demand. Where, then, can that deficiency be as well made up ;.s in Ameri- cal and what more rational than for the shep- herds of hundreds there, to transfer their flocks o this country, and become the shepherds ot thousands here 7 With all our peculiar advantages, then, of cheap land, every way adapted in climate, soil, and position, to the healthful maturity of the animal, and the peifection ol the staple of the wool ; the large returns lor the labor bestoweil ; the trifling cost ot transportation ; the incapacity of the largest manufacturing king- dom in the world, (now and always most dearly ami most extensively connected with us in com- merce,) lor raising any of the fine wools, which enter lergely into her consumption ; and finally, the restrictive policy of loreign nations, which exclude our bread-stuffs and eatables, butadmit, wherever they can use them, advantageously, the raw materia) for their manulactures, there is every probability, ere long, ol a large demand lor wool abroad. One word lo our sheep-owners, as to the kind of wool to be grown. The finer you can get the wool, with a large fleece, and good constitu- tion in the animal beating it, the more profit. In the neighborhood of good tnai kets for mutton, there is an exception in lavor ol the mutton sheep lo the extent of the demand tor the car- case. And it is jirobahle there can be thus raised, all the long wools required for our worst- ed stuffs, if not, it will be profitable extending the long wools into the interior, to the lull sup- ply of that demand. But remote from markets, the best Merinos, and most hardy Saxons, are beyond all doubt the most profitable. It will pay liberally to the flock-master, to select the very best the United Slates aflurds, and we could wish, and hope, they may see their own interest in immediatfdy selecting some ol the best speci- mens from the royal tlocksin France andSpain, to refresh and re-invigorale theflock.s, impaired by injudicious mixtures in our own country. It may be proper enough to add, that soil has much to do with the softness and peifection of the fleece, A clay or loamy soil improves the fibre of the wool, making it finer and more soft and pliable; a sandy or silicious, and a calca- reous or limestone soil, renders it stifi'and harsh. The first improves, the la.st deteriorates, not on- ly the fleece ol the individual, but also the pro- geny Tims, time may produce an e.ssential change in the character ot the race, without re- ference to any other consideration, than the quality ot the soil on which they are reared and sustained. Climate, and ihe riitting time, we ought lo look to also, on every philosophical principle, as having an influence on the fibre of wool. No exception ocenrs to us of animals in equatorial regions, possessing a large, close, and line co- vering; and none in the arctic, of .such as have thin, hairy coats. Nature seems lo have made no exceptions to this most rational ami merci- ful arrangement. Should mc not therefore lopir, with every probability, to our finc-woolled sheep sustaining the eharacter of their fleece at liie north, and to a deterioration of the samecl.assat the south, in future generations! We know that the reverse ol this is claimed by some ob- •serviny and intelligerit breeders of much expe- rience, but we apprelicnrt without sutheient data. We can easily conceive of sheep removed soutli- vvard, improving the sofiness ot their fl(?ece from Ihe increased perspiration and yolk thrown into it, from Ihe higher temperature to which they are subjected. But this is a forced and un- natural effect, .vhich nature, hy her .slow yet certain operations, we think, will effectually exert herself in removing from succes.sive gen- eration.s. By talcing advantage of the period (ff conception, and having this take place when Ihe parents are under the influence ol ihe .severest cold ot the climate, which should he continued with the dam during gestation, if possible, m.ay we not expect that the lixitus will have impress- ed upon it, which it will maintain through ils maturity, a constitution and coveringhe.st soiled to the condition of ils incipient cxi.slcnco! — KS&omdaaaaan THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. R,eason, we think, mu.st teach us to look I'or such SL result; and by this nieuns, the prejudi- cial effects of climate may be arrested, or parti- ally postponed ; though in the end, the foremen- tioned result seems inevitable. What but the scorching sun of Alrica has given its present corislitLUion to the negro; and the mildness oj the temperate zones the character and con.stitu- tion of the Circassian and European races'? It is readily admitted, that the inountainous region of the South is not liable to this objection, as their increasing altitude diminishes the tempera- ture, and is a full equivalent to a removal north. Nor do I see any reasonable objection to the rearing ol the line-woolled sheep on the low lands of the south, as any anticipated dete.'iora- tion ot .staple, may be, in a great degree, obvi- ated by the use of bucks reared in the north. Whenthegreat advantage is considered, of the case and economy ol renovating soils and sustaining them in a high degree ot fertility, by the keeping of sheep, I need not urge the .sys- tem upon the intelligent agriculturist. Indeed, where lands have been cropped interminably, with wheat, rye, and corn, at the north, and wheat, corn, tobacco, and cotton, at the south, I know of no other self-sustaining system ol reno- vation, that can be adopted. liime and plaster, where economically obtained, may do it parti- ally, but other manures will be necessary to car- ry out the work of regeneration. Where shall they be procured at a cost that will enable their owners to sustain a .successful competition with (he occuji which is attached to the bridle at the top ot the horse’s head, while the other rests at the pummel of the saddle, or on the splash board or coach box, as the case may be. Running upon the cat-gut part by means of loops, is a short cros.s-piece ol cat-gut, which rests against the windpipe ot the animal, ready to be pulled up against that organ by taking hold ot the nearer end ol ihe rein, A quick and firm pull, to stop the breathing of the animal is all that is necessary to bring him to an in.stantane- ous pause. He may be in a state of panic, and running ofiT with the bit between his teeth in >pite of every ordinary means of checking him ; but no sooner does he feel the stricture on his breath- ing, than he is conscious of being outwitted and nonplussed, and becomes instantly as quiet as a lamb; at the same time he keeps quite firm on his legs-— tha cheek not being by any means calculated to bring him down. On the contrary, the position m which it places the horse, his shoulders being brought up, and being pressed back upon his haunches, the check is indeed eminently calculated to keep him up. A horse in a gig fitted up with a safety rein, was lately paraded belore ourselves in one of the streets of Edinburgh, and the animal was several times in the height of his career (once when coming rap- idly down hill,) brought to asudden stand. We understand that the safety rein is coming rapidly into use; and friends as we are to everything that lends to diminish evil, and promote the con- venience and agreeableness of human life, we cannot but wish to see it in universal applica- tion. We feel assured, that henceforth, by meansof this rein, accidents from running away, or other violent conduct of horses, may be al- together prevcnted.-[C/iti»i/{'«rs’ Edinburgh Jour. From Uie American Agriculturist. THE POLICY OF AMERICAN FARMERS.— No. I. Iflhe farmers of the Enited Stales arc ever to reap the full benefit ot their labor, they mu.sl do something beyond raising the largest aniount ol products, at the least amount of expense. An enlarged and comprehensive view of our cir- cumstances and commerce as a nation, and its internal and foreign relations, and a general, systematic, and concerted action, on the part of lire agricultural iiuerests, founded upou '>ucu inlorriiatiun, is indispensable to their realizing all the advantages to which they are entitled. — We see this intelligent and embodied effort in eveiy other prolEssion and craft; the clergy, act- ing through regular and frequent assemblies, for the more efectual pi’omulion of their more benevolent objects; the physicians, associating for the protection of their profe.ssiun under law, and .securing to it the highest amount of intelli- gence; the lawyers, in controlling legislation so as to secure to the profession the largest bill of fees; the mercantile and commercial inieresl.s, by their boards of commerce and other active and well remunerated agents, influencing national laws and commercial regulations tor their own benefit; the manufacturing and mechanical in- terests, by concerted movements, effecting the same objects lor their own pursuits; and even the laboring classes, by the well-drilled and effi- cient strikes, not unlreqiiently compelling an at- tention to their own iiitere.sls, beyond their in- trinsic merits. The farmers, it is true, are well, indeed amply, protected by an impost on the ob- jects of cultivation in tins country sufficient to exclude every article they are now engaged in producing. The staple productions, grain, veg- etables, beef, pork, cotton, &c., have always been fully protected, and by the late tariff the duties have been so increased on wool, hemp, silk, and some other products, to which Ameri- cans have been recently turning an increased attention, that they can now defy competition from abroad. It is not the want ol higher du- ties on their crops, which they now require ; it is a well-organized, efficient, intelligent, central board, supported by funds from the general go- vernment, which, procuring information from every portion of our wide-spread union, and from every foreign nation, with which we can have any profitatde traffic, will be enabled to suggest new and profitable objects of cultivation; give additional value to such as are already receiving attention, and mature and communicate for ac- ceptance, such modifications ol adopted sys- tems, as the constantly varying circumstance s of the country require. Such a board was re- commended by the illustrious Washington, in his last message to Congress, Dec. 7, and had his wise counsel been at that time adopted, and elikieiitly carried out to the pre.seni lime, we might confidently have looked for a succe.ss and intelligence in American agriculture, far beyond anyiiiiug that the world can now exhibit. That the creation of such a board, is at any time within the power of our landed interests, is clearly manifested in the tact, iliat every officer ol our government, legislative or executive, is either directly or indueeily elected by the popu- lar vote, and at least two-lhirds ot this vote is given by those whose entire support is derived from agriculture, and one-halt of the remaining third is under their controlling influence, so that not less than five-sixths ol the popular voice can be brought to bear in favor of any measure cal- culated to promote Hits object, Tne neglect, hitherto, to secui’e the rightful interests ot this great pursuit, evinces an apathy and indiffer- ence, alike discreditable to the ituelligence and patriotism ol the agricultural community. R. Improved Farming in Virginia. — Mr. H. R. liobbey, near Fredericksburg, Va,, gives us the following favorable account of tne effect of agricultural papers in improving tne husband- ry ol its neighborhood: " When 1 commenced iarming, 1 determined to try the new .system of husbandry, because I savv the old plan would not do; tanners were all going backwards, or getting poorer every year; iny new neighbors laughed at me, wnen they saw me occupying •so much of my lime in hauling mud and sods from the swamps to put in my manure pile, and asked where 1 gut llial uolioii from. My reply was, from the Culiivator. They laughed still more, and called me the book farmer, said i would soon find out my folly, and go back ui the good old custom, as they call it. Many of those men have acknowledged since, that I have been pursuing the right plan. 1 have now eight bar- rels ol Corn growing, where six yeans ago one barrel could not be grown; and all my infor- mation has been derived from agricultural pa- pers. Some of iny neighbor's, for two or three years past, have been taking the Cultivator, and you can perceive an improvement upon their farms already. They are now not content to put up with the bare necessaries of life, A spirit of improvement seems to have taken hold ollhem; they begin to cultivate improved va- rieties of fruit lor market and their families ; thus adding profit and pleasure, where neither could be found belore they began to read agri- cultural papers.”— A/k CuUivoAor. Wool Growing and Cotton Manufactu- ring IN Missis, sippi. — The following is from the Natchez Courier of the 11th uU; “ We v.'ere yesterday shown, by our valued friend, Samuel 'I'. McAllister, E-sq., a couple of samples of Wool sent to him by Mr. James Brown of Yazoo county. The Wool was of the finest, softest texture, far .surpassing any we have ever seen. We were surprised when told that such an article had been raised in Mi-ssis- sippi, where, until the lew years past, but little attention had been given to such products, the cultivation of Cotton ha^ingoccupied the entire time of our farmers. Mr. Brown sends Mr. McAllister a bale ol Wool weighing 400 lbs. of excellent quality, which fie desires to ex- change lor Cotton Goods of Mr. M.’s manufac- ture, and writes that he will be able in a few months to send him another bale of Wool of superior quality. “ft is certainly pleasing to sec that ourplant- ersare beginning to take an interest in Mr. McAlistei’s enterpri.se of manufacturing, and to see what advantage pratronizing him will be to them. Mr. M. is progressing finely with his factory, having as much employment as his force can despatch, and making various articles of a quality inferior to none in the Union.” f, THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. rRE.MIU.MS FOR TUB BEST MAN.VGBD FARMR. To the Editor of the Marlborough Gazette. Having already received notice fiom two gen- tlemen, competitors, addressed to me as first named of a committee to award the premium oflered for the best managed farm in the county, it seems proper that I should state, in this the most convenient form to all parties, that it will not be in my power to undertake the trust with which the Agricultural Society ol Prince 'ieorge’s has honored me. I am not the less gratelul for the compliment which such an ap- pointment conveys, for it assuredly impiiesa be- lief that the persons so delegated have not only taken a deep interest in the general subject of ag- riculture, but that their fondness for it and con- viction of its paramount importance, has led them toin'iUire into and reflect upon what con- sti.tutes good managemoi', both as to principles and practical details. It is not easy to imagine any duty that re- quires better judgment or more unyielding im- partiality than that of awarding suck a premium. How many things are to be considered! The extent of the farm to be compared, not only with others, but with the resources at the command of the proprietor — such as capital in money, in la- bor, in natural fertilizers, and in elements requi- site for compounding manures, &c. The time the farm has been in possession of its present proprietor, with its original and present condi- tion, and in that connection what hav'e been his extraneous aids and facilities, and how far iiu provements have resulted from his own sagacity and forethought, or from the knowledge and ex- perience of his manager — for the manager some- times makes heavy crops under an improving system of husbandry, not by the directions, but in spite of the owner. All these and many other things are to be taken into the account, and, after all, there will be lia- bility to error, as well from overlooking import- ant facts, as from giving undue weight to minor considerations; still, with such colleagues as were on that committee, I would, if my duties here would permit, most gladly have joined in the inspection of the farms to which they are in- vited, expecting to derive, not only peculiar pleasure in visiting their proprietors, but much inlorraation from observing their practice, and fi'om being associated with gentlemen of so much experience and judgment. Indeed, it is difficult to conceive any thing more agreeable and recre- ating to a passionate amateur of the country, and all that belongs to country life, than would be a comparison of the claims of competitors for such premiums. The thorough sifting that should be given to the candidate would be a caution to all indolent and tmthinkhig planters ! The cate- chism should he begun by a close examination of his personal agency in the concern, to know how much of the results were the fruits of his owu thoughts and directions. But that agency is not always to be measured by the time of a man’s rising, or the constancy of hi.s presence on the farm. There are some men who have things so systematized, that they can manage better when 3ick,.or occasionally from home, than others who rise before day and are “fretting and fuming” from morning to night. The gentleman, Col. N. Bosley, of Hayfields, w’ho took the premium “presented by the hands of General Lafayette,” for the best managed farm of that year, was half his time bed-ridden, and had no overseer; but he knew every day what was doing, w here it was doing, how it was doing, and why— yes, and that’s the great ipoint— why that particular thing was being done at that particular time. He made an independent fortune with hay as his •Staple, on a very hilly, stony farm, sixteen miles from Baltimore. I had lately, by special invitation, and by the kind permission of my Boss, the satisfaction to dine at Indian Hill, the premium farm of Mas- sachusetts, to the proprietor of which the pre- mium was awarded, not only for the best managed farm, but for the best specimen of under draining, and the best system of keeping farm accounts. Who might not be prouder of such premiums ) than of military achievements, and sometimes negative service without achievements,for which our wise, thoughtful, republican Government, representing two-thirds farmers, awards the high- est honors, the largest life salaries, hospitals, pen- sions, (f‘C. The proprietor of that farm, where I met some of the most accomplished agriculturists of Mas- sachusetts, is half the year absent in the South. But he has things so set down and systematized, that he is constantly and exactly informed of what is going on. Every man is numbered, and every job of work to be done is numbered, and he knows that on a given day number so and so was at work on job No. 7, or 3, or 2, as the case maybe. His people all rise at five, A. M., by the ringing of a bell, as in a ship or a factory; and breaklast by candle light, he taking his seat, when at home, at the head of their breakfast table, just to see that all are there, and that rill is right. Alter all is fairly under way, he is ready lor his own family breakfast table, where, as well as throughout the house, you find a neatness, good order, and abundance, corresponding with if not even excelling the out-door management. In fact, the neighbors do hint that “tv.'o heads are better than one !” Certain it is, that I never saw a more unique, antique, venerable looking man- sion outside, nor one in which reigns a more charming air of quiet order, good management, and domestic taste and harmony. To economize time, even the kindling is in the kitchen “the overnight.” The hash is ready only to be “warmed up,” and breakfast with coffee is all ready fer the laborers in the “twink- ling ol an eye” alter the bell rings at five. The laborers — willing, steady, and constant — are all white men, generally Scotch, sometimes Irish, hired by the month. On that point 1 refer to his answers to questions propounded by the Society. When all is going on, as it goes every day, as smooth as clockwork, Mr. Poore, rich “in all the qualities that give assurance of a man,” is then ready to take his family or his guest, as he did me, in his coach and “four in hand,” and that in his own nand of preference, ■ ny where over delightful roads and a magnifi- cent country at the rate of eight miles an hour! 1 only mention it to show that “best manage- ment” does not imply eternal drudgery, and the absence of all social enjoyment. At Indian Hill farm, as on every farm in New England, there is a place for everything and everything is in its place. You don’t see a bridle on the ground here and a swingletree in another place ; sheep skins and sometimes the sheep themselves eaten up by dogs, and harness lying out in the weather; axes scattered here and hoes every where ; carts broken and doors and gates off the hinges ; ne- groes hunting here and there for the spade, or for him that had it last, to know where he lelt it; galled horses with clogs on (heir feet and yokes on their necks; and oxen, as I this morning ac- tually saw a yoke in Washington, one palling one way and the other the other way with all his might, with a negro on each side armed with sticks to drive them from one side to the other. There (in New England) one yoke does at least as much as three do here. They are all fat enough for beef the year round, and are driven rather by signs and with very light whips than by violence. One must go to New England to have an idea of the power, the docility, and the great usefulness ol a single yoke of oxen. At Poughkeepsie, in the plowing match, there were seven single span of oxen and two of horses started for the premium, each managed by a plowman without a driver; thenrize was taken by a span of oxen I The whip of the plowman was lighter than the beach noitches, which 1 remember well, and to my great terror were kept standing in the corner of a log-cabin school-house in Calvert county, under the dread government of the never-to-be-forgotton Ptobert Spicknali. How much 1 should have been gratified could our committee, witli the estimable and efficient Secretary of the Society, have been with me to witness many things that I saw on an almost literally flying visit to Massachusetts and New York. I could “spin a yarn” worth hearing out ofit, if! had time; one that might make the woof and the web of an address, for which I see “by the papers” I have been “set down” for your next meeting; but close confinement here, and the disordered state of my health, will not allow me to comply with the wishes of the socie- ty in that respect. Among other places, I made a visit to Marsh- field, and there ate chowder, made chiefly of cod- fish, taken in the “deep wa'ers of the dark blue sea,” by the hand, hook and line ol the great American commoner himself. Arriving before dinner he took us first ihrougt his cornfield, by way ot an appetiser, and what with the thickness of the corn and the number of the pumpkins on the ground, you might as well have been dragged through a Mississippi cane- brake. I could not help thinking what glorious music a good pack of hounds would make in it, in pursuit of a gray fox or a wild cat. A large portion of the field would undoubtedly yield eighty bushels of corn to the acre, and yet corn of the same height with us would not produce twelve bushels. Mr. W. was proud and had reason to be of his large field of '■^swedes,” his twelve beautiful heifers, and ol his Southdown sheep, of the stock he selected in England, ot which he generously tendered as many as I would accept, which was a buck and two ewes, to go into Prince George’s county. But of all things he seemed to be fondestof and most fami- liar with hisnuble oxen! some six or eight yoke, that would average, in the shambles, at least twelve hundred. He seemed, loo, to felicitate himself particularly in the shade of a venerable SiOfi magnificent elm near his house, Rcligirme patrum vmltos servataper annos,” its graceful branches extending over a diameter of a hundred feet. You will receive in this hasty letter the an- swers of iMr. Poore, of Indian Hill, to the ques- tions propounded by the Society. It is probable that many of your readers will peruse them with as much benfit, if not interest, as they would do — some other things. Respectfully, J. S. Skinnee. EXTRACT From Mr. Whipple’s Address before the Merrimack Co. Agricultural .Society, at Warner, N. H. Oct. 14. “We are very much in the habit of cultiva- ting too much land. Certain it is that one acre well cultivated and richly manured, will pro- duce more than two acres indifferently cultiva- ted— and then you save about half the labor — a very important item. The farms in this coun- ty and in the Slate, now under cultivation, are capable ol producing, by proper and judicious managemennt, from 25 to50 per cent, more than the present yield. I think I do not exaggerate in my estimate. There is one store in Concord which sells annually twenty thousand barrels of flour. Suppose th t is one-filth part of the quantity sold in the State— then there would be one hundred thousand barrels of flour consumed yearly. Estimate this at the lowest price, say S5 per barrf»], and you have the sum of S500,000 expended for the single article of flour, beside the other gram which is brought into the State. Could you believe this? Half a million of dol- lars is yearly paid from this State, for bread stuff raised western farmers. Certain I am from inquiry, that the estimate I have made is small. “You ought to raise your own bread stuffs; you might easily supply the wants of every con- sumer in the State. There is no reason, no excuse why we should be dependent upon our western farmers for such an immense amount of bread stuffs. We have soils well adapted for the growth of every kind of grain, and we as farmers, areas capable of producing large crops as the farmers of neighboring States. That there should be such a deficiency for our home consumption, is altogether unaccountable. We ought to encourage our sons and young men to remain here on the beautiful hills and vallies of our own native State and cultivate our lands, instead ol advising them to go W est. It is a THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 7 rnislakea noiioD, that young men can do better West than they can do here. We have lands enough in this State, it properly divided, to give labor to double the present population. VVe have advantages here that you cannot have in the western country; and all that is wanted is a contented mind and a determination to make our own New Hampshire a vender of bread stuffs rather than a purchaser. There is something radically wrong in suffering such an import ot bread stuffs into this State; and by you, gentlemen farmers, the wrong must be righted. We have water power here that will make us independent, if we only cultivate the soil and supplv the wants of the consumers who are engaged in our manufacturing establish- ments." \Ve shall always find a ready market for everything that the farmer raises.” From the Albany Cultivator. THE OLIVE. Messrs. Editors; — Dr. Qlin, describing the soil and productions of Palestine, speaks thus of the olive : “ But this is the proper region for the olive and the vine. Anciently, these hills were co- vered with orchards of Ifuit trees and vineyards, and the world does not, probably, produce finer grapes, figs and olives, than are annually ga- thered about Hebron and Bethlehem. One acre of the flinty surface of the Mount of Olives, carefully tended in olive trees, would yield more, through the e.vchanges of commerce, towards human subsistence, than a much larger tract of the richest Ohio bottom tilled in corn. Most persons know little of the variety and impor- tance of the uses to which the fruit of the olive is applied in the Eastern nations and in some of the Southern countries ot Europe. Large quan- tities of the berries are used by the inhabitants, and exported as food; but the principal value ot the olive consists in die delicious oil that is extracted from its fruit. This is used upon the table and in cookery, as the substitute for both butter and lard. It is universally burned in lamps, and instead of candles, which are nearly unknown in the east. It is the principal mate- rial used in making soap.” — Olln's Trav.h, Vol. II., p. 430. Mr. Jefferson, in 1787, wrote as follows: “ The olive is a tree the least known in Ame- rica, and yet the most worthy of being known. Of all the gifts of Heaven to man, it is next to the most precious, if it be not the most precious. Perhaps it may claim a preference even to bread, because there is such an infinitude of vegetables which it renders a proper and comfortable nou- rishment. In passing’ the Alps, at the Col de Tende, where there are mere masses of rock, wherever there happens to be a little soil, there are a number of olive trees, and a village sup- ported by them. Take away these trees, and the same ground in corn, w'ould not support a single family. A pound ot oil, which can be bought for three or lour pence sterling, is equi- valent to many pounds of flesh, by the quantity ot vegetables it will prepare and render fit and comfortable food. Without this tree, the coun- try ot Provence and the territory of Genoa would not support one halt, perhaps notone-third, their present inhabitants. The nature of the soil is ot little consequence, if the soil be dry.” “In Italy, I am told, they have trees ot twc hundred years old. They afford an easy and constant employment through the year, and re- quire so little nourishment, that if the soil be fit lor any other production, it may be cultivated among the olive trees without injuring them.” “Notwithstanding the great quantities of oil made in France, they have not enough for their own consumption, and therefore import from other countries. This is an article, the oon- su.mption of which will always keep pace with its production. Raise it, and it begets its own demand. Cover the southern States with it, and every man will become a consumer of oil, within whose reach it can be brought, in point ot price. If the memory of those persons is held in great respect in South Carolina, who in- troduced there the culture of rice, a plant which sows life and death with almost equal hand, what obligations wmuld be due to him who should introduce the olive tree, and set the ex- ample of its culture 1” — Mr. Jefferson's letter to Tko mas Drayton, dated Paris, July 30, 1787. “I am persuaded there are many parts of our lower country where the olive tree might be raised, which is assuredly the richest gilt of Heaven. I can scarcely except bread. 1 see this tree supporting thousands among the Alps, where there is not soil enough to make bread for a single family.” — Mr. Jefferson's letter to Mr. Wythe, dated Paris, Sept. IG, 1787. Here is surely ample testimony as to the es- timation in which the olive was held in modern times, by those acquainted with its uses. It evidence is wanting as to the estimation in which the ancients held it, we have only to refer to the frequent mention made ot it in the histo- rical parts of the Bible, and the beautiful allu- sions to it so frequent by the Hebrew poets — to the beautiful fictions among the Greeks about its origin, one of which is mentioned by Apol- lodorus Alheniensis, who tells us how, in the reign of Cecrops, Neptune, smiting the earth with his trident, made the sea flow at his leet, how Minerva, determined to outdo his marine godship in beneficence, called on Cecrops to bear witness to what she was going to do, and made an olive tree spring from the ground ; how these divinities quarreled about the value of their respective gifts to Attica, and Jupiter, to settle it, appointed twelve gods to determine the question, which august jury of divinities gave a verdict in favor ot Minerva; and to the rank as- signed to it by Collumella among the Romans, as being the first among trees. Yet in the whole of the Qnited States, I know of but two or three in- stances, in which attempts have been made to introduce the culture of this tree. Long ago, indeed, the colony ot Greeks settled at New Smyrna, in E. Florida, had planted the olive, and only sixty years ago there were large trees marking the site of that settlement. Recently, AJr. Cooper, of St. Simons, and Mr. Spalding, ofSapelo, Georgia, have triedits cultivation, I think, with success; and in the garden of Mr. Rose, at .Macon, I saw recently a flourishing tree which had thus far withstood the winters there. 1 suppose the general impression that it would not endure, without injury, the cold of our winters, has deterred cultivators from turn- ing their aUeniion to it; as it is known that-the severe winter ot 1807 destroyed a large part of the olive trees in the south ot France ; and as it is known too, that Humboldt, in his essay on the geographical distribution of plants had set down the olive as requiring a climate with a mean temperature of 57 deg. 17 m., the greatest cold being 41 deg. 5 m. Mr. Jefferson, how- ever, says that when killed by frost, it will spring up again from the roots ; so also says Mr. Hill- house; and such is the experience ot Mr. Spalding and Mr. Cooper. If the varieties cul- tivated in France were the only ones to be had, even their comparative tenderness ought not to be an objection to attempting their cultivation here. For all experience shows, and philoso- phy teaches, that plants of temperate climates, in time, by frequent reproduction from seed, adapt themselves to colder climates, in which, at first, they invariably perished. The Melia Azedarach furnishes a familiar illustration of this fact; and applying to the well known cha- racteristics of the olive tree, the first and second of the laws of temperature, with respect to its influence on vegetation, as laid down by M. De Candolle, we may confidently conclude there- Irom that it will adapt itself to cur climate even sooner than the Melia. Happily, however, there are varieties to which this objection cannot be made. “ In the southern part of the Crimea, which lies between the latitude of 44 deg. and 46 deg. two varieties ot olives have been discovered, which have ex- isted there for centuries. They yield great crops and resist the frost.” “These olives have been cultivated in the R.oyal Imperial Garden of Nikita, to preserve and multiply the specie.s, with plants which had been received from Pro/ence, and have endured the rigorous winters of 1825 and 1826, while those of Provence, in the same exposure, perish- ed even to the root. Measures have been re- cently taken in France for the introduction into that country of these two precious varieties, which are capable of resisting ten or twelve de- grees of cold below the zero of Reaumur’s ther- mometer— equal to five degrees above the zero of Fahrenheit.”— Kenrick’s Amer. OrchardAst, "id ed., p. 333. The nurserymen of the United States incur great expense in introducing such exotics as the Cedar of Lebanon, Garoga elyptica, Paulow- nia imperialis, Pinus deodara, &c. &c. : — all of w'hich ate very beautilul trees; but when they are said to be very beautiful and very rare, all is said of them that can be, wdth truth, except that they are very expensive. It is true that purchasers are found who are willing to pay high prices for them ; and in this, those who import them, find their remuneration. By in- curring an expense, not more, it is believed, than has been incurred in the introduction of any of the exotics above named, the olive of Nikita may be introduced. And if it stand the rigor of our climate, as it does that of its native region, ma}' we not hope to see it, in a few years, spreading over the southern States, add- ing to the comforts and the wealth of our peo- pled Once introduced, its propagation is a matter so very simple, that it may be easily dis- seminated to any extent in a very short time. Such men as Dr. Cloud, of Alabama, Dr. Phil- lips and Mr. Afiicek, of Mississippi, I would suppose would not rest until they secured the introduction of the olive into their States, re- spectively. Mr. Affleck, especially, will surely not consider Ingleside complete, until an olive grove shall have been added to his establish- ment. Dampier and Lord Anson, the former as far back as 1688, had described the Bread Fruit, as a most invaluable production of the Ladrone Islands. In 1787, persons in London, interested in the West India Islands, prevailed on the King of Great Britain to order a ship to be fit- ted out at the expense of the nation, lor the pur- pose of introducing the Bread Fruit as an ar- ticle of food, into the Vvest India Islands. The first voyage, under Lieut. Bligb, wms a failure. But the object was ul'^mately accomplished. The result, from some cause or other, did noj answer the expectations of those who had taken an interest in it; yet they never regretted ha- V ing made the effort, nor the charge made by it on the public treasury. Is it not a matter of higher importance to the southern States of our confederacy that the Nikita olive should be pro- cured at the public expense'? Look over the list of seeds and plants brought home by the Ex- ploring Expedition — estimate the whole at the highest value that can properly be setupon them, and altogether, so far as real utility is concern- ed, they are not equal to the value of the Niki- ta olive. Yet how they are cherished — with what care and expense they are preserved ! The government of Great Britain incurs heavy ex- penses to introduce the Bread Fruit into the West India Islands; the government of France takes measures to introduce the Nikita olive into that country. Shall our government, es-^ tablished in all its branches, on principles of utility, and professing to be regulated in all its movements, exclusively by these principles, lag behind the old and decaying monarchies of Europe in enterprises like these? Shall it be said that in our republic, its exploring expedi- tions, undertaken professedly for the public good, shall belie the character of all our institu- tions, by preferring, in their collections, articles of show to those of utility? Jxs. Caiixk. Athens, Ga., March 10, 1344. fl^The Baltimore American says, the Post-Office Committee in the House of Rep- resentatives, it is believed, will present a bill reducing the rates of letter postage iofiveznd ten cents, for distances under and over one hundred miles. 8 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. ®l)e 0outl)ern (HultiDator. august^cTa. WEDNESDAY, JAiIMJAKY 1, 1845. Those Agricultural ioMtmXs with which we exchange will oblige us by directing to us at Athens in luture. Together with the gratulations appropriate to the season, we present to our friends the first number of the third volume of the Southern Cultivator. The tavor with which the two pre- ceding volumes have been regarded, encourage us to entertain high hopes for the future, that our efforts ir aid ol Southern Agriculture may have some agency in redeeming il from the reproach- es it has had to submit to, in times past, and in awakening those engaged in it to a sense of their true interests. Why do Southern fields and Southern rural dwellings so generally wear the aspect of e.x- haustion and dilapidation? The cause is to be sought for, certainly, neither in our climate nor our soil. For the climate of the Southern States — of Georgia, especially— is, beyond all question, the most delightful, in every respect, in the world. Travellers who have visited the south of France and Italy bear testimony to its superiority to the climates of those couni ries. Scientific gentlemen have recorded their obser- vations in proof of the same fact. The late Professor Nicollet, had, in the service of the French Government, before he came to Geor- gia, visited nearly all the climates of the earth. He had no hesitation in declaring his prefe- rence ol the climate of Middle Georgia to all others he knew anything of. And M. Valney, many years ago, stated without qualification that die climate of the United States, on the 35th de- gree of N. latitude, was, according to his experi- ence, Lhe best in the world. To all this may be added the uniferm testimony of every Southern man who goes abroad, and, from personal ob- servation, makes a comparison between other climes and our own. And what a soil originally I Leave out of the comparison the alluvions of the Mississippi valley, and the Southern States, as regards na- tive soil, were not surpassed by any other coun- try:—and even now, after years of butchery, by careless and unskilful hands, in the means of improvement, and the facility of their applica- tion, and the certainty of success, the South is surpassed by few other lands under the sun. No one need hesitate one moment about the re- suscitation of his soil. The means are at hand, it he will but make an intelligent search for them. The marl of the tide-water region, the clay and green sand of the middle country, the lime and plaster of the mountain district, and the luxuriant vegetation so peculiar to Southern climes, supply the means of improvement in ample abundance. What country is there that can boast of so great a variety of useful and valuable pro- ductions in the same extent of territory. In Georgia, for instance, we have rice and sea is- land cotton and sugar on the sea coast; cotton and wheat, tobacco and silk, if we choose, in the middle country; wheat, gold, iron, coal, lime, plaster, and marble among the mountains ; corn everywhere. On the whole earth, can this be equalled? And how have these signal advantages been improved by our people? Let our worn-out fields and deserted homesteads answer, proving too conclusively that where nature is overboun- tiful, man is sure to be a spoiled child. The time has come, and now is, w'hen the old prac- tices which have led to this state of things must cease. Our planters must put in practice anew system of domestic economy. The present rales of profit on capital invested ia agriculture will not allow of indulgences for the future like those we have enjoyed in times past. Comparative exemption from care, trusting to agents, buying luxuries and even food from abroad, unskilful and slovenly cultivation, clearing new land and wearing it out— all these things must have an end. Planters who intend to bid defiance to the sheriff, and expect to be able to look poverty in the face without dismay, must look closely alter their own affairs, depending on their own skill and energy in the management of them; must dispense with mere luxuries; must make at heme their own food and clothing; must apply themselves to collecting all the information they can get about the best modes of reclaiming and cultivating land; and to putting into rigid prac- tice what they shall thus learn. Depend upon it, this change has to be made, and the sooner it is begun by all, the better will it be for all. And when it shall have been accomplished — when our planters shall properly esteem the impor- tance of their pursuit, remembering the estimate that one thousand millions of men depend on it for sustenance, that nine-tenths of the fixed capi- tal ol the civilized world is vested in it, and that they are a part of the twohundred millions ol men whose daily toil is spent in its operations; — when they shall adopt and act on the idea that plants are living bodies, requiring food for their sus- tenance and proper development, just as much as animals do : — when they shall distinctly un- derstand that, the problem they have to soh'e, is, how to get the greatest possible amount ol produce from an acre of ground, with the least possible outlay of labor, and the least possible amount of injury to the soil: — when our plan- ters shall understand all this, shall steadily pur- sue the course that is forced upon them by this understanding, and by the present state of the agricultural markets of the world, and shall have put into practice the system of domestic economy suited to the new condition in which they are finding themselves placed, the sun will not shine on a more productive soil, nor on a happier or more thrifty people. There is everything to encourage our plan- ters in undertaking this reformation. No prin- ciple is better established, than that a soil ori- ginally fertile, though exhausted, may be easily, not only restored to its original fertility, but may be even pushed far beyond that point. It is true in theory, and is also true in practice. The success of the Flemish system ol husbandry, both at home and in the county of Norfolk, Eng- land, and the experiments of Von Voght in Germany, prove what may be done even with barren soil. In England, every thirty-four acres of land has now to produce food for twenty peo- ple; yet Mr. Smith, of Deanston, a practical man, the inventor of the subsoil plow, says, “it is not at all improbable that Britain may be- come an exporting country in grain, in the course of the next twenty years.” And we have the authority ot Alison for saying that the in- troduction of the garden culture of Flanders, and the terraced culture of Tuscany throughout En- gland, would at once double the already enor- mous production of her soil. In Virginia, the emigrants from New York are rapidly reviving the poorest worn-out lands of some of the poor- est counties. Already some of our planters in Georgia are making ten bales of cotton to the hand on lands that had been exhausted. Nine- ty-six and a quarter bushels of corn have been gathered irom one acre in Hancock county. In- deed, no man has yet attempted to prescribe a limit to the productive powers of the soil. Add to this, the fact that agriculture is rich in the trophies science has conquered for it, during the last lew years. In nothing is the present age more remarkable, than in the improvements science has made in the commonest implements, and the light it has thrown around the common- est processes. For instance, how best to stock a plow— the best shape for the share and mould- board — [he direction of the line of draught from the collar— the angle a hoe should make with its handle — why wheat will not thrive best on food that suits corn—the comparative value of food for cattle, in reference to the products of milk, cheese, butter, or iat — the nature of rust in wheat. There was a time when such things were thought to be beneath the di,gnity of sci- ence. But that time is past. Science is now beginning to be esteemed, by the tillers ol the ground, as it really is— the refinement of com- mon sense, guided by enlightened experience. And the time is rapidly approaching when it will accomplish for agriculture as much as it has done for commerce and manufactures, through its most wonderful agent the steam en- gine. To aid, as far as may be in its power, in bringing about this most desirable state of things, will be the constant endeavor of the Cul- tivator. How far we shall succeed depends, in a good degree, on those to whose service our exertions are to be devoted. No man likes to work for thankless employers: neither will any man worK for nothing, if he can help it. We don’t plead exemption, in this respect, from the common feeling. If, therefore, the planters of the South expect to derive full benefit from this publication, they must sustain it zealousl}' by both word and deed. We will do our duty faithfully, to the best of our ability, trusting confidently that the reciprocal duty of the pub- lic will be as faithfully discharged. THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. Planters’ Club of Hancock County. It gives us great pleasure indeed to publish, as we do in this number, the account of the late Fair ot the Planters’ Club of Hancock County. This Club, we believe, was the first that was form- ed in this State, and the result of its efforts thus far, is certainly such as ought to induce plan- ters in other counties to iorm similar associa- tions. Near one hundred bushels of corn ga- thered from one acre ! It is not long since such a product was thought to be utterly impossible in Georgia. Now there can be no doubt about it; the Club have awarded a premium for the production of ninety-six and one-quarter bu- shels ; and we do not at all doubt that in less than five years, the members of this same Club, continuing their enlightened efforts for the im- provement of their county, will be called upon to award a premium lor the production of over one hundred and Jifty bushels to the acre. We felicitate the Club on their determination to include pork and wool hereafter in the list of objects to be presented for premiums. This is exactly as it should be, and will lead the way in Georgia, we have no doubt, to a state of things in which we shall not be dependant on others for these articles of prime necessicy. Need we suggest to the intelligent members of the Club, that in undertaking to produce wool, the very first movement must be to ex- terminate the whole race of rascally dogs with which the country is infested from Dan to Beer- sheba. We have known attempts at wool-grow- ing fail utterly from not doing this one thing. The Clubs of Hancock, Greene and Morgan, are, we believe, the only ones at present in the State. But we confidently expect that in a very few years, almost every county in the State will have its club, and that all of them will be but branches of a great STATE AGRICUL- TURAL SOCIETY. In Kohl’s Travels in Ireland, page 115, Har- per’s edition, there is a reference to the uses to which sea-weed is applied by the People on the coast of Antrim. “One kind of a sea-weed,” he says, “much liked for manure, is the La- minaria digitata, called sea-wrack, which is considered so serviceable, especially lor pota- toes, that it is a saying in Antrim that a sack of sea-wrack wfill make a sack of potatoes; al- though, in general, it is rather the quality than the quantity of this useful root that is im- proved by it. After every storm on this coast, the people come dowm in crowds from the moun- tains, to gather the sea-wrack for their potatoes, and in calm weather they run out far into the sea, and cut it under the water with sickles. Some- times they take the little mountain horses in with them; but when the shore is too rocky for this, they lade their own human backs with the salt dripping manure.” It must occur to every one on reading this account, that the efficacy of this manure, in im- proving the quality of the potatoe, must be ow- ing to the salt it contains. If this be so, the application of common salt wfiih the manure usually applied, at the time of planting, must have a good effect. It is, at all events, worth .the lime and trouble of making the experiment, to know what the efliect of the application will be in our climate. As the time for planting the Irish potatoe is approaching, may we not hope that experiments will be made, and that the re- sult will be made known to the public through the medium of the Cultivatoiv COUNTII'iG-IIOUSE CAEEi\"i>Aii FOE Hemp.— It has long been a matter of surprise to us that the culture of hemp was not attempt- ed on the rich lands of northwestern Georgia. What we know of these lands compels us to be- lieve that success must certainly attend the at- tempt whenever made. With a desire to aid those who may think of trying it, we intend to publish in the next number of the Cultivator, an essay on the culture of hemp, and its pre- paration lor market, by the Hon. Henry Clay, of Kentucky. This will be followed by Judge Beatty’s prize essay on the same subject, and various other papers, until nothing stiall be left that is necessary to a full understanding of the whole matter. There is great encouragement just now to un- dertake the culture, in the fact that the old te- dious and laborious process ot braking by the hand is about to be superseded, by a machine recently invented, by which, with an ordinary horse power, four hands can brake 200 lbs. per hour. The machine is called “Butler’s Hemp Brake,” and can be bought in Nashville, Tenn., for twenty dollars. For the Southern Cultivator. Mr. Editor: — 1 herewith send to you the form ot an abbreviated Almanac, which you might believe appropriate foran insertion in the first number of your third volume. It presents a facility of reference, which no other that I have ever seen does. The calculaiions have been made by myself, and I will guarantee its cor- rectness. You can, however, dispose of it as you may think proper. Very respectfully, Yours, Thomas Gaillard. Claiborne, Ala., November 20, 1814. ALMANAC TO A. D., 1900. MONTHS. Sunday Monday- . . . . Tuesday .... f 3 ■< Frid-ay Thursday. . . X 3 p" < months. i I Sunday Monday ll t 1 cL \ zr < 1 (J2 P CP < Jan’y.. ( 1 2, 3 July., 1 1 21 3 4 5 5 6 7 8 9110 11 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 12 13 14 15 W17 18 13 14 15 16 17,18 19 19 20 21 22 23i24 25 20 21 22I23 24 •..5 26 26; 27 28 29 30131 27 28 29,30 31 Feb’y.. Aug.. . 1 2 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 3 4 5 6 7 9 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 16 17 18 19 20I2I 22 17 18 19 20 21 22 ■23 2.3 24 25 26 27128 24 25 26i27 28,29 30 March. ■ 31 2 o 4 5 6 7 Sept . 1 2 3 4 5 6 9 to 11 12 13 14 15 7 8 9 10 11 le 13- 16 17 18 19 •20 21 22 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 23 24 25 26 27 2S 29 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 30 31 28 29 30 April,. 1 2 .3 4 5 Oct 1 2 3 4 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 5 6 7 8 9 lOUl 13 1II15 16 17:18 19 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 20 21 ^3 24; 25 26 19 20 2l;22 ■23 24 25 27 23129 3C 26 27 28i29 30 31 May . . . 1 2 3 Nov .. 1 4 5 7 8 9 10 2 3 4 1 ^ 6 7 8 11 12 :\3 14 15!l6 17 9 10 11 12 13 1415 18 dt ■20 21 2212; 24 16 17 19 20i2l '22 *25 26 :27 28 29 3( 31 23 24 25-26 •27 23 29 1 30 June ., 1 ' 2 1 -3 4 5 6 7 ‘Dec . . 1 2] 3 4 C ' 6 8 ' It n 12 1; 14 7 8 91 KJ 11 1 13 1.' 16 :17 18 19 20 2 1 14 15 16 17 IS 19 20 22 2.: ;24 2o 26 27 2S 21 22 23 24 •25 26127 29 3L ! 2S 29 :.30l3l 1 si cd ■3 a '3 ■3 S! c p C S P 3 H p 1 3 cS Oj *3 3 c Z, 3 P 1, .Inly. P 3 47 53 48* 49 44* 45 46 « < C fa - ■ — — — — — — s < 52’ 59 54 55 50 51 57 P 53 64' 65 60* 61 56* 63 3 3 3 S - — — — — — JD P - 3. 3 69 70 71 66 67 62 63* fa S n “5 7} 3 75 81 76* 77 72* 73 74 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 80* 87 82 &3 78 79 85 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 86 92’ 93 88- 89 84' 91 15 16 17 IS 19 20 21 97 93 99 94 95 90 96* 22 23 24 25 •26 27 28 1900 29 30' 31 Explanations.— In the left hand Table, find the day which corcesponds with the given year. Example: Saturday with the year 134.5. In the right hand Table, under the given month, will be found the days of the month on which that day falls. Example: In .Tanuary, 1315, Saturday falls oji the 4th ; therefore Wednesday will be the first day of the month. N. B. — In a Leap Year, the star (') points out the coiresponding .lanu- ary and Febiuary to be i eferred to. “KEEP IT BEFORE THE PEOPLE,” That the outrages perpetrated on property IN THE SHAPE OF TREES, are at last arou- sing legislative and judicial vengeance. The robberies practiced openly upon gardens and orchards and door-yards, have long and keenly annoyed those who devote care and labor to the cultivation of fine fruits and the embellishment of their homesteads. This species of pilfering, so common with children, exerts a pernicious influence on the mindsKif the young and old; for those who plunder their neighbors this way while young, are commonly more or less laint- etl with thievish propensities in maturerlife. “ Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.” Mark, then, the influence of example — of good and evil example — upon the minds ot youth: — “VVedouot know,” says the New York Ex- press, “ when we have been more pleased with a judicial decision than that which we find re- corded in one of our late London files. A boy fifteen years of age, was convicted and heavily punished for breaking a bough from one of the trees in a public garden. The sitting magis- trate, in passing sentence on the oflender, took occasion to use the following strong and sensi- ble language: “that although the damage in thus particular instance was small, yet the prac- tice of breaking trees occasioned great damage; and the inhabitants of the different squares were put annually to great expense, in consequence of these depredations. Persons had no mure right to take a, branch from one of these trees, than they had to go into one of the houses and steal a piece of plate.'' We hope this will be ‘ recorded for a piecedent,’ in every court in this country.” There is a beautiful circumstance connected with agricultural emulation. In many of the pursuits of life, one man gets rich by making another man poor, — climbs the ladder by putting his feet on another man’s shoulder; or he builds his own building out of the fragments of his neighbor’s which he has undermined. This is often a crying injustice, and inflicts many bitter mortifications, or arouses vindictive and tiger passions. Emulation in agricultural improve- ment enkindles no such baleful fires. A man can make no improvements in husbandry, with- out at once extending the knowledge and advan- tage of them to others. The enlargement of the capacities of the soil and every increase of its productions, conler an immediate benefit upon the whole community. — Selected. iO THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. For ihe Southern Cultivator. REPORT OF THE 'i ILLaGE AND FRODUCT OF ONE ACRE OF LAND IN CORN IN 1S44. By Eb.mund M. Pendleton. My land is a stiff red clay loundation, and rather a sandy soil ; has been in cultivation a number ot years; much worn, and never ma- nured, in my knowledge, till the present c-op, except once in the hill, with stable manure and a few' loads of oak leaves to make the ground friable. It lies on the summit and slope of a liill, facing south, and of course is high and dry ; a part of it was quite stony w'ilhal. Gathered a crop of wheat and hay from it last year, and plowed in the stubble w'ith a turning plow in November; hauled out about sixty-five two- horse loads stable manure with scrapings of farm-yard, hog-pen, &c., in February; a part fermented and a part not; spread over the ground broadcast and plowed in with a turning plow and subsoiled immediately. Planted corn 3d March, three by two and a half feet, three grains in a hill, and a small handful of cotton seed put on the corn, and covered with the plow. Hoed as soon as up, and thinned to one stalk in the hill ; then plowed with a colter as deep as possible. Had a bad stand and re- planted early in April, subsequently added a little cotton seed to the feeble slalk.s; gave ii three more hoeings, but no plowing. Gathered fodder the last of July, and pulled the corn late in August, which was fully ripe. The land was measured by Tuitle H. Audas, and the corn by Henry Rogers, Esq., vvirich amounted to fifty-three bushels and three pecks. Had it been cultivated as ordinarily and with- out manure, it could not have produced, in my opinion, exceeding ten or twelve bushels; so that I have nearly or quite quintupled the pro- duction of my acre. As I paid out no money for manure except for cotton seed-, 1 value it according to the a- mountof labor expended in procuring it. At this rate, the manure and hire of hand and horse in the cultivation of the acre and gathering the crop, amounted to twenty four dollars. The value ot the corn, fodder and tops, at spring pri. ces, M'ould amount to about thirty-lourdollars— making a nett profit, on one acre, ol ten dollars, and the land permanently improved lor years. Sparta, December 2f>, 1844. Large Yield op CoTTO.N..-On the first of September, we received a letter from A. M. Cliett, ol Houston county, in which he stated that from one acre of land, planted and cultiva- ted, in part, on tlie plan of Dr. Cloud, he had gathered in the month of August, 1028 pounds of nice seed cotlo i, and that the stocks were bending under the weight of the unmatured bolls. Mr. C. promised to furnish us at a sub- sequent time with a more detailed account of the culture, &c., and the yield. We hope he will not omit to do so, when we shall take pleasure in laying them before our readers.— SirnfAer/i Cultivator, Nov. 27. Mr. Editor:— As I promised you I should give a fuller account of my improved lot of cot- ton, and as 1 am now done gatherin.g it, 1 here will give you a precise account of the planting, manuring and the working, as well as the yield, which v.'as injured by the drought and early frost; but according to the price, I made asuff- ciency. I live in the pine woods, on the top of the highest hill in the neighborhood, and mine is thought to be poor land, in which opinion 1 agree. It is mixed with black-jack, and some red-oak and white-oak runners. On the top of this hill I planted my cotton, the Texan burr — the first I have ever seen myself; but I see others have it. Last year my two acres were planted in potatoes, sugar cane, aad a part in cotton, except about one-fourth of an acre, which 1 cleared this year, and planted in cotton to get as much as two acres square. I ran it off, or laid it off, four feet and a half one way, and three feet and a half the other. I ran rny plow backwards and forwards until I could get it no deeper. This 1 did the fi.'-st week in March, and at the same time, I applied my manure to it in the checks. At this time it v/as raining a moderate rain, sufficient to wet the manure, which J think was some advantage to it. As I put it out, I ridged up on ic with a large turning plow, as fast as I could spread it, to prevent its evaporation. On the 8th ol April I planted the seed by chopping small holes mer the manure, and dropping five seed in a hole, and covered it with the foot. On the 2‘>th of April, I broke up the middles with a ruter plow, and on the 1st of May I hoed it and thinned it out to three stalks. Then on the 22J May 1 ran round it two furrows in a row, with a sweeper. On the 1st day ol June I hoed it the second time and thinned it out to tvi o stalks, and on the 3d day of June I split out the middles with a sweep. On the 26th ofthesatne monih 1 ran three times in a row with the same sweep plow, and on the 29. h of the same month I hoed it out by chopping out what was lelt behind the plow. This was the last work I gave it; for by this time, it was too large to work any more. I suppose I dropped about one gallon of sta- ble and hog manure in a hill. This manure was made by hauling fine straw into my lot and hog-pens, and then, after it was trampled on a short time, I banked it up, and covered it by throwing straw over it to keep off the sun. This is the way I cultivated it. I divided the land into two parts, one acre each, to see which would beat; but there was no difference in land or cultivation. On one acre I gathered 2703 lbs. of as nice cotton as ever was picked out, and on the other I picked 2637 lbs. of equally nice. I think [ lost 100 lbs. on each acre that 1 would have got if my patch had been farther from the houses, as everything running through it washed it very badly and trashed it. These two acres have made me over four bales of cotton, besides 150 bushels of seed. Yours, A. M. Cliett. Pinetucky, Houston Co., Dec. 15, 1844. Steam WHisTf.E. — An exchange paper states that a new application ot this melodious instru- ment has recently been made, to wit, to give warning of the exhausted state of steam-boilers, or when the water in them has fallen to the spot “dangerous.” Then, and not till then, the steam gains access to and rushes up a tube there placed and connected with' a whistle, which immediately becomes the mouthpiece of the boiler, and shrieks, “I want water, or 1 shall burst.” FENCE;3. Has it ever occurred to Southern planters to inquire into the amount of capital invested in fences, and the annual interest on that capital? Those who make the calculation will be aston- ished at the result. We have an extensive col- lection of facts connected with the subject, which we intend to use hereafter, if our readers should desire it. In the mean time, we commend to their attention the annexed article from the Uni- ted States Gazette ; and will only say, at pre- sent, that the Osage orange grows in Georgia with great luxuriance and beauty. But we imagine the most effective live fence for the Southern States, is to be made of the Cherokee rose. REMARKS ON FENCING. The gradual but ceaseless prostration of our forests, and consequent increase in the value of fencing material, have diiecied the attention of country residents to hedges, and other perma- nent guards against the inroads ot cattle, and the no less frequent but more vexatious depre- dations ot man. Those who listened to Mr. Biddle’s last address before the Philadelphia Agricultural Society, must have been strongly impressed by 'he importance of thissubject, and astonished at the almost incredible amount ot capital invested in fences. Within the State of Pennsylvania alone as shown by apparently 'wed founded data, the aggregate sum exceeds one hundred millions of dollars! Mr. Biddle said, “consider now the interest on this outlay, the wear and tear of the fence, and that the whole of it will not last more than ten or fifteen vears, and you have as the annual tax upon Agriculture in Pennsylvania, a sum of ten mil- lions of dollars. If this estimate appears too high, reduce it one half and you have still a tax of five tnillio s.” Various are the opinions that exist as to the best method of protection and the relative worth ot live hedges, cedar fence, stone walls, &c. In many sections, the scarcity of stone utterly precludes the erection of such bar- riers, however ready we may be to award them the palm, for beyond question they are — when well j.ut up — decidedly preferable; if it be said they are unsightly, all that is necessary to in- vest them with perennial verdure is the ever- green Ivy, or other creeping plants might be Led — lor instance the Virginia Ivy (Ampelop- sis quinquo folia) which is of vigorous growth, and would serve to cement the structure, adding to its strength whilst it imparted beauty. In New England the larger portion of fences are of this nature. As has been observed, all locali- ties do not admit of their erection, and as wood- en fences are alike perishable, and expensive, we should adopt the best substitute within our reach— that is live hedges. In all soils, and in all latitudes they may he grown, care being ta- ken to select the plants best adapted to peculiar soils, and situations. In Europe — especially in Great Britain where hedges are almost exclu- sively used, they are formed of Hawthorn, Hol- ly, Privet, Pyracantha, and other deciduous and evergreen shrubs, the Hawthorn being princi- pally used for inclosing land, the others serve the double purpose of ornament and use. in many situations in this country, especially in wet or heavv laud, the thorn unfortunately does notsucceed: when partially elevated on banks they have been found to thrive better, but still are liable to decay. The Coxspur or New Cas- tle thorn (Cratoegus crus-galli) which has been extensively planted is subject to canker, caused by the sting of an insect, which deposits its eggs in the joints ot the branches, the whole plant ul- timately becomes diseased, and gradually de- cays. Until recently the Washington or Vir- ginia Thorn (Cratagus populifolia) was looked upon as a desirable kind, rapid in growth, hand- some in flower and loilage, and free from canker — but an enemy has at length appeared, the leaves become blotched, the healthy circulation of the sap impeded, yellowish excrescenes form THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 11 on the branches, and death ensties — ihus we have seen beautilul hedges of this plant decay •and die, and so general has been the result it seems useless to plant it. Fortunately vve have within our reach a sub- stitute for the thorn which is alike free from the disease and the attack of insects- the Madura Aurantiaca or Osage Orange. First discovered by Hunter, and Dunbar, on the banks of the Lit- tle Missouri (andnarneAy Nultal in honor of our townsman the late Wm, Maclure) it was not until the expedition ol Lewis and Clark that we of the seaboard obtained the plant itself, from seed collected on that expedition and distributed by Mr. Jefferson. There are now several fruit bearing trees in this section. An acquaintance with it of nearly forty years, has shown that the mature wood is perfectly hardy, is of a rapid growth, nxidi bears the sheojs xoUhoul the least apparent injury: the foliage is highly ornamental, the young shoots are armed wiili formidable spines, the puncture of which is pain- ful, and both leaves and shoots abound in acrid juice - hence it is never attacked by insects, or browsed by cattle; on ihe whole there is reason to believe it is destined to create a new era in fencing, and to prove of incalculable value to the farming interest. We have seen a hedge of it which though only planted half the time it would require to rear one of thorn, is a per- fect barrier to man and beast. From a recent publication of Mr. James Gowcn, we perceive he also has formed hedges of it on his beautiful estate at Mount Airy, specimens of it also exist at the Landreth Nurseries, ."nd elsewhere in this neighborhood. If our fields were as effectually enclosed as they may be by this plant —much of the evii which attends a residence near a popu- lous city would be avoided. Mischievous per sons would be kept at bay, fruit would no lon- ger cause Vexation and annoyance, and the do- mestic birds which protect our crops and trees from insects, and add a charm to country life, would no longer be disturbed by' cockney sports men -the latter is ti uly a crying evil which we re oice to see, lias attracted the attention of the Agricultural Society. D . THE LAW OF Si'OIl.Ms-SClENOB AND UTILITV. The reader, already familiar with the events of the late extraordinary storm, will doubtless be interested with such statements as the follow- ing, from'lhe pen of a gentleman whose name is a sufficient voucher for the accuracy of his re- marks. Mr. Haskins, of Buffalo, author of a work eliciting high testimonials from competent critics in astronomv, and whose observations in various matters of literature and science, (in- stanced in the lately published Discourse on ‘ Civil 'zation anterior to Greece and Rome,”) are frequently read, and read with pleasure, in the periodicals ami other journals, has published the following in the Ruffilo Commercial Adver- tiser, ot which he was formerly one of the editors. THE RAROMETEIl AND THE TEMPEST. ATr. Editor; — For several years paT I have been in the practice ot sending to the public press of this citv the unerring announcement of apptoaehing gales, which have been furnished by the barometer. This I have not clone as something new, but only in the hope that con- stant repetition mightfinally so fix the attention ot our nautical people on the subject as to cause the procurement and use of the instruments by them. The great gale, two years since, was known to be approaching, and was the subject of con- versation among those who had barometers in this city, some eighteen hours before the first effects of it were visible either upon the lake or upon the shore. On that occasion the column of mercury in the instrument sunk three-fourths of an inch in the space of twelve hours. So again last week. On Friday afternoon and evening, the 19th instant, no one saw, by exter- nal indications, tie approaching war of the ele- ments. At about seven o’clock on that evening, three steamboats filled with passengers left this port for the west, A gentlemen who was pas- senger in one ol iliese, in an account ot thestorm in your paper of Monday last, says: “ When w'e left the hariior, the lake was scarcely rufflec', and for the first two or three hours there was every prospect of a quick and pleasant trip. — Every one was in the highest spirits, as we bowled merrily along, and no apprehensions were entertained until abouteleven o’clock,” &c. Now, this account agrees perfectly with the external indications on shore. But before these boats left port, it was known, and was the sub- ject of conversation in iatnilirs on shore, where ihe batoineter is kept, that a storm of unusual violence was very soon to burst upon us. Dur- ing :he nine hours ending at halt past nine o’clock on that evening, the mercury in the ba- rome er fell one entire inch; and this great (hiange, in so short a time, was demonstration to those uho under.stood it, not only of the nearness of the calamity, but of its awful se- verity. Now, had the captains of these three steam- boats known what was known on shore, and what they might just as well have known as any one else, is it to be supposed they w'ould have left the port as they did’] Ot course they would not: and then why will not these, and all other nautical men, in the pursuit of their noble and daring profession, secure the advantages afford- ed them by the barometer] I know it may be said that a seaman would be ridiculed to tai.e of danger when all is calm below, with smiling skies above. But surely men who could face the dangers and the awliil responsibilities ot la.st Saturday morning with the coolness and energy that our mariners did, can disregard the sneers of ignoran.-e for a day. 1 admit that, had any one of the three steamboat captains refused to .sail on Friday evening last, when the weather was so pleasant and promis- ing in appearance, and h.id given as a reason that he “saw danger on the deep,” he would have been both ridiculed and censured. But what would have been his position twelve hours later, when surrotinded by the wreck ol that .'torm, against the dangers ot which he had warned his contemners ] Ridicule would have been silenced then; while others, gathering wisdom from the example, would speedily possess themselves of the same means of knowledge that he pos.sessed, and by which life and property are so greatly protected. R. W. Haskins. Butfalo, October 23, 18-11. THE PiTl.XMIDS OF EGVPT. The materials of which the pyramids are comstructed, afford scope for fong dissertation, because, independently of the science and skill requisite lor their adaptation, the (tistances from which most of them were brought proves that each Monarch’s sway extended all over Egypt and Lower Nubia, ifnot beyond ; and in relation to this subject we gather the following facts from the second lecture of Mr. Gliddon’s new course : Geologically considered, Egypt is a v'ery peculiar country, ihe quanies ot different kinds of stones lying at great distan- es from each other in distinctly marked localities. If you .see a piece ot'basalt on the beach of Ihe Metliterra- nean, you know that there is no basaltic quarry nearer than between the Ist and 21 cataract, and when you find a block of granite at Memrhis, you know that no granite exists but at the first cataract— nearer than the peninsula of Moeint Sinai. Early civilization and extended domi- nion is indicated in these facts, and when we reflect upon them, we almost think we witness the work of tramsportation going on; that we see the builders, and the buildings ihemsel ves in process of erection. The blocks of Arabian limestone used in the interior of the pyramids were brought from the ancient quarries o! Toorah, on the opporsite side ofthe Isule, distant about 15 or 20 miles from such pyramid. These very quarries are va.st halls as it were excava led in the living Rock, wherein entire armies might eneamp, are adorned with now mulilated tables recording the age of their respective I opening by different Pharaohs, and not only show Ihe tier?/ whence ihe stupendous biock.s ot someot the pyramids were taken; but are in themselves, works as wondrous and sublime as the Memphite Pyramids ! nay, at the very loot of these quarries, iie the countless tombs and sar- cophagi of numbered generations of ancient quarrymen ! These quarries are of intense archreological interest, because the tables in them record that stone was cut in them for Memphis, on such a day, such a month, such a year ofthe reign of such a king; and these kings begin from the remote times before-the iGtii dynasty, and, at difierent interv.als came down through the Pharaonic period with many ofthe others, till we reach the Ptolemaic epoch— and end with Latin inscriptii ns similar to others in attesting that “these quarries were work- ed” in the propitious era of our Lords and Em- perors Severus and Antoninus, thus enabling us to descend almosistep by step from the remote antiquity ol 2200years B. G., do vn to 200 years alter the Christian era. The hand of modfin barbarism, prompteil by the destructiveness ot Mohammed Ali, has since 1830 done more to delace these tablets — to blow up many of these halls in sheer wantonne.ss than has been effected by lime in 4006 years ! Every atom of the hundred thousand tons of granite used in the pyramids was cut at Syene, the 1st cataract, distant 640 miles. The blocks’, some of which are 40 feel long, had to be cut out of theirbeds with wooded wedges and copper chisels; then polished with emery tdl they were as smooth as looking gla.ss, and then carried by land half a mile to the river— placed on rails and floated down 640 miles to Memphis— brought by canals to the loot ol the Lybian chain — con- veyed by land over gigantic causeways from one mile to three in length to the pyramids for which they weie intended, and then elevated bv machinery and placed in their present position, with a skill, and a masonic precision that has conlounded the mo.st scientific European engi- neer with amazement ! The very sarco- phagi that once held the mummy ofthe Pha- raohs, in the inmost recesses of these pyramidal mausolea,8i feet long by 34 broad and 3 deep were all brt tight Irom Lower Nubia, from the basaUic quarries of the 2nd cataract, not nearer than 750 miles up the river! Looking into the mtoL?- of the pyramids, there is still much to stagger belief— to excite our admiration. In the pyramid office steps, the upper beams that support the roof ofthe chamber are of oak, larch and cedar, not one of which trees grow [nE^ypl and establish the fact of the timber trade with Illyria, Asia Minor and Moon' Lebanon in ages long before Abraham! In the fragments of a mummy the cloth is found to be saturated with the “ Pissnsphalttim”- Jew’s pitch or bitu- men Judiacum, compounded of vegetable pi.ch from the Aichipc-lago, and of asphalium of the Dead bea^ in Palestine; we find Gum Arabic, that does not grow nearer than 1200 miles from the pyramids, attesting commerce wiih uppier Nnbia. The ]^«/~came from the mine.s of Suakim on the Red Sea, or from remote Fa- zoglu. The liquor which cleansed out the body of the mummy was Cedria the fluid .'‘osin ofthe pi iis cedrn.s--thal grows not nearer than Syria. The spices send us to the Indian Ocean-’-ihe aloes to Succotra— the cinnamon to Ceylon, the ancient Taprobane— and then the arts ’and sciences brought to bear upon the pyramids that must have arrived at perleclion long before :hat day are not onlv tliemes for endless reflections, but oblige us to conless that in chronology we are yet children! Among his novel and strange assertions, in relation to the science of the ancient Egyptians, Mr. Gliddon maintained that from the vervnatme oiWxe'w country, and ilie vast fossU remains in their quarries, &c, the Egyptian priests must have h 'OX) g'ologists , and referred to his “ Chapters,” page dfl- fiir the remarks ofthe priest ot Solon, “You mentioned one deluge oniy, whereas T??//?)?/ happened”---and other evidences, that the recognised in their mythology and chronomgycf the woild vast p'-'-riods of time, anterior to the creation of man. — Boston Post. 12 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. From the So. Ca. Temperance Advocate. THE NORTH AND THE SOUTH. Mr. Editor;— You will oblige me by pub- lishing in your paper ihe enclosed remarks, ■which I made at the recent meeting of the Mon- ticello Planters’ Society, together with the post- script. This request is made principally to correci any misunderstanding (if any there should be) of what I said on that occasion. Respectfully yours, &c., Nov. 12, 1844. VVm. J. Alston. Mr. President: — It is natural that one who feels a lively inierest in Agricultural pursuits when at home, should be attracted, when abroad, by whatever may be worthy of notice in the agriculture of the region through which he woul .1 pass. Accordingly, during my travels of the past summer there was no subject, except one, which engaged moreofi'ny attention than the agricul- ture, and its appurtenances, of the country through which I travelled. 1 saw much to in- terest, and perhaps have gained some useful in- lormation. 1 propose to give the results of my observa- tions, rather than descriptions of what 1 saw. There was no idea more impressed on my mind by all that 1 observed, than this — that im- provement with the Northern people, is con- sidered as a subject of more importance, than with us. Ail classes seem to participate in the interest which is felt — amounting almost to enthusiasm — in regard to whatever may lend to develope the resources ol their country. This was stri- kingly manifested at the State Agricultural ex- hibition of New York. There, were displayed the fruits of the industry and the inventive ge- nius of an enlightened agricultural people- contending for prizes more honorable than those awarded for achievements in the Olympic games. There, were to be seen the greatest va- riety of best specimens of the agricultural pro- ducts ot that region — of stock ol the most ap- proved breeds— of domestic labrics ol the loom and needle— products of the dairy — models of the various implements and machinery used on’ a farm — a plowing ii>atch, more interesting than the feats ol the Turl—and in conclusion, the largest assembly my eyes ever witnessed, under a vast canopy, listening to one of the most profound and accomplished scholars of New England, discoursing eloquently upon agriculture and its votaries. Mr. President, 1 contemplated that scene — I may say that succession ol scenes, with no or- dinary emotions. I need not tell you 1 was gratified. In that section the cultivation of the soil, and the subjects connected with it, engage talents, science, capital and inaustry. The re- sult is, that whatever is undertaken, is apt to be well done; and prosperity crowns their labors. The traveller seldom meets with a poor crop, or a poor specimen of stock, of any kind. Everything evinces an enlightened husband- ry. Their crops are chiefly corn, wheat, oats, and other small grain ; potatoes, turneps, beets, cabbage, &c.; the grasses, clover, herd’s grass, timothy, &c. There are few of the above named crops which we may not produce with equal success, and in my opinion with less labor. Our natu- ral advantages are superior to theiis. Our cli- mate and soil are more favorable to the pro- duction of nearly all of the above enumerated crops, than theirs. If we cannot produce on all our soils, and in every season, as good Irish po- tatoes, we have our sweet potato, which is pre- ferable, and which they cannot grow. If we cannot raise c'over with equal success, we have our cow-pea, which is as good, and may be used as its substitute in improving ouriands; and as food for man and brute; and, what is of far more importance, we have in addition, our cotton and our rice. We can support all kinds ofstock at less expense than they. Our winters are not so severe, and as 1 have already stated, we may have greater suppli'^’s of food. Never- theless they excel u.s. They make larger crops, raise better stock, etc. And why'? It is be- cause their system ol husbandry is a more en- lightened one, and they are constantly making improvements. We should therefore, to this point, direct our energies, both individually, and as a society. In this connection I may remark, that one ot their most important improvements is, in the use of the plow. There is nothing upon which the success of the agriculturist depends more, than the proper use of this implement. Of the truth of this, the Northern farmers seem to be fully aware. The best models ol the plow, per- haps, in the world, are to be lound in the North- ern Slates. The most expeiienced and suc- cessful farmers there, I was told, will not use any but a laige sized plow in preparing their lands lor planting. These are drawn by at least two horses or oxen. The larger sized plow, used for breaking up land, requires lour horses or oxen. Those first mentioned will turn a farrow 14 inches wide and 7 inches deep. The last mentioned would of course turn a deeper and broader furrow. To deep and thorough pulverization before planting, as much as or more than to manuring, may be ascribed the greater abundance ol their crops, in comparison with ours. This abun- dance supplies them .with the means ot sup- porting, in the best order, all kinds ol stock. There is nothing of value, that their larms can produce, or contribute to support, which does not receive that attention necessary’ to raise it to the highest degrees of perfection. Peraranency ot improvement is regarded more by them than by ns. Their buildings and their fences — whether ol wood or ol stone — are made to endure. Often times the traveller meets with well built stone houses and fences made ot split rock, laid in mortar, as a mason would build it. They know too the value of good roads. It is no uncommon thing to see one horse in a cait drawing a load, which it would require four hoises in a wagon to draw over such roads as we are compelled to put up with, between Mon- ticello and Columbia. We have to contend with no greater impediment to prosperity than the want of good roads ; and there is no subject which requires the attention of the people, of Agricultural Societies and of the Legislature, more than the amelioration of the roads, and of the Road law. There is nothing better calcu- lated to deter the enterprising stranger from set- tling amongst us, or to induce our worthy citi- zens to emigrate, than the difficulties which our roads present, in travelling, and in the tran- sportation of produce to mai ket. I only repeat what has by others been re- marked, when I say that the condition of the roads of a country may be viewed as an index of the degree of advancement of a people in the attainment of the comforts and refined enjoy- ments of civilized life. It this be true, we have ample room for improvement. While travelling over the fine roads of the North, and beholding the beautiful and pio- duciive farms — the hills as well as the rallies clothed in living green, or golden grain, my mind would revert to the worn out fields and gullied hills of my own State, and the contrast produced feelings of sadness, I determined in my own mind, if I should ever return home, and my life and health were spared, that 1 would endeavor, wdth renewed zeal, to change the system which had produced those saddening results. The more experience I have, and the more extended are my observa- tions, the more deeply am I impressed with the beliel, that the true interest of the Carolinian, 1 may say the Southern planter, is, to raise all his supplies that can be produced at home, first, and then as much more cf whatever he may find profitable for market — whether it be cotton, grain, hay, stock, &c., as he may be able.' This change in our system would necessari- ly bring about an amelioration ol our lands, as well as an increase of our incomes. We would have more time and means for making manure, and permanent improvements of every descrip- tion, on our plantations. We v/ouldbe enabled to enjoy more of the comforts and elegancies of life, and all our supplies would be of a better quality. This occurred to me with much force, when I beheld the comforts and even elegancies with which families at the North and the East, m moderate circumstances, were sourrounded; and when I saw the abundance and superior ' quality of almost everything necessary to sup- ply a good table. I shall rejoice to see the day, when we all can supply ourselves with as good food and raiment as we ever purchased from our brethren of the West and the North. I be- lieve we will then have more v/ealth — more of the real enjoyments of life — better roads — less hardships to encounter in disposing of our sur- plus produce— in a word, I believe we will then be a more prosperous, and happier people. W. J. Alston. P. S. By the above remarks, 1 do not wish to be understood as ascribing to the Northern people any pre-eminence of character— any su- periority in a moral or intellectual point of view. I merely allude to their superior attain- ments, derived from an improved system of husbandry, and the general improvement of the country. My object was to show wherein w’e of the South may improve our condition, and enjoy all the advantages of the Northern farm- er added to those of the Southern planter. In these times — when the price of cotton is lower than it ever was known, and the prospect is that it may never be much higher — it becomes a grave question, for the consideration of the planter, and which every one must tlecide for . him.se]r, whether it is to his interest to conLffiue : to increase the over-production of cotton, by planting larger crops in proportion as the price falls; to enable him* by the increase of his crops, to purchase his supplies, which may be raised on his plantaiion ; or, instead of this, to raise all his supplies, and then as much cotton or other produce for market, as he may be able. If the latter policy indicated be pursued, it will then be to the planter’s interest to adopt all available improvements in farming. W’lietiier the Tariff be reduced or not, no ob- .servant planter or statesman will deny, that large crops of cotton have invariably produced corresponding low prices ; vice versa ; and that, however much a reduction of liie Tariff may avail us, there is no cause which will con- tribute to raise the price of cotton so much as lo keep down over-production. This will be done, either by increasing the consumption of cotton manufactures, by diminishing the aggregate of the cotton crops, or by both causes operating at the same time. The reduction of the Tariff would to some extent, (not very great,) increase the consump- tion of cotton manulactures. The general use of cotton cotton bagging, insteadof that disgrace- ful article called “ Kentucky bagging,” would increase the consumption at least fifty thousand bales annually. On the other hand, the general practice, by cotton planters, of raising all their supplies that can be raised on their plantations, would contribute more than anything in their power, to the curtailing ol the aggregate of the cotton crops. The effects of a diminished crop by all, would be an increase in the price of cotton, and their supplies furnished at home, at a less cost than that at which they could be purchased, w.j.a. CORN BREAD. Take as much corn meal as you wish to cook, scald it well, by pouring boiling water over it and stirring it thorcugLly; then mix it to the consistency of batter, with milk; if it is pretty rich it won’t hurt it, but mind the mixing part, that it is thoroughly done, the more the better. — Put in one egg, a teaspoonful of salreratus and a tablespoonful or more of lard. Mix the whole thoroughly together, till the ingredients are en- tirely incorporated througli the whole ; mind, I say, the mixing, the more the better. It is now to be baked as usual, about three quarters of an hour, and you will have the finest corn bread you ever ate. — Western Farmer, «iPi riiiiaimn rirtniipr t nnm iiiimi' u rniiiiimiiii iii 1 1 ~ii i rnr t • iiiiimi'n'iii i" ni ir iit i' n nir in iTiiniriiiiiririi • iiwrirrnrii v m'w ii ■ll■nTlll^'ll p ~i n \\ iiim 'unii iri i h i m ii 1 1 , - i r ii i m i n i m THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 13 GAMA AND BERMUDA GRASS. With great trouble, and at some expense, I procured fife acres of Gama grass, which I found neither horses nor cattle would eat, and I con- sider it as utterly worthless. The Bermuda grass is the best for pasture in the world. It is the doub grass of Central India, and amon ? oth- er things was brought to Georgia by Governor Ellis. You will find it figured and described in vol. V. of Sir William Jones’s works, London, octavo edition. It was carried to the Bahamas, from Savannah, by Col. Tatnall, and I suppose found its way to Cuba witl\ the cattle traders of that island. The Hindoos worship this grass as the best food for the sacred bull, and as being sent down from India by Brama for his use. I speak very positively of the Bermuda grass, being the doub grass of India, and I do so be- cause Mr. William H. Crawford, when secre- tary of the treasury, procured from India this grass, and the acorns of the teack tree, and sent me. I was struck (although a dry specimen) with the identity, andhavingSir William Jones’s work, in which this grass was figured, and my yard and lawn filled with it in flower, I compar- ed them, and found they perfectly accorded in all points. But it requites a microscope to dis- cover the beauties, w hichhe (Sir W illiam Jones) so rapturously describes, in its flowers. I do not know whether I stated that the Marquis of Hastings introduced this grass into England, but it failed, as Loudon stales, from choosing an improper situation for it. It would grow well in your lands, that are warm, moist, and not flooded; the roots penetrate too deep to be de- stroyed in a good and warm soil. Its grazing powers exceed credibility in proper situations; nor is there any grass equal in quality for hor- ses, cattle, or sheep. Tiios. Spalding. Sapelo Island, Geo., Sept. 21, 1844. In addition to the above from Mr. Spalding, we have had a communication for some time on hand from Mr. Affleck of Mississippi, who also forwarded us specimens of the Bermuda grass. We also recollect seeing it growing on his lawn and in other parts of the South. He says : I find by actual experiment, weighingthe Ber- muda grass newly cut, and the same when drjq that it loses exactly 50 per cent., or 100 lbs. of grass make 50 lbs. of perfectly dry hay. It is the hardest grass to cut, however, ihat I have ever seen tried, and the easiest cured. I house all at night, which has been cut at noon. It wmuld not, in my opinion, bear the cold of your winters — the first frost kills it to the ground. The Muskete, or as Kendall calls it, Mesqait grass, 1 piesume would suit your climate bet- ter. It is yet a mooted question w'hether the Bermuda ripens its seed in this latitude. I will examine it carefully this season, and if I find malured seed, will send you some. I know' not where Mesquit grass can be obtained. I send you three samples of Bermuda — ^one of long grass, of upright growth from the meadow, just com- ing in blossom— the other from an upland pas- ture—and the third, a stalk that 1 pulled off the surfaceot the ground, toshow you how it spread, and how' admirably it is adapted for embank- ments. On a piece of good meadow land, this grass stands in a solid mat — so close are the stalks, and so thickly interwoven are the leaves, that when cut with the scythe it very frequently stands erect. I feel very confident that it is the oiiosi- highly nut ril ions grass hnoivn to ?vs. From the specimens 1 send you, you will readily un- derstand how such enormous crops of hay are cut from meadows of thissort — observe the great solidity and weight of the stem. In curing, it loses less weight than any grass I ever saw — and ' affords three cuttings, yielding an aggregate of from five to eight tons ofhay, from a moderately good meadow, I have said enough, however, to convince any planter who wishes to form pa.stnres tor his al- most starved slock, or to do away with the ne- cessity of pulling fodder, work so de'-tructive to the health of his negroes, that he ought at least to make the experiment. And a proof that I am willing to aid in spreading this treasure over the naked hills of the south, 1 will willingly for- ward to any planter, who is a subscriber to two ag- ricuUural journals, one of which is published in the state in which he resides, on his applying to me post-paid, a barrel of roots of this grass, which would, in one season, cover a large ex- tent of ground. To the river planter it is abso- lutely invaluable — there is not a levee on the banks of the Mississippi could resist, for one houi, the pressure and attrition of the fearful flood now rolling along, but for their being bound together by this grass. AGRICULTURAL EDUCATION. Mr. John P. Norton, now travelling in Eu- rope, gives in the Albany Cultivator the follow iiig very interesting and encouraging account of experiments in agricultural education. Speaking of the show of the Highland Society, held at Glasgow, and meetings incidental to the occasion, he says; — “First, I would notice an Education meeting. Arrangements had been made by which live t oys, irom theLanne Agricultural School near Belfast, in Ireland, were present, with their teacher. Dr. Fitzpatrick, from Lanne, Mr. Skil- ling, from Dublin, Sir Robert Bateson, from Templemoyle, and other gentlemen interested in the cause of Agricultural instruction, were also present. The boys were from 14 to IG years old, and had been in the agricultural class two years. Prof. Johnston stated that by this meeting it was hoped that light might be thrown upon two points. 1. Is it possible to give boys instruction in agriculture, practical and scientific, that will be of use to them in af- ter life. 2. Gan this be done without interfering with other studies. These questions were both most distinctly answered in the affirmative by numerous gentlemen present, connected with agricultural schools in England and Ireland. The boys before mentioned were finally placed upon the platform, and with a view to answer- ing the second inquiry were questioned in geo- graphy, grammar and arithmetic, by Mr. Gib- son, irj.spector ot schools. The examination was a somewhat severe one, especially upon grammar and geography, yet notwithstanding the embarrassments and novelty of their situa- tion, they appeared admirably. I think that some one of them answered every question. They were then examined upon various points in chemistry connected with agriculture, by Prof. Johnston, and lastly, upon practical farm- ing, by various other gentlemen. Their an- swers showed not only that they had learned by rriemory, but that they had also reflected. Frequent and irrepressible bursts of applause interrupted the examination, and the most sceptical were convinced. These boys devote one hour of each day to scientific and practical agriculture, and once in the week they are questioned upon ihe studies of the preceding five days. An enthusiasm was aroused by this exhibition which will hardly expend itself in mere words. A resolution was passed “that t was the opinion of the meeiing that agricul- tural instruction should be introduced into the schools of Scotland.” A large committee ot in- fluential and distinguished gentlemen was ap- pointed to deliberately consider the subject. I may here mention that Mr. Skilling, superin- tendant and teacher in the Normal farm school, near Dublin, gave most ample testimony in fa- vor of Prof. Ji'hnston’s works. Tliey are intro- duced into all the Irish schools, and their im- portance impressed upon every teacher. The Catechism was written expressly for schools, and has been found of signal benefit.” Unproductive Land. — How many are there who own Irom 300 to 500, and more, acres of land, ot which one-third, or at least one-sixth pan lies totally unproductive in useless brush- wood, in uncleared swamps, or in land render- ed worse than profitless, for want of proper draining? the owner not seeming to remember that for every such acre not yielding something in grass, in pasturage, in tillage, or in grow'ing timber, he should charge himself, as with so much lost or thrown into the fire or the sea. There is no mistake more common than that of supposing that the more land a man has, the greater must be his profits — forgetting that the profits arise not from the land itself, any more than from an idle mill or ship, but from the skill and manner of using it; and so indispen- sable is capital in the business ot farming, that in general it may be laid down as an axiom, that money employed in agriculture, will yield an interest in an inverse ratio to the area to which it is applied. Thus if ^100 be expended, and yield 10 per cent, on ten acres, the proba- bility is that it would yield much more if appli- ed to half that area.- Skinner's Address. From the Boston Cultivator. AGRICULTURAL ASSOCIATIONS. The number ot agricultural associations is increasing throughout the country, and their ex- hibitions are annually becoming more and more interesting, not only to farmers, but to other classes also, and they give evidence that the spirit of improvement is abroad, pervading ev- ery nation where farmers are intelligent and in- dustrious. Every branch ot husbandry, house- hold economy, and mechanic arts, is under the benign influence of the genius of improvement. Farmers’ festivals are exciting in all classes a deeper interest in agriculture and horticulture, and more respect for those engaged in these branches ofindnstry, which tend to diffuse a salu- tary influence over the whole community. Far- mers w'ill find it greatly to their advantage, both in an individual and collective capacity, to as- sociate together, and act in unison lor the ac- complishment of important purposes, which cannot be effected without combination and con- cert of action. There should not only be State and County Agricultural Societies, but Farmers' Clubs should be formed in every town in the country. In every kind of improvement, whether it be the introduction of new breeds of stock, improv- ed implements, new varieties ot grain, vegeia- tables and Iruit, new modes of culture and new crops, or the establishment ol libraries and other means of improvement, a great deal iDore can be done, and the expense will be less; and the enterprises will be more pleasant and interesting, more lively, spirited, and successlul, and the ef- fect be far more powerful on the public, by as- sociated action among those in a town or neigh- borhood, who have a sameness of principles and purposes, even if iheir number be small, not exceeding half a dozen, provided they be zeal- ous, discriminating, and persevering. Then, farmers, form associations in every section of the country, and devi.se means to im- prove your condition in every department in which you are engaged, and you will learn that by intellectual labor you will save much labor of the hands, and you will be expanding your minds, and opening new sources of rational pleasure, and as you improve in your profession, you will respect it more, and command the re- spect ol others ; you will elevate yourselves in society to that important rank to which your calling justly entitles you. In connection with this subject, numerous others are presented, and some important move-, ments are necessary for the accomplishment of desirable objects: — and this must be done by associated and general concert. Among the subjects that claim attention, are Agricultural Education — a Little Legislation for Farmers, (as they form three-fourths of the population,) not all for other classes — Encouragement to Great Enterprizes in Agriculture, (which indi- viduals cannot accomplish.) ns well as splendid schemes for otiier branches of industry — a Share in the Councils of the Nation, and Important Oflices, by honest, sensible, and enlightened Fanners and Mechanics, as well as a place in the Front Rank of Battle in the hour of danger, 11 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. .,.! ,11 ihe Albany Gnllivalor. VEGETABLE NUTRinON. The writer scarcely expects to be able to ofTer any new views to those who have studied the subject thoroughly. His object is to endeavor to e.\'plain the .subject to the understanding ol practical men, — the larmers andgardners, those who worh toe soil andderive their sustenance Irom it. Generally speaking, all tillers ot tlie .soil know that it they apply a load ol horse sta- ble manure to a certain quantity ot land, the product will be increased by it to a certain ex- tent; but they do not know tiie minute princi- ple,s on which it acts. We ail know that when we eat our dinners, our hunger is sati.s.hed, but how many ot us know the true cause of that hunger and the mode or true cause of its satis- taction 1 It i;. precisely the same with plants as with nnimals, including men. If we do no' get enough to eat, we languish, and ultimalely per ish ; if plants do not get enough to eat, they also languish and peri,sh, or yield a stinted product. Plants and animals are enabled to grow by what they eat, and although their mode of eating, is different they both act upon the same principle, and both grow by what they teed on, and in no other .vay. This is vegetable and animal nutri- tion. The increase of a plant in size, fs .supplied by its nutrition, so is that ot an animal— if nei- ther have any thing to eat— if a plant have no manure, an animal no lood, neither can groiv, both must perish. These are plain matter of tact principles that all understand. Now a new soil— that is, a soil just cleared of the limber, posse.sses a quantity of nuiriti.in from leaves and other substances that have decayed on its surlnce in the course ot time, and hence new land is proverbial for good crops; but it is soon exhausted, and then a supply becomes necessary Irom some other source — just as your corn crib or meat house requires replenishing when ex- hausted of iis contents, that your table maybe supplied. This is the plain common sense reason why inanure is necessary to a soil — if vour meat house and corn crib require a new supply of meat and corn v/hea their old supply is nealy or quite exhaushted, so does your soil require manure v/lieri that approaches exhaus- tion. But how does mrnure act in soil, is a ques- tion most frequentlj^ asked, and the answer is, it acts precisely as does the meat m the meat house, and corn in the crib. Plants eat as well as men. If you have no provender for your cattle, you do not e.xpect thenj to thrive; if you have but a scanty supply of poor straw, you do not expect your cows and oxen and horses and sheep to get fat on that alone; so, if y u have no manure of anykinito apply to your land, you do not expect large crops ot whe.at, or corn or rye. These you will say are all common place remark! — every body kncnv,s all this verv well. The object of bringing all this common place matter before you, is merely to lay the foundation, as it were ot the building. You all admit that lood is as necessary to plants as to animals. The next question is, how do they take it, and how appropriate it to the supply of their necessities'? We do not see them take it by the moinhiul and mas'icate it, and swallow it; but it tioes not lol'ow that thev do not do tnis because we do not see them do it. There are ;it th.eendsof the roots of all plants, small, ex- tremely small mouths through which ihiw take food. Those little, extremely fine hairy roots, have small openings by which they take from the soil such matter as is nutricious. This mat- ter is dissolved by water in the soil, and thus rendered fit to b? taken up by the roots ol the plants. That is, the nutritious principles that may be in tlie soil are dissolved by and com- bined m water. They in this medium enter into the .sap vessels of the plants; just as do the nutricious principles taken into the =tomach of animals, enter into the blood. In this way they are carried upilie plant to the leaves, where thev are exfiosed to the action of the atmospheric air; as is the blood carried to the lungs in animals lor the action of the air. When the sap or cir- culation ot tlie plant lias liaa snllicienl exp.isuie to the action ol the air, through the medium of the leaves, it commences its return downwards towards the roots, supplying in its xvay such pans ol the plant as need renovation or addition ol woody fibre, and when such quantity as i.s needed has been ttius taken by the various parts of the plant, the balance, if there be any, and that which has been rejected as innutritions, is voided in the form ol excrement, by Ihe roots, as is done by animals. We now come to consider the form cr nature ot die nutritious principles taken from theearih. All the differeni con.^litaeats of nutrition are in the soil and mixed together mechanically or chemically. They are dissolved and held in solution by water. The roots of plants absorb this, solution in such quantity as may be requir- ed by the plant, and it passes into the plant through the (Channels formed for the purpose calledsap ves.se>s, analogous to veins in animals, and immediately ascends to the leaves, where it receives the necessary .supply of carbonic acid gas; I suppose it receives in addition to carbo- nic and gas, nitrogen ; that is, that it is nitroge- nized as well as carbonized, just as is the blood of animals oxygenized, it then returns towards the roots, through another set ol vessels, analo- gous to arteries in animals, an I as before re- marked, supplies each part of the pi mi with the necessary material to restore its waste or ai 1 in its growth. In this process, the plant does not take up crude matter, charcoal or lime, or potash, but the elements or gases that are found in the sap, and that constitute these and other portions of the plant. This whole process is precisely the same as that through which the nutrition of men and animals is carried. Now if we apply common salt to a piece of ground, we must not understand that ihe plants growing on it will take up salt in sub.stance. It they take up any tiling at all, it will be the elements that consti- tute salt, or those formed by the coiiibinaiion ol those elements with such suitable materials as may be lound in the soil. And so with other articles. Suppose we apply potash to the soil, in the form of ashes or otherwise, it there be sili- cic acid in the soil, then silicate ol potash will be lound mingled in the sap of the plant, from which the plant will obtain that glo.s.sy coaling which we see on the outside of straw, cane, &c. If there be no silicic acid in the soil, and there be pota.sh there already, then it is obvious that silicic acid, not potash, is to be added. So with all other constituents of plants. It is perfectly i)iipossible tor a plant to take from the soil any organiz'sd substance.s, woody fibre, potash. &c., but it must take the elements of such in solution, and lorrn and appropriate them by means of its own organs, just asanimaGdo. Hogs do not take their pork and bristles from the corn they feed on, but they make them from the elementa- rv principles the, obtain from the corn and at- mosphere. VVe hear people talk of .wire .•■■oi/i; there can be no such thing as a sour soil, as such ov per se. Some vegetables grow on any and all soils; and if nothing else grows there, it does not follow that the soil is sour, but simply that there are none or not enough o*' the elements of other plants to supply their growth. For exam- ple, starch is composed of carbon, oxygen, and hydrogen; an:i .sugar is comp-.'S' d ot the same elements, only in .>liahtly different proportions, h'ow oxalic acid, (the acid of sorrel,) is com- posed ofcarbon and oxygen, and these elements must necessarily exist in all soils; add hydro- gen, which will certainly be supplied by rain water in abundance in all soil, and you will have the elements of starch and sugar, as well as those ot oxalic acid. But you may add potash to what is called a sour soil, or li n.e, or soda, and still sorrel will grow there; because each plant takes from Ihe soil and Ir.mi the atmosphere, that which it requires to constitute its substances, and nothing else. Yon may make the most perfectly rich soil that ever lav ou,t of doors, and pla''f soTel or the oxalic in it, and y-m w'lll find that they will thrive equally with all other plants; just as all varieties of animals, thrive; horses, hogs, sheep and birds, on the same larm, eacii one taking ihai suit ol luoU that suits it. The great mistake, and that which has causea much loss to farrceis, is the supposition that plants convert compound or combined sub- stances as such, into nutrition. The fact i.«, that all substances that afford food lor plants are reduced to their original elements in gase- ous or watery form, or in both, mixed. Water affords in itself a valuable source of nutrition to fdants. It contains hydrogen, and there are few portions of the plant that do not want hydro- gen; it contains o.xygen, and there is not a sin- gle parlor portion ol the plant, (let it be what plant it may,) that does not contain oxygen. Water is besides, in plants as well as animals, a solvent for the otherelements of nutrition. The blood in animals, cannot exist without it; or if it can exist, it cannot circulate to the advantag.i of the animal ; just so with the saps of plants, Vx^ater not only afib.rds as it were a vehicle lor the conveyance o! nutrition to the various parts of plants and animals, but also a considerable and indispensable portion of the nutrition itself. As an illustration ol these principles ot nutri- tion, a well known fact in horticulture may be mentioned. If the lore-part of surnmer, after the tree has shed its blossoms, yor ring the limb of an apple tree, that is, take off the bark for a quarterofan incharound thelimb,ne irthe trunk of the tree; or, which answers equally well, place a small wire around the limb near the trunk, drawing it tightly so that it shall be made to sink in the barii all around ; you will find the limb will increase in size above the ring, but not below it; and the Iruit, it it bear fruit, will be larger and ripen sooner on that limb than that on any of ihe others. The reason is, that the ring has intercepted the descent of the nutri- cious sap from the leaves at the top, and thus compelled its conversion to the growth of the limb and the fruit above the ring. The conclusions to be drawn from the princi- ples above laid down are obvious. 1st. Plants take nourishment precisely as animals do, ex- cept the apparatus, (the mouth) and mode of taking it, differ in form. Plants as well as ani- mals, reduce all substances that contain nutri- cious principles to their original elements, be- fore they convert any portion of them to their own organism. Therefore, when we apply sta- ble manure to soil, we do so merely to enable the soil and the plants to extract from it the ni- trogen, &c. that its ammonia, contains. The plants do not take up ammonia, but simply one of its elements, nitrogen. The elementary prin- .dples of the manure are all in like manner taken up and combined. If there be an excess of any one element, that excess is excluded from the sap; and if the sap contains an excess of any principle, that excess is ejected in the form of excrement. Indeed this paper may be appro- pt lately concluded xvhh the remark that fi/e is siippoiied by death. Dea'h must lak^ place in something, before anything can rec^ iv3 nutritive matter; because it is from the deatn and disso- lution ot one thing, that the nourishment ot ano- ther is obtained. If animals and plants do not die, man cannot live or be supplied with meat and bread; and it animals and plant* de not perish, plants cannot live. From the dissolu- tion ofone body, animal or vegetable, another body derives the elements of its own growth, its woody fibre, sugar. &c.; its flesh, bone, &e. — Butevery thing must be reduced to its original elements, belore its conslituetU principles can be appropriated to other forms. In lact, ail pro- cesses of life, in both kingdoms, animal and ve- getahle, and the mineral too indeed, are nothing more than the changing c>f places of the elements of organization. An animal dies, its body r/e- cays, as we call it. But this body does not decay. The elementary principles of which it is com- posed, merely separate, and lorm new combina- tions—one portion enters imo and becomes a portion of a plant, probably a rose or a lilly, probably of a skunk ; just so with a plant. A portion of its con.stitnent principles becomes ab- solutely a part and portion of the body of Q,ueen Victoria, or of that of a goose, or of liial of any other animal. But let us .*top. The idka in- THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 15 tended to be conveyed in this i^aj er, musi by this lime have become obvious— vegetable nu- trition is the same thing, neither more nor less than animal nutrition; governed by the same laws, resulting in the same effects, requiring the same provision. Gideon B. Smith. hie; when cool, mix with it a gallon ol lime to each tree, and replace it. If you doubt the eth- cacy of this treatment, try it on a few trees this tall, and we will bet you a peck of “ Ladies’ Blushes” that you’ll subject every fruit tree on your farm to the same operation next fall. — Amer. Fanner. I'lOiii the llulfdlo Commercial Adveniser. WHEAT CULTURE. The past season has been maiked by some important developments in the culture ot wheat. Dr. Noble, ot Delaware, has been reclaiming a worn-out fartn lor several years by the use of street manure obtainea Irom Philadelphia, and particularly with the view ot growing this great staple. Having brought the soil to a pretty lair •State of lertility, he has tried the relative advan- tages of planting wheat iu drills, nine inches apart, and sowing it broad cast in the usual way. The soil and treatment in other respects were precisely alike. Ti.e result was 3-1 bu- shels on the sown land and 43 in the drilled. These experiments were made on fields of some acres. The soil from which this crop was harvested, a few years since 'm Scarborough, England, states that the museum in that place contains a pertect skeleton of an ancient Briton, dug fr m a neighboring burrow or tumulus, six or eight years ago. The skele- ton is perfect, it was enclosed in a rude coffin, the trunk of an oak tree ot vast dimen.sions, roughly hollowed out. The tannin of the oak had so preserved the body that considerable por- tions ol the hair were still cleaving to the scalp, although from various coins, implements and weapons of war, &c., found in the coffin, it was indisputably proved that the body must have been interred at least two thousand years. The action of the tannin had also turned the skeleton perfectly black. The proportions of this curi- ous relic did not justify the common opinion as to the gigantic stature and muscular frames of the early^Britons. The height did not exceed five feet ten or eleven inches, and the bones generally were not above the ordinary size. The only indication of muscular power was iu the amplitude of the chest, and the perfect curve of the ribs. HINTS FOR TR.VNSPLANTING. 1. Many persons plant a tree as they would a post. The novice in planting must consider that a tree is a living, nicely organized produc- tion, as certainly aSected by good treatment as an animal. Many an orchard of trees, rudely thrust into the ground, slrug.;les half a dozen years against the adverse condition before it recovers. 2. In planting an orchard, let the ground be made mellow by repeated plowing. For a tree of moderate size, the hole shoo Id be dug three feel in diameter, and twelve to twenty inches deep. Turn over the soil several times, and it not rich, mix thoroughly with it some compost, or well rotted manure. In every instance the hole must be large enough to admit all the roots easily, without bending. Shorten and. pare monthly, with a knife, any bruised or broken roots. Hold the tree upright, while another per- son, making the earth fine, gradually distributes it among the roots. Shake the tree gently while this filling is going on. The secret lies in care- fully filling in the mould, so that every root, and even the smallest fibre, may meet the soil ; and to secure this, let the operator with hishand spread out the small roots, and fill in the earth nicely around every one. Nine-tenths of the deaths by transplanting arise from the hollows left among the roots of the trees by a rapid and careless mode of shovelling the earth among the roots. 3. When the hole is two-thirds filled, pour in a pail or two of water. This will settle the soil and fill up any little vacuities that may remain. Wait until the water has sunk away, and then fill up the hole, piessing ihe earth moderately around the trees with the foot. The moist earth, being covered by the loose surface soil, will re- tain its humidity for a longtime, indeed we rarely find it necessary to water again after planting in this way, and a little muck or litter placed around the tree, upon the newly moved soil, will render it quite unnecessary. Frequent surface watering is highly injurious, as it causes the lop of the soil to bake so hard as to prevent the access of air and light, both of which, in a certain degree, are absolutely necessary. 4. Avoid the prevalent error (so common and so fatal in this country) of planting your trees too deep. They should not be planted more than inch deeper than they stood before. If they are likely to be thrown out by the frost the first winter, heap a little mound about the stem, to be removed again in the spring. 5. If your soil is positively bad, remove it from the holes, and substi ute a cartload or two of good garden mould. Do not forget that plants must have fond. Five times the common growth may be realized by preparing holes six feel in diameter, and twice the usual depth, en- riching and improving the soil by the plentiful addition of good compost. Young trees cannot be expected to thrive well in sod land. When aj’-oung orchard must be kept in grass, a circle . should be kept dug around each tree. But cul- tivation of the land will cause the trees to ad- vance more rapidly in five years than they will in ten, when it is allowed to remain in grass. Orchards. — If your trees have moss on them, or their bark is rough, scrape them in the spring; but whether they are so or not, take a inixlure ofequal parts of soft soap and sulphur, and paint the trunks from the roots as far upwrards as you can well reach. This wall destroy the insect em- bryo, and preserve yonr trees from the girdling of mice and rats. And to destroy the Worms or embryo which may be in ihe ground, dig the earth from around the roots of the trees, for a tew feet, and to the depth of a few inches, and submit the earth thus up, to the operation of From tlie Albany Cullivalof. HUHUING. Budding is always to be performed v/hen the bark peals freely, which takes place when the stocks are in a rapidly growing state. Gherries and plums should always be budded by the middle ot summer; apples and pears often con- tinue growing rapidly a month later, and peach- es may be done even as late as the commence- ment of autumn. It is indispensable to successful budding, that the sLck be thrifty, and the shoot in which the bud is inserted not more than a year or two old. No skill can succeed in old or stunted stocks lor the canibinm or mucilaginous substance be- tween the bark and wood, which hardens into the new' wood, and w'hich cements the bud to the slock, exists only in .'ulficient quantities for this purpose in fast growing branches. Every bud is an embryo plant, and the object is to transfer this from one tree to another. To effect this, it is only necessary that the bud be cut smoothly from the shoot with a very .small portion of wood with it, and inserted under the raised baii<: of the slock in close contact with the cambium. Provided the stock is thrifty and growing, the bud smoothly cut of!', and closely and evenly applied to the slock, the cambium uniniured by removing the barks and the bud be kept to its place a lew days by a ligature ot moileraie pressure; it is of little consequence how the operation is performed and there can be little danger of failure. The common way ol cutting the bark to re- move it, is to make a transverse cut and longi- tudinal slit, just through it, like the letter T. The bud is then slid downwards, under the bark, in the middle ot the slit. The whole ope- ration should be performed with as little delay as possible. Whatever mode is adopted, the bark should alw'ays he lifted by placing the knife at the edge, and not by running it under, as this al- ways injures the cambium. After the bud is inserted, the w’ hole should be covered, except the bud itself, with a liga- ture of moistened bass, corn-husk, tow, or other soft substance, bound round it with just suffi- cient force to press the bud closely on the slock. In about two weeks, or as soon as the liga- ture begins to cut into the stock, it must be re- moved. Early the fidlowing spring, the stock is to be cut off a quarter of an inch above the bud, and in a direction sloping towards it, and all the branches and other buds carelully re- moved that the whole nouiishment may go to its grow th. Sometimes, as in the apricot, it is best to leave two or three inches of the stock abov'e the bud, to tie the young shoot so that it be not broken dow'n by the w'ind. Disappointment very often arises in budding the peach and apricot, from the bud.s, though well set, being w'inter killed. This may be gen- erally avoided by observing on the trees whence the buds are taken, on what part of the shoots the buds have w'ithstood the preceding winter, and selecting accordingly. These will com- monly be found to be the earliest formed buds on the thriftiest shoots. Shoots cut for budding should always have the leaves removed as soon as they are taken Irom the tree, about a quarter of an inch above the bud. They may then, if needed, be pre- served several days in damp moss or cloth. ^^Goitwhileyoidre YoiLng.'^ — The Ouachita Courier announces the marriage, in that parish, of a gentleman 91 years of ave to a lady of 54. The descendants of the bridegroom— children, grand children, and great grand children- -num- bei no less than 150 sotifs) 16 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. COUTEl/lTS OF THIS HUMBER. Agricultural Associations, Agricultural Education, Budding Calendars for ^ Corn, report of the tillage and product ot an acre ot lU Colton, large yield of 10 Editorials, etc., 9 Extract from Mr. Whipple’s Address, 6 Farming in Virginia, improved 5 Farmers, American the policy of No. 1 5 Farms, premiums for the best managed 6 Fences, remarks on 10 Gama and Bermuda Grass 13 Horses, means of checking runaway 5 Keep it before the People, 9 Olive, the 7 Orchards, to preserve the trees from insects, &c.,.. 15 Planters’ Club of Hancock, annual fair of 1 Planters, list of premiums for 1845 1 Pyramids of Egypt, the 11 Souih Caiolina State Agricultural Society, proceed- ings of 2 Storms, the law of —the Barometer and the tempest, II The North and the South, 12 Transplanting, hints for In Tlnurod oetive J^and, 13 Vegetable Nutrition, If Wheat Culture 13 Wool-Growing, 4 Wool-Growing and Colton Manufacturing in Missis- sippi, A Venerable Bible, 3 ; Steam Whistle, a new 10 ; An Ancien t Relic, 15^ GARDEH AHD FiFLD SEED, A GENERAL assortaient of fresh and genu- ine Garden and Field Seed, among which are the following : Red and white clover. Blue and green grass. Rye and orchard do Timothy and herds do Millet and Lucerne do Seed corn of every valtta- Buckwheat & potato oats. Seed wheat, [ble variety, Kept constantly on hand by the subscriber, all of which ace offered for sale at very moderate prices. All oiders, by mail or otherwise, executed with neat- ness and despatch. Wm. Haines, Jr. 1 No. 232, Broad-street, Augusta, Ga. AGRICULTURAL IMPLEMEHTS. Hazard, denslow & webster. Savannah, Geo., near the City Hotel, Healers in PAINTS, OILS, WINDOW GLASS, GUNPOWDER, SHOT, PAPER, AND AGRICULTURAL IMPLEMENTS. In aadition to their usual slock of the above named articles, ihe subscribers have, within the last year, made large additions to their assortment of Agricul- tural Implements, and now offer to planters a greater variety than any other establishment in the Southern country: amongst which may be found the following articles, viz : PLOWS. Yankee cast iron. No. IQ, lL12an-d20 Plows. Ddgon, or Connecticut wrought No. I, 2 and 3 do Allen pattern, do Riiggles, Nours ;e & Mason’s improved do Viz ; — Ea gle pi ow, heavy, two horse or ox, do d o wi th wheel and cutter. do No. 2 B Plow, for two horses, do “ 2 B do with wheel and cutter. do “ A 3 do medium, two horse, do “A3 do with wheel aud cutter, do “ A 2 do light two horse do “ A 1 do do one mule, or garden do “ 6 in. do do one horse turning do “ 7 i n . do do do do do “ 15 do newpatlerii, 1 horse, for light soil, do Fubsoil do heavy, two horse, or ox do do do No. 1 do do do do do do 0 one horse do Double mould- board or furrowing do Cotton irenchi I'g do Rice do with guage wheel, do A 1 bide-l iiill, or swivel mould-board, do No. 0 d( 5 do for one horse, do MISCELLANEOUS ARTICLES. Plow irons set up, of the above kinds : also, extra stocks, which can be packed in small compass, thereby making a great saving in transportation. Mould- boards, points and heels or landsides, for all the above plows. Improved cultivators, with guage wheel Cultivator plows, or horse hoes, Common Harrows Folding do improved kind, Boxed lever straw cutlers Improved self-feeding strew and corn stalk do, with spiral knives, simple in construction, Corn and cob crushers (hand milll do do for horse power HOES. W. A. Lyndon’s extrablack, Carolinahoes.Nos. 0. 1,2&3 ■ • do 0, 1,2&3 doPP&PPP do 2 & 3 do 2 & 3 Anchor hoes do 00, 0, 1 & 2 lirades, paleiit do doO, l,2,3&4 Light Yankee do CHAINS. titraiglil-linU trace cliains, | Ox chains Twisted do do [ Log chains from 10 to 18 f’t. do bright do do new ground do do oval eye grubbing do do round do do Collins’s Axes. Root’s do King’s do Bond’s do Ames’s Shovels, do Handled Spades, do Socket do Iron Shovels, ass’ted kinds Long Handled Shovels, Manure Forks, Hay do English patent Scythes, American grass do Grass platt do Brush and briar do Briar hooks. Corn cutters. Reap hooks. Scythe Siiaiths, Ox-bows, Horse rackets, Dirt scrapers, Fan mills. Patent churns, Cotton foot gins, i Flails, Axe-helves, \ Swingletrees, Plow lines. Wheelbarrows, Horticultural chests, Pruning shears, Ditching knives, Garden hoes,vaiiouskinds, Garden rakes. Flour-scrapers, Toy hoes, Garden reels. Grain cradles, new pattern, , Transplanting trowels, Rice cradles do i do Forks, Post spoons, j Garden-lines, Ox-yokes, I The subscribers have made such arrangements as will enable them tc procure any improvements which may be made in the plow, or other kinds of implements suit- ed to th’s section, and trust from their greafc»^ariety, mo- derate prices and exertions to please, they may receive a liberal share of public patronage. Planters, mer- chants, and manufacturers are respectfully invited to examine their stock. Orders thankfully received and promptly attended to. l-ly BACOH’S LARD LAMPS. Anew article, superior to all others for this purpose, emit ting a good clear light wilhonl smell or smoke, at an expense, counting Lard at 8 cents a pound, of about a quarter of a cent an hour. These Lamps have been satisfactorily tested, and are recom- mended as “just the thing” for the use of planters, and all others who study utility, neatnes.s and econo- my. A supply of the above Lamps, with Fillers and Wicks for them, for sale by 1 Haviland, Risley & Co. TURHEP SEED. A SUPPLY of the following varieties #f fresh Turnep Seed, just received, viz: Yellow Sweedish or ruta baga, very fine for stock. Large globe turnep, 1 p. . “ While rial do i table Hanover or white rata baga do f “ Norfolk do J For sale in quantities to suit purchasers, by 1 Wm. Haines, Jr. TEXAS COTTOH SEED. ^l^HE subscriber offers for sale, Cot- ton Seed of very superior quality. The original stock was procured in Texas, and culti- vated on his plantation in Newton county, for the last three years, with extraordinary success. The yield is much larger, and the quality superior to the Petit Gulph or other kinds of Cotton usu ally grown in this section of country. Planters who purchase a supply of the seed may rely upon sufficient increase in product of the first crop to refund the outlay for seed. Planters who take an interest in improvements of this sort, are referred to the annexed certifi- cates, and the Cotton raised from the seed may be seen at lh& warehouses of Adams & Hop'fins and Clark & Roberts. JOHN W. GRAVES. A supply of the above described Cotton Seed is offered for sale at the following places, at five dollars per bushel : Adams & Hopkins’s Warehouse 1 Clark & Roberts’s do. La D’Antignag & Evans’s do. [^Augusta. Hand & Williams’s Store, J McKinley & Martin’s Store, Madison. Hill, Morrow & Hill’s Store, ) D. Dickson & Co.’s Store, \ Madison. October 29, 1844. Dear Sir — I regret it was not in my power yes- terday, when I saw you, to give you any opinion with regard to a small lot of cotton I have grow- ing from seed presented to me last spring by my friend John W. Graves, Esq. Since then, how- ever, 1 have been to my plantation and made com- parison of it with my crop of cotton, and now rake pleasure in saying to yon, it is a superior ar- ticle in point of fineness and length of fibre, con- taining more lint on the seed, and will yield much more from the same quantity of land planted. 1 am respectfully, dear sir. Your obedient servant, [Signed) Wm. Johnston. Georgia, Newton County: I hereby certify that 1 obtained from John W. Graves, of this county, a sack of Cotton Seed, (which he represented of superior quality intro* duced from Texas,) which I planted last spring, and find to exceed my most sanguine expectation. I planted it two or three weeks after my other cotton, (which is the Petit Gulph,) and notwith- standing the season was dry and unfavorable throughout the year, (the growing season) yet it is by far the best cotton I ever made. I think by the time it is all gathered, the best part will yield 2000 to 2500 pounds per acre. My neighbors who have seen it are of the same opinion. From the trial I have made, I believe it will yield double as much as my other cotton on land of the same fer- tility. [Signed] Jackson Harwell. 24th October, 1844. Georgia, Morgan County; This is to certify that I am neighbor to JohnT McNeil, Esq., and that he last spring got a load of Texas Cotton Seed from John W. Graves, Esq., of Newton county, and planted them on what I consider average land of his farm ; and from frequent observation of the crop, with his other cotton, (which is the Petit Gulph,) I do be- lieve it will far excel any other cotton I have ever seen raised in this section of country. And I also believe that the staple excels any other I have ever examined, as to fineness and color. [(Signed] John P. Evans. This will certify that I acted as overseer for Mr. J ohn T. McNeil for the year 1 844. My know- ledge of farming induces me to believe that the Texas Cotton, raised by Mr. McNeil this year, is a very superior article, and with me preferable to any other cotton I have ever raised. It is of long and fine staple, and well boiled, and easily picked out, and has withstood a drought this year belter than the Petit Gulph Cotton. It is, in a word, a valuable cotton. I have ginned eight bales of the Texas Cotton on Mr. McNeil’s Carver.. Gin, and find that it yields one pound of clear < ifton from three of seed cotton ; and from my experience of thirty years in cotton growing, I have never rais- ed any I think equal to the Texas Cotton. [(Signed] Allison Kent. Augusta, October 30, 1844. John W. Graves, Esq.: Dear Sir — Having been called on by you to make a statement in relation to your Texas Cot- ton, we take pleasure in saying, that for the last tv/o or three years we have received at our ware- house your cotton crops. The quality has inva- riably proved very superior, both as to color and length of staple. On sale, it has always brought the highest market price. We consider it a very superior article in the cotton line. Your obedient servants, Adams & Hopkins. Mr. John T. McNeil : Dear Sir — We hav’e received the two bales of Texas Cotton sent by you to us, and take pleas- ure in saying that in color and length of staple it is superior to anything we have seen ; and cheer- fully recommend it as such as will always bring the highest market price. Your obedient servants. n5-wp&Ctf Clark & Roberts. THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR is published by J. W. & W. S. JONES, And will be issued on the Jirst of every Month. TERMS. 1 copy one year $ 1 00 6 copies “ “ 5 00 25 “ “ “ 20 00 100 “ “ “ 75 00 The CASH SYSTEM will be rigidly adhered to, and in no case will the paper be sent unless the money accompanies the order. Advertisements pertaining to agiicifiture will be inserted for one dollar for eveiy square or less, for the first insertion, and seventy-five cents per square for each continuance. f;;^PosT MASTERsare authorized to receive and forward money free of postage. All COMMUNICATIONS must BE POET P.* ID and addressed to JAMES CAMAK, Esq., Athens, Georgia. All subscriptions to commence with the vol- ume. Voi^ III Ko. 2. AUGUSTA, GA., FEBRUARY 1, 1845. HEMP CULTURE. The following essay on the culture of Hemp was originally published iu the Western Agri- culturist. It is a complete treatise on the best manner of raising and preparing an article, which always commands cash sufficient to re- ward liberally the cultivator who proceeds cor- rectly in obtaining this valuable product. The author of the essay is not less favorably known as a statesman than as a practical and scientific agriculturist, and the signature of Henry Clay will give it that weight and currency with Ame- rican farmers v/hich is due to its intrinsic ex- cellence. CULTURE AND PREPARATION* OP HEMP. BY THE HON. HENSY CLAY. S.'r: — Having promised you some account of the method of cultivating and preparing hemp in this state, I now proceed to redeem it. I shall endeavor to descnbe the general pracrice of ihe <:uiti valors, without noticing all the deviations of particular individuals. The district of country in which the plant is most extensively cultivated, is the ElKhcro re- .gion around and near Lexington, which derives its namj from a stream discharging itself into the Kentucky river, whose branches are supposed to resemble the horns of the elk. It is also pro- duced in considerable quantities in the counties of Jefferson, Shelby, Mercer, Aladison, Clarke, Bourbon, and Mason The soil of that region is a rich, deep, vegetable loam, free from sand and with but little grit. It lies on a bed of clay, interspersed with smalt fragments of iron ore’ and this clay in its turn reposes on a mass of Hmestone lying many feet in depth in horizon- tal strata. The surface of the country is gene- raHy_ undulatiEg. The rich land (and there is but little that is not rich) in this whole region is well adapted to the growth of hemp, where it has not been too much exhausted by injurious tillage. The lands which produce it best are those which are fresh, or which have lain some time in grass o" clover. Manuring is not yet much practised. Clover is used in lieu of it. Lands which remain in clover four or five jmars without beinj too constantly and closely grazed recover their virgin fertility. The character of the soil in the other counties above mentioned does not vary materially from that in the Elk- horn district. The preparation of the groaiid forsowingthe seed is by the plow and horses, until the clods are sufficiently pulverized or dissolved, and the surface oi the field is rendered even and smooth. It should be as carefully prepared as if it were for flax. This most important point, too often neglected, cannot be attended to too much. Scarcely any other crop betterrewardsdilio'ence and careful husbandry. Fall or winter plowing is practised with advantage j it is indispensable in old meadows, or old pasture grounds, inten- ded for producing hemp. Plants for seerl are ordinarily reared in a place distinct from that in which they are cultivated Lr the lint. In thi< re.spect. the usage is differ- p' - ' '=mod to prevail in 1^1 ''pe. ne -seeds which are intended to re- pr ,dn.. .ee u r,,, in drills about four feet apart. When they are grown sufficiently to distinguish between the male and female stalks, the former are pulled and thrown away, and the latter are thinned, leaving the stalks separated seven or eight inch- es from each other. This operation is usuaMy performed in the blooming season, when the sexual character of the plants is easily discerni- ble; the male alone blossoming, and, when agi- j tated, throwing off fariaa, a yellow dust or flour, ■ which fails and colors the ground, or any other I object that comes in contact with it. A few of 1 the male plants had better be left, scattered j through the drill, until the farina is complete- I ly discharged, for an obvious reason. Between I the drills a plow is run sufficiently often to keep I the ground free from weed;.- and grass; and be- j tween the stalks in each drill the hoe is employ- ed for the same object. The seed plants are I generally cut after the first smart frost, between the 25th September and the middle of October, and carried to a barn or stack-yard, where the I seeds are easily detached by the common flail, j They should be gathered after a slight, but be- I fore a severe frost; and, as they fall out very j jasily, it is advisable to haul the plants on a sled, and, if convenient, when they are wet. If j transported on a cart or wagon, a sheet should be spread to catch the seed as they shatter out. After the seed.s are separated, the stalks which bore them being too large, coarse, and harsh, to produce lint, are usually thrown away; they may be profitably employed in making charcoal for the use of powder-mills. In Europe, where the male and female pianis are promiscuously grown together in the same field, both for seeds and fur lint, the male stalks are first gathered, and the female suffered to remain growing un- til the seeds are ripe, when they are also gather- ed; the seeds secured and lint obtained, alter the rotting, from both descriptions. After the seeds are threshed out, it is advisa- ble to spread them on the floor, to cure properlv and prevent their rotting, before they are finally put away for use the next spring. Seeds are not generally used unless they were secured the tail previous to their being sown, as it is be- lieved they will not vegetate if older; but it has been ascertained that when they are properly cured and kept dry, they will come up after the first year. It is important to prevent them from heating, which destroys the vegetating property, and tor that purpose they should be thinly spread on a sheltered floor. The seeds, whether to produce seeds only, or the lint, are sowed about the same time. Opin- ions vary as to the best period. It depends a good deal upon the season. The plant'is very tender when it first shoots up; and is affected by frost. Some have sowed as early as the first of April; but it is generally agreed, that all the month of May, and about the 10th of it especial- ly, is the most favorable time. An experienced and successful hemp grower, in the neighbor- hood cf Lexington, being asked the be.st time to sow hemp, answered, immediate, y before a rain. And undoubtedly it is very fortunate to have a moderate rain directly after sowing. M'hen the object is to make a crop of hemp. * Would it not be well to soak the seed in water a few hours previou-- to sowiojj ? Wg have found this f’’ ^ ■ v'-ii y a> _ - .-t pa.'p..,.e as rai.i atier . o..-- iiig. With all seeds with which we have tried it. The vegetation of mangel-wurizel is wonderfully accele- rated by il.— Ed. Am. Farmer. the seeds are sown broad-cast. The usual quan- tity is a bushel and a half to the acre ; but here again the farmers differ, some using two bu- sh.e]s or even two and a half. Much depends on the strength and fertility ol the soil, and the care with which it has been prepared, as well as the season. To these causes mai’’ be ascribed the diversity of opinion and practice. The ground can only sustain and nourish a cer- tain quantity of plants; and if that limit be pas- sed, the surplus will be smothered in the growth. When the seeds are sown, they are plowed or harrowed in; plowing is best in old ground, as it avoids the inj uric -is effect of beating rain, and the consequent baking of the earth. It would be also beneficial subsequently to roll the ground with a heavy roller. After the seeds are sown, the labors of the cultivator are suspended, until the plants are ripe, and in a state to be gathered; everything in the intermediate time being left to the operations of nature. If the season be favora- ble until the plants are sufficiently high to shade the ground, (which they will do in a few weeks, at six or eight inches’ height,) there is strong probabiliw uf a good crop. When they attain that height, but lew articles sustain the effect of bad seasons better than hemp. It is generally ripe and ready to be gathered about the middle of August, vailing according to the time of sowing. Some sow at different periods, in order that the crop may not ripen at the same time, and that a press of labor in rearing it may be thus avoided. The maturity of the plant is determined by the evaporation of the farina, already noticed, and the leaves of the plant exhibiting a yellowish hue ; it is then generally supposed to be ripe, but it is safest to wait a lew days longer. Ver_v little attentive observation will enable any one to judge when it is fully ripe. In that respect it is a very ac- commodatieg crop, for if gathered a little too soon, the lint is not materially injured, and it will wait the leisure of the farmer some ten days or a fortnight after it is entirely ripe. Two modes of gathering the plant are prac- tised, one by pulling them up by the roots, an easy operation with an able-bodied man, and the other by cutting them about two inches (the nearer the better) above the surface of the ground. Each mode has us partisans, and I have pursued both. From a quarter to a third of an acre is the common task of an average la- borer, whether the one or the other mode is practised. The objections to palling are, that the plants with their roots remaining connected with them, are not afterwards so easily handled in the several operations which they must un- dergo; that all parts of the plant do not rot equally and alike, when exposed to the dew and rain ; and, finally, that before you put them to the brake, when the root should be separated from the stalk, the root drags off with it some of the line. The objection to cutting is, that you lose two or three inches of the best part of the plant nearest the root. Pulling being the most ancient method, is most generally practised. I prefer, upon the v.-hole, cutting; and I believe the number who prefer it is yearly increasing. When pulled, it is done with the hand, which is better for the protection of an old leatherglove. The labo.ver catches iweiuy or thirtv plants to- gether, with both har.ti?, ana by asuduenjerk ffiaws them without mucli difficulty. The ope- ration ol cutting i.s performed with a knife, oft 18 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. ten made out of an old scythe, resembling a sickle, though not so long, but broader. This knile is applied much in the same v/ay as the sickle, except that the laborer stoops more. ■Whether pulled or cut, the plants are care- ftilly laid on the ground, the evener the better, to cure ; .which they do in two or three days, in dry weather. A light rain tailing on them whilst lying down is thought by some to be beneficial, inasmuch as the leaves, of which they should be deprived, may be easier shaken ofl^ or detached. When cured, the plants are set up in the field in which they were produced, in shocks of convenient size, the roots or butt ends resting on the ground, and the tops united above by a band made ol the plants themselves. Previous to putting them up in shocks, most cultivators tie the plants in small hand bundles of such a size as that each can be conveniently held in one hand. Before the shocks are form- ed, the leaves ol the plants should be rapidly knocked ofiT with a rough paddle or hooked stick. Some suflfer the plants to remain in these shocks until the plants are spread down to be rotted. Others, again, collect the shocks together as soon as they can command leisure, (and it is clearly best,) and lorm them into stacks. A few farmers permit the slacks to remain over a whole year, before the plants are exposed to be rotted. I have frequently done it with advantage, and have at this time lu’o crops in stalks. By re- maining that period in stalks, the plants go through a sweat, or some other process, that im- proves very much the appearance, and, I be- lieve, the quality of the lint, and this improve- ment fully compensates the loss of time in bring- ing it to market. The lint has a soft texture and a lively hue, resembling w'aier rotted hemp; and I once sold a box of it in the Baltimore mar- ket at the price of Russia hemp. In every other respect, the plants are treated as if they were not kept over a year. The method of dew rotting is that which is generally practised in Kentucky. The lint so spread is not so good for many purposes, and especially for rigging and ships, as when the plants have been rotted by immersion in water, or, as it is generally termed, water rotted. The greater vaiue, and consequently higher price, of the article prepared in the latter way, has induced more and more of our farmers every year to adopt it; and if that prejudice were sub- dued, which every American production unfor- tunately encounters when it is first introduced and comes in contact with a rival European commodity, I think it probable that in a lew years we should be able to dispense altogether with foreign hemp. The obstacles which pre- vent the general practice of water rotting are, the want of water at the best season lor the ope- ration, which is the month of September; a re- pugnance to the change ol an old habit ; and a persuasion, which has some foundation, that handling the plants after their submersion in wa- ter during that month is injurious to health. The first and last of these obstacles would be removed by water rotting early in the winter, or in the spring. The only difference in the operation, performed at those seasons and in the month of September, would be, that the plants would have to remain longer in soak belore they were sufficiently rotted. The plants are usually spread down to be dew rotted from the middle of October to the middle of December. A farmer who has a large crop on hand puts them down at dififerent times for his convenience in handling and dressing them. Autumnal rotting is more apt to give the lint a dark and unsightly color than winter rotting. The best ground to expose the plants upon is meadow or grass land, but they are not un fre- quently spread over the same field on which they grow. The length of time they ought to re- main exposed depends upon the degree of mois- ture and the temperature of the weather that prevail. In a very wet and warm spell five or six weeks may be long enough. 'Whether they have been sufficiently rotted or not is determined by experiment. A Kandful is taken and broken by the hand or applied to the brake, when it can be easily ascertained, by the facility with which the lint can be detached from the stalk, if it be properly rotied. If the plants remain on the ground too long, the fibres lose some of their strength, though a few days longer than neces- sary, in cold weather, will not do any injury. If they are taken up too soon, that is, before the lint can be easily separated from the woody part of the stalk,*it is harsh, and the process of breaking is difficult and troublesome. Snow' rotting, that is, when the plants, being spread out, remain long enough to rot, (which however requires a greater length of time,) bleaches the lint, improves the quality, and makes it nearly as valuable as if it had been water rotted. After the operation of rotting is performed, the plants are again collected together, put in shocks or stacks, or, which is still better, put under a shed or some covering. When it is de- signed to break and dress them immediately, they are frequently set up against some neigh- boring fence. The best period for breaking and dressing is in the months of February and March, and the best sort of weather frosty nights and clear thawing days. The brake cannot be used advantageously in wet or moist weather. It is almost invariably used in this State out of doors and without any cover; and to assist its operation, the laborer often makes a large fire near it, which serves the double pur- pose of drying the plants and warming himself It could not be used in damp weather in a house without a kiln or some other means of drying the stalks. The brake in general use is the same hand brake which was originally introduced and has been always employed here, resembling, though longer than, the common flax brake. It is so well known as to render a particular description of it, perhaps, unnecessary. It is a rough con- trivance, set upon four legs, about fwo and a half feet high. The brake consists of tw’o jaws with slits on each, the low'er jaw fixed and immovable, and the upper one movable, so that it may be lifted up by means of a handle inserted into a head or block at the front end of it. The lower jaw has three slats or teeth, made of tough white oak, and the upper two, arranged approaching to about two inches in front, and in such manner that the slats of the upper jaw play between those of the lower. These slats are about six or seven feet in length, six inches in depth, and about two inches in thickness in their lower edges; they are placed edgewise, rounded a little on their upper edges, which are sharper than those below. The la- borer takes his stand by the side ol the brake, and grasping in his left hand as many of the stalks as he can conveniently hold, with his right hand he seizes the handle in the head of the upper jaw, which he lifts, and throwing the handful of stalks between the jaws, repeatedly strikes them by lifting and throwing down the upper jaw. These successive strokes break the w'oody or reedy part of the stalks into small pieces or shoes, which fall off during the pro- cess. He assists their disengagement by stri- king the handful against a stake, or with a small wooden paddle, until the lint or bark is entirely clean, and completely separated from the woody particles. Alter the above operation is performed, the hemp may be scutched, to soften it, and to strengthen the threads. That process, however, is not thought to be profitable, and is not there- fore generally performed by the grower, but is left to the manufacturer, as well as that of beat- ing and hackling it. Scutching is done by the laborer taking in his lelt hand a handful of the lint, and grasping it firmly, then laying the mid- dle ol it upon a semicircular notch of a perpen- dicular board of the scutching frame, and stri- king with the edge of the scutch that part of the lint which hangs down on the board. After giving it repeated strokes, he shakes the handful of lint, replaces it on a notch, and continues to strike and turn all parts of it, until it is suffi- ciently cleansed, and the fibres appear to be even and straight. The usual daily task of an able-bodied hand at the brake is eighty pounds’ weight; but there is a great difference not only in the state of the weather and the condition of the stalks, produ- ced by the greater or less degree in which they have been rotted, but in the dexterity with which the brake is employed. Some hands have been known to brake from one hundred and fifty to two hundred pounds per day. The laborer ties up in one common bundle the work of one day, and in this state it is taken to market and sold. From w'hat has been mentioned, it may be in- ferred, as the fact is, that the hemp of some growers is in a much better condition than that of others. "When it has been carelessly handled or not sufficiently cleansed, a deduction is made from the price by the purchaser. It is chiefly bought in our villages, and manufactured into cotton bagging, bales, and other kinds ol uniar- red cordage. The price is not uniform. The extremes have been as low as three and as high as eight dollars for the long hundred, the cus- tomary mode of selling it. The most general price during a term of many years has been from four to five dollars. At five dollars it com- pensates well the labor of the grower, and is considered more profitable than anything else the farmer has cultivated. The most heavy labor in the culture of hemp is pulling or cutting it, when ripe, and breaking it when rotted. This labor can easily be per- formed by men. Various attempts have been made to improve the process of breaking, which is the severest work in the preparation of hemp. A newly invented machine was erected for that purpose on my farm six or eight years ago, to dress hemp by dispensing with rotting altogether, similar in structure to one which was exhibited about the same time at Columbus, during the sit- ting ol the Ohio Legislature. It was worked by horse power, and detached the lint tolerably well, producing a very fine looking article,equalling in appearance Russia hemp. A ton of it was sold to the navy department, which was manufac- tured into rigging for the ship of the line the North Carolina, prior to her making a voyage of three years in the Mediterranean. Upon her return, the cordage was examined and analyzed ; and although its exterior looked very well, it was found, on opening it, to be decayed and af- fected somewhat like the dry rot in wood. I considered the experiment decisive ; and it is now considered that the processor water or dew retting is absolutely necessary, either before or after the hemp has been to the brake. There is a sappy or glutinous property of which it should be divested, and that is the only process that has been hitherto generally and successful- ly employed to divesi it. An ingenious and enterprising gentleman in the neighborhood of Lexington has been, ever since the erection of the above mentioned ma- chine, trying various experiments, by altering and improving it, to produce one more perfect, which might be beneficially employed on rotted hemp, to diminish the labors of the brake. He mentioned the other day that all of them had failed; that he had returned to the old hand brake, and that he was convinced that it answer- ed the purpose belter than any substitute with which he was acquainted. 1 observe Mr. H. L. Barnum has recently advertised a machine which he has constructed for breaking and dres- sing hemp and flax, which can be procured at the establishment of Mr. Smith, in Cincinnati. I most cordially wish him success; but the number of failures which 1 have witnessed, du- ring a period of thirty years, in the attempt to supersede manual labor by the substitution of that ol machines, induces me to fear that it will be long before this desideratum is attain- ed. The quantity of net hemp produced to the acre is from six hundred to one thousand weight, varying accoraing to the fertility and prepara- tion ol the soil and the state of the season. It is said that the quantity which any field will pro- duce may be anticipated by the average height of the plants throughout the field. Thus, if the plants will average eight feet in height, the acre will yield eight hundredweight of hemp; each THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 19 loot Id height corresponding to a hundred weight ol the lint. Hemp exhausts the soil slowly, if at all. An old and successful cultivator told me that he had thirteen or fourteen successive crops from the same field, and that the last was the best. That was probably however owing to a con- currence ol favorable circumstances. Nothing cleanses and prepares the earth better for other crops (especially for small grain or grasses) than hemp. It eradicates all weeds, and when it is taken off, leaves the field not only clean, but smooth and even. The rich lands of Ohio, Indiana, and Illinois, are, 1 have no doubt, generally well adapted to the cultivation oftnis valuable plant; and those States enjoy some advantages for the cultivation of it which this does not possess. Their streams do not dry up as much as ours, and they conse- quently employ better than we can the agency of water in the preparation of it. Their pro- jected canals, when completed, will admit of its being carried to the Atlantic capitals at less ex- pense in the transportation than we can send it. On the other hand, the unfortunate state of sla- very among us gives us, at present, probably, a more certain command ol labor than those States have. BOOK FARMING.— A FACT. “1 want to know if you believe in this book farming?” said a neighbor as he walked into the room, where I sat reading the Cultivator. “ Be sure I do,” was the reply. “ Well, I don’t; I never took an agricultural paper in my life. There is B. S. of W -, who came into the country fifteen years ago, and had to buy fifty acres ol land on credit. He has cleared that up, and added from time to time, till he now owns two hundred acres — has good buildings, and money at interest. He al- ways has good crops. He has averaged tioemty- five bushels of wheat to the acre for several years; it is the same with all his other crops. While his neighbor E. W. has not raised more than seven bushels of wheat to the acre, and some of his other crops he never harvests. I would give more for the experience of B. S. than for all the book farming and farming by rule in the world.” “ Very well, sir, now let me have a word. This ‘experience’ ofB. S. of which you speak, (i. e. the method he adopts to raise twenty-five where his neighbor raises seven bushels of wheat, and other crops in proportion,) if writ- ten out and published, would be the very essence of book farming, which you so much despise, and might benefit others as well as you. And then, secondly, 1 know this B S. also, and it gives me pleasure to inform you that he is a re- gular subscriber to, and constant reader three standard agricultural papers — the Cultivator, the New Genesee Farmer, and the Western Farmer, while this same E. W. wdll not have an agricultural paper in his house, partly be- cause he does not 'believe in book farming,' and partly because he cannot afford to take such a 'paper P Here the man suddenly remembered his er- rand, which was to borrow an improved har- row, a plan of which I had found in my paper, and which he was pleased to say, “did the work so much better than mine,” (his) — so the subject dropped. I intend to speak to him again, ere long. " H. Ohio, Oct. 14, 1844. Albany Cult. Cooking Beets. — Having washed them free of dirt, roast them in the fire as you do potatoes. When the process of cooking is completed, peel and serve up in the usual manner. It is a dish fit for the stomach ol the most fastidious epi- cure, At least, so says one who has tried it. — Maine CuU. Not to grow better is sure to end in growing worse. Revenge begins in anger, and ends in repent- ance. From ihe So. Ca. Temperauce Advocato. STATE AGRICULTURAL SOCIETF. REPORTS SUB.MITTED, NOV. 1844. REPORT ON RICE. The past season was one of unusual drought throughout the State. In every section, there are not wanting instances in which the wells failed. Although the Rice crop, being irrigated by the flooding of the tides, is less dependant than any other upon the rains of the season; yei so universal and unprecedented a drought could not fail to afiecc this, in common with other grain crops. The Planters on Cooper River have suffered most severely — that river having been salt to a considerable extent througdout the season, in- stead of an average production ol 22,OUO barrels on this river— it is believed the crop will fall short of 12,000 barrels. South of Charleston to Savannah river in- clusive, the rivers have been more or less affect- ed with salt, and the crop will not prove to be a full one. North of Charleston on the rivers Santee, Pee Dee, Waccamaw and Black river, th’ two extremes of the Rice-planting region, have been somewhat affected in production; the one by salt-water — the other by the short tides which occurred in May and June, (the months for subduing grass,) but the yield has been so gene- rally good on the best pitch ol tides, it is believed that notwithstanding the usual tribute levied in September, by the rice birds, t..e crop of Rice on these rivers, will be an average one. The quality of the grain prepared thus far is good generally. There is in some parcels, however, much of the chalky appearance, the cause of which is not accurately ascertained, it is respectfully suggested that a premium be offered for the dis- covery of the cause of this blemish in the grain. A premium also, for the disclosure of the cause of rust in Rice. The Essay in both instances to be accompanied by a detail of the remedy most successfully used during a term of years, for correction of the evil. The “ big grain rice” so favorably mentioned in the last report, has been somewhat extensive- ly cultivated this year. The harvest is so recently over, and so little of the general crop has been brought to market, the writer can do no better in respect ol this grain than furnishing the results of his own ex- perience for the season. With the exception of twenty-three acres, he sowed the whole of his planting in this seed, treating it in the manner usual with him, (excepting '6 acres, upon which he experimented, as will be detailed hereafter. As far as the crop has been threshed and pre- pared, the following are the results, as com- pared with the preceding year. From field No. 7, 27 acres, less 3, (the margin not planted this year)— 24 acres tnreshed early in October, made 1344 bushels against 27 acres, which last year made 1594 busnels. Nos. 1, 2, 3, together 45 acres, made 2116 bushels, against 2291 bushels last year. No. 10, 46 acres, 2560 busnels, against 2187. In every instance, the Rice brought more in market, and when well cured, turned out as well under the pestle. A planter on the South side ol Savannah river, who sowed some of his best land in this seed, says that it yielded m the rough 70 bushels to the acre. The experiments alluded to above, were made with the sulphate of lime, (gypsum,) and the nitrate ol potass, (saltpetre.) The tests were not complete. They will be repeated another year. It is understood that rice has been cultivated with the plow chiefly the past season, and pro- fitably by Mr Gluash, (on inland swamp,) and others; also that the method in harvesting of cradling rice, has been practised by some gen- tlemen on Cooper river with success satisf actory to them. All which is respectfully submitted. Columbia, Nov, 26, ’ik. R, F. W. Allston. Mr. President:— I beg leave to present for the examination of the Society, over which you preside, the enclosed account of an experiment made by me the last year in a Mineral manure, as applied to the culture of the staple which I ^ plant, and to submit the production of grain to ^ the consideration of your Committee, s Very respectfully, R. F. W. Aulston, Columbia, Nov. 25, 1344. 1 EXPERIMENT IN RICE. ? Field No. 12, was planted 16th April, 1844, ^ 2^ bushels of seed per acre, covered with water, ^ and plowed until the sprout was entirely green . — the water was then drawn. As soon as the ^ plant was strong enough, it was hoed rather ^ deep, and the low water put on deep for four days,then slacked down to about halt the height ® of the plant; at this height the water remained ^ until the plant acquired sufficient strength to stand upright, when the water was slacked down a little, the grass picked out, and then as ■ soon as the turbidness of the water had suffi- " ciently subsided, it was drawn off. Two or three days after, namely, on the 18ih J une, two » J quarter beds, (38i feet wide,) at one end of ^ the field, 698 feet in length, were treated with ^ 86 lbs. of nitrate of potass, (saltpetre,) finely ’ powdered, and sowed broadcast over the two ^ beds. As soon as the ground was sufficiently '■ dry, namely, about ten days from the drawing ' of the water, the rice was hoed deep. Alter- *• wards, on the 10th of July, it was lightly brush- [ ed tlirough with a hoe, and laid by, the long ' grass was picked out late in the season, and the rice harvested two days after the stormy rain ’ in September, namely, the 12th, , It was threshed and winnowed on the 19th Nov., 1844, in the presence of George T. Ford, I Esq., who also saw it measured, as well as the land. The production was nvnety-tioo bushels, three pecks and three quarts, of clean winnowed rice, independent ol the straw and flat rice. Estimating the contents of the acre at 45,000 square feet, which is usual among planters, this product is at the rate of 78| bushels per acre. R, F. W. Allston. Matonza, Pee Dee, Nov. 19, 1844. 1 hereby certify that the foregoing facts, as far as the threshing, winnowing and measuring of the rice and land is concerned, are strictly true, having been done in my presence. George T. Ford. The foregoing facts are entirely within my own knowledge, Jesse Belfeowers, Columbia, Nov. 26, 1844. Hon. Whitemarsh B. Seabrook; — Dear Sir: — 1 send you herewith a small package containing several ears of a species of Millet, which is cultivated by many planters of Orangeburg District, as a substitute lor proven- der for work horses and cattle, during the warm season of the year. Many planters use no other provender from the latter part of May, until about the middle of September, and it is regarded by them as supe- rior in most respects to the fodder of Indian corn — lo oats, pea-vines, gama or rye-grass. One acre of it willfeed eight horses — it should be used in a green state, and is exceedingly nutricious. It is planted like upland cotton in rows, three feet apart, in drill or in chops nine inches apart on the bed, and in rich land may be cut every fifteen days. Cotton seed and stable manure in equal parts, make a good manure for it, and it should be worked with the plow or hoe alter every cutting, 1 have received so much advan- tage from planting it, that I would be pleased to see it in general use. 1 am, dear sir, with great respect. Your ob’t. serv’t., D. F, Jamison. The enclosed statement, together with two certificates, designed to accompany a sample of fine Sea Island Cotton, is respectfully submitted to the State Agricultural Society of South Caro- lina, by Archibald H, Seabrook. Edista Island, Nov. 18, 1844. 20 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. Gentlemen of the State Ag. Society of So. Ca. : In offering for the preoaium for “the greatest production ot Sea Island Cotton, having refer- ence to quality and valuation,” the undersigned begs leave to make the lollowing statement ; The ten acres of land on which the cotton wa.*^ grown is high and of a close texture. Origi- nally strong, it has been much impoverished by injudicious cultivation and management. On eight acres, Irom which 5440 pounds have been gathered, 160 piled single-horse cart loails of marsh were put in, in August, 1843, immediate- ly after being cut. These were not entirely co- vered, as is the usual practice, but a lew hoe- fuls of earth were placed on them at short dis- tances, to prevent the depredations of cattle, and some ol the most valuable properties ol the grass trom being washed away by rain. The cotton on the remaining two acres, was not de- signed to be mixed with the general bulk, for as they had been assisted only with pine straw, and a lew loads of salt mud, on one third of the land, there was no ground for believing that the yield, under the most favorable circumstances, would be large. These acres, it is confidently supposed, did not together realize over 400 lbs.; thus render- ing the product of the eight acres designed for the premium, in reality 5440 lbs., as already stated. In height, the plants on the latter ave- raged about 4J feet, while on the former not over 3 feet. The mode of cultivation did not differ from that usually adopted by the grower. It is to the manure and the manner of applying it, that the undersigned would briefly invite the at- tention of the Society. According to the customary usage, the marsh cut in July or August, is piled up and not taken to the field until after the crop has been prepared for market. At that time it will be found that the quantity has been lessened one-half, and the quality much depreciated. By the scheme adopted by the undersigned, the grass was al- lowed to rot on the ground intended for cultivct- tion. In this way the saline and other ingredi- ents not evaporable were preserved. Bv expo- sure too, for several months, to the combined action of air, light and moisture, the process of decomposition in the spring is regular, and the matter becomes food for the plants early in the season. If a complete listing be given to the land in the summer, these results do not take place so soon, and when they occur, the decay is fre- quently so rapid, that injury to the plants, espe- cially if the season be variable, may with cer- tainty be looked for. The “blue disease,” (among other causes,) arises from excess of nu- triment, furnished by salt-grass, in a state of too high fermentation. Where the parts are allow- ed to be broken down, or fully prepared to yield to the power of the decomposing agents, by be- ing thrown into heaps of any size, or partially covered in the manner already stated, the under- signed has never known or heard of any other than the most salutary effects flowing from the practice. The plan of putting the marsh on the ground intended for the crop in sumnner, is much preferred, for thereby nothing is lost that is in the power olthe planter to save. Other decided advantages of a minor and different character, may be enumerated, to one of which only, he will now adyert. It is the only practicable mode of making an allotment of work to the laborers. The task lor each reaper is three piled cart loads per day, which, after being determined by the head cartman, who for this reason should be a faithful slave,) is immediately taken to the field. By this means the master is able to ascertain with great accuracy, the quantity of work of this kind which can be done by any number of men in a given time. The undersigned would further observe, that the season, though in general favorable to the cotton crop, v^as too dry tor high lands, and that although in other fields, naturally or artificially richer, a greater product per acre has probably been made, it is doubtful whether, looking to the anticipated yield in money, the labor of the grower will anywhere be better rewarded. From the fineness of the staple, it requires 1500 lbs. in the seed to make 300 lbs. of clean- ginned cotton. At this rate, if the cotton com- mands the lowest price at which it has been valued by two distinguished factors in Charles- ton, (whose certificates accompany this,) the amount in money, per acre, will be, for the ten acres, -76 cents; or, for the eight acres, de- ducting 400 lbs. for the two acres unintentionally thrown in, $95.20 cents; making $761.60 cents lor the eight acres. A. H. Seabrook. The undersigned, factors and sellers of fine Sea Island Cotton in the Charleston market, hereby certify that they have examined and valu- ed a sample of Sea Island Colton, represented as the growth of the present year, and produced by A. H. Seabrook, Esq., of Edisto Island. The sample is of beautiful and extra quality, preparation good, soft, long and very fine staple. As no cotton of the same description has thus far been sold or offered for sale in the market, they are unable to affix a value to if at this time. By co.mparing Lire specimen with, similar cotton sold last season, they are decidedly ol opinion that it would have somsaanded then, from 70 to 75 cents per Ik James 0'’Heah. Wm. M. Lawton. Charleston^ S. C.,,Nov. 21, 1844, I hereby certify that Mr. A. H. Sgabrook’s Colton, called the Clueen, aad produced from ten acres of land, was weighed in my presence, this sixteenth day ot November, 1844, and turn- ed out five thousand eight hundred and forty (5840) pounds, gross, Wm. F. Megsett. REPORT OF THE CAMBRIDGE AG. SOCIETY, On the situation of Whitfield Brooks's Plantation, and its claims for the Premium to- be awarded for the best managed Plantation. At the request of Mr. Whitfield Brooks, of the District of Edgefield, we have examinedhis plantation with all the minuteness and accura- cy, which circumstances would allow, and sub- mit the following Report : The land in cultivation is represented So be about 700 acres, ot which one-third may be de- nominated swamp and second low grounds, and the remaining two-thirds, high land, under one continuous line of fence, with dividing fences at convenient distances, separating the whole into fields varying from 30 to 120 .cres. The high land is in a clean condition, free from trees, logs, briars or gullies, and in a state of pro- gressive improvement by the rotation ot crops, and the application ot manure. The low land has been thoroughly drained by two main ditch- es of large size and many smaller drains, where the condition of the land required them. Culti- vation extends to the border of the ditches and branches, the latter having been straightened and cleared out, to admit the free passage of water. The land in cultivation, presents the appearance of an undulating valley, formed by the junction of several small streams, from an elevated point of which the eye commands a view of the whole area of the plantation, with the crop of cotton, corn and small grain, in their present condition. There is a raised and well made road, passing nearly through the centre of the fields, and branching off in various direc- tions, as necessity or convenience required. Gales are erected at every cross fence, which afford an easy passage to all parts of the plan- tation, We saw about 200 acres in corn, 250 in coltoHj from 126 to 160 acres, which had been in wheat, oats, rye and barley, and about 90 acres in wheat, rye and oats, lor the fall sowing of grain, all of which is in a state of apparent gradual improvement and skillul cultivation, having yielded a good crop the present year, notwithstanding the severe drought which pre- vailed in this section. We next directed our attention to his houses, fixtures and lots, of various kinds and sizes. The stable lot is of good size, well shaded and supplied with water from a well, near at hand, which is worked by a pump, and from which the water is conveyed by troughs. In this lot stands a large two story framed stable, divided on the lower story into stalls, and affording a capacious repository in the second story for fod- der and oats. On each side of the stable, is a framed shed, used as a shelter for the wagons, and lor the feeding of horses in summer. At the north end ol the stable, another shed has been erected about 30 feet square, with a trough and rack in the centre, for the use of the xhules in summer, having a large apartment above for fodder. These are substantial buildings, and well covered with shingles. Besides these, there is a line of lug buildings, extending Irom 40' to 50 yard's fn length, with stalls for separate horses and oxen, and apartments for harness, having, in the rear a large shed lor oxen. This lot has a communication by means of gates with various other lots, as appurtenant to the stable, one of which is appropriated to oxen, another with shade trees and a stream of water, into which the stock is turned for rest or gentle ex- ercise. The third is a gtuve, neatly trimmed and cleaned,, which is Bsed for various purposes,, occasionally for cows and young pigs, lor sheep,, or for horses and mules that become either crip- pled or sick. His cribs are substantial and well arranged buildings, in a line with the sta- bles, and covered with shingles. The stable lot commnnicatss with the gi'a i'or, in which stand two framed gia ho'jses in a fine, each thirty-two feet squaie, with a passage between them of 20 feet, all under one cover and wel? floored, the passage answering the purpose oi’ drying cotton- and small gram, or as a shelter in- rainy weather for any kind of employment in. such seasons. Atone of the gin houses, and in connection with it, is- a framed building, two- stories high, in which are placed the threshing, machine and fan, for cleaning of small grain. These are propelled by machinery, and princi- pally constructed by the mechanics of the own- er. In the same lot is a two story framed bain^ designed for grain, the upper story of which is' ceiled, and divided into bins of 30 bushels each, for the reception o-l grain. On each side of the barn is a framed and enclosed shed with shingle- roofs,, for fodder, oats, «Scc. Near the gin house and cotton room,, stands the screw, having a> framed building around it, and so constructed, that one entire side may. be removed, to admit repairs of the screw. In (he rear of the gin house lot is another, (about one acre, now in small grain,), in which has been erected a row ofsubsia.nLial. buildings, extending, about two-thirds of one entire side, in which is preserved provisions lor the cattle, and immediately in the rear of this line of buildings, and fronting the south, is a covered shelter for cattle in winter, wi-th which is eon-necled a win- ter lot, having trees and- water,, and also a large trough, made of poles or logs, to preserve the food from the feet ot the cattle. In this lot the cattle are penned at night, both in winter and summer, and a supply of litter constantly appli- ed around the trough for making manure. Much attention has been and is devoted to ma- king manure, and the arrangemeBts are well adapted to this purpose. We saw in the horse lot seven large and substantial made pens, filled with manure, and three more in the cow lot, con- taining in all at this time not less than Irom 400 to 500 wagon loads. The negro houses have been erected in a shade lot, in a parallel line with the stables and corn-cribs, about 30 yards in the rear, but at a convenient distance from them, and extending to the east, and presenting a front to the south. They are either framed or hewed log buildings, with framed roofs, having double brick or rock chimnies, plank floors, and stand from 30 to 50 yards apart. In front of these buildings is a shade lot, from 3 to 4 acres, enclosing the loom house and well, and in the rear, a garden and poultry house, for each family ol negroes. The house of the overseer is a framed building, with three rooms and brick chirnneyp; and with its appendages, occupy the crown of ihe hill, and commanding a view of the blacksmith anct work-shops, the negro houses, stable lot and houses, the gin house, lot and buildings, and the cow lot and its appuitenances. The dwel- THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 21 ling hnuse a t vu story building, finished in a plain but coinrortabls style, with shed and pi- azza, having six rooms and a passage, and stands in a luxuriant grove of oaks about 409 yards from the overseer’s house, with which it is connected by an avenue and lawn, containing from 10 to 15 acres. It has the usual appen- dages of a garden, kitchens, meat house, lowl house and dairy. We were also shown various arrangements for raising and taking care of stock through different stages of its growth. These consist of various lots of different sizes under good fence, and an abundant supply of water. The first is a wood enclosure of near 500 acres, partly high land, and partly swamp, and so arranged as to be easily divided by a set of bars. This is intended as a permanent en- closure for hogs, and occasionally for sheep and other stock. It has a direct communication with the stable lot, and cow lot, through agate, by means of the lawn above referred to, and hogs are fed within 300 yards of the overseer’s house, which commands a view also of this lot. Another was a lot of 75 acres, of which about one half is in woods and the other in small grain, intended for ewes and lambs and other young stock, and is connected with the lawn around the dwelling house by a gate. The third is a lot adjoining the dwelling house, con- taining about 15 acres, half in woods and the other in small grain, intended for calves and poultry. These are in addition to the lots above referred to, as connected with the stable lot, all of which constitute about 12 in number. There is also a shelter with stalls for the milch cows in winter, and a house for food and shelter for the calves. In short, there is a lot for all kinds of stock, adapted either to summer or winter use, with a shelter or cover for each kind, it is a rule of the establishment to put all food un- der cover, so that we found neither oats, fodder, straw nor shucks exposed to the weather, but all were stored away in substantial buildings. The overseer has an appropriate house or room for the tools, plows, harness and wagons, and no imple- ment or vehicle is allowed to remain from under cover. The various lots adjacent to the stable lot and dwelling, are surrounded by good fences, aeatly shrubbed trees trimmed, neat and sub- stantial gates, and all supplied with water and shade. The slock on the plantation is as fol- lows:— about 90 stock hogs, 15 sows, with near 400 pigs, about 90 head of horned cattle, inclu- ding three yoke of oxen, milch cows and calves — about 70 head of sheep, and trom 40 to 5,0 hogs for the slaughter pen, all in a good and thriving condition. Tbe horse power is 16 mules, and 7 horses, of wfiicb three or four are brood mares. The overseer reported that he manufactures clothing for the negroes, both winter and sumnrer, The supply of pork will be abundant for the wapts of the plantation, amounting to 7 Qr8,Q001b,s. That from the sale of wheat, rye, corn, peas, and other surplus pro- ducts of the plantation, he is enabled to pay the current annual etrpenses, except his wages, be- sides furnishing a'supply of ffour to his employ- er. In conclusion, we cheerfully hear lestinaony that for the arrangement of the plantation, for the reclaimed and highly improved condition of the land in cultivation, for the means provi- ded for its permanent improvement, for the sub- stantial and convenient character of the build- ings of every description, and for the general economy displayed in its governnient, there is jnanilested a skill, judgment and industry, of po ordinary character, and which vvas indispen- sable to the accomplishment of the present im- proved condition of the plantation. VVe ought pot, however, to omit some notice of the utensils and vehicles used on the plantation and of the present crop. These consist of the bull topgue plow, the common shovel, the half ox twisting shovel, the barsheare, of Northern construction, the sweep or scraper, and iron tooth harrows. Several of these are used m breaking up and pre- paring land for cultivation, and all except the barsheare, in thecultivation of the crop. There ate three wagons and two ox carts, with their usu- al app;iratus. The land seems to have been tho- rougiily broken up, and closely and skiiiully plowed and planted, plowed and laid by in the best mode to prevent washing. We were shown a field of 50 acres of corn, planted in the drill, which averaged over 25 bushels to the acre. The product was between 1300 and 1400 bu- shels. Another of 70 acres, which averaged about 20 bushels, or about the same product as the first. A field of 30 acres on an elevated ridge, yielded an indifferent crop, being cut off by an unusual drought. There remains from 30 to 35 acres of corn ungathered, which will yield between 400 and 500 bushels. The crop of cotton was greatly injured by drought and rust, and will only yield 130 bales of the ave- rage weight of 350 lbs. In a seasonable year, the same land, under the same cultivation, would have yielded 175 bales. In addition to the corn and cotton, there were made 250 bu- shels ot wheat, 50 bushels of rye, a small quan- tity of barley, and the average crop of oats, an aoundant supply for the plantation — 75 bushels of peas have been gathered and cleaned, and some 10 or 12 stacks of peas on the vine. The hogs are a cross from a Berkshire boar, and sow Df the common stock. The cattle are in an state of improvement from a cross, by a three year old Durham bull, a very superior animal, bred by Col. B. F. Taylor, of Columbia. The sheep are a cross of the Bakewell breed, from an ewe and ram, a present by Major Thomas Means ot Fairfield. In making this Report, our only object has been to give a full, fair and impartial account ol the state of the plantation, and if we have been tedious, the only apology we can offer is, that it was inseparable irorq a faithful discharge of the office comraUtpd to v^s. In certification of which, we have sign^ed our names, this 21st of November, 1^44" R. C. GrRiFPiN,former Tfeas.’r. W. 'And,rew3. A. P. King. Jas. F. Lowry. Thomas Payne. Jame^ Dorn. J. M. Walkep^, Solomon Dorn. Black Oak, Nov. 22, 1844. Ta /?. W. R<>per, — Dear Sir:— The short period which has elap- sed sipce the receipt of your letter, requesting inlorrpation on the subject of the Marl experi- ments in this neighborhood, must be ray apolo- gy for so unsatisfactory a reply as this must ne- cessarily be. Previous to the year 1843, there had been but one instance of the application of marl as a ma- nure to the soil, in this immediate neighborhood. Its existence was known in a few localities, where it had been thrown out from excavations through our swamps, but until the use of the auger for boring was introduced by Mr. Ruffin, its great extent and almost universal presence was not generally suspected. By his personal exertions and the use ot this simple instrument, a vast mine of agricultural wealth has been un- folded, which only requires the energy and in- dustry of the planter to be made available. According to the experience of Mr. Ruffin and the Virginia planters, too short a time has elapsed since its application to our lands, for us yet to realize its full effects. The first experi- ment in marling in this section of country, was made by Mr. F. A. Porcher, in 1840, on 17 acres of land, at the rate ot 1 00 bushels per acre. His statement is thus: Planted in cotton the first year, and did well. In 1841, rested; 1842, in cotton, with an additional manuring of 30 horse-cart loads of stable compost, a good crop —140 lbs. of ginned cotton ; 1843, in potatoes and slips, but did badly; 1844, in corn, making 24 bushels per acre. He stales a second experiment of 2 acres, marled the past year and planted in potatoes! Began to use them in August; that on the marl- ed land, the only good part of his crop. Mr. Philip M. Porcher states an experiment on 7 acres marled in 1843. Kept one acre un marled for Gomparison, and treated the remaining six with marl, at tne rates of 250 and 130 bushels per acre. The season of 1843 was peculiarly upfavorghle, and no good effects were observed trom the treatment. In 1844, (the present year,) he picked from an acre, on which 250 bushels ot marl had been applied, 430 lbs. ; from one on which 130 bushels had been applied, 380 lbs.; and from the acre left unmarled, 260 lbs. seed cotton. The same gentleman states another experiment on a field of 6 acres, marled in 1843, at the rate ot 120 bushels per acre, applied to- gether with stable manure and cotton seed. Planted in corn the first year, and made 20 bu- shels per acre. In 1844, added 100 bushels of marl per acre and other manures; the field made an average of 44 bushels of corn per acre. It should be stated that tfie land used in both of the above experiments, vvas old and exhausted trom hard treatment. From these, and many other experiments in this neighborhood, it would appear that on old lands, but little effect is seen the first year after marling. It is to be regretted that in two instances, where the most marked beneficial effecis were seen from the application of marl, no accurate account of the result has been kept. Mr. S. G. Darant the last winter, applied marl at the rate of 100 bushels per acre, to 15 acres of newly cleared pine land. A small spot of 30 or 40 feet square was left unmarled. No ac- count o( the relative production has been taken, but the unmarled spot has scarcely made any cotton, whilst a fair crop has been gathered from the other; the increase of production is rated at 4 or 5 fold, or more. The other instapce alluded to above, is an ex- periment by Mr. -R. Mazyck, with green sand fiiarl, on a fevy acres of cotton land. The crop i^as pot yet been entirely harvested, but by comparison vvith the adjoining parts of the field unmarled, the increase must have been double at least. At the meeting of the Black Oak Agricultu- ral Society held last spring, it was ascertained that about 1200 acres of land, within the geo- graphical limits of the Society, had been marled during the past year up to that period. There is no doubt that fully the same amount of marl- ing will have been accomplished again by our next meeting in the spring. I am, very respectfully, &c., H. W. Ravenel, AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS OF THE UNITED STATES FOR 1843. Wheat, 100,310,856 bushels Barley, ..3.^20,721 “ Oats, 145.929,966 “ Rye 24,280,271 Buckwheat 7,959,410 Indian Corn, 494,618,306 Potatoes, 105,756,133 “ Hay,., 15,419,807 tons. Flax and Hemp, 161,007 “ Tobacco, 185,731,554 pounds. Cotton, 747,660,090 “ Rice, 89,879,145 “ Silk Cocoons, 315,965 “ Sugar, 126,400,310 “ Wine, 139,240 gallons. The supposed value of the above, $607,185,413. The articles of wheat, barley, buckwheat, pota- toes, tobacco, rice, and sugar, amounted to less in 1843 than in 1842; though the aggregate va- lue of all the above named articles in 1843, was $24,545,445 greater than in 1842. The popula- tion of the United Slates in 1843 was 19,183,- 583. — Naliona.l Intelligencer. Simple Cure for Croup. — We find in the Journal of Health the following simple remedy for this dangerous disease. Those who have passed nights of almost agony at the bedside of loved children will treasure it up as an invalu- able piece of information. If a child is taken with croup, instantly apply cold water, ice wa- ter if possible, suddenly and freely to the neck and chest, with a sponge. The breathing will almost instantly be relieved. So soon as possi- ble, let the sufferer drink as much as it can; then wipe it dry, cover it up warm, and soon a quiet slumber will relieve the parent’s anxiety,, and lead the heart in thankfulness to the Power which has given to the pure gushing fountaiR, such medicinal qualities. 22 TH E SOLTHERN CULTIVATOR. THE MARL FORMATION. As Geology is intimately concerned in point- ing out to Agriculture the kinds of rock uselul as manures, we have thought it advisable to re- publish in our paper an extract from a report read before the Geological Society of London, by the eminent Geologist, Mr. Lyell. tl e visit- ed our State in 1841, and on his return to Eu- rope, read before the Society, a paper, “On the Tertiary Formations and their connection with the chalk in Virginia, and other parts of the United States.” We have selected from this paper what relates to South Carolina and Geor- gia. We would recommend to our Farmers engaged in marling, to preserve all bones and shells for scientific examination, as they are in- teresting to those gentlemen who are making collections for their cabinets. — Carolina Plan- ter. “ ON THE TERTIARY FORMATION OF SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA.” BY CHARLES LYELL, V.-PT. G. S. L. Charleston stands on a yellow sand, beneath which is a blue clay, containing the remains of Testacea that inhabit the adjacent seas; and Dr. Ravenel informed Mr. Lyell that he had found in it the Gnathodon cyrenoides, nor now known to occur in a living state nearer than the Gull of Mexico. The author could not ascertain whether the post-pliocene formation rises above high-water mark ; but he states that, on the Cooper river, thirty miles north of Charleston, there occurs beneath the superficial sand and mottled clay a fresh water formation, in which Dr. Ravenel has found the remains of the Cy- press, Hickory and Cedar, which must have grown in a fresh water swamp, although the formation is now six feet below the level of high water. No shells have been noticed in the deposit, but they are also commonly wanting in the marsh accumulations of that region. As the salt water of Cooper river must now cover much of this deposit, a very modern subsidence, Mr. Lyell says, must have taken place along the coast. At Dr. Ravenel’s plantation in the low country, near the mouth of Cooper river, is a pulverulent limestone, artificially exposed, which Mr. Lyell thinks may bean eocene form- ation, though its fossils differ from those of other deposits of that epoch. Between this point and Vance’s Ferry, on the Santee river, is a continuous formation of white limestone, which Mr. Lyell examined with Dr. Ravenel at Strawberry Ferry, Mulberry Land- ing, the banks of the Santee canal, Wantout and Eutaw. It varies in hardness, and consists of comminuted shells; but it very rarely exhi- bits any laminae of deposition, and even where it attains a thickness of twenty or thirty feet, there would be a difficulty in determining whe- ther it w'ere horizontal, if a bed of oysters, like that at Vance’s Ferry, did not occasionally oc- cur. At the Rock bridge near Eutgw springs, the limestone composed of comminuted shells, corals, the spines of Echini, &c., resembles so precisely the upper cretaceous formations at Timber Creek in New Jersey, that Mr. Lyell at first felt no doubt of the Idepiity of the two form- ations, although the organic contents of the limestone prove that it belongs to the tertiary se- ries. This resemblance has led to the admis- sion into Dr. Morton’s excellent work on the fossils of the cretaceous group, of the Balanus peregrinus, Pectencalvatns, P. membranosns, Te- rehrodula lachryma, Conusgyratus^ Scutella Ly- eeli, and Echinus infulatus*, though they do not really belong to the chalk series; and to seve- ral other similar mistakes, whereby, Mr. Lyell observes, beds of passage have been erroneously supposed to exist. Among the most widely distributed of the limestone fossils is the Ostrea seUceforniis s and he searched in vain at various points throughout a distance of forty miles for an admixture of characteristic cretaceous and tertiary organic remains, though the chalkform- ation, containing Belemnites and Exogyrse, oc- curs between Vance’s Ferry and Camden. The ^ See pi. 10 of Morton’s Synopsis. Santee limestone, he is of opinion, cannot be less than 120 feet thick at-Strawberry Ferry, be- ing vertically exposed to the extent of seventy feet in the banks and bottom of Cooper river, and to the height of fifty feet in the neighboring hills. Its upper surface is very irregular, and is usually covered with sand in which no shells have been found. Mr. Lyell followed the lime- stone north-westwardly for twelve miles by Cave Hall and Struble’s Mill to near Half-way Swamp. At Stoudenmire or Stout Creek, a tributary of the Santee, it has disappeared be- neath a newer tertiary deposit of considerable thickness, consisting of slaty clays and quarlzose sand. No fossils were observed by him in the deposit at Aiken. A similar formation is de- veloped at Augusta, where the Savannah divides the States of South Carolina and Georgia, and it must, in some places, be more than 200 feet thick. Three miles above the town are the ra- pids, which descend over highly inclined clay- slate and chlorite chist, overlaid unconformably by tertiary beds. This point is the western boundary of the supracretaceous series; and Mr. Lyell observes, that on all the great rivers of the Atlantic border from Maryland to Geor- gia, and still further south, the first falls or ra- pids are along a line at which the granitic and hypogene rocks meet the tertiary, and which is nearly parallel to the Atlantic coast, but at the distance oflOO or 150 geographical miles. This great feature, Mr. Lyell states, was first pointed out by Maclure, but he adds that portionsof the tertiary formation usually cover the hypogene rocks for a certain distance above the Falls, and that their outline is very irregular and sinu- ous. On Race’s Creek near Augusta, the high- ly inclined clay-slate, containing chloritic quartzose beds with subordinate strata much charged with iron, are decomposed to the depth of many yards into clays and sands which re- senible so precisely a large portion of the hori- zontal tertiary strata of the neighboring coun- try, that disintegrated materials might be mis- taken for them, if the veins of quartz which of- ten traverse the argillaceous beds at a conside- rable angle, did not continue unaltered. The only point at which Mr. Lyell saw any organic remains in beds associated with these upper ter- tiary red strata was at Richmond in Virginia, where he obtained casts of decidedly miocene fossils; but as he observed on the Savannah river thick beds of sandy red earth beneath the burr-stone of Stony Blufl', he concludes that the same mineral character may sometimes belong to the upper division of the eocene group. At the rocks six miles west of Augusta, the tertiary beds derived from the hypogene rocks have the appearance of granite, and have been called gneiss by some geologists. They exhibit occa sionally a distinct cross-stratiheation, and in- clude angular masses of pure kaolin. Though the Savannah in its course from Au- gusta to the sea, flows lor the greater part in a wide alluvial plain, and has a fall of less than one foot in a mile, yet Mr. Lyell descended it to obtain information, by means of the Bluffs, respecting the superposition of the several mas- ses, natural sections being otherwise difficult to obta in. After passing cliffs of horizonta 1 strata in which the brick-red sand and loam prevail, the first exposure of a new deposit was observed at Bhell Bluff, foi ty miles helow Augusta. 1 he height of the section was 120 feet, and its extent more than half a mile. The lowest exposed strata consisted of white, highly calcareous sand, derived chiefly from comminuted shells, but the beds passed upwards into a solid limestone, sometimes concretionary, and containing nu- merous casts of shells. In one place a layer of pale green clay showed the horizontal character of the formation. The upper part of this depo- sit is more sandy and clayey, and incloses a bed of huge oysters, Osirea Georgiana, occupying evidently the position in which they lived. The total thickness of these lower strata is eighty feet. The upper portion of the cliff is composed of forty feet of the red loam which prevails at Aiken and Augusta, and yellow sand. Mr. Lyell did not find any fossils in this deposit, but he believes that it belongs to the burr-stone formation, and therefore to be an upper eocene accumulation. At his first inspection of the casts contained in the limestone, he inferred that they belonged to eocene species, without any in- termixture of cretaceous or miocene terms; but it was not till he had the advantage of Mr. Con- rad’s assistance that he was able to determine the following twelve species which are well known to be characteristic fossils of the eocene beds of Claiborne and Alabama : — Oliva Alabamiensis. Calyptraea trochiformis. Dentalium alternans. Venericardia planicosta Cytherea Poulsoni. perovata. Corbula nasuta. oniscus. Nuculamagnifica. Crassatella praetexta. Ostrea sellseformis. Alabamiensis The same shelly, white, ealcareous beds, overlaid by red clay and loam, are exhibited at London Bluff, nine miles below Shell Bluff, and a horizontal bed of the large ojistersis exposed in a cliff two miles farther down the river. At Stony Bluff, on the borders of Scriven county, the calcareous deposit is no longer visible, the clifl being composed of silicious beds of the burr-stone and mill-stone series, resting upon brick-red and vermilion-colored loam. This section, Mr. Lyell states, is of great importance, as it concurs in proving that the mill-stone of this region, with its eocene fossils, is an integral part of the great red loam and sand formation usually devoid of organic remains. The burr- rock of Stony Bluff" abounds with cavities and geodes partially filled with crystals of quartz and agates. In the fragments scattered over the adjacent fields, Mr. Lyell observed casts of uni- valves. At Millhave'n, eight miles from Stony BluflT and five from the Savannah river, these si- licious beds again crop out and afford casts of the genera Pecten, Eulima or Bonellia, and a Ci- daris. It had been pierced through to the depth of twenty-six feet, and was associated with red loam, white sand and kaolin, affording further evidence of these deposits belonging to one formation. One mile west of Jacksonborough, in the ford of Bria.'' and Beaver Dam Creeks, is a lime- stone passing upwards into w'hite marl which appears to have been deeply denudated, and is overlaid by sand that belongs to a formation of sand, loam, and ferruginous sand rock, referred by Mr. L) ell to the red loam and burr-stone se- ries. The limestone and marl, although rarely exposed in sections, are considered to constitute very generally the fundamental strata of the re- gion on account of the not unfrequent occurrence of lime-sinks or circular depressions, formed in the beds of loam and sand by subterranean drain- age. The fossils procured from the limestone of Jacksonborough by Mr. Lyell, as well as those presented to him by Col. Jones, of Mill- haven, were for the greater part well-defined casts, and were specifically new to American paleontologists; nevertheless he has no hesita- tion, from their general aspect, to regard them as belonging to the eocene period. The genera enumerated in the paper are. Conus, Uliva, Bulla, Voluta, Bucciniim, Fnsus, Cerithium, Trochus, Calypt.aea, Dentalium, Crassatella, Chama, Cardium, Cytherea, Liihodomus, Lu- cina, pecten, and Ostrea. The Troehus is con- sidered identical with the T. oglutinans which occurs in the Paris b?sin ; and the Lithodomus to be undistinguishable from the L. dactylus of the West Indies, one of the lew eocene Parisian fossils identified by Deshayes. All the Bluffs examined by Mr. Lyell on the Savannah river below Briar Creek belong to the beds above the limestone, and are referable chiefly, if not entirely, to the burr-stone forma- tion. ’ In white clays exposed a fe w hundred yards below Tiger Leap in Hudson’s Reach, the author found impressions of Mactra, Pecten and Cardita, also fragments of fishes’ tee'h, particu- larly of the genus Myliobates, likewise several teeth of the genus Lamna, and one belonging to a Noiidamus or a nearly allied genus. At Sis- ter’s Ferry he observed not only the brick-red loam, with the red and gray clay and sand, buf THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 23 a highly silicious clay, which though sole when moist, exhibits a conchoidal Iracture when dry, and resembles flint ; in some spots the clay atso passes into a kind of menlite. In conclusion, Mr. Lyell offers the following general observations : The part ot South Caro- lina and Georgia which lies between the moun- tains and the Atlantic, and of which he exami- ned a portion near the Santee and Savannah rivers, has a foundation of cretaceous rocks con- taining Belemnites, Exogyrae, &c., overlaid first by the eocene limestone and marls, and secondly by the burr-stone formation with the associated red loam, mottled clay, and yellow sand. Ac- cording to Mr. Vanuxem’s observations, a ter- tiary lignite deposit sometimes intervenes be- tween the cretaceous and eocene series. The remarkable difference in the tossils of the eocene strata at different points, as the Grove on Coo- per river, the Santee canal, Vance’s Ferry, Shell Bluff, Jacksonborough, and Wilmington, might lead, Mr. Lyell states, to the suspicion of a considerable succession of minor divisions of the eocene period. That the whole are not pre- cisely of the same age he is willing to believe,but he is inclined to ascribe the difference princi- pally to two causes ; 1st, that the number pro- cured at each place is small and therefore repre- sents only a fractional portion of the entire fau- na of the period, so that variations in each lo- cality may have arisen from original geogra- phical circumstances; and 2ndly, no great eocene collection has been made from any part of the United States, Some of the burr-stone fossils occur in the limestone, and Mr. Lyell thinks the former may bear to the latter a relation analogous to that which the upper marine sands of the Paris ba- sin bear to the calcaire grosser. With respect to the conclusion stated in the beginning ot the paper, that he had been unable to find any beds containing an intermixture of cretaceous and tertiary fossils, Mr. Lyell says, it would require far more extended investiga- tions to enable a geologist to declare whether there exist in the Southern States any beds of passage, but he affirms that the facts at present ascertained will not bear out such a conclu- sion. The generic affinity of the cretaceous fossils of the United States to those of Europe, is stated to be most striking, and Mr. Lyell observed in Mr. Conrad’s collection from Alabama a large Hippurite, a point of analogy not previously recorded. The proportion of recent shells in the eocene strata of the United States appears to be as mi- nute as in Europe, and the distinctness of the eocene and miocene testaceo hitherto observed to be as great. Mr. Lyell says, it is also worthy of re mark, that the recent shells found in the American miocene beds are not only in the same proportion to the extinct as those of the Suffolk crag, or the Faluns of Touraine, but that they also agree specifically in mo&t cases with mo- lusca inhabiting the neighboring sea; in the same manner as the recent miocene species of Touraine agree for the greater part with species now living on the Western coast of Prance or in the Mediterranean, and as the recent testaeea oj the crag are identifiable with species belonging to the British seas. This result appears to Mr. Lyell to confirm the accuracy of conchological determinations ; for if, on the contrary, it should be maintained, that the number of recent species is so enormous, and different species resemble each other so closely as to have produced iden- tifications from the mere difficulty of effecting discriminations, he would suggest that in that case, according to a fair calculation of chances, nine-tenths of the American miocene species hitherto identified ought to have been assimila- ted to exotic shells, instead of havingbeen found to agree with some portions of the limited fauna at present known on the American shores. The same argument, he adds, is clearly applicable to the identifications which have been made of fos- sil and recent shells in the European tertiary formations. — Philadelphia, Magazine. The great step to greatness is to be honest. KEEPING UATTLE WARM. If we look abroad at the habits or necessities of people, we find that as we advance from south to north, the consumption of animal food in- creases. In hot climates, under the tropics lor instance, the diet is almost exclusively a vege- table one. Under a latitude of forty or fifty de- grees, we require considerable animal food— if we advance to the frozen regions of the north, whale oil and bears’ fat, are found among ffie luxuries of the board. These gross materials, almost to the exclusion of vegetables, are there found indispensable to keep up the necessary supply of nutrition and warmth. It has been long known both to chemists and observing men, that a cold atmosphere requires an extra quan- tity of food to sustain life and health; and this observation is just as applicable to the cattle and horses whose home is at our barns, as it is to our own species. If they are kept warm — housed fiom the storm, and shielded from un- necessary exposure, they will need less food than if left unprotected through the winter in the open yard. In point of economy, then, as well as from kindliness of feeling, it is our interest to look to the comfort of our stock. The winter profit to be realized from milch eows,is unques- tionably much affected by their treatment in this respect, and every one who would make the most of his cattle in this latitude, must carefully attend to their comfort. I copy the following remarks from the fourth part of Johnston’s Agri- cultural lectures, as particularly in point. There is much practical matter in them, that may be made available by every intelligent farmer. The extracts now forwarded for the Cabinet, will, I think, confirm this assertion.— F’ar. Cab. n. s. “The degree of warmth in which the animal is kept, or the temperature of the atmosphere, in which it lives, affects the quantity of food which the animal requii es to eat. The heat of the ani- mal is inseparably connected with its respira- tion. The more frequently it breathes, the warmer it becomes, and the more carbon it throws off from its lungs. It is believed, indeed, by many, that the main purpose of respiration is to keep up the heat of the body, and that this heat is produced very much in the same way as in a common fire, by a slow combusiion of that carbon which escapes in the shape of car- bonic acid from the lungs. Place a man in a cold situation, and he will either starve or he will find some means of warming himself. He will probably take exercise, and by this means cause himself to. breathe quicker. But to do this for a length of time, he must be supplied with more food. For not only does fie give off more carbon from hia lungs, hut the exercise he takes causes a greater natural waste also of the substance of his body. “So it is with all animals. The greater the difference between the temperature of the body and that of the atmosphere in which they live, the more food they require to ‘feed the lamp of life,’ — to keep them warm, that is, and to sup- ply the natural waste. Hence the importance ot plantations as a shelter from cold winds, to grazing stock — of open sheds, to protect fatten- ing stock from the nightly dews and colds— and even of closer covering to quiet and gentle breeds of cattle or »heep, which feed without restlessness, and quickly fatten. “ A proper attention to the warmth of his cat- tle or sheep, therelore, is of great practical con- sequence to the feeder of stock. By keeping them warm, he diminishes the quantity of food which is nece.ssary to sustain them, and leaves a larger portion for production of beef or mutton. “Various experiments have been lately pub- lished which confirm the opinions above dedu- ced from theoretical considerations. Of these I shall only mention one by Mr. Childers, in which twenty sheep were folded in the open field, and twenty ot nearly equal weight, were placed under a shed in a yard'. Both lots were fed for three months— January, February, and March— upon turnips, as many as they chose fft eat, half a pound of linseed cake, and half a pint of barley each sheep, per day, wjth a little hay and salt. The sheep in the field consumed the same quantity of food, all the barley and oil cake, and about 19 lbs. ot turnips per day, from the first to last, and increased on the whole 36 stone 8 lbs. Those under the shed consumed at first as much food as the others, but alter the third week they eat 2 lbs. ot turnips each less in the day, and in the ninth week, again 2 lbs. less, or only 15 lbs. a day. Of the linseed cake, they also eat about one-third less than the other lot, and yet they increased in weight Mstone 6 lbs., or 20 stone more than the others. “ Thus the cold and exercise in the field caused the one lot to convert more of their food into dung, and the other more of it into mutton, “The absence of light has also a material influlence upon the effects of food increasing the size of animals. Whatever excites attention in an animal, awakens, disturbs, or makes it rest- less, appears to increase the natural waste, and to dim inish the effect of food in rapidly enlarging the body. The rapidity with which fowls are fattened in the dark, is well known to rearers of poultry. In India, the habit prevails of sewing up the eyelids of the wild hog-deer, the spotted deer, and other wild animals, when netted in the jungles, with the view of taming and speedily fattening them. The absence of light indeed, however produced, seems to soothe and quiet all animals, to dispose them to rest, to make less food necessary, and to induce them to store up more of what they eat, in the form of fat and muscle. “ An experiment made by Mr. Morton, on the feeding of sheep shows the effect at once of shelter, of quiet, and of the absence of light upon the quantity of food eaten, and or mutton pro- duced from it. ^ . vi “Five sheep of nearly equal weights, were fed each with a pound of oats a day, and as much turnips as they chose to eat. One was fed in the open air, two in an open shed — one of them being confined in a crib — two more were fed in a close shed in the dark, and one of these also was confined in a erib, so as to lessen as much as possible the quantity of exercise it should take. The increase of live weight in each of the five, and the quantity of turnips they respectively consumed, appear in the following table; Live Weight. Nov. ISlMar 9 Increase Turneps eaten. Incr. loi each lUl lbs. lbs. lbs. lbs. lbs. lbs. Unsheltered ........... 108 131 7 23.7 1912 1.2 In open sheds... 102 129.8 27.8 1394 2.0 do. but confined in cribs 108 130.2 22.2 1238 1 8 In close shed in the dark 104 132.4 28.4 886 3.1 do. butconfined in cribs 111 131 3 20 3 SS6 2.4 “ From this table it appears, as we should have expected — “That much less— one-third less— turnips were eaten by the animal which was sheltered by the open shed, than by that which was with- out shelter, while in live weight it gained four pounds more. “That in the dark the quantity cf turneps eaten was one half less, and the increase of weight a little greater still. But that when con- fined in cribs— though the food eaten might be a little less — the increase in weight was not so great. The animal, in tact, was fretful, and restless in confinement, and whatever produces this effect upon an animal, prevents or retards its fattening. “That the most profitable return of mutton from the food consumed, is wbeq the animal is kept under shelter and in the dark. “Such a mode of keeping animals, however, must not be entered upon hastily, or without due consideration. The habits of the breed must be taken into account; the effect of con- finement upon their health must he frequently attended to, and above all the ready admission of fresh air and a good ventilation must not be forgotten. By a neglect of the proper precau- tions, unfortunate results have frequentlj!- been obtained, and a sound practice brought into dis- repute.’" 24 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR, ®:l)e 0outl)ern Cultioafor. AUGUSTA, GA. SATURDAY, UAKY 1 , 1845. To OUR Exchanges. — Those Agricultural Journals with which we exchange will confer a favor by addressing to us at Athens in future. FRIENDS AND PATRONS! The publishers beg leave to say a word to you, to induceyou to make an effort to increase the cir- culation of the " Southern Cultivator.” The work is devoted to the interests of the planter, and looks alone to them forsupport. Whatshall we, what can we say, to induce you to make an exer- tion in its behalf? Shall we tell yoUjthat notwith- standing we h&v.e incurred the expense of enga- ging the services of one of the ablest agricultural writers in the South as its editor,andthat although one month of the year has expired, we have not as yet received a sufficient amount from subscrip- tions to cover one-half the expense of setting the type? We might tell you this, and tell you the truth! Are you willing, Planters of the South, that our efforts in your behalf shall be thus re- warded? Ifyou are not, it is time that you be- stir yourselves; fur we assure you the work cannot be sustained, without an immense sacri- fice on our part, unless you exert yourselves to extend its circulation. We will not now say more— w'e could not in justice to you or our- selves have said less. The Publishers. Acknowledgements. — We are indebted to the editor of the Albany Cultivator for a copy of his Agricultural Almanac, for 1845; to R. Peters, j.r., Esij., of Augusta, for the 1st No. of Colman’s European Agriculture; to Judge hjillyer, for a copy of the letter of Richard Rush, Secretarjy of the Treasury of the United States, on the growth and manufacture of Silk ; and to the Hon. A. H. Stephens; fqr s specimen No. of the Ohio Cultivator. We are under particular obligations to those editors of the political press in the South, who have published our prospectus, and commended our enterprise to the public, in their editorial columns. Hemp. — Those w'ho think of trying to raise hemp, are referred to the article on another page, by Mr. Clay. It contains everything necessary to a lull understanding oflhe whole process: in- deedj it js a complete treatise in itself, strongly marked by the true characteristics of genius — clearness aud simplicity. It is, alone, worth ten whole jears’ subscription to the Cultivator. In our next number, we intend to republish the treatise on the culture and water-rotting of hemp, by David Myerle, addressed to the farm- ers of Missouri, the great hemp region of the west. With these sources ol intormalion, and their rich lands, if our friends in northwestern Geor- gia, don’t succeed in making money by hemp, they ought to be condemned never again to know what the jingle of silver is. Keeping Cattle Warm. — This number of the Cultivator contains an article on keeping cattle warm, to which the reader’s attention is especially directed With southern planters, neglect in this matter is by far too prevalent. Even in our mild climate it is idle waste of time and money to attempt any effectual improve- ment in our stock, until our negligent habits in this respecLshall have been corrected ; and sure, ly they will be corrected as-soon as it is under- stood how much our interest suffers Irom indul- gence in them. If proof is wanted how deeply the planter’s stock of winter provender is affect- ed by every cold rain during winter and spring, for the want of close, warm houses for his stock of every description, he has only to turn to the statements in the article referred to: and if he would understand fully the philosophy of the whole matter, he has only to attend carelully to what Liebig says on the general subject of ani- mal heat. It is, by the way; one of the most beautiful philosophical disquisitions in the wholeofhis Organic Chemistry. And though the reasoning employed has reference, chiefly., to the human body, yet, the whole animal creation obeying very nearly the same general laws, as regards nutrition and the sustenance of life, it may be regarded as true in reieience to the cat- tle-yard as well as to the parlor. “In different climates,” says Liebig, “the quantity of oxygen introduced into the system of respiration, as has been already shown, va- ries according to the temperature of the external air; the quantity ot inspired oxygen increases with the loss of heat by external cooling, and the quantity of carbon or hydrogen necessary to combine with this oxygen must be increased in the same ratio. “ It is evident that the supply of the heat lost by cooling is effected by the mutual action ol the elements oflhe food and the inspired oxy- gen, which combine together. To make use ot a familiar, but not on that account a less just il- lustration, the animal body acts, in this respeqt, as a furnace, which we supply with fuel. It signifies nothing what intermediate forms food may assume, what changes it may undergo in the body, the last change is uniformly the con- version of its carbon into carbonic acid, and ot Us hydrogen into water; the unassimilated ni- trogen ol lire food, along with the unburoed or unoxidised carbon, is expelled in the urine or in the solid excrements. In order to keep up in the furnace a constant temperature, we must vary the supply of fuel according to the external temperature, that is, according to the supply of oxygen, “ In the animal body the food is the fuel ; with a proper supply of oxygen we obtain tbe heat given out during its oxidation or combustion. In wintef, when we take exercise in a cold at- mosphere, and when consequently the amount of inspired oxygen increases, the necessity for food containing carbon and hydrogen increases m the sa.me yatfo; and py graiilying the appe- tite thus excited, we obtain the most eflicieut protection against the most piercing cold. A starving man is soon frozen to death; and every' one knows that the animals of prey in the arctic regions far exceed in voracity those of the torrid Zone. ***** “ Our clothing is merely an equivalent for a certain amount of food. The more warmly we are clothed, the less urgent becomes the appe- tite for food ; because the loss of heal by cooling, and consequentlv the amount ol heat to be sup- plied by the food, is diminished. “If we were to go naked like certain savage tribes, or if, in hunting or fishing, we were ex- posed to the same degree of cold as the Samoy- edes, we should be able, with ease, to consume ten pounds of flesh, and perhaps a dozen tallow candles into the bargain, daily, as warmly clad travellers have related with astonishment of these people. We should then also be able to take the same quantity of brandy or train oil with- out bad effects, because the carbon and hydrogen of these substances would only suffice to keep up the equilibrium between the external tempera- ture and that ol our bodies. “According to the preceding expositions, the quantity of food is regulated by the number of respirations, by the temperature of the air, and by the amount of heat given off to the surround- ing medium. ♦ ♦ * * “ The cooling ol the body, by whatever cause it may be produced, increases the amount of food necessary. The mere exposure to the open air, in a carriage or on the deck of a ship, by increasing radiation and vaporaiion, increa- ses tbe loss of heaj, and compels us to eat more than usual.” * * * * Lindley’s Outline. — We have commenced in this number the publication of a very impor- tant woik, viz: Prof. Lindley’s Outline of the Fiist Principles of Horticulture, Though, from its title, it would at firstappear to be not very intimately connected with the scope and design of this work, yet, when it is remembered that the term Horticulture properly means that branch of knowledge which relates to the culti- vation, ffiultiplicaiion and amelioration of the Vegetable Kingdom, its intimate conneclioB with the business ol the planter is at once mani- fest, The character of Prof. Lindley is- a sufficient guarantee of the accuracy of anything laid down by him as a first principle. We can,, therefore, confidently recommend to ourreaders* not merely an attentive perusal, but a carelul study of liis Outline, as it shall appear in ihe successive numbers of the Cultivator. “ It is, at once, remarkably simplp, and highly philo- sophical; free from supeifluous technicalities, and, at the same time, truly scientific. With- out entering into tedious subordinate details, it offers a lucid explanation of the general nature of vegetable actions, and ol the important prin- ciples which lie at tbe foundation of all the operations of Horticulture.” HA knowledge of these leading principles aj once invests with new and peculiar interest even ihe most mechanical, and apparently umeaning and irksome details ot art. With what increa- sed satisfaction are the common processes of manuring or transplanting carried on, to say nnTTT? C^OTT'rrrjT^TTiTvr r^yiT nr-'T'^r a mr>T> 02J Xi-i-J JL. irjLJL-iJi,l^^A' V> U JLi -i- JL V ^'TL i ^ .oO nothiag ot iho o’ore delicate uperatioiis oi bud- ding, graUing, propagating by layers, &c., vvnen we are acquainted with the structure ot the plants we are endeavoring to control, and com- prehend the why and the wheretoreot every step we pursue. With this knowledge of vital ac- tions, new inodes of culture, and various im- provements in the operations ot the art, are con- tinually suggested to the refieotive mind.; which derives additional pleasure trom the prosecution ot scientific experiments., of which tne ignorant laboi er, who turns over the soil and sows his seeds in precisely the same manner under all circumstances, never dreams.” — A- J. Domi- ing’s Preface, EuROPE.iN Farming. — To those who are ac- quainted only with the system of culture pursu- ed in the southern States, the enormous rents paid for land in Europe, and the prodigious amounts of produce obtained from it, must ap- pear altogether incredible. Yet, even at the risk ot being charged with exaggeration, we have thrown together a few statements, gathered from our exchange papers, on this subject, lor the purpose of showing what thorough cultiva- tion ot the soil will accomplish. In Great Britain and Ireland nearly all the lands that are cultivated, are let to tenants. I These tenants pay an annual rent of trom four to five pounds sterling: equal to twenty or twenty-five dollars per acre. Paying rent at I these rates, they have to pay, besides, enornaou-s taxes 'to both church and state, and find all the means, such as labor, manure, implements, &;C., that are necessary to carry on the business ol the farm profitably. In the year 1811, a certain farm in England •of890 acres, was estimated to produce $38,000. The manure that was applied that year was 13,746 one-horse cart loads. The rent was $12 per acre; the manure cost $12 per acre; and interest, taxes, expenses of cultivation, &e., amounted to $12 more per acre. And yet after all these disbursements, there was a nett profit of between 6 and 7 dollars per acre tokhe tenant. We notice this farther statement, that near London, a hay larm of 160 acres, was rented at $12 per acre. A very heavy expenditure was incurred for manure ; yet the tenant, even under these eircurastances, has become wealthy. In Ireland, a poor man rented a single acre of ground; built his cottage, and bought his tools and manure, at high rates. He bought his seed, paid a church tax, supported a family of four persons besides himself and his wife, and the first year cleared all expenses and had £8, or near forty dollars left,. These statements, to those acquainted only with southern cultivation, as we have said, ap- pear utterly incredible. Yet they come .to us in such a way as to command our belief. And these wonderful results are accounted lor, by those who relate them, on a single principle, viz; thorough cuLtivation. In this, they say, consists the whole mystery. The people of the United Slates are beginning to understand these things. We remember see- ing, some years ago., a .statement that 212 bu- shels ol corn had been gathered from an acre in the Stale of New York. And we have now be- fore us the R.eport of the Middlesex Co-unly Agricultural Society’s ComnaUtee on Field Crops, in which it is stated that even in Con- necticut o/re Aitahrerf ani fifty one bushels and eighteen quarts of corn to the acre have been produced on the farm ol Mr. Wadsworth. Who, knowing these results, and having the spirit and energy ot a man, would continue the system ol skinning ten acres to get what ought to be pro- duced by one? Pictures. — We a’'e f ully aware ot the addi- tional interest thrown around an agricultural paper, by introducing into h representations of finesloc-k: and we are resolved that, it possible, tlie Cultivator shall not be wanting in tnis at- tractive feature. But we must first be assured of the means of making such expensive addi- tions to it. The vhole enterprise is in the hands af'Southern planters. They can make or mar it. The extensive circulation of the Albany Cul- tivator, we have no doubt has been obtained, in part, by itsbeaLUilui pictures of beautiful stock. And with this circulation its influence has gone on increasing. ItsJanuary number contains a most exquisite engraving of a cow, which cost — not the cow — but the picture of the cow cost over two hundred dollars. Well, with its Iweniy- five thousand 2i\\, without a single exception, paying their snbseripllons in advanco promptly and punctually, it can wellafi^rdto pay for s-uch pictures. When southern planters display the like spi- rit with northern farmers in supporting a publi- cation devoted to the promotion ot their best in- terests, they will have a paper that will contain everything they can possibly desire, either as to reading matter or illustrations. The Agricultural Press. — Nearly ail our exchange papers, for the month of January, have come to hand greatly improved, in almost every respect, from what they were last year; and what is better, their editors, in most instan- ces, speak exullingly of the encouragement they have received, and of their prospects ibrthe fu- ture. This is all -just as it should be, and goes to show that the great mass of the people who are engaged in tilling the ground, are rapidly conquering their prejudices against book farm- ing, and are beginning to place the proper esti- mate on the labors of those who are engaged in furnishing them with correct information on the .subject of their everyday business. An editor, lately of the interior of New York, now of Ohio, was a welcome inmate in every farm house where he whs known -had free passage in eve- ry .stage in the Stale,, a.i!d free qiiartersin all the village hotels: and all this in addition to an ex- tensive subscription list, promptly paid in ad- vance. That was doing the thing cleverly; and appearances now are that since his remo- val .to Ohio, the people ofihat State are not going to b.e outdone in this sort of substantial courte- sy by their neighbors, the people of New York. Hence it is, that men having the capacity to serve the people, are willing to engage in their service., and when soengaged, and thus treated, cheerfully devote their w’hole energies to that service. How very different the .slate of things in this respect, now, and twenty-five years ago, when Mr. Skinner, the father of the Agricultural press in the United States, commenced ifie Ame- rican Farmer, wilhoiii a single subscrioer! His first number extended to only five hundred co- pies; and though it was first arranged to be da- ted on the first oj April^ yet it was altered to a dif- icrent dale, to avoid the ridicule oi tbe possible failure of a fool’s project, comiuenced on ail foot's day. Cotton. — Those planters who are thinking about increasing their crops, so as to make up for the leduction in price, would do v.'ell to con- sider carefuliy what they are going to do. Let them look at the facts disclosed by Prof. Mc- Cay’s statement, hereunto annexed, before they determine on a course so suicidal. We must remark, hovs'ever, that over-pro- duction is, by no means, the only cause ; and that it is very far indeed from being the most efficient cause of the present ruinously low price of our great staple. Outrageously unjust, unequal and oupressivn national legislation — such as no free people, having the means of re- sistance, ought to submit to for a single day, is at the bottom of most of the disasters the South is now suffering. The efiect is the same; and !l those who, with their feet on otirii- cks, and their hands in our pockets, are fleecing us on all sides, can persuade us that the cai/ssot our ruin lies, not with them, but with ourselves, their great end is answered. They are enrich- ed— we are humbugged, plundered and ruineil. THE COTTON TJl.ADE. Professor McCay, olthe University of Geor- gia, in a well considered article in the Mer- chant’s Magazine, thus sums up the probable production of Cotton for the past year, and its probable consumplioxi for .the year to come. Bales. t'nited States Crop ..2,4611,000 English Import frora Iivcia. 150,000 English Import from other places 140,000 Total supply .2,750,000 Bales. Wants ot the ‘United Stales. .370, OiK) “ France from the U. States. . . 420,000 the Continent from “ ... 180,000 “ England, 1,480, GOO 2,450,000 E.xcess of supply........... 300,000 Mr. McCay anticipates that this additional burthen will be felt very severely. We must confess that we thinheotoo. Since he wrote his article, cotton has lallen considerably, and is at this mom-ent according to quality, from ^ to |d. per pound lower than ever before known in England, and full to $ of a cent in o^ur own country. If our planters go on increasing their produc- tion, cotton will soon not be worth over 2 to 5 cents per lb., according to quality, on the plan- tation. At this price no man ean live by it. What is the remedy? Simply, raise less of this and more of other products. Here is one thing for example. We believe that a pound of fine Merino wool may be raised in that part of the south suitable for keeping sheep, as cheaply as three pounds ol cotton can be grown. The former would be worth 40 cents on the plantation at the lowest, the latter not to ex- ceed 12 cents, which makes a difference in fa- vor of wool-growing of more than 300 per ct. But we hear the planters say, well, when we get U) raising wool, the price of that must fall too. Suppose it does ? It will still be a pro- fitable business even at 20 cents per pound;* for sheep will enrich your lands and fit them for other good crops, while cotton impoverishes them. Yet so long as we import woo), (which wp still continue to do,) there is little prospect of its becoming lower; and when we have sup- plied ourselves, we can then look abroad for a market. Great Britain alone imports nearly, if not quite^ 50,0.00,000 lbs. annually, and France a considerable quaqtiiy. Here, then, is a chance of a market for a long time ; for we only raise now about three-fifths of what Great Bri- tain alone imports, and it would be years before we could reach the production of 50,000,000. In the meanwhile it must be recol;ected that our own cotisumption will be rapidly on the in- crease. Space forbids our pursuing this sub- ject any further in this No., but we intend to re- vert to the general subject of grovt ing wool in our next. — American Agriculturist, 26 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. For the Southern Cultivator. INDIGO. Mr. Editor; — As 1 am anxious to see a por- tion of the labor at the South diverted from the culture of cotton, and know no better way of doing it than by commencing it myself, I would be glad if you would furnish me with some ac- count of the culture and manufacture of Indigo — the probable quantity raised to the acre, and what soil is best adapted to it. Any informa- tion on this subject would be interesting, and at the same time obliging to Yours, &.c. Waynesboro', Dec. 21, 1844. Remarks. — We are glad to find that men’s minds are beginning to be turned to other agri- cultural products besides cotton. The condi- tion of things in the cotton-growing States im- periously demands it. Those who, like our correspondent, are thinking of Indigo, will, on referring to the many sources of information that are e.xtant on the subject, find its culture a very simple business Indeed. The profit is another matter, which has to be tried yet. We design hereafter giving in the Cultiva- tor the iDform;ation sought for. For the present, we can only refer inquirers to the following, viz;— Southern Cultivator, Vol. Ilf. page. — Farmers’ Register, (So. Ca.,) Vol. IV. “ 421 Do (Bengal,) 572 Do (Java,) “ “ 591 Do (forfamily use) Vol. II. 314 For the Southern Cultivator. FINE STOCK HOGS. Mr. Editor: — I am quite a small farmer, though I generally raise my own poik and corn. Last September, I was in company with seve- ral gentlemen, vT-ho were conversing on the sub- ject cf hogs. i observed that I would give a pig six months old, to any gentleman that would beat me in weight, on from twenty to thirty hogs, not to exceed two years old, raised on his own farm. Capl. Wm. G. Smith, of Jasper County, (though not present,) sent me word he would take the banter on twenty-five. His twenty-five weighed 7238 pounds, ave- rage 289^. My tw’enty-five weighed 7332 pounds, average 293j. Mine were the common stock, land pikes, it you please. Should there be any persons that are raising the same breeds, that have taken no more pains with them than farmers ordinarily do with their stock of hogs, I should like to hear from them. Respectfully, John Webb. P. S. I have a fine Berkshire Boar, of Col* John Bonner's stock, two years old 25th April next, for sale ; Price, S20. Webbs, Ga., Jan. 10, 1845. Hauling it back. — We are informed, says the Columbus (Ga.) Enquirer ol 22d inst., that James Dowdell, Esq., of Harris County, who has for some time past had his Cotton in the Warehouse of this city, during the past week sent his teams down and had it hauled home, preferring to hold it over, rather than sell it at the present beggarly prices. Although he may liolmaice anything by the operation, he is pretty certain not to lose. For the Southern Cultivator. OVERSEERS. Mr. Editor: — Much has been said recently in the columns of the Carolinian, in regard to the improvement and duty of overseers; but it seems to me some exciting cause must first ex- ist before men can be roused to great energetic action, leading to a permanent improvement in anything. Let us examine and see it any of these causes now exist on the part of overseer or employer. At the present time the country is filled with men looking for business as over- seers. Many have left their employers (not turned off) because they will not and cannot give the same wages in 1845 as they did the last year. Others have left their homes, where they have only been able to make a scanty sup- port, if that, to seek an overseer’s birth. Many, may 1 not say one-half, of this number, will not be able to fiind business : and the reason why, must be obviaus to every green seed cotton plan- ter at least, I venture nothing in saying that we have men enough, of good character too, who have for many years employed overseers, but would now most willingly themselves be- come one, provided such a price could be ob- tained for their services as has been common among larmers and overseers lor years past. But who among the green seed planters are able to give high wages to even men of character 1 Many who have employed overseers lor years past, will not do so in 1845, because the price asked forbids at once the farmer to give it. Where then will be found these necessary ex- citing causes on the part of overseer or employ- er to prompt them to improvement? Surely not the high price the one will be able to obtain for his services, or the other able to give. The fact is^ the overseer’s business is retrograding daily ; and that large retrenchmen'.s, as regards num- bers and wages, will be made among this class of men in 1845, I believe no one will undertake to deny. Now the question is, how are we to cure these evils so justly complained of? It would be vain to suppose for a moment that individual action alone could remove them ; while a united action on the part of farmers will fully ac- complish the object aimed at. And, for this purpose, I now call upon one and all of my brother farmers throughout the cotton growing States '0 join me in a remedy, to cure the evils spoken ot, as practicable as it is sure in the end ; and one which is ready at hand and fully alike in the power of all to participate. “A long pull, a strong pull, and a pull altog'^ther,” will consummate this great work ot reform as sure as there is day and night. And first, I propose we plant, in 1845, only one-half the number of acres in cotton that we did in 1844: from which, by a more careful tillage and concentrated manure, (best in hills,) we can make at least two-thirds as much as wc have made this year; reducing the present over- production down to one million, three hundred and fifty thousand bales; for which we shall be able to obtain at least from 9 to 10 cents per lb. : netting the farmer over one-fourth more money than the whole ot his present crop, supposing it 10 average him 5^ cents. This plan adopted, we shall be able to withdraw from our cotton field— notone-half of our hands, because our cot- ton, corn, and everything else, is to be cultiva- ted in a much better style than heretofore — but one-third, to be busily employed the whole year in clearing out old filled-up ditches ; repairing, in fact making new, fences, for the first lime, perhaps, in ten years, out of new rails; dispen- sing with the present plan of grape vine and rotten pole fences. And, in the mean time, ne- ver to lose sight, for a moment, ot our compost heaps, to which we can add daily with our with- drawn hands; reducing, at the same time, our stock of horses and mules ow-ihird, if no more, and, consequently, lessening ourexpenses in the implements of husbandry, and increasing the number ol our hogs, with the food these horses and mules would otherwise eat, for the use of our negroes, This done, in 1845, I farther propose to every cotton planter in the United States, that we plant in 1846, the other half of our cotton field, (not more,) which remained fallow in 1845; from which we shall, with great dhse, be able (from our augmented compost heaps, made with these withdrawn hands, concentrated in hills upon this rested land, with garden-like tillage) to pro- duce, at least a full three-fourth crop ; say some- thing over one and an half million bales, which will readily sell (as the Liverpool warehouses and all others now packed to bursting point with our over stock of cotton at 4 and 5 cents, will be emptied of their burthen) at from lOj to 12 cents: netting the farmer something more than 50 per cent over his full crop of 1844. Surely I may venture to say, by this time we sl.all be in somewhat a better humor and shall be able, and 1 doubt noi will feel more disposed, to hire and give our overseers such wages as will rouse them to at least a generous emulation in the arts of husbandry, during this period of two years at least, and I should say lor ever afterwards. Let every farmer raise his own hogs, horses, mule.s, sheep, stock ot every kind, and withal make his own negro cloth at home ; and all who live south of 34 degrees make their own sugar ; not forgetting to bind ourselves to use for the packing of our cotton our own domestic cotton bagging and rope. A patronage of this kind will at once enable the manufacturers of these articles to put them at the lowest possible price. And how shall we begin this work? Permit me, with all due deference, to suggest the plan of State Conventions, and then a General Con- vention of the cotton growing States, to meet at some central point, to adopt such measures as will carry this work into effect; or, 1 will unite in any other plan that may be suggested, which will lead to success. I ask again, will the pre- sent oppressed cotton planters unite with me to consummate this grand work of reform? If so, the work will be done, and much more accom- plished than has been conceived in the foregoing plan. But it you refuse me your Iriendly aid in this work, permit me, gentlemen, to lay be- fore you the price ot our cotton crop in the fall of 1845 and spring of 1846, if a full average one should be made the next year. Here it is under the different classifications: — Inferior, 2 to 2^ ; middling fair, 2^ to 3 ; fully fair, 3f to 3| ; choice, 4 to 4L of which class there will be but little. The writer of this will be ready at any moment to pledge himself to reduce his cotton field of 520 acres, planted this year, to 250 the next, provided like pledges are made on the part of every cotton plantei in the United States. But should there be a failure of this united pledge on their pirt, then he promises on his part still to be faithful, and not forsake his oppressed and suffering brethren uf the plow, but shall feel compelled to aid and assist them with all his might in reducing the price of cotton in the fall of 1845 and spring of 1846 to the prices herein set forth, by planting his usual number of 520 acres in cotton, if no more. Anri it may not be improper or irrelevant to slate that he has now ready for use upwards of 800 yards of negro cloth spun and wove from the wool of his own sheep, and will add that from 1827 to 1826 he made his own sugar — a sim- ple and easy process — and intends, if life last, to do so in future. Has raised his own horses, even mc're than were necessary for plantation use, for the last sixteen years:, also, an ample sup- ply of hogs for both white and black, and manu- factured, in part, his own negro shoes. I have much more to say upon this important subject, so flattering to the pride of my ambition, which will be done in due time in a subsequent communication. In the mean time, I can but hope the attention of the cotton planter will be turned and fixed upon this grand scheme ol re- form, and his best and most serious thoughts bestowed leading direct to its final consumma- tion. Agricola. A western editor, noticing a new mode of fat- tening hogs, says he has tried it himself, and finds it unexceptionable, THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 27 For the Southern Cultivator. PLANTERS’ CLUB OF HANCOCK, j REPORTS READ BEFORE THE CLUB, REPORT of the Tillage and- Product of one Acre of Land in Corn, by Richard S. Hardwick, in 1814. The acre selected was worn out red land, ha- ving a little more silex than is usual for red land in this county. It would not have produ- ced more than four bushels per acre without manure, with good culture and good season. The Bortimer manure was used for the experi- ment; and although it was a failure, and but lew would like to make a report, 1 am induced to do so, first, because it is my duty as a mem- ber ot your Club; and secondly, because there is as much, or more, to be learned from failures, as from successful experiments, by the thinking class of farmers. At any rate, it points out the rock on which the experimenters split, and ena- bles others to direct their experimental bark around it. The manure was oak leaves and pine straw, hauled from the woods, and weeds cut from the corners of the fence and branch sides, and put up the last of September, 1843, on the Bommer method, and remained in the kilns till March, 1844. There were 70 ox-cart loads used. The method of applying will presently be given. The first operation on the land, was about the first of February, with a colter plow, deep and close. The land was, however, rather dry for the work to be done as effectually as it should have been. About the middle of March, (he land w'as put in prime condition by a good rain. The manure (70 loads) was then spread, such portion as seemed to be necessary, reserving enough for future application and in a different way, hereafter described, and plowed in with a turning plow, furrow followed by a colter in the bottom. This done, the land was laid off in rows, at the distance of 7 feet, which furrows were re-opened with a double turner, in order to open them deep and well. In this furrow, a part of the manure was put, say filled half full; the rows were then bedded out complete. A fur- row was then run on each side ot the centre of this bed, at the distance of 12 inches from the centre, which placed thetwo rows two feet apart. A hand full of the remaining manure was then placed in those furrows at the distance of 24 inches, taking care, however, not to have the hills opposite, but by measurement to have the hills in the rows precisely half way between the hills in the other row, which made the hills pre- sent the diamond form. On this manure I put my corn, and covered it with a hoe. The plant- ing was the 20th March. The first operation was about the gOth April, by siding the corn with a colter, plowing out the wide row's with the scooter; for you w'i.l per- ceive from the method of planting that every other row was 5 feet wide — the other, or narrow rows, 2 feet wide. Corn fiat w'ed and thinned to one stalk. About the middle of May, the wide rows were plowed with a turning plow, deep and well ; and betw'een the narrow rows, chopped w'ith a hoe. Early in June, the wide rows were plowed very lightly w'ith a sweeper; the narrow rows chopped, and flat hills put to the corn, which finished the cultivation. The season was good and the yield only 14 bushels. The land was measured by T. H. Audas, and the corn measured by G. W, Hardwick. A very important question now arises, w’hat was the cause of the failure'? Is the Bommer manure worthless? Or is the defect in the me- thod of planting or culture ? lam of opinion, that the failure is chargeable to neither of those causes; and as the cause of failure is the most important part of my report, I must ask the in- dulgence ot the Club in a few speculations on the cause of failure. It is well known to every practical farmer, that a piece of exhausted land, with any kind of manure, however good, and judiciously applied, cannot be made productive the first year of its application as well as it will after the manure anci earth have become assimi- lated together; or, in other words, as when the earth has fully taken up the salts of the manure ; therefore this may be set down as one of the causes of the failure. This opinion is strengthened from the fact, that, the manure had not undergone decomposi- tion enough to let out the salts for some time after its application. It was in what would be called the long siate, but having a strong smell ot ammonia, having been well saturated with the lees, wfilch is w'ell calculated to bring about decomposition, therefore it possessed all the elements of manure, but was not able to let them loose in time for the crop, the land of itself having but little of the elements necessary for the food of plants. The plot, of course, failed, before the necessary quantity or quality of the proper nutriment was afforded by the manure which had been applied. I am sustained in this opinion from this fact ; in the summer of 1843, I made my first experiment in making the Bommer manure. In August of that year, when I sowed my turneps, I directed the manure spoken of to be applied to a part of my lurnep land; it was hauled and thrown over in the corner of the fence in the long stage, about as that applied to my corn, but by the neglect of my overseer, was not applied. It remained there until spring In planting the turnep land in corn, and manuring in the hill with stable ma- nure, I discovered my Bommer manure, hauled there the previous summer, in a fine decomposd state. I (iirected it to be applied in the hills, in the same quantity and manner that the stable manure was applied, and stakes drove down at the beginning and finishing row. I noticed those rows attentively through the crop season, and they perceptibly had the advantage of the rows on each side. Again, this acre of land was sown in wheat early in October, after ha- ving a slight sprinkling of manure from the cow-pen. The wheat now (6th December, 1844) is much larger (so much so that the dif- ference is percieptible half a mile) than wheat sown the same day on land that produced me this year 40 bushels of corn per acre, with as much manure applied to it as was to the Bom- mer acre. These facts seem conclusive that ray position is correct. But another reason. It is a general opinion that fibrous rooted and slick leaved plants, are finer feeders than the tap or bulbou-s rooted wdth porous leaves; therefore the food that will have been used by the other plants, was rejected by the corn. Again, the quantity of manure used in the long stage, as this w'as, 1 have no doubt was in the way of the young and tender roots, running out in search of food, as well as the scarcity or improper quality of food; lor, on examination, when the corn was at maturity, I found that the roots had not run out iuio the rows, but were confined to the hill entirely. Now, if the body of the land had been rich, or in other words, had it aboundfd with the necessary food for the plant, they would have passed each other in the rows of five feet. There being no inducement, or rather notliing to draw them out, they had to content themselves in a small space and dwin- dle out a miserable existence in poverty and want. But another reason, which has been given to me by a friend, whose good sense and opinions I have great confidence in, but differ from him, at least in part, of the view he takes. He contends, in opposition to the opinion en- tertained by myself, that the salts of the manure are let loose, notwithstanding the manure was in the long stage and not sufficiently decompo- sed; that the manure being fully saturati^d with the lees wdiich is the very essence ot the manure, there being a natural affinity between that and the earth, that is, it was let out to the earth through the same pores that it w’as taken up, but the food was too strong for the plant in its infancy, therefore an unhealthy disposition was created, from which the plant never recovered. In support of this opinion there is one fact worthy of notice, and it is, t.hat the corn present- ed a yellow appearance from the time it came up until it began to tassel, when it improved in its color a little, but at no period did it present a healthy appearance. On one corner of this lot the land had been some little benefitted the year previous, by feeding some sows and pigs at that place. It was, however, but a very small place. At that place, the corn was never yellow; it presented a green healthy appearance through the whole season, and if the whole acre had done as well as that small spot, I should have made some 60 bushels, for on that corner I made pretty much all that I did make; therefore the difference to be settled between us, is, whether it was more from the want of food than from the strength or improper quality of it. His reasoning, however,is not w ithout some weight; for the rea- son of the corn thriving well in the corner above referred to, may be, that it had other and more suitable food; therefore it rejected that which wouffi have proved prejudicial to it, while the other having no other resource, was compelled to accept such as it could get. I have now, gentlemen, given you my rea- sons at length for my failure, and if I was sure they were correct, it would very much relieve the mortification .vhich 1 feel at a book farmer’s making so signal a failure. Sparto,, Dec. 26, 1844. R, S. Hardwick. REPORT of the Tillage and Product of one Acre of Land in Corn, by Ben/. T. Harris, in 1844. The land very much exhausted by continued cultivation for more than forty years. The soil chocolate. Previous crop, oats. Would con- sider two and a half barrels a good crop under the old system. Yield, 49 bushels and a i peck. Gathered and accurately measured on 28th Au- gust. Preparation. — On 8th March, scootered the land deep and close, with a colter following in each furrow. On 2lst March, spread 35 loads ot lot manure, broadcast, and scootered again. On 22d, harrowed over the ground and laid off rows 4 feet 10 inches apart; strewed cotton seed (germ destroyed) in this furrow thickly, and listed on it with scooter plow, then dropped a handful of ordinary size 18 to 20 inches asunder in the planting furrow, and a small handful of leached ashes on each deposite of seed. Drop- ped the corn between those deposites, from 3 to 5 grains, and covered with a scooter plow. Middles plowed out with same plow, and cotton seed strewed in all the furrows except the last. Corn came up welL Some few hills destroyed by the bug. Cultivation. — On 15th April harrowed it over with a fine-tooth harrowed, running 5 times in the row, the object of which, was to break the crust formed on the surface, which was so thick as to exclude the atmosphere. On 23d April ran the colter around the corn and plowed the middle- with a scooter. On 24th, hoed and thinned to one stalk, where the stand was regu- lar, and to two where it was irregular. On 10th May, run the sweep six times in the row. On 24lh, sided w'ith shovel plow, and run 4 turning plow furrows, finishing middles with shovel plow. June 5, laid the corn by, with sweepers. June 15, laid by with hoes, puaing but little dirt to the corn. Remainder of ashes spread broadcast at the time of planting; quantity used, 3 cart loads, drawn by one yoke of oxen; the same quantity of cotton seed— making in all 41 loads of manure. Recapitulation of Work. — Flowings, 2; sweep- ings, 2; harrowing, 1 ; hoeings, 2. B. F. H.^RRie. REPORT of the Tillage and Product of one .Acre of Land in Corn, by Mrs. Martha .Anne Lewis, iu 1844. The soil is grey, post oak land, in a fine state of cultivation, having been kept as a bar- ley lot, earl}' corn, (&c. Would have produced, with ordinary culture andgood season, without manure, 5 or 6 barrels of corn per acre. Sixty- four loads of manure used; 10 of which was from the stable, 3 of cotton seed, and the ba- lance from the hog pen, and applied as herein- after stated. The land was broke with a scoo- ter plow, from 15th to 20th January, 1844; then manured broadcast with the largest part of the manure, reserving enough for a subsequent ap- rvfO SOUTIIE’^N CULTP^AT^^R plicaiioij- Tiir .naiiUic tlius spread wasturned in with a lurning plovr about the niiddie of Fe- bruary. The 3 loads oJ cotton seed were spread and turned in, on 20th March, and re-turned on 22d with same plow; then laid off 4 feet 10 inches — iurrows well opened, and planted 2 leet apart, 2 grains in a hill, a handful of manure put in the furrow on each side of the corn, and all covered by running a scooter furrow on each side, making a ridge over the corn. When- the corn should have been comingtup, the top of the ridge was scraped off wdth a board. Culture- — The first operation was w'eeding with a hoe ; then sided with a scooter plow, finishing the m.iddles with a turning plow; then Aved again; then plowed with a sweeper;, then a fiat hill on one side ot each hill of corn, and in about two weeks therealter th.e other side hilled in the same way, which completed the cultiva- tion. The dates of the several workings are not recollected ; but it is proper to state that the va- rious workings succeeded each other about two weeks. The season was good, and the pro- duct 96, bushels gallons of corn, and 1561 lbs. of fodder. The land and' corn and fodder all accurately measured and weighed by com.pe- tent disinterested persons. Martha Anme Lewis. Sparta, Dec. 26, 1314. REPORT of the Tillage and Product of one Acre of Land in Corn, b-y Thomas C. Grimes, in 1844. The land is a stiff red mulatto soil. I put on, broadcast, 41X) bushels stable manure; then cohered each way ; then opened a furrow, and in that drilled the corn, and pul in, al30,-some cotton seed as manure. The field was lain off in this way, every 3| feet, and so planted. I plowed this corn three times. The first time i sided with a colter and swept out the middles.' The second lime I plowed it out with a turning plow; and the third time, swept it. 1 hoed it twice — once when small, and laid it by with the hoe. I thinned it out to about 18 inch- es in the drill. The season was' favorable, ex- cept in July, when it suffered exceedingly from a drought, so much so, the stalks fired to the ears, about the linse the grain was forming. The product from one acre, 64 busliels and 3 pecks. Thomas C.. Grimes, Sparta, Dec. 26, 1844. REPORT of the Tillage and' Product of otie Acre of Laud in Wheal, by WiiLSAM. TEaREiL, in 1844. The land was plowed twice — well broken up and deep; alter which there was applied to the surlace from 20 to 25 bushels cotton seed, the vegetable principle having been destroyed in the seed by having lain in a heap l i il heat^'. After the cotton seed was applied broadcast, the wheat was sown and plowed in lightly, and the ground levelled by drawing over it a heavy brush, which left it smooth There was sown, on the acre one bushel of wheat called the Moore wheat, Irom Warren county, on the Sth. Octo- ber, 1843, and cut about the I2th May, 1*844. Product 25 and | bushels. \Vm. Terrell. Sparta, Dee. 26, 1844. REPORT of the Tillage end Product ot one Acre sf l.and in Wheat, by B. M. Pendleton, in 1844 jfibout one-lourih of my land is a dark, rich, loamy soil, lying in a shallow bottom or valley, and the re.tiainder grey and quite thin, skirting a gentle slope ol rising ground. Had been in constant cultivation tor tnany years, principally in corn. I sowed without any reference to pre- mium, about the lOth October, 1843, alter corn and peas had been gathered, and ground been turned over with an iron turning plow. Put about a bushel and a quarter of seed to the acre, of little white wheat, soaked in brine and sprink- led with lime. Plowed in with a scooter, har- rowed and rolled, made water furrows in the bottom part, as it had been very wet even for corn. About the first of February, came to the conclusion to offer for a premium, and scattered some fifty or seventy-five bushels of cotton seed over it, which told vvell considering the latenes‘3 of the application. Cradled eaily in Jui.e, and whipped out by hand, 19^ bushels line merchantable wheat. It was free from cockle, smut, and every other fo- reign body. The measure u.sed was subse- quently found to be a litlle too large. The cost of cultivation, manure and gather- ing was about ^^12. The value of the wheat, straw and chaffj about S24— leaving ^12 profit. Sparta, Dec. 26, 1844. E. M. Pendleton. REPORT of the Culture and Product of one Acre of Land in Cotton, by Richard P. Sasnett, in 1844. Soil gray or sandy, good clay foundation ; would produce 800 lbs. cotton per acre, without manure, February L4th, had the land cohered, and water from ditch in horse lot sprinkled over pait of it, say two-thirds ; had no means of as- certaing the quantity. March 6, had it plowed deep with a scooter plow, following in the same furrow with a colter; put on 410 bushels ma- nure broadcast. This manure consisted prin- cipally of pine straw and oak leaves, pretty well trampled in the hog pen, but not well rotted. March LO, had 320' bushels mud Irom pond near horse lot spread broadcast. March 11, had 2 cart loads of ashes and shared pine straw from, fresh burnt woods, estimated at 100 bu- shels. March 18, had 220 bushels compost sta- ble manure hauled on to maaivre in l.he hill This manure consisted of stable manure, weeds, leached ashes and pine straw, penned ia July last,, and watered from ditch in horse lot. Not well decomposed,, owing to its being put up too dry. March 25, cliecked of? the ground 3« by 4 feet 10 inches. Put a shovel lull of the above manure in each check; covered k the wide way with a list turning plow. March 29 and 30, poured over it the contents of ditch, quanti- ty unknown, but made the ground quite moist. The contents of ihe ditch were made up ol drainings from horse loi, and dead animals co- vered with pond mud, and at the lime of its ap- plication, undergoing fermentation freely. April 6, split the list with a small cotton scooter and pul a single handtuJ of unleached ashes in each check; after which 1 pul about thirty cluster cotton. seed) in each check, and covered with the toot. The seed were rolled in ashes. The cot- ton, sprouted quickly and came up well. As soon as the fifth leaf began to make its appear- ance, it began to die, until it was knee high. I continued to re-plant until 1st June, and then transplanted 3 or 409 stalkis, about one-third of which lived but did not do well. 1 think every filth hill is missing. It suffered excessively with lice. May I, plowed with a scooter, col- ter following pretty deep; scraped round the cotton with a hoe, thinning it out to four or fiwe stalks. May 12, plowed with a sweeper, fol- lowed by a hoe, thinning to 3 stalks, dining it slightly with a hoe. May 29, swept it over again lightly, follov/ed by a hoe. June 16, gave it a slight sweeping, followed by a hoe. July 1, chopped it over lightly broadcast with the hoe. July 17, gave it another light hoeing broadcast, for the last time. August 15, cotnmenced pick- ing. November 1, finished picking. Product 2037 lbs. R. P. Sasnhtt, Sparta, Dee. 30, 1844. REPORT of th« Culture and Product of o-oe and one- third Acres of Land in Cotton, by Benj. T. Harris, ill 1844. Land high, dry and thirsty ; mixture of long- leaved pine and oak timber; a part very stony ; in cultivation the- fifth year; amount of land, one and one-tliird a 'res. The quantity of ma- nure applied not accurately known, as it was hauled on the land, before it was designed for a premium crop; amount estimated at 25 carl loads, drawn by a single team of o.xen. duali- ty of manure, a mi.xture ol stable and lot, well decomposed; spread broadcast, on I2ihand I3th April. Bedded immediately with scooter in the old row, being in coiton previous year; 3. feet 9 inches asunder. Colton ol the variety called cluster. Planted on 15th April, by opening a small furrow wdlh a scooter, the seed strewed moderately thicx and covered with a board. May 9, sided with a email scooter with a guard board attached, and p:;. -.e,! 'liU a large scooter. Mav 13, chopped over, lea- i :g from 1 to 3 stalks 15 to 16 inches apart, and dirt- ed slightly. May 18, swept over with common sweeper. June 5,sidedwilh scooter; plowed the remainder of the row with sweeps. June 12, hoed again and thinned to one stalk general- ly. In my absence Irom home, it received a sweeping and hoeing, the date of which I am not able to give— il was not noted. July 26, swept over and hoed again, for the Ifist time. 2291 lbs. on the whole;; product per acre, 17281 lbs. Remarks. — The abov'c lot was worked at such times as it was needed'. The several operations being conducted in the usual mode. S'parta, Dec. 31, 1844. Benj. T. Harris. REPORT of the Tillage and Product of one Acre of Land in Colton, by R. S. Hardwick, in 1844 The land light, gray soil, old and quite thin ; not able, without manure, to produce more than 300 lbs. of cotton per acre. Plowed in the or- dinary way, and with ordiirary cuirure. The crop was planted on the Cloud plan, in part. The land was broken up in January with the colter, running very deep. It was iro. mediately cross-plowed with the turning plow, followed in the track by a colter, partially doing what is called subsorlmg. The land was then laid off 5 leet one way and 3' feet the other, with a scoo- ter, followed by a double turner, which opened the furrows deep and well. There was then de- posited in each cl.eck, one half gallon manure,, (no manure spread broadcast,) well rotted stable manure. After it was deposited, it was bedded on, by running two lurning plow furrows on each'srdecf the furrows the wide way, leaving a small part ot the middle unplowed. The rains that fell between this operation and planting, so obliterated my iurrows the 3 feet way, that I was unable to check off as Cloud directs. I was therefore driven to the necessity of opening my beds in the usual way, and dril'- ling my seed and covering with a board. This- operation was the 10th April. The first opera- tion was with the hoe, which was simply chop- ping about the cotton to break the crust, to keep the cotton from dying. About this time the balks that were left in bedding the land, were plowed with a turningplow ;; this operation was- early in May. In some f2 or 14days, the cotloQ having taken a rapid growth, the places where the manure was deposited were clearly indica- ted b} the growth of the cotton. It was fheB plowed with a sweeper and chopped out, leaving one stalk in a place. In about three weeks, it was plowed deep and close with a scooter, fol- lowed by a hoe, and slightly wed. In about three weeks, the sweeper was again run through it, followed* by a hoe. Alter this, say in threfe or four weeks, the hoes went through it, and chopped wh-at grass there was without attempt- ingtodravf any dirt to the cotton. The product was 1600: lbs. per acre. lu this report, it will be observed, that no ma- nure was used broadcast, and only one half gal- lon applied to the hill, which took, on the acre, 183| bushels. It will be also seen, that in my judgment, the land without manure, and with the common culture, would not have produced over 300 lbs. per acre. Therefore, for the trou- ble and expense of applying 183 bushel's ol ma- nure, with the change ia the method, which re- ally amounted to but very little more labor, if any. I have increased my crop 1300 lbs. per acre. This amount, at the now low price of coiton, would be worth S’20; therefore 183 bu-^ shels of manure, with the trouble and labor of applying it, is worth S20. Richard S. Hardwick. Sparta, Dee. 31, 1844. A Discovery.— Capt. Pittman, of the brig Siar, which arrived at New York on Thursday, Irom Grenada, says that he has discovered a method of* ascertaining longitude without the use of a chronometer. Unless we are mistaken the British Government many years, since ofier- * ed a handsome reward for such a discovery. fii'iifrnn" -tTOTiwriF laaftav.^.?!; tfBag'a?=iTagi THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 29 From the Massachusetts Plowman. MANAGEMENT OF THE HORSE. This noble animal is an indispensable ser- vant and companion of ihe larmef. He plows, he harrows, he carts over the larm. He goes to market, to mill, and to meeting ; he also accom- panies his master to election Irolics, political gatherings, and winter sleigh rides, and his com- pany is as much sought alter, at such times, as the orators or the fiddler’s. The horse is more olten abased than any ol our domestic brutes. He is too generous to spare his limbs or his wind when v;e are in haste, and his generous ambiiien too olten causes his tuin. On the larm, however, the horse is not so ge- nerally over-driven as on the highway, when we attempt to outstrip the wind, and leave steam engines behind. It is fast driving and subse- quent neglect that bring on sprained joints, bro- ken lungs and premature old age. Horses that are worked on a farm and well attended to will olten be good m harness at 25 years ot age; while those that travel in stages are not expected to last longer, on the average, than six or seven years. They are then turned olF to the farmer to serve in better business, or are sold to the tanner for what the skin is worth. We have thrown out a few hints, in a former number, on the subject of horse-breaking. We hold that any horse, with proper breaking, may be made to draw as sure as an ox. The horse requires different treatment, because he knows more. And this circumstance makes it abso- lutely necessary that his driver should be wiser than the driver of an ox. We cannotvouch for the saying of the Irishman, “that a horse knows as much as a man accordinc to his bigness.” Still we conjecture that some horses have more understanding than some men have. HOW TO TREAT HORSES ON A JOURNEY. Much judgment is requisite to keep a horse in good trim on a long journey, and when your jaunt is but 20 miles, it is worth your while to look well to your horse. The first step is to fit the horse fur the journey. If he has been kept out at pasture, he should be taken up and put to hay and gram for a number of days before starting. Hay and grain must be his food while belabors hard; but when you first commence giving grain you mustlimitthe quantity. When he has become used to eating grain, you can make that his piincipal food on a journey; and this you will find cheaper than any other food. W e have known farmers, of very good sense in ether matters, act most absurdly jn the ma- nagement of a horse. They will give “Dobbin” a mess of grain just before starting in the morn- ing— though he hasnot been used to eating it be- fore— just as if half a peck of oats or corn, crammed dowm hastily, would aid him in his journey. Dobbin would pertorm much better through the day without a mouthful of grain. Even one that has been long used to it should never have his stomach stuffed full of it just be- fore starting. Your most hearty food should alt be given at night, unless you have ostlers that can be de- pended on to feed them two or three hours be- fore morning; in such case a paitof yourgrain may be given at night, soon after you stop, and the remainder two hours at least before you re- new your journey. We are aw'are that some overwise teamsters will argue, that if you give your horse his grain at night he will eat no hay of consequence, and that you will throw away the money you pay for hay feeding. They therefore endeavor to stuff in as much hay as possible at first, and give the more palatable food for a dessert or stuf- fer. This is most unwise on two accounts — your horse needs his most hearty food soon alter his day’s work is over— and very hearty food hurts him when fed just before his work com- mences. If the grain is ^iven at night, your horse soon eats enjugtr to cloy him sufficiently to induce sleep and rest; but if he must have poor pick- ' ing lor some hours alter being put up, his lime of sleep and rest is delayed. It may require the whole night, on fodder that he must pick over, to satisfy the craving of his appetite. It you are used to travelling, you know you cannot always be sure of the best ot hay for your horse. In New York the Dutch tavern keeper advises you to feed vi’wh his latest cut ko,y. He argues that more heart is found in this than in what is cut while in lull blossom. Well, give a know'ing horse such hay and he will stare you in the face and whinnow for grain. We have travelled much, and on long jour- neys— we have learned from long experience that grain must be our chief reliance lor horse food — that the horse wants something substan- tial soon after being pul up — that his grain then benefits him much more than at any other time, because he is then most in want of it, and be- cause it then has time enough to digest and go into the system. The best mode is to rely chiefly on grain. One peck of good corn is equal to two pecks of oats, but as your hay may not be good, prefer turning down half a bushel of oats before your horse, soon after putting him up at night. He must have something to fill his stomach, and as the hay may be worthless, your oats will an- swer lor hay and grain too. Your horse will now soon eat as much as he wants— he will soon lie down to rest and to sleep; and before morning his grain will all be converted into good chyle and will be nourishing his blood. The next morning your horse will be ready to start before you wake up. Instead of waiting for him to eat a new mess of grain, and then to let it digest, you find him plump and good na- tured, and asking for nothing but your compa- ny. It is well known that horses are oiten ruined by eating grain at improper times. Farmers have fancied that eating it while the animal is hot with exercise is the principal cause of inju- ry from grain; but it is not so. We have known many horses to die suddenly on eating grain, hut never on account of eating it soon after stopping. It is rapid driving — violent ex- ercise soon after eating the most hearty kind ol food, that is so destructive to travelling hoises. There is no more danger in giving a horse the most hearty food in ten minutes alter he stops, than in giving a man his most hearty meal as soon as he quits mowing in a hot day. Let any one consult his own feelings and he may rid himself of the delusion that eating after violent exercise injures him more than at other times. It is violent exercise immediately alter eating, before the food has had lime to change, that deranges the whole system and causes death. If any traveller objects to the cost of feeding on grain while on a journey, we answer that you pay no more lor half a bushel of oats than for half a peck —for if you order half a bu- shel, you buy at wliole-^^ale, and your landlord will charge you nothing lor the hay. Suppose you pay double the wholesale price for oats, your horse keeping is then but fifty cents, in any country town in New England. And if you call for half a peck of oats, with hay, you will find your bill not far short oi that sum. STAGE HORSES. These may be kept in a different manner from those that are on long journeys. They are al- ways kept cd home, and their tenders have leisure enough to prepare their food for them. Grain is the principal food of stage horses, but it is found economical to mix up cheap sub- stances with it to distend the stomach and to keep the horse in health. Cut straw, or cheap hay, mixed vilh Indian meal is found to be ex- cellent food lor hard laboring horses; and as drivers have leisure enough to prepare it, this has now become the common lood of such teams. Thirty j'ears ago it was the practice of drivers to give their hor.sts meal anrt water on stopping for a few minutes t') take breath. In hot wea- ther it was no uncommon case to see a horse drop suddenly dead in the street. On opening the stomaeh raw meal was found in cakes. I he violent exerci.se to whirh these horses are sub- ject gives no time lor the rich lood to change. The horse cannot vomit, as a man and some other animals can, and he dies with a load on his stomach vvhicti he has no means to remove. Show us one case where a horee has been in- jured by eating while warm and we will show you a hundred where he iias died in consequence of travelling immediately after eating grain. You have all eat hearty meals immediately after labor, and while in a state of perspiration, withont injury. And you have all lelt pain, on using violent exercise immediatelv aftereating. Judge ot the h^rse as of yourself and you will judge rightly. ’ DIFFERENT MODES OF DRIVING. ses on a journey. The most important conside- ration is to take all due advantage of the ina- vienluvi, ov acquired motio7i, wh'xoh your team has got up. You see it requires much more power to start a train of cais than to keep it in motion when under way. So when you move a tub ol water on a dray, you find the water in- clined to stand stiil, though your tub moves on- ward; but the water soon acquires the motion ol the tub, and if you keep your tub moving steadily the water will need no more spurring, W hen your team has once set the load in mo- tion it should be regu.arly kept in motion as long as your momentum lasts. Set a planet in motion, and it continues in motion, fur there is nothing to obstruct it. But bodies moving on another body are held to it by at raction.'and any acquired motion is soon overcome by it. On desceriding a hill you acquire momentum with but little effort, and one important point, in driving, is to inalre as much as possible ot this power— kepp it m use as long as you c n. A good driver will never lose the power that his carri.Tge has acquired in descending a hill till it has been fairly overcome bv friction cau- sed by the attraction that is found in all bo- dies. The momentum thus acquired may car- ry him across a plain, or part way up the next hill; he should therelore be careful not to check this motion in the least degree; but by keeping his team along out ot its way, and making them lavor rather than check it, he will lose none ot Its force. But you find thoughtless drivers continually disregarding this obvious principle. They will come to a walk while the carriage has not vet lorgotlen its good will to move. The team ‘in- stead of favoring the good will of the carriage IS found hanging by the breaching. To com- pensate for this lotal loss, the driver finds it ne- cessary to renew the momentum, and he will of- ten do it by whipping his team while raising the next hill! Folly, folly. Your learn must have time to breathe, and the best time is while walking up hill. But the team should never be required to get up a great degree ot momentum on rising ground. The Editor ol the Alabama Journal has been presented with a novel vegetable ol the cabbage kind, raised by E. A. Holt, from seed sent to him from Belgium, by the Hon. H. W, Hilliard. This vegetable is about the size of a small hen .s egg, and is a perfect cabbage, firm, and white; it is said to be a most delicate dish, and superior to anyol ihesame iarailv of^ants. The seeds were sown in May, and transplanted in August as other cabbage plants are, each plant producing irorn thirty to forty of these beautiful little cabbage heads. I^An establishment for'rhe manulacture of various articles ol silk is now in active opera- tion at Louisville. The Louisville Journal says — “ Most of the operations in this factory are effected by steam. I'lie cocoons aie reeled on the machine universally known as the Piedmon- tese ree‘, aad the silk is spun on a iliro. fie ma- chine, a inodification of which makes the twist- ed silk. Bhree lo''ms are woiked, and are piin- cipally employea in making sewing silk, liand- kerchiefs, vestings, and dre‘s patterns lor ladies.” 30 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. From the American Farmer. PLASTER AS A MANURE. If any one were asked, what substance next to Lime had produced the greatest melioration in the soil ol America, candor would force him to say that Plaster had. It is well known, too, that ii has produced quite a revolution in the agri- culture ol France, England and Germany. But although lew have tried it but to experience its benefits, although much ol il is used in our country, and the use of it is on the increase, still its use and increase holds no just proportion to what its merits asafertilizerof the soil would indicate that they should be. For a long .series of years the opinion obtained among farmers, to considerable extent, that it was of no utility on lands in the vicinity of salt water rivers; but this opinion, formed from erroneous premi- ses, is pretty generally exploded, il it has not become obsolete. We believe that il sprung, in the first instance, from its use, without obvi- ous beneficial effects, upon the chalk soils ol England bordering on the ocean ; but the wAy of its inefliciency on such soils was discovered by chemical analyses to arise Irom the fact that piaster, or the sulphate ol lime, abounded in those soils prior to the application ; and hence its inertness was directly traced to the fact ol its pre-existence in the soil, and not to its prox- imity to salt water. So it is with salt. This mineral when used on lands too remote from salt watei to be etfected by the sprays, operates as a good manure, when used either in com- posts or sown broadcast, but if applied to lands within the range of the influence of salt sprays, it is of no avail, and for the simple reason, that the mineral had already been supplied by ano- ther agency. Lime, loo, if applied to a soil where it already abounded in abundance, would be found to be ol no service, as the plants can only take op a certain portion, when held in so- lution by the rains, and any quantity beyond what is necessary to afford the appropriate sup- ply of stimulus, or nutriment, whichever it may be, or perhaps both, is expletive, and if it do not do harm, can be of no service. Plaster, salt and lime, have each and all, in their turn, been con- demned by superficial reasoners, who have drawn their conclusions from isolated cases of experiments, as injudiciously tested as sense- lessly condemned, and yet the brightest agricul- tural intelligences of the age, and t;eneral exj'e- rience, concur in the opinion, that when used with discretion, they are all admirable manures. What their specific actions are — whether the one or the other be stimulants, alteratives, promoters of digestion, absorbents, neutralizers, or nutrients, must, to a certain extent, remain as matters of speculation ; for even by the aid of the mo.st careful analyses of both them and their products, no settled or well defined opin- ions can be formed ol the peculiar province which they exert, or the modus operaruU by which their mysteries are wrought ; for, of a cer- tainty, they do each produce mysteries, as asto- nishing as those which marked another era of the world. If we give to a horse, who has already gor- mandized to his fill, a feed of oats, the probabil- ity is, that he will refuse them ; but this is no reason why we should condemn that grain as food for horses; neither is it lair to reject pla.s- ter, salt or lime, because, when applied to lands where they superabound, they do not manifest their improving properties. If the horse to w’hich the oats were oflered had been hungry, he would have devoured them with an admira- ble relish; so, also, had these minerals been presented to soils in need ol them, their good ef- fects would have been apparent. When we took pen in hand, our intention was, simply to introduce the article which we will subjoin upon “ Gypsum as a Manure;" but as we have digressed, and in our ramble touch- ed upon salt and lime, also, w’e shall quit these, and confine our succeeding remarks to plaster alone. For a long series ol years, plaster was con- sidered merely in the light ol a stbmdanl—llyAl it produced the growth of plants in a similar way to that by which alcoholic spirits produced plethora in the human system — by unnatural excitement — and the necessary consequence of this belief led to the opinion, that although the application of plaster produced temporary bene- fits' to a few crops, yet that it ultimately injured lands to which it is long, or in large quantities applied— that the land became plaster-sick. This plaster-sickness, we apprehend, was pro- duced in the same way that gluttons lake away their appetites— by over-fevtding. This stimu- lant theory, of course, rejected all idea that plas- ter could be considered in the light of a nutritive manure, and held that it was a mere exciter. And in aid of this view, the smallness ol the quantity used—a bushel to the acre — was addu- ced, as a proof positive of its beauty and truth. Now, we confess that we have long since re- jected this theory as unsound, unsatisfactory and unphilosophic. All analyses have proved, that vegetables, to which plaster had been ap- plied, eoDtained traces of the mineral — some more, same less, out all some. Then, in con- sidering and reflecting upon this fact, the ques- tion involuntarily occurred to our mind; if plaster affords no nou'ishment, how is it, that these plants were enabled to take it up through their feeders, and assimilate in the general mass of their constituent elements. And the only ra- tional answer to v'hich our mind could arrive, was, that if it bad not been of that character, it would have been rejected by the plants, and nevercould have been incorporated so intimate- ly, as all experience proved if had been. The latter labors of scientific men prove, that it is not only food of itself, but that plaster is a purveyor ol food ; that by its powers of absorp- tion, attraction and retention, it appropriates to itself from both earth and air, those rare and volatile gases, which form the very nourishment on which plants most delight to feed. Let us hear what Liebig says upon this branch of the subject: “ The evident influence ol gypsum upon the growth of grasses— the striking fertility and luxuriance of a meadow upon whish it is strew- ed— depends only upon its fixing in the soil the ammonia of the atmosphere, which would other- wise be volatalized, with the water which eva- porates. The carbonate of ammonia contained in rain water is decotnposed by gypsum, in pre- cisely the same manner as in the manufacture ol sal ammoniac. Soluble sulphate of ammo- nia and carbonate of lime are formed; and this salt of ammonia possessing no volatility is con- sequently retained in the soil. All the gypsum gradually disappears, but its action upon the carbonate of ammonia continues as long as a trace of it exists.” Again : “ It is quite evident, therefore, that the com- mon view concerning the influence of certain salts upon the growth of plants evinces only ignorance of its cause. The action of gypsum really consists in their giving a Jixed condition to the nitrogen — or ammonia, which is brought into the soil,, and which is indispensable for the nutrition of plants.” P aster, according to Liebig, attracts not only from the atmosphere the ammonia, v hich is precipitated with the rain and snow, retains it in the earth lor 'he use ol the growing plants, but prevents the escape ol tbe same fertilizing gases consequent upon the decomposition of vegetable and animal manures, and feeds them out as they may be needed by the necessities of the plants. By adopting this theory, which is beautiful and more than plausible, we behold the wisdom and mercy of God, in furnishing to man, at a moderate cost, an agent for prevent- ing the waste ol the riches of earth and air, that fruitfulness may abound. We say that there is more than plausibleness in this theory— nay, that there is truth in it. Unless its agency ex- tended beyond itself, how else could we account for the astonishing effect produced by the very small quantity of a bushel to the acre — however slimulative the carbonate ol lime and sulphuric acid may be, of which plaster i-s composed, un- less it composed other powers, it never could exert such potential influence, as it does, upon vegetable growth. Having premised thus much, we present to our readers the following article, which should command attention; GYPSUM AS A MANURE. [We take the following extracts from ths pamphlet noticed in our last, from which we copied some rules lor the application of guanoy by J. H. Sheppard, London.— iV. E. Earmer.'\ Gypsum, or the leal sulphate of lime, is con- sidered by all scientific chemists and agricuL turist a most powerful agent as manure. 1 beg to quote an extraordinary instance of its eff'ects, on its first introduction into Norfolk, in 1816. When I was attending Mr. Coke's sheep shear-*' ing, at Holkham House, and conversing with him in the park, he complained to me that a portion of his estate, near Wells, (about six miles distant,) was a very light sandy land ; and, although he treated k in every respect like the rest of his farm, with plenty ol manure, he waar unable to produce more than six or eight faushcls^ of grain per acre. 1 recommended him to ap- ply gypsum, and he desired me to lor ward him ten tons, for a trial. When 1 again called on him, (three years after,) he said the land before mentioned, by the application of gypsum, instead of producing 6 to 8 bushels of grain per acre, averaged 32 bushels ol American barley, 36 ol Chevalier barley, and 20 of wheat, per statute acre. I beg further to observe, that gypsum, applied upon light or blow-away sands, in liberal quan- tities, two or three times, turning over the soil and harrowing in, causes a body, and conse- quent adherence in the soil, which forms a ba- sis or groundwork, so that it will nUimatejy re- tain manures bestowed upon it, which previous- ly were washed into the bowels of the earth, without the least possible benefit to the crops. 1 can only repeat, that the application ol gyp- sum to sand land, ifof genuinequality, and sys- tematically worked into the land, would prove the greatest benefit to the agricultnrist. N. B. — The top-dressing for the fly, and in- deed all top-dressings, should be fine gypsum, and applied either between showers of rain or in the early dew of the morning. Oorer.— Of this plant, gypsum is the indis- pensable, natural and most favorite food, and in which it delights to luxuriate. Upon a mea- sured portion ot young clover and other spring seeds, on a light gravelly soil, R. F. Long, Esq., of Bancroft, this year sowed gypsum as a top- dressing, in showery weather, at the rate of five bushels per acre. Comparing the produce and growth of this portion with the remainder of the field, he expresses himself thus: “You have olten seen a particular spot where a manure heap has been laid— its thickening and towering above everything around it: now this is exactly what your tenant’s gypsum has done.” Oats. — Mr. E. Jefferson, of Low Burnham, drilled in some oats upon a black moory soil, with a compost of ashes, rape-dust and soot. Immediately adjoining the compost oats, six rows were drilled in with gypsum alone, as an experiment. The gypsumed oats were pro- nounced by all, in less than a month, to be from 30 to 40 per cent, in advance of the compost, and the larmer afterwards informed me that, on harvesting them, they were decidedly the better crop, having stronger straw and larger ears. Every one extols, and justly so, the manure of the farm yard; yet how few attempt to hus- band it as they ought. “Far-fetched and dear- bought” as some of our manures are, the farm- er continues to buy, whilst he daily witnesses under his own nose the loss of most valuable manure. Ammonia is constantly rising from the stalls and dung-heaps which might he fixed by gypsum. The urine is allowed to run any- where but into reservoirs or tanks, and is soon dried up and lost. III temper puts as many briefs into the law- yer’s bag as injustice. See that what is learned is learned pcifcclly THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 31 HORTICULTURAL OUTLINE. AN OUTLINE of the first principles of Horticulture, by John Lindley, F R. S. &c. &c., Professor ol Bota- ny in the University of London, and assistant Secre- tary of the Horticultural Society. PREFACE. It has long been thought by intelligent men, that it would tend essentially to the advance- ment of horticulture, it the physiological prin- ciples upon which its operations depend lor their success, were reduced to a series of simple laws, that could be readiiy borne in mind by those who might not be willing to occupy them- selves with the study, in detail, of the complica- ted phenomena of Vegetable lite. The importance of these laws is so great, that there is not a single practice of the gardener, the farmer, or the lorester, the reason of which, it it relates to the Vegetable Kingdom, can be understood without a knowledge ot them. It has happened, indeed, that many very in- teresting facts in Horticulture, Agriculture, and Arboriculture, have been discovered fortuitous- ly; and that improvements in them still con- tinue to be occasionally the result ot accident, but it cannot be doubted that these discoveries or improvements would have been long antici- pated, had the exact nature ol the laws from which they necessarily result, been earlier un- derstood. There can, moreover, be but little mental in- terest in w'atching the success ol operations of which the reasons are unknown, compared with that which must be felt, when all the phenome- na attendant upon practice can be foreseen, their results anticipated, or the causes of failure ex- actly appreciated. It muse also be manifest, that, however skil- ful any person may become by mere force of habit, and by following certain prescribed rules, which experience has, or seems to have sanc- tioned ; yet that much more success might be expected, if he acted upon certain fixed princi- ples, the truth of which has been w^ell ascertain- ed, instead of following empirical prescriptions, the reason of which he cannot understand. It is not, however, to be understood, from this last observation, that rules of cultivation are to be neglected because they cannot be physiolo- gically explained. On the contrary, the mere fact ot a given mode of culture having been fol- lowed for a length of time by persons deeply in- terested in the success of their operations, and of much experience, ought to give it very great authority; for it is well known that there are many important facts, the reason of which is either extremely obscure, or altogether unintel- ligible. This may be owing either to the de- fective state ot our knowledge of the exact na- ture of many of the phenomena of life, or to the great difficulty of appreciating every ciicum- stance connected with the fact m question, or to constitutional idiosyncrasy, from exceptions to the ordinary laws of nature, and baffle ail phi- losophy. It is in the writings of Vegetable Physiolo- gists that is to be found what is known of the relation of Botany to the cultivation of Plants; but it is always so mi.xed up with other matter, that an ordinary reader is unable to tell what bears upon HoVticultute and what upon other subjects. I am not aware that there is at pre- sent, in any language, a work exclusively de- signed to separate that part of Vegetable physi- ologv, which relates to the Science of Cultiva- tion, from what appertains to pure Botany, or to other subjects; nor can I learn that such an undertaking is in contemplation. I am, therefore, induced to lay the following lit- tle work before the public ; first, by a persuasion that it is better that the attempt should be made imperfectly, than not made at all ; and, second- ly, bv the very favorable reception that has been given to a few hasty ideas upon this subject, which I ventured to sketch out for a work pub- lished some months ago. The following propositions are prepared upon the same plan as tho.se of an elementary work upon Botany originally drawn up for the use of the Botanical class in the University ol Lon- don. A similar object has here also been kept in view. My intention has not been to write a work on the philosophy of Horticulture; but simply to point out in the briefest manne.'", con- sistent with clearness, what the lundamental principles ot that Philosophy have been ascer- tained to be. The application of these principles has been necessarily, in all cases, very concise; but there will be no disadvantage if the work acts as an exercise of the reasoning powers, as well as a guide to practice. It may, perhaps, be thought that several points have been omitted, which it would have been desirable to introduce, such as the influence upon vegetation ol electricity, manures, pruning, training, and the various modes of grafting. But it is possible that a little consideration may shovv that these subjects do not strictly come within the scope of the following pages. In the first place, a distinction must be drawn between the Art and the Science of Horticul- ture; the former teaches the manner, the latter the reasons of cultivation ; and it is to the latter only that these propositions apply. Secondlv, the plan of this sketch excludes everything that is merely speculative, or that is incapable of being reduced within certain fixed principles. Electricity is a power of which we know al- most nothing certain, with reference to vegeta- tion ; it many things have been written about it, it must be aamitted, at least, that very little has been improved. The same may be said of manures; the the- ory of their action is explained at paragraphs 19, 262, and 266. Pruning and training are a part of the art of cultivation, dependent upon a great variety ot physiological laws, the brief explanation ol which is ihf object of this woik. A few hints upon the subject will, however, be found in chapters III, IV, VI, and VIII. The various modes of grafting are also a part of the ^72 of Horticulture; and are deduced from laws explained in the XlVth chapter. To conclude; the reader should above all things bear in mind that he ought not form his opinion upon any point from the mere conside- ration of ons or two isolated propositions, but of the whole of the phenomena which it is the ob- ject of the following pages to explain. For he will find that the vital actions of plants are so dependent upon each other, and of so complica- ted a nature, that, while the whole can only be understood by a study of the parts, neither can any of the parts be exactly understood, without a knowledge of the whole. (To be conlinued.) SUBSOIL PLOW AND PLOWING. Allow me for a moment to ask your attention to the subsoil ploio, with which I presume you are but little, it any acquainted. Although known for years in Europe, and in some parts of our own country, I am not aware that it has been much used in this county. It is made to follow in the furrow’ directly after the common surface plow, loosening and moving the earth to the depth ol six or eight inches below’ the first furrow, without bringing any part of it to the surface. The advantage to be derived from such loosening is, that the superabundant moist- ure settles down to the bottom ot the lurrow, and there is a constant operation of the atmos- phere, which gradually converts it into produc- tive soil. It thus produces all the benefits of deep plowing, without the disadvantage of the admixt- ure of an undueproporiion of unproductive ingre- dients inthe soil. The soil thus moved will afford space for the extension of the roots or fibres of the plants, so that in seasons of drought they will be less likely to fail. And the ultimate conse- quence will be, if the land is properly manured, an additional depth to the soil, —say instead of 6 or 7 inches, there will be found 10 or 12 inch- es. For root crops, and many others, such an alteration mu.st be of great value. Where this process ot subsoil plow’ing has been tried for a number of years successively, and the subsoil has been gradually mixing with the upper soil, the whole has been lound so completely changed as to be capable of producing crops that could not before have been cultivated to any advan- tage. iVlr. Phinney, of Lexington, to whom the agi icultural community are under great obliga- tions for his numerous and well conducted ex- periments, particularly those in the manage- ment of grass lands, first brought the subsoil plows into use in this vicinity, about three or four years since. The pattern then used has been much improved by different manufacturers — some specimens of which have this day been exhibited and tiied. Mr. Phinney, who has used tnis plow on many acres ot his own farm, informed me that the productive quality of his soil, for many crops, had been increased fifty per cent, by its use. On a question ot practical cultivation, there is no man’s opinion more worthy ol regard. — Mi\ Proclor's Address. [The follow’ingnote is appended to the above :] In a recent letter received from Mr. Phinney, he says: “ I have used the subsoil plow sorne three or four years, and such is the estimate in which I hold this important implement, that I should consider it a great piece of improvidence to put in a crop without first subsoiliug the ground. The character of our soil and dimate are both such, being subject to the extremes of wet and dry, as to render the use ol the subsoil plow ol more essential benefit here than in En- gland, ana if 0 ae-half iho effects from its use, said to be produced in that couniry, are realized here, no farmer should be without a subsoil plow. The substratum with us, is either hard gravel or clay. Both are greatly beaefiited by the use of this plow. In case ot too much wet, the redundancy of water is absorbed by loosen- ing the subsoil — when too dry, the plants can find support by being enabled to extend their roots deeper in search of moisture. Our crops, particularly our potatoes and other root crops, as they are called, olten suffer from droughts that almost invariably occur in our climate in August or .September. A failure of these crops is oftener owing to this than any other cause. Without resorting to the test of experiment, can any rational farmer doubt that this obstacle to the productiveness of our soil, may be, in a great measure, overcome by loosening the sub- soil. In our old fields, which have been culti- vated for many years, with the use of no other than the common plow, an under crust has been formed by the travelling of the oxen and move- ment of the plow for a long time, at a few inch- es below the surface. This is generally so hard as to be impenetrable by the roots of plants, and hence the necessity of breaking this crust by the subsoil plow’. A soil having close and hard gravel, or a stiff clay bottom, may perhaps derive equal benefit from the use of the subsoil plow. Most of my observations, with regard to its beneficial effects have been upon the former, having but little land w’ith a clay bottom. The objections to deep plowing that exist in the minds of some farmers, cannot apply to subsoil plowing, inasmuch as the poor- er part of the soil is loosened, but not brought to the surface.” Guinea Goose. — This is the largest of the goose tribe which has fallen under our notice; it is of the size of the swan, and it often weighs more than 25 pounds. We haye now in our possession one pair w’hich we purchased for a gentleman in South Carolina, which will weigh in common ordinary condition, over 20 pounds each. We once ow’ned a gander that weighed 24 pounds. They are a noble bird, quite orna- mental about the premises, and add much to the scenery, particularly if a sheet of w’ater be near. When floating on its surface they have a stately majestic appearance, and in their move- ments they much resemble the swan. They have a low, hollow, coarse voice, unlike that ot any other variety, — Bement’s Poulterer's Comp. 32 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. Thk AtORK G&'Es BRAVELY ON.— Among the many evidences ol the spirit that now animates the citizens of Georgia we copy the following notice from the “ LiltU GcorgicM,'^ published in Forsyth, Monroe County. Remedy for ^ Hard Tmes.'’— The enierpr-’Ring citizens of Monroe are requested to convene at the court-house in Forsyth on the first Tuesday In February next, for the purpose ol iorming a Cotton Manufacturing Company, to erect a Factory at Towaligua Falls. All vvho leel an interest in the enterprise will do well to attend promptly. COIITEIHS OF THIS HUMBER. Agricultural Society, South Carolina State — Reports read before the 'p' Agriculture Products of the Wnited Startes' 21 Beets, cooking • .••••• Jp Book Farming — AFact 19 Cuinca Goose. “1 Hemp, Its culture atrd preparation. ........ ........ . 17 Hogs, some fine stock 26 Bnrticultural Chrrlrnc. 31 Horse, management ofthe « ImJigo " Seeping Cattle Warm ■‘o Marl Formation, the— Tertiary Formation of Sooth Carolina and Georgia. Overseers 'll* Planters’ Club of Hancock— iteporls read before lire Club 27 Piaster a IManure. . - vi • • . . a'. Subsoil Plow and Plowing,,..*...-.* 31 Editorials. — Acknowledgements ; To our Frietids and Patrons; Hemp; Keeping Cattle Warm; Lintfley’s Outline; European- Farming; Pictures; Cotton Esti- mate, 24, 25. GARDEH AHD FltiD SEED, A GENERAL a.ssi.rtment ol Iresh and genu- ine Garden and Field Seed, among which are the following : Red and white clover. Blue and green grass. Rye and orchard do Timothy and herds do Millet and Lucerne do Seed corn of every- valua- Buckwheat & potato oats, Seed wheat, [ble variety, Kept constantly on hand by the subscriber, all of which are offered for sale at' very moderate prices. All oiders, by mail or otherwise, eseouted wiih-neat- ness and despatch. Wii, Haines, Jr. 1 No. 232, Broad-street, Augusta, Ga. TURHEP SEED. A SUPPLY ol the following varieties of fresh Turnep Seed, just received, viz: Yellow Sweedish' or ruta baga, very fine for stock, L-arge globe turnep, ^ p; ^ ‘ ^ lute flat do , , , ^ table “ Hanover or white ruta baga do | Norfolk db J For sale in quantities to suit purchasers, by 1 Wm. Haines, Jr. AGRICULTURAL IMPLEMEHTS. Hazard, denslow & webster, Savannah, Geo., near the City Hotel, Dealers in- PAINTS, OILS, WINDOV/ GLASS, GUNPOWDER, SHOT, PAPER, AND AGRICULTURAL IMPLEMENTS. In aedition to their usual stock of the aboa’e named articles, the subscribers have, within the last year, made large additions to their assortment of Agricul- tural Implements, and now offer to planters a greater variety than any other establishment in the Scnrtheni country: amongst which may be found the following articles, viz: PLOWS. Yankee cast keji, No. 10, ll,12and20 Plows. Dagon, or ConnectiGUt wrouglit No. 1,2 and 3 do Allen pattern, do Ruggles, Nourse dc Mason’s improved do Viz: — Eagle plow, heavy, two horse or ox, do do with wheel and cutter, do No. 2 B Plow, for two horses, do “ 2 B do with wheel and culler. do A3 do medium, two-horse. do A 3 do with wheel aud emler. do “■ A 2 do light two horse do “• A t d o do one mule, or garden do “ 6 in. do do one horse turning do “ 7 in. do do do do do “ 15 do neve pattern, 1 horse, for light oc-il do Subsoil do heavy, two horse, or ox, do do do No 1 do do do do do do 0 one horse d'o Double mould-board or furrowing do Colton trenching do Rice do with guage wheel. do A I side-hill, or swivel mould-board, do No. 0 do do for one horse, do- Plow irons set up, of the above ki nds : also, extra stocks, which can be packed in small compass, thereby making a greaVsaving in transportation. Mould boards, points and heels or landsides, for all the above plows. Improved cultivators, willi guage wheel Cuitrvator plows, or horse hoes, Corhinon Harrows Folding do improved kind, Boxed lever straw cutters Improved self-feeding strew and corn stalk do, with spiral knives, simple in construction. Corn and cob crushers (hand mill) do do for horse power HOES. do bright do do 0, 1,2&3 do new ground d6 doPP&'PPP do oval eye grubbiRg do do ' 2 & 3 do Anchor hoes round do do do 2 & 3 do 00, 0, 1 & 2 Brades, patea Light Yankee t do d’o' CHAINS'. d'o0;i,2,3 lor w'atering stock and avoiding waste of water. They can be made any length, and at a much cheaper rate than an ordinary spout. To those persons who are not in pos- session of springs, they can fix a small lifting pump in any part of their farm, and supply their vats with water. As regards the proce.ss, there need not be the slightest apprehension as to deleterious effects to health. As a demonstration ol this lad, in my operations for the Government, I had about two hundred men at the various pools in the hemp-growing region ol Kentucky, Irom 1840 to 1841, in a circuit of 100 miles, and there was not one instance ol sickness, although many of the men e.xposed themselves to the water when it was not iiicessary, 1 also advice gentlemen not to attempt to deliv'er more than one ton of hemp to each laborer they have, and not to ex- ceed from 5 to 10 tons the season : beyond this, it will produce difficulties, 1 will also dbseive the necessity ol watching your hemp closely when near the time of its lull solution. If you permit it to have too much rot, it will injure the hemp seriously in strength and in weight ; and to avoid this, "to those that are not particularly acquainted with its proper solution, they may take it oui before it is car- ried too far, and spread it down upon the field, for the dews and rains to finish, but at the s ime time be particular to attend to turning it, that it may receive an equal proportion of rains and dew's throughout. Bemp rotted in the spring is not of as good quality as that rotted in the fall, say the months of October, Novemoer, and De- cember. The spring rot produces a lightness of color, and the staple is weakened and loses much in weight. This is produced by the state of the atmosphere, and the sudden and extreme changes of it, as also, the hemo lying in the stack alter being a long time cut, undergoes what is termed a sw'eat, which chances the state ol the staple. In all the hemp-growing regions of Russia, the crops amount yearly to 1)0,000 tons. The best hemp produced is in the Go- vernment of Cheiringoff. The hemp is mostly ol short staple, and of the very best quality ; the produce is about 15,000 tons yearly; — and also in part of the Govern nent of Orel, short staple is produced, and carried to the port ol Riga ; but the greater part of the hemp produced in this Government is long staple, of which the pro- duce isabout 14,000 tons. The hempol Koursk is mostly of long staple, and the produce isabout 13,000 tons. The hemp of the Go- vernment ol Tooler, is also long stanie, and produces about 13, COO tons. In the Govern- ments of Tambuff and Riazan, the produce is about 14,000 tons, but not of goo l quality, being more alter the color ot flax, and its staple is weak; it is chiefly produced lor the Archangel market, and a portion of it reaches St. Peters- burgh. Tlie hemp grown in the Government ot Smolenski, is of short staple, partakes ol the character of that produced in the Governments of Tambuff and Riazan, and which is mostly manufactured into sail-cloth fabrics; the pro- duce is about 7,000 tons, mo.stly short staple The Russian mode practiced in preparing their hemp, differs only with their instruction in rela- tion to the care and pains taken in preparation ; a portion of the country also adopts a chemical process to produce a rapid solution ol the gum whi'ffi is injurious to the staple. As this conn try is subject to frequent hail storms, the crops oftentimes fall short ot this. In laying this information before you, my ob- ject is to convey to you the quantitv and the va- rious qualities ol hemp prodiK-ed in the hemp growing regions of Russia. You will also m tice that we have a decided advantage over the Russian article, in comparing the small quan titj of long staple to ours, as all our hemp gene- rally is of long staple; therefore, by assiduous aueniion to the cultuie and luejiaring of it, our staple must and will have the ascendancy in the European market; in a rea.sonable time, Missouri can supply the whole world with hemp ; as well as must Illinois and Iowa arrive to be extensive hemp-growing Siaies, and of a superior quality. And let the agricultural in- terest of these IStates buckle on their energies and industry, and consummate it to the advance- ment of thei"^ own prosperity and the country in general. I have had the assurance recently given me, from a gentleman direct from London, ol the highest standing in mercantile transactions, that the moment we ar* prepared, he will efiLCt a conti'act to supply the British Government aith our hemp for the Navy, which currsumes equal to our N vy and our commercial enterprise, about 12,000 tons yearly. Also, the consump tion ot the port of London is SO, 000 tons year- ly, embracing the requirements of the Nav^y. I have also had the assurance, from a genile- nmn of high standing in commercial transac- tions in France, that from rhe character of our hemp, the moment the hemp is prepared, he will effect the supplying ot the French Navy with our staple. These countries are desirous to encourage us, that they may have two mar kets to flee to in case of any warlike disturb- ance, I have labored with great sacrifice of interest for these tour years, with the pleasmgand proud antifipatir.n to see the couniry independent ol this foreign staple, and that we tnay trecome heavy exporters; and the day is ri.o' tar distant, when these anticipations will be fully realized. Ah'l to lacilitaie this most important oijeci, I ave, bv the so.icitations of a number ot gen- tlemen, delegates trom the Wes', and others in power at this ciiy, consented to embark upon this arduous and hazardous undertaking, with the view ofsuppU'ing the Navy with Auierican Water’- Plotted Hemp, Ciom the V\ est, tor a term of years: I do assure you, gentlemen, that no |iecuniary inducement could liave influenced me to embark upon this work of enterprise again But something must be done to keep alive and finish this great work, which has been commenced, and is in progre>s to its ultimate accomplishment. 1 have K)st a large fortune in establishing the practicability of it, and have undergone great afflictions, in consequence ot which, 1 have fell I'elucianye to subject mysell to a second trial of rhe various circumstances which betel me, in effecting th,at Important ob- ject. Bui with a desire to prijuiote ike agricul- tural in! crest of the West, and to see mit enun- try speedily ind.ependinl of this forngn slopt-~, an I vvitii the confi lence I hav ' in y-ui, that you will support me in this aei of enter, rise, I now comeiorwarl once more -vith all my resources and energv, to give this subject additional im- petus, that will convince the world and the Russian Autocrat, that ttiis Republic can .stand tree and independen of his staple and fabrics, and can supply the c ^maieicial wo Id. To ac- complish this great work, 1 lean upon you, Ike farmers of Ike IFes', to rally to y aid, and give me your profnpe and en^^rgeiic co ojieraiion. And. to you, enterprising Ecsl'-rrs men, J invite you IF'S/i, to establish your ingenuiiy and en- terprise in machinery, for the manufactory of fa rics. Your iriteiest, far mers, vo'ur prosperi- ty, an I your dtu v as pamots, and as an example to the ri ing generation, iiemand your iironiut and undeviating atten ion to ihi-s imporiant siib- ject; in so doing, it acquires all, anrl will also be a blow struck at the foot ot the throne ol ttiat Autocrat, which may produce events that will in time give liberty to millionsi'l souls who are suffering under the most degraded bondage of slavery. The question no doubt will arise in vour mind. How is all this to be accomplished ? [ will answer briefly : Let every farmer take ■bur acres of his best land, sow' it down in hemp, follow my instruciians laid before you, to the letter. If von have no water convenient, build plank vats, 25 feet by 14, and 2j deep; pump the water into the u when the hem;) is laid in. They require but a small quantity of water; two men can pump -luticitut watei m a pay, and the same water, with a small portion of ad- ditional fresh added to it, it necessary, will an- swer lor two or three rottings. This size vat will answer for a crop of25 or 30 acres, which is more than one tanner should undertake the first year Four acres oi good ordinarv hemp, judiciously rotted, proper ly cleaned, scuichel- ed hatcheled, and well prepared, will yield to the larmer a gain e'earof all expense, ofS’lSO, or more. What can be a greater encouiagerncnt in an agricultural pursuit than thisi In addi- tion to this, a steady market, with the assurance that if you protiuce a prime article, the highest cash price is ready for you, aceording to its q'lality, delivered at the various p -intsol Agen- cies. Those persons wishing to see me, can address me at St Louis, post paiii, {^no letter will be taken out of the office, unless post paid.') I will either wail upon them p rsunally, or an- swer them frona any State that feels a de- sire to embark in this enterprise I am can- did to itilorm those th ;t have never water-rotted, that there is more labor attending this operation than they imagine. But do not be discouraged ; experience and lime will overcome it, in a very great degree. With perseverance and indus- trious attention, not relying on the care and at- tention of your negroes and laborers, but by your own close attention, you will see great ad- vantages to be gained in the prosecution oi this business. I can w’ilh confidence and in truth say, thai with practical experience and perse- verance, they will be found worth all the theory and negroes in existence, in the saving ot labor, expense, and the quality of the article produced. They will overcome difficulties and objections which first present them.selves to you in its in- cipiency, which finally become obstacles ol mi- nor consideration. Therefore be not deterred when they are met. But persevere, and ac- quaint yourselves of the most practical and economical manner to exercise in the water- rotting process. My plans are laid before you ; practice them, and you will imuroveon ihemj piaciice makes perlect, and opens t'l you advan- tages that can be applied to great impruvemenis and ecomimy. But throw aside all ideas of humbuggery, such as steam and chemical pro- cess. Hemp for the Navy, must not be less than lour feet and a half in length, a clear staple, of proper and natural strength, preserved by judi- cious treatment, and ut a bright color; dark henip will not be received for that puipose. It will be received and appropriated for coiniiier- cia! enterprise, at a reduced pi iee. It is the desire, that the larmer wilt practice ihe mode of scutcticling to lelieve the hemp ol the herds, in the place ofajiplying it so o ten to the brake. It straightens out the staple, and produces much less tow, when applied to the hatchel Also that they should become fami- liar with hatchelingol hempgenerally. It adds greatly to the chaiacler ot the hemp, east and abroad. And to those that wish to purchase hatchels. they can be olitained at St. Louis lor S'5 I I SC; nr any ordinary blacksmith can make P em, provided they understand setting the leeih, (itg' ner&liy depend.s on this ) If the teeth are not properly set, it will split and derange the staple, and produce much low. All hemp de- livered Linhaicheled, will be received and paid for according to quality, it has been the prac- tice to use great deception in the preparation of this aiticle, by secreting the diawings and slieaves in the centre ot tlie hands. But it v' ill be useless to attempt this, as they a.r^stiieol be^ ing detected. 'I’liereare four classe.s ol Russia Hemp; Ri- ga-Rliine, Clean St. Peteishiirgh, Hall clean, and Out-shot. And it is the intention of ihe un- dersigned, if emfiloyed by the Government, to cl ssily our hemp in like manner, and in that event the price paid will range up to $8 er li2 lbs , deli vered at St L oii-, for that quality of hemp ttiat w'ill st nd the test the Governo ent requires. Atid that can be eflecti d and pro- duced bv judicious rotting, scuicheling, halch- elipg, apd proper length. That the hemp THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR, 35 tnay be inspected and selected witbnut prejudice to eitlit-r pariyi there will be honest competent men from the east, who are fully acquainted with the qualiies of Russia Hemp, and more particularly that article the Government re- quires, whose hands it is to pass through before it will be paid (or. I conclude this subject with a conviction that this appeal will not be in vain, and that in three years the imcign article will be entirely exclu- ded fromour ports, and heavy exports made to Europe. And I will impress upon your minds the im- portance of adhering to these instructions; and when your hemp is ready for market, by calling upon Messrs. vV. VV. Thompson & Co., ol St. Louis, or the sub'criber, you can obtain any information in regard to the final dispo'ition. David Myerle, St. Louis, Mi. Washington City, April 8th, 1844. The following letter is submitted to the farm- ers of the West. The hemp named by the Su- perintendent, was raised by A. G. Porter, of Buchanan Couniy, Missouri. It was carefully preserved (after cutting) from the rains and dews, which discolor it. It was broke in small hands, which causes it to produce less tow. With a subsequent treatment I gave it, it pro- duced this result. Any farmer who will adhere to my instructions can produce the same with as little labor and expense as to do it otherwise. David Myerle, Saint Louis. U. S. Ropewalk, April i>th, 1844. Sir.-— Through your politeness I received, on the 2d instant, a copy of your circular to the hemp growers of the Western country, giving them general, and what I should think, very ac- curate directions for growing and preparing hemp. Your remarks on the drying of hemp in the shade that the essential oil may be re- tained, I conceive to be of the utmost impor- tance, for since hemp is a vegetable it is of great raiiment that the oil should be retained in order to prevent its rapid decay. I think from w'hat 1 have seen of the Ameri- can hem;' that the most of it has been dried in the sun by its being so very harsh and brittle. Your remarks on the sorting of it will be of great utility, as I have discovered clean out-shot and hall-clean all in the same bale, varying in length from 3 to G feet, which of course in hatch- eling, a large portion ol the hemp will be drawn out as tow, therefore there should be as much uniformity as possible in the length of the heads, by so doing it will be an advantage to the one who sells as well as to the one who buys. In regard to the hemn raised by Mr. A. G Potter, of the Stneol Missouri, much credit, as you observe, is certainly due him in the pre- paration of his hemp, not that the strength is greater than the mo'-t of American hemp, but fur its being so well cleaned of the wood par- ticles and d the tow, and also for Us b ing of good c I ir an I properly packed and uniform in its lengih, and when the Western hemp is all prepared like it, then tnere will be no fear of sending it to any market, as it will compete with the Russian in quality and in price I hope, "ir, vou will soon see vour labors crowned bv -seeing the American hemp used, not onlv in this c untrv. but in foreign countries also, which in my opinion will be the case, i( proper insiruetions are strictly adhered t >. Very respectfully, yourobed ent servant, Wm. tlABiN, Superiniendent. To David Mverle, Esq., WashinetoD,D C. Broom Corn --Large quantities of the br ish of broom corn, raised in tne valK^y of the Ohio and elsewhere, have been shipped to England witliiii thiee months past, together with tirourn ban lies, for the purpose ol manufacturing the brooms there. By managing in this way, vye understand that brooms can b- afforded cheaper in Great Britain, than il m .de here and then exfiorled. Prepare without delay for a vigorous spring campaign. From the Southern Agriculturist. Cultivation and Curing of Cuba Tobacco. Sir: — The following communication on the Cuba tobacco, is from a gentleman who has had opportunities of becoming thoiouglily ac- quainted with the mode of cultivating and cu- j ring the plant as practised in Cuba; and where I experience has enabled him to ascertain the mo lifications necessary to be adopted in trans ferriiig the culture to this country. It w'ill be perceived that Gen. H.-rnandez estimates the value of the tobacco, in Leaf, at 50 cents per lb. ; a higher price than it usually brings m our markets, where it is purchased for the purpose ol being used as 7i'm/ipe?sl orsegars; the fittings of wnich are generally of American or Virginia tobacco. It is well known, however, that the best tobacco raised in the island is never ex- ported, being reserved for the manufacture ol the celebrated Havana segars, after selling, as we have been informed, for more than a dollar a pound. As the tobacco raised and curea here, is considered by judges as no way interior to the best Havana, it would probably sell foreven a higher price than that estimated below, were it properly prepared for market according to the Cuba method. There can be no doubt but that this valuable plant may be easily added to the enriching sta- ples, and other numerous resources that form the golden fleece of the South. If is an ad- vantage of this culture that it affords an in- stance in which the manufacturingand agiicul- tural interests are happily combined, as its high- est profits can only be obtained by putting the tobacco into a wrought form, and making it in- to segars. The subjoined directions w'ill be found more specific and irinute, than any that have before been given to the public, and will, therefore, I hope, prove an acceptable contribution to the pa?es of the Agriculturist. With respect, your ob’t. serv’t., W. H. Simmons. COPY OF A LETTER from Jos. INI. Hernandez, Esq., to Dr. Wm II. Simmons, dated Mala-Compra, April 15, 1830. Dear Sir .-—I have delayed this communica- tion on the culture of Cuba tobacco longer than 1 ought, but as you are acquainted with the multi, diciiy of engagements that have constant- ly occupied rny attention, 1 trust that you will excuse me. The first thing to be considered in this, as in every oiher culture, is the soil, which for this kind or tobacco ought to be of rich sandy loam, neither too high or too low; that is, ground ca- llable of retaining moisture. The more level the better, and it possible, well pro'ected by margins. The next should be the selection of a spoi of ground to make the necessary beds. It would be preferable to make these on land newly cleared, or at all events when the land has not been seeded with grass; for grass seers springing up together with the tobacco, would injure it materially, as the grass cannot be removed without disturbing the K bacco plants. In preparing the ground for the nurse- ries, break it up properly, grub up all the stamps, dig out the roots, and carefully remove them with the hard; this being done, make the beds from three to four inches high, ol a reasonable lenvth and foin three to three and a half feet broad, so s to enable th-^ hands at arms-length, to weed ont the tender young plants with the fingers Iro 11 both sides of the bed, and keep t iem perfectly clean 1 he months of December and January are the most proper for sowing the seed In this country* -some per"ons sneak of planting it as early a.s the month of November. 1 am, how^- ever, of opinion that about the latier part of De cember is the best time to sow tobacco seed; anv sooner would expose the plants to suffer from the inclemency of the most severe part of onr winter season. Before the seed is sown, lake some dry trash aipl burn it off upon the nur"ery beds, to destroy insects and grass seeds; ’ Florida. then take one ounce of tobacco seed and mix it with about a quart of dry ashes, so as to sepa- rate the seed as much as possible, and sow it bioadcast. Alter the seed has been thus sown, ihe surface of the bed ought to be raked over slightly, and.trodden upon by the loot, carrying the whole w’eight of the body with it, that the ground may at once adhere closely to the seed, and then water it. Should the nuisery beds ap- parently diy from blighting winds or other cau- se.s, watering will be absolu ely necessary: for the ground is to be kept in a moist state from the tune the seed is planted until the young plants are large enough to be set out. The nurseries being made, proceed to prepare the land where the tobacco is to be set out. il the land is newly cleared, (and ne.\ land is proba- bly more favorable to the production of this plant than it is to that of any other, both as re- gaids quality and quantity,) remove as many of the stumps and roots as possible, and dig up the ground in such a manner as to render the surlace perfectly loose; then level the ground, and in this slate leave it until the nursery plants have acquired about one-half the growth neces- •sary to admit of their being set out. T. en break up he ground a second time in the same manner as at first, as in this way all the small fibres of roots and their rooty parts will be more or less separated, and thus obviate much of that degree ol spunginess so common to new land, and which is, in a great measure, the cause of new landselaoni producing well the first year, as the soil does not lay close enough to the roots of the plants growing in it; so that a shower of rain produces no other effect than that ol remo- ving the earth still more from them. Should the land be such as to admit of being worked with the plow, it ought certainly to be preferred to the common hoe. The plow, however, should be excluded alter the plants are set out. The ground having been piepared and pro- perly levelled off, and the plants sufficiently grown to be taken up, say to the size of good cabbage plants, take advantage of the first w'et or cloudy weather to commence setting them out. This should be done with great care, and the plants put single at equal dis'ances; that is about three leet north and south, and two and a half or two and three-fouiths feet east and west. They are placed thus close to each other, to prevent the leaves growing too large. The direction of the rows, however, should al- ter according to the situation of the land, where it has any inclination the widest space should run across it, as the beds will have to be made so as to prevent the soil from being washed from the routs by rain, when bedded; but, where the land is rather level, the three feet rows should be norih and south, so as to give to the plants a more full effect on them by passing across the beds, than by i rossing them in an oblique di- rection To set the plants out regularly, take a task line of 105 feet in length, with a pointed stick three leet long at ea< h end ol it, then insert a small piece of rag or something else through the line at the distance ol two feet and ihree- lounhs from each other, place it north and south, (or as the land may require,) at full length, and then set a plant at every division ; carefully keeping the bud ol the plant above the surlace groun l. Then remove the line three leet irom the first row, and so on until the plant- ing is completed. Care ought to be taken to lirevent the stretching of the line from mispla- cing the plants. In this way the plants can be easily set out, and a proper direction given to ttiem both ways. In taking the plants up from the nursery, the ground should be first loosened with a fl it piece of wood or iron, about an inch broad; then carelully holding the leaves closed to wards each other, between the fingers, draw them up and place them in a basket or some other convenient thing, to receive them for plant- ing. After taking up those which can be plant- ed during the day, water the nursery, that the eanh may again adhere to the remaining ones. The evening is the best time foi setting out the plants, but where a large field has to be cultiva- ted. it will be well to plant both morning and evening. The plants set out in the morning, 38 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. unless in rainy or cloudy weather, should be covered immediately, and the same should he done with those planted the evening previous, should the day open wiih a clear sunshine— the palmetto leal answers this purpose very well. There should be water convenient to the plants, so as to have them watered morning and eve ning, uuiii they have taken root.* They should also be closely examined y/hen watered, so as to replace such plants as should happen to die, that the ground may be properly oceupied, and that all the plants may ripen as nearly together as possible. From the time the plants are set out, the earth round them should be occasionally stirred both with the hand and hoe. At first hoe flat, but as soon as the leaves assume a growing dis- position, begin gradually to draw a slight bed towards the plant. The plant must be closely examined, even while in the nursery, to destroy the numerous worms that feed upon them ; some, by cutting the stalks and knawing the leaves when first set out — the.'^e resemble the grub worm, and are to be found near the injured plant .under ground ; others which come from the eggs deposited on the plant by the butterfly, end feed on the leaf, grow to a very large size and look very ugly, and are commonly called the tobacco worm. There is also a small worm, which attacks the bud of the plant, and which is sure destruction to its lurther growth; and some again, though less destructive, are to be seen within the two coats ot the leaf; feeding, as it were on the juices alone. The worm- ing should be strictly attended to every morning and evening, until the plants are pretty well grown, when every other day will be sufficient. The most proper persons tor worming are either boys or girls from ten to fourteen years of age. They should be made to come to the tobacco ground early in the morning, and be led by in- ducements, (such as giving a trifling rewaid to those who will bring the most worms,) to worm it properly. Grown persons would find it rather . too tedious to stoop to examine the under part of every leaf, and seek the worm under ground; nor would they be so much alive to the value of a spoonful of sugar, or other light reward. Besides, where the former would make this seargh a matter of profit and pleasuie, it would to the Jatter prove only a tedious and irksome occupation. Here I will observe, that it is for siretilar reasons that the culture ot the Cuba to- bacco plant more properly belongs to a white population, for there are few plants requiring more attention and tender treatment than it does, indeed it will present a sorry appearance, un- less the eye of its legitimate proprietor is con- stantly watching over it. When the plants have acquired from twelve to fourieen gopd leaves, and are about knee high, it may be well to begin to top them, by nipping off the bud with the aid of the finger, t taking care not to destroy the small leaves im- mediately near the bud : for if the land is good and the season favorable, those very small ton leaves will in a short time be nearly as large, amd ripen as soon as the lower ones, whereby two or four more leaves may be saved; thus obtaining from sixteen to eighteen leaves in the place of twelve or fourteen, which is the general average. As the topping of the tobacco plant is all essential in order to promote the growth, and to equalize the rif>ening of the leaves, I would observe that this operation should at all events commence the instant that the bud of the plant shows a disposition to go to seed, and be immediately followed by removing the suckers, which it will now put out at every leaf. Indeed the suckers should be removed from the plant as often as they appear. The tobacco plant ought never to be cut be fora it comes to lull maturity, which is known by the leaves becoming mottled, coarse, and of a thick texture, and gummy to the toucn; at ■ It is he.yce generally necessary that wells should be sunk at convenient distances through the field. ,t Washing the hands after this, in water, is necessa- ry as theacridjuic.es of the plants, otheiwise, soon prepuce a soreness cf the fingers. which time iheend of the leaf, by being doubled, will break short, which it will not do to the same extent when green. It ought not to be cut in wet weather, when the leaves lose theij natural gummy substance, so necessary to be pre.served. About this period the cultivator is apt to be rendered anxious by ihe lear of al- lowing tbe plants to remain in the field longer than necessary, until experience removes these apprehenidons: he should be on his guard, however, not to destroy the quality ot his to- bacco, by cutting it too soon. When the cut- ting is to commence, there should be procured a quantity of foiked stakes, set upright, with a pole or rider selling on each fork, ready tc sup- port the tobacco, and to keep it from the ground. The plant is then cut obliquely even wdth the surface of the ground, and the person thus em- ployed should s'rike the lower end of the stalk two or three times with the blunt side of his knife, so as to cause as much ot the s-ind or sod to lall from it as possible ; then tying two stalks together, they are gently placed across the ri ders or poles prepared to receive them. In this state they are allowed to remain in the sun or open air, until the leaves have somewhat wilt- ed, whereby they will not be liable to the injury which they would otherwise receive it they came suddenly in contact with other bodies, when fresh cut. Then place as many plants on each pole or rider as may be conveniently car- ried, and take them into the drying house, where the tobacco is strung off upon the frames pre- pared for it, leaving a small space between the two plants, that air may circulate freely among them, and promote their drying. As the drying advances, the stalks are brought closer to each other, so as to make room for those which yet remain to be housed. In drying the tobacco, all damp air should be excluded, nor ought the drying ol it to be pre- cipitated by the admission of high drying winds. This process is to be promoted in the most mo- derate manner, except in the rainy season, when the sooner the drying is effected the better, for it is a plant easily affected by the changes ol the weather, alter the drying commences. It is then liable to mildew in damp weather, whicn is when the leaf changes from its original color to a pale yellow cast, and from this, by parts, lo an even brown. When the middle stem is per- fectly dry, it can be tqken dpwn, and the leaves stripped Irom the stalk and put in bulk to sweat; that is, to make tobacco ot them ; for before this process, when a concentration o! its beticr quali- ties takes place, the leaves are always liable u- be effected by the weather, and cannot well be considered as being any thing else than com- mon dry leaves, partaking of the nature of to- bacco, but not actually tobacco. The leaves are to be stripped from the stalks in damp or cloudy weather, when they are more easily ban- died, and the separation of the different quali- ties rendered also more easy. The good leaves are at this time kept by themselves, for wrap- pers or caps, and ihe most delective ones lor Jil lings or strips. When the tobacco is put in bulk, the sterns of the leaves should all be kept in one direction, to facilitate the tying of them in hanks; alterwards make the bulk two or three feet bish, and of a proportionate circum- ference. To guard against theleaves becoming overheated, and to equalize the fermentation or sweating, after the first twenty-four hours place the outside leaves in ifie c,eiure, and those of the centre to the outside of the bulk. By doing ihis once or twice, and taking care to cover fl'e bulk either with sheets or blankets, so as to exclude all air from it, and leaving it in this state tor about forty days, it acquires an odor strong enough to produce sneezing, and the other qua- lities of cured tobacco. The process of curing may then be considered as completed. I'hen take some of the most injured leaves, but of ihe best quality, and in proportion to the quality of tobacco madoj and place them in clear water, there let them remain until they rot, which they will do in about eight days; then break open your bulks, .spread the tobacco w ilh the stems jji ope directioji, and dampen them with this water in a gentle manner, that it may not soak through the leaf; for in ihi-- case the leaf would rot * Then tie them in hanks of from twenty- five to thirty leaves ; this being done, spread the plants in the tobacco house for about twelve hours, lo air them, that the dampness may be removed, and afterwards pack them in casks or barrels and head them tight, until you wish to manufacture them. The object of dampening the tobacco with ifiis water, is to give it elasti- city, to promote its ouming free, to increase its iragrance, to give it an aromatic smell, and to keep it always soft. This is the great secret of curing tobacco for segars properly, and for ■ hich we are indebted to the people of Cuba, who certainly understand the mode of curing this kind of tobacco better than any other peo- ple. It is to them a source of greai wealth, and may be made equally so to us. We can have here three cuttings from the original plant — the last cutting will be ot rather a weak quality, but which, nevertheless, will be agreeable to those who confine their smoking to weak to- bacco. In ratooning the plant, only one sprout ought to be allowed to grow, and Ihis from those most deeply rooted— all other sjirouts ought to be de- stroyed. The houses necessary for the curing of tobac- co ought to be roomy, with a passage W'ay run- ning through the centre, from one extremity of the building to the other, and pierced on both sides with sufficient number ot doors and win- dows, to make them perfectly airy. In addilion to what I have said respecting the mode of cultivating and treating the tobacco plant, I have lurther lo state, that once the plant is allowed to be checked in its growth, it never again recovers it. That in promoting the dry- ing of the leaf, fire should not be resorted to, be- cause the smoke would impart to it a flavorthat would injure that of the tobacco itself. In order to obtain vigorous plants, the seed ought to be procured from the original stalk, and not from the ratoons, by allow ing some of them to go to seed lor that express purpose. In Cuba the seed is most generally saved from the ratoon plants, but we should consider that that climate and soil are probably more (avorable to the production of this plant than ours, and consequently, we ought to confide in the best seed, which is had from the original stalk. All plants have their peculiar empire, never- theless we should not be deterred from planting Cuba tobacco here, for even should we be com- pelled to import the seed every third vear, which would be as often as necessary, it would still prove a profitable culture. Taking 600 lbs., which is the average product per acre, it would yield, (if well cured,) at 50 cents per lb., $'3()0 in the leaf. The following exhibits the profit to be derived from it when manufactured into segars: 600 lbs . atlowingS lbs. to 1000, would produce 75.000 spgars, which, at ®10per 1000 750 CO Cost of ih- leaf 300 00 Worth of manufacture at ®'2 50 per 1000. . 137 50 — 487 5Q Difference fa fa'^ur of I he manufacturer,. . . .®262 CO This amount being the profits of the manu- facturer alone, the profit to him who would corn- bin- both pursuits woidd be more ihan doubled. As to the quantity of land which can be cul- tivated to the hand, there is some difference in the practice of planters^ however, I think that I am within the usual calculation in saying, that an acre and a halt would not exceed the quantity that an able hand can gasily cultivate and manage properlv. I am, with respect, your obd’t. serv’t., Joseph M. Hernandez. N. B — I have omitted to state the cost of the segar boxes, which of course has also to be de- ducted. This would vary according to the fa- cility of i.btaining materials, but probably would not exceed 25 cents per box. * Sponge is used in Cuba for this delicate operation. Speak not unless you can benefit ( ihers or yourself; and avoid trifling conversation. THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. a? From the So. ’solved, That the Report of the Cuairaiitee on Manures, ihis day read, be communicated to the Stale Ai^ricultural Society, to be read be- foie that body. — From 'he Minutes. H. W. Rayenel, Sec’ry. REPORT. The Committee on Alanures, in pursuance ot the Resolution under which they are required, at the mil meeting ol the Society, to report, con- cerning “the best and most economicai mode ot collecting and preparing manures; the time and manner oi their application ; the adaptation ot certain manures to certain crops, with a detail- ed account ot all experiments on the subject, which have been caretully conducted and the results accurately noted;” beg leave to ob- serve, that the wide range of duty committed to them requires more time than has elapsed since their appointment. Sensible, however, of the vast importance of the subject, they have entered seriously and faithfully into the dis- charge of their duty, and offer the following as a Report only in part : It is due, however, to the Society, to premise that the direction which has been given to our labors, is one which can hardly be said to be comprehended in the resolution under which this report is presented. Believing, however, that the points to which we are desirous of drawing the attention of the Society, are of vital importance to our interests, we offer no apology lor our ap- parent deviation from the letter of'the :hart laid down for our governance. It is but a very few years since, within the limits of this Society, the benefits of manures were mooted at e ery social meeting; and even now, though no one is so outwardly heietical as to question their ability, there are yet many who have derived so little practical benefit from their application, that their faith in their efficacy, is rather a confi lence in the testimony ol others, than the result of their own observation and ex- perience. Believing firmly as we do, that on the judi- cious use ol manures, depends the prosperity, not only of our Society, but ot our State, we have devoted our labors to an investigation of the causes ot the failures of manures, and have endeavored, with the aid of our piesent state of knowledge, to point out the remedies. The great object of all farmers, both practical and theoretical, has been to accumulate and be- stow'upon the land a quantity ol animal and ve- getable matter, in the state of progressive decom- position, This manure, called compost, has been for many years the only sort applied to cotton husbandry in ihf inland disiricts. Its value de- pends upon its origin; that from the stable be- ing always much more highly esteemed than that from the cuw'-pgn. These w'ere the ma- nures universally applied to all soils, whatever their condition. Limited, how'ever, as was the range of our manuring resources, our know- lede ot the soil as cultivated, was, and even now is, still more contracted. No idea what ver was entertained of their chemical composition. A brief inquiry into their physical condition was all the investigation bestowed upon them. A new light has recently dawned upn us; and it becomes us peculiarly as cultivators ol pro- ducts unknown to other portions ol Caucasian civilization, to embrace and improve it to the highest possible d gree. This light is the tho- rough application of chemistry to agriculture. The cultivators of other pro ducts have for their guides the experience of ages, and of the whole extent ot civilization. VVe stand, as agricultu- rists, isolated from ihe mass ol mankind; their practice is to us a mystery, their experience to us useless. Let us hail, then, as the opening of a ne w era in mr agriculture, the scientific dis- coveries which enable us to apply to practical farming the mysteries of the laboratory. The doctrine of the necessity ol furnishing fo plants, either as native constituents uf the soil on which they are required to grow', or in lorm of manure, c/Z the componenis,,boih organic ami inorganic, of which they are constituted, and which are necessary to their healthf ul existence, was fiist di'-tinctly announced by Liebig, the fiublication ol Whose.Cook torms an interesiing epoch in the history ol agriculture. But whilst announcing the important fact, he seems to have regarded it rather as an axiom, incontrovertible, than as a new trutli whose importance was to have been enforced upon the attention of agri- culturists. Hence most readers ol his w'oik are conscious ol no operation of husbandry so important as the collection and supply ol nitr-o- gen to plants. Indeed the philosopher seemKto snuff ammonia in every breeze. All the plea- sing impressions w'hich others derive from the sight ol a herd of cattle going to market, are lost to his imagination. He sees in them nothing but a mass ol nitrogen unfairly abstracted from its native soil; and w’hen man himself has fi- nished his work and given up the ghost, hisonly concern is that the nitrogen ol his composition is laid down too low to be made available to ve- getation. Bullet us do justice to Liebig. He is not one-sided in hia views. He dwells, it is true, particularly upon one subject, but his love of a theory does not lead him to strain every point to susiain his views. Another class of philoso- phers have ridden a hobby which they call geim, to which they attribute all the virtues of manures. It would be best, we think, before going into the modus operandi ol manures, to in- quire first into the whole condition of the pro- ducts of the soil, — let us first know what they are, and we shall be unfortunate indeed, it we do not find out wbat is good fur them. It is one ol the blessings wherewith our lot is tempered, that all genuine v.'ork, all honest la- bor, is productive. 80 we have been benefiued by every class of philosophers who have applied their industry to the consideration of agricul- ture. VVe are still hampered in our re.^ean hes afier truth, by the obtrusion of their fancilul theories; but a mass ol light has been shed on the subject, from which we are confident of de- riving vast benefit. All plants, we may say all vegetable products, are composed of carbon, hydrogen and oxygen ; in addition to these, some have nitrogen. Ol these constituents, the soil is composed chiefly of carbonaceous matter; the atmosphere we breathe consists of oxygen and nitrogen in a state of meciianical combination; and v'ater is the chemical union of hydrogen with oxygen. Thus it IS obvious, the sources of these organic constituents are inexhaustible. But there is another portion of vegetables which has hither- to b en overlooked. It is the incombustible or inorganic structure; that which after co nbus- tion remains in the lorm of ashes, and to which the general and unsalistactory name of salts is applied. Now, in our system ot making ma- nures, we have regard chiefly to the collection of organic matter, and we are surprised and dis- appointed when the application of this matter fails to produce the required effect. Vve shall try to show that the cause of this failure is to be attributed to 014? n -glict in providing for the in- organic constituents of the plants loe cultivate. It IS a rule which cannot now be disputed, that wherever the analysis of a vegetable product yields, as a constant quality, an inorganic con- stituent, how. ver small, such inorganic body is ab- solutely necessary to the heallkfiil condition of the plant; and it will follow, as a necessary conse- quence of this '•ule, that wherever the soil on which it is attempted to cultivate a plant, is desti- tute of any one of its invrganic constituents, it will be vain to attempt to grow ih” plant upon it. If the material exist in loo small a qunntiiy in tne soil, the crop will be correspondingly short and siclfly. Regarding this rule as an axiom in enlighten- ed agriculture, w'e shall draw a tew practical re- sults therefrom, in relation to our own pursuits. The first step necessary towards productive agriculture, and one which falls within the pro- vince ol our agricultural Societies, is to have vigorous and accurate analysis made, not only of the crops we cultivate, hut of the soils on which we raise them, and of me manures which we employ in their cultivation. Our own Society has the honor of having made one of the first moves in this enterprise, and has furnished an analysis of her principal products. As cotton is our staple, we have de- voted this Report exclusively to a consideration of manures suitable for its production. In the analysis ol this product, including the wool and the seed, we find the following inorganic consti- tuents: Carbonate of Potash, with Sulphate of Potash, traces of Soda. Chloride of Potassium. Phosphate of Lime, with Chloride of Magnesium, traces of Magnesia. Sulphate of Lime. Cai donate of Lime. Phosphate of Potash Carbonate ofjMagnesia. Oxide of Iron and Manga Silita nese. Alumina. Ur, by reducing these compounds to simple forms, we find, in the indestructible portion of cotton, potash, lime, magnesia, silica, alu- mina, sulphur, phosphorus, chlorine, iron, and manganese. This is the general result ol the analysis, made lor this Society by Professor Shepard. As the same general result was ob- tained by Dr Ure’s analysis, we have every reason to believe that the before named ingre- dients are all necessary to the perfect develop- ment of cotton. Let us now examine the ma- terial or soil upon which, and the tools or ma- nures with which, we operate. The analysis ol our soils is yet to be made. The Agricultural Society of St. John’s Colle- ton, enjoys the honor of having taken the lead of her sister Societies in this enterprise. She has furnished an analysis of six specimens of soils taken from a cotton plantation on Edisto Island, of which the following is the general re- sult: Silica, alumina, peroxide of iron, carbonate of lime, and phosphate of lime. It would thus appear that the soil of Edisto Lsland is deficient in four of the nine inorganic (constituents ol cotton, viz: potash, magnesia, sulphur, and chlorine. It is to be observed, however, respecting this analysis, that it was made before the publica- tion of Liebig’s vvork on Agricultural Chemis- t.'v, and belore the important doctrine, laid down in this report, was even partially recognized. It was made loo, at a time when the attention of our planters was just beginning to be directed to- wards the use of lime; and the respectable che- mist, by whom the analysis was made, aimed rather to establish the amount of lime existing in the soil, than to demonstrate rigorously all the material, or, as they were then considered, the immaterial parts of which it is composed. Among the soils sent for analysis was a spe- cimen ol marsh mud, mat agent which has so Nignally contributed to renovate the soils of the iffands on our coast. Its component parts aji- pear to be silica, hornblende, feldspar, alumi- na, iron, lime, and phosphorus. The horn- blende and feldspar ot this mud furnish potash, lime, soda, magnesia, manganese, and fluorine ; so that with the aid of this manure, the soil is furnished with every constituent of cotton ex- cept chlorine and sulphur. It is difficult, how- ever, to conceive how either of these elements can be absent f om a mud. which is twice daily flowed with sea water. It is rather to be sup- posed that they are not enunierated, as being too, obvious to require a special miice. Having now ascertained, as lar as checaical operations have gone, the general composition ofour cotton, and the soils upon which, we raise it, let us now inquire what are the ingredients wherewith we propose to amend our soils, so as to increase their productiveness,. The cow-pen and stable havehliherto furnish- ed all our manures. The droppings of our cat- tle and horses mixed up with the leaves of trees form our composts. Of these, the product of the stable is generally found to be beneficial, while that of the co.w-.pen is often of so little va- 38 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. lue as to discourage the planter in tiis efforts to obtain it. One of the most successlul planters in this Society has declared, that for many years past, he has ceased to perceive any improvement in his crops Irom the use ot cow-pen manure. The stalks have indeed increased to a large size, but they either produce little Iruit, or fail to mature a good crop. It is obvious from this result, that there can be no want of nitrogenized matter in the manure, or it would not promote rank vegetation. The defect must lie in its inorga- nic constituents, and we may, by comparing the analysis of cotton and of our manures, find wherein the deficiency exists. Let it be remem- bered, however, that we are hampered in our reasonings by the want of full information which it is the province of the chemist alone to give. Dr. Ure gives the following as the result of his analysis of cow dung: lime, phosphate of lime, magnesia, iron, alumina, silica, mu riate, and sulphate of potash— in other words, all the inorganic constituents of cotton. It is to be remarked, that though all the ingredients are there, yet some exist in almost infinitessimal quantities. Thus, all the ehloritie, sulphur, and potash, in 34 lbs. of dried cow dung, amount altogether to about J9 ounces, while the amount of potash alone in a thousand pounds of cotton in the seed, is equivalent to five pounds. Now a good crop of cotton in the limits of this Soci- ety, not unfrequenlly yields a thousand pounds of cotton in the seed, or five pounds of potash, on two acres of land. Let us now suppose a liberal supply of compost bestowed upon two acres. If we say a hundred loads of manure to the two acres, we will far ex eed the average amount of manuring. Another liberal allow- ance would be the supposition of the presence of the equivalent of three bushels of thoroughly dried cow dung in each load of compost, and the measure of our liberality will be filled to over- flowing, if we suppose each bushel to weigh fifty pounds. Now, the 15,000 lbs. of cow dung, which is thus applied to the two acres, contain but five pounds of sulphur, ch'orine, and potash together, whereas the cotton to be obtaine : Irom the two acres, would require five pounds of po- tash alone. It is obvious, theretore, that if the soil is wanting in these ingredients, the crop of cotton to be obtained by this manuring must fall far short of an average good one, and this becomes' perceptiblv so, when it is recollected that the whole amount of manure is not con- sumed in a season, but that its effects are con- tinued for several years.* It is but just to observe that the urine of the cow, yields by analysis a larger proportional quantity of these necessary ingredients in which the dung is deficient But this advantage is hardly compensated when we reflect that in a thousand parts of this excrement all the saline ingredients together do not constitute a fiftieth portion. Chemistry has revealed the composi'ion of the excrements of the cow, a manure which we find decidedly inferior in value to that of the horse. We have not, however, the same accu- curate analysis ot these last to enable us to com- pare them rigorously. We must use the lis-ht we have so far as it goes, and trust to logical deductions for some of the conclusionsto which v;e shall arrive. And in the first place, chemists differ very materially in the partial analysis which they have made of horse dung. Macaireand Mar- cet found 27 per cent ot inorganic matter or salts, in that analyzed by them. Lie' ig admits that he has never found over 10 per cent, and Dr. Jackson, of Boston, somewhat under 8 per Since the above was wiitlen. we have seen Dr Da- vis’s statement, that the weight of cow dang, as evacu- ated, isjnst87 pounds. Now. if 83 per cent, of this be water, the al lowance of .'iO lbs , as the weight of the dry dung, is indeed an excess of liberality. The true weight of the dry dung is just 22 lbs and the qmntity necessa. y to equal 15.00 i lbs . would be 652 bushels. Compare this with the statement in the text, and we will see ho\y small a portion of these salts is conyeyed to the 5«il through the medium of cow dung. cent. These discrepancies stagger our laii.. in the partial results which have een produced. Suppose, however, the lowest to be the most accurate, and we have nearly four times the amount of inorganic matter in the excrements of a horse as in those of a cow. It is to be re- marked, also, that the p osphate of magnesia exists in a notable quantity in the dung of a horse, and is also a conspicuous constituent of cotton. The partial report of Dr. Jackson, how- ever, gives no potash nor sulphur whatever. This consideration alone induces uslo consider the analysis incomplete, and compels us in the absence of a rigorous analysis, to resort to the indications afforded by a logical investiga- tion. The cattle whose excrements have been sub- mitted to the test of analysis, are better treated in every respect than those from which we de- rive our manure. It is a common sense prin- ciple, and a rule in practical agriculture is based upon it in Europe, that the excrement of an animal shall bear a fair proportion to the food he eats. Ihus in the neighborhood of Hildeshrine, in Germany, the farmers pay a higher price for the excrements of Protestants than for those of Catholics, as those of the latter are impoverished by the numerous fasts enjoin- ed by the Church of Rome. The same must be true likewise of the lower animals. In Eu- rope, where cattle constitute an important item in a farmer’s wealth, they are led with the most nutritious food which they are capable of di- gesting, and their excrements must par ake of the nature of their food. The clover and tur- neps which the happy cattle of that country consume, are rich in the most valuable inor- ganic constituents, and hold in large quantities potash, magnesia, sulphur, and phosphorus, and yet, with all Ihis advantage in pointof food, their excrements are inferior in value to those of the horse. Far greater then must be the dif- ference here, where ihe cow is left to her own ingenuity to draw her nourishment from the soil. The grasses abounding in phosphates are not found w'ith us, and it is more than pro- bable that the small quantity of earthy phos- phates they do contain, are all required to aid in the formation and support of the bones of the animal, leaving a very minute portion to pass out in the excretions. The horse on the contrary is as well fed here as in any part of Europe, perhaps (for w'e have not yet learned the economy ol farming) he is better ^ed. W e have therefore a right to expect to find in his excretions the constituents of maize, viz: potash, lime, phosphorus, magne sia, and sulphur, and the quantity ol sulphur will be sensibly increased when he is ted on peas. Moreover, his urine yields nearly five I er cent, of saline ingredients, while that ot a cow fails short of two. We can thus, by investigating the constitu- tion of the food which the two animals eat, dis- pense in a great measure with any particular analvsis of their excrements, and salelv come to the following conclusion : That the inorganic constituents of the excrements of a horse, are more than double in quantity to those ot the COW', and that while tho'e ot the latter consist chiefly of silicates, those of the former abound in the phosphates of lime and magnesia, two of the most important constituents of cotton. We would suggest therefore the propriety of improving the value of oui cow pen composts, by the admixture of certain mailers of known utility, and either cheap, it purchased with mo ney, or easily accessible to every cotton plan- ter. And in the first place, we would recommend the addition of a bushel ot gypsum for every acre which it is intended to cover with the com- post. The advantage of this mixture is a double one. In the first place, we add to the manure both lime and sulphuric acid, substances which perform important functions, not only in the growth of cotton, but of every crop we cultivate ; and, in the second place, we prevent the evapo- ration of the amtnoniacal gases which have al- ways a temlency to escape during the piogress of decomposition. A strong prejudice prevails in many parts of South Carolina against the use of gypsum, and this prejudice is strengthened by the considera- tion that it was imported largely for the sake ol its supposed fertilizing properties, and failed. But it should be remembered that, at that time, the use of any manure was a blind practice, equivalent to quackery; that from the use of gypsum, unaided by other agents, all virtues were expected; that it was used as a panacea tor all agricultural evils, and that disappoint- ment was the natural consequence of such un- reasonable practices and hopes. And yet, with all the odium attached to its memory, we have heard of some singularly favorable results at- tending its use. Among others, we have heard that the late Thomas Palmer, Esq., from his plantation in St. Stephens,lheaverage production of w hich was 60 lbs. of cotton per acre, obtain- ed one year, with the aid ol gypsum, an ave- rage of 120 lbs. Il subsequent experiments re- sulled in failures, this may be accounted for in a variety of ways; the gypsum may (as lime will do) have exhausted the soil; this is no mystery in countries where lime is used; the seasons may have been unpropiiious. And it may be true, that in the absence of any marked beneficial result, our planters may have been discouraged, and seized gladly any pretext lor saving their money and avoiding a labor to which they were unaccustomed. Ol all men in the world, agriculturists are the most unwilling to follow improvements in their profession, and the readiest to discover the inability of those suggested. Our planters long since knew that lime was used in their very neighborhood with favorable results, but it requited the energy and fire ot a Ruffin to make the adoption of its use general. In addition to the gypsum, we would recom- mend that all the spare cotton seed should be cast upon the compost heap. It is needless to dwell, betore this Society, upon the inestimable value of this manure. We would only suggest that the cow-pen would be materially improved, while the coiton seed would be permitted to be spread profitably, though in small quan'ities, over a much greater surface than they could be if applied in the u'-ual vvay. Lastly, we would pertect the compost by the addition of ashes. There is no manure, coiton seed perhaps excepted, which, applied singly to land, proriucessuch strikingresults. The ashes of the oaK, though most acce.' of ex- istence, itnd is said to be rich in po'ash. it is to be regretted tliat Mr. AlaZ;, ck dib not accu- rately observe the quantity applied to Ins land; and it is rather toe early in the season tor us to be furnished with 'he lesults of his eXjieriment. At that late period of the summer, however, a practical eye can judge wttb tolerable accuracy what the result will be. It required but a glance to convince us, that the cotton manured with gieen sand was worth ihrdc-fold the best portion ol' his crop not so manured; We can give no better idea of iis appearance than by eomp iring it to a pyramid of luxuriant vegeta- tion, ri'ing so abruptly Irom out uf the rest of the cotton, as to be at a glance obvious to the most carele.ss spectator; and the quantity and maturity of the li utc corresponded with the lux- uriance ul the plant. Less striking in appearance on that same day was a field at Somerton, manured with twenty loads ol cow-pen compusi, and twenty bushels of ashes per acre. Buteven this small quanti- ty of ashes caused such a ditrerence in the growth and maturity of the cotton as to be easi- ly di'-tinguished from that which had none. A part of the result ol the experiment at Somer- toD IS known, and corroborates ouropiniun that ashes should be mingled with the compost. At the second picking ul' cotton, before the middle of September, four hundred pounds per acre of cotton in the seed were harvested from that por- tion which had ashes, li is but just, hotvever, to observe, that in mis case the ashes formed no portion of the compost; they were spread upon the list; the compost placed under. One of the Committee has recently seen a crop of cotton in St. Andrew’s Parish, w'tiich he thinks would be estimated at too Iowa rate at a thousand pounds of seed cotton per acre. This result was effected by using the fine particles of compost at the bottom of the manure heap. In this case the active particles ol the compost heap were concentrated at the bottom; for they always have a tendency to descend, being car- ried down, partly in a state ol solution, partly by the mechanical action of rains. The result of these three instances are with us conclusive, that the oxtinn of inanwes is directly in pro- portion to the amount and quality nf their inor- i;o^>iic constituents, o.nd that, to the collection of these, the planter should mainly direct his atten- tion. Ottering the accompanying Resoltiilons, as necessary to carry into operation the principles of this Report, w'e shall no longer trespass upon the patience of the S. »ciely. In behalf ol the Coinmiitee. Fred. A. Porcher. RE^sOLUTIONS OF THE COM.MITTEE 0 \ M V- NURB.S. 1. That it b-^ reccm iiended to the Society to appropriate adequa'e I'urids to the accom lish- mentoi a ihoiongh analysis of all the products of our soils, ol our soil^ themselves, and of our manures. 2 That we earnestly recommend to our sis- ter Societies throughout the State, to contribute to a similar analysis of iheir soils and produc- tions. 3. Thapthe Representatives to the L 'gisla- tnre from these parishes, be respectfully request- ed to urge upon their respective h mses the ne- ce.'sity and expediency ol perfecting ihe Agri culiuial Survey ol the State, so happily begun. Note. — A few observations are yet necessa- ry to perlecT the report, which has grown under our hands, to an unexpected length. It will be observed, that we have taken no notice what- evt r of the amount ol inorganic matter existing in the litter with which our compo l is mane. As this is an equal quantity in both sorts of compost, it cannot, as a general rule, material- ly affect the relative value of either. With re- spect to what has been said in the earlier part of the rep'irr r' spi-cti' g' the 'heories of the r'h^>- mists, we cheerfully acknowledge our utihiness to sii m ju.gmeiil up>m their mei its. 'vVedo know, iiovvever, when they give us saiisfaeiury replies to our queries, and we are iiaintully con- .s 'ious v'.iieri tliey fail to answer us; ami the w^.rst Ol it luo is, that they undertake to speak a language intelligible to every iarmer. Now in our humble judgment, when a farmer consults a book pur ly scientific, lor information rela live 10 his prole.-.^ion, he e.x peels to find the lan- guage uf science, and is generally prepared to meet it. Now, uhai can be more unsatisfac- tory than the following. We inquired into the composition of ctiw dung. Dr. Dana says, “ 1 give you tbe result ol my analysis of cow liung in such terms as ihe farmer may comprehend ; water 83 60; hay 14; biliarv matiei (rule resin, fat and green lesin of hay) 1.275; geine com- bined viih potash, (vegetable extract,) 0.95 ; albumen, 0. 175 ” It the farmer may compie- hend thi'^, may he not equally comprehend th'=‘ results ol a desiru' ti ve analysis 1 Is it not like- ly that the farmer would better appreciate the value ol sMica, alumina, lime, magnesia, &c., than of this mysterious geine which is thus forced upon his attention 1 Particularly when he is told that all these are constituent portions of the crop he cttl ivaies. Let the chemist use the language of his profes.?ion, and give the re- sult of his labors, and the farmer will thank him. From the Louisville Journal. Close Plaiitiug of Corn— An lixperiment. Gentlemen: — I beg leave to offer to your con- sideration the reMilt of an experiment made during the present year, to ascertain the advan- tages of planting corn more closely than has generally been practised; and the nu nber of stalks which should be lelt in each hill at the different distances at which it is planted. The experiment was made on ground which had been cleared in 1810. In its natural state it was as rich as the best Kentucky lands, and its fer- tility had been pieseived by a due proportion of grass crops, but it had had no manure. In the spring of the year 1841 the field was sowed with red clover, among growing wheat. In 1842 and 1843 the clovtr was pa.stured, and late in the fall the ground was well turned over, by a well constructed plow?. Early in April of the present year, the grou d w'as aaain plowed, harrowed, and laid off and planted on the 12th of that month. On one side of the field, intended for hemp, 1 causeu lour acres to be laid off) in an obluns square, as follows: First, the long u’ay exactly three and a half feet; and then at right angles, four leet ; one acre three and a hall feet; one acre three feet; and one acre two and a hall leet. In due time 1 thinned the tnree first acres to three stalks in a hill, and the fourth to two stalks in a hill. Supposing the hills each to have tiie number intended, ihe number ol stalks on each acre wouU have been c.s fol- lows : 1 acre 3^ by 4 feet.. 9.335 stalks 2 acres 3.J by 3^ leet 10,068 “ 3aciesc| by 3 feel 12,fl7 “ 4 acres 3| by 1^ leet 9,956 “ The season up to the 2d ol July wms tolera- bly favorable, though there w'as loo much rain fora first-rate crop of corn. For two weeks succeeding no rain lell. During this period the atmosphei was dry and w indy. As the coin was generally getting into silk when this druug t commenced, and as this is the pe- riod when com requires much rain to make it ear well, it suffereil very much. Ahhough light rains again lell Irom ihe middle of July to the last of that month tney came too late to be ma- terially beneficial lu early planted corn. The consequence was that scarcely a stalk jiroduced more than cne ear, and even that one of dimi- nished size. 1 am fully persuaded that the dry w'eather, in the first half of July, diminished the crop at least fiity per cent. The crop was also some w hard i minished by great numbers of crows on-*ning and nicking off thegiainsatthe small end of the ear, when la the milk state. The coin was gatbered, and eacti acre separately '.leasiired, about the first of INuvember, when perfectly diy, and the quantity produced was as follows : The first acre 68 bushels, second acre 69 bushels, -third acre 69 bushels, and fourth acre 77i bushels. The ground throughout lays equally well, and was ol the same qualilv, but the first acre was rather the most injured by the crows, it will be seen that the acre, planted three and a half by lour feet, produced nearly as well (per- haps quite, making a due allowance for the in- jury received) as the two next acres. That the acre having 12,447 stalks produced only the same number ol bushels as that having 10,668. And that the acre having two stalks m the hill, and 9,956 in the whole, produced eight and a half bushels more than either of the others. From this experiment it wmuld seem that, in grounti of the best quality, where three stalks are intended to be lelt in a hill, the distance each w'ay should not be less than three and a hall leet: and that, where it is intended to plant more closely, not more than two stalks should be left in a hill. The acre planted three and a half by two and a half feet produced decidedly the best, but it was loo close one w'ay to be plow'ed conveniently. Thus plantedthere were eight and three-quarters square feet to each liill. If planted three leet each way thqre would be nine square feet to eac^^ hill. This, I am ol opinion, would be the belter way to plant, where it is intended to leave two stalks in a hill, as the distance each way would be more convenient for plowing, and the number of stalks per acre would be but slightly diminished. As our corn crops are affected by so many contingencies, a single experiment is not very Cl nclusive in favor of any particular theory, I intend, if I am spared, lo repeat my experiment next year on the same ground, except that I will lay off the ground the lung way, three feet, and in the other direction lour, three and a half, and three feet, thinning the tw'o first to three stalks, and tlie third to two stalks in a hill. On the day alter planting the above experi- mental crop, I planted some twelve or fifteen acres of corn on ground which had been cleared and cultivated some twenty or twenty-five years belore 1 came into possession of the plantation on which I now reside — 1812. This land had been considerably reduced by a long succession of corn crops, but as it lay well I lound no ilifli- culty in renovating it by grassing and manuring. For the three or four years preceding the pre- sent it was cultivated in hemp. Early in April it was plowed and harrowed, which lelt it in a finely pulverised state. It was laid off by a small plow exactly three and a hall feet each way, planted on the l3ih of April, and in due lime thinned oul to three stalks in tlie hill. It was cultivated by plowing both ways with the common shovel plow and once hoed, so as to leave the hills perfectly clean. '1 his corn was affected by the drought in July in the same manner as related in relation to the four acres described above. I caused one acre to be pulled and measured when perlectly dry, through the central part of the field, where it had not been injured by the crows or squirrels, and the yield was seventy- seven bushels. In both cases 1 planted the same kind ul corn, a medium between the white flint and gourd seed. This corn is not so pro- ductive as the larger kinds, but better 1< r bread. I have mentioned the product ol the last men- tioned acre, not becau;-e of its extraordinary character — for it falls greatly short of the great crops of Bryant and Young, ol Jessamine coun- ty - but to show that land cleared nearly sixty years, and which had been reduced by twenty or twenty-five successive crops ot corn, can be ea- sily renovated so as to produce seventy-seven bushels per acre, in quite an unfavorable sea- son. 1 will only add, that although I did not measure the balance ol the field, 1 am satisfied, Irom the number of wagon loads, that the whole would average fuliv seventy-seven bushels per acre. Yours, truly, Prospect Hdl, Dec. 7, 1844. A. Beatty. 40 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. ®1)C Soutl)£vn (JiultiDtttov. AUGUSTA, GA, SATUtePAY, MARCH 1, 1845. To OUR Exchanges. — Those Agricultural Journals with which we exchange will confer a favor by addressing to us at Athens in future. Manures. — We don’t think those readers who like to look into the plain “ why and be- cause” ol things can have a much richer treat, than is furnished them in the admirable report on Manures, by Dr. Porcher, of South Caroli- na. Colman’s Europe.4n Agriculture. — We have read with a great deal of pleasure, and profit too, the second number r f Mr. Colman’s “European Agriculture and Rural Economy,” and we wish it was iti the hands of every man in the Southern States: for it furnishes very many happy illustrations of what care and skill will do in increasing the productions of the soil. Far as we are behind the age in respect to our system of agriculture, the reader of Mr. Col- man’s work will find in it very many reasons to congratulate himself on account of the por- tion of the earth in which his lot has been cast; but especially on account of the institutions un- der which it is his good fortune to live. Not indeed that we should be satisfied with our situ- ation as it now is, and make noeff irttobetierit, but that, with all its defects, it is far better, com- paratively speaking, than can possibly be en- joyed by the corresponding classes in Europe. We were about preparing an abstract of this number ol Mr, Colman’s work, when a synopsis of it came to hand in the Al- bany Cultivator, which will be found in another column. Pork and other Matters. — Our corres- pondent, “J,,” whose article we commend to the reader’s attention, states the fact that the people of Putnam County, last year, paid five thousand dollars for the article of pork ; and he estimates that the value of three hundred and fifty bags ofcotton was thereby consumed. We wish “ J.” had pushed his inquiries a little farther, and furnished our readers with an esti- ma'e of what was paid last year in Putnam County for carriages, horses and mules, cotton bagging, tubs, pails, buckets, brooms, axe-han- dles and axes, hoes, fine boots and shoes, negro shoes, saddles and bridles, all of foreign manu- facture. Cannot he do this yet, and thus fur- nish an array of facts and figures, which, convincing every one of the folly of his past conduct, will compel him, for the future, to do otherwise than make cotton alone, and buy every thing that is consumed on his plantation except bread. Our correspondent also makes the staiemeni that there are thirty-five counties in Georgia, in which, last year, the like sum was 'spent for meat alone. Will “J.” extend the calculation proposed to be made as to Putnam County, through all the thirty-five counties, and let the people see the result'? He has the ability to make a decisive impression on the public mind as to these matters, it he can be prevailed upon to exercise it. We subjoin a statement of the keeper of the toll-gate on French Broad river relating to the same subject; remarking, however, what will occur to almost every one, that but a small por- tion of .the stock consumed by Georgia comes by the French Broad route. TABLE, showing the number of horses and mules, hogs, black cattle and sheep, that passed over the Paint Mountain, in North Carolina, for the South Carolina and Georgia markets : Horses and Mules. In 1840..i5.18l “ 1841.. 5, 833 “ 1842., 3, 840 “ 1843.. 4, 361 Hogs. 52,doo 54,736 62,649 52,612 Bib. G(,tlle. 3,243 3,049 3,318 3,a33 Sheep. 3,245 2,357 3,192 3,565 19,215 Aug®*Vl°( 2,090 222,302 4,702 12,943 2,656 12,339 2,101 21,305 227,001 15,599 14,460 The Cash System. — The National Intelli- gencer, noticing the new agricultural publica- tion, called the “ Ohio Cultivator,” speaks thus: “New advocates of this great national pur- suit appear to be rising up in all parts ol the country. The last announced is that ol the '■Ohio CuUivator,’ at Columbus, by M. B. Bateham, late editor of the Genesee Furmer. From what we hear of his experience, ability, and liberal aims, it is to be wished that his suc- cess iLay be commensurate with his deserts and his most sanguine hopes: though it is nut quite clear how his own ‘capital and labor’ can find adequate return at the rate of $1 per annum for a semi-monthly ‘in quarto form, (8 pages,) ma- king a large volume, with a title-page and in- dex!’ All, however, that his best friends can ask for him is, that his paper (not his person) may grow with the growth and strengthen with the strength of the flourishing common wealth he has chosen as the field lor his industry and enterprise. “Mr. B. will be entitled to a first-rate premi- um if, in the field he has entered, he can teach how to prevent the appearance of a weed which we understand is very troublesome and unpro- fitable to agricultural w'orks, called the ^delin- quent subscriber,' and which is said to be very apt to make its appearance alter the first year’s cultivation of new' ground.” F.-om something like thirteen years' experi- ence as a political editoi, w'e can speak of that most iroublesome and unprofitable weed called by the Intelligencer the "delinquent subscriber." It is, in truth, a most abominable pest, even in those concerns devoted to the cultivation of po- litics; and if it were permitted to spring up at all in those devoted to the cultivation of the soil, they could not exist. This difficulty can only be avoided by doing as we do, and as nearly every agricultural pa- per in the Union does: that is, to require pay- ment in advance, in every instance. Aaopling this system, and acting on it strictly, enables us to pul the subscription dowm to One Dollar per annum. "Whereas, if we were to publish the paper on credit, and take the risk of delinquent subscribers, we could hardly afibrd to publish it at Three Dollars. So great is the difference be- tween cash and credit, in the business ol pub- lishing papers dependent altogether on subscrip- tions lor support. To many persons, whose word is good, where- ver they are known, for thousands, it may at first view seem hard that they are denied credit for the paltry sum of one dollar, the Unniial sub- scription to the Gultlvator. But they have only to recollect, that having found it indis ensable to establish the rule ol cash payments, as ena- bling US to pul the paper at a very low rate, and thus bring it within the reach ot every body, there can be no exceptions to the rule without giving serious offence. Political Economy. — Be it distinctly known to all w'hom it may concorn, that the Cultivator eschews party politics as it would avoid a pesti- lence. Nothing shall induce it to depart from this determination. Yet there is a science, ha- ving a very close connection w'ith politics — not party politics though — as well as with the busi- ness concerns o! all men, and more especially with planters, called political economy. It pro- poses to untold the laws which govern the pro- duction, distribution and consumption of wealth. Discussions connected w'ilh this science come properly wdthin the scope and aim of an agri- cultural paper; and from the pleasure and pro- fit ol such discussions we shall certainly not de- bar either ourselves or our readers, even though, by those vvtio really know nothing ol what they are talking about, it may be insinuated that we are meddling with party politics, when our only aim shall be to show in what respect the princi- ples of political economy may be violated, and the interests of the agricultural class sacri- fited by either state or national legislation. The number and the importance of the agricultural class, would seem to us to require this of any pub- lication that is faithf ul to their interest. The last census shows that about eighty nutol every hun- dred of the population of the Utjited States, are interested directly in the soil, and derive their subsistence from its cultivation. They have to bear the chief part of the public burden, when the State wants money: they have to shoulder the musket when the country is to be defended. Their interest is the great interest of the nation, which being sacrificed, the nation must sink. There is just about the same difference be- tween political economy and party politics as there is between mid-day sunshine, and mid- night darkness. Plows. — At first view, it would seem that it is a very simple business to make a plow ; — and indeed it is an easy matter to make such plows as are used in the slovenly agriculture ol the South ; — but in other parts of the United States, great attention has been bestowed on the im provement ol this most important implement. And the consequence has been that now a great deal more work is done by the same force in the ;ame time, and it is done a great deal better than formerly. In old times, in some parts of New England, to plow green sward, required a force of three yoke of oxen, with a horse to lead, with two drivers, one man at the plow handles, another at the beam to keep the plow ■viMafftyasj!Baix^r^xi*xx^ir-73 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 41 in the ground, and oUen a man to follow with a hoe to turn over the lurrows, where the plow did its office imperfectly. With all this force, an acre per day was considered good work. Now, u®der the very same circumstances, an acre and a half is jjlowed per day, with a single yoke of oxen, and one man : and the work is done in a manner infinitely superior to the old mode. All this has resulted from the improve- ments that have been made in the plow. Some ■of the strongest minds in the country have been directed to the subject. Even so far back as the times of Timothy Pickering, who had been Secretary of State under vTashiogtO'n, this mat- ter was engaging the attention of intelligent ■men. Mr. Pickering -gave the following rule for the construction of the mold-board: “ Having fixed a straight line, by one cut of a saw from the upper corner of the mold-board behind, to its point forward, cut away the wood above and below that line in such a manner that when finished if you carry a straight rule from She fore to the hind part, keeping it all the way at right angles with the straight line, it shall touch ike face of the mold board, iti its whole breadth, in straight lines., through its entire ; winding, so that its upper ■covnci' behind shall overhang the lower sufficien ly to elect a ■com- plete turning of the furrow slice.’” The Albany Cultivator, from which we get the inlormation staled herein about ancient and ■modern plowing in New England, says that this rule of Mr. Pickering is stifl adhered to in all the raodera improvements of the plow. How many plows are there in Georgia constructed according to this r-ale.; or, indeed, according to any fixed rule 1 Grape V-ines. — The usual way of propaga- ting grape vines among planters, is by cuttings, or layers. With professional gardeners, there are other modes, involving the refinements ol science, and requiring an amount of care and attention which none but prof ssional gardeners can bestow on the business. In the common mode, with all the attention that can usually be given to the process, success is very far Irom being certain. Hence the small extent to which even good grapes are multiplied in the Southern States. When a single vine shall have been once established, the'e is a mode by which it can be multiplied to any moderate extent, by layers, without much trouble. We are indebt- ed to Mr. Afflmk, of Ingleside, Miss., for an account ot it. In a letter to the editor, of 28th January, he says: — “Let me give you the benefit of a hint I got I'd propagating the g'^ape, trom the last ganjener I had. Alter selecting your vines (shoots) for layering, open trenches, .sav two inches deep, (after properly preparing the ground, of course,) in convenient positions for layering, and in these trenches peg down the vines, before the buds begin to swell, or about that time, wiihout cutting into or twisting the vines, and leave them so, without ".ny covering of earth, until they make shoots a toot long. Then cover up care- fully by hand, and lava litde litter over to keep moist. Each eye will then make you such plants as { send you. I had some even much stronger, but they are planted out. By the old plan of covering up ai once, I did not get any such plants, nor near so many.” The road ambition travels is too narrow for friendship; to crooked for love; too rugged tor honesty ; and too dark for science. Lard Lamps. — Bacon’s JLaid L'duips, an aU- vertisement of which will be round on the last page of the Cultivator, are exactly as they are described to be. We have tried them, and therefore speak from personal observation. We have v/eighed the lard and measured the time, and find the rate ot consumplion to be one ounce ; fortwo hours; that is, supposing the lard to, ■cost 8 cents per lb., the cost is one-fourth ui a ' cent per hour. That is a degree of economy al- together suitable to the limes. The light is a very pleasant one, without either smoke or dis- agreeable smell so often occasioned by burning oil. In addition to all this, the lamp is a very neat article, and very cheap; and is withai so simple in construction, as to occasion no diffi- culty in its management. Improvement in Virginia. — In our Janu- ary number, we said that the emigrants from New York were rapidly improving-the poorest lands in some of the poorest counties in \ ir- ginia. There has been, very naturally, a good deal of curiosity excited to knowhow this result is being brought about, the opinion being, that from similarit) of soil and climate in Virginia and Georgia, the process that succeeds there will answer here also. Happily for all whose attention is turned to this subject, we have, in the Southern Planter, a brief oullitieof the prac lice of the New York emigrants in Virginia, Mr. Bolts, the editor, says; — “They came poor to poor land, and they are getting rich and getting their lands rich too, with no other means than their starving prede- cessors enjoyed. He says that they are not more intelligent generally, probably nut as much , so, as the natives aiound them. Nor are ihey more scientific cultivators ol the soil; but the great, secret is, they save every thing and they .nake everything work, they buy as little as possible; the money they do spend, is either tor the absolute necessaries of life that can’t be m de at home, or tor manure, good implements, and other things criculated to mcrease their products, in this latter class of articles, he says, they are the most liberal pur ha.sers fur their means he ever saw. But they save and husband every thing upon the tarm that will make manure, as if it were gokl A clo.se log pen is made, the bottom ot which i.s puddled, and this is the universal depository tor the sweepings of the house, the empiyings of tne wash tubs, ihe ollal of their victuals, and every thingelsethaia Virginian throwsaway. There are no drones in the lii\e; men and b-iy-, old women, young girls and liitle children, all work incessantly. Alter a child is six year.-tdd, he is a help rather than an incumbrance, in a pe- cuniary point of view, rtius they grow rich, wffiere their neighbors would grow poorer every day; and .such are the happy effects of well re- gulated labor, that their oecuriiary p ospcriiy i.s only equalled by the comiori, cleanliness, and happiness of their homes.” Hotchkiss’ Water Wheels.— \Ve would call the attemion of mill owners to the adver- tisement of Mr. Hotchkiss’ Premium Vertical Water Wneels, to be found on our last page. The certificates annexed, from practical men who have witnessed ttieir operation, sufficiently attest the value ol the invention. Relief of Asthma. — Get some blotting pa per andsoak it well in a strong solution of salt- petre. Take it out and dry it. On going to bed light it, and lay it on a plate in your bed-ronm. This may enable persons badly affiicied to sleep well. ORIGINAL COMMUNICATIONS. For ihe Soalherii Cullivaior. Flowers. — Charcoal as a Maiiui e. Mr. Editor; — 1 am no farmer, an 1 therefore, peihaps, am not eriiilled io a place in your co- lumns. But I shall address my-self to your fair readers, and with this dedication, I know your gaUani-ry will not allow y. u to expel meirooi them. 1 design to speak ot flowers, a^nd their cultiva- tion in part. Last spring, I noticed several ar- ticles on the tase of chare lal as a manure. I was induced to try some experiments with it, cm difierent flowers, and the efiects were favorable beyond conception. I give you a statement of my expei imenis, for the i enefit of the ladie.s, who, “the fairest of a 11 flower's,” delight in the cultivation ol a sp.!eDdid flower. My first experiment was on the Chinese biscus. It was small, had been much affected by the frost, had turned yellow, and hail all the ap,pearanccs of a rapid decay. I mixed equal parts of charcoal and earth, and applied to the roots. In two weeks, it began to change color and to grow. In two months, it had grown more iban two fee . 1 then added well rotted cow manure, and on to Chrisimas it continued to grow and bloom most splendidly, Ttie next experiment, was one upon orange and lemon tree.'-;. The surface soil was remo- ved to the roots, and charcoal also applied. The eflect was equally as great. So, likewise, was the effect produced upon the india-rubber tree Another experiment was upon the geranium. It gave health and vigor to the plant, and pro- duced an abundant cro[) of blooms, enlarged in size, and increased in richness of color. I dis- covered, however, that the plants were more easily hurt, by the warm weather, than former- ly. So, taking the hint, I removed the charcoal, and a|)plied earth in its place. In one instance, I covered the charcoal with earth. The effect which followed in both cases, was all that 1 de- sired. The quantity of charcoal applied, was equal in parts with earth. Another experiment, was upon the Cactus. I applied about one-founfi charcoal, mixed with suiface soil. The effect was to produce rapid growth, strong and laige flowers, as well as to protect, to a great extent, the plants from decay or rot. A Cactus speciocissimus had been potted two years, had routed well, but never grown a par- ticle. 1 filarited ii in charcoal, half earth. In ten days the bud began to swell; and in thirty, the shout was more than two inches long, it grew finely the whole year, i applied one- fourth ('ha''coal to the Cactus truncatus with great effect, enlarging the wood very mm h, hastening the bh om ten days before the time, in the (ireviousyear, enlarging tlie number ana in- creasing their brilliatuy. The same application was made to tfie C. septangular is, which increased its growth very tnuch; hut the age of the plant prevented its blooming, and therefore I cannotspeakof the ef- fect which it ' ould have produced. The C. truncatus and C. speciosus both were rnanmed with charcoal, and increased growth, number, size aii'i quality ol flowers, was the re- sult. For the Cactus, rharc'ial is decidedly the best stimulant 1 have ever tried. One thing, how- ever, should alwavs be borne in mind io its ap- plication: it is ver-' porous, and conseijuently a'irnits the air freely 'o the roots of 'he plant, arving, an'i consequently destroying them. Whether it be a[. plied in large or small quan- tities, it should be covered with an inch or two ofearth, or else daily waterings given. Upon the Camelia-Japonica, I likewise made experiments. Nut more than one-fifth charcoal was mixed with the earth, which was poured around the ball of earth and roots, when transferred to a larger pot. No perceptible ef- fect was produced upon the p'ant during the summer. The roots, I found upon upsetting in 42 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. Uic .dil, lui.l gl ■vVii vtJiy luUrll, illia 'Illi. UltlL^I 1 begin lo realize ihe benefit in the bluom The fij 1 eis are double in number, and ihe size very much increased, iar beyond anytliing i have ever seen before, i have now a C. Jhnbriaia in bloom, three inc-hes and a half in diameter, and jhe stalk not eighieen inches high. An Imbri- cata is likewise blooming, very much enlarged. 1 experimented upon xhe Euphorbia Poinset- ii'i, which had been killed to the earth by fi-ost. The result was a growth of thirteen feet in one year, with leaf and flower much improved in size and beauty. i believe the bes^ mixture which can be made with charcoal, is that of well rotted cow man me. This will answer for the greater portion ol plants; blit the florist will discover very soon that it will not answer to add a targe portion of the coal. The plants will thereby sufl’er a great deal, and render Ireauent and heavy waterings aecessary. In every instance, I have found that charcoal added richness to the foliage; and in the case of the Hybisciis, the color of the flower was changed to a very deep, from a light red. I placedsome hyocinths in jars in this mixture, which resnlied in nothing favorable. lam now trying ih'" effect of gtiaaa, in solirtion, upon my flowers; and from twenty day^s experience, I be- lieve It will answer very well in many instan- ces. I have found much difSculty in managingthe finer and mo-e delicate varieties of the Gerani- arn to obtain fine foliage and rich, large blooms. At last, however, 1 have succeeded to my satis- faction. Take unrotied cow manure, beat very fine; remove the earth down to the small root.s'; apply two inches of this manure ; press it down well and water frequenily. This plan I know will produce a fine plant, and still finer blooms. If any of your fair readers can furnish me with a better mode, I shall be thankful. The plan ot cultivating the Geranium a' the North, and in green-houses, by skiltui garde- ners, cannot be practised upon in uiir parlors— the green-houses of Southern ladies. I lostsix- ty plants of the rare and delicate kinds in one year, by attempting to ape the course of others in this matter. But, Mr. Ediior, I must stop. I have run out my paper wiihout observing it. Should you think the foiegoing worthy a perusal, place it in the ladies’ corner. M. For the Southern Cultivator. Analysis of Soils and Crops. Mr. Editor: — Forsome twenty longyears 1 have been vexing and treating mother earth most cruelly to make the “pot boil.” The want of science, the want of attention and atten- dance,a preference lor political raiherihan agri- cultural reading; and la.st, thimgh not least, that mistaken idea, loo commonly entertained by native Georgians, that labor is not reputable- all combined, have rendered me unworthy the name of Farmer. Bui, if 1 have done wrong fora long time, it is no reason that I know of whv I should always do so. 1 now want to un- derstand the w/ni and the toherefore of mv busi- ness. If I can find out where it is, and what it is, I wish to begin at the beginning, to learn, il I can, the farmer’s alphabet. If you vvoul'l publish in the Southern Cultivator, th“ analysi.s of corn, of wheat, of rye, of oars, and :f cotton, also the analysis of a perfect «oil, it seems to me something would be known about the nu ans necessary to improve land, and to make a good crop. Corn is indispensable to the welfare of mv latnily. I( I knew how to supply the defi- ciencies of my soil, and to feed my corn with the food best adapied to its use, with the bles- sings of heaven, I think a large crop would be as certain as two and three make five. This principle will app y to all crops. A plenty of pork, beet, mutton, milk and butter, are very desirable. Nor is plenty of geese, turkies, ducks, chickens and egg«, at all ohjectional. Some' finela 'ies and gentlemen, the one with a novel in her hand, the other with a cigar in his mouth, ' m.-iy laugt) at tlie.->e thmg.'^. yci a iiaekwo d- man knows ihey are useful and likes to have them. I want to know the breed ot hogs that will give the must good meat for the food con- SLi ed: how to teed and what to feed with, to produce flesh, and to make fat. (But spare, oh spare She Berksh res; they have brought me lo buying pork.) I want tO' know what kind of cattle will suit best for the dairy, the yoke and [he shambles, and how to feed them. (Again 1 say, spare the Durhams. iV] me have died ) I want lo know af-^o the kind ol sheep best adapt led to the soil and climaie of Georgia : how to teed and what to feed with, to produce flesh and fat and wool. Any information on the subject of poultry will be thankfully received. My ignorance about my own bttsiness, and the only business totiby which I live, isso-g-eat, and con.^esuenily mj wants are so many, I am fearful you will become tired before they are supplied. Bui if f could get the information asked, 1 think I should begin to find out some- thing of the whereabouts of it. Of you, the Georgia Journal thundered tre- mendously to make Governors. ’ Pis hoped the Southern Cultivator will now lighten with ef- fulgence to make Farmers. Respecifull V, your obdd. serv’t.. Clodhopper, ol Houston County, Houston Co., Feb. 8, 1845. For the Southern Cullivalor. Advice to Piauters. Mr. Editor; -The universal question which is asked is, what can we do to better our condi- tion f It strikes me that there is a very ready answer to il. and one which is as efficient, if practised, as prompt ; Live at home and diversi- [if your pur suits . In those hard, pinching times — money scarce and cotton almost worthless — the farmers of Putnam county paid to Tennes- see and Kentucky, by drovers,_/ii7e thourand dol- lars for pork this s ason ! Can you w-onder that limes are hard with farmers, when they buy what they eat, instead of raising it? it required the proceeds of throe hundred and fifty bales ol cotton to pii.-'chase this meat. There are, in Georgia, thirty-five counties, which,-on an ave- rage, have seat a like amount of money from the Stale, and for the same purpose. Suppose, insiead of buying this meat, the larmers bad di- minished their cotton crop so much, and raised their own pork, they would not only have h .ri belter meat, but the cotton crop would have been diminished in the_se counties more than three thousand bags. The same policy pursued throughout the cotton growing Stales would tend very much to reduce the production within the demand, and a better price w'ould follow for that made. But, to raise our pork, we must be economists in our provisions; and how we can increase the amount, wiihout a corresponding in- crease of labor, is the great mystery. Manure your corn land well, and a less quantity will yield a greater amount of grain. The time saved in cultivating the les< quantity of land will afford opportunity to collect and make and applv the manure. But there are substitutes which rnav he used instead ot corn. The Jerusalem artichoke yiel.is abundantly. The culture is simple, and hog.‘5 are exceedingly fond ot ihem. Last year, lor the fir.st time, thev were intro duced into middle Georgia, and prMved them- selves great iniilli|iliers. Mr. Joseph Wilks, ol this c-iuntv, dug lour hills a tew flays since, and gathered ji.ve pecks of roots: one hill yield- ing just half a bushel. Now, Mr. Ediior, if you will give a history of this root, its nuiritive qualities, and its value for stock, you will cfinfer a very great favor on your readers. For, if worthy of cultivation, many will go largely into it this year and there- by many a pound of good Georgia pnik, may supply the place of the range-laltedhogsol Ten- nessee. J. Putnam County. Ga. Pride costs us more than hunger, thirst, and cold. Agricuiturai Meeti g lu Miiledgevi.le. Tnecall for an Agriculi ural Convention af vlilledgevilie, on the 27i., January, was respon- ded to by so few persuns, that those present de- clined doing anything more than the adoption of the following Resolutions, to which we invite the attention ol the public. Md LEnGEViLDE,2'7ih Jan., 1845, A few citizens having convened in Mrs. Hu- son’s long room, in pursuance of a call in the public papers, among whom were Mess-’s. Richard Rowell, Leroy Singleton, James Dix- on, Benj. Lester, Mark Huson, Allen Little, W, Y Hansell, John S. Thomas, Wm. Turner and others; Major Rowell was called to th-s Chair, and Will. Turner acted as Secretary. After some remarks from several gentlemen, Wm. Turner offeied several re.solulions: wdiich, being considered and amended, were adopted, as follows : 1. Resolved, That an Agrfcultursl Convention be held in Miiledgevihe on the filth Monday in March next, to consist of delegates to be ap- pointed on the part ol the diflerent counties, and such other persons as may be invited to partake in the proceedings. 2. Resolved, That the different counties be re- quested to appoint delegates accordingly. 3. Resolved, Thai a committee ot three, in- cluding the Chairman, be appointed lo draltand publish an address, in order to promote t'ee pur- pose of this meeting. 4. Resolved, That among other pr eeedinga,, the committee recommend the formation of ag- ricultural associations, in the different counties, and agricultural meetings o;’ associations in the different rudiciaf circuits. 'The committee appointed under the third re- soltilii n, consists of Messrs. Rowell, Singleloa and Turner. On motion of Mr. Lester, Resolved, That the proce.^dings of this meet- ing be published in the Milledgeviile papers, and such other papers as may lake an interest in them- — particularly the Snuthern Cultivator. Rich.-'.rd RcvTf.LL, Chairman. Wm. Turner, Acting Sec’ry. TO THE PEOPLE OF GEORGIA. Fellow CiTi z-ens: — On the 27th ult., a small numberof persons assembled in Milledgeviile, for the purpose of co-nsuliing on the great inte- rests of agriculture. Alter due deliberation, several resolutions were adopted by the meet- ing.» The under.-^igned are the committee appoint- ed under the third resolution. They regret that the\ have not been delegated by a larger assem- blage of citizens, and especially that they are unable to present the great imeresls of agricul- ture in so commanding a light as they desire. They trust, however, that the day of small ihinss, will not be despised, and they proceed to the di.schaige ol the duty as-signed them As inducements to our fellow-ciiizens to con- cur in the movement which has been auempted, they advert to the depressed stati ol agticuliure, the imperfect siateof household economy, the praiseworthy example of several agri' uliuial assuciaiions, especially that of Hi neock, w hich has ex' ried SI- benefieial an influence, and ihe stirring ap' cals recently made to our interests and our patriotism, in several of our public journals. Lei not the failure to get up a Convention on the 27th ult.. arresi our efforis ; more determin- ed endeavor.® may yet succeed. It is only ne- cessary to bring logeiher the increasins frii nds of our enterprise. And we cannot hut hope, with the intelligeni editor of the Southern Culti- vator, “that in a very few year.®, almost every countv in the State will have its Club, and iliai a 'lofthem w'illbe but branches ol a great State Agricultural Society.” Let, then, our fellow citizens forthw’ith, get ■ We omit 'he resrv'ulions here, as they vitl be lound in the proceedings of the meeting above. — Ed. Cvlt. THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 43 UpcoLiiiiv' iiKelin.i.'i aQiI as.^ ciaiioub; wtiicii, like the Hancock Club, may du much good, il they go no lurther. But let them exiend the good by meetings and associations in the judi- cial circuits, if they desire them; though the Committee are a little apprehensive that these latter may interlere with the purpose of a Slate Society or Convention; which they desire by all means to see got up. It is scarcely necessary to say, that agricul- tural associations will be merely consultative andadvisoryt there will ol course be nothing compulsory in anything they may do. This is said in view of the purpose entertained in the attempt to get up a Convention on the 27th. It was thought desirable by some, in view of the low prices of cotton, to induce our farmers to reduce the quantity, in order to improve the price. That this reduction would have this tendency there can be no doubt. The reciprocal influence of demand, price and supply is ob- vious. An increased demand is folio we i oy increased prices; increased prices by increasec supply; increa-^ed supply by diminished prices ; diminished prices by diminished supplies ; di- ininishe.l supplies by increased demand, increas- ed prices, and so on. A reduction in the quan- tity ol cotton, then, would be full wed by an augmentation of price; more especially as this reduction would enable farmers to prepare their cotton more carefully for market. But, even if the price of cotton should not be improved, the withdrawal ol apart of our labor from the production, would enable us to employ it more profitably in other operations. It isdis- reputable as well as ruinous to purchase Tom others so many articles which might be produc- ed by ourselves. It is absurd to raise cotton at present or probable prices, to purchase horses, mules, cattle, hogs, sheep, ordinary clothing, oi other articles, which might, and ought to be pro- duced at home The countless thousands which are expended in this way ought to be retained among us. And we are gratified to find that such is the present tendency. To continue, and increase this tendency is the desire of the Com- mittee. It does not come within the present purpose of the Committee, nor are they piepared, to give the statistics which would sustain their views. They confidently rely upon the recollections of their fellow-citizens, aided by the developements which areconsiantly manifesting themselves, to make the proper impressions. Among the objects to which a part of our ef forts might be profitabi}’ directed are wool, silk, indigo, tobacco, batter, perhaps apples in some situations, &c. Even ifthese would not be very profitable objects, the labor withdrawn from overstrained efforts to produce cotton, would enable us lu build or repair fences, build or repair housc.s,'" collect manure, ditch our hill-sides, drain our low grounds, and constantly add o the value of our Ian Is and negroes, the intellectual and mo- ral improvement of ourselves and families, and the prosperity and comfort ot the community. Cmne up, then, fello w-citizens, to the rescue. Though mi.serably lacerated, good old Georgia contains within her bosom all the eletuents of a great republic, and a happy people. All the in- ventions ot interest and patriotism call on vou to say that her sun shall not decline in the gloom which threatens her! Your fellow-citizens, Rich.\rd Rowell. Leroy Singleton. Feb. 1, 1815. Wm Turner. Farmers’ .lleetiiig in Harris County. Pursuant to former notice, a respectable por- tion of the farming community met this day in the C>>uri House in the lown of Hamibon. to deliberate upon their interest as a cotton grow- ing people, and to give expression to their views as to what might be.st pro note that interest. The meeting was organized by calling Col. Wm. C. Osborn to the Chair, and Geo. A. B Dozier to act as Secretary. Altera few chaste, cogent and well directed remai tis, e.'ifd.iiiauny ol iiie ..jeciiim, by .vi. J. Crawford, Esq , a motion was submitted by the same, that the Chair appoint a com .dtiee of se- ven to drav/ up and report appropi iate Pream- ble and Resolutions. Whereupon, Messrs. B Henry, B. Ligion, J. Brooks, Hatcher, Zachry, Trammell and Crawlord, were appointed said Committee, who, having retired, returned and reported, through M. J. Crawlord, E.sq., the fol- lowing PREAMBLE AND RESOLUTIONS. When real distress pervades a community, it is proper that individuals should as.semble to- gether and consider the causes producing such effects, and endeavor to remove them il it be in their power to do so. We are satisfied that lor almost every evil, there is some corresponding remedy that may be used to effect its reliei. The people of the Southern States have engaged all their labor in the firoduction of cotton, with the exception of barely a sufficient supply of hreadsiuffs wnereon to subsist. This has been the means of bringing into the country by far the greatest proportion of mcmey that is or has been in circulation, whereby persons are ena- bled to meet their engagements; but the present price of this great staple and the prospect of its not advancing, demands Irom every one a serious consideration as to w'hat course they should pursue. There is not a cotton planter but that could give the reason lor the decline in this aiticle ; yet they are all satisfied that indi- vidual exertion and diiection to theirown labor, could effect no beneficial result; and hence no effort is made to accomplish that de.si table ob- ject. Every one must understand that the allu- sion is to the ovei whelming quantity which is produced, and so very farsurpasses ihedeinand — the man w ho cannot see the truth ot this, must certainly be destitute of both reason and com- mon sense The remedy suggests itself to all, at a glance; yet, as has been before said, indi- viduals can effect nothing, and it depends en- tirely upon the co-operation of the mass ot cot- ton growers, whether or not i hey wull pursue the suicidal course hpretolore adopted. Another suggestion as to its use and consumption at home; the immense quantity of money paid out lor bagging and rope, with whica we bale our cotton, might be retained within the limits oi our o n State, by using the bagging and rope made from the cotton— and it is generally ad- mitted to be equallv\as good'as any other. The quantity ot cotton thus manufactuted would les-en the quantity lor exportation astonishing- ly, and consequently advance the price in pro- portion to the diminution. Many individuals, no doubt, may apprehend that colion thus put up tor market wouKl not command so good a price, but in this they are mistaken, for those persons engaged in selling the various other kinds of bagging and Rope would no doubt di- minish the quantity usually ordered, were it un- saleable. Upon these subjects mu( h more might be said; but experience is the best teach- er, in which we have taken some les.sons. Wherefore, be it Resolved, That the planters of Harris county, here assembled, do agree to diminish I he quantity of cotton bv each of them raised, at least so far as to produce all oiher ar- ticles uei-essarv I’or home consumption, and to supply those of our own Couniy not engaged in agricultural pursui's, thereby preventing the an- nual iransporiaiion of large quaniiiiesof money to other States. Be it farther Resolved, That we will use, in the preparation ot our cotton for market, the bagging, rope and twine made of cotton; provi ded we can purchase upon as good conditions as we could the various other kinds used. Be it turlher Resolved, That we recommend to the other Counties to adopt some measures relative to the.«e subjects. These being submitied and adopted without dissension, on motion it was requested that they be published. Wm. C. Osborn, Ch’n, Geo. a. B. Dozier, Secietary. Harris Co-, Ga., Jan. 7, 1845. P. S, —There seems to be prcjudice.s existing in leiereiice lu lhe^e meetings, aiiMiig iru..i mis- taken notions as to iheirobject. Agoodlynum- ber did not attend in Hamilton from othercauses, thinking the object was to form a binding agree- ment upon them to curtail their crops of cotton to a certain standard, when, in truth, it was but a suggestion of wisdom and economy to that false oblainment that looks to cotton as the King purchaser ol all things. G. A. B. D. To Census Takers. The following letter to the editors of the Southera Recorder, from R. S. Hardwick, Esq., who has been appointed to take the Cen- sus of Hancock county, is well worthy the consideration of those officers in the oihercoun- ties of the Sia'e, and we commend it to their attention, with the sincere hope that they will all adopt his suggestions : To Messrs. Grieve & Orme: Gentlemen: — ! have been appointed by the Inferior Court of Hancock county to take the census, and jn making out my book after the form given in your paper, i find it will not give me a great deal mote trouble to add a lew more columns that will give us some important in- formation on the agriculture of our State, pro- vided it, could be taken in all the counties. Whether others do il or not, I intend to do it in Hancock, that our p.op'e may know how much money they are sending abroad for articles they might make at home. 1 am of opinion, if the papers in the Stale were to show the importance ot such information, that the persons appointed in the various counties w'ould cheerfully do it ; and I know of no persons better qualified than yuurselves to bring this -ubject beforethem, and urge your broiher editors to do likewise. The columns that I have added to my book are as follows: 1st. — Number bu.shels Corn raised in 1844; 2d. — Number bushels Wheat, do.; 3d. — Number bushels Oats, do.; 4th. — Number lbs. ginned Cotton, do.; 5tti. — Number lbs. Pork, do.; 6ih. Number lbs. Puik bought, not raised in Georgia, do.; 7th.— Number lbs. Flour bought in 1844, not raised in Georgia : 8ih. — Number Horses and Mules bought, not rais- ed in Georgia, from l-l Apiil, 1844, to 1st April, 1845; 9tb.— Amount paid for Horse.s, Mules, Puik, and Flour, not raised in Georgia, be- tween 1st Apiil, 1844, andlst April, 1845. In those counties where they grow Rice and Tobacco, they might be added andOats left out. 1 am clearly of opinion, it the true amounts could be ascertained, that our people pay out for articles that they might rai.se, that it would nstoni'h us, and readily discover to us one of ibecaus s c! our pecuniary distress ; and per- haps bethe means ol diverting us from our lung established and ruinous practice ol making cot- ton to purchase that which we could more eas- ily laisethan cotton. It may be that I have u ore laid out in my book, than many ot those ap- pointed would like to be at the trouble of pre- paring for and taking; but I consider them all useful, and am induced to do it for the benefit ot agriculture in my own county, f hope, gentle- men, you will agree on the importance of the subject, and bring it before those persons ap- pointed. Respectfully, Sparta, Feb. 10, 1845, R S. Hardwick. Law for the Protection of Fruit. — Ano- ther subject demanding the immediate attention of our Legislature, and necessary to be urged by petitions, is, the passage of a law making the robbing of gardens and Iruit yards a penal of- lence— orin other words calling it legally what it is in reality, stealing. As the law stands, w'e are told that this is not a crime, but an offence or trespass, lor which we may bring suit and re- cover the amount of actual damage— which in effect is found to be not worth the trouble of prosecution; and hence, the law' encourages this species of plunder, and serves to prevent many from cultivating choice fruit, who would other- wise do so. ~Okio CuUivator. 4i THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. From Uie Albany Culti Valor. Mr. Colinaa'9 Eiiii'opeaii Agricultu-re. The second pari ut mis work has taade ils appearance. The great ditiiculty of (irocturing tlie information sought, in an exact and anihen- tic torm, amidit the etn.harrass-mentS'anil i-treun veniences « liieb surround a stM'anger, are men- lioned as reasons why thispoition o! the worK bias been so lomr delayed. Mr. Colman says he cannot promise his liiirdand fourth numbers at any' particular ti:i>e,, but assures us that no oureasonabfe delay shall be permitted, fie has yet to- visit Ireland, some oi the counties of Scotland, the dairy portions ol England, and the fi.ix and hoD districts, in the sfiiing he iniends to visit the continent, and hopes to be able to return lu this country in autumn. The first division of the number before us, is devoted to a continuation ol remarks on ihe AlloLnisnL sijsbmi. Under this head, many useiul tacts aregiven, showing the large amount ol sustenance wtiich the soil, under proper ma- nagement, is capable of yteldirtg— lliough, as Mr. C. says, it is probable that the “-utmost pro- ductive capacity of art acre of land by any crop has not yet been fully determined.”^ An instance is mentioned where a man has snppo-rted himsell, wile and son, Irom two acres of land, lor which he paid a reniot .Sd5,60; and in ihe course of seven years saved enough from the produce ol his two acres to purchase two acres at lo^-lSri per acre. In another case, six acres, under spade cultivation, is slated to have given an average of hay-two- bushels ol wheat per acre-. Another witness brought be- fore the Parliamentary committee, testified that trn the estate ol L-ud Howard, Barbot Hall, Yorkshire, twenty-eight bushels ol wheat had been obtained from a quarter of an acre y being at the rate of 112 bushels per acre. Mr. Col- n^an- thinks, however, that the accuracy of this statement may be considered doubillih At Horshanr, in Sussex, some seed wheat, brought from Australia, was sowti in rows 9 inches apart, and hills & inches apart, only one seed in a place. At this rate it took lbs. seed per acre — at 03 lbs. per bushel, one bushel of seed would plant mure thart six acres. The-yieldol this wheat was ailherareofll bu shefs per acre. Some of the straw was six feet high. A laborer, John Harris, in Sussex, produced the following crops Pom his allotment. “ One acre and 12 rods, wheat, 53 bushels- Italian acre ol oais, 6-1 bushels; 30 rods of barley, 13^ bushels; 20 rods ol peas, b'.'shels; one acre of potatoes, 404 bushels; haltanacreol turnips, 150 bushels; 10 rods of carry's. 34 ions ; 15rods of mangel-wurtzel, 3 tons. The resiot his land -was occupied as green food for his cows, such as cabbages, rye, clover, lares, &c. He kept two cows. He had trom eight to twelve ptg< all winter, and they consumed all his potatoes, and his turnips, mangel-wurtzel, and carrots, were given to his cows. He lattened 20 stone, or 900 lbs. pork, which he sold to the butcher. He sold 6 shoats at 3 months old, tor store, and one pi? lor roasting; be also sold 2 sows in pig for S12,25.” An instance is m-entioned where a man in Sussex, John Piper, who occupied four acres, and kept two cows, worked one of the cows in a cart, bv which he makes an annual saving oi S21- Not withstan !i g the cow i- worked, “she makes e>ghL paimds of butter a vvectr, besides furnishing s-^onie milk tor the tamilv.’’ Great pains are taken in all cases to save the manure. Nothing is wasted The animals are stall-fed, and only tu ned into a yard a lew hours a day for exercise. Brick orstoneiank-^, well cemented, are sunk near the cow-stables and pig-sties, for the reception of all the liquid manure. “ The contents ot these tanks, on be- coming lull, are pumped into a small cart with a sprinkling-box attacned to it, like that u.'ed foi watering streets in cities, and distributed over the crops, always with tiie gieatest advan- tage, and with effects immediately perceptible.” All which Mr. Colman saw, convinced him that there is no necessity tor impoverishin? the soil, but that under the right mapagement, it wifi keep itself in condit on, and be ever improving. Tile allotment system, though so evidently be- neficial to the poorer classe.s, is strongly opposed by the tarmers in general. In relation to the causes of this- oppo'ition, it is alleged that the farmers are not willins to lessen the dependance ol the laborers on them- lor support — that the preai cropsobt lineu undersuch nice cultivation, contrasted^ with those ot the farmer, tend to throw the latter i-nto ih^ shade, or by proving what the land i* capah e of pnHueing, may in- duce the landlords to-raise therr rents-. Besrdes, it is said the lanners are unwilling- o see the la- borers appear in the markets in competition with themselves, h-fr. Colman ob-serves that whether these reass-.iTS actually exist or not, the “ mo'ivesnamed,al-as T are butioo eonsisteai with the weakness, and too otten-unrestratned selfish- ness, ol hitman nature. Every, man certainly lias a fair right ‘ to live,’ and the duty of every just man is to ‘letMve.^ Blessed be the day, ifcome it ever should, when every man wrll learn that his own true prosperity is essentially concern-ed in the prosperity of his neighb-or, and tliai no gratification on earth, to a good mind, is more delkt-oiis than that which is reflected Irom the haftpines-s (tf another, to which lie has been himself in-strumentalT’' Some of the allotments are managed by men who act i.n the capacity of school-teachers, and the scholars, who are boys from eight to four- teen years of age, perform the labor ot cultiva- ting the crops — working on the farm a given number ot hours each day in return for their instruction. Tl>e system works well, both for the boys, and the condition and product of the grounds. Yet Mr. Colman feels constrained to add bis “strong conviciijn that the education ot the laboring classes is not viewed with favor by those who move in a higher condition of life.” “Every approach, therefore,”' he con- tinues, “in this direction, is likelv to be re.s-ist- ed ; and this feeling of superiority pervades, with an almost equal intensity, every class in society, above the lowest, Irom the master of the household to the most rnertiaKbeneaih whom there is any lower depth. Educaiion is the great leveller of all artificial distinctions, and inav therefore be well looked upon with jealou- sy.” Q'toMily of Sieil per Acre. —Under this head we find al-sc) many useful facts and e.xperiments. The English firmers generally practice very thick’ sowing, and it is the opinion of some very judiciou.s cultivators, 'hat a very large portion of Ihe seed may be saved, and quite as larse, if not larger, erojis be ob’ained, as there are now. Some experiments strongly support this opi- nion. The practice in England .is to sow from 24 to 3 bushels of wheal per acre. One man has reduced his quantity to only thcee pecks per ac'e. He, however, drill and hand-hoes every thing, clover seed excepted. He sows one and a half bushels ol rye, two bushels of oats, seven pecks of barley, and two bushels of peas per acre. In cultivating cabbages, he allow.s one to three square feet. He has produced 45 bu- shels of wheat, 104 bushels of oats, and 40 bu- shels ot barlev, to the acre. There is no doubt ihat by substituting the drill, for the broadcast mode ot sowing, a large portion of seed nuight be saved. S'eeping Seeds. — Considerable has been said, during the pa.sl year, of a ihode ol steeping seeds, intr"diiced by .Vlr. Campbell, of Scot- land. Mr. Colman introduces one or two let- ters from Mr. Campbell in relerence to tliis subject. The steeps he einploys, are sulphate, nitrate, and muriate ot ammonia, nitrates of soda and potass, nd combinations of these. One experiment given, is in substan?:e, the fol- lowing: Sonae earth was dug up 6 feet below the surf-ice, which was totally destitute of or- ganic matter It was sown with seeds which had 1")“.^ soaked in these solution.^, and p’'"' duced plants with seven or eight stems each, while plants from the unprepared seeds pro- duced no more than three stems each. They had Dot reached maturity when this statement was given, and of course, the relative yield of grain c..uld not be told. Spade Husbandry. — This mode of cultivation seems to be exieiuiing itself in Great Britain,, and under the cheapness of hand labor which there prevail-, is found fully remunerating. The principle is the same as that of subsoil plowing. The best toid lor the work, is a three pronged fork, 14 inches deep, and 74 inches wide. This works easier than a spade, and pulverizes the ground better. Though, as Mr. Colman observes, spade husbandry cannot be generally introduced int'j the United States with advantage, yet he says there are some cases in which it might be lound profitable, such as on farms where the poor are kept. In England, no farm is ever co-nn-ected with a pauper esta- blishment, and some caution is there used, les-l those establishments be found too comfortable and attractive. Mr. Colman cites the example of a man in New England, who from only seven- acres of land, sells annually ^2,500 worth ot produce. Condition of Ltaborers. — .Mr. Colman says, “it is with England a question of tremendous importance, wbaf is to become of the vast accu- mulations of the people, which- are continually increasing here at the rale of from seven hun- dred to a thousand per day. * * * The subject, it appears to me, and perhaps wholly from my being unaccustomed to a condition o things in any degree resembling it, is daily as- suming a feariul aspect ; 1 do not mean danger to the government, for the government seems never to have been stronger, but fearful in its bearings upon the public peace, the public mo- rals, the security of property, and the slate of crime.” Mr. C. does not pi etend to ofiter a re- medy for this state of things, but seems to think the allotment system the be^t which has yet been lievised, as it is, at all events, capable ol im- proving, to some e.xieni, the laborer’s condi- tion. Progress of AsricuHiure. — Under th-is head, Mr. Colman gives an interesting description of the great imDrovemenis which have been made arH are s-iTll going firward in England, by means ot draining, irrigation, &e. Of the Live slock, he speaks in the highest terms, but does- not go minutely into this subject, intend- ing to take it op by itself herealter. He speaks not ol the cattle as seen at the cattle shows, but as they are seen every Monday in the Siuithfield roarket, and at the other smaller market's and fairs in various parts of the king- dom. He -says — “here are cattle and sheep of several distinct breeds, and all of rem.arkable ex-ellence of their kind ; I do not say perfect, for that, in almost all cases, would be assuming too much, but leaving very little to be desired bevond what has been attained. Their condi- tion and form, their symmetry, their fatness, are admirable; and each breed is seen retaining its distinct properties; and what is most remai ka- ble, showing how much can be done by human' art and ski'l, in improving the animal furm and condition, and bringing it to a desired model.” Applicalion of Sleat/i to Agricidiure. — The application of steam to the plow, so tar as Mr. Colman has heard, has not been attended with much siiceess. Steam engines are extensively used in some sections, lor threshing grain. In the Lothians of Scotland, it is said that the use o! steam power lor this and oihei purposes, saves one quarter of the horse power required on the farm. A very important item, as the keeping of horse teams is the greatest single source of expense to the British tarmer. A .six horse steam power, usually threshes trom 30 to 40 bushels of grain per hour. Mr. C. suggests that in the prairie districts oft ur western coun- try, wherever coal can be had, stearr- power might be advantageously used for many farm purposes. A very important use of steam power in Bri- tain, i.s the conveying nl live stock to market by means ot s eamboats and railroads. Caiile are brought in immense numbers to Smithfield market by these conveyances, without loss cf SOUTHERN A i'Uil condition — some times the distance ot seven hundred miles. Mr. C. thinks no parties have suffered injury from railroads. Contrary as it maybe to ail theories, the farmer near market is not injured, though the distant one is largely benefitred. The Increase of AgricuUural Products in Britain, is shown in a very striking light. The average importation of wheat into England from 1801 to 1810, when the population wasseldown at 17,44-2,911, would have given a fraction over one peck to each person. Fr-'m 1811 to 1820, when the ptmulalios was ly, 870, 589, the quan- tity imported' would ha.ve given less rhan a gal- lon and a hall to each person. Fnmi 163-1 to; 1835, the population was 55,000,000, and the quantity imp,orted would have given to each person one gallon. Taking the three.years, ]833-’4-'5, the importauon would-have. allowed onlv one pint and one-ffith to eaeh consumer. This will give some idea ol th-e immease pro- d-uctio-B and resources of that Httlc island. Un- der a fast increasing population, as before men- tioned, the dependance on foreign supply, has- been coBstantly growing less. Among the means of improvement, Mr. Col- man remarks, that the Royal Agricultural So- ciety is an efficient organ, it was instituted in 1837. It has begun the establishment ol an a.griculiural library and museum, the object o! which is to exhibit specimens ol agricultural productions which are capable of preservation, seeds, plants, grasss', samples of wool, mineral manures, models and drawings of implements, &c. &c. Mr. Col man remarks that he has of- ^ ten urged the esiablishment of agrieultui'al museums in the United States, especially in the capitals of the States. The suggestion is a- valuable one. The management of the Royal Agricultural Society at its exhibitions, is spoken of as admi- rable in many respects. Mr. C says; — “ Every pos'ible effort is made to secure an impartial decision among the competitors; for besides that they are not suffered fey their presence to • influence the examiners, the examin-srs them- selvi-s are selected trom among persons as far as possible disinterested, and not likely to be influenced. They are cho>en, likewise, -with a special reference to their characters and quali- fication.s, to the nature ot the subjects submit- ted, and every pains is taken in this way, Uo se- cure the greatest aptness and talents. Tim name of the c-mipetitor is not given il it can be avoided, but only the number of the article pre- sented. The rues ol admission and competi- ' tion. are stringent and absolute, and no excep- tions are on any account allowed.” The Highland Agricultural Society of Scot- land, and the Royal Agricu tural Society of Ireland, are both spoken of as excellent institu- tions, similar in their objects and manageineni to the Royal Agricultural Society oi England. Model Farms. — Mf. Go! man notices some ol these. He has vi'-ited that at Glasnevin, near Dublin, and furnishes some highly interesting particulars in regard to it. In connectiutlL e. AN OUTLINE of th? first principles of HoRTlCCLTtTRE, by John Lindley, F K S &c &c., Professor ol Bota- ny in the University of London, and assistant Secre- tary of the Horticultural Society. (CONTINTjED,) L— GENERAL N.\TURE OF PLANTS. 1. Horticuluire is ihe application of the aris of cultivaiion, inuliiplication, and domestica- tion to t.ne vegeiable kingdtmi. Agricul-iure and Ai'boriculuire are branches of Hurticul- utre. 2. The vegetable Ringdora is composed ol living beings desiiune ol sensation, with no power ot moving spontaneously from place to place, and called plants. 3. Plants are organized bodies, consisting ol masses ol' tissue that is permeable by fluids oi gaseous matter. 4. Veg'dabie tissue consists ol minute blad- ders, or tubes adhering by their contiguous sur- faces, and leaving interujediate passages where they do not touch. 5. Tissue is called Cdhdar when it is com- posed I'd minute bladders, which either approach the figure ol a sphere, or are obviously some modification of it, supposed So be caused by ex- tension or lateral compression. 6. When newly formed , it is in a very lax state, and possesses great powers of absorp- tion ; pr bably in consequence of the excessive permeability of its membrane and the imperfect cohesion ol its cells. 7. Cellular tissue, otherwise called Parenchy- ma, const! tales the solt and brittle parts of plants ; such as pitch, pulp, the spaces between the veins of leaves, the principal part of the petals, and the like. 8. Succulent plants are such as ha-ve an ex- cessive development o! the cellular tissue. 9. It may he considered the most essential kind of tissue, becau-se, while no plants exist wiihout it, many are composed of nothing else. 10. Tissue is called Woody Pibre when it is composed of slender tubes, which are conical and closed at each end, and placed side by side. 11. W oody Fibre i.s what causes stilTn ess and tenacity in ceriaiii parts ol plants^ hence it is found ia the veins ol' leaves, and in bark, and it constitutes the principal part of the wood. 12. Vascular 7 tssite, is that in which either an elastic, tough thread is generated spirally within a tube that is closed and conical at each end; or rows of cylindrical cellules, placed end to end finally become continuous tubes by the loss of iheir ends. 13. Tne most remarkable form of vascular lissue is the Spiral vessel, which has the power ol unrolling with elasticity when stretched. 14. Other kinds ol vascular tissue are inca- pable ol unrolHog, but break when stretched, 15. Spiral vessels are not found in the wood or b.trk, and rarely in the roots at plants. IG. "Vascular tissue of oiher kinds is confined to the root, stem, veins of leaves, petals and other pans composed of leaves. It is notlbund in bark. 17 The common office of the tissue is to con- vey fluid air, and not to act as the receptacle of secretions. 18. Cellular tissue conveys fluids in all di- rections, absorbs with sreai rapidity, is tire first cause of the adhesions th.at take place between coniianous parts, and is the principal receptacle of secreted mailer. 19. Adhesion will take place at all liraes du- ring the growing season, when the cellular lis- sue of two ditferent parts, or of two riillerent p.ants, i.s k"pl for some time in contact; but as none but tissues of nearly the same na'ure will adhere, grafting and budding, which are caused bv the adhesion of contiguous parts, can only take place either between different varieties ol the same species, or between nearly related species; and even then only when the c-orres- ponding pans ol the scion or bud, and the stock, are placed in contact 29. ''/oodv hire contains fluid in the direc tion of its length, gives siiiTness and flexibility lo the geiierol .'y.^iem, and dcis .-.s a prut ciiuii U) spiral and other delicate vessels, 21. Spiral vesseis con vey uxygenaied air, 22. Other vessels probably conduct fluid when young, and air when oM. 23. Asihe bodies ol which all Tissue is com- posed are perlectly simple, unbranched, and re- gular in figure, having when elongaied, their t wo exireuiiiies exactly alike, they are more or less cafiable of convey ing gaseous mat’er or flu- id.s in any direciion: and, consequtnilv, a cur- rent may be reversed in them without incut-ve- nience; hence, inverted cuttings or stems will glow. 24. All parts of plants are composed of tissue, whether fbey be soft, as rulp, or hard, as the bonv lining ut a peach. 25. With regard to Horticultural opera- tions, ihe pans of plants should be considered under the heads of Root (II); Lenf-buds Leaves (V); Flov^ers {V [)■, Sexes (VII); Fruit (Vlll)y and S«etZ(lX.) IL— ROOT. 26. The Root is the pan that strikes into the earth v. heii a seed begins to germinate and which afterwards continues to lengthen beneath the soil. 27. It is also the part which is sometimes emitted by the stem, for the purpose of absorb- ing nutrition I'rom the aimosphcrey as in Ivy, Air-Plants, Vit es, &c. 28. iTiUdisiinguished Irom the stem by the absence ofleaves in any slate, ol regular leaf- buds (iV); oT evaporating pores, or stomata (131); and of pitch in Exogenous plants. 29. Therefore, such undergroand bodies as those called Tuber (61) ia the Putatoe, Bulb (96) in the Onion; ana solid Bulb or Cormus [61) in the Crocus, are not roofi;. 30. The office of the root is to absorb food in a fluid or gaseous state, and also to fix the plant in the soil, or to some firm support. 31. The latter office is essential to the certain and regular performance of the former. 32. it is not by the whole of their surface that roots absorb food; but only by their young and ncwlv I'ormed extremities, called Spongioles. 33. Hence the preservation ol the spongioles in an uninjured state is essentia! to the removal of a plant from one place to another. 3-4.' A Spongiole consists of very young vas- cular lissue (12), surrounded by a very young cellular substance, (5). 35. h is thereioie' one of the most delicate parts of plants, and the most easily injured. 36. Hence whatever is known loproduceany specific deleterious actioti upon leaves or stems, such as certain gases (298), and mineral or ve- getable poisons, will produce a much more fatal effect upon the spongioles. 37- These organs have no power of selecting the f'ooil, but will absorb whatever the earth or air may contain, which is sufficiently fluid to pa.^s through the sides of their ii.ssue. 38 So that it the spongudes are developed in a medium which is of an unsuitable nature, as they will still continue to absorb, they cannot lail to introduce rn-itter which will prove either injurious or fatal to life, according to its inten- siiv. 39. This may often explain w'hy trees sudden- ly become unhealthy, without any external ap- paieiit cause. 40. Planis have the power of replacing .spon- gioles by the formation of' new ones: so that an individual i.s not destroyed by their loss. 4L Bill this power depend.s upon ihe co-ope- ration of the atmosphere, and upon the special vital po ier of the species. 42. If ihe atmosphere is so humid as to hin der evaporation, spongioles will have time to form anew, but if tne atmosphere is drv, the loss by evaporation will be so much greuer than can be supplied by the injured routs, that the whole system will be emptied of fluid beiore the new spongioles can form. 43 This is the key to Transplantation, (XV.) 44. As the roots are destitute of leaf buds, (i V,i and as leafbuds are essential to the mul tiplication of an individual, (108,) it should fol- low trial louuts can nevir be em|iloyed lor the I urpose ol muliiplicaiiun. 45. Nevertheless, roots, when woody, have,, occasionally, the power of generaiiag adventi-^ tious leaf buds, (I V,) and when this is the case, they may be employed lori.he purpose of multi- plication ; as those of Cyttonia, Saj'onica, &c. 46. The cause of inis power existing in some specie.s, and not in others, i.s uijknow n. 47 It is therefore a powe- that can never be calculated upon ; and r. hose existence is only to be discovered by accident. 48. Although roots are generated under ground, and sometimes at considerable depths; yet access to a certain quantity of asmosjheric air appears indispensable to the healthy execu- tion ot their functions. This is coaslanily ex- emplified in planis growing in the earth at the back ol an ill-veniilaied lorcing-house, where the roots have no means of finding their w’ay into the earth on the outside of the house. 49. It is supposed by some that the introduc- tion ol oxygen into their system is as indispen- sable to them as to animals. 50. it seems more probable that the oxygen ol the atmosphere, seizing upon a certain quan- tity ot carbon, forms carbonic acid, which they absorb, and feed upon. 51. It is at least certain that the exclusion oi air from the roots will always induce an un- healthy condition, or even death itself. This may be one ol the reasons why stifl, tenacious soils are so seldom suited to the purpose of the cultivator, until their adhesiveness has been de- stFovea by the addition of other matter. 5^ Spongioles secrete excrenaer.iitious mat- ter, which IS unsuitable to the same species al- tervviirds as food ; for poisonous sutistances are as latal to the species that secrete them as to any other species. 53. Bui to other species the excrementitious matter is either not unsuitable, or not deleterious. 54. Hence, soil may be rendered inifiure (or, as we inaccurately say, worn out) for one spe- cies, which will not be impure lor others. 55. This is the true key of the theory of rota- tati nof crops. 56. This also may serve to explain in part why light soil is indispensable to many plants, and heavy or tenacious soil suitable to so ie«': lor in the lormer case the spongioles will meet with little resistance to their elongation, and will consequent!) be continually quilting the place where their exeremen litious matter is de- posited; while in the latter case, the reverse will occur. [To be eonlinued.] A Fact for the Curiods — A. W. Palmer, ofCheam, in Surrey, England, tried a veiy stri- king experiment resi ecting the production of wheat In July, 1841, he put one grain of wheat into a common garden pot; in August he divided it into lour plaiit-^, and in three weeks again divided these mil) tw elve plants; in Sep- tember,these twelve were di v ided into tbirty-two, which in November were divided into filly ; and lie then placed ihenr in the open ground. In Ju- ly, of 1842, twelve ol them had failed, bat the remainder of them were healihy'. On the 19ih ol August they were cut down, and counted 1972 stems, with an average of 50 grains to the stem — giving thus the increase ol 98,600 grains. Milk. — Milk i.s a perfect food for a growing animal, containing the curd which is to form the musrles, the butter which is to supply the lat, the phosphates which are to build Ufi the bones, and the sugar which is to feed the resjii- ration. Nothing i.s wanting in it. The mother selects all the ingredients ot this perleer food from among the u.seless substances which are mingled in her own stomach with me food she ears — she changes these ingredients chemically in such a degree, as to present them to the young animal in a s ate in which it can niosi easily, and with least labor, employ them for sustain- ing its body- and all this she begins to do at a given and appointed moment of time. How beaoiiiul, how wonderful, how kindly provi- dent is all this!— 47 THE SOUTHERN Circulai' of Messrs, skiiiuer and < J’siieliy. AGHICULTURAL IMPROVEMENT IN VIRGINIA, MA UYLaND, CAROLINA, ETC. In unison with ihe views ol sundry Southern gentlemen who are warml}'^ interested in agricul- tural improvement, and in accordance with the inquiries of various friends in the Northern Slates, the undersigned are collecting statistics illustrative oi the vast neld for enterprise pre- sented by the uncultivated lands o! the Souiti. The dilapidated estates, as well as me virgin soil, in various sections of the bid S.)Uihern States, present attractions which would not long be slighted, were the tacts generally known. Thousands ol enterprising emigrants liom the Not them Slates would annually ductr to Vir- ginia in preference to the Western country, were her advantages presented in a manner cal- culated to arrest their attention At prtsent, all the Guide-Books for SeUlement point e.xciu- sively to the West: while examination and re- flection w'i.l probably satisfy any intelligent man that the world nowhere presents a better field for enlightened enterprise than islurnished by the millions ol acres which now invite im- provement in the high-land regions as well as in tioe-water sections ol the “Old Dominion/’ The natural advantages ol Virginia are un- surpassed by those of any country in the world. The richness of the soil in large sections of the commonwealth still defies the exhaustinir influ- ence of improvident cultivation. Even the “ worn out estates,” as they are sometimes styled, aiiound generally with mineral and lossil re- mains, admirably calculated to replenish the soil wherever mismar agement has robbed it ol qualities es-ential to successful fai ming. The land abounds, nut only with these manutes, but with other mineral treasures ol incalculable value. The moumains embowel iron and coal, transcending in quantity any poe^slble require- ments of the largest population which could be crowded lor centuries within that ancient com- monwealth; while the lime, marl and other na- tural fertilizers, abundant nea/ly every where in the State, furnish inexhaustible and cheap resources tor rendering Virginia oneoi the rich- est agricultural regions of the earth. The At- lantic and the Western waters, with numerous bays and liver.s penetrating various .-ectiuns, fiiinish fe,ciliii'=s lor commerce with other coun- tries, as well as ior easy communication be- tween the people in nearly all quarters of the Commonwealth. The value of the fisheries is laigely expeiieiiced, not merely in the tide-wa- ter region, biu to a gr^-at extent ihroush the in ieiior; and what territory anywhere surpasses the Virginia mountains in qualifications .'or sheep husbandry? Buperadded loall ihese con- siderations, and equally important with any ol them, is the mildness ol the climaie— an attrac lion alone sufficient to render Virginia desira- ble to ihousai.ds of enierprisinz: seitlers. who, wnen abandoning their homes in the North, would prcler the Souihera temperature il' it could be enjojeJ under advantages like those presented by the Western Biaies now most ra- pidly accumulatiog immigrant population. The men ol Virginia, lainiiiar with the ca reer vd Washinzton, need not be told that, with such e.xtrao: diuary combinations ot advanta ges, ihe “Old Dominion viuuld not now be ?a- zeed ill the scale of Stales, if the spirit ■ hi: h influenced that illustrious patriot had been con- iinnously applied tor the !a,'t halt century lo- watds the advancement of that Commonwealth in the career which he furesliadmwed lor i er in Agr c ilture. Commerce and Manufactures, ad- ditional to her political renown. The intercourse and correspondence woth which the undersigned have been favored by many di.stinguished Virginians, and also by gentlemen ol other Slates, such as Maryland, Kentucky, the Carolinas and Tenne.ssee— to- gether with personal observation and iriuch in quiry airionzihe farming community — induce the l ei ief t hat (7. syslcTnaiic effuri Jot ’proTRO'ins the sale and setllernent of uncvUiva'cd lands in those Stales, may now be made with strong hopes ( I successtul results. Unuer iliese circumstan- ce.=, il is deemed essential, by various Southern gentlemen, as wmil as ourselves, to collect all practical inlormation concerning the condition and price of lands in the regions above men- tioned, and all other information which the friends of improvement may choose to commu- nicate, for the purpose of extending a knowfiedae ot the advantages presented for settlers. The gentleman to whom iliis circular is addressed may therefore promote the object, if he approves of it, tiy communicating to the subscribers such fads a- he may deem pro; er concerning the number, extent, soil, co diiion, price and pro- ducts of estates for sale in his viciniiyq with the names of the owners or occupants, including jiariiculars concerning proximity to vvaier- courses and mineral manures; and maps of the land should, when convenient, accompany the descrqriions. Vv heie the lands are newq whe- ther in the mountains or oiherwnse, it is desira- ble to know the probable advantages for sheep husbandry and grazing generally, as well as for grain-giowing, especially as the highlands ol the Southern States are beginning to attract, as they may be made to attract largely, the atten- tion of w'ool-growmrs and graziers — while the va.st water-power abounding -in those regions, amid inexhaustible supplies of fuel, iron, &c., shoild be specified, as off ring multitudinous inducements for exiended manufacturing ope- rations. Gratified to find that the views here briefly expressed have me; with the cordial concur- rence ol gentlemen from the several States above memioned— gerUlemen whose approba- tion encourages this .mode of acquiring and dif- fusing information concerning the inducements for enterprise presented by the uncultivated lands within the borders ot those States — the undersigned will dose for the present, by men- tionins that their connection w'ith the friends of agriculture in various quarters satisfies them that the diffu'-ion of accurate infortnation is only' necesssary to attract enterprising settlers, whose capital and inUustry w’ould speedily bring into profitable cultivation millions of acres scattered in tracts of various sizes over all sections ot Virginia and the arijoiniog States. John S Skinner, Wnshinston, ^Former Edilor of the American Farmer.) He.nry O’RiKi.LY', AVbn.ny. (Ot the N Y. State Agricultural Society ) December, 1844. To Destroy Lice o.n Cattle.— Grease, fat, lard, or any oily sub.siance, if applied to neat cattle infested w iih pediculi, will have the desired effect; it must be applied by being w'ell rubbed into tiie hair on those pari.s where the vermin are lound, and repeated uniil they are destroyed. Insects have no lungs, but hieailie by spiracles or minute holes in theirbodies, and il these spiracles are clogged with grease or fat, thf-y become suffocated and die. Goose grease, hogs’ lat^ pot skimmings, wdll all answer the purpose, and may be obtained in any farm- er’s family withtmi cost. Tobacco, also, will kill these vermin on cattle, by its opt-ration on them as poison. A simple infu.sion of tobacco, applied warm and rubbed into the neck or dew- laps, or w'herever found, so as to completely wet the hairs, and repeated at an interval of a lew' days, will destroy me nits' and lice in a short lime and at a cheap rate. The curry- comb should be us d after the aj'plication. Subsoil Plows. — In many .soils, not other- wise rich enough for corn, it would be a good practice to make a furrow si.': inches deep, in the fall wiih a common plow, then lei a subsoil plow run in this Inri/ w ten or twelve inches mure; and it would be still better to put corn- stalks and other manure in this trench, and list it in, when thoioughly w'et, w iih a smalL plow' or hoe; the land to remain in this -state till planting lime. The subsoil plow is verv valu- able; bv its use the soil will be less w'et in great ra ns, and more moist in great drought. Where the subsoil plow is used, in comparison with only the common plow, the yield will be fifty ncr cell . moie, anu me crop m -jiy -.vea'iher al- ways green. Tire subsoil plow has iloabled and frequently trebled me crops in England. — Former and Gardener. L'l'BJ ai 1 .15 fr* idA A'b. Hazard, denslo'w & webster, Savannah, Geo., near the City Ilolel, Dealers in PAINTS, OILS, WINDOW GLASS GUNPOWDER, SHOT, PAPER. AND AGRICULTURAL IMPLEMENTS. in aediiion lo ilieir usual .stock of the above named ai tides, ihe subscribers have, -.vithiit the ast year, maue large additions lo their assortment of Agricul- tural Implements, and now offer to planters a greater variety ilian any other establishment in the Southern country: amongst which may be found the following articles, viz : PLOWS. Yankee cast iron, No. 10, 11 IZandgO Plow's. Dagon, or Connecticut wrought iSo. 1, 2 and 3 do Allen paltern, do I’ uggles. Nourse & Mason’s improved do Viz; — Eagle plow’, heavy, two horse or o.x, do do vvith wheel and cutler, do No. 2 B Plow, for two hor.-.es., do “ 2 B do w'ith wdieel and cutter, do A 3 do medium, two horse, do “ A3 do w’iih wheel aud cutler, do “ A 2 do light two horse do “ A L do do one mule, or garden do “ 6 in. do do one horse turning do “ 7 in. “ 15 do new pattern, 1 horse, for light soil, do Subsoil do heavy, two horse, or ox do do do No. 1 do do do do do dr> 0 one horse do Double mould-board or lurrowing do Cotton trenching do Rice do with guage wheel, do A 1 side-hill, or swivel mould-board, do No 0 do do for one horse, do Plow irons set up, of the above kinds ; also, extra slocks, which can be packed in small compass, ihereby making a great saving in Iransporiation Mr.uld boards, point.s and heels or landsides, tor all the above plows. Improved cultivators, willi guage wheel Cultivator plows, or horse hoes, Common Harrows Folding do improved kind, Boxed lever -Straw' cullers Improved self-feeding strew' and corn staikdo, w'ith spiral knives, simple in construction, Corn and cob crushers (hand mill) do do for horse power . HOES. W. A. Lyndon’s extra black jCarolina hoes. Nos. 0 .1.2&3 do bright do do 0. 1 . 2 & 3 do new ground do doPP&PPP do oval eye gru bbing do do 2&3 do round do do do 2 & 3 Anchor hoes do 00, 0, 1 & 2 Brades, patent do do 0, 1, 2,3ii’^’ FStiLiS SES3US. A GENERAL a.?s 'riment ol Iresli and genu- ine Garden and Field-Seed, among which are the lollnw'iiig ; Red and while clover, Blue and green grass. Rye and orchard do Timothy and herds do Millet and Lucerne do Seed corn of every valna- Buckwheat & potato oats, Seed wheat, [hie variety, Kept constantly on hand by the subscriber, all of which are offered for sale at very moderate prices. All oiders, by mail or otherwise, executed with neat- ness and despatch. Wai Haines, Jr., 1 No. g.l2. Broad •street, Augusta, Ga. THE SOUTH JULTIVATOR. HOTCHKISS’ PREMIUM VERTICAL VA'ATER WHtELS. From ih^ constant operation of neailvtw'o thonsand of these -wheels and their appendages, in differeio seel ions of the coun ir y, a nd ihe very high popular i I y which ihey have al tained wi ihi all tha-t h-ave had an oppnr unity of witnessing ihei? ext i aordi nary power, the suhseriber feels justified in giving pnblici' y to the folio 'i g staienien The use of these vvlieels when properly i nl roduced, near ly doubles the value o( the mills, and enables them to do a business wliich far exceeds the most sanguiiie expecta ion of their owners, ntany of whom are gentlemen distinguished for their science and praciical skill, and have attested to its truth The invention was not the result ot mere chatice, but of long and careful mathematical calculation, to which Ihe subscriber, who is a machinist by profession, has devoted most of his t i me,. and wtiich he would be happy to iilustralt and explain to any one who may de- sire information. Mil'wrights are particnlarly interest- ed in becoming acquainted with the principle and ope ration of this sort ofwheel ; first, because it p.reseiits sufficient inducements to mill owners to alter their mills, as it adds sc greatly to their value and that of 'he mill site, that would otherwise remain for yeats in their old imperfect conditi&H-t — and next, because they will, he catied upon to erect new mills, under such heads as would admit the use of no other wheet. New mills can be built as cheap on this as on the old plan. The old can easily be changed to the new; -iiid one year’s use of the improvement will pay the expense of alteia- tion. Many of these mills have cut ten thousand feet of inch pine boards in twenty-four hours, and over twelve thousand of hemlock joist in the ^ame period, making from 180 to 300 strokes of the saw per minute. With equal power and speed they will propel any other machinery that may be attached to them, and their du- rability alone is a sufficient inducement lor their uni- versal introduction. The subscriber could produce hundreds of certifica'es from gentlemen of capacity, inlell igence and integi ity, attes' ing the surprising power ot these wheels ; but as ordinary certificates carry bnl little influence, where the wri ters are not li nown, it is deemed unnecessary to gi ve them here. They embrace the names of gen- tlemen of the highest standing in various parts of the cou It try, and can be seen, together with an engraved plan of the invention and its appendages, by calling upon the proprietor. It has received the highest p-re- niium at Ihe Fair of the American Institute. ITS ADVANTAGES AKE Ist-The Vertical Wheel when nsed for saw mills, requires no gearing to pto duee from 17-3 to 3(>f slroltes of the saw per minute ; 2d —They are as cheaply cons tract ed as the common, flut- ter wheet, and will do double the business with the same advan lage of water; 3d — Backwater is no impe- diment xvhen there i.< a head above ; 4ih — Ice cannot form on the wheels ; 5ih — They r/ccupy much less space than a lliitler wheel mill ; Cth— Tlie increased speed of the saw makes be' ter lumber, cuts the same distance with less resistance, and the saw dust is freely tlirown off, wh’ch often returns with the saw, causing it to bind and heat, with slow rnilfs ; 7lh — They can be placed on the shaft of a common fii-vlter wheel mill, if in good order, and hung upon the same bearings if su f- ficietii ly strong to sustain the power of the wheels; 8th —The wheels bei ng of cast iron, will last an age. They also const i tu ' e the requisi le fiy or balance wheel, securing a uniform motion, in all parts of each revo- lution ; 9ih —The introduction of mills is reduced to a plain system, so that if the head of water is known, the' result is a mathematical certainty; lOth — Any workman havi tig the paHerns, a model and table of calculations, can adopt mil Is loany location, with pet lect success; 1 1 th— The improved mode of feeding is much approved of, by tho.se who have adopted ft. The undersigned tespecllully calls the attention of all persons interested in mills, to Ihe foTlovr’ing certiff. cates of Mr. Dove, and Col Gamble, and the card ac- ccompanying them. Arra RAT, Feb. 17, 1845. Mr G. IIotchkiss—'Dea.r ■. The success of the ex- periment I have made o( your Vertical Wheel, in my saw mill, has been so coaiplele — its execution so far beyond my most saiign i ne an tici pal ion. that I cannot forego the pleasure of adding my mite of testimony to the many certificates you already have of the excel lence and superiority of your improved Vertical Wheels Although I h ive undertaken but a moiety of the im- provements proffered to be made by you in the ma- chinery of my mill, yet with all the inconvenience of worn and defective works, (your wheel being all that I have put in,) inadequate to co-operate with the evol at ions of the 11 eu-, I ha ve no hesi tat ton i n saying, that the value of my mill has been doubled Previous to the change, I could saw with the old machinery 1700 feet of inch boards per day. but required a full head of water — with the same head and the same labor, I can now, with ease, saw 3000 feet I have formerly lost an average of fifty days in the year, owing to the j frequent repairs necessary from the breaking off of buckets in the flutte/ wheel, and inability to work in back-water — all of which delays will now be obviated by the durability of your wheeks and their adaptation to work, even when covered with the back-water. To propel my old wheel, it required 300 inche- of water and 7| feet head ; under w’hic h the saw gave 160 stroke.- per minute, thecr-.aiik r2 inches: — your wheel requires but ’210 inches of water u-iih 7 feet head : and gives the saw -280 strokes pc mi n u te— crank the same. Oil Wednesday, the Igih instant, I gave the mill a trial for the purpose of testing your woiks, to \t hich a number ofgsnileinen were present. It cut a line in 2 minutes ai>d 20 seconds, through a 12 inch stock, 20 feel long; and cut 2 lines (including setting Ihe log) in 5 ii>iiu>les ; in 15 minutes, it cut 260 feel, of inch hoards ;- completing 2125 feel of inch boards in 6^ hours I cheerfully recommend your improved wheel to the attent ion nl m i I l-nwners, as bet ng far su perior in cheap- ness, duralulity and fitne.-s. to any thing I have before seeir. a-nd am confident that any oire w itnessing the performance of in V mill, will go and ‘'do likewise." Respeelful ly, ynrurs, J. A. Dove. We, the undeFsigned, attended at Mr J. A. Dove’s mill, on Wednesday. I2th instant, for the purpose of wi 1 ne.ssing its operat ion propelled by Mr . G. Hotchkiss’ Vertical Wheels, and cordially unite in endorsing the above slaJemeni of Mr Dove, as to its operation on that day We also hereby express nu,r uiiq.ualified ap- prohatioir of the pre-eminetiee arrsi’ val ue of your wheel. E Palmer J B Martial Joseph D Thomas D-ivid F Dickinson S Sumner L B Beal LauJTrotii L S Gatlin .John Chavous Benj H Harris S M Cadle Augusta. Feb 19, 1845. ' I have examined Hotchkiss’ Vertical Water Wheel, now irr operation at Mr Dove’s mill, in this county, and have no hesitation in declaiing it as my opinion, that it is the best application ot water power for dri vi»g machinery, that I have ever seen ; aird Ironsider it for mills -and manufacturing generally, as one of the most valuable improvements of the day. Roger L. Ga.mble. I-elters addressed to me at Augusta, or my agent, R Guernsey, will receive prompt allentiori. 113= All infringer-nen's upon rny patent, will be pro- ceeded against to the extent of the law. 3 GIDEON HOTCHKISS. BATON’S S.ArtEJ TARIPS. Anew ARTICLE, superior to all oihers for this purpose, emitting a good clear light with- out smell or smoke, at an expense, counting lard at 8 cents a pound, of about a quarter of -a cent an hour. These Lamps have been satisfactorily tested, and are recommended as “just the thing’’ for the use of pl-an- ters, and ail others who study utility, neatness and eco- nomy. A supply of the above Lamps, with Fillers and Wicks for ik&m, for sale by i Havtland, Rislev & Co. TEXAS COTTON SEED, subscriber offers ibr sale, Cot- ton Seed of very superior quality. The original stock was procured in Texas, and culti- vated on his plantation in Newton county, for the last three years, with extraordinary success. The yield is mucli larger, and the quality superior to the Petit Gulph or other kinds of Cotton usu ally grown in this section of country. Planters who purchase a supply of the seed may rely upon suliicient increase in product of the first crop to refund the outlay for seed. Planters who ta ■ e an interest in improvements of this sort, are referred to tire annexed certifi- cates, and the Cotton raised from the seed may be seen at the warehouses of Adams & Hop'Tns and Clark & Roberts. JOHN W. GR.WES. A supply of the above described Cotton Seed is offered for sale at the following places, at five dollars per bushel : Adams & Hopkins’s Warehouse ' Clark & Roberts’s do. D’Antignag & Evans’s do. Hand & Williams’s Store, McKinley & Martin’s Store, Madison, Hill, Morrow & Hill’s Store, D. Dickson & Co.’s Store, Augusta. J Social Circle Madison. October 29-, IS44. Dear Sir— I regret it was not m my power yt s- terday, when I saw you, to give you any opinion with regard to a small lot of cotton 1 have grow- ing from seed presented to me last spring by my friend John W Graves, Esq. Since then, how- ever, I have been to my plantation and made com- fiarison ol it with my crop of cotton, and now take pleasure in saying to you, it is a superior ar- ticle in point ot fineness and length of fibre, con- taining more lint on the seed, and will yiehi much more from the same quantity ot land planted- J am respectfully, dear sir, Your obedient servant, [Signed] Wm. Johnston. G eorgia, Newton^ Cou n ty : I hereby certify that I obtained from John W. Graves, of this county, a sack of Cotton Seed, (which he represented o' superior quality intro- duced from Tepcas,) which I planted last spring, find to exceed my most sanguine expectation. 1 planted u two ,r tiiiee w-e.-s aiter my oilier cotton, (vvhich is the Petit Gulph,) and notwith- standing the season vv s drv and unfavorahle throughout the vear (the growing season) yet it is by far the best cotton I ever made. I think by the time it is all gathered, the be -t pan will yield 2000 to 2.500 p'jiinds pei acre. My neighbors who have :seen it are of tne sane opinion. Prom the trial I have made, I believe it vvill yield double as much as my other cotton on land of the same fer- tility [Signed] Jackson Harwell. ■24th October, 1844. Georgia, Morgan County ; This is to certify that i am neighe ’•to JoLlT McNeil, Esq., and that he last spring nt a load of Texas Cotton Seed from John VV J.-aves, Esq., ot Newion county, and [ilanted them on what I consider average land of his farm j and from frequent observation of tlie crop, with his other cotton, (which is the Petit Gulph,) I do be- lieve it will tarexcel any other cotton I haveever seen raised in this section of country. And I also believe that the staple ex.’els any other I have ever examined. a.=i tu fineness and color [Signed] John P. Evans. Augusta, October 30, 1844. John W. Graves, Esq. : Dear Sir — Having been called on by you to make a statement in relation to your Texas Cot- ton, we take pleasure in saying, that for the last two or three years we have received at oar ware- house your cotton crops. The quality has inva- riably proved very superior, both as to color and length of staple. On sale, it has always br( ught the highest market price. VVe consider it a very superior article in the cotton line. Your obedient servants, Adams Hopkins, Mr. John T. McNeil i Dear 8ir — We have received the two bales of Texas Cotton sent by you to us, and take pleas- ure in saying that in color and length of staple it is superior to anything we have seen ; and cheer- fully recommend it as such as will always bring the highest market price. Your obedient servants, n5-wp&Ctt Clark & Roberts. COUTEHTS OF THIS TiUMBER. Analysis of Soils and Crops — suggestions,, ... ,page 49 Ar 1 icboke, the. . “ 45 Census Takers, to “ 43 Circular of Messrs. Skinner and O’Rielly “ 47 Colman’s European Agriculture “ 44 Corn, close planting of — An Experiment. .... . “ 39 Fact for the curious “ 45 Farmers “ 45 Farmers’ Boys, to. “ 45 Flowers, charcoal as a mamire for “ 41 Hemp, culture and water rotting of “ 3-3 Horticultural Outline— ('continued) “ 46 Lice on Cattle to destroy “ 47 Manuies, Dr. Porcher’s Report on “ 37 Meeting in Mtlledgeyille — Address ts Ihe Peo pie ot Georgia..; “ 42 Meeting in Harris County — preamble and re- Planters, advice to “ 42 Plows, subsoil “ 47 Tobacco, Cuba, cultivation and curing of “ 35 Warm Bed lor Pigs “ 45 Editorials, etc. -^Manui es ; Colman’s European Agri- culture; Pork and other ma Lets; 1 be Cash System ) Political Economy I Plows; Grape Vines; Lard Lamps; Improvements in Vit ginia, 40— 41. Brcn rn Corn, -33 ; Law for the Pi oleclion of Fruit, 43; A Cure. 45; To secure handsome Baisams, 45 ; Milk, 46. @:l)e Soutl]crii (Jlultiirator Js published on the first of every month, at Augusta, Ga , BY J. W. & VV. S. JONES, PROPRIETORS. EDITED BY JAME.S CAMaK, OF ATHENS, GEO. TERMS.-ONt DOLLAR A YEAR. 1 copy, one year oo | 25 copies, one !/«ar,..$20 oo . 6 copies, 5 00 ! too copies, “ ,.75 00 I All subscriptions must commenc with the volume.) Ths Ca h SV'Te.m will be rigidly adhererl to, and in no case will ths paper be sent unle.ss ths money accompanies the order Advertisements pertainingto Agricuitu e, will be in- serted for -'N D M L H for every square of ten lines or less, for the first insertion, and seventy-five cents per squ are for ea h continuance ST Masters are authorized to receive .and for- ward ni'Uiey fr e of postage 5X3^= A L C.’MMUNICATIONS MUST BE POSTPAID, and addressed to JaMBS CAMAK, Athens, Georgia. From the Albany Cultivator. Agricuiture aiid Rural Economy of the South. Dear SiR:~Press of business, alone, has prevenled my carrying out my intention of ad- dressing von, as 1 promised in my last, on va- rious subjects ot interest to us here; and in particular of replying to Mr. Camak’s call for aid in introducing the olive to the south. He does me but justice in supposing that no effort on my p.art, within my power to make, would be wan ing towards the introduction of any plant that would add to the wealth of my adopted country. Among others 1 have often thought and spoken of the olive; but felt so much dis- couraged by the fact that my father-in-law, Mr. Isaac Dunbar of this place, has repeatedly in- troduced varieties of that plant without success, the frost destroying them, that I entirely over- looked the extract in Kenrick’s worh. Since reading Mr. Camak’s article, I am resolved to make an effort to procure the Nikita olive and give it a fair trial here. The difficulties, how- ever, which a private individual has to contend with in such an effort, are very great. In ray own case, the only course I can pursue, is to request my correspondents in Paris to make every exertion to procure some plants for me. If some others would do the sa ne, we might, some one of us, ulti.mately succeed. I have long ceased to expect that the General Govern- ment will give any such aid to the farming in- terest. That every effort slieuld be made by the south, to introduce other staple crops than cotton, is very certain. The over-production is so great that prices cannot improve; at present prices this troublesome crop cannot be grown with profit— in fact not without loss — and the only possible means of lessening this over-produc- tion, is to induce the cotton planter to turn his attention to and employ a portion of his farce in o;her crops, or in auxiliary branches of econo- mical husbandry, if evum these pay no better than cotton does now. Here it is that a State Agricultural Society and farm, liberally sup- ported bv the State, would give proof of their value. Those experiments in 'he introduct on of new staple crops could be tried there, which cannot be well done by individuals to any ex- tent, with justice to themselves. Any planter can, however, after a few years, carry on upon his plantation many practices of economical good management— to some of which I will presently advert, 1 prepared a series of resolutions some weeks ago, which 1 intended submitting to our Ag. Society at its bu-siness maeting after our lajst Fair. But so great was the political e.xcite- ment at this time, that I regret to say a sufficient number of the members did not attend on that day to form a quorum. As another business meeting will be held about the time your Janu- ary number will have reached us, ".hen I in- tend bringing the matter forward, I wilt give you these proposed resolutions here: “Resolved, That it is the opinion of this So- ciety, that the pre.sent ruinously low prices of cotton, ari«e almost wholly from inordinate over-production. “■ That a committee be appointed to prepare an address to the farmers of the cotion-growirg region; setting forth the absolute necessity that exists for an entire change in the system of farming pursued among us, so as to lessen the quantity of cotton produced — to employ a con- siderable proportion of the labor of our slaves in the production of other staples ; and of all the supplies necessary for the plantation which can be so produced, if not with profit, at least without loss. “ That they shall include, in their address, all the information they can procure as to the staple crops which may be so introduced; with short notices ol the system of culture necessary for each ; cost of production compared with cot- ton, &c. “That the use of cotton bagging, in baling, be particularly considered ; information acqui- red as to the cost, in plantation labor, of its ma- nufacture; strength requisite, &c. ; and the par- ticular grounds that may exist tor objections, if any there be, to its use. “That they also inquire, whetlnr the esta- blishment of cotton factories generally within the cotton-growing States, would not have the ■effect of counieractiog the combinations which are formed in the foreign markets to keep down the prices ol the staple. — Whether, such a de- mand for provisions may not thus be created at home, as to render their production at least as profitable as that of cotton, and thus divert a considerable portion of the labor nowemploved in the over-production of the latter — And if, in the judgment of the committee, manufactories within the cotton region would produce these results, what mea.sures can be best adopted to encourag-e their introduction. “ That they shall submit their address and report at the next regular meeting of this Soci- ety.” In all enlightened governments^ but our own, agriculture receives powerful aid and support; nntso much by means of protective duties and imposts, as by the wise measures taken for its relief when in any manner oppressed. Witness, in Great Britain, the frequent appointments ol committees of the House of Commons, to ex- amine into the causes of results the most trivial when compared with that now in question, and with power to call before them for information, individual and documentary evidence from eve- ry part ot the country. Although we, in this country, have no such powerful aid given us, we migtil do much good by such a plan as this here proposed. Some weeks ago, I had some inquiries made of me by a gentleman in Natchez, who inlormed me that be was one of a company formed with the view of shortly erecting an oil mill there ; chieflv with a view to making castor oil. 1 as sured him, at once, that the bean can be gruwn with profit by the planter; and promised to grow, next year, an acre or so, each, of the cas- tor oil bean, sunflower, and Bene; also to try the Madia sativa, of wbR-h I have a small quaniiti of seed. In Illinois large quantities of.the Palma Christi bean are grown, and the manufacture of castor oil is carried on with much profit. The farmers, there, so far as my recollection goes, found the bean, a verv remu- nerative crop. I neither remember the ave- rage yield per acre, nor the usual price, but have taken measures for refreshing my memo- ry. Canyouaidme? Ifyou have files of the (Chicago) Union Ag. and Prairie Farmer, I think you will there find all the information wanted. It grows spontaneously along our road side, producing, I think, quite as good crops as those I have seen in Illinois. I have a variety of it in my garden of extraordinary and productive growth. A plant of it, which made its appearance in one of the borders, a volunteer, quite late in this present season, has attained a large growth. At five feet Irom the ground the stem is 15 inches in circumference; there it throws out three branches the tops of which are 17 feet from the ground, and spread to a diameter of 12 or 14 feet. Where the branches spring out, a spike of seeds has been ripe this three months; and now at the top of each of the three branches is a very heavily la- den spike, the seeds in which are not quite ripe ; though they certainly would have been had the seed been planted sufficiently early. The beans of this variety are very large. \ find on trial that they weigh an average of six grains each. The stem and leaf-stems have a reddish tinge; the plant altogether forming quite a handsome tree. Last winter was so mild with us here that plants of this variety stood uninjured, and in the spring threw out multitudes of flower spikes. I am perfectly aware that a plant of such gigantic growth would be illy adapted to field culture, as a crop in rich land ; I mention it merely as a prool that there is nothing un- congenial in our climate to the growth of the Palma Christi; and because 1 think that this »ort would do well as an aftercrop, say on oat stubble; and then have abundance of time to ripen iis seed. The Bene grows vigorously, and produces an abundance ot seed; so, I am fold, does the Madia sativa, although 1 have no knowledge of it myself; the sunflower I know will do well — all of these yield a very large proportion of va- luable oil. I have grown a small crop of Havana tobac- co this season, which is said to be of fine quali- ty by those who profess to be judges, When prcperly cured and made into cigars a better opinion can be formed. I cut this three times, and each culling was good; if planted early, and a handful of cotton seed or some other equally portable and effective manure ht-ed in round the plants at the second cutting, I have no doubt but lour cuttings could be had at each season — the two last of course of inferior tobac- co. The gentleman before spoken of, Mr. Isaac Dunbar, has for many years made his own wine. That which he exhibited atour last Fair was pronounced decidedly superior to any he has ' ef'ore shown. I think it was the best na- tive wine I hav^. ever met with. Mr. D. has a vineyard of sufficient extent to make a few bar- rels of wine, and leave enough of grapes to give even his negroes a fair share. His favorire grape is the Herbemont Madeira — as being perfectly hardy and requiring but little atten- tion. At our summer Fair, this season, oae gentleman exhibited seven varieties of grapes, principally European sorts. The variety that does best with us, is one kn own the gra.pe. What it is I can on,ly guess at. The vine is of a vigorous, healthy habit; young wood having a reddish tinge, resembling the cigar box and Norton’s seedling; the bunches quite large and shouldered; the berries, which are entirely without pulp, are of sizes varying from that of an eighty-to-the-pound rifle bullet, to that of an ordinary sized buckshot; juice a 50 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. rich claret culor and very abundant ; the flavor line, with a delicious admixture of sweet and sour; and forming altogether, wheu fully ripe, a most delicious table grape. If Mr. Camak will intorm me by letter or otherwise, how to forward to him, I will have much pleasure in sending a couple of plants, that he may test this fine fruit in his region. When I have again leisure, I may have somewhat to say on the cultivation of the vine, through yours or some other journal. I, will only now add, that excessive deep planting will assuredly prove injurious. Moderately deep planting, however, tke soilbeing of a provorlion- ate depth, is by all means advisable. W ith you in th • north, even as far south as Cincinnati and Nashville, and in the colder districts of Eu- rope, the vine is trained low that it may benefit by the reflection of the sun’s rays from the earth ; while here, and even in l.itiludes north of us, to avoid this, and to secure the lull benefit of the shade afforded by its own foliage, and all the air possible, the vine requires to be trained high — over a ten or twelve feet arbor, if possi- ble. I must pass over the subject of “new staple crops,” on which a lengthy series of papers might be written. Indigo has been successfully and profitably grown here — the sole objection to it being the difficulty of making sale of the entire crop without having to seek for a market. Madder, I am confident, would find its most congenial climate and soil here. It is a native of a southern clime, and requires just such a warm, light soil as we can here furnish it svith. Bread, meat and clothing, every cotton plan- tation and can in'cxi\^)x for its own con- sumption, and even for sale, and yet g^ow as much cotton as should be grown. In fact, there is not a doubt, but if such a system could be generally introduced, cotton would again com- mand a remunerative price. Other itemsshould be included — comforts instead of blankets; lea- ther lor shoes and harness; tobacco for the ne- groes ; bagging made at home, ot cotton ; hay grown for stock and for sale ; all the mules and horses needed, raised at home; a flock of sheep kept, sufficient not only to clothe the negroes, but to afford a considerable return for wmol and mutton; butter made for sale, the butteimilk being decidedly more wholesome for the negroes, young and old, than sw^eet milk, especially in summer, and any tidy old woman can easily ra.ake more in the dairy than in the field; and many other ways in which hands can be em- ployed to at least as great advantage and profit as in the cotton crop — wdth the great additional advantage of thereby lessening the ruinous ever-production of that staple. I have already written you, thus far, a most egotistical letter; too much so; and yet 1 do not see how 1 can so well sustain my assertion, as to the practicability of this change in our system of farming, as by giving my own expe rience. True, this experience has not been great — but it has this advantage, that though but of three years standing, it has been acquired in the face of serious difficulties. 1 had every thing to buy but corn — and even some little ot that. So, wdth your leave, I will continue as 1 have begun, and give you a little more oi Ego 1 — premising, that in good and economical ma- nagement, 1 am far, far behind many of the plan- ters of this region, as v't. Corn can be grown here quite as well as in N. York, notwithstanding the opinion of that en- lightened soiUhern gentleman, w'ho made such wonderful discoveries relative lo the climate of the south — see the garbled edition of Johnson’s Farmers’ Encyclopedia. I am now offering 200 bushels of corn lor sale, being my surplus of this year’s crop, over the requisite supfiiy for that plantation. Wheat, also, will do .veil at least two seasons in three ; if w’e had a sort .suf- ficiently early to ripen before excessive warm weather, 1 do not believe this crop would be any more subject to failure than with you. The “Valparaiso,” of which I received a small quantity of seed through the Patent Office, was entirely destroyed, this year, by rust. It tillered well, and the heads when coming in bhiom, were very large. I mean to secure a supply of all Mr. Harmon’s sorts against another season. Egyptian or winter oats do remarkably well. They are sown in September or October, and af- ford capital pasture all winter, and a fine yield of grain, ripe early in May. Forty bushels is spoken of as a good, fair crop : one bushel sown produced me twenty. 1 prefer this grain to rye. It commands readily from sixty cents to a dol- lar according to the supply. My pea crops, with the gleanings of the sweet potatoe lots, will fat- ten my hogs this year — a trifling quantity of corn may be needed. Of sweet potatoes, tur- neps, Irish potatoes, white beans, rice, hay, fod- der, pindars, &c., I have hitherto found no diffi- culty in growing in abundance. Cattle, unless where the range is extensive and good, or where the planter has formed good Bermuda pastures, I do not consider profitable stock here — at all events, by no means as much so as sheep, hogs or mules. To raise one’s own meat, requires a good deal ot care and at- tention—but it can be done profitably and ad- vantageously on any cotton plantation. A lit- tle over two years ago, I commenced operations with eight thorough bred Berkshire sows, as many good common ones, and two or three fine boars, of different families of Berkshires, in- cluding imported Newberry. This fall 1 will kill a fair supply of meat, and offer some thirty or forty fine, youn?, in-pig sows for sale, being unwillingto kill them while they are so much needed in the sou h. 1 offer them at less than the price of a liarrel of pork— $10. I lost, last spring, over one hundred pigs and shoats of a disease in the throat, caused, I believe, by theireating young coek-le-burr plants. Such, too, is the opinion of my overseer who had charge ol them — Mr. Plamilton— a very intelli- gent,~obseiving man. When turned out ol the field where these grew, the hogs ceased dying and got well — when put back there they became sick again, and many died off, In addi ion to this, I have lost, in spite of every precaution, a good many thtough my own and my neighbors’ negroes — no matter how much meat they may get, both salt and fresh, the negroes have a par- ticular liking lor fresh pig, killed and cooked on the sly, as school-boys say. All this, how- ever, can be prevented.- And even supposing that from ten good sows, one hand devoting his entire time and attention to them and their pro- duce, 50 hogs of 200 los. each can be killed per annum, that hand is doing a fourfold better bu- siness than at growing cotton. Moreover, the hogs being during the picking season in the pea field, the services of the hand can be had at that time, when they are most valuable. 1 think [ can have two hands supply the slaughter pen with three hundred fine fat hogs, each year, and attend to the breeding and stock hogs also. I feed much cotton seed, thoroughly cooked, and a small proportion of meal, with salt and ashes added, and occasionallv pumpkins and lurneps, boiled with it— and with decided economy and advantage. For-sheep, as I have often assert- ed, this is the finest country I have ever seen, and I think myself tolerably good author ity in ihe matter. This, however, may very fairly form the subject of a separate article. Clothing — this too, requires time and atien- tention ; but there is nothing else needed to ena- ble any force of negroes to manufacture the materia! lor their cwn e]o\.hing, ivith profit to their owners During winter the women can- not be so well empKiyed in any wmy as in spin- ning up the wool — particularly w’here a carding machine is accessible. One wmrnan, keeping a ^spinning machine and a loom, going all the year, would spin the warp and weave the cloth fora very large place. Those spinning tna- chines are a great co ivenience — they spin six threads at a time — the gin saws taking the cot- ton from the seed— the brush placing it on the cards when ginned, w'i ere it is carded, and then spun direct from the cards, all at one operation. Mine was made by Pearce & Co , Cincinnati, and cost S130. We have now, in Natchez, a very excellent manufactory established, and now in the hands of a most energetic bu.siness man— Mr. McAllister, ol the firm of McAllis- ter & Watson— who is proving that such a con- cern will succeed in the South, afiord a profit to the manufacturer, and be a great source of convenience at.d economy to the planter. Lin.'^ey, jeans, all kinds of cotton goods, including bag- ging and sacking, bale rope and twine, &c. &c. Also burring and carding wool at so much per pound. Mr. McA. began by pledging himself that he w'ould manufacture for the planter, from his own cotton and wool, fabrics of any kind to cost him, at least, no more than he could buy it for of northern manufacture, allowing a fair price for the raw material. The cotton bag- ging, made fer Mr. Isaac Dunbar, out of most indifferent cotton, wmrth perhaps one or two cents per pound, is a very superior article — better, in the opinion of many, than the hemp article. I have little doubt that the cotton ship- ped from Natchez will be, half of it, put up next year in bagging ol cotton — if the planters con- sult their own interest they will do so. It all the cotton made in the Union was packed in this material, we would have the crop le sened or consumption increased rather, to the amount of 22,500,000 pounds, or 56,250 bales — being five yards of bagging, weighing 9 pounds, for two and a half millions of bales. Bale rope and twine would swell the amount to over 70,000 bales. - Mrs. A. is just finishing off a lot of over 50 double and single comforts for the negroes, in place ot blankets, which cost an average of about $1.12 each — not including the labor of making, which in fact may be so much wet weather time of the w'omen’s labor saved, and it is well repaid in the difference in the cost of blankets. Had we not made comforts, I would have required over 45 pairs of blankets — diffe- rence, to pay for the making of the cotnfort-, at least $120. This has been our first experiment in comtorts, though some planters here have used them for many years. The use of com- forts ha.s ether advantages — see the extra con- sumption of cotton — then the women are all taught to sew belter than they would u'^ually do. Many other items of economical manage- ment of the plantation might l^e mentioned, each ol sufficient importance tor a separate ar- ticle; but I must now close, with the hope that every planter who has the good ol the south at heart, and who is desirous (..(lessening the over- production of our main staple, will never cease to act, to talk and to write with that object in view, until public attention is drawn effectually I to if. Yours, (fee., Thoma.s Afflsck. Ingleside, near Washington, Miss., Nov. 16, 1644 Corn-Stalk Sugar. — In our May number of the volume lor 1844, we gave a communication on this subject Irom Mr. .lohn Beal, ol New Harmony, Indiana. It appears that Mr. B. has been still more‘succe.s.sful the present rear than he (vas last. We are informed that he has made three hundred and ninety five pounds A good sugar this season, !rom the corn stalks .vhich gtew on three-quarters ol an acre, which is at the rale iff five hundred pounas per acre. His plan is said to be as follow.'^: ‘AVhen the ears begin t ) form they are pulled off. W’hen the leaves ?ire dead about hall way up, the stalk is stripped of leaves, cutup at the root, the top cut off’, and then ground in a sugar mill. Twenty .Rta.ks will yield about one pound and a half, and of this three-fourths is grained sugar. Mu B. made eighty pounds in a dav, w ith a simple apparatus of his own con.«lriietion. Five hundred pounds, at four cents per pound, is twenty dollars per acre. It would have pipo- duced, say fifty bushels ol corn, at twentv-five cents, or twelve collars and a half. — Albany CnUivntor Egyptian Cotton. — Mr, White, of Louisi- ana, has on his plantation a cotton stalk, from Egyptian seed, about fifteen feet in height. Mr. White obtained twenty seeds, gathered from the garden of the Pacha. He thinks, if care'ully managed, it would probably yield ficm 25f0 to 3,000 lbs. of seed GQU(An to the gcre. ■.jBaiae; THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 51 From the Albany Cultivator. Practical Husbandry. Improvement of Worn Out and Naturally Poor Old Fields, &c., in the Middle Stales. I intimated in a late paper in the Cultivator, (vo.. 1, p. 344,) that i tvouia shortly give the readers ut that excellent work an answer to the qnes ion Aotc the improvenrent of the finds of iaiid mentioned in the heading of this article, could be acsomplished in the cheapest way. 1 now proceed to the fulhlmcnl of my promise. Land is poor or rich from various causes. It may be oor naturally, from being deprived of the accumulation of decomposed organized mat ier, by the washings of rain, the overfl >wing of streams, &c., a;id by its own gravelly and po- rous nature, admitting the up'.var' filtering of spring water, as is the case in low gravelly b n- toins. It may also be poor from the too large a portio'.i o. iron in its composition. But the most universal cause of poverty of soil, is exh.vustiox, from over-cropping, taking always, and return- ing noihing; as was s i generally the practice in old times, and is too much the practice now in ali the nidJle States. In a former paper I have expressed the opinion that a man may purchase and improve a piece of this poor or worn out land cheaper than will be the cost of removal to, and purchase of a piece of land in the west, especi il- ly when the sacrifices incident to such removal are taken into the account. I most sincerely be- lieve in the truth of ih s proposition. But let in uroceed to tlie subject — the how, not the ichy, this land should be improved. The first object to be attended to in the im- provement of land, is the grubbing up and clear- ing off every tree and shrub that is not wanted. Let this be done, at the beginning. Allow no clumps or clusters of bushes or briars, or single ones either, to remain in the field. The next thing is ditching and draining ox ail sunken and boggy places, if such exist. Very often the sim- ple plow furrow will answ'er, but sometimes a deep ditch must be dug. If it be deep enough, a blind ditch should always be preferred, so that you may cultivate the land over the d teh, and also save your land the ineonvenience of open ditches. Having grubbed and ditched, and thus drained the land, the next object is to ascertain the quality of the soil, ali pans of it. You may find that the low places you have drained are compos d of hard clay. Borne of the upper or higlier places may be too sandy. You will m such case, employ your carts in carrying clay to the sandy parts, and return with sand m the clay- ey parts; and be very li teral in your exchanges, too. You may spread the clay at once, or allow it to remain a winter in cart load heaps, and spread it in the spring. The sand rhay be spread, of course at once. Ali this isjuerely getting tlie land ready- A carpenter builds his shop, and ‘•'gets out” his stuff, before he thinks of “going to work” at his trade. So does every other ar- tisan or m.echanic. Why should a farmer not, also, before he goes to work to make money and a living, first “gel his shop in order?” Having properly grubbed, drained, and mixed the soil, the next thing to be done is to as ertain the qua- lity of the whole. It most probably wants lime t ) make it complete. Take a handful here and there from the whole field, say twenty handsful in all; mix them well together; then take a hand- ful from the whole mixture, put it up in a shovel and heat it red hot; then take it from the fire and let it c .;o! ; when cold, pulverize it into a fine pow’der, and pour upon it good cider vinegar ; diluted muriatic acid is 1 est.but vinegar, if goad, will do; if it fbams c insiderabiy, you ivant no lime in the soil ; it it does not foam, you must then apply lime, .nearly all the land in the mid- dle States wants lime, and is benefitted by its application. I^ it wants noliine, then go to woik as follows; plow in the fall with the deepest working plow you con afford. In the spring, sow corn broadcast ; and as soon as it is as high as you can well turn under with a good p'ow and twoorth ee horse team, turn it under well, and immediateiv sow corn again broadcast; as soon as that is high enough to turn under, turn that also with a deep wotking p'ow. Generally you may turn under three crops in the same season. In the tall plow deeply in turning the last crop of corn under, hair.ovv and s“ed wi‘h wheat. However poor your land may have been, you may be sure of a goodcrop of wheat t e ensuing harvest. In sowing the corn, about three to four bushels should be sown t the acre, each crop. If by the trial above described, you find yotir land requires lime, then, before the first plow ing, apply twenty bushels of slaked ime to thr acre, broadcast, then plow ns beloie dirt cted, sow the corn, and rocecd as before, taking oire to sow' ! wenty bushels of lime ■lefore turning u.-.der each crop of corn; sow the lime on the corn as it stae-ds, and turn corn and ime ali in together. In tliis w'ai'.a first rate soil may be nude out of the poorest old fisliin Maryland or anywhere else; and it w'lll be observed that the only cost is in the liming and value of the seed corn, ex- cept the labor. Those who cannot afford to ex- pend so much labor and money the first season, can extend the time over 'everal seasons, apply- ing say twenty or thirty bushels of lime to the acre, and turning under but one crop ofcorneach year. The above may be consiiercd a br ef summary of the while argument; and, it seems to me, scarcely requires elucidation Some may how- ever req tire explanations, and I therefore proceed to give them. A ciny soil only requires "sand to make it a good one, s ) far as coiisrituti mis concerned; a sandy soil requires clay to make it good. These two elements of a good soil generally exist on all farms; and wherever they do exist in separate places, they should be combined and mixed, that the whole may be made fertile. If your land be too clayey, and you have no sand on your farm, probably some neigh 'or would be glad to ex- change some of his sand for some of your clay, doing half the hauling, and thus both farms will be benefitted at half the labor each. Rely upon it, there-is more to be obtdned in the imnrove- mentoflandby a judicious admi.xture of soils, than is generally supposed. Manuring cannot supply its place, however large the quantity ap- plied; and when once made, the efiectis perma- nent, th benefit perpetual, the i reprove men t iast.s for ever. Low wet places are not only unprodaciive,.but they are unhealthy, unseemly, and an absolute loss of all tlie land so situated. . If vour farm consists of one hundred acres, and tv/enty acres of it is of this low and wet kind, you have but, eighty acres of land. Therefore drain, by ditch ing this low land, make it productive, by'adding sand, tfec., w'here necessary, and you will in ef- fect have addeo twenty acres to your farm. And in draining, take care to avail yourself of the ad- vantages of blind ditches. I do not suppose it necessary to tell you how to make them — the way may be found in almost all agricultural works; and they are very simple. A summary of the different plans may be stated as follows ; Dig the trench as in the usual way of making an open ditch, of the proper depth and capacity, to carry off the water. Then lay in the bottom of the ditch, stones loosely packed, so that water will freely pass between them, ab.outafoot deep. Then lay upon these loose stones, larger and Hat ones, to keep the eanh from filling the in- terstices^ and then return the earth thrown out, leveling the whole siirface. Some, instead of stone, lay in the bottom of the ditch, branches and limbs of trees and shrubs, and cover these with earth ; but such blind dilches are obvious- ly subject to obstruction from the decay of the wood, and thence from the cavina in of the su- perincumbent earth, Others, In Europe especial- ly, use an arching of tiles in the ditch instead of stones or brushwood ; but this is too expensive for this country as yet. Where stones can be had, a good blind ditch nay be made permanent- ly effi'ctive by their use; next to stone, brush- wood is to be preferred. It surely cannot be necessary to say a word in illustration of the grubbing up of ail useless growths of bushes, trees, &c. Never ail. v/ your fences to be sheltered by bii-lies or trees of any kind ; they rot the timber, and you lose all th • land they occupy. “Headlands,” as they are called, are just so much deducted from x our measure of acres. Clear out all such. If you have no otiTer dean, place in your field, let the headlands and fence corners be clean. In ascertaining the precise quality of the soil, you accomplish precisely what every oilier ar- tisan does when he ascertains his abi'ity to do a certain job. You find o. A what the materi ds vou are to woik upon are capable of producing. It in that cxaminaii jn, you find your’ m iteriais d' ficie.at in any one necessary injredient — lime, for example — von. as other artisans would ns- eessaiilv and instinctively do, apply lime. If you find it dcdcien- in vegetable fibre, &c., you appiv that substance, and if you find it deficient in clay or sand, as either o these preponderate, you aj’piy one or the ot .er, as the result o; the examination shall indicate. Having picpHr-u liie soil for the reception of manure, t.ie cheapest auo most eliicient method tini material for supplying nutiitious principles to the s.dl, if the next matter for consideration. I believe liiat corn sown broadcast, as above di- rected, is the cheapest, most efficient and speed- iest fertilizer, ^lome, and very many, suppose that the id plan of clover laying is the best and ch-apest I differ with them. You can only turn under a crop of clover once in two years; you can oy an efio t ruin under three crops of corn in one year; and I beiiove that each crop of corn will carry as much nutritious matter into the s .!• as each crop of clover can do. Now inihi- system ofimpruvement, you have only to purcii .se the lime, it that be necessary; you can r iss the seed corn on s jiiie part of tUe farm. a1. tli„- rest of the improvement is derived from labor. Ne . er uiacerta.- e the impioteinent of more land than you a e cfei tain you can manage, if you e.xpend your funds upon too large a surface, you will be likely to lose the whole advantage of them. Calculate hoiv much land you can work well, and confine you- seif to that and no more. And in ali your operations in agriculture, take care not to undertake too much- Suppose you can only work ten acres well in one year, if you undertake twenty acres, some of it will have in- justice done to it, and the result is obvious. Deen plowing is one of the most efficient agents in the improvement of soils, asitisin the continuation of good soils. Never omit it. It may pay you scantily for a year or two ; but it will ultimately repay you an hundredfold. With- out it there cannot be any continued successful farming, no matter what the oiiginal s il may have been. Discard all shallow working plows from your farm, except the mere seed and culti- vator plows. Some lands will be benefitted by fifty bushels of lime to the acre, and by it be rendered suffi- cientlj' calcareous; others may require onehun^ dred bushels; aU this is to be found out only by proper experiments, as above indicated. It the solution ofthe soil foams lieely in the vinegar or muriatic acid, it wants no lime ; if but partially, it wants probably fifty bushels to the acre; if not at all, it may require an hundred bushels. If it be a red clayey soil, it wants more lime than if it be white, or blue or yellow. If you have m lime, and wood ashes are at hand; you may accomplish all the objects you aim at by their appUcaiion. As ashes are most- ly composed of different kinds of lime, besides their more soluble potash, from fifty to one hun- dred bushels of ashes to the acre, applied in the same manner as directed for lime, will have the same effect as lime, besides giving you the ad- vantage of the potash, the first year. Where nei her lime nor ashes are to be obtain- ed, plaster of Paris, as it is called, may be applied to most lands with advantage. The action of piaster continues to be a subject of dispute. My opinion is, that it simply serves the purpose of fixing the ammonia floating in the atmosphere, and that evolved from docaying animal matters, and thus seeming it to the uses of the soil. No matter what its mode of action is, however, it certainly is a very efficient agent in soils gene- rally, and in the absence of other still more ef- fective agents, it should always be used, or at least tiled. I have said noihjng of fencing, the most ex- per sive item of farming, because it has nothing to do With the main object of this paper, and be- cause the cheapest fence is t at which each lo- cality can afford with the greatest facility. One farmer can build a stone fence all around his farm, easier than he can a rail fence, simply be- cause he has too many stones on his land, and in irettine lid of them he hauls them to the line where he intends to make ins fence, and in the seasons when he cannot be more profitably em- ployed, he erects the wall. In the absence of stone, and wliere timber is plenty, the rail fence, the post arid rail Nc., will of c.mrse be the cheap- est feni ing. I have no favorable opiin m of hedges, excrpt in the absolute absence of both stone and timber. They require a long time to grow ; and in this country there is not a single 52 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. kind of hedge plant that has succeeded satisfac- torily. There are a few in stances of good hedges being made^ but I will venture to say there is not one in the United States that can be imitated pro- fitably as to cost, time and eflBciency. If nothing but live fences had ever been in use, and some inventive genius had discovered the use of artifi- cial fencing and stone, he would have been con- sidered the benefactor of his age. For myself, though I have travelled much, and have exiend- ed my observations over fifteen of the States of the Union, I have never seen a good efficient hedge occupying the place of ordinary farna fen- ces. And yet the attention of farmers has been directed to it ever since the country was settled ; the oldest American writers recommend them ; seeds were imported to plant them a century ago ; and all these efforts have been continued to the present day with increased force each year. And yet there is not, so far as I know, a single farm in the United States protected by hedges, in all its parts, or in any considerable portion of them. The economical farmer, therefore, will look to some other mode of fencing for protection ; and, as said above, that which his land affords most plentifully and most easily of access, is the cheap- est and best for him. I must not omit a few words more upon deep plowing. I know it is the general opinion that we must not plow so deep as to turn up the hard pan" of the clay, or the white gravel, &c. &c. I am very certain this is a great popular er- ror. If we had a plow that would turn up the earth two feet deep, I do not care what the sub- soil may be, in five years the fertile soil would be two feet deep. I admit, that generally a very stinted crop would be produced for the first two sr three seasons; but I also assert, that the third or fourth and all subsequent seasons, will pay not only for all thedeficienci'’s of the first two or three, but an hundred fold interest. Wherever a deep working plow has been used, the drouths of a dry season are not felt. The roots of plants pass deeply into the earth, and the burning suns and parching winds pass over them harmlessly. The subsoil plow is a good thing. It enables the farmer to avail himself of most of the advan- tages of deep plowing without any sacrifice of the first and second season’s crop ; but then it does not turnup this subsoil^it merely loosens it, enabling the roots to pass deeply. The roots, however, get no other advantage in this deep rooting, than that of protection from drouth; they get no nourishment in those depths. The protection from drouth, however, is an impor- tant consideration, and should always be availed off But I would seek this advantage always when I could by the use of the deep plow, even at the sacrifice of a portion or even all the first two or three crops. The saving of manure is the next, and though last here, not the least important matter for con- sideration, Every. thing of a vegetabL' or ani- mal kind, useless for other purposes, on a farm, should be gathered aad saved for manure. A convenient compost yard and pit should be pro- vided. The dung from the stables, the weeds from the fields, the chaff and offal straw, corn- stalks, &c., the kitchen waters, contents qfeham^ bers, and all of such things, should be cast into the pit. The pit should be so situated that the drainings of urine, &g., from the stables should pass into it. A shed should be built over it to protect it from rains, and the effects of the sun’s rays. Plaster, of Paris should be sown over the surface cf the manure pit once a week during warm weather, to catch and fix the volatile am- monia that will be cont.nually passing off. If such a thing as a leisure day happen, (which, by the way, I do not see how a good farmer can ever feaye even a leisure moment,) the leaves from the •woods may be profitably gathered and thrown into .the pit. Twice a year, say in April and Oc^- tober, the contents of the pit should be taken out, thoro.ughiy mixed and piled up to digest for a week or even a month. In forming the piles, if you have any swamp mud or bog earth, you may very properly add two or three loads of this to each load of the ccutents of the pit, taking care to mix them well. After the pile has stood a sufficient length of tims, the compost may be carried out and spread oyer the land, either as a top dressing, or to be plowed in before seeding. These are my views of • the improvement of .worn out and all other land. I submit them with .great deference to the farmers of my country. - huuld they disagree with me in any ,o,r all par- ticulars, I trust they will attribute rny errors to at least good motives. I desire to do some good in my day, and the agricultural interest is. above all others, most worthy of my efforts, in my opin- ion. It certainly has my best affections and wishes. Baltimore, Nov., 1844. Gideon B. Smith. Frum the CambridgeXMd.> Chconicle. On the Culture of Indian Corn. [From a paper read before Dorchester Farmers’ Club ] The question of the best method of culture of Indian corn, is one .of primary importance; and reports of the various experiments that have re- sulted favorably, may tend to settle the interest- ing problem. The partial practice of my method “ by late fall or winter plowing” and “drill planting,” lor more than fifteen years, and my exclusive'adop- tion of it lor half that period, and the obvious reasons in favor ol it, have concurred to satisfy me, by the general results, in various kinds of seasons, that it is the best mode of growing that valuable staple of ourcoiintry— and, atihe same time, of sustaining or improving the soil on which it is grown. I would be understood, in my remarks, to confine them to lands having a due portion of alumina, and at least a moderate coating of gras.s, or vegetable matters ol any kind, on the surface. The method is the following: During the winter, or late in the fail, the field is plowed under a true and well turned furrow’, sufiicienily deep to avoid re-turning the sward in the subsequent work; (the accuracy of this operation will have considerable influence on the eventual management and success of the method;) if well done, there will be but little occasion tor hog labor, to clear away the grass, asbut little will vegetate from ifie inverted sw'ard. In this state, the whole will remain till the season for planting, when a light plow is skim- med over the surface in the direction of the first furrow. The “ corn planter’Tsthen introduced, which furrows, drops, covers, rakes and rolls the corn, in one operation ; or, it may be done, though more tediously, without this instrument’. The lines in which the grains are dropped, are four feet apart; the grain in the lines, about twenty-four inches, and two plants lelt. When the corn is sufficiently large, a light double-furrowing, single-horse plow is run as near to the plant as possible, throwing the earth from it, and as soon as convenient, the earth is returned to it. This is the whole of my plow'- ing — then follows the cultivator, as shallow and lightly as possible, to keep the surface at all times friable and open to the free access of sun and air, and not omitting the roller w’henever necessary lor fine pulverization, which is in all cases essential to good culture. The drier the season, the more the cultivator is used. The hoe is but little required in ordinary seasons for the grass- and nev.er, ip any season, to make the slightest hill— and the general cultivation is as level as practicable. By the free admission of the fermentative agents— sun and air— the inverted swmrd will I'urnish the soil with the soluble and nutrient gases. The products of its deco nposition, which, though volatile, will be fixed by their union with the moisture, alumuia and other sub- stances in the soil ; and this process will happen, chiefly, at a time to meet the peculiar demands of the plant, whose organic structure and vital powers will enable it to seize upon, eliminate and apply to its uses the nutriment thus fur- nished; ammonia and nitric acid, there gene- rated and preserved, will abound in the soil ; and in tact, a quasi nitre bed is formed among the .spongioles of the roots, which will nof only yield the gases it may contain, but it wdll, as is known to every physical inquirer, abstract from the atmosphere, nitrogen indefinitely, without which element, a deficit ol frequent occurrence, the grain, though it may form and ripen, yet will not contaia an essential constituentof food for animal sustenance By the culture contended for, the porous sur- face of the inverted turf is presented as a sponge to imbibe readily the ammonia and nitric and carbonic acids, held in solution by the rain and snow w'hich fall upon it, and become fixed as before explained, for the use of the present and future vegetation. Contrast this with the usual practice of spring and summer plowing, and cross plounng ; the sward iTecently turned, is ihrowm back into its former position; the grass is. as it were, re-planted for much hoc labor, as it had not re- mained in a condition to suffer decomposition ; or, so far as it had undergone this process, the products are wasted by exposure on the surface to the action of the sun and ak, and a total loss to the plant and soil, or nearly so, is the inevi- table consequence. By planting too, we may have more than double the number of plants that the usual me- thod allows in safety. Leaving tw'o plants at a point, the distances named, will make about ten thousand slocks to the acre, and the lines arranged in a north and south direction, they will have abundance of space for air and light. Practically, I have found this to be true. My crops have suffered from drouth less than those under the ordinary practice of cross plowing, which is manifesily to be ascribed to the con- tinual flow of vapours among tbe roots and their ascent around the plant from the ferment- ing mass below, promoted by the frequent use of the cultivator, preserving a loose, open sur- face, and allowing the free entrance of ihe fer- mentative agents, heat, air and moisture. Much mote, in foxt and in theory, might be adduced in favor of the praciice indicated, but my paper has already exceeded the limits de- signed,and I w'iil not now' extend the disenssioD. Feb. 12,1845. Joseph E. Muse. From Ihe Magazine of Horticulture. On the Cultivation of Lettuce so as to prQ» duce successive Cro^is the year through. As lettuce is more or less used in every fami- ly, the mode of obtaining it in the greatest per- fection, throughout the year, in regular succes- sion, may not be unacceptable to a portion of your readers. Lettuce is growm in considerable quantities for the market, and fine heads may be obtained nearly the winter through ; in the months of December and Janpary, owing to our severe weather, it cannot be grown as large as it can in the climate of England, without too much care and expense ; but later, when hot beds do not suffer from extreme frost, it may be had in the greatest perfertion. Notwithstanding let- tuce may be found in the market of such excel- lence, few' individuals, except market gardeners^ understand its cultivation during the winter, and on this account many gentlemen are depriv- ed of this desirable vesetable during that season, w'hen it adds so much tp th^' luxury ol tie table. The following remarks are the results of se- veral years cultivation of lettuce, both for pri- vate use and for the market; and it the direc- tions are carefully fbliow'ed others may be equally successful. Selechnn of Sorts. — There are a Dw’ leading points to be strictly adhered to, and which ought not to be oveilooked, if Igtiuce of a superior quality is the object of the cultivator. The ten- nisball, royal cape, and green curled Silesia, are probably the best for spring use; the imperial (true) is the most worthy of tfie cultivator’s trouble, in order to have a good .supply through the summer; and the green cabbage, or hardy hammersmith, foi the winter crop, it is of the greatest importance to obtain the seed true to the name, and not hybridized ; what makes the careful selection of the seed of so much conse- quence is, that all the care and labor bestowed on the culture ol these plants, if raised from spurious seed, approaches very nearly to labor lost. It is well known, although not so uni- versally as could be w'ished, that a great por- tion of the varieties ennmerated in the cata- logues are not woilh growing jn this climate; the c,os lettuce, so much qultivgLed in Englan4, THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 53 and deservedly so, is rarely ever seen in our markets; inlact, all the hybrid varieties, raised from the cos and cabbage lettuces, being inter- mixed, will not generally be such as would give satisfaction in this country, and more especially it the variety partakes most at the cos parem. j Observe therefore to procure chxaice seed of re- spcni'^ible seedsmen. Compost for the Flan's. — A light, rich,- fria- ble soil, and oi l hot-bed manure, — or manuie that is as near as can be of the same nature, — well blended together, will ensure success ; for framing, the compost should be an equal quan- titv of manuie and earth ; this is the secret of j obtaining fine lettuce; tor wherever fine lettuce is lound, extra culture produced it. For open air culture, the ground, however rich it may be in appearance, if not by the recent application of manure, ought to have a bountiful dressing, which should be dug in about three inches be- low the surface ; but belore this the ground should have been in fine condition, either by deep plowing or digging- the reason why the manure should not be buried deeper than pro- posed is, that 'he roots may take hold of it at once, and that the plants may make a rapid and luxuriant growth. Sowmg the Seed. — To have a regular suc- succession throughout the year, several sowings will be necessary. The first, or spring crop, should be planted from the 15th ol February to the 1st of -Vlarch; the second, or summer crop, during April; and successive sowings in June and August. For the last, or winter crop, the loth to the 30th of September is the proper pe- riod. The seeds generally appear the lourth or fifth day, and the firsr transplanting should take place ten or twelve days subsequent to their ap- pearance. Cultivalion of ike Spring Crop. — Early in February prepare a small hot-bed, unless one is made up lor cucumbers, and the seed ol the ten- nisbali, or royal cape, may be p'anied in flower- pots or boxes, it must be borne in mind that only a moderate heat is required forstarting the plants from seed. Six inches from the glass is a proper distance for the young plants; give all the light possible through the day, and air every day that the weather will admit of it; the frame must be well secu.^ed from frost, which would destroy the plants, and it should be covered eve- ry night as long as the cold freezing weather lasts. The plants will require to be twice trans- planted—first, from the seed-pots or boxes, about three inches apart, each way, in order to be- come strong, health}'- plants, for their final re- moval to the beds where they are to remain. This may appear to those persons not already acquainted with the process, to be superfluous; however, it is the only way to succeed. The final transplanting out into frames should take place as soon as the plants are readv, — il the lennisball and royal cape, or Silesia, about nine inches apart, each way, will be found to be a pr per distance. Regular attendance to the watering, giving air every favorable oppo.'-tuni- ly, and coveiing over the frames every night in seasfin, is ail that is necessary to ensure fine early lettuce. CuliLVcUion in the open air. — Early in April seeds of the lennisball should be again sown, ' and the plants will be ready by the middle ol May to transplant. It will be necessary at this season to allow about filteen inches between the rows, in order to admit the Dutch hoe, or scuf- fle, to advantage, which should be trequenily used. The imperial should succeed the crop of tennisball and Silesia, and the first of May the plants will be in readiness. Continue to plant as before advised, every month or six weeks, from early spring to autumn, and select a CO 1 situation for the late summer crops. CalLivation of the Winter Crop. — This is the sowing requiring the most attention, and which is to supply the table from January to March. Select a warm situation in the open ground, and manure the bed well, and dig it deep; make the surlace level and smooth with a fine rake, and it is then ready for the seed. The hardy ham- mersmith is the variety to sow now; draw the drills three inches apart, and cover the seeds lightly. In a few days they will be up and grow rapidly — and in October they should be transplanted” into beds, where they are to be pro- tected from frost. These should be common hot-bed- l>au>es;-. and as soi.-n as the nig-Uls be- came cool, the sashes should be put on,, removing them early every fair day. On ihe approach ul severe cold, secure il>e plants Irom the eflec's ol frost in season, lor freezing and thawing wou-ld nearly destroy the whole. Very little water will be needed, unless there should be a continuance of fine weather, till Christmas, when they will require moderate waterings. Give all the light and air possible, and keep the plants clean and free from damp, by picking off all decayed leaves as soon as perceived. In December the plants will be very strong and stocky, and ready lor removal to hot-beds, or pits in the green-house, where, with the or- dinary treatment, they will soon iorm fine large heads. From lime to lime, as a succession is wanted, the plants can be transplanted from Jrames to heal, until the season arrives for the spring crop. Necessity of Rotation. In one of the lectures of Prof. Johns'.on we find the above named doctrine made so plain that any body can understand it. We commend it to all who suppose that because their lands do not give out in two or three years, they never will. “ The following table shows the quantity of inorganic matter in 100 lbs. of hay; — In rye grass hay. Red clover. ’While do. Lucerne. Potash,. 8.8 19.9 31.0 13.4 Soda, 3.9 .... 5.3 .... 5.8 .... 6.2 Lime, ...7.3 27.8 23.5 48.3 Alumina, 0.3 .... 0,2 .... 1.9 .... 0.3 Oxide of Iron, 0.0 .... 0.0 .... 0.6 .... 0.3 Oxide of Manganese, 0.0 .... 0.0 .... 0,0 .... 0.0 Silica 27.7 3.6 14.7 3.3 Sulphuric Acid 3.5 .... 4.5 .... 3.5 .... 4.0 Phosphoric Acid. ...0.3 .... 6.6 .... 5.0 ., , .13. 1 Uai bouic Acid. . ... . 0,1 .... 3.6 .... 2,1 .... 3.2 The soil must contain all of the above, other- wise it cannot build uplhe plant which contains them; and just in proportion to the supply of the necessary ingredients, in their proper pro- poriions, will be the luxuriance or siuntedness of the crop. Every plant that grows requires, in accordance with the nature and composition of soil, the proportion of the ingredients in its ashes, if no alternation of crops is made, nature will become exhausted in some of her resources, and the plant, for want of nourishment, must die. We have facts to prove that nature will not for ever grow the same plant on the same soil. The Black Forest consisted first of oak, then of pine, and now it is again covered with broad-leaved trees; and as with trees, so with crops — and as on a large, so on a small scale. Different modes of husbandry have been adopt- ed, Instead of oats being grown fifteen or twen- ty years on the same soil, the rotation of three white crops and six years’ grass was adopted; this also has become antiquated, and now the preferable alternation of white and green crops is adopted. Alternating crops, and adding such manures as have been carried ofl by preceding crops, is the only profitable mode of cultivation, while nature will also assist by the going on ol certain circumstances, such as the decomposi- tion of minerals, &c. A soil containing just sufficient lime for a luxuriant crop of rye-grass, would be fardeficient for either cloveror lucerne. The soil must contain in abundance what your crop specialty requires, and consequently the necessity of selecting the manure to suit the crop wanted; and skilful farmers will put this prin- ciple into practice, and also select crops suita- ble for the purpose to which they are to be ap- plied; thus, if you wish to feed for milk you must select a plant containing an abundant sup- ply of phosphoric acid; and this plant will not grow on land which has been exhausted of this acid, though it contain all ether necessary in gredients in abundance. The ground becomes exhausted in many ways. By cropping too long with either one kind or different kinds of grain, and carrying off both grain and straw, it becomes exhausted very .speedily. It becomes exhausted of some ol its soluble mailer by the action of rains, just in proportio.n to the wetness of the soil. By the application of proper manures, the waste may be replaced. Feeding will re- place a portion ol the waste of solid matter; but a great portion of the soluble is lo-st, both by being, to a small extent, irrecoverable, and because ol the direct waste by carelessness or ignorance. These soluble or saline substances aie principally contained in the urine of cattle, and j ust in proportion as it is lost, so is the direct waste. The urine of one single cow is valued in Flanders at £2 per annum. What, then, must be the loss on the whole of the cows in Great Britain'? Guano, is not a more valuable manure than the urine c> cattle; and yet farmers carry off this f’om ihefr yards by large ditches, as if It were only, what it has been too long considered, a naiscDce, while they will give .£10 a ton for an article ot no greater value. By building suitable tanks, the whole ol the farm- yard saline matter might be preserved, and 900 lbs. of good solid matter, equal to the best Pe- ruvian guano, would be the annual produce of one cow. Tanks ought to be made capable of containing all the urine voided in four months; they should be divided in the middle, and one end when filled, should be allowed to ferment. This fermentation would be completed in about six weeks, when it should be carried to the land and applied as we now apply guano and water. In the process of fermentation, ihe ammonia is apt to escape; but by mixing the urine with three times its bulk of water, this will be pre- vented to a very considerable extent, as shown in the following table : Saline Mailer and Ammonia in Ihe Urine voided by a Cow in iwelve monlhs. Recent urine contains — lbs. lbs. solid matter, 900 Yields of aramonia, 226 Kept 6 weeks — mixed with water, .....850 “ " 200 Kept 6 weeks, unmixed,, . .650 " “ 30 We have frequently been astonished at the results ol certain saline substances when scat- tered over unhealthy plants, by the first shower washed into the soil, and immediately consumed by the plant as its proper and necessary food; and just in proportion to the ease with which it gets the substances upon which it is supported, and of which it is composed, v/ill it vegetate. Suppose any of the substances of which a plant is composed to be already in the ground in suffi- cient proportion, then any addition cannot do good. Suppose soda to be in sufficient quantity for hay, any addition would be unprofitable for a rye-grass crop, while it would be of immense benefit to double the quantity for clover or lu- cerne. And again, some soils contain it in suf- ficient quantity for every variety ol crop, conse- quently any addition would be unprofitable.— Hence the reason of so many conflicting opin- ions respecting the utility of manures, A. B. has a field deficien l in the due proportion of gyp- sum; and, by applying it to his crop, he finds the most beneficial effects. C. D. hears of these results, and applies il to his fields, which have already an abundant quantity of it. but require something else; and the consequence is, it does no good, and he pronounces it worthless as a manure; and his next neighbor, E. F., who would have been benefilted by its application, has been dissuaded from applying it. Milk contains so much bony earth chat in seventy-five years a cow pastured on an acre of land ■will carry off a ton ol bone ; hence some lands used for dairy purposes in Cheshire had, in the course of years, deteriorated to such a degree that they weie not worih more than from 5s. to 10s. per acre, just because the cows pastured on them had carried away all the bone out of the soil. Bone dust was at length applied as a top dres- sing, and the results were so astonishing that the land increased 700 per cent, in value, and the rector’s tithes were increased five fold. Any or all other manures, had they wanted bone, would have proved ineffectual. The bones added just what had gradually been taken oft in the lapse of years, in consequepce of the pecu- liar husbandry of the district. 54 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. From Ihe Soulhfrn Shield. Barbour County Agricultural Society. A meeting of the Barbour County Agricul- tural Society was held this day in the ; caclemy in this place. The Pre.sidenr, Col. John L. Hunter, in the Chair, and, in the absence ot the Secretary, Benj. Gardner was requested to act as Secretary. Col. Hunter, the chairman of the committee appointed at the last meeting, to prepare an Ad- dress to the President ol the State Agricultural Society, on the importance of adopting some ac- tive measures lor the promotion ot the interest of the cotton growing section, submitted the fol- lowing: - To the Holt. Henry \V. Collier, President of the State Agricultural Society of Alabama : Sir : —In obedience to a resolution of the Bar- bour County Agricultural Society, the under- signed have the honor to address you on the pre- sent condition and future prospects of the cotton planters, and through you, as an honorable me- dium, to communicate to them their views and sentiments on those interesting and important subjects. The cotton market, on which depends the prosperity of our southern country, threatens distress and ruin ; but a small further reduction in the price of our southern staple, and our com- munity will be driven to seek another culture, or have the mortification to behold their lands and negroes valueless and an expense on their hands. It is true that the abandonn>ent of the cotton culture, would eventuate finally in advancing the price, but in the interim the planter must endure heavy losses and great suffering. The time has passed away, when our people were buoyant with the hopes of the sudden accumu- lation of wealth, the mania for speculation in lands as well as in negroes has departed, leaving us to serious and sober refleciion, and we trust under Divine Providence, with future les- sons of experience and wisdom lor our further guidance, benefit and happiness. God in his wisdom afflicts mankind, but in his mercy points them to a remedy. The causes of our distressed condition are few, obvious and stri- king. « * * * * The chief and greatest source ot ihe evil lies notin legislation, but in a law of trade that can- not be regulated oy it. Every planter must know that supply and demand will regulate the price of cotton; and whileourpTnterscontinue to raise hundred^ ot thousands ol balesover and above the wants of the raanutacturers and their customers, the price must continue to decline until a ruinous business drives him from his folly of overproduction. The consumption for our cotton has increased, and will continue to increase, but the production outstrips it. A small crop would command as much, ifnot more, by the augmentation of the price, than a large one; besides he saves the expense (no small ilem)oIextra baggingand rope, and isable to devote his labor to'a larger provision crop — to the improvement of his land and stock and to other additional cultures more profitable than cotton where the climate is favorable, to wit: wheat, hemp, rice, sugar and tobacco. Tf’.e cotton planter has been stimulated by the former high prices he obtained for his coUtm until he has become so Infatuated with the cotton culture, as to direct all his energies and resources to it at the expense of everv other in- terest to the almost entire neglect of his means of comfort and independence on his plantation. Fortunately it is within his power to correct this evil; to arrest the downward tendency of the cotton market, and to avert the impending ruin. Independent ot the consideration of ad- vancing the price of cotton it is his true policy to cultivate a large provision crop that he may have an abundance in a nad season and to spare, and a greater abundance in a good one. He should calculate to have provisions to sell to those classes who do not cultivate the earth, and in this way, to pay all the incidental ex- penses ol his plantation. He will then have no more cotton in cultivation than he can com- fortably and neatly harvest by the 24th day of December; and in the months of January and February, generally cold and inclementand un- fit for ertton picking, he can more advantage- ously turn his attention and devote his labor to neees-sary repairs, to the improvement of his soil — to the improvement of his .stock — or, in other words, to go more upon farming, and deal more mercifully with his lands, his laborers and stock, and to receive from them a gratelul return, to make him comfortable and indepen dent on his plantation, as he ought to be. It is his policy to encourage the manufacture of cotton by using and consuming in his dress and in his household whatever articles can be made ol cotton. In the cotton region, it should be the pride of our ladies, who are always fore- most in every good word and work, to prohibit by their use, precept and example, the use of any article not made of cotton, where the cotton fabiic can be made to answer their purpose — the silks should give way to the fine chintzes, muslins and calicoes, so well calculated to add to their personal comfort and beauty. It has been stated in a late periodical that cotton ap- plied to the use of matresse.*, comforts and blank- ets for the consumpt.on ol the southern States, containing five millions ot population, would amount to more than 200,000 bale.?. Another still larger source of consumption W'ould be found in using cotton cotton-bagging for wrappers for o ir bales. We do not know that cotton is more impervious to water than hemp and it w'ould be vvell to give it a lair trial. Our Slate Legislatures should not be back- ward in such times as these to develope the re- sources (.f their respective Sia'es and call forth their energies and direct their citizens to an ad- vantageous division of labor from the culture of cotton. Alabama abounds, in some districts in coal mines and marble quarries, which might turnish a large portion ot laborers now in the culture of cotton, with more profitable employment. In conclusion we beg leave to recommend a convention of the cotton planters ol the southern States, to be held at some central situation at as early a day as practicable, to devise and con- cert measures for their own safety and relief, and we w'ould rely on their intelligence, good sense and honesty, in carryingout the decisions of that con vention. Should a large portion ot our planters, however, persist in their lolly, not- withstanding the admonitions of their experi- ence. and the action of the convention, to plant a largs cotton crop, the market will continue to decline, and render the culture unprofitable and expensive; but such planters will stand in no enviable position in point of interest, and will reap the harvest due their folly. We would mo.st respectfully solicit your co-oneration and action in accomplishing the objects so desirable which have called I'orth this communication. We have the honor to be, wvith profound re- spect, your obd’t. serv’ts., John L. Hunter, 1 J. A. Calhoun, > Committee. R. C. Shorter, ) Col. McDonald, from the committee appoint- ed to address the planters of Barbour County upon the propriety and necessity of greaily re- ducing their cotton crop, presented the follow'- ing: " To the President of the Barbour County .Agricultural Society : Sir; — Having been appointed a committee to address the farmers of Barbour County on the present state of the cot on marker, we enter on the duty assigned us with a knowledge ot the difficultv of persuading the cultivators of the soil to change their system. From the extreme low price of the great south- ern staple, at the present time, it is obvious that a change must take place, and the sooner it is commenced the better. When we look abroad, over the world, we see an increased accumula- tion of cotton to an ext-snt heretofore unknown. it appears, from the latest accounts trum Liver- pool, that ihe slock on hanri amounted to 750,- 000 bales, which was an increase on the stock at the corresponding period in 1844, of 100,000 bales, and the price, a penny lower than it was at the same time last year. Large stocks, in Europe and in this country, indicate low prices, for sometime to come: lor when the immense crop of 1844 reaches England, there will, in all probability, be an increase on ihe present stock, of 100,000 bales, and a corresponding reduction on the price. An inquiry naturally arises, what is to be done? The answer is at hand. Let us greatly reduce our cotton crops, which will enable us to prepare for market a better ar- ticle~ii will also enable us to improve ourfarms and thereby prornole our happiness and comfort. Let us, at ihe same time, greatly increase our provi'ion crops, making a large supply of pro- visions of every kind. We would also recom- mend that a portion of the labor now employed in the cultivation and preparation of cotton, be turned into other channels — the raising of rice and tobacco, as well as the growing of wool. We believe that these would be much more profitable than cotton at the present prices. Thus, fellow-citizens, have we thrown loge- gether, a few hasty thoughts f r your cori.?idera- tion. ' A. McDonald. J. G. Shorter. J. Buford. Col. McDonald, also, made the lolicwing re- port in relation to some seeds, which had been forwarded to the Society; To the President of the Agricultural Society : Sir: — On the 19th of last March, I received, by the kindness ol Mr. Woods, from the Hon. H. L. Elsworth, the following seeds, which were sent to the So iely by the Hon. Mr. Belser, viz: Tne bassana beet, the rnulticauli rye, from France, the white fiint wheat, t* e calico corn, the Calcutta flax seed, ilie pole bean, the twin corn, the rnulticauli rye, of the United States, and the white prolific bunch bean. I irnme- dicTiely turned over the seeds to the President of the Society, keeping a few ot each kind t-i sow and plant. On the 27ih of March, I planted and •sowed them in my garden, ha ving some fears, however, that tlie rye and wheat might not ma- ture, sowed at that season ot the year, but fear- ing that they would be rlestroyed by the weavcl, 1 thought it be.?t to ri-k it. AH the seeds came up except the beet, and on the 24th ol June, when i left home, ihey all promised well, but on my return on the 20ih of September, the g.ardener stated that the rye and wheat did not come to mriturity. 1 only planted two grain«of the calico corn, it too. was entirely destroyed by the weavel. 1 have saved some of the twin corn, the proli.fic bunch bean, a few of the flax seed, and a fevy of jihe pole bean, which I now present to the Society A. McDonald. Mr. G. W. Pournell became a member ot the Society, and expressed a desire that the interest of the mechanic would hereafter receive some consideration. Being a blacksui ith. he called attention to some .specimen plows of his own manufacture, which he had brought for the in- spection of the meeiir.g. Tiiey were much ad- mired by the planters present, being considered fully as good as those brought from a distance, if not something better. Mr. Cargilealso directed the attention of the meeting to some brogans ol his own manufac- ture, which were stout, .strong and well made. The Society then proceeded to the election of its officers for the current year, which result- ed as follows : Alex, McDonald, President. J. M. Raiford, fst Vice President. Wm. DeWitt, 2d do. T. Flournoy, Treasurer. A McGehee, Recording Secretary. B. Gardner, Corresponding do. E.x'ecutive Committee. Wm. S. Paullin. J. G. Shorter. J. Buford. Wm. Abney. T. Cargile. THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 55 CjI. McDonald then took the Chair, and re- turned his tiianks to the Society lor the honor conferred in electing him President, and earnest- ly solicited all to lend their energies to promote the objects for which the Society was organized. Unless this was done- unless every man went to Work as if he felt there was something to be done, and something for him to do, he thought it better that we quit the house and never enter it again in the capacity of an agricultural soci- ety. He alluded to the praiseworthy examples of the Farmers’ Club of Hancock County, Ga., and other associations of a similar character, and then e.xhorted the members to a similar course on iheir part. He concluded- by sug- gesting that another meeting of the Society be held on the third Saturday in March, at which time it would be advisable to adopt the neces- sary measures lor holding an Agricultural Fair in this place some time daring the 'fall, at the same time leading the way with a contribution for that purpose — remarking, that if we expect- ed to do any thing, we must have money, with- out it, we could do nothing. This example was immediately followed by other gentlemen pre- sent. On motion, Messrs. McDonald, Bufcrd and J. G. Shorter were appointed to revise the Con- stitution. On motion, the Society adjourned until Sa- turday the 15th of March, to meet in the Hall of the Market house. A. McDonald, Pres’t. B. Gardner, Sec’ty. pro rem. Eufaula, Ala ^ Feb. 22, 1845. From ths Boston Cultivator. Agricultural Cliemistry. Messrs. Editors : - Not long since, 1 heard a person who possessed some knowledge of agricultural chemistry, telling some farmers and others, that a laigepaitof the solid substance ol trees, and other vegetable productions, was dorived from the air, or rather, that part of the atmosphere called carbonic acid, and that this acid, or gas, was precisely like that which is- sues Iron) a barrel of fermenting beer or cider. After the man left them, they began to express their doubts about the truth of his theory. Says one, ’lis all nonsense, the visionary dreamings of a book farmer. Yes, says another, if his doctrine is true, what’s the use of manure, muck, and composts that he talks so much about. A third one observes, when he can make me be- lieve that the moon is made of green cheese, 1 shall believe his story about trees being made out of the slea ri that flies imt ol the bung-hole of a barrel, when the cider is working Now, Messrs. Editors, I cannot' think any of your readers are so ignorant, but still some of them may not have taken pains to in vestigate the subject as ti.ey ought, either Irom a belief that it is not riecessarv for a “ comm' -n farmer,” or that chemistry is too intricate a study for the tiller ot the soil to trouble his head about. T') while a way an evening, and, perhaps, to throw a little light upon the subject, I forward you the following, with the hope it may in some measure stimulate farmers to a more familiar study of agricultural chemistry. Of its impor- tance there can no .onger be any doubt; it is a matter about which there “are no two ways.” The atmosphere we breathe and in which plants grow and live, is compounded principal- ly of a mixture ol oxygen and nitrogen gases, in the proportion very nearly of 31 of the form- er to 79 of the latter. It also contains as a con- stituent necessary to the very existence of ve- getable life, a small per centage ot carbonic acid, un an average of about 1.2599 part. At first view it wou Id seem impossible that this apparently small amount ol carbonic acid could supply about one-half the solid substance to all plants that annually grow upon the whole face ofthe globe — but when we recollect that the at- mosphere not only entirely surrounds the earth, but extends in every direction about 45 miles — “and if the whole acid were collected in a stra- tum or bed occupying the lower part of the at- mosphere, such a stratum would have a thick- 1 ness of about thirteen feet;” and this would be spread over the entire waters ot the oceans, seas, lakes and rivers, the deserts ol sand, the frozen regions ofthe poles, and in fact over every pait and place of the globe th.il does not yield a ve- getable growth, and by the wisdom ol the great- est Contriver, this gas is, in innumerable ways, returned to the air as fast as abstracted ; heie then our wonder ceases. Now, from 40 to 50 pei cent, by right, ol all trees, plants and vege- tables, and in fact all parts ot plants which are cultivated for the food of animals, or of man, consists of carbon, and unquestionably most of this is derived from the air— although there can be nodoublthata small portion is taken in by the roots, mixed with water, and some ot the inor- ganic substances, that are in solution — but this was also derived from ths air. The leaves of plants are their lungs, and they have the powers of taking in or absorlnng from the air the carbonic acid, and in daylight this gas is decomposed, but much more rapid and energetic in clear sunlight. This gas is com- posed ol two proportions of oxygen and one of carbon, and when decomposed in the leal, the oxygen is set free and escapes into the air — the carbon is retained, and in obedience to those mysterious laws ot chemical combinations, is made to form a moiety ofthe endless variety of wood, fruit, seeds, &c. &ec., that gro w upon the earth. In proof ol ihis, I will offer the following il- lustration. We know, if we lake a given quan- tity (by weight) ot well seasoned wood and dis- til it in a close vessel, or burn it in heaps co- vered over so as to exclude the free access of air, wood-charcoal is left behind. When this process is well performed, the charcoal will weigh from 40 to 50 per cent as much as the wood did. The charcoal consists of carbon,, with a slight admixture only of earthy and sa- line matter, which remains behind when the coal or carbon is burned in the open air. When this charcoal (or carbon) is burned in the open air, it combines with the oxygen (which is se- parated from the nitrogen) ot the air to keep up combustion, and the whole of the coal enters in- to combination with the oxygen and forms car- bonic acid — or, in other words, carbonic acid consists of oxygen with a quantity of charcoal dissolved in it, and this is precisely the gas that escapes from a barrel of fermenting beer or ci- der, and in this condition it is fitted to be again taken in by the leaves of plants and reconverted into wood, truit, seeds, &c. &c., and this pro- cess has been going on without intermission from the first morn of time down to the present dav Perhaps it may seem somewhat mysterious. to many or all, how this elastic invi.sible gas can be converted into wood or other solid sub- stances, but it is no more wonderful than many other of its combinations. Every 100 lbs. of pure marble or limestone, as taken from the quarry, contains in round number.® 44 lbs. of this very gas; by subjecting the marble to a strong red heat, this gas is driven oft, and leaves but 56 lbs. ot lime. In this town there is a pearl-ash factory. In every 100 lbs. of pearl- ash the manufacturer sends to Boston, there is 32 lbs. of this gas combined with 68 lbs. of cau- stic pearl-ash, or to place it in another point of view, in sending 70 lbs. ot pearl-ash, 22 lbs. of it is carbonic acid. The pearl-ash is taken to the distillery, and a current of carbonic acid is made to pass through it, vthen another portion ot the acid is made to combine, and the 70 lbs. of pearl-ash come out 92 lbs. of saliE' atus, — that is, 22 lbs. more ot this gas is fixed in the pearl-ash. At the distilleries this gas is disen- gaged from the molasses and water while fer- menting, preparatory to its being distilled into spirit. Now can any one tell how this 44 lbs. of gas got combined with 66 lbs. of lime, so as to form 100 lbs. of marble 7 or how 44 lbs. ol carbonic acid entered into combination with 48 lbs. of caustic potash to make 92 of salaeratusi If a pound of charcoal is burned in a close vessel of oxygen gas sufficient to keep up combustion til! the whole of the coal is consumed, there is neither gain nor loss in the weight, the pound of charcoal is in the oxygen, and the I gas weighs a pound more ihan it did before combustion commenced, and what is still more strange, the volume or bulk ofthe gas is notin- creased by the addition ofthe pound of charcoal or carbon. The quality or nature of the gas is materially changed— being converted into car- bonic acid. Perhaps no one can tell, or perfect- ly understand the “modus operandi” of the above, but ofthe truth ol the statements we are as confident as we are that two and two make four. It is well known that lichens and mosses will grow and thrive upon the s lid rocks. Aa- ron’s rod and some other plants will flourish and gain in weight suspended in the air. The roots of a hyacinth, when the bulb is placed over a glass vase of water, will descend into it, the leaves and flowery stem will shoot upwards, and fragrant flowers are produced; during this time the w'ater is not changed nor any manure added, and perhaps the whole plant when in bloom will weigh twice as much as it did when placed in the vase. Now from what source do these plants draw their growth but from the air 7 But some may say this is on too small a scale to satisfy them ; then we will lake it upon a larger one. We know, if we take crop after crop from a given piece ot land, without return- ing any thing in the form of manure, it is yearly impoverished till at last it will scarcely produce any thing. The reason ol this is, we c'arry from the land all that is derived from the air, and all that is drawn from the soil, the inorganic parts of plants, which are just as necessary as the car- bon ; the soil thus becomes destitute of it — part of the funds necessary to carry on the co-part- nership— but the air is always solvent, ready to meet its engagements at sight, and contribute its full quota in proportion with the other part of the joint concern, and no farther. But if this impoverished soil is sown with the seeds of some kinds of trees, and they vegetate and grow, the longer they stand and the larger they grow, the richer and more fertile the soil becomes. If this growth of trees had derived its whole food from the soil, it would have been poorer than when it was planted; but as that is not the fact, we can come to no other conclusion than that the food for the carbon of the trees was drawn from the carbonic acid of the air, and the other organic substances from the air, water and the soil. The inorganic matters that enter into the composition of the plants, silex, lime, potash, so- da, gypsum, &c., drawn wholly from the soil, are gradually supplied by the mineral constituents of the soil, which generally yield them as fast as required for the growth of forest trees, with- out the aid or application of them by the hand of man. But not so with our cultivated crops, they are annually carried trom the land, and to keep up the fertility of the soil, the inorganic matter must be returned in a more soluble form than they exist in the mineral constituents of crops which do not decompose fast enough to supply annual crops of corn and grain lor a very long series of years. — Please excuse the length, and repetitions in this ; my object is to be understood by that class who are not familiar with “agricultural chemistry.” Yours, truly, Levi Bartlett. Warner, N. H., Dec. 24, 1844, Gulf Stream.— It may not be generally con- ceded that Dr. Franklin first made known to the world the existence ot the Gulf stream. It was made known to him by a Nantucket whaler, while in London, in 1’770. The stream had been previously ignorantly crossed, by Europe- an sailors, for nearly three hundred years before this. Franklin received from thesaihir, whose name we do not recollect, a map ol this current, and in 1775 discovered the higher temperature of its waters. The publication caused the trade ofthe Northern ports to increase rapidly in con- sequence of the advantages in the winter to. be derived from it in the management of vessels THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 56 ®l)e 0outl)etn <3lultiDatar, AUGUSTA, GA. T U ESPAY, AyKSI. 1, 1845. A PREflIlUM. The Publishers of the “SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR,” propose to give to every mail who shall procure TEN subscribers, aud enclose a ten dollar bill, the two back \ olumes of the work, handsomely bound. 13* Subscribers to the present volume of the Cultivator, can be supplied with the back numbers. We can also furnish the two back VOLUMES complete, at the subscription price. 53* The package of seeds sent to the editor of the Cultivator, has been received, and distributed. Premiums Awarded. In our Prospectus of the third volume of the “SouTHE.RN Cultivator,” we offered six Pre- miums, to those who should interest themselves in obtaining subscribers — to be awarded on the 1st of March — and we have now the pleasure of announcing the result. To the Hon. Charles Doughertv, of Athensi Q-a., was awarded the first premium — “A Silver Goblet, with appropriate Agricultural designs and inscription, worth $25,” for obtaining over ONE hundred subscribers. To Col. Alexander McDonald, of Eufaula, Barbour Co., Ala., the third — “ A similar Goblet, worth $15,” for obtaining over sixty- five subscribers. To Green B. Haygood, Esq., of Watkins- ville, Ga., the fourth — “Loudon’s Encyclopaedia of Agriculture, worth $10,” for obtaining over FIFTY subscribers. To Charles Hutchings, Esq., of Clinton, Ga., the fifth — “Johnson’s Encyclopaedia and Dictionary of Rural Affairs, v/orih $5,” for ob- taining over forty subscribers. It will thus be seen that no one has obtained either the second or sixth premium, both of which we should have been much pleased to have awarded to some of our Agricultural friends in testimony of their zeal in the cause. Id announcing the result we cannot permit the occasion to pass, without tendering to each of the above named gentlemen our most cordial thanks for the interest taken by them in our en- terprise, and to express our gratitude for their efforts in stimulating others to increased exer- tion, in behalf of the work. Nor would weomit to tender our sincere acknowledgements to all others, although less successful, who have ex- erted any influence to obtain subscribers to the work. The premiums will be ready for delivery at an early day, of which we will advise the respec- tive recipients, and receive their respective or- ders in relerence to them. Postage. The thoughtlessness of some of our friends frequently subjects the publishers to the pay- ment of postage, which is as unj ust as it is bur- thensome. For instance, some one wishes the direction of his paper changed from one Post Office to another, and forthwith writes us a let- ter, which he forwards willwut paying the post- age, and we are accordingly subjected to this tax on business purely his. Again: some friend wants to become a subscriber, and encloses the money in a letter, postage not paid, and we are consequently taxed double postage. It is true that the postage on a letter is of very little consequence so far as the amount is con- cerned, but whenourfriends reflect that the price of subscription to our paper is only One Dollar, a moment’s reflection will satisfy them that we cannot afford to pay the postage on letters per- tainingexclusively to the business of the writers. Besides, it is an easy matter to avoid thus tax- ing us, by simply requesting the Post Master to enclose the money, or request the change in the direction of a paper, all of which he is au' thorized to do. Agricultural Education. Much as book-farming has been ridiculed and despised in times past, and much as it is held in contempt in parts of the South even now, still the day is fast approaching when those who have thus acted will rue their folly. Even though we may incur the risk of being laughed at, yet we will take the liberty of saying that, day by day, the value of mere bone and muscle, as a mechanical agent, is becoming less and less, and ere long mere bones and muscles will become worthless as to any profitable use that can be made of them, unless their operations shall be guided by the light of this very book- learning so much despised. One reason why the South is so far behind the other sections of the Union is, because we have not long ago un- derstood and appreciated this important truth about the decreasing value of mere bone and muscle. In New York, for example, all this was comprehended long ago, and as a conse- quence, their Agricultural Institute is a regular college for teaching a system of Agriculture, suited to that soil and climate. There, the student learns all the lactsin Chemistry, Geolo- gy, and Botany, so far as they are immediately useful in Agriculture. He is taught how to prepare and drain soils; howto collect, store away, and preserve provender, grain, truit, &c.; how to feed, and take care of, and improve stock; how to take care of orchards, vineyards, gardens, &c. ; howto prepare and apply ma- nures to the best advantage ; and, indeed every thing that is necessary to make a man accom- plished in both the practice and the science of Agriculture. Even in the adjoining State of Tennessee, they are ahead of us in this matter of Agricul- tural Education. On the first of January last, an Agricultural College was opened in that Slate, with between forty and fiftv students; and our latest information about it is, that the uutr» ber will very soon be as large as can be accom- modated. We have now before us a catalogue of the students, including young men from the States ot Tennessee, Alabama, Mississippi, Missouri and Kentucky ; notone from Georgia. In this connection we copy from the Globe newspaper, an article showing what the Na- tional Agricultural Society is doing, and pro- poses to do, lor Agricultural Education. Let the reader con it over carefully, and very seri- ously, and then ask himself if it he not his duty to bestir himself and do something fur Agricul- tural Education in the South— in Georgia espe- cially— so that the light of science may be brought to the aid and direction ot the bone and muscle of this section of the country, ere the advances made elsewhere shall make his efforts vain and profitless. How is this to be done? you ask. Very ea- sily indeed. The tillers of the ground are a part of the State so numerous and important that, without them, the State could not exist. They have only, therefore, to have a proper no- tion of their own importance, and to assert their rights as men ought : to demand that in our sys- tem of education, so far as it is supported by the State, due regard shall be paid to the interests of their profession, and that the funds of the State shall not be applied almost exclusively, as here- tofore, to the preparation of young men for the study of the learned professions, so called — two of which at least, if not already, will soon be, at the present rale of increase, filled up to star- vation point. The planters pay by far the lar- ger part of the public taxes ; and they ought to see that these taxes are expended in like propor- tion for their benefit. In a v/ord, they should demand that the system of education in the Slate University shall include a Professorship of Ag- ricultural Chemistry and Geology — and de- manding this as their right, they should see that their agents in the Legislature provide the means of sustaining such professorship. AGRICULTURAL EDUCATION. The National Agricultural Society has lately adopted a plan that promises valuable results in promoting iinpr)vement among the farming community in all quarters of the Union. That plan is briefly set fnnh in the annexed proceed- ings, and has the merit of involving little ex- pense, while largely stimulating attenti-in to the great purposes for which the National Society was founded. The proceedings, as communi- cated to a late Agricultural Convention in the State of New York, and published in the Alba- ny Argus, were as follows: Globe. “National Agricultural Society. — At a meeting of the members of the National Agri- cultural Society, at the City of Washineton, on the 10th of January, 1845, Mr. Ellsworth, Com- missioner of the Patent Office, in the chair, and Mr. Callan, Secretary, — inquiry turned upon the means whereby the efforts of the friends of agricultural improvement may be made more united and efficient throughout the United Slates. The matter which most particularly arrested attention was the repor" of the opera- tions for ‘extending agricultural knowledge, through the instrumentality of the common- school organization of the State of New York.’ The report on this subject is in pamphlet form, and emanated from a committee of which the Hon. John Greig, late member of Congress, is THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 57 chairman, and of which James S. Wadswurtii, of Western New York, late president ot the State Agricultural Society, and the Hon. Dan- iel S. Dickinson, n-ow senator from that State, are among the members. The report includes letters Irom various persons in different States, as well as from many parts of that State, ap- proving warmly of the plan pursued by the com- mittee for promoting the introduction ol agri- cultural books in the schools and libraries ol that State. The value of this movement may be estimated from the fact that there are about twelve thousand school and library districts, with superintendents of schools in every town and county of that great State. “Allusion v/as made to the as well efficiency oi this plan of action; inasmuch as it accomplishes its object by bringing the whole common school organization to aid the cause of agriculture and horticulture; at the same time that the general interest of the school must be largely benefited by the iticreased practical val- ue imparted to education through this connec- tion with what is appropriately termed - the sta- ple business of society — the culture ot the earth.’ “After mature consideration, it was deter- mined that the National Agricultural Society approve and adopt the plan set forth by the New York State Agricultural Society, as a plan that is applicable wherever schools or colleges exist, and which can be prosecuted cheaply and effi- ‘ciently, especially in States where school organ- izations are judiciously arranged. “ With the view of promoting the extension ■of this plan throughout the United States, addi- tional correspending secretaries were appointed as follows: T. S. Pleasants, of Virginia ; Hen- ry O’Reily, of New York; Thomas Affleck, ot Mississippi; Oliver Comstock, of Michigan; A. G. Summer, of Columbia, S. C.^ and Hen- ry Barnard, of Cennecticul. “ It is recommended to the nev/ly appointed secretaries to correspond freely with each other and particularly with the officers of the society at Washington, as well as with the friends of agricultural education generally in all sections ofthe Union, so as to produce the greatest efli- ciency by co-operation in the cause, “A resolution was adopted directing these proceedings to be published in the agricultural and other journals; and another resolution re- quired that copies thereof be forwarded to the several State Agricultural Societies in the Union. J. S. Skinner, Con. Sec. “ Post Office D-eparlment, Jan. 10, 1845.” Bermuda Grass. The Macon Telegraph, in a notice of the Cultivator, (for which it has our thanks,) speaks thus on the subject of Bermuda Grass ; “A communication on the subject of Bermu- da Grass, we transfer to our columns from those •of the Cultivator; and v'hile we appreciate the value of that grass for grazing, we would ask the editor ot the Cultivator at a leisure time to inform us as to the most practicable plan of get- ting clear of Bermuda Grass when the land is wanted for other purposes. Our farmers gene- rally deprecate its taking root on a corner of their plantations, as they would a great calami- ty. Its spreatt is slow when undisturbed by the plough, hut sure and steady ; and we have never yet learned how it is to be entirely eradicated from a field on which it has hold. “It this paramount objection can be remedied and it can be destroyer, at pleasure, we believe no grass, or scarce! v any grain, would be more useful to the South.” No one, neither Mr. Spalding nor Mr. Af- fleck, can have a higher opinion than we have ot the verv great value of this grass both for hay and pasture ; and we are, at the same time, ful- ly aware of the extreme dislike with which it is regarded by our planters. It would seem to be contrary to nature that what is of so much value should, at the same time, be so great a pest. — There must, therefore, be a mode by which it can be subdued. We beg leave to call the at- tention of Mr. Spalding and Mr. Affleck to ihi.s point, with the hope that they will furnish us with the result of their experience. If they will do this, and shall propose a plan by which Ber- muda Grass may be effectually rootpd out, whenever it is desired to use the land it occupies for other purposes, they will confer a lavor on the planters -of the South that will not soon be forgotten In Elliott’s Botany we find a notice of the Bermuda Grass, which goes to confirm all our impressu ns as to its great value. He says: — “ We have two varieties of this plant, one coar- ser, (perhaps a species,) growing in damp soils, and native; the other, said to be imported, a tender, delicate grass, growing over and brad- •ing the most arid and loose lands in our coun- try, and apparently preferred by stock of all de- ■KTiptions to every oilier grass. The cultivation of this grass on the poor and extensive sand hills of our middle country, would probably convert them into sheep-walks of great value.; but it grows in every soil, and no grass on close, rich land, is more formidable to the cultivator; it must, therefore, he introduced loilh caution.'" Broom Corn and Tobacco. Would not you think it rather a tough story, if any one were to sit down and tell you about land being worth three hundred dollars an acre because It produces broom corn well? Well, you may think so if -you like — but Gov. Hill, of New Hampshire, says it is true. Read the extract below, from his agricultural paper, the “ Monthly Visitor.” You will find, farther, that Gov. Hill speaks of land in Massachusetts ptoducing, by the cul- ture of tobacco, a clear profit of one hundred dollars per acre. Herein the South there is land in abundance that will produce better tobacco, and more of it, than can fee made, on the same number of acres, any where In New England. Yet, because a blight has come over the prospects of the cotton trade, men are found among us who are almost ready to yield to despair. This will never do. Our maxim is— never despair. Cheer up, we say; read agricultural papers. Ifyou don’t like t’ae “ Southern Cultivator,” there are plenty of others. You can be suited among them all, surely. It is not of very much consequence to us v/hich one you take, so you read some one. Get the intelligence ol the Yankees ; then imi- tate their enterprise and industry ; and you will soon find that there are many other things, be. sides cotton, by the culture, of which 5'’oa may not only live, but get rich. From Gov. Hill’s Monthly Visitor. “ While the intervale lands at Northampton, Massachusetis, on Connecticut river, devoted to the Indian corn and other grains, with the grass- es for hay, bear only an average price of some- what less than one hundred doliais the acre, the same kind of lands in Hadley, near by, which for years have h -en empl-oved in raising broom coin, sell for three hundred dollars the acre Lower down upon the river, in Springfield, Massachusett.s, in Suffield and Enfield tn Con- necticut, tobacco is becoming an extensive arti- cle for cultivation, it is said that land in Springfield the last year produced a clear profit of one hnndred dollars the acre in the produc- tion of tobacco. Spanish and Havana cigars are manulactured in those parts of Massachu- setts and ConneciicuT, whe.e the business has been pursued to great advantage. “A new impulse has been given tithe oldest village in New Uswich, formerly the residence of the Farrars, the Barretts, Appletons and Pres- tons, by the manufacuire of cigars. Since the u.se ofalccrhol has been banished from most of OUT interior towns, smoking has become a sub- stitute, tbs excess of which, it maybe feared, will be hardly less deleterious in the course of man’s whole lift* than the use of strong drink. The man who smokes ten cigars in twei ly-four hours (and some smoke double that number) paying as the price of the best thtee vents each, w-ill expend as much as the cost ol keeping drunk onrum. Webelieve exces.sive smoking, chewing and even snuffing to be about as bad as hard drinking : it may not make the man im- mediately drunk, but continued month after month it must undermine the health — it like- wise creates the appetite lor strong drink. Filly thousand cigars weekly, or thereabouts, are made at one establishment in New Ipswich. — The tobacco leaf used in this manufacture, for “ long nines” and the cheaper kinds, i‘ raised in Virginia, Maryland or Kentucky: the belter kinds are made from the Cuba tobacco, the price of which is much higher than the leaf tobacco raised in the United States. If the appetite for tobacco should continue to increase as it has for the last few years, tho.'^e w'ho are engaged in its manufacture will accumulate fortunes. Mil- lions ofdollars are annually puffed awav in the fumes of this narcotic weed. The manufacture of lobacco alter it has been cured by the grower, has made fortunes in some cf our cities : Jacob Lorillard, w'ho died some years ago in the city of New York, acquired probably more than a million of dollars in the manufacture and sale of snuff and smoking and chewing tobacco. “In vending the cigars, paste and liquid shoe and leather blacking, writing ink and locofbco matches made at ihe liitle village ol New Ips- wich, Hill.sborongh county, N. H., some forty orfiliy horses and half as many pedlar’s vehi- cles are employed, furnishing the articles in all parts of New England.” Kow to get Sound Sleep and Pleasant Dreams. The Albany Cultivator forMarch says : — “The Hon. J. J. McKay, member of Congress from North Carolina, has renewed his subscription for j one hundred copies of the Cultivator for gratui- i tous distribution among his constituents. James I Sloan, of the same State, is also a subsciiber for one hundred copies.” When these men lay their heads on theii pi'- lovvs, how different must their Uelings be from those of the rabid party polidcian who will spend thrice that sum in circulating among the people documents filled with the gall and aenom of party spirit, the only tendency rf which is to prison every source of social enjoyment, stir up feelings of lancorous hate and rabid ferocity, and set man against his fellow man in bitter and unrelenting patty conflict— and all for what? That he may be regarded as a great man ) y those whom he thus brutalises, and may, by their means get to Washington City as a member of Congress, there to wallow in coiruption, Herein we make no personal allusion ; but we do say wi;h Colman: “ Blessed will be the day, if come it ever should, when every man will learn that his own true prosperity is essentially concerned in the pros- perity of his neighbor, and that no gralification j on earth, to a good mind, is more delicious than 58 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. that which is refle ted from the happiness of an- other to which he has been, himself, instrumen- tal.” The Planter. If the picture which we hereunto annex had been drawn by any one else than one of our own Southern people, it might be set down as pure scandal; the offspring of malice prepense, as the lawyers say. Even il it were, it might be as well to republish it, that we might know something of what our enemies say of us. As it does not. however, come from that quarter, it will do no harm to examine it attentively, and see whether there is any resemblance between il and ourselves: and if there should chance to be any such resemblance, to seiabou correcting ourselves accordingly. From the Wetumpka Argus. “ A True Picture. — The following picture of a Southern planter, as we too olten find him, is from a Louisiana paper. There is a deuced sight more truth than poetrj in it. By and by, our planters will probably learn a little gump- tion, and then we shall be happy to see the pic- ture reversed, but until then candor compels us to acknowledge its correctness; “‘Now for th“ picture of the vlanler. He wouldn't seil a chicken, nor a dozen of eggs, nor a bushel of peaches, nor a call, for any con- sideration. He is that! He vniscs cotton — Ae does ! He rides in a six hundred dollar carriage, for which he is in debt. His daugh- ters thrum a piano that never will be paid lor. He buys corn which he could raise at ten cents a bushel, and pays sixty cents fur it, after ^ per cent, advance to commission merchant. He could raise his own tobacco, yet he pays $3 a pound for Richmond scented. He could raise his own hogs — yet he patronises Chicinnali. The consequences are disastrous. Being the possessor of o?ie staple, he fluctuates with the inarket of that article. He takes the ‘ Price Current’ — he pays postage — he gobbles down the English news like a cormorant. It he selhs to-day,'he'll lose— therefore he’ll wait for better advices. He is ‘ mixed up’ in cotton, and is a gambler therein. Mean time he wants money — drafts on his factor! He wants cotton goods and clothes for his plantation, that he could make at home. He orders them, and feels ‘ large.’ The manufacturer, the insurer, the shipper, the freighter, the drayman, the warehouse man, the seller, and finally the commission merchant, all have a finger in the pie of profits, and the proud foolish planter pays them all. The year closes, and he is ‘up to his eye-brows’ in debt! This is the result of his not ‘ calculating’ nor even guessing the difference between formers and planters. One supports a family— Vne o' her sup- ports until pride gets a fall!”’ That will do for a Lcui.^iana sketch. Now for one from South Carolina. If our people, after such raspings, do not mend their ways, they must be given up as a stiff-necked generation, lost beyond all hope of amendment. Mr. Gregg, of Charleston, says: “My recent visit to the Northern States has fully satisfied me that the true secret of our diffi- culties 1 es in the want of energy on the part of our cauitalists, a^d ignorance and laziness on the part of those who ought to labor. We need never look for thrift while we permit our immense tim- ber forests, granite quarries and mines, to lie idle, and supply ourselves with hewn granite, pine boards, laths, and shingles, &c., furnished by the lazy dogs at the North — ah, worse than this, we see our back-country farmers, many cf whom are too lazy to mend a broken gate, or repair the fences, to protect their crops from the neighbor- ing stock, actually supplied with their a.\e, hoe, and bro-am handles, pitchforks, rakes, &c-, by the indolent mountaineers of New Hampshire and Massachusetts, The time was when every old woman in the country had her gourd, from which the country gardens were supplied with seeds. We now find it more convenient to per- mit this duty to devolve on our careful fiiends, the Yaakees. Even our boat-oars and hand- spikes for rolling logs, are furnished, ready made, to our hand, and what jimcrackcan possibly be invented of which we are not the purchasers? These are the drains which are impoverishing the South — these are the true sources of all our dif- ficulties. Need I add, to further exemplify our excessive indolence, that the Charles! on market is supplied with fish and wild game by Northern men, who come out here as regularlv as the win- ter comes for this purpose, and, from our own waters and forests, often realize, in the course of one winter, a sufficiency to purchase a small farm in New Kngland.” Dogs. We made the remark in the January number ol the Cultivator, that the first movement of those who were turning their attention to wool growing, should be to exterminate the race ot dogs with v/hich the whole country is infested. We say so again; and we add now, that until it is done it is perfectly vain to attempt to raise sheep. Some one says:— -“We can’t do without dogs.” Very well: il you must have dogs, get dogs that will be worth some small part, at least, of what they consume. The shepherd’s dog is of this sort, if half what they say of him be true. Take for prool Mr. Sotham’s account of his dog Boxer, in the “Central New York Farmer.” Here it isr — From the Central New York Farmer. Messrs. Editors — According to promise, I send the description and character of my Shepherd’s dog. He is of humble pedigree ; h'is dam was of a poaching disposition, caught pheasants on their nests in the summer, and was shot by the game-keeper, after producing Boxer under a manger. His sire was ot a similar kind, caught hares in their forms when out on duty, and although owned by ihe shepherd ot a noble- man, even the influence ot aristocracy could not save him; he was hung for his transgres- sions, although he procured his master many a luxurious meal, and he gave Boxer a good edu- cation. Boxer’s phiz is rather a remarkable one; though not beautiful, there is an animated and intellectual look in his eye, and appearance of quick imagination before action, that makes him interesdng; he is of medium size, a hmg, curly coat, --and without a tail, a good criterion of the true kind. This dog is one of the most faithful and af- fectionate of the brute creation, and I should say, knows as much as many of the human race. His temper is exceedingly docile, except when imposed upon, then he will defend him- self with true courage; going through the city, twenty dogs may run, bark and.grov 1, but Box- er will turn, give a counter snail, ana bid defi- ance to all. He will go rpund any lot on the farm, and letch ev’ery sheep to you, and keep them togeth- er until you examine the whole flock, or take any number from it. He is generally very obe- dient, and a more industrious animal never stood on legs; he is more- useful in driving a flock of sheep than three men. If his assis- tance is required among the cattle, he will take them to any point required, and he knows a strange animal equally well with myself Box- er is no Iricnd to hogs; if he sees one on the pr-^ndses, out of the stye, he is off without or- deis. If the peacock, fowls, turkeys or ducks enter the garden. Boxer discovers them, or it a w'histle is given, they take to their wings or legs immediately. Should the geese enter any ol the lots, a whistle will soon bring them into the road. Once show Boxer the proper place for an animal, and he will alwmys bear it in re- membrance. Make him understand what you want him to do, and he w’ill perform his woik with great sagacity. It is sometimes my practice to let my sheep in the road a few hours in the day, when the feed is good, and take them at night to very short pasture, to leave the manure they collect; one evening. Boxer going to fetch them, brought all but one; as soon as they had entered the gate, he barked at the shepherd, and walked towards the lost sheep, the pastor followed him to a fence where a lamb was fastened; had he remained, he must have died before morning. Two flocks of sheep came to the washbrook at the same time, into one yard, Cotswold and Merino. — Boxer kept the division equally well as aboard fence, not a sheep escaped from either, the whole lime of washing. The old dog did this w ith much judgment, and in a very quiet way, and the good acts he had.^one elsewhere, elicit- ed many compliments from his friends and “ ac- quainta.ncesf' Give Boxer a lair chance at a rat, and he is certain death. A skunk'’ must die, notwithstanding its cdor; a w'oodchuck must run, if he has far to get home ; and a dog must fight — and bravely too — if Boxer catches him among the flock. He comes to his meals as regularly as the cloth is laid, and if he is not noticed, he will put his paw' on each at table, until he is fed. — He fares as well as his master, who is perfectly aware of his partiality and sterling worth, and well compensated lor every meal. He is a more interesting companion than many who call themselves men. Boxer sleeps before the fire in the evening, and has nothing to disturb his tranquil repose, but the caresses of his friends — at night he guards the premises — not a thing moves without his knowdedge — and a ''thief” must take care of his " breeches” — the midnight solitude finds the old dog watching. He is a dog of all work, a general favorite, and never flinches from his duly, but manifests ea- gerness to do it. It the old dog could speak, he could tell a good tale on sheep. If he could flourish a pen with his paw, he could distinguish the different breeds of cattle, cqnnWy well with many writers wffio profess to know' ; therefore I shall bestow' the praise and -commendation, and to say the least, he is a great dog. I have been offered one hundred dollais for him, but my "last shilling” must eo before we part ; there is a tie between him and me, that even the power of money cannot sever. Wm. H. Soth.vm. Hereford Hall, Nov. lOfA; 1844. Ellsworth’s Report. We are indebted to the Commissioner of Pa- tents lor a copy of his Report for the year 1844. It embraces the usual topics ; and is, from first to last, full ot very interesting information, par- ticularly so much of it as rel-ites lo Agriculture. We intend to avail ourselves, from time to time, for the benefit of our readers, ol the very impor- tant and valuable matter which Mr. E. has col_ lected with so much industry. We commence, in this number, wfith the following extracts from his introductory report. From Mr Ellsworth’s Report for 1644, The annual agricultural statistics, compris- ing the tabular estimate ol the crops for the past year, with accompanying remarks and appen- dixes, w'ill be found subjoined, (marked D.) If the length of the document is objectionable, I will only say that I have deemed it more accep- table to the public to give the facts established, than deductions from them ; more especially as no conclusive opinion can be justly formed on contradictory statements respecting some impor- tant subjects. The science ol agriculture has now’ become a study, and much greater improvement may be expected. Worn out lands that have been, as THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 59 it were, abandoned, are now being reclaimed under scientific treatment. Guesswork and he- reditary notions are yielding to analysis and the application ol chemical principles. The writ- ings oi learned agriculturists in Europe are translated into the English language, thus pour- ing a body ol new light upon the path ol the husbandman. Some extracts from the celebrated Von Thaers principles of agriculture will be found in one ol the appendixes to the agricultural re- port. They evince the deep research and pa- tient investigation of that distinguished philan- thropist. Little is accomplished in an}’’ science without perseverance. How many bright anticipations have been blasted by a single unpropitious ex- periment! V/ithout making allowance for or- dinary casualties orunlorseen occurrences, how many efforts to improve husbandry by selection of seeds has failed! All has been abandoned, because the first experiment has not been crown- ed with success; forgetting that seeds. Hire an- imals, must be acclimated, and require certain food not found in every soil. The truth of this general remark may be illustrated by a recent attempt to solve the difficulty in granulating the sirup of corn-stalks. Scientific gentlemen at first pronounced the sugar from corn-stalk to be grape sugar only ; and hence, crystalization could hardly be expected. Much disappointed in the result, I transmitted to Boston some of the sugar made by Mr. Webb, of Delaware, and requested another analysis. The second analy- sis was entirely successful, proving the sugar from corn-stalk to be equal to the best Musco- vado sugar. In reviewing this subject, it appears that the juice of cork stalk cut too early will not granu- late; and this was the cause of the first failure. There is every reason to believe that all diffi- culties in making good sugar from this vegeta- ble will be removed; while the reports of this year show the quantity of saccharine matter sufficient to class the crop among the best for profit. * * * * * To Dr. Jackson we are also indebted for an anal sis of several grains. The superiority of one kind of Indian corn over another is surpri- singly manifest: one is filled with oil, the other has no trace of it; hence the superiority of the former for fattening animals. Some grains contain a large quantity of phosphate, (such as beans, &c.,) and hence their consumption tends to increase the bones of animals. Dyspeptics will learn fiom this why some meal (that which contains oil) is so difficult of digestion. For further remarks on this subject, with illustra- ticns, see Appendix No. 6to the agricultural re- port. 4= * * Among the first inquiries of the political econ- omist, is the question, How can the productive- ness ofihe earth be increased !- Modern prac- tice answers it easily. Manure and tillage are the instruments employed ; either, alone, is com- para'ively useless. ‘-Grapes will not grow on thorns, nor fisis on thistles,’’ Nor wnll sour land yield sweet food; the nature ofihe soil must be changed, and this is efiectecLby draining Intimately connected with draining land, is that of subsoiling ; indeed, the last has lately been substiuited for the former, with good suc- cess. The cheapness of subsoil ploughsbrings them within the reach of every farmer. The letter from IMr. Verdine Ellsworth shows what can be done by deep ploughing. By supe- rior culture, his land yielded thi.s year over 1-21 bushels of shelled corn per acre — his timoibv meadows yielded 3i tons per acre. This state- ment is full of encouragement. (See appendix No. 5 to agricultural report.) Few individuals are aware of the extension of roots in pulverized soil. Von Thaer men- tions finding roots of sainfroin from 10 to 15 feet deep in the ground. There are now in the national gallery corn-roots taken from one side of a hill of corn laid bare by the freshet, and pre- sented by the Hon. J. S. Skinner to the national gallery. The corn was planted on the 20th of May, and roots gathered the 14th of July, 1S4-2. In sixty days some of the large roots extended more than 4 feet, covered with lateral branches. 1 have caused the roots to be measured; the aggregate length of roots in the hill is, by Mr. Skinner’s estimate, over 8,000 teet. The speci- men alluded to is open lor examination. This fact is here mentioned, to show the importance of deep ploughing, to enable the plant to find nourishment so much below the surface as may avoid the effect of drought, give support to the stalk, and not expose the roots to be cut by need- ed cultivation. Soil is made by exposure ol earth to the atmosphere; and. whoever wishes to make permanent improvements will not fail to plough deep, * >r ^ * The Hessian fly still continues to be a dread- ful foe to the agriculturist. Hoping to throw some light upon this subject, I have obtained a communication from one ol the most scientific gentlemen in this country, who has made the study of this insect the object of microscopic in- vestigation for years. The origin, progress and changes of this fly, cannot fail to interest; and it is confidently hoped that when its birth, its constitution, and its home are found, it can be attacked with more certainty of destruction. Mr. Herrick’s communication will be found in the appendix to the agricultural report, as above, marked No. 1. Notice of other insects that af- fect wheat is added. — (See Appendix No. 2 ) There is much to encourage the artist and the husbandman. The latter may feel momentarily depressed, by the low price of crops ; but he is cheered by the reflection that he is far better off than those in professions proverbially crowded. The cultivator of the soil is, in the fullest sense, the most independent : he raises enough to eat, and can clothe himself ; having a surplus to ex- change, it he cannot sell. How much better for the young man of this country to aspire to the enviable rank of a scientific ancLsnccessiul agriculturist, than to grasp at the shadowy hon- ors that are momentarily cast around the brow’s of political combatants. There is much to console the husbandman in the reduction ol-the cost of the necessaries of life which he has occasion to } urchase. Labor-saving machines are being introduced with still greater success. Mowing and reap- ing will, it is bt-iieved, soon be chiefly perform- ed, on smooth land, by horse power. Some have regretted that modern improvements make important changes of employment; but the march of the arfs and sciences is onward, and the greatest happiness of the greatest nmnber is the motto of the patriot. This is pro.moted.by facilities in production, whether in manufac- tures or agriculture; and if we are to compete with the world at large, we must, readily em- brace the cSer of genius and skill; we must yield to competitors equal fertility of soil, and win the race by superior industry and intelli- gence. Electricity. — 1 have frequently heard it re- marked, and believe Tt ik generally known (by I observing people at least,) that for the space of I ten or twelve years pasr, there has not been so ! many thunder showers as formerly, sav from ! ten to twenty years ago. I think that where 1 reside, (30 miles N. W. of Boston,) there have not been somu,ch lighfliing and thunder in any three years since 1835, as I frequently knew previous to ’35, in -24 hours. Do you think that the vast quantitv of iron on our Rail R.oads and in our manufacturing villages has any in- fluence in this respect! 1 think it has, \he Rail Road in particular. I have learned that in the northern part of this Stale, (N. H .) there is no difference from former years. I should like to have the opinion ol others on this subject. C. Edi'onal Remarks. — We should be pleased to have the view.s of our correspondents on t’ne above subject. If the large amount of iron ex- posed to the atmosphere conducts off the supera- bundance of electricity irnperceptiblv, v. hat ef- fect will it have on vegetation 7— Cult ORIGINAL COMMUNICATIONS. For the Sonihern Cullivalor. Examples for Planters. Mr. Editor: — On a recent tour on business down the Chauahcochee, I found the people every -where alive to the important question of, W hat shall be done by the South to relieve the embarrassments resting upon her great staple 1 Many plans have been suggested, and probably ail of some merit. bile passing among my planting friends, a few facts fell withfn the scope of my observation, which led to reflec- tions on this subject, which 1 think are practica- ble and proper to be adopted. At Eulaula, I was invited to the house of Col. McDonald, who is getting very justly some notoriety as a spirited planter, and the warm and zealous friend of all that tends to the im- provement or agriculture.^ He shewed me sam- ples of his cotton, which was brought to that market when ordinary cotton was selling at 4 cents. For this he was promptly offered 7 cts , which he as promptly refused. It was shipped to New York, where 9 cents was at once offer- ed, and again refused. This cotton, I .earn, was raised upon common grey land; and its superior qualify was attributed alone to the handling, which he represented as tedious, so much so, that the quantity of land planted, and the quantity of caton picked, was necessarily greatly less than that ordinarilv planted and picked to the hand. Elis profit', for neatness arid pains taking, as you will perceive, was just 75 per cent.: so that he could well af- ford to reduce the number of acres cultivated and the number of bales produced in the same ratio, say 75 per cent, on each, and still make as much money as his neighbor who pursued the old plan. If this system was adopted gene- rally, or more extensively, the relief to the country in a reduced crop is found at once without the sacrifice of a single dollar in its ac- complishment, and with a due share of all the advantages, which it would soon be in-trument- al in bringing to the country, as an inevitable j result, in the reduced production. I The next day J passed to the house of Judge Taylor, in the County of Randolph. The Judge is living on his farm, in the neighbor- hood of Cnthbert, and is full of the spirit which a personal and practical knowledge of planting is so well calculated to beget. He invited me to see his process of making syrup or molasses from a little patch ol sugar cane, winch he had cultivated last year. H^-ery body knows that molasses may be .made from the cane, and this is not therefore the fact which I propose to report, but the yield This is the roint of interest, and I doubt not will be ol' astonishment to nine-tenths of those who hear it. He had cultivated nut quite three-fourths of an acre in cane, (common ribbon,), on very common pine land, a little ma- nured. At the time of my examination, he was just filling the second hogshead ol 80 gallons each ; and said that he had cane enough to make 40 .gallons more— making 200 gallons of good syrup— and had .seed cane enough left to plant 2f acres. This would be at the rate of nearly or qu:te 300 gallons of syrup to the acre, apprJ- priatmg from the crop only seed enough to plant the same quantity of land again. This, at 20 cents per gallon, 'would be *00 per acre; and he assured me that it was not more difficult of cultivation than Indian corn, and the process t f boiling not half so tedious or complicated as the making a kehle of soap. The mill for grinding the cane, is a simple and cheap affair, which can be put up by any rough workman, and need not cost a planter more than ten dollars. Here is an outlet for a change ol labor and a good return in profits. Ours is indeed a country of resources abundant and vat led ; and if, in the midst of them, we shall continne to work out, by a blind policy, our own oppression and ruin, I can only conclude that we deserve to groan on under the burthens of our own creation. Very respecilullv, your obd’t. serv’t., If ynuton. Ga., Feb Jas. 2.1. Chx.msers. 60 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. For the Souihern Culuvaior. Mr. James Camak, Editor of the Southern Cultivator ; Dear Sir; — I hat e received the January, Feb rtiary and Jlar, h j\ os. of the Southern Cultiva- tor, and have read them with much interest, and, I trust, with profit. 1 have also the first two vol- umes of that valuable agricultural publication ; and I am much pleased that the farmers of the South and Southwest have it in their power to procure a work, devoted to the cause of Southern husbandry, so cheap as to be within the reach of the entire family of the cultivators of the soil, and one so well calculated to interest and bene- fit the larmer. I make this remark after having been long a subscriber to agricultural publica- lians, and being, at this time, a subscriber to three other agricultural w'orks beside the South- ern Cultivator: and as an evidence of my opin- ion of the value of the Cultivator to the farmer, the gardener and the mechatnc, I have, since the commencement of the present volume, procured and sent to the publishers upwards of seventy uollars for the Cultivator. The subscribers have been mostly farmers, but several have been me- chanics, and others that cultivated only a garden. I was sorry to observe, in the February number of the Uuiiivator, that the publishers had to pub- lish to the world, that they had not received more money, up to that time, ttian would pay for the setting up of the type. i\ow, this should be mortifying to every Southern farmer. At a time when a state of things has taken place through- out the entire fcouth and Southwest, heretolore unknown since the introduction of the great Southern staple, we, for the first time, see cotton pressed on the market so low as hardly to leave the farmer or cotton grower any money, after paying lor his bagging, rope, and the transporta- tion to maiket of that -troublesome crop ; at a time when the cultivators of the soil need all the light they can possibly get ; w'heii they require all the information within their reach to enab e them to shape their course so as to make their honorable and important business pleasant and profitable — to see so little interest taken in the circulation of the only agricultural work devoted to their interests in this region of country, is a matter that I must acknowledge I was not pre- pared to see. But I trust a better state of things has taken place, and that there is a coming up fiom every quarter subscribers to the Cultivator. If we, as farmers, would take the .-ame inter- est in the cause of agriculture as w'as taken last year in President-making, but a few years would pass away until the lace of the country would change. You would not be accosted at every turn ot the road with the cry of hard times. Prosperity and happiness would become universal. Our old fields, now thought to be worthless, w^ uld be so improved, by a proper system of manuring and rotation of crops, that we would haruly realize that it was the same place that, a few years be- fore. waa considered worthless. Tell me not that this is a too highly drawn picture. The same thing has taken place in other parts of the world that have not the advantages we possess. Mr. Editor, I am lar from believing that we should be indifferent as to the selection of our rulers. 1 only call on the cultivators of the soil to be as industrious now in the formation of Ag- ricultural Societies, and in holding Agricultural Fairs, and in the circulating of Agricultural pa- pers, as they were in the cause of politics. The great misfortune is, we are opposed, as farmers, to every thing like innovation on an established system, if s. stem it can be called. As soon as an improvement is suggested, we cry out hum- bug. Now, Mr. Editor, for my part, I would ra- ther be humbugged a littie in trying to be, or to do something, than to soend a life in attempting so little as never to attain to a decent humbug. The farmers throuchuul this region, many of thvm, are not only taking the Cultivator, but are forming Agricultural Societies. I will, at a future time, give you some account of my farming opeiations, as I keep a farming memorandum, in which is entered every thing done on the farm from year to year. This is a work that I have kept for twenty years past. Your friend, Alexander McDonald. Eufaula, Barbour to., Ala , March 12, 1845. E 'erv me'-hanic that has a spot of land, though it be small, should raise some limit, both lor pleasure and profit. For the Southern Cultivator. Berkshire Hogs. Mr. Ecn’i.m I have just received your “SouTHKRN Cultivator,” volume third and third number, and have been a little amused at a communication which it contains trom “Clt^ti- hopper, of Houston county.” Together with a good many other things, he says: “I want to know the breed of hogs that will give the most good meat fur the food consumed ;• how to feed , and what to feed with, to produce flesh and make fat. But spare, oh, spare the Berkshires ; they have brought me to buy pork.” Sir, the above lamentation reminds me very much of a gentleman of my acquaintance w’ho cal.ed to see me sometime during the last year. In the course of conversation, the breed of hogs tvas brought up, and, like “Clodhopper,” he con- demned the Berkshires. 1 took him into my back yard, and showeu him a pig 1 had, which is three-lourihs Berkshire. He admitted it to be a fine pig of its age, bdt was learlul it would never be large enough. We continued our walk, came upon a Berkshire sow and boar. The boar I suppose would weigh net lour hun- dred and fifty, and the sow three hundred pounds. Well, sir, said 1, will they dol — 0 yes, they are fine— they are large enough. We still pursued our walk until we came up to a sow, half Berkshire, the balance improved stock, that I supposed would weigh net five hundred pounds at any time when fully fat! My friend was much delighted with her. The hogs were there, and showed for themselves. His theory was put to flight by viy demonstra- tion he eoula say no more, but, turned oil and said, “Ah, you feed your hogs.” Now, sir, if “ Clodhopper” thinks that he can dispense with the use of corn, or a good substitute for it, be- cause he changed his breed, he will find himself always a pork buyer. And here permit me to say, that there are ma- ny hogs in the country, that have been put on the people lor Berkshire, thal have but little, if any, ot the stock about them. Some years ago 1 received, as a present, a pair of pigs from a gentleman of my acquaintance, of Montgomery county, Alabama. My hogs were much im- proved by tiie cross, and consequently were con- sidered the best in the neighborhood. Mind, 1 do not say the largest, but best; 1 mean by this that they were considered of fairsiae, and would yield the most flesh to the size cf the bone and quantity of lood consumed. 1 have since cross- ed them with the Berkshire. My neighbors think my stock still belter ; but, recollect, I feed them. I have the full blood Berkshire, and pre- fer them to the cross upon common stock. I never anticipated so great an advantage as ma- ny others expected. I expected to get a hog of small bone, a good deal of flesh in proportion when fat; one that would be easily fattened, and that could be fat- tened also at any age; and, sir, /h^ve not been disappointed. Now, sir, if “Clodhopper” is disposed to feed, and wishes to change his stock by a cross, I will venture to advise him to call on Col. David Bryant, near Belvue in this coun- ty, and obtain from him a pair of Kennelwoi th pigs. They are \a?ge, plenty large-, will weigh, when fully grown, from five to seven hundred pounds, (but mind, he feeds them.) Thev are generally perfectly white, very fleshy, and rone too much bone, and can be fattened at any age. All things considered, I prefer them to any hogs I know cf. If I have any objection, it is thal they may be too large for our climate— small bogs being the easiest to save. But then you know thal ditficulty could be obviated by killing them while young. While upon this subject, I will say, that I have no doubt of “Clodhopper’s” getting well paid for his trouble and expense, by feediug his hogs on meal in.stead of corn when they are put up to fatten. This I have tried to my satisfac- tion, and I am fully persuaded that at least ‘S‘S per cent, may be made by adopting the plan ol putting up hogs on a floored pen and feeding on meal, instead of Jetting them run out in a lot and feeding on corn. Gentlemen of the North say: Cook your food and you can save 33 per cent, by that. Of this, however, I am not prC'^ pared to s::y, not having tried it to my satislae- tion, but my intention iar to test the matter this fall, by using pigs ot the same litter; yes, even Berkshires if you please, and shouliT Jive todo so, you' shall know the result. I have tried a cross ol the Durham cattle on common slock, and frnd a decided improvement in the milking qualities— the mixed stock yield- ing more than double the quantity of milk that the common stock aoes, with precisely the same treatment. This emboldens me to push my ex- periment even as far as the lull blood, but as this is yet to be done, I can say nothing of the re- sult. One of the Buckets'. Talbot county, March 13, 1845. For the Southern Cullivalo// Cotton Culture—Successful Method. Mr. Editor; — The subject of agriculture advocated by jour valuable paper, the South- ern Cultivator, is becoming every day more interesting. In all pans of our Slate we hear of experiments being made by our most enlerpri- zing larmers, the success of which, suggests to others the importance of makingsimilar efi'orls, and if possible, of improving those made al ready. By communicating to the public the success, or failure of our experiments, we not only open the way to insure success to others in their undertakings, but also set up a beacen, which will tend greatly to prevent many from running upon the rock of disappointment, and, not unlrequenily, discouragement. Whether the publication of my manner of planting, ma- nuring, and cultivaling five acres of commoa pine land, will be of any benefit to the planting interests of Georgia, 1 will not presume to say ; but must only hope, that others will pursue the plan with increased success. I will state, in the first place, that my land would produce, without manure, about six hun- dred pounds of seed cotton per acre, provided the season w'ere favorable to its growth : and, in the next, that my cattle had been fed and penned on the land. 1 will now proceed with my manner of planting, manuring, &c. My rows, 1 ran ofl on the plan of Dr. Cloud, that is to say, three feet by five, running the narrow way with a scooter, and the wide way with a common shovel, and trench-plowing it with the same plow. I then applied ten ox loads of well rotted lot and stable iijanure per acre, depositing against eveiy scooter lurrow, a shovelfuJl to two hills, and following with a turning plow, covered the manure, by running a furrow on each side ol that made by the shovel. This I did about the last of March. On the 5th of April, 1 planted my little field by opening the beds very shallow with a small scooter; -and having first rolled the seeds in leached ashes, dropped against the scooter furrow, and over the manure, ten or twelve seeds in each hill, and covered them with a hoe. With the exception of a small por- tion of the field, there was a very good stand. After the cotton was up, and of a suitable size, 1 plowed the middles close and deep with a sho- vel, having first run round it with a scooter. I immediately followed with the hoe, thinned it to two stalks, and put to it a little dirt. After this we had a long drouth. When 1 considered my cotton oat ol danger from the cut-worm and other insects which sometimes prey upon it, I again, with the hoe, pul a little earth to it to prevent its falling, and thinned it to one stalk. This was the last of May. WeJhen had a heavy rain; the ground becoming very vet, several days passed before 1 plowed my cotton : fori never thought it was good policy to plow soon after heavy rains. The afier cultivation con- sisted of two plowings with the sweep, and suf- ficient hoeing to kee; the cotton tree Irom grass. The result of which was, my field yielded 2CG0 pounds per acre, being 10,3i)0 lbs. laised on the five. My object was not so much to see what amount 1 could raise from one acre, but to make the most 1 could of my manure by spread- ing it upon fiye acres. J planted the Texan buri*'or bunch cotton, CAtYiN Le-arv. Houston Co., Feb. 10, 1845. , For the Southern Cultivator. Manure. Mr. Camak:— I am but comparatively a new farmer, and as my readings have not been much agricultural, 1 am a novice in husbandry: ne- verthele.ss, 1 shall go by the best knowledge I possess of this primitive and lundamental sci- ence and profession. Every lartner, by strictly reflecting and medi- tating on his business, lully as much so as the lawyer on his tomes, the doctor on his pharmacy, and the mechanic on the ivLprovabihty of his machinery and structures, cannot tail to become somewhat ol a Kliyogg, a peasant in Switzer- land, who renovated exhausted hill-lands, and rendered himself and household thereby affluent. He was caded the rural Socrates, But in general every body is attentive to his business but the farmer. Having an extensive Western country, a Texas, a Florida, and even an Oregon and a California, to settle; living contiguous to gold mines, &c. &c. &c., the American farmer, especially around about this section, appears to be the last man that will at- tend properly as he ought to his occupation ! As necessity is not only the mother ol invention, but also ot careful and assiduous enterprise, never, I lear, until our spare regions ol luxuri- ant tracts of land be surcharged with a redun- dant population, will the Georgia farmer begin to imitate the Yankee, or the English and French agriculturist. Still something may be done by those who are determined to abide and die on the soil of their native State, The first and almost the only necessity here, is with regard to manure. My maxim is: take care of your fences and the crop will take care of itself; and a consecutive addition is, and no less cogent: take care to provide abundant and loell preserved manure and your cribs will always have enough, not only, to subsist upon, but to sell. In a hilly region, so subject to washingduring every heavy rain, whereby the rich soils oi new- ly cleared grounds, no longer supported by the natural growths and leaves, are carried oli in, and even in opposition to, the plow ridges — leaving nothing but red clay to meet the contem- plation of the planter, giving growth, mainly, £o broom straw, it is virtually impossible lor any one to thrive without manures — and yet how lew ol our people ever think ol manuring such wastes, good alone lor brick-making. The cry is Westward Ho!— and fields are cleared and then exhausted, apd the .inhabitants are, at the erack of the wagon whip, moving for Alabama, Mississippi, &c. Soon Alabama and Mississippi will be re- duced to the same extremity; and if the emi- gration be for Texas, in spite of its alluvial de- posits, the same thriftless culture will make that bountiful country too a waste ! Not to use manure is too improvident tor Providence to bless. Resource there is none, whatever, it men do not mnmure and improve their hills, ex- cept cheating or stealing. And I have no doubt, many in the calendar of crimes owe the origin ol their folly to inattention, at the outset, to ag- riculture— at the time of clearing land to keep it always rich — hence want, &c. Manure is the grand consideration: without that at the basis cf every project, jou may talk aslongaslyou please about planting, plowing, harrowing, &c., nothing else would do. The best invention of ingenuity as to plantation tools, the best horses and mules, are of a verv inconsiderable yalue. And he must be “ moon struck,” or “have eaten ot the insane root,” who relies on the latter without the former. _ Luckily tor us, who live on these old red gul- lied hills, sometimes nearlv precipitous, all is a compact day, apd vyjll not slide Hire sandy oi loamy grounds; and being thus so tenacious, manure, deposited and well covered or plowed in, loiti be retained for yeans by the stiff clay, and repay fertilely the labors of the farmer. If a plentiful supply of this vital property of our fields could be obtained, the wastes around us would bloom like a garden. But It “ cannot be obtained f' Ol course then the argument drops to the ground. It cannot, indeed, be obtained by inadt ertenl ignorance. It can ba made, however, and accumulated by industrious wisdom; for the deriving and pre- servation of manure is an art and a science, no less than chemistry itself— one quality ol which it is. Guided by the advice ol Sir Humphrey Davy, that heat and dryness evaporate the fertilizing properties of manure unless limed or gypsum- ed ; and by that of Dr. Justus Liebig, that wa- ter is veiy decomposing; and decomposed ma- nure, otherwise than in the ground, covered for cultivating vegetation, looses its strength— the sal ammoniac, which is the living principle of all vegetables — the wise and sedulous farmer would collect all the manure he can at his sta- ble, barn, and in his yard, on a wet day, and de- posit them all under some good booth or shed, fit lor use when the planting season arrives. They would then be free from drying, and ex- empt from extraneous water, and retain their own radical moisture. An improvement on this plan would b^, to apply some bushels ol lime, gypsum, or plaster of Paris, to the heap, just as it is shovelled out of the wagon. This I intend to do so soon as I can command money that 1 can call my own, by virtue of owing no man any thing but love, and a good example, wherewith to purchase these indispensable articles. Yours, J. J. Flournoy. Wellington Farm, Jackson co., Feb., 1845. Agricultural .Meeting iu Putnam. FIeld, March 18, 1845. At a meeting held by the citizens ol Put- nam county in Eatonton, in accordance with previous notice, to form an Agricultural Socie- ty, and also to appoint delegates to represent this Society in the contemplated Agricultural Meeting o b-e held tn Milledgeville on the lifih Monday in this month— upon motion, Samuel Pearson, Esq, was. called to the Chair, and C. S. Credille reqaesied to act as Secretary. Alter sorns appropriate remarks, W m. Turn- er, Esq., submitted the following resolutions, which were adopted, to wit: Resolved, That this meeting form it.sell into an Agricultural Society, and proceed to the election of President, a Vice-President and Se- cretary ; the latter of whom shall be Treasurer. Resolved, That the Society forth wuth appoint one delegate frorn each disuici m the county, to represent this Society in the proposed Agri- cultural Meeting to be held in Alilledgeville on the fifth .Monday in this month. Resolved, That a commiite be appointed to draft a constitution lor the government of this Society, to be reported for consideration at our next meeting. The Society then proceeded to the election of officers, in accordance with the first resolution ; whereupon, Samuel Pearsoc, Esq., was elected President, John Farrar, Vice-President, and C. S. Credille, Secretary. They also appointed the following delegation to the contemplated Agricultural Meeting in Milledgeville — Win. McKinley, Wm. B. Ter- rell, Win. Turner, Samuel Pearson, Alexander B. Harrison, Robert Ladd, Wm. Garrett, Plea- sant J. Mullens, Lewis H. Llinch, Win. Far- rar^ Alexander C. Maddux, W^m. Hearn, John Copeland, Irby Scott, John A. Cogburn and Nathan Bass. On motion, the Chair appointed a committee of five, vig:— Win. Turner. Esq , A. D. Gate- wood, B. W. Johnston, Thomas Turner, jr., and Nathan Bass, to draft a constitution. On motion, the first Tuesday in next month was appointed lor our next meeting. The list was then opened lor the reception of members, and a large and very respectable num- ber had their names enrolled. E.esolved, cn motion, that our proceedings be published in the Milledgeville papers and the Southern Cultivator. The Society then adjourned. Samuel Pearson, Pres’t. C. £. Credille, Sec’y. Butter. — There arefew departments ol rural industry, in which there is so much room for improvement, as in the business of converting milk into butler! This will be admitted, readi- ly, by all who reflect, on the very small propor- tion, which really pure, well-flavored butter bears, to the whoje quantity exposed lor sale in the common market, or to that which is produc- ed in the countrjn The defective quality of butter arises no less from want cf care or skill in the management of the milk — probably much more from that cause — than from any effect upon the milk, resulting from the diflerence in the pasture and food of the cow; although the latter has^ doubtless, a pow- erful influence So sensible are they ol this iti- fluence in Seotland, that we observe among oth- er curious objects, never thought of in this country, a premium has been oflered there for the best essay 071 fAc ivfluence of food on milk amd butler. We cannot but.suppo.se, that the superiority of the butter in the Philadelphia market, arises, in a great degree, from, the na- ture of the pasturage ; consisting of long estab- lished “ English grass” meadows. He who will take the trouble to make the calculation, will be struck with the increase of national wealth which would accrue from an fm prove men t in the quality of our butter, I’-om whatever cause, that .‘hould add a few cents to its selling price, withoutsaying any thing about the increase of the quantity which could be easily obtained, by more careful nsilking, and a better system of dairy management. — N. ¥. Albion. Winter Butter.— Mr. Judge Kimbail, of Lindon, Vt., ha.s shown vjs some excellent but- ter made in December last. It is yellow as most of the tubs that are made in June. Mr. K. tells us he scalds his milk before set- ting it for cream ; and his mode of scalding is to heat a quantity of water in his boiler and set the milk pail in ihe hot water— not boilitig— till the milk has become thoroughly warm. It is then set in pans in a dairy where the heat is kept uniform at about sixty degiees. We think this is a better n-ode of making win- ter butter than scalding or freezing the cream. — Masso-chusel ts Plough ma n. A Good Compost for Sa.ndy Land — Take 10 loads of stable or barn-yard manure, 5 loads of clay, 10 bushels of ashes, and 20 bushels of lime, mix the whole well together, let it remain in pile a few days, turn it over, when it will be ■fit to apply to the land. The above quantity will make a better dress- ing for an acre of sand than twenty, or e.en twenty-five loads of stable or barn-yard manure alone, and will last lunger. Let any oiie who may doubt, trv it, and they will be convinced of the truth ot what we sav. Egyptian Corn. — Robert W. Williams, of Tallahassee, Florida, in a letter to the editor of the American Agriculturist, dated Nov iSdi, 1844, savs; “One n-ord about Egyptian corn. It is now green, with a crop ol from five to eight heads from each root more than half matured. This, should it mature, will be the fourth ripe seed that has been gathered from one planting. From the manner it continues to send un shoe. is from the old root, I am induced to try if it will not rattoon next spring, by protecting it this winter. “ The low price of the great southern staple is having the happy effect of causing proprieiors to give more of tlieir personal attention to their plantations; and, as a natural consequence, pro- ducing a taste for the science ol thc'r profession, and a demand lor agricultural publications and improved implements.” THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. From the Boston Plowman. Horse Breaking. There is a difference ofopinifin among horse dealers in regard to the time when you should commence showing your aulliority over the motions ot the young horse. Some contend that they can be belter broken after being al- lowed to run perfectly free for three or foui years; while others insist that there is danger of their becoming self-veilled it they are not compelled to submit at an earlier age. One point is certain : it is best to let the colt run per- lectly free until the time comes when you have the leisure to control him completely and ef- fectually. Half-breaking is worse than no bre iking; orders once given must be obeyed or orders would be better withheld. The first s'ep to be taken, in breaking a young horse, is to convince him most satisfactorily that his halier is stronger than himself. If he breaks his first rope he will never forget it; you may fasten him afterwards a hundred times with a timber chain and he will make a hun- dred attempts to break it— because his memory is better than his judgment. He must not be suffered to break loose, at the first lying, on any consideration whatever. We often see very gentle horses that will stand quietly in harness for hours, if you aueinpt not to fasten them ; yet they will give your halter a try as soon as they find you have attempted to make them fast. This will never be the case if you have done your duty in halter breaking. HOW TO MAKE A HORSE GO. The next step is to teach a horse to move at your bidding. For unless you can do this it is oflittle consequence vihether you can fasten him or not. A well broken horse will move when you desire he should, either forward or backward. You mu.'^t be extremely cautious bow you is- sue your first orders to “move.” You must not expect to be able to drag your horse after you until lie has become used to following — you cannot even “ lead him to drink” unless he wills to follow, and his will should be won by kind- ness, unless you prefer to rule always by brute force. After your colt is fairly halter broken — after he has been made fuliy sensible that your pow- er, at the post, is superior to his, you will do well to coax him to move, either by inviting him to eat something agreeable, or to follow some agreeable company. You may tie his halter fast about his motner’s neck, and he will walk by her side; or you may tie him to the shaft of the wagon to which she is harnessed, and let him travel with her. In some districts we find colts of jour months oil travelling with much regularity and order by the side of the mother that carries the family to meeting in the chaise. The colt’s halter is made fast to the fore end of the shaft, and he is kept out ot mischief, moreeffectually than some children are, during the whole of the service. Coltsthat have been taught to go to meeting are hall broken; whereas if they were allowed to run perteclly free, going to meeting would be of no service. Now vour colt is taught to stand and to move at your request; after much repetition he will acquire such a habit of obedience that it wi 1 be natural and easy to him. Before he is old enough to draw a load you can place a harness on him and let him become used to that. He should never be allowed to draw hard when youn?- Nor should any burthen, heavier than a saddle, be placei.i on his back before he is three years old. Some owneis will not allow a grown man to ride before the colt is four. BEST AGE FOR BREAKING. We cannot see but one objection to halter breaking while the coll is quite young, and that is the temptation to back him before his spine has become sirong enough lobeara great weight. The owner must guard against such an abuse, and he will then have a horse more kind, more gentle, more sale, and more certain in draft. than if bis colt were allowed to run wild till three or four years of age. In addition to this, the labor ot breaking will be found less if you comir ence with the first summer; and young colts bear restraint with less repining and loss of flesh than full grown colts. When you first put a young horse to drag a load, be quite -ure it is a light one. Never 'et him conjee ure that his load can keep him back. Teach him to proceed till you command him to stop, and mind that he stops on ground where he can readily start again. Speak plainly and distinctly to him. Say “ w hoa” when you mean w'hoa, and say “go” or “ come,” or something that sounds quite differently from whoa, when your meaning is difierent. We have had high spirited horses that wmuld stop at once, by the word of mouth only, w'hen the harness failed and the reins were broken— when the sleigh upset, and when the chaise broke down. With such horses you feel more safe than when you depend wholly on the rein, or youi blind bridle. You have a double chance of safety in. case of accident. BACKING OUT. Horses as w'elt as broken oxen should be taught the art of backing. How much we are t.'oubled to back some carriages out of a shed! A young horse should be taught to walk back- ward, while in a cart or chaise, where the ground descends and where he can easily fol- low. It is almost as easy to leach him to go back as to go forw'ard. Speak to him— say “ back,” plainly, ai d use such plain language as an Irishman can understand. From the Boston Cultivator. Poultry. A correspondent in Richmond, Me., contem- plating to keep a large number of fowds, makes inquiries as to the best breeds, mode ol manage- ment, the number that may be kept together, the- best grain raised in Maine for food, &c. &c. Although w’e have kept various breeiis ot fowls, we cannot determine which is best, and il inquiry be made of those who pay much at- tention to the subject, we find that opinions are as various as the}!^ are about the kinds of cattle. If we consult our poultry books, they only de- scribe fhe difierent varieties, leaving the reader to make his own decision. It is the same with fowls as with different kinds of cattle, one ex- cels in one thing, another in another. It is diffi- cult to find all the desirable ([ualities united in one breed. The Polands or Top Knots are among -the most noted birds. They are middling size, very beautiful, good layers, e.xcepting in cold wea- ther, and not inclined to sit,- Their flesh is ex- cellent, l^ut not good for the market, as their legs are black. They are rather tender, and the young chickens not so easy to raise as those ot the hardy races. This bird is seldom found ■ puie in New England, where peopte are noted for attempting improvements by mixtures. The Dorki-ngs are a lamuus breed, combining several good qnaTirie.s. Hood layers, sitters, nurses, and their flesh is good. Their legs are geiieraliy of a Tight or flesh color, having been bred in England where this color is prelerred, yellow being the .most objectionable color in that country. The.se are seldom found pure long alter they have been impor’ed. Some pre- fer the large white, others srvi' they are too coarse, and give their prel'erence to the small while, still leaving room for other opinions in favor ol the speckled vai iety. The BnrPs Cmmly is a large, hardy race*, and though the chickens have hardly any fea- thers lii! ihey are 4 orb weeks old, being as ugl\ looking as a toad, yet they are hardy. I'his bird is large. We have seen capons in this market from Pennsvl vania, about 18 months old, that weighed, dress'eJ, 194 d''*- a pait'- They often astoni.sh the Na'ives who inquire, “ what fowls are these'?” being puzzled to tell whether they are Iwkrys or geas’', never thinking that they are hens. When these chickens are about halt grown, they areas large as other birds nearly full grown, and W'ill sell well to persons who do not know' what is good to eat neither before nor after it is cooked. Their flesh is hard and coarse-grained, and the} are long in coming to maturity. They will answer for soups, broth, and slew's. They are not very good layers and their eggs are small for fowls of a large size. The Game breed is the best fighters. But since men have left off fighting themselves, they are not inclined to rear fowls lor cruel sports. They are good layers and are remarkably har- dy. Their flesh is the finest of any. But they are so pugnacious that the male chickens olien kill one another. A little touch of this breed is well in the chieftain of a flock, to give him a marshal bearing. We have a noble crow biddy which has a tincture of this blood ; but he does not fight, for he never runs after those 'who are disposed on his appearance to trust to speed for safety. One-sixth or one-eighth of this breed is enough in a class of animals that have as high a sense of honor as a duelist. The Boobies are valued by some, but we think that they are too clumsy and coarse; they lay small eggs for large fow'Is, and they are tender; the chickens a re difficult to rear. The Guilderlands are called fine fowls, but they are as yet but little known, and their pe- culiar qualities are not well defined. The Russian ox Siberian fowls are called ex- cellent layers. They are of a very grotesque appearance, having feathers resembling the beard of a .Tew, and quills or feathers on their legs. But little is known of them in this coun- try, and being scarce they are difficult to ob- tain. As to food in Maine, we believe that roots W'ill be the cheapest, such as potatoes and car- rots, using some pumpkins with them, and while hot, after boiling, stir in meal and bran . When grain is plenty, it is most convenient to use that as the principal food, especially in cold w'eather. In some large poultry establishments in Europe, roots are the principal food. We have heard and known several cases of keeping many fowls together, say several hun- dred, and' almost invariably failutes have taken place Irom the fow’ls being sick, or not laying enough to pay expenses. Whether the w ant of success has been owing to mismanagement, or to evils that naturally result from large flocks, we cannot tell. We should think il advisable in case of keeping large numbers, to divide them into flocks of about 50, or less, each. It may answ'er to have 100 in a flock, but w'e think they W'ill not do so w'ell as a smaller number. Reward of Industry. The Eufru’a(Aia- b'.ma) “ Shield.” of the 1st instant, says We were shrwn on Saiurday last, a beautiful set of Silver Castors, which were awarded bv the Apa- lachic.oto Chamber -of Commerce to C<4. A. 51 c-^ Donald,, of this place, fot the bes',-Iot of cotton of twenty bales,- sold in that city during the last se'i.son. The castors are [ lain and neat, co-ting SlOl in the city of New-York. Thus has the worthy Colonel been rewarded for his industry and skill — and as an indurement to others to direct iheir atiention more to the quality than the quantity of their cotton, w'e wi.l state '.hot Col. AtcDon'ild’s premium cqtton commanded, when sold, at least two cents more than the highest market price for good cotton. For [uesent crop nine cents have teen offered in the city of New York qnd refused Had eveiy p'oiHe:' in the cotton-growip£ region, pursued Col McDo- nald’-plan of raising cotton, no one can begin to estimate the advantages the ccnntiy would now be reaping. Wheff will the people learn wisdom? Sore Backs or Gai.i,s on EIorses. — Rub white lead in sweet oil until a g'lod paint is made, and apply a coating of this to the injured place. Milk will do where no oil is io be had. It is one of the most effeciive applications. — Some for the same difficnliy use a solution of vitriol in water; bur, in most cases, the white lead is preferable. — Far. CaLinet. THE SOUTHERX CULTIVATOR. 63 Horticultural Outline. | AN OUTLINE of the first principles of Houticulture, j by Jo ini Lind LEY, F R S. &c. &c., Professor ot^Bora- | ny in the University ot Loudon, and assistant Secre- tary of the Horticultural Society. — [continded ] III.— STEM. 57. The stem i-s that part of the plant which j is developed above-ground, and which took an ; upward direction at the period of generation. j *5S. It consists ot a woody axis, covered by I barn having stomata (l3l) on this surface, j bearing leaves, with leat-buds in their axillae, | and producing flowers and truit. I 59. The points where leaves are borne are I called IS'odi; the spaces between the leaves In- | ternodia. j 60. The more erect a stem grows, the ^more ; vigorous it is ; an t the more it deviates trom | this direction to a horizontal or pendulous po- j sition, the less is it vigorous. 61. Some stems are developed under ground, such as the Tabers of the Potatoe and the Co.“- mus of the Crocus; bat they are known from roots by the presence of leaves, and regular leaf-buds upon their surface. 6‘2. Ste.ms increase in diameter in two ways: 63. Either by the addition of new matter to the outside of the wood and the inside of the bark, when they are Exogenous ; ex. Oak; 61. Or by the addition of new matter to their inside, when they are Endoginus; ex. Cane. j 65. In Exogenous stems, the central portion, ] which is harder and daiker than that at the cir- cu.mference, is called while the ex- | terior, which is softer and lighter, is called Al- | burnuvi, or Sap-wood. I 66. The inside of the bark of such stems has also the technical name of Liber. 67. The Heart-wood was, when young, Al- burnum, and afterwards changed its nature, by becoming the receptacle of certain secretions peculiar to the species. 63. Hence the greater durability of Heart- wood than of Sapwood. While the latter is newly formed, eraotv tissue, almost as perisha- ble as bark itself, the former is protected against destruction by the introduction of secretions that become solid matter, which is often inso- j iuble in water, and never permeable to air. 69. The secretions by which Heart-wood is solidified are prepared in the leaves, whence they are sent downwards through the bark, and from the bark communicated to the central part of the stem. 70. The channels through which this com- munication takes place, are called AlsdvJlary Rays or Silver grain. 71. Medullary rays are plates of cellular tis- sue, in a very compressed state, passing from thf* pith to the bark. 7'2. The wood itself is composed of tubes consisting of woody fibre and vascular tissue, imbedded longitudinally in cellular substance. 73. This cellular substance only developes itself horizontally; and it is to it that the pecu- liar character of different kinds of wood is chief- ly due. 74. For this reason the wood of the stock of a grafted plant will never become like that of its scion, although, as v.nM be hereafter seen,- (IV,) the woody matter of the stock irfust all originate in the scion. 75. The stem of an exogenous plant may therefore be compared to a piece of linen, of which the weft is composed of cellular tissue, and the warp of fibrous and .vascular ti.ssus. 76 In the spring and autumn a viscid sub- stance is secreted between the wood and the li- ber, called the Cambium. 77. This Cambium appears to be the matter out of u hich the cellular horizontal substance -of the stem is organized. 78. lii Indigenous stems, the portion at the circumference is hafder than that in the centre; and there is no separate bark, 79. Their stems consist of bundles of woody matter, i nbedded in cellular tissue, and compo- sed of vat-cular tissue surrounded bv woody fibre. 80. The stem is not only the depository of the peculiar secretions of species, (67,) bat this is also the medium through which the sap flows in its passage from the roots in the leaves. 81. In Exogenous stems, (63,) it certainly rises through the alburnum, and descends through the bark. 82. In Endogenous stems, (64,) it probably rises throogh the bundlesof wood, and descends through the cellular substance; but this is un- certain. 83. Stems have the power of propagating an individual only by their Leaf-buds. If desti- tute of Leaf-buds, they have no power of mul- tiplication, except fortuitously. - IV. -LEAF-BUDS. 84. Leaf-buds are rudiments of branches en- closed within scales, which are imperfectly formed leaves. 85. All the leaf-buds upon the same branch are constitutionally and anatomically the same. 86. They are of two kinds, viz : regular ov nor- mal. and adventilious or latent, (H9.) 87. P>,egular leaf-buds are formed at the axil- lae of Leaves. 68. They are organs capable of propagating the individual from which they originate. 89. They are at first nourished by the ' fluid lying in the pith, but finally establish for them- selves a communication with the soil by the woody matter which the}' send downwards. 90. Their foice of development will be in proportion to th'^ir nourishment; and, conse- quently, when it. is wished to procure a young shoot of unusual vigor, al! other shoots in the vicinity are prevented growing, so as to accu- mulate for one shoof only, all the food that would otherwise have been consumed by seve- ral. 91. Cutting back to a few eyes is an opera- lion in prunihg, to produce the same effect by directing the sap, as it ascends, info two or three buds only, instead of allowing it to expend it- self upon ad the others which are cut away. ’ 92. When leaf-buds grow, they develops in three directions; the one horizontal, the other upward, and the third downward. 1 93. The horizontal development is confined [ to the cellular system of the bark, pith, and me- j dullary rays. I 94. The upward and downward develop- ments are confined to the woody fibre and vas- cular tissue. 95. In this respect they resemble seed; from which they difier physiologically in propaga- ting the indi vidual, while seed can only propa- gate the species. 96. When they disarticulate from the stem that bears them, they are called bulbs. 97. In some plants, a bud, when separated' •from its stem, will grow and form a new plant (f placed in circunistances favorable to the pre- servation of its vital pov.'ers. 98. But this property seems confined to plants having a firm, woody, perennial stem. 99. Saehbuds, when detached from their pa- ! rent stem, send roots downvrards and a stem upwards. 100. But it the buds are not separated from the plant to which they belong, the matter rhey send downwards becomes wood and liber, (56,) and the stems they send upwards become branches Hence it is said that wood and liber are lormed by the rco:s of ieaf-buds. Ifll. If no leaf-buis are called into action, there will be no addition of tvood; and conse- quently the destruction or absence of leaf-buds is accompanied by foe absence of wood; as is I proved by a shoot, the upper buds of which are destroyed and the lower allowed to dev'elopc. The lower part of the shoot will increase in di- ameter: the upper wili remain of its original dimensions. 102. The quantity of Vvond, therefore, de- pends upon the quantity of the leaf-buds that de- velope. 103. It is of the greatest importance to bear ' this in mind in pruning timber trees : lor ex- cessive pruning must necessarily be injurious to the quantity of produce. 104. If a cutting with aleaf-tud on it be placed in ci.rcumstances fitted tu the develop- ment of the latter, it will grow and become a new plant. 105. If this happens when the cutting is in- serted in the earth, the new plant is said by gardeners, to be upon its oivn bottom. 106. But if it happens when the cuttina is applied to the dissevered end of another indi- vidual, called a stock, the roots ate insinuated inm the tissue of the stock, and a plant is said to be grafted, the cutting being called a scion. 107. There is, therefore, little difference be- tween cuttings and scions, except that the form- er root into the earth, the latter into another plant. 103. But if a cutting of the sarnie plant with- out a leaf-bud upon it be placed in the same circumstances, it will not grow but will die 109. Unless its vital powers are sufiicienl to enable it to develope an adventitious leaf-bud, (119.) 110. A leaf-bud separated from the stem, will also become a new individual, if its vital ener- gy is sufficiently powerful. 111. And this, whether itis planted in earth, into which it roots, like a cutting, or in a new individual, to which it adheres and grows like a scion. In the former case it is called o.n eye; in the latter, a t/nd. 112. Every leal-bud has, therefore, its own distinct system of life, and of growth. 113. And as all the leaf-buds of an individual are exactly alike, it follows that a plant is a collectmn of a great number of distinct identi- cal systems of life, and ci-nsequenily a com- pound individual. 114. Regular leaf-buds being generated in the axillae of the leaves, it is there that they are always to be sought. 115. And if they cannot bediscovered by ocu- lar in.^-pections, it may nevertheless be always inferred with confidence that they exist in such situations, and may possibly be called from their dormant state into life. 116. Hence, wherever the scar of a leaf or the remains of a leaf can be discovered, there it IS to be understood- that the rudiments exist of a S3‘stein of life which may be, by favorable circumstances, called into action. 117. Hence, all parts upon which leaves have ever grown may be made use of lor pur- poses of propagation. 118. From these consideratione it appears that the most direct analogy between the ani- mal and vegetable kingdom is with the Poly- pus of the toTorer. 119. Adventitious leaf-buds, are in all re- spects like regular leal-buds, except that they are not formed at the axilim of leaves but de- velope occasionally from all and any parts of a plant. 120. They are occasionally produced by roots; by solid wood, or even by leaves and flow- ers. 121. Hence roots, solid wood, or even leaves and flowers may be used as means of propaga- tion. 122. But as the development-of adventitious buds- is exiremely • unceriai ; , such means of propagation can never be calculated on ; and form no part of the science of cultivation. 123. The cause lor the formation of adventi- tiou- leal-buds is unknown. 124. From certain experiments ft appears that they may be generated by sap in a state of great accumulation an i .activity. 125. Consequently, whatever tends to th“ ac- cumulation otsap in an active state may beex- pected to be conducive to the formation of ad- ventilious leaf-buls. {Toie'-ontnuH'^ An* Acre. — An acre of land contains— 4 roods, (or quarters,) each containing 40 poles or perches or rods; 160 rods, 18| leet each wav ; 4,840 square yards of 9 leet each ; 43,560 square feet, of 144 inches each; 174 '240 squares of 6 inches each, each containin? 36 inches; 6,272,= 640 inches, or squares of one inch each. THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. Stump Lifter. — What is the best kind oi machine for taking outstumps? Many contri- vances have been got up for the purpose of clearing fields ot stomps. One of the most common in this section is the wheel and a.xis, mounted on high posts so as to lift the stumps up. The Albany Cultivator has a cut ol one which it says cost $300 or $400, and which has cost the invertor, first and last, $L0,000, to bring to perfection. This appears to l)e an excellent machine, but although it requires but a single horse to pull up a stump of the largest rate, yet it costs too much lor “ these diggins.” We have seen the following very simple plan ol stump clearing, adopted with good success. Take a strong, stiff, hard wood stick of tim- ber, say fifteen or twenty feet long and six inch- es in diameter. Cut around the stump and take off some of the roots. Then place the timber upright against the slump, and chain them to- gether strong. Prom the upper end, which is now in the air, let the chain pass to the axletree of a pair of cart wheels, to the tongue ol which a pair of strong oxen are attached. When all is ready, start the oxen along, and the stump ''keels over" as easy as you capsize a cabbage in a garden. — Maine Farmer. COUTEHTS OF THIS HUMBER. Agricultural Society, Harbour County page 54 Agricu llural Meeting in Putnam. '• 61 Agriculiural Chemistry “ 55 Agriculto al Education. “ 56 Agriculture and Rural Economy of the South. . “ 49 Itermuda Glass. “ 57 Hroora corn and tobacco “ 57 Butter, causes that affect Us quality ; Winter Rutier “ 61 Oampost for sandy lands, a good “ 61 Corn, Indian, on the culli'ration of “ 52 Corn, Egyptian ... “ 61 Corn stalk sugar ; Egyptiaircotton . . “ 5t) Cotton Culture — successful inelhr.d' “ 60 Dogs ‘‘ 58 Ellsworth's Report. . “ 53 Examples for Planters “ 59 Hogs, Bet k.'hire. . ‘‘ 60 Horse Breaking “ 62 Horticultural outline “ 6.3- How ' o get Sound Sleep and Pleasant Dreams. . “ 57 Industir, reward of ; galls on Horses, to cure.. 0 62 Belter fiom Col. MeDonald “ 60 Beiluce, on the cultivation of “ .52 Manure “ 61 Planter, the “ 53 Postage “ 56 Poultry 62 Practical Husbandry “ 51 Premium, a “ 56 Premiums awarded 56 Rotation, necessity of “ 53 An acre. 63; Gulf Stream, 55; Electric ity, 59. AGKHCEJLiTUIS AS. I HPfi.EilBENTS. Hazard, denslow & webster Savannah, Gen., rrear the City Hotel, Dealers in PAINTS, OILS, WINDOW GLASS, GUNPOWDER, SHOT, PAPER, AND AGRICULTURAL IMPLEMENTS. In audition to their usual slock of the above named articles, the subscribers have, within the last year, made large additions In their assortment of Agricul- tural Implements, and now offer to planters a greater variety than any other establishment in- the Southern country: amongst whisch may be found the following articles, viz : PLOWS. Yankee cast iron. No. 10, 11 12 and 20 Plows. Dagon. or Connecticut wrought I\o. 1, 2 and 3 do Allen pattern, do Rnggles, Nourse & Mason’s improved do Viz; — Ergle plow, heavy, two horse or ox, “ do do with wheel and cutter, do- No. 2 B Plow, for two horses, do “ 2 B do with wheel and cutter, do, “ A 3 do ni' dium, two horse, do '• A3 do wiih wheel aud cutler, do “ A 2 do light two horse do “ A I do do one mule, or garden do “ 6 in. do do one horse turning do “ 7 in. do do do do do “ 15 do new pattern, 1 horse, for light soil, do Subsoil do heavy, two horse, or ox do do do No. 1 do do do do do do 0 one hor.se do Double mould-board or furrowing do Cotton trenching . - do Rice do with guage wheel, do . A 1 side-hill, or swivel mould-board, do No. 0 do do for one horse, do Plow irons set up, of the above kinds: also, extra slocks, which can be packed in small compass, thereby making a great saving ill transportation. Mould-boards, points and heels or landsides, for all the above plows. Improved cultivators, with gnage wheel Cultivator plows, or horse hoes, Common Harrows Folding do improved kind, Boxed lever straw cutters Improved self-feeding strew and corn stalk do, with spiral knives, simple in construction, Corn and cob crushers (hand mill) do do for horse power HOES. . Lyndon’s-extra black,Carolina hoes.Nos.0. 1,2&3 do bright do do 0. 1, 2 & 3 do new ground do doPP&PPP do ovaJ eye grubbing do do 2&3 do round do do do 2 & 3 Anchor hoes Blades, paten tdo Light Yankee do CHAENS. Straight link trace chains, I Ox chains Twisted do do do 00, 0, 1 & 2 doO, 1,2,3&4 Log chains from iOlo lSf’t MISCELLANEOUS ARTICLES. Collins’s Axes. Root’s do King’s do Bond’s do. Ames’s Shovels, do Handled Spades, do Socket do Don Shovels, ass’ ted kinds, Long Handled Sliovels, Manure Fbrksj Hay do English patent Scythes, American grass do Grass platt do Brush and' briar do Briar h.ooks,. Cosn-eutters, Reap hooks. Scythe Snaiths, Gra-iti cradles, new pattern. Rice cradles do Ox-bows, Horse rackets,. Dirt scrapers. Fan mills, Patent churns, Cotton foot gins, Flails, Axe-helves, Swingletrees, Plow lines, Wheelbarrows, Horticultural chests. Pruning shears, Ditching knives, Garden fioes,vaiiouskinds. Garden rakes. Flour-scrapers, Toy hoes, Garden reels, Transplanting trowels, do Forks, Garden-lines, Post spoons, Ox-yokes, [ The subscribers have made such arrangements as will enable them to procure any improvements which may be made in the plow, or other kinds of implements suit- ed to this section, and trust from their great variety, mo- derate prices and exertions to please, they may receive a liberal share ot public patronage. Planters, mer- chaiUs, and manufacturers are respectfully Invited to examine their stock. Orders thankfully received and promptly attended to. l-ly CJAKBJBilN A1\'E> FSldlaU SEEBSs A GENERAL assortment ol'lresh and genu- iiie Garden anxi Field Seed, among, which are the following r Red and white clover, Blue and green grass. Rve and orchard do Timothy and herds do Millet and Lucerne do Seed corn of every valiia* Buclcwheat Augusta. Social Circle Madison. October 29s 1844. Dear Sir — I regret it was not in my power yes- terday, when I saw you, to give you any opinion with regard to a small lot of cotton I have grow- ing from seed presented to me last spring Ly my friend John W. Graves, Esq. Since then, how- ever, 1 have been to my plantation and made com- parison of it with my crop of cotton, and now take pleasure i.u saying to you, it is a superior ar- ticle in point of fineness and length of fibre, con- taining more lint on the seed, and will yield much more from the same quantity oi land piaiiit-d. I am respectfully, dear sir, your obedient servant, [Signed] Wm. Johnston. Georgia, Newton County: I hereby certify that I obtained from John W. Graves, of this county, a sack of Cotton Seed (which he represented of superior quality intro- duced from Texas,) which I p’anted last spring, J find to exceed iiiy most sanguine expectation. I planted it two or three weeks alter my other cotton, (which is the Petit Gulph,) and notwith- standing the season wns dry and unfavorable throughout the year, (the growing season) yet it is by far the best cotton lever made. I think by the time it is all gatliered, the best part will yield 2000 to 2500 pounds per acre. My neighbors who have seen it are of the same opinion. From the trial 1 have made, I believe it will yield double as much as my other cotton on land of the same fer- tility. [Signed] Jackson Harwell, 24th October, 1844. Georgia, Morgan County : This is to certify that I am neighbor to JohnT McNeil, Esq., and that he last spring got a load of Texas Cotton Seed from John W. Graves, Esq., ol Newton county, and planted them on what I consider average land of his farm ; and from frequent observation of the crop, with his other cotton, (which is the Petit Gulph,) I do be- lieve it will far excel any other cotton I have ever seen raised in this section of eouniry. And I also believe that the staple exuels any other I have ever examined, as to fineness and color. [Signed] John P. Evans. This will certify that I acted as overseer for Mr. John T. McNeil for the year 1844. My know- ledge of farming induces me to believe that the Texas Cotton, raised by Mr. McNeil this year, is a very superior article, and with me preferable to any other cotton I have ever raised. It is of long and fine staple, and well boiled, and easily picked) out, and has withstooda drought this year better than the Petit Gulph Cotton. It is, in a word, a valuable cotton. I have ginned eight bales of the Texas Cotton on Mr. McNeil’s Carver Gin, and find that it yields one pound of clear cotton from three of seed cotton ; and from my experience of thirty years in cotton growing. I have never rais- ed any I think equal to the Texas Cotton. [(Signed] Allison Kent. Augusta, October 30, 3844. John TV. Graves, Esg. ; Dear Sir — Having been called on by you to make a statement in relation to your Texas Cot- ton, we take pleasure in saying, that for the last two or three years we have received at our ware- house your cotton crops. The quality has inva- riably proved very supeiior, both as to color and length of staple. On sale, it has always bre ught the highest market price. We consider it u very superior article in the cotton line. Your obedient servants, Adams & Hopkins. Mr. John T. MeNeil ; Dear 3ir — We have received the two bales of Texas Cotton sent by you to us, and take pleas- ure in saying that in color and length of staple it is superior to anything we have seen ; and cheer- fully recommend it as such as will always bring the highest market price. Your obedient servants, n5-wp&Ctl Clark & Rob-erts. ®}]e Sont!)i’ru OTultiiiator Is published on the first of every month, at Augusta, Ga J. W. & W. S. .TONES, PRUPRIETORS. EDITED BY J.AMEs ewi vK. OF ATHENS, GA. TERMS.-ONt DOLLAR A YEAR. 1 copy, one year,... Si 00 I 23 copies, one gear.. .S20 09 6 copies, " ..... 5 ou I too copies, “ .. 75 00 [All subscriptions imist commence with the volume. I Tk3 CA'H System will be rigidly adhered to, and in no case will the paper be sent unless the money accompanies, the order. Advertisements pertaining to. A.grfcnltu-e, will be i-n-- serted for one dollar for every square of ten lines or less, for the first insertion, and ssvent''-five cents per square for each continuance. 0;5=P 'ST .M.t^sTERs are authorized to receive and for- ward money free of postage. tCJ—ALL COMMUNICATIONS MUST BE POST PAID, and addressed to JAMES CAMAK, Athens, Georgia. % Mode of Cultivating Tobacco in the Island of Cuba. Your nurseries are the first to be attended to, in your prep iraiion for a crop, by selecting at the proper season a rich and tolerably moist piece of new ground, and prepare i' by burning it off very clean, and breaking it up. The seed is then to be sown broadcast upon it, and when they are up, they are to be overlooked daily, to see that the cut-worm does not commit ravages among the young plants ; and as fast as the plants arrive at a proper size, they are to be transferred to the Tobacco field, to make room for the smaller plants of the nursery. As casualties frequently arise to destroy some of the nurseries, it is necessary to guard against a probability of not having a suffi- cient number of plants, by making three or four nurseries, at an interval of one or two weeks each. Much attention should be observed to keep both your nurseries and field very dean, particular. y of grass, and for that reason new lands are pre- ferred for both. In Cuba, they plant on an even surface, and disturb it as little as possible with the hoe, only picking out the grass or weeds which spring up. The plants, when transferred to the field, are to be planted in squares, at about from two to three feet apart, according to the strength of the land. The high lands in Cuba are such as produce the quality of Tobacco, both as to strength and color, that suits the .American market best, and such lands correspond nearest to our high hammocks. The greatest enemy to the plants,, both in the nursery and in the fields, (while small,) is the cut-worm, which has to be looked after early every morring, and wherever they have eaten the plants, they are to be found and killed, either on the plant cr on the ground near it. When the plants get to be larger, then the lame green Tobacco- worm is to be constantly guarded against, and the suckers also continually broken ofi as fast as they appear, and when the Tobacco is judged to be of a sufficient height, it is to be topped and allowed to mature for cutting. The time of maturity is ascertained by the leav’es changing gradually their color, beginning at the bottom leaves, from their deep green growing color, to a yellowish green ; but if this is not suf- ficiently obvious, a td you deepi your Tobacco ripe, you may test it by crushing together the tip of any of the upper leaves, which, if it snaps, is a sign of it= beingripe; but on the contrary, if it does not snap, it is not fully matured. VVhm ripe for the knife, it is cut down near the ground, leaving twm suckers, which have been spared a week or two prior, ready to grow up and produce a second crop, and also a third crop may be real- ized in the same manner. The Tobacco is to be conveyed carefully in wide thongs of cowhide to the house, to be hung up; a shed is preferred, with free space for ventilation beneath, and after tying the plants together, two to each string, and leaving space enough between them to insert a wooden peg, you hang them up, by intruding them above each rafter up to the ridge of the house, being careful not to hang them so near that they v.ill touch or crowd each other in dry- ing, or your Tobacco v^dll mould, .-f Iso when the weather is moist, you must make small fires enough under it, to keep out the moisture, but not enough to heat your Tobacco. When the leaves are perfectly arvq the whole are to be taken down, and placed in a press for a few hours, the object of which is, if the Tobacco is too dry to strip off without breaking the leaves, that they may become soft and pliable, but great care must be taken that it does not heat, and it must be strictly examined, by inserting the hand to ascer- tain that it becomes not too hot. The press is made by putting rails or poles crosswise of each other, in form of a rack, and placing cow-hides under, over and around theTobacca, and placing ' upon it something somewhat weighty. It is then ■ to be stripped le^ by leaf from the stock, and ‘ being selected, the wrappers from the fillers, to i be tied at the butts, and prepared for market. It is sometimes usual to put it again in press after | being stripped. — Floridian. ! Tamiing on the Flaiitatiou. i Tanning leather, for the use of the plantation, 1 is an item of good management that should not j be overlooked by any planter. 2sor would it be j as much overlooked as it is, if the simplicity of 1 the process was generally known — that process, I mean, that will suffice' for making leather for home use. Th ' tanner by profession, in order to | prepare an article that will command agood price in market, and have a merchantable aopearance, puts the hides and skins through a greater num- ber of manipulations; and, that he may work to better advantage, has his arrangeraenls on a more extensive scale. ' The vats, tools, and implements really needed, are few and simple. Four rafs wall generally be found all-sufficient ; one for a pool of fresh water, and for baiting, ■ one iox liming ; another for coZor- J ings and a fourth for tanning. The best size, in > the clear, is seven feet long, four and a half feet ; wide, and five feet deep. They should be placed ' so as to be easily and conveniently fi led with j water from a spring, running stream or cistern. ; Dig the holes 9 feet, by and 6 ; if the founda- ! tion is day, the depth need not be over 5 feet. } Fonn a stiff bed of clay mortar in the bottom, on j w'hich to la}’' the floor, and on it erect the sides and ends of the vat, of plank of almost any kind, sufficiently thick to resist the pressure from with- out— two inches will be thick enough. When this is done, and the tvhole nailed fast, fill in the vacant space round with well-tempered clay mor- tar, ramming it effectually : it is on this, and not the planks. That dependence is placed for render- ing the vat perfect. When well made, a vat will ’ be good for a lo'og lifetime — the ooze preventing i the decay of any but the top round of plank, j Such a vat will hold 1-5 large beef hides (30 sides,) besides a number of small skins. The material used for tanning, is the bark of ' the red or black oak, stripped when the sap flows 1 in the spring, stacked and dried — of which, about ' four pounds are supposed to be necessary to pro- . duce one pound of leather. There is an article ' occasionally used, called catechu,'’ whichis an i extract made from the wood of a mimosa-tree, a native of India, half a pound of which answers the same purpose. Galls, ttrillow bark, the bark of the Spanish chesnut, and common elm, as also suntach, am all used by the tanner. It has been recently found that the root of the palmetto answers an equally good purpose with the best | oak bark. Bark has to be ground as wanted ; or if the ' quantity needed is small, and it is not thought ad- , visable to incur the expense of a bark-mill (from : ■SIO to -SIS.) it may be pounded in a large mortar, ' or beat up on a block. It will require one third i more of pounded than of ground bark, to afford , equally strong ooze, which is the infusion of bark, i The principal tools requisite, are a fieshing- j knife, currier's knife, n brush like a stiff horse- ! brush, and a Jlishing-beam. The fleshinor-beam i is made by splitting in two a hard-wood slick of | about a foot in diameter; inserting two stout | legs, some thi'ty inches long, in one end of the i split side, so that the other end rests on the ; ground, with the round side up, the elevated end ! being high enough to reach the workman’s waist, i A fieshing-kniie may be mads by bending an old dfaw-knite to suit the round of the fieshing-beam. The skins of bulls, oxen, cows, and horses, are called Ziirifs; those of calves, deer, sheep, &c., are known ns skins. Fresh and dried hides receive the same treat- ment, except in the washing process. Those that are sailed and dry (and no hide should be dried with less than from two to four ouarts of salt be- ing rubbed on the flesh side — dried without salt, it is extremely difficult to soften them,) require to be steeped, beaten, and rubbed, several times al- ternately, to bring them to a condition sufficient- ly soft for tanning. Green or fresh hides must be soaked in pure wafer from 12 to 24 hours, to extract all the blood, & c., and soften the extraneous fleshy matter, which must then be removed — throwing one hide at a time on thefleshing-beam, grain or hair-side down, and scraping or shaving off with the flesh- ing-knife, which must be somewhat dull, or the skin is apt to be cut. They are then put in the liming-vat, which is supplied with strong lime- water, by filling the vat a little over half full of water, and adding thereto four bushels of un- slaked (or of air-slaked) lime, or at the rate of two-thirds of a bushel of lime to the barrel of w'ater. This will suffice for fifteen hides ; each time that they are removed and a fresh lot of hides put in, add another bushel of lime, which will keep up the strength for a twelve month. Before using, stir the lime well up, and whileit is thus mixed with the water, put in the hides even- ly, so that the li.me will settle on every part of them. They are to remain here from ten to fif- teen days, or for three or four days after the hair will rub off with the finger completelv and with ease. While in the liming-vat, they must be moved up and down every other morning, to ex- pose them to the air, and to the equal action of the lime. Being now ready for unhairing, cut each hide in twm, by slitting them along the centre of the back with a knife, forming them into sides. Throw ten or twelve of these sides on the flesh- ing-beam, and strip the hair off with the knife; and as they are unhaired, throw each one into the vat of fresh water to bait or soak. When the lot of sides and skins in hand have been all unhair- ed and thoroughly washed, throw them again, and at once, on thefleshing-beam, with the grain or hair side up, and icash them over (rub and press them.) with the knife until all the gummy or mucilaginous matreris worked out. This should be repeated two or three times during ten or twelve days, being each time baited anew in fresh water. And this working over must only be done when the sides feel soft and smooth to the touch ; as they will at times, from some unexplained cause, feel rough, at which time they' must notbe worked over. While they are thus baiting, they must sot be neglected, or they will soon spoil. Tanners are in the practice of adding lOCOth part of sulphuric acid (oil of vitriol) to the last bait, which has the effect of swelling the pores and distending the fibres, and thus rendering the skins more susceptible to the action of the ooze ; forty-eight hours generally suffice for this last baiting. In the meantime, some good strong oo-c should be prepared for the first tanning process, called coloring. Fill a vat a little more than half full cf water, and add bark, in the proportion of one and a half bushels of ground, or two bushels ofpound- ed bark, to the barrel of wate’, which will bring the v’at up to about two thirds full. When the bark has soaked from four to five days, the sides are put in, and allowed to remain fifteen days; duiinaf which they must be once well and careful- ly dfes-ried and worked over, and must be drawn up and down every morning, for the first week at least, and the bark well gZunged or stirred up, to have them color evenly. After this, the vat being now two thirds full of this same ooze, after drawing out the hides, lay a 66 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. good coating of fresh bark, of say an inch thick, on the top of the water, on which it will float ; lay on this a side, spread out evenly; and if it has to be lapped over in any part, lay on more bark until it is all well coated, taking care to place those at the bottom of the vat now, that were at the top last tinie. On this side lay an inch coating of bark, and on that another side, and so on, with alternate layers of bark, until the vat is full, or the sides all laid away. In this, which is called t\\e first hark, the sides must lie four weeks. They are then drawn out, and the spent-bark, taken out with a skimvier or drainer. The sides are then replaced as be- fore, with alternate layers of fresh bark, in the same ooze, which has acquired some additional strength, notwithstanding the amount of tanning and extractive matter contained in the bark, that has become intimately combined with the animal fibre of the hide. In this second bark they re- main six weeks undisturbed, when they receives third bark, in the same way, in which they are left another six or eight weeks. Three barks will suffice to tan deer, hog, calf, and other small skins ; four barks will make good sole leather, bat five are preferable. The tanning process being completed, sole lea- ther is taken out of the vat, rinsed eflectually, and dried in the shade, hanging the sides up by two of their corners to joists, where they remain un- til wanted. Those sides Intended for upper and harness leather, (which are those of cows, &c. — the largest and thickest bullock hides being used for sole leather,) as also deer, hog, and other small skins, being thoroughly rinsed, are spread out on a stiong table, with the grain or hair side up, and scoured with a stiff brush, like a very stiff horse- brush, occasionally throwing on pure water, un- til oZZ f/ie oo^e is scoured out. Tanners use the edge of the stone, made smooth, to assist in rub- bing out the ooze, and all the water that can possibly be rubbed out. They also use w'hat they call a dicker, being a dull edge of copper of about six or seven inches long, set in a piece of wood, to serve as a handle. After they are all served thus, and rubbed as dry as possible, the table is cleaned off, and the skins thrown back upon it, grain side up, and are rubbed with tanner’s oil (cod-fish oil) as long as the leather will receive it. Harness leather must be completely saturated. As they are oiled, fold them up and lay them aside. When they are all gone over, lay one on the tabic at a time, flesh side up, and with a rag rub on all the cZwbbing that the leather will absorb. Thin hides require but a small quantity; harness leather must have a heavy coating.’ Dubbing, which consists of equal parts of tar and tallow, melted together, and well mixed, must be made the day previous to being used. Lard may he used in place of tallow, but will require a lesser proportion of it. Each side of leather is then hung up by two corners to joints, there to remain until perfectly dry, or until wanted. If iron or steel touches a hide during the process of tanning, when in the least w'et, or even moist, it will discolor it, forming an indelible black mark. To blacken harness or other leather, take the skin when completely dried, and if any greasy spots appear, showing that more oil or dubbing has been applied than the leather could absorb, wet the spots with a little strong ooze, and scrub them out with a brush. Then apply a good coat of copperas, (sulphate of iron) dissolved in ooze, until the leather has a good color all over. After this, when dry, put on another good coat of oil. The leather may then be smoothed off with a rounding edge of polished steel, or glass, or stone. T. Affleck. Ingleside, (Miss.) Sept. 19, 1843. — [Am. Agr. Yellow Locust. — If you have but little fencing timber fit for posts on your farm, sow a few pounds of yellow locust seed, and when the plants are two years old they may be transplan- ted. In twelve years from the time the seed is sown you may begin to cut them for posts. Say you, twelve years is a longtime to wait; but you should recollect, that every farmer has some spot where they might be grown, and that, as fencing is a dear article, every farmer should endeavor to grow his own timber. In Setting Trees, do not place them deep, and let the earth around them remain concave that it may catch the water. Corn-Stalk Sugar. To Ccl. A. G. Summer, Editor South Carolinian : — Dear Sir— When I saw you last, you asked me for some directions for cultivating Corn- stalks and making Sugar. 1 transcribe you an article, containing much useful information on the subject, from the Saturday Courier, publish- ed in Philadelphia. I now take pleasure in coihplying with ray promise, to furnish you with my own experience. DIRECTIONS FOR CULTIVATING THE CORN- STALKS, AND MAKING SUGAR. “In various portions of the country, the cul- tivation of Corn for the manufacture of Sugar, continues to excite attention. The public are seeking information upon the subject, as the dis- covery that Sugar can be made from the stalks of Coin, is of recent date. We take pleasure in presenting our readers any facts that may be of importance, upon the subject. Dr. Naudain, of Delaware, who has had opportunities to gath- er knowledge upon the various experiments that have been made, presents some views which will not fail to be regarded with interest. “ With regard to the culture, it is stated that Corn should be planted as Broom-corn is com- monly planted, very close in the row, probably a stalk every three or four inches. The tillage will be the same as for Broom-corn. When the young ears begin to appear, it is necessary to pluck them off carefully, and to repeat the gath- ering as often as necessary, so as to prevent the formation of any grain. Because, if grain be allowed to form, it takes all the Sugar from the stalk. About the time the corn begins to har- den, the making of Sugar should be begun. “ It is not necessary to say anything about a proper mill to crush the stalks and separate the juice, because mills of the cheapest kinds only should be employed now, until the business would, fully warrant an expensive outlay. It would probably be found that the common cider mill, with plain cylindrical nuts, would be quite sufficient for the farmer who would raise a fourth or halt an acre of Corn for Sugar, for his fami- ly, and this quantity would be quits sufficient for satisfactory experiment. “When the juice is separated from the stalk, about a tablespoon full of whitewash, made of the best quick lime, and about the consistence of thick cream, should be added to each gallon of the juice, and then the boiling should commence. The scum that rises should be careluily re- moved; and the juice, if this process has been properly conducted, will be quite clear, nearly colorless. Then commences the process of evaporation ; and when the juice has boiled down in about the proportion of eight gallons to one, the boiling will be completed, and it may be poured out into a shallow, tight wooden box to grain. “It has been ascertained, although as yet the reason is not known, that if the juice be boiled in a deep vessel, like the common cooking ves- sel, Sugar will seldom be obtained; while, if it be done in a shallow vessel, so that the juice at the commencement of the boiling shall not be more than three to five inches deep, Sugar would be obtained without difficulty. It has been as- certaineu, also, that the Sugar from Corn will not grain so readily as that from the Sugar- cane; and in some instances, it has remained more than a week after the boiling, before the Sugar was formed, and yet excellent Sugar was made. “It should be particularly remembered, that the juice should be boiled as soon as separated from the stalk. It becomes acid very soon, and no Sugar can be made if the juice be allowed to stand two or three hours before it is boiled. The juice will even spoil in the stalk before it is ground, if the stalks be cut oft' a few hours be- fore grinding, it is necessary, then, that every part of the process should be done with the greatest despatch. The stalks should be brought to the mill as soon as cut, and ground immedi- ately. The vessel for boiling ought to be pro- perly filled in two hours grinding, and the pro- cess of boiling down should immediately com- mence, and be continued until completed. “ Excellent Syrup, superior to the best Mo- lasses, will be obtained by observing the above directions, and boiling five gallons of juice to one gallon. “ The juice of the Corn-stalk is very rich in Sugar, when cultivated in the manner suggest- ed. Tested by Beaume’s Sacharometer, the in- strument used to measure the strength of syrups, the juice ol the Corn-stalk weighs 10 to lOj de- grees, which is about the weight of the best cane in the West Indies, and is richer than the juice of the cane in Louisiana, which is seldom heavier than degrees. “ One gallon of juice will produce nearly I J pounds of Sugar ; and one acre of good Corn will yield, if carefully expressed, from 700 to 1000 gallons of juice.” I have but little information to add to the above article. My kettle holds eighty gallons, though a sixty gallon kettle might answer the purpose, but probably it would be best to procure a shal- low vessel, as above recommended for making Sugar. I made three boilings before I made good syrup, not boiling down sufficiently the two first boilings. Prepare yourself with a skim- mer, a gourd with a long handle will do to re<. movej:he scum when it begins to boil, and lor a short time after. Leave off skimming when you see the dark glutinous scum is pretty well removed. Also, prepare yourselt with an iron ladle, with an iion handle attached to it about three feet long, (which any blacksmith can make,) perforated with small holes. Whoever attends the kettle must use this ladle, in raising thejuice with it, whenlikely to boil over. When the juice boils down considerably, you will see the bubbles begin to show and burst on the sur- face. When you see a few such bubbles, if it be your object to make syrup, I think then is the’time to take it out ; but if you wish the syrup to granulate, boil till the bubbles become gene- ral on the surlace. You can also test it, by dip- ping oat some syrup with a tablespoon, and when it cools sufficiently, by taking it between your thumb and lore linger; and if it inclines to rope, it is syrup, but if it will rope about an inch it will granulate. You can boil rapidly at the commencement while the juice is thin, but as it thickens boil vdlh more moderation. If you boil too rapidly after the bubbles begin to burst on the surface, you will certainly burn it, and it will give it a candy taste. If you cannot get lime conveniently, lye will answer the pur- pose. I should say, put in about a half a pint of lye to every fifteen gallons of juice. Throw in the lye or whitewash made from the lime, im- mediately after you quit removing the glutinous scum. "Vyhen you have boiled to satisfy your- self, take out the syrup and put it in some shal- low vessel tocool. I am inclined to think, when the juice has been extracted from the stalks by a w’ood mill, that if they were chopped up and boiled in water, good vinegar could be made from them. 1 advise you to build a wood mill. The expense is trifling. You can get a me- chanic in my neighborhood, who will build you one for twenty dollars, by furnishing him two assistant hands; otherwise, send over a common mechanic, and alter looking at mine, w'hichis a good model, you can have one made at home. I advise y ou to plant your Corn for experiment in bottom land (if not rich, make it rich by im- provement) in drills, from four to six inches in the drill, and the drills from thirty to thirty-six inches wide. Now, sir, I close my crude direc- tions, by wishing that you may win in this race, and that we may all win, and that another arti- cle of general consumption may be added to the products of South Carolina. Yours respectfully, James S. Pope. Island Ford, Edgefield Dist., S. C., Feb. 1845. We sow half a bushel of corn (cost 33 cents) on two acres planted w’ith corn — on the surface. "We thus coax the birds to come and see us, and we make it their interest to meddle with nothing that is planted. It costs us less than twine, or tar, or feathers on a pole.— PW. THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 67 Butter. — Diificuity iu Churniug. Mr. Cabinet — Please to ask yonr folks, in- stead of writing so many thing.? which we know already— and some we don’t want to know — to turn their atiention to the department of female husbandry^ and instruct us a little in that. In the days ot our grand-dames— as many a legend tells us — when witches were almost as numerous as cats, and quite as mischievous, riding broomsticks on their errands of mischief, the good housewife frequently encountered the greatest difficulty from their malicious interler- ence with her household affairs; unless her stable door and “ that dear cot her home,” were protected by the potent charm ol an old horse- shoe, the horses’ manes andtails would be twist- ed into the cows would either be sucked dry, or their milk turned to blood, or when churn- ed would not make butter; her vinegar would not stay in the barrel, nor her soap in the tub, nor could she even supply its loss, unless she Used the precaution to stir the soap pot with a sassafras stick, top down. In those perilous times, stern necessity devised many means to break the spell, to burn the witch, or to douse her into scalding water. But to us who are young, this is mere matter of history — fabulous history it would seem— lor no sooner did the people cease their efforts to keep the loilckes out, than they made the discovery that there were none {o gel in. Oh, pshaw! 1 sat down to inquire about churning, and here is a homily on witch- craft. It is a fact unfortunately too well known, that in small dairies of one or two cows, perhaps cows which have been milked for several months, there is often much difficulty expe- rienced in churning the cream into butter, es- pecially in cold weather — sometimes the cream is converted into a thick froth, and will not break; at othertimes. the butter forms into small pellets resembling fish eggs, and will not gather. Notv it is no trifle to have ail the trouble and labor of gathering the cream, and churning a whole day, perhaps two or three ot them, and have to eat your buckwheat cakes without but- ter at last. Formerly it was only necessary to expel the witch, and all was right; but now-a- days, there is no witch, and we don’t know what to do. One thinks her cow is too poor to churn for and exchanges her for one no better. Another can’t gel butter because her cows are fed on tur- nips or pumpkins. A third condems oats’ straw as feed for cows, and who would not agree with her in that; and some think that even the oats themselves, ground either alone, or with corn, make inferior butter or none at all. Now, all this may or may not he so. We think there is some difference in cows, and in cow-feed too; for we see a great difference be- tween the milk of different cows, and of the same cows under different keeping. Still, as the complaint seems only to prevail in winter, we think that winter may have something to do with it, especially as our own cream will churn readily one week, and hardly at all another, cows and food the same. Now, what do your Cabinet folks say to this 7 you often talk about chemistry. Nowcan’tyou tell us what is the chemical process of convert- ing cream into butter, what constitutes the dif- ference between the two; and w^iat are the es- sential conditions necessary to effect the change 7 Do tell us where the crearn-pot should be kept in cold weather7 How it should be stirred and managed 7 What put into it 7 How the churn should be prepared, &c. &c. Do tell us all about it, and oblige a whole heap of Young Wives. [It would afford the editor no small gratifica- tion. if he were able to remove a difficulty, which has from time immemorial, for aught we know, perplexed and annoyed, not only “ heaps of Young Wives,” but also any quantity of old ones, who had thought that in most matters they had cut their wisdom teeth. We must, how- ever, leave this to wiser people, and hope so-me of our readers will be able to render assistance in the premises. There is an excellent article under the head of Batter, in the Farmer’s En- cyclopedia, which is too long for the Cabinet, and to which we can only refer. We can very sympathise with those who are worried in this way, hav ing many a time watched with no little chagrin, the prolonged and fruitless labors at the churn, lor six or eight, or even twelve hours; and then, after all, il I'ne buckwheat calces were not eaten drxj, they might as well have been, for the stuff’ that was produced when the butter did come, il indeed it came at all, was not wor- by which it was said butter could be made in winter as sweet, and with as little churning, as in summer. So 1 .set about trying the experi- ment, and the result exceeded my expectations. INly new practice is as follows; Before I go out to milk, I put a kettle, say one-third full ol water, and large enough to let the milk pail into it, on to the stove, where it will get boiling hot by the time 1 have come in with the milk. I then strain the milk into an- other vessel, and wash the pail, (which should always be of tin.) then pour the milk back into the pail, and set into the kettle of boiling water thy of the name of butter, and hardly that of ^ till the milk becomes scalding hot, taking care decent grcflse. Perhaps there is no better plan lor having butter in winter, and little difficulty in the churning of it, than to feed the cows well with Indian meal and green food, as carrots, tur- nips, potatoes, &c., and to keep the milk or cream at a moderate temperature. A friend in Jersey, and by the way, an excellent house-keeper, re- not to let it boil, then pour it into crocks or pans and set it away in the cellar for the cream to rise in the usual way. As little time should be occupied in this heating process as possible; hence the advantage of having the water ready hot when the milk is brought in. Cream procured in this way, will seldom re- marked to us a few weeks ago, that she kept her i quire more than twenty minutes churning, while milk and cream, during the winter, altogether in a closet in the kitchen; thus, at a constant temperature, from 55° to 65°, it readily soured, and she had no difficulty in getting her butter; and the quality of it, when she doesg-e^ it, our- selves are particularly fond of testing. This plan of keeping the milk warm, is, we believe, practised to a very considerable extent, by our large and nice dairy people on this side the Del- aware.— Ed. Far, CoMnet.'\ [The following is from the Ohio Cultivator, recently established by Mr. Bateham, formerly proprietor of the Genesee Farmer. He seems to be mightily tickled with having got two lady contributors to his columns, and well he may be, since few of his brother editors are so fortu- nate as to get one. He prefaces “ Emily’s” con- tribution with the following remarks, the spzrii of which is imputable tJ the fact that the writer IS (fortunately or unfortunately 7) n single man, though doubly blessed with female correspon- dents.— N. E. Farmer.^ '‘The Campbells are Coming F — Stand aside, gentlemen! front seats always reserved for the ladies ! We felt quite sure that we should have the assistance of the ladies in our enterprise, and, sure enough, here it comes! ’Tis true, they are naturally a little coy at first, and need some coaxing; but when they do become enlist- ed in a good cause, it is sure to go ahead. We have, therefore, no longer any fears about the success of our undertaking. The Ohio Culti- vator will not only be sustained, but eminently by the common practice, the poor dairy-maid may have to churn for hours, and then, perhaps, have to throw it away, as I did myself on two occasions, before I happened to gain this valua- ble piece of information. Respectfully, &c. Emily. P. S. — (A lady a! ways adds a postscript.) I forgot to say, that if you get a “ Buckeye” wife, and she makes butter for you in winter accord- ing to this method, you will find it but little in- ferior to that made in summer. E. Kindness to Animals* The following, which we copy from the Mas- sachusetts Ploughman, we commend to the spe- cial reading of eveiy one who has charge of beasts of burthen. The example of the owner of the runaway oxen alluded to, cannot be too generally followed. If kindness, instead of the brutal treatment usually meted out to dumb beasts by their drivers, were resorted to, we have no doubt that many of the faults and tricks to which they are subjected might be overcome. Mr. Editor — In passing through the town of S , a lew days since, I stopped at the resi- dence of a distinguished farmer of that town; it so happened during my short stay, his steers which he was working at the time, by some means, escaped him and runaway. After much running and trouble, they were overtaken and brought back, w'hich done, the good man very deliberately and good naturedly stepped into his corn barn and brought out several clever ears . , of corn and gave them to eat; at the same time successful in accomplishing the great object for ! parting them on the sides, saying, “ There Bxick vrhich it is designed. j Bright, take that&nA that, and know better We have received two communications from , than to run away from me again.” The steers female contributors, both of them of a plain, i seemed to forget their skitlishness at once, and practical character, aiming at utility ratherthan ; became tame and familiar. They indicated as amusement. The first is from a farmer’s daugh- j ixiuch as to say, “ Master, we were afraid, where- ter, and^we think vyiU be useful to many of her | we ran away ; but now, we believe thee to be our friend, and shall no more fly from thee.” There, thought I, is a lesson ol moderation sex at the present time; BUCKEYE MODE OF MAKING BUTTER. Mr. Editor — Having read in the second number of your truly valuable paper, that no one had contributed for the department which and kindheartedness worthy the regard of all those who have the care and management of dumb beasts. And it is here noted for the spe- you are so kind as to appropriate to the it se of ! cial consideration and behoof of all such as are ladies, I feel inclined to pnt in my mite, small as it is, in the hope that it will encourage others ot my sex, for I think it is a pity that they should neglect so good an opportunity for exercising their talents, and “showing their quality.” My object in writing is, to inform your rea- ders that I have derived much assistance in the performance of my duties as a farmer’s daugh- ter, from reading agricultural papers. vly father has taken the Genesee Farmer for several years, and I have found much instruction in its columps that has been of advantage to me ; one instance of this kind 1 will relate. I have for several years had the entire care of the milk department in my father’s family. I therefore read, with great interest, whatever re- lated to making burter and cheese, and I found much that was different from what I had been in ihe habit of practicing. One case of this kind was, directions for making butter in winter, ac- cording to what is called the Russian method, in the constant habit of maltreating their do- mestic animals. What a contrast this to the manner of some, who, instead of forbearance and kind dealing, upon every occasion of way- wardness in their horse or ox, fly at him, cudgel in hand, and deal “death and damnation on his defen'i'eless head like a very Turk!” How many noble animals have had their courage broken down and rendered spiritless by such brutal treatment— it is worse than bruto.l, for no brute animal will treat his fellow so unnatural- Iv 1 How many colts and steers have been thus spoiled in training to service 1 “The merciful man is merciful to his beast!” Nor are others less culpable who leave their cattle exposed to the inclemency of winter weather, without shelter, and a sufficient and proper supply of food. Man, take care of thy beast and be kind to him, else his voice may be heard in heaven testifying against thee ! Respectfully, B. F. Wilbur. 68 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. From the Mobile (Ala.) Register & Journal. Indigo. That a new system of planting must be adopt- ed in the South, is a singularly general opinion. For individuals to discover their errors, is not entirely a common occurrence ; but for a whole country to be convinced of an erroneous course, is assuredly singular, and a flattering omen or the probable correction of error. The least in- formed of our citizens appear to have picked up, within a few months, the solid reasons for a de- viation from the track that we have been in for years, and admit the superior good sense of the Northern farmers in their plan of ‘‘mixed crops ” This, with others, is certainly one of the lessons of practical wisdom, that the depresseo. state of things has taught our people, for the sheer fact is, this depression has set them to thinking. The idea of a “full crop” of cotton, grew up with the article, in our planting community, and strange as true, it never was applied to any other production of agriculture throughout our coun- try. Had the same idea got hold of the Northern and Western farmers, as regards the article of hemp, the same result would have followed, and long ere this, that plant would not have been worth raising. Unfortunately for the South, the idea which we now can view as preposterous in the extreme, has in its result destroyed for the present the possibility of labor directed to the production of the great hitherto staple of the South finding a fair remuneration, and placed the country in the awkward state of embarrassment in which we find it. One assurance, however, of a better state of things, is that unanimity of sentiment and views in the community, as regards an imme- diate change of our course and the adoption of a wiser one. A few days ago, I was forcibly struck v/ith the absurdly extravagant inconsistency of the course the country has been pursuing, by observing a domestic incident. On sitting down to dinner, certainly not a sumptuous, but simply a comfort- able one, I was astonished to see the number of States and Territories of the Union, with ditler- ent parts of the habitable globe, that appeared to be called in requisition to provide for it. I saw' before me a part of a ham from Westphalia, a middle of bacon from Ohio, a piece of Fulton Market beef, potatoes from Connecticut, with onions from Massachusetts, a pudding, the basis of which was produced in South Carolina, mus- tard from England, sweet oil from Florence, pep- per from the East Indies, sugar from the West Indies, and coffee from Java. The desert, al- though simple, brought together the North and South— apples from Vermont, and oranges from St. Augustine, etc., and last of all a Bologna sausage, made of no one knows what, but all the way from Italy, consequently, like all other for- eign preparations for the gourmand, must be superior. The production of Zerez in ihs way of liquid, and a little of France, iir the form of cogniac, settled the account I confess I was left after a heavy dinner wdth the reflection that the rationale of all this could not be laid down, and as soon as possible I quit reflecting on the subject. My last paper sugrtested to the planting inter- est the addition to their crops of Indigo. This dye-stufl, it must be recollected, we import an- nually to a large amount, and this consideration, added to the fact, that no substitute has |been Fund for it, the vast number o( fabrics it is ne- cessarily attached to, and the increase of our manufacturing establishments, most certainly offers a rational encouragement to direct our la- bor to its production. And to other considera- tions, that the labor requited for its production, embraces but a short portion of the year, is light as any other cultivation ; and admits attentiori to other valuable productions of agriculture, and last, but not least, the freight or transportation of this article is almost nominal. The last consideration to those who notice the expense and the time required in the different transportations necessary to bring the article of cotton to market, will be kept in view and duly appreciated. A large amount in value can be put into a small package, and by keeping in a dry state, this article does not deteriorate with age. From a communication made by a dyer of no small celebrity in the North, it is evident that we have a superior climate and soils for the pro- I duction of this dye-stuff, in addition to which the writer of this article had sent to him a sample of cotton fabric, the blue colors of which was given by the production mentioned in a paper hereto- fore, and which, for a transparent hue, could not be excelled. A future paper will give what may be to some new, and who may not be particularly acquainted with the mode of cultivation, the best soils and most approved mode; also, the pro- cess of preparing the coloring matter for market. Bouth Alabama. From the New England Farmer. Necessity of supplying the Soil with the Constituents of the Crops grown on it. The new light which the improved state ol science is throwing on agriculture, must be hail- ed by all thinking larmers with joy. At present this light is restricted in its radiance, but lew, comparatively, out of the ranks of the learned, feeling its beneficial influence. But the time seems to be approaching — let us bid it speed — when in the culture of the earth, science will guide practice, and good farming, the most profit- able farming, become an art which will require the skilful exercise of inlelligent mind, more than the exercise of physical power, to pursue it with the greatest success. Chemistiy, the patron-genius of agriculture, is now lending its aid as it never before lent it, to dispel the darkness which has too long envel- oped the farmer in hispursuit,and leachingbim to see, and enabling him to comprehend, ihe true processes by which his crops and animals are formed, and the necessary condhions required to make ihe one heavy and the other fat, at the least expense and with the most profit. The desirable light is being constantly diffused by scientific men, particularly in England and Scot- land, in lectures and communications through the press, and thousands seek it as eagerly as they do their own prosperity, and, indeed, their prosperity depends in an important degree up- on it. To no one, we think, are the fai mers on either side ot the Atlantic, more deeply indebted for eflorts to benefit them by imparting valuable scientific knowledge, than to Professor Johnston, of Scotland. The fLllowing abridged leport ol one of his late lectures before the Dumfries Farmers' Club, on the necessity of returning to the soil the constituents of the crops taken off, I think will interest many of your readers: “ The different substances of which plants are composed, must exist in the soil on which they grow ; according to the nature of the plant to be reared, so ought the land to be manured. Thus, while wheat grain contained only two per cent, ot ashes, hay contained ten per cent. Hence, the wheat required a much larger amount of' combustible aliment than hay. Jt was true that the whole ol the combustible matter was not ob- tained directly from the soil, as a large portion was derived from the air ; but from five to ten per cent, of the straw ot wheat was obtained from the soil: hence the provision made in 'eases, that no straw should be carried off the land. Different kinds of hay carry off differ- ent quantities of inorganic matter from the so’fl, and consequently have different effects upon the land. “ Every plant grown, requires, in accordance with the nature and composition of the soil, the proportion of the ingredients in its ashes, ll no alteration of crop is made, nature will become exhausted in some of her resources, and the plant for want of requisite nourishment from the soil, must die. We have facts to prove that nature will not forever grow the same plant on the same soil. The Black Forest consisted first of oak, then of pine, and now it is again cover- ed with broad-leaved trees ; and as with .trees, so with crops; and as on a large, so on a small scale. “Different modes of husbandry have been adopted. Instead ol oats being grown fifteen or twenty years on the same soil, the rotation of three white crops and six years’cra.ss was adopt- ed: this also, has become antiquated, and now the preferable alternation ot white and green crop is adopted. Alternating crops, and adding such manures as have been carried off by pre- ceding crops, is the only profitable mode of cul- tivation, while nature will also assist bv the going on ot certain circumstances, such as the decomposition of minerals, &c. “ A soil containing just sufficient lime fora luxuriant crop of rye-grass, would be far defi* cientforeithercloverorluccrne. The soilmust contain in abundance what your crop specially requires, and consequently the necessity of selecting th-e manure to suit the crop wanted. “ The ground becomes exhausted in many ways. By cropping too long with either one kind or different kinds of grain and straw, it be- comes exhausted ol some of its soluble matter by the action of the rains, just in proportion to the wetness of the soil. By the application of proper manures, the waste n ay .be replaced. Feeding on the ground will replace a portion of the waste of solid matter, by the dung voided by the animals; but a great portion oi \.h^ solubhi lost, both by being, to a small extent, irrecover- able, and because of the direct waste by care- lessness or ignorance. Those soluble or saline substances, are principally contained in the urine of cattle, and just in proportion as it is lost, so is the direct waste, (iuano is not a more valu- able manure than the urine of cattle. By build- ing suitable tanks, the whole of the barn-yard saline might be preserved, and 900 lbs. of good solid matter, equal to the best Peruvian Guano, would be the annual produce of one cow. We have frequently been astonished at the results of certain saline substances when scattered over unhealthy plants, and by the first shower washed into the soil and immediately consumed by the plant as its proper and necessary food; and just in proportion to the ease with which it gets the substances upon which it is supported, and of which it is composed, will it vegetate and floui’ish. “ To resume : Suppose any of the substances of which a plant is composed, to be alread)'^ in the ground in sufficient proportion, then any ad- dition cannot do good. Suppose soda to be in sufficient quantity for hay, any addition would be unprofitab'e for a rye-grass crop, while it would be of immense benefit to clover or lucerne. And again, some soils contain it in sufficient quantity for every variety ol crop, consequently any addition would be unprofitable. Hence the reason of so many conflicting opinions respect- ing the utility of various manures. One tries gypsum, in whose soil it is deficient, and finds it an invaluable manure; another applies it to his soil, which is already well supplied with it, and pronounces it worthless. “ Alilk contains so much bony earth, that in 75 years, a cow pa^tured on an acre of land, will carry off a ton of bones. Hence, (the Profes- sor ?aid,) some lands used tor dairy purposes in Che.shire, had, in the course of years, deteriora- ted to such a degree that the}'' were not worth more than from 5s, to 10s. per acre, just because the cows pastured on them had carried away all the bone out of the soil. Bone-dust was at length applied as a top dressing, and the results were so astonishing, that the land increased 700 per cent, in value, and the rector’s tithes were increased five-fold. Any or all other manure.s, had the soil wanted bone, wmuld have proved in- effectual. The bones added just what had gra- dually been taken off in the lapse of years, in consequence of the peculiar husbandry of the district.” Fruit in the Family. — Is it not strange, in a country so capable of producing fruits ot almost every kind in abundance, that so few have ap- ples or any other fruit for the winter nights ? Jt is a fact, perhaps not known to all, that fruit constitutes the best desert after dinner, and it is most wholesome for every one. Too oft;-n fai- raers think, they will not live long enough to enjoy the fruit if thev were to plant orchards ; but they should recollect peaches will hear in two or three years fiom the bud. apples in three or four, and pears in a little longer time; and even if the older people should not live to enjo}’- all their labor, they should do something for posterity. Let the aged give a good example to THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 69 the young, and the next generation will do bet- ter than the present. But little ground is neces- sary for an orchard, and nothing pays so well lor the labor and expenses. Moreover, the farmer who regards appearances, should be ashamed of a place nalred, and free from fruit trees. Noth- ing, indeed, is so ornamental as luxuriant Iruii trees leaded with their annual treasures. From the Teanessee Agriculturist. Wool. We have the satisfaction of knowingthat our eflorts to draw the attention of the farming com- munity of our own immediate region to the im- portant subject of wool growing, is being real- ized, and that they are awaking to a sense of the vast resources that are presenting themselves through sheep raising, and also of the increas- ing value of the mountain lands in this State adapted to this purpose. A few facts connected with the history of oth- er countries, when brought before the notice of the farmers of Tennessee, and indeed of the whole of the Southwestern States, if consid- ered with care, will, we think, induce many of them to revive their system of sheep husbandry, and extend them to their utmost limits. The growth of wool has never been underta- ken by any country or by any people, without returning to that people all the blessings to be enjoyed on this earth, that peace and plenty could bestow. The political situation of Spain may for a time, and no doubt will, operate against that prosperitv which she has so long enjoyed through her wool trade; and it is pro- bable that her flocks may comparatively degen- erate, through the anarchy and confusion that reigns through her once fair provinces. In this respect, she stands a warning to every true pa- triot, ttiough it is satisfactory to know that even this confusion had not taken place until the civi- lized portion of the globe have availed them- selves of the treasures once possessed by Spain alone, but now happily spiead to nearly every corner of the earth. One reference that we will make to exempli- fy the results of a judicious system of sheep husbandry, is to that of Germany, standing as she does before the world, as the greatest export- ing wool country known. It is to be borne in mind, that previous to the year 1765, Saxony was not a sheep raising country, and that it was entirely owing to the enlightened policy of her then ruler, who enforced his views, especially amongst his own tenantry, making it a part of his agreement with those to whom he rented, that they should keep a certain number of sheep. And let us now see her condition. It appears from the parliamentary documents, that the wool imported Irom Germany into England, in the year 1841, amounted to 20,953,775 lbs., being more than a third ol all the foreign wool, inclu- ding all the colonies, imported into that kingdom in the course ol that year. Let us also look at the wool producing colo- nies of England. That of New South Wales, established in 1787, under ail the disadvantages of her convict and criminal population. In the year 1841, (a period ol 54 years from her first settlement.) she imported into England 7,993,060 lbs. of wool ; while her more infant establish- ment of Van Dieman’s Land, sent into the mother countrv 3,507,531 lbs.— and it is worthy to remark, that the first ship landed in that island did not take place till 1807. The total amount of wool imported into England during the year 1841, was 56,170,974 lbs., (which is presumed to be equal to the amount grown in that country) — making a total of 112,341,948 lbs. It also ap- pears [hat there was, at the close of the year, 6,912,060 lbs. ol foreign wool in bond, and, pre- suming there was about the same amount of home grown wool unmanufactured, the amount usQd in the manufacturing establishments of England for 1841, would be as near as possible 100,000,000 lbs. VVe have not at hand any report of the amount of wool grown in the United States in 1841, though we have of that of her imports, which, it appears, was 11,409,764 lbs. la 1839, the wool grown in this country was 34,802,114 lbs.; and the probability is, that the amount was not much increased in 1841, which, if we take as a data to work upon, we have a total of 47,211,878 lbs., being nearly one half the amount manufac- tured by England that year. Our imports of manufactured woolen goods, from England alone, in that year, amounted to .£1,521,880, or $1,366,353— so says the parlia- mentary report. What amount we imported from Germany, France, &c. we are at present uninformed of. That France is manufacturing extensivel}'-, and that she is short of the raw material, we are assured, from the fact of her having agents through the whole Western and Southwestern States, engaged in the purchase of every quality of wool; and, taking all these circumstances into consideration, we have this state of things presented before us : First, that as a pastoral people withal, and beyond the necessary resources under our con- trol, we do not grow sufficient wool for our own use, but import upwards of $10,000,000 worth of manufactured woolen goods yearly to meet our demand for that article, besides a large pro- portion of the unmanufactured material. That, as a commercial people, upon which we pride ourselves, wm are too careless to take advantage of and meet the wishes of a good customer lor an article which we can raise in the greatest abundance, and at a certainly larger amount of profit than any people. Will not our farmers reflect on these things? Once again, w'ith a view to drawing their attention to the subject, we inform them that every farmer in the State can have cash for every ounce of wool he can raise, at more than remunerating prices; that one house in Nashville alone, is authorized to purchase 1,000,000 lbs. — indeed, an unlimited amount for French exportation ; that home con- sumption must necessarily increase ; that, with ordinary attention, the quality and staple of the wool itself will be so improved as to produce a greater return; that our particular section of country is better adapted to sheep raising than any other in America ; that our climate is such that we can do all Spain or Australia can ac- complish; that, indeed, nothing is wanting but the judicious action of the farmers of Tennes- see in the improvement of their breed of sheep, and an expansion of their flocks, to insure them- selves and the State at large a position unequal- led in the annals of agricultural history, c. f. From the American Fanner. Washington’s Opinion ot Agricultural Life It is refreshing to us, and we hope it is to eve- ry lover of freedom, to read anything from the pen of Washington — and still the more refresh- ing, when it may happen to be upon the subject of Agriculture. In the belief then, that the fol- lowing opinion of the farmer’s life, from the Father of his country, may serve to reconcile every tiller of the soil to his lot, we give it in- sertion. But why need we say, that it may serve to reconcile the tillers of the soil to their lot? Surely there is no man owning a farm who is discontented with his position; tor, of a truth, if there be one condition more than anoth- er, which any man might desire without incur- ring the sin of covetousness, it is to be the owner of a good farm, well stocked, to be out ol debt, to have a good wife, and a family of children around him. There are other situations where a man may possibly make more money. The merchant, for instance, may realise more profit in a month, than a farmer would in half a life time. But then, where one merchant £^ie5 ihcA, there are ninety-nine who become bankrupt — and then, their gains, if gains they make, are realized amidst the cares, anxieties and tortures of the mind; for their’s is a life of hazard and uncertainty, dependent upon so many contin- gencies for success, as, in numerous instances, to make even the most brilliant success, a dear price for the wear and tear of mind and the lace- ration of feelings. While the owner of a fertile farm, unless avarice be his besetting sin, has everything around him to gratify all the aspira- tions of his heart, sweeten the pathway of life, and make him happy. Come what may — drought or rain — lu.xuriant crops or short ones — high prices, or low ones— if he be prudent and frugal, the bosom of the earth, in its generous yieidiogs, will always afford to him and his, both food and raiment, and a little to spare, either to be laid by for a rainy day, or dispensed to his fellow man, in “binding up the wounded heart, or pillowing the aching head;” and what more, pray let us ask, does man want w'hile he may be permitted to remain on earth 1 He that wants more is not imbued with that becoming sense of gratitude which is due to the author of his being. Riches, we are aware, have their attractions, and often weave around the brow of the undeserving chaplets wiiich but ill become it. We are aware also, that although an emi- nent philosopher hath said that “knowledge is power,” it would have been much nearer the truth, had he said, ihutwealtk is power — but with this belief firmly impressed upon our mind, by the daily evidences of tame submission to the povverof money by which we are surrounded — still, we wou'd not exchange that glorious state of independence which belongs to the thrifty owner of a homestead of two or three hundred acres of good land, for any other condition. Although such an one may amass wealth slowly and moderately — though he may realise but a competency, still that wealth, or that competen- cy, is earned by the most pleasurable, healthful and virtuous of all human pursuits. But as we find ourself running riot under the influence of enthusiasm, we must cry halt, and introduce the opinion which Washington en- tertained of the calling of an Agriculturist. In one of his letters to Arthur Ymmg, Gen. Washington used the following language : “The more I am acquainted with agricultu- ral affairs, the better 1 am pleased with them; insomuch, that I can no where find so great sa- tisfaction as in their innocent and useful pur- suits. In indulging these feelings, I am led to reflect how much more delightful to an unde- bauched mind, is the task of making improve- ments on the earth, than all the vain glory which can be acquired from ravaging it by the most uninterrupted career of conquest.” Nutritive Gualities of Tea. — M. Peligot states that tea contains essential principles of nutrition far exceeding in importance its stimu- lating properties; and shows that, as a stimu- lant, tea is in every respect the most desirable object of habitual use. One of his experiments upon the nutritive qualities of tea, as compared with those of soup, was by no means in favor of the latter. The most remarkable products of tea are; 1st, the tannin or astringent property; 2d, an essential oil to which it owes its aroma, and which has a great influence on its price in commerce; and 3d, a substance rich in azote, and crystalizable, called theine, which is also met in coffee, and is frequently called cafeine. Independently of these three substances, there are eleven others of less importance, which enter more or less into the composiMons of tea of all the kinds imported into Europe. What was more essential, as regards the chemical and hy- gienic character of the plant, was to ascertain the exact proportion of the azoted (nitrogenized) principle it contains. M. Peligot began by de- termining the total amount ol azote in tea, and finished by finding that it was from 20 to 30 per cent, greater than in any other kind of vegetable. M. Peligot states that by reason of this quantity ot azote, and the existence of cafeine in the tea leaf, it is a true aliment. Fruit. — The demand in England for Ameri- can fruit is likely to become a matter ol consid- erable importance. A large quantity of apples was sent there last season and paid well. Many orchards of five, ten and twenty thousand trees have lately been planted in the Hudson River Counties, with a view of growing apples for export to foreign countries. We see no reason why peaches from New Jersey, and other At- lantic regions where they will grow, cannot be sent to England by steamers, and arrive in good condition. — Newark Advertiser, 70 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. Manures. We extract the lollowing excellent remarks from an article appearing in the South Carolina Temperance Adtmcate: In the application ol manure we should have an eye to its permanent benefits. We should guard against its waste : and that method is to be preferred which best secures us against this. There is a popular opinion that manure sinks; that although it may be wasted, to a certain ex- tent, by evaporation, the principal waste is occa- sioned by its actually descending into the earth, by the action of rains, until it gets beyond the region occupied by the roots of the crops to be cultivated, and ceases to do them any good. If this were so, to any practical extent, it would be a very good thing: for it would deepen the soil ; and we should have nothing to do but to plow deep, and turn up the manure again before it sinks too far; when it would have its former effect upon the crop, until it should sink a second time. And this operation might be again repeated, with the like beneficial results. It would follow, too, that the pervious soil would ;e the most valuable for manuring; because it ;ould sooner and more easily be made deep. But is the popular opinion true, that manure ’s wasted by sinking? I shall proceed, in the arst place, to prove that it is not; and then, to show the wrong practices that have flowed from it, and will continue to flow from it, so long as it holds possession of the popular mind. That manure does not sink beyond a proper depth, may be easily ascertained by very sim ple experiments and by a very little reflection. Let any one who doubts, put a spigot in a common cider barrel, knock out the head of it, and fill it with clean sand, nearly to the top. Then let him pour upon the sand the most im- pure liquid manure he can find. He will be able to "draw from the spigot nearly pure water. The impurities, which constitute the manure, will have been detained by the sand, by filtra- tion, within a short distance of the top of the barrel. It is upon this principle that farmers are in the habit of clarifying their cider. It is also a well known method among grocers for freeing their liquors of objectionable matter; and every confectioner habitually employs it in his busi- ness. If we look to the operations of nature, we shall recognise it there. If the impurities, on or near the surface of the earth, were carried down by rains, we should never be able to get a palatable drink of water. But the beneficent Parent of all good, has, in the beautiful arrange- ments of an all-wise Providence, so ordered it, that the rain which descends upon the surface «f the earth, shall be drained of all its own im- purities, and of those it encounters near the sur- face, by passing through the superior strata ; and h gushes out, pure and transparent, in refresh- ing springs and wells. I take it for granted, that whoever bestows a Jittle reflection upon these things will be con- vinced, that the opinion that manure sinks be- neath the reach of the roots of cultivated plants, is entirely erroneous. It is an indubitable fact, however, that after a time, manure does cease to produce any sensi- ble effects? I think it occurs by evaporation. Perhaps a lew simple experiments will estab- lish this. If you enclose a portion of manure in a box, and place it where it shall not be exposed to the action of light and heat, it will retain its fertil- izing qualities, for almost any assignable time ; and will even acquire, from the atmos- phere, (if accessible to it,) an addition to them. But, if you place it on a board or stone, or in a tin box, open at the top, but enclosed at the sides, (a method which I select, as rendering it certain that no part can sink, though it may es- cape at the top,) and then expose it to the rain and sun, or to the sun alone, it will, in a very ?horf time, become entirely inert, and its escape A’ill be rapid in proportion to the intensity of the heat to which it is subjected. There are other proofs. Every body has ob- served the rapid deterioration of land, exposed to the sun, without the benefit of trees, or of a crop, to shade it. Having thus learned that manure is not wast- ed by but by this may be the proper place to inquire the reason of the well known fact, that, when covered at the same depth, it is wasted sooner in sandy than in clay land. This depends upon the superior heat of the one over the other ; which, of course, causes a more rapid evaporation. And this, again, may be ascertained by a simple experiment. If, at any given hour of a summer day, you insert a thermometer in two contiguous soils, one abounding in sand and the other in clay, or insert it in two boxes, the one filled \vith sand, the other with clay, you will find the tempera- ture of the former to be several degrees higher than that of the other. The necessary inference from this I havm already stated. We have now seen the popular notion of manure sinking, is an error. That on the con- trary, it evaporates. We have seen that this arises from heat; and that this abounds more in sand than in clay. The universal practice, which has followed that popular erroneous opinion, has been to de- posit manure shallow in the sand, from an ap- prehension that it might sink, and, of course, would sink more rapidly in that kind of soil, which is more pervious than in clay, whish is less so. And so long as this abstract notion that manure sinks, prevails, so long will this prac- tice prevail, as the necessary consequence of it. I have shown that manure does not sink, but evaporates: and evaporates more rapidly from sand than from clay. What is the necessary inference ? Is it not that the practice of making a shallower deposit in sand than in clay, should be EXACTLY REVERSED? The danger of evapora- tion being greater in the former than in the lat- ter, the deposit should be deeper to avoid it. 1 might extend this paper by other practical remarks and inferences; as, for instance: that the evaporation of manures being established, it is of importance in all cases where other cir- cumstances will permit, to deposit them deeply, not only with a view to the permanent improve- ment of the soil, but to prevent the unhealthy contamination of the air by the deleterious gases escaping, by evaporation, from the fertilizing matter. Liebig’s work, and that beautiful little treatise, Popular Vegetable Physiology might have been consulted with advantage by all, but I would particularly recommend the latter as containing the science of the former in a more attractive form, and in a style level with the plainest understanding. Coatswood. MAKING COMPOST. Capt. Abel Moore’s Statement to the Committee of the Sliddlesex (Mass.) Society. The importance of manure to the farmer is so apparent, that the manner of increasing it, in quantity and quality, without reducing the value of the same, becomes a matter of interest to all who are engaged in agriculture; and it is a well established fact, that manure can be more profitably used as a compost, than in any other way. My attention was particularly drawn to the subject of making compost manure, about five years since, for at that time I could not pur- chase stable manure, without paying more for it, than the real benefit derived from its use. About that time, I built a barn 80 feet long, by 40 feet wide, with a cellar under the whole of it, and I then began making compost in a way that proved more pirofitable than I had previously found. 1 began by fixing troughs in ihe cellar, under the holes were I put down the manure, with hogsheads placed under the same to receive the urine from the cattle, and when full, I placed a bed of loam and peat mud and emptied the urine on to it, and set them again. I have alwa3’s kept hogs in my barn cellar, and, for the last three years, have kept two yoke of oxen, seven cows, one bull, and two horses, through the year. I tie up the cattle in the barn every night to save the manure ; and in addi- tion to the above, I have usually wintered from twenty to twenty-five head of young and fat cattle, and oxen. For the last two years, I have adopted a new method, which I think is better than any other that 1 have tried. I always kept at hand a plen- ty of good loam and peat mud, both in my barn- cellar and barn yard. I have windows opening from the cellar into the yard, through which I put down most of the loam and mud, and place it under the holes where the manure is put down, and after it has remained there about one week, I spread it over the hog-styes in the cellar, which are 80 feet long by 24 feet wide; but be- fore spreading the loam or mud, I sow corn on it, which will cause the hogs to root and turn the whole over. So valuable do I consider urine for compost manure, that I have barrels placed in my sheds to receive the urine from the house, which are emptied on to the manure heaps when full ; and also, I have plank troughs made on runners, placed under two privies, and when they are partly full, I hitch on a yoke of oxen and draw them to the barn cellar, and bury the contents in the loam and mud. At intervals ol a few weeks, I mix in lime, salt and plaster, at the rate of about one bushel each of lime and salt and a bushel of plaster to a cord of the compost. Lime aids the fermen- tation, and the salt and plaster, I believe, have beneficial effects on most of my lands. 1 always fork over my manure very light be- fore using it, and cast it out of the cellar and yard twice a year. There can be no better economy in the making of compost manure, than by adopting a course of using the urine of cattle to the best advan- tage. Filling up the hog pens with loam and mud at about the same time, and allowing it to remain until it is w’anted for use, does not, in my opinion, answer so good a purpose as putting the loam, &c. in as fast as it becomes saturated with urine. In the one way, your compost is well mixed with the droppings and urine of the cattle, and in the other the droppings are all on lop before it is forked over, and but partially saturated with the urine. The urine of cattle, I think, possesses as strong and enriching qualities, when properly applied to loam or mud, as their droppings. Peat mud can be easily rotted and fit for mak- ing compost, by digging the same in the sum- mer or fall of the year, throwing it into moderate sized heaps and allowing it to freeze and thaw during the wdnter. Very truly yours, &c. Abel Moore. From the New York Farmer. The dung of horses, sheep, and of cattle gen- erally, act as fertilizers only in proportion as they are combined with certain soils. On sandy, calcareous soil, they are very profitable — such ^ soils being deprived of the silicate of potash, and of the phosphate; while on a dry soil, rich in potash, or on a soil formed of the ruins of I granite, of porphyry, or clingstone, these nra- i nures are of little value. On the contrary, pou- i drette is an excellent fertilizer of such soils. The efficacy of urine as a manure is well known in Flanders. In China, the people are prohibited by law from throwing that and the excrement away. China is the country of ex- periment; ages have given to the people discov- eries of all sorts, w’hich Europe achieved, but could not imitate; for the Chinese books give no scientific accounts; they give mere receipts for their operations. The last halt century has, however, given us not only the knowledge which enables us to equal them in many arts, but to surpass them ; and this advance among us is due to the judicious application of chemistrv. But how far in the rear is our agriculture still, when compared with the Chinese. Thev are admirable gardeners; they know how to give each plant its prcrper education ; to prepare for it its appropriate soil. Among them agiiculture has attained the highest degree of perfection. In that country, which differs from ours in natu- ral fertility of soil, they attach verj’ little impor- THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 71 tance to the dung of animals. Among us, we have written huge volumes, but made few ex- periments. In China, they never manure their grain crops, except with human excrement — while we scatter over our land the dung of ani- mals, full of all manner of weeds, the seeds of which are undigested by the animals, .and which spring up with great power among our useful plants. VVe need no-t be astonished, then, that in spite of all our efforts, the noxious weeds cannot be extirpated from our fields. A cele- brated botanist (Ingenhouse) who visited China with the Dutch embassy, states that it was im- possible to find in a Chinese field of grain, one single weed. In agriculture, the grand maxim is to give bach to the soil in full measure (no matter in what form) all that is taken from Itby the crop; and to regulate that, by the wants of each par- ticular plant. The time will soon come, when we shall no longer manure our lands with the solid manures, but with solutions exactly suited to the crop desired. Of dry horse dung, upwards of 70 per cent, is mere water. The dung of a horse well ted with chopped straw, oats and hay, 1 found to contain, when dry, only ten per cent, of the solid parts of those substances. Therefore, in carrying upon your farm two thousand pounds of horse dung, you carry on to it fifteen hundred pounds of water, about four hundred pounds of vegeta- ble matter, and only about one hundred pounds of the salts necessary for another crop of hay, straw and oats, which your horses have eaten. These salts are essentially composed of phos- phates of litne and of magnesia, and silicate of potash ; the latter salt should predominate in the soil, while the phosphates abound in the grain. [ Translaled from the Revue Scieriti/ique et Indus- trielle, by H. AIgigs. From the Albany Cultivator, S.XVING MANURES. The effluvium or gas, arising from decompos- ing animal or vegetable substances, though ex- ceedingly disagreeable to our olfactory senses, is the congenial food of growing plants. Arthur Youngsaid, many years ago, ‘-he who is within the scent of a dung hill, smells that of w'hich his crops would have eaten if he would have permitted it.” Sir Humphrey Davy de- monstrated this. He placed a quantity of fer- menting manure in a retort, and ascertained that it gave off a liquid containing a large pro- portion of salts of ammonia. Seeing this result, he introduced the beak of another reto.n filled with similar dung, under the roots of some grass in the garden, an j “in less than a fortnight, a verv distinct effect was produced on the grass, upon the spot exposed to the influence of the matter disengaged in fermentation ; it grew with much more luxuriance than the grass in any other part of the garden.” It is hence obvious that by permitting the escape of the gaa evolved during fermentation, the valuable portionsofthe manure are dissipated in the atmosphere. “ The loss o\ gaseous manure f says Mr. Han- nam in his excellent essay on the Economy of Waste Manures, “ arises irom the escape of the carbonic acid and the ammonia, of the vegeta- ble and animal matters in the manure heap, du- ring the process of fermentation and putrefac- tion; both of which gases are essential in the nutrition of vegetables. * * * When this evolution of ammonia and carbonic acid takes place under the root of a plant, it is wfflat w'e want; but when it takes place, as is generally the case, months before the compost is used, the manure is robbed of its most valuable constitu- ents.” “ It is worthy of remark,” continues Mr. Han- nam, “ that the richer manure is in nitrogen, the more serious the loss is ; as the more nitrogen a substance contains the more prone it is to fer- ment and throw off ammonia.” The observa- tion of every farmer will corroborate this; for all have noticed that the richer the manure the stronger the cdor arising from it. The most effectual means, probably, qf pre- venting this waste of the gaseous portion of ma- nures, would be to apply them to the soil before fermentation takes place, in this case the gas- es would be taken up by the growing crop. — Stable or barn manure, is sometimes deposited in cellars, where, from the low temperature, and seclusion from the air, it undergoes little or no change. Thus kept, it retains its original strength, and is much morepowerJul and endur- ing in its effects, than that which has undergone decomposition in the open air. But there is of- ten so large a portion of undecayed vegetable fibre, (litter, &c.) in manures, they cannot con- veniently be applied in a green state. Besides, for some crops, the action of green manures is not quick enough; and for other crops, as wheat and other small grains, they tend to promote too great a growth of straw, and increase the liabil- ity to rust. It becomes, then, necessary under certain cir- cumstances that manures should pass through a state of fermentation before they are applied to the soil, and the question is, how can this object be accomplished without loss? Reason teaches, and experience proves, that substances must be mixed with manure, which will absorb the g-aseous portions as they are generated. Earth is a good absorbent. If a dead animal be enveloped in the earth before putiefaction commences, and allowed to remain so until the carcass is decomposed, the earth will have absorbed the nauseous fumes occa- sioned by the decomposing animal matter, and will be found rich iathose principles which con- stitute the food and growth of vegetables. This example teaches that mixing soil with manure or covering the manure heap with a layer of soil while undergoing fermentation, will pre- serve much of its value which would be other- wise lost. There are other substances which are preferable to common soil — such as char- coal, (which will absorb ninety times its own bulk of ammoniacal gas, and thirty-five times its volume of carbonic acid gas,) and peat or swamp muck. The latter in many parts ol the country, can be had in the greatest abundance, and it is, beyond doubt, one of the best means of augmenting the tanner’s stock of valuable manures. In its composition and absorbing power, it much resembles charcoal — being principally the carbonaceous matter of decom- posed vegetables. Every farmer who can con- veniently obtain peat or muck, would do well to place a layer of it under all his manure heaps — to mix it with barn or stable manure in forming composts, covering the piles with a coating of it to prevent the waste ol the gases, and throwing it liberally into the stalls of horses and cattle, to absorb the urine. Results will show that the la- bor thus bestowed in the use of swamp muck, will be rewarded a hundred fold. Other substances are used as fixers of ammo- nia, &c., which act somewhat differently from those above mentioned — such as gypsum, and various kinds of acids. The theory of their action is, the ammonia, being an alkaline gas, will by combination with any acid, form a neu- tral salt. Gypsum is a combination of lime and sulphuric acid. When this is applied to fer- menting manure, the sulphuric acid of the gyp- sum leaves the lime and unites with the ammo- nia, the acid having a stronger affinity for the ammonia, than for the lime with which it was combined. Mr. Hannam in the essay before referred to recommends that the manure heap be covered v.'ith peat or some absorbent, and “this coating kept well saturated with sulphuric acid and water, say a weak mixture of ten gal- lons of wa er to one of acid.” Mr. Hannam adds, that any other acid which may be obtained at a cheaper rate, w'ill act as well, as the ammo- nia will combine w'ith any acid. Either the ap- plication of gypsum, or the acid solutions men- tioned, v/ill soon affect such a fixture or combi- nation, that little or no smell can be perceived. In regard to the use of salt, which has been by some recommended as a fixer of ammonia, Mr. Hannam says — “My own observation teaches me to prefer acid to any salt, as it is equally cheap, more easily used, and is, there- fore, likely to be more efficacious.” To Prevent Rust in Wheats From the Farmer’s Register. “As far as my observation extends, lime is an efiectual preventive of the rust. Putrescent manures and clover lays, on the contrary, almost always induce it if the season be at all unfavor- able at the critical period of ripening. The reason I take to be this : putrescent matter, by furnishing more food than the plant can elabo- rate, produces a state of plethora, which rcoults in the extravasation of the sap at the season of greatest vigor. This indeed 1 understand to be The theory. The tendency of lime is to check this redundancy of giowth, by providing in some way the specific lood ol the plant. Wheth- er this be done by enabling it to decompose car- bonic acid with greater activity, or by furnish- ing it with silicate ol lime, or by contributing to the development and formation of the grain, rather than to an exuberant vegetation, cannot perhaps be determined. When I was in the great wheat growing district of w’estern New York, some years ago, I saw fields of wheat that 1 was told would yield twenty-five or thirty bushels to the acre, which I could not have sup- posed, from any previous observation, would have produced more than ten. The soils of that region, being of a diluvial formation, are so rich in calcareous matter, from the former attrition ol the lime rocks scattered overthe country, that they Irequently effervesce with acids. The stem had so little blade that itappearedalmostnaked. Plaster of Paris, which has been recommended as a protection against the rust, though it be lime in another form, does not contribute much to the formation of grain. Its tendency is emi- nently to increase the bulk of vegetable growth, and therefore, when it acts on wheat, to induce rust and mildew. To guard against the rust then, such application to the soil appears neces- sary as would afford specific nourishment to the seed. In every analysis of wheat there is found a portion of lime. There are also some manures that furnish the specific ingredients, but those only, I believe, which are concentrated in their energy. I ha ve read nothing lately which sheds more light on the distinction 1 have attempted to draw, between manuring for the grain and man- uring for the straw, than the detail of some ex- periments with guano, by J. E. Teschemacher, of Boston, and contained in his address to the Horticultural Society. Sonis plants treated with guano, the balsam for instance, produced very inferior flowers; but not a flower missed bearingits seed vessel, and every seed vessel was filled with perfect seeds; while other plants of the same species and growing under the same circumstances, with the exception of the guano, had only a portion of the seeds perfect in each pod, though the flowers were very fine. “ There is a neighborhood in Maryland which I occasionally visit, the inhabitants whereof form a little community ol intelligent and in- dustrious farmers, who mostly belong to the same society of which lama member, namely that of the Friends or Gluakero, They do their own work ; and when one works with his own hand.®, he is more likely to make both ends meet. They find it to their interest to haul lime from six to ten miles to apply to a soil by no means naturally fertile. The crops of wheat on their limed lands are invariably good, and but little affected by rust. “ A few years ago, a friend of mine, in an ad- joining county, planted an acre or two of ground in pumpkins. The vines were so much infest- ed with bugs that he sprinkled caustic lime over the leaves for the purpose of destroying them. In the fall the lot was seeded to wheat, and at the ensuing harvest the locality of every hill was conspicuously visible. In each spot where the lime had been applied, the straw was bright and of a golden color, without the least appearance of rust, while in every other part the wheat was completely ruined. If it is not too late in the season, I would suggest the trial of a small piece of ground with lime or ashes, if it was no more than a few yards square. Ashes would be as beneficial as lime, for they afford potash. 72 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. Sljc 0outliern €ulti«ator. AUGUSTA, GA. THURSDAY, MAY 1, 1845. Correspondents. It would not be a ver}" difficult task to make the Cultivator a scientific paper, filling it with the speculations of philosophy, and extracts from Chaptal, Davy, Liebig, Johnston, Boussingault, and others. But this is not what the country wants ju.st now. A paper so made up would not find many readers, simply because what would be offered to be read, would be too far remo- ved from the every day business of the planter. What we want now, is a plain account of the experiments of men of plain common sense. There are now but few persons engaged in till- ing the soil who do not believe that old processes may be varied with certain benefit to the crop and profit to its owner : and thus believing, they are very likely to make experiments of some sort or other, and note the results. When they meet their neighbors on public occasions, the.se experiments and their results are the subject of conversation, unless party politics should hap- pen to exclude every thing else. It would not be much trouble, of a long winter night, or a rainy day, to write out an account of these ex- periments for publication in the Cultivator. Now, this is just what we want; that our plan- ters shall enlarge the sphere of their conversa- tion, and besides talking with their immediate neighbors, shall talk through the pages of the Cultivator with men engaged in the same pur- suit, one hundred miles distant; that the plan- ter on the Savannah River shall talk and com- pare notes with the planter on the Chattahoochee, and he of the mountains with him of the sea coast, without leaving their own firesides. But, you say you can’t write. You can talk, though ; and all you have to do is to banish the idea so prevalent, that when you take pen in hand you must get on stilts, and go hunting big words in the Dictionary, wherewith to construct high sounding sentences: thus trying to write in a style and manner altogether diflferent from that you use when talking to your neighbor. Banish this notion altogether; take your pen, and put down on paper, just what you would say to your neighbor— Just as you would say it when speak- ing of your experiments, and you will then suc- ceed to a certainty. If there should be some errors in spelling and grammar, never mind that — we will take care to have every thing right in that respect. When the country shall have become deeply interested in the results of experiments thus de- tailed, then will be the time to bring forward the .science of the matter; then men will begin to be anxious to know the plain why and because of these results. Then we may venture to in- troduce a larger portion of philosophy into the pages of the Cultivator. But, for the present, tor the great mass of our readers, we w’ant just such articles as our paper of to-day contains, over the signatures of our correspondents ; these we can saiely recommend asspecimensof what planters should write about, and of the w'ay in which it should be %^ritlen. W hen we shall he able, with the Albany Cul. tivator, to boast of having three hundred corres- pondents, most of them practical, working plan- ters, and shall have such a subscription list as will warrant our incurring the expense neces- sary to make the Cultiv'ator, in other respects, what we wish it to be, we shall feel that we have not lived altogether in vain. Silk. We have received the specimens of domestic silk referred to in the letter of our correspondent, Mr. Cassidey, in another column. They are deposited in the store of Messrs. Newton & Lucas, Athens, for the inspection of those per- sons who take an interest in such matters. All who have seen them, pronounce them to be very beautiful. We have on hand, and shall insert soon, per- haps in our next number, “ A brief History of the Silk Culture in Georgia,” by the Rev. Wm. B. Stevens, of the University of Georgia. It is a very interesting account of the efforts of the Trustees to establish that culture in Georgia; and having the advantage of being compiled from the records of the Colony, every statement in it may be received with implicit confidence in its accuracy. The Agricultural Press. Since our last publication, we have received the first number of the “Arkansas Farmer,” published, monthly, away over yonder at Little Rock, by J. Gish, and edited by an association of practical planters. It is a very creditable publication, indeed, to all the parties connected with the getting of it up ; and if the planters of that region will only read it carefully, they can- not fail to be very largely benefitted by it. Then there is the “ Plow Boy,” a brisk, live- ly, good humored little fellow that “comes whistling o’er the lea” from Cincinnati. He proposes to give you a lecture, monthly, on all that appertains to the life, occupation, and well- being of a farmer, and asks you only twenty- five cents a year lor it. And from Cleveland, Ohio, we have the first number of “The Western Reserve Magazine of Agriculture and Horticulture,” a very neat and well filled octavo of 24 pages, monthly, and pictures to boot, at one dollar a year, by F. R. Elliott. The Albany Cultivator acknowledges the re- ceipt of thirteen thousand subscribers from 1st January to 1st April — just one thousand a week, all paying too in advance. This is creditable to Northern farmers, and shows clearly that they perfectly understand the secret of keeping the people of other States who don’t read tributary to them, When will Southern planters act w'ith so close a regard to their own interest, as to extend the like amount of patronage on the Southern Cultivator 1 More Rasping. The two pictures in the last number of the Cultivator, of Southern planters and their eco- nomy, so admirably drawn, resembled the origi- nals so exactly, that we are sure our readers would like to have more of them. According- ly, we have selected another, not a whit inferior in point cf accuracy, to the other two. See the extract below, from Mr. Gregg’s essay. It would be a very interesting matter to ascer- tain exactly what has become of the proceeds of the cotton crop of Georgia, since it first became an article of cultivation here, or even for the jast ten years. Suppose that, for the period last named, the average crop has been two hundred and fifty thousand bales, of three hundred and fifty pounds each, and that the average price has been ten cents per pound. This would give a gross income, for the ten years, of eighty seven and an half millions of dollars. Now, what has become of this immense amount of wealth, created by the culture of cotton in a single State 1 It is certainly not to be found among ourselves. We must look for it in Kentucky and Tennessee, New York, Boston, Lowell, &c. Indeed, over the whole of the Northern States there may be found decisive evidences of its lavish exnenditure. And it would be a very curious matter to ascertain exactly how' much of it has gone W’'est, how' much North and East, and hew very little of it is where it ought to be, that is, among ourselves, who created it. In this matter of absenteeism, by which so large a portion of the product of Southern labor is transferred to the North, without a substantial equivalent, if there w'ere any reciprocity, be- tween the North and the South, the result would not be so ruinous to us. But though we go North yearly, and spend our money there pro- fusely, who ever heard of Northern people com- ing South and doing the same thing among us. Oh, no— they are too keen for that. Even those who are compelled to come South during the winter, on account of health, often contrive by engaging in some business or other, to return in spring better off than when they left home. Their plan is to stay at home, unless compelled to seek a milder climate in winter; or if they do travel for pleasure, to go any where but to the South: thus taking care to keep up the drain upon our resources, getting from us all they can, both by their own efforts and by the system of national legislation they have forced upon us, and keeping all they get. Nor are they to be blamed for all this. They are but obeying the dictates of what has always been human nature. They are only doing what people have done in all ages of the world, since the words “proper- ty” and “money” were first known, and the things signified by them, understood. It is wm of the South, who have been such simpletons as to allow ourselves to be fleeced in this man- ner, w'ho ought to be scourged from folly. Mr. Gregg says : “One would not suppose that the South was laboring under embarrassment.s, if he were to THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 73 see the crowds that are continually thronging the Northern cities and places of amusement. 1 have heard the number variously estimated at from 40 to 60 thousand m one summer. Taking the lower estimate of the two, and allowing for the expenses of each individual S300, (and this is certainly below the mark,) we shall have S12,000,000 transferred yearly from the South to the North, by absenteeism. As bad off as we know South Carolina to be, yet we are cer- tain she furnishes her full quota of this immense sum. Go where you may, in the city or out ol it — in what direction you please, and you can scarcely set your foot into a railroad car, in which you will not find some half dozen persons froin this State. The register book of every fashionable hotel that I visited, exhibited a large share of names, with South Carolina aUached to them. Nor are our people remarkable for their economical habits, as the bar-keepers will inform you, that their wine bills exhibit liberali- ty even to wastefulness. You may see them, too, flying around cities, in the finest and most costly equippages that money can procure, and while a. millionare of New York is content to ride in an oT/inibuSj from AVall-strect to the upper part of the city, many of these persons, not worth ten thousand dollars, would be ashamed to be seen in such vehicles. With tailors, .milliners, mantua-makers, &c., these persons are consider- ed to have gold without measure, and it is a per- fect windfall for them to meet occasionally with one. You cannot step into a furniture store, carpet warehouse, or dry goods establishment, where fine silks and laces are sold, without meeting persons from our State, making lavish expenditures and purchasing thousands of arti- cles of wearing apparel, which are not worn until they return home, where the same articles can be obtained in stores of our own tradesmen, at cheaper rates th3.n those at which they were' purchased at the North. “Atone tailor’s establishment in Boston, I was informed by the proprietor, that his sales for the last year, to Charleston alone, amounted to upwards of 850,000, and this year he expect- ed they would reach S80,000. How much trade others in Boston in the same business receive from Charleston, and what amount falls to the lot of the fashionable clothiers of New York pd Phdadelphia, cannot be estimated, but there is little doubt, that the amount wmuli be found quite sufficient to support three or four fashion- able establishments in our own citv.” Subsoil Pioiving. We cannot impress too strongly on the minds of our readers the importance of subsoil plow- ing. In the Southern part of the United States, so liable, of late years, to long and parching droughts, it may be set down as being very nearly the first element of success. Manure is essential— just as essential to the well being of plants, as are corn and hay for animals. Yet, if there is anything that will enable us to do with less manure than would otherwise be necessary, it is subsoil plowing; simply because, by loosen- ing the soil to a greater depth, it furnishes to the roots of plants a more extensiim range, in which to collect their food, and gives them a power of resisting drought which no one will believe pos- sible until he shall have seen it. We cannot get subsoil plows here except at a very heavy and unreasonable expense for trans- portation, there being no manufactory of the article at the South yet, so far as we know ; and perhaps those made for Northern soils, even il we could get them readily, would not suit our purposes, in our light and exhausted soils. The best substitute will be to use a good turning plow to the depth of the top soil. In the bottom of the furrow run two or three times, as deep as it can be made to go, what is usually known as a coulter, turn the next furrow of top soil on to the subsoil thus loosened; then use the coul- ter as before, in the bottom of the new furrow and so on, through the whole field. So great is the benefit of thus loosening the subsoil, that we have seen it confidently stated that the produce of any soil would be doubled by this process, without a particle of manure. If any one would like to see subsailing, as we have described it, effectually and neatly done, he has only to visit the plantation of Judge Dougherty, near Athens, “ By cultivation,” says the American Far- mer, from which we quote what follows, “the potash on the surface, originally existing in most soils, is taken up by the growing plants, and unless such soils be periodically ashed, in the course of a series of years, that portion of the land within the reach of the roots, must be- come deprived of this necessary element of its fertility, and hence it is, that soils which were once renowned for their wheat-producing quali- ties, cease to yield that grain in such quantities as to render its culture profitable. Without potash be present, the sand of the soil cannot be dissolved, and as that is the essential princi- ple in the formation of the outer c/ust of coim- stalks,as well as that of all the families of small grain, as wheat, barley, rye, &c.,the exhaustion of cultivation must either be supplied by the application of ashes, or some other alkaline sub- stance possessing the attribute of di.ssolving the sand, and forming the compound called the silicate of potash, or the culturist must draw upon the subsoil fov a supply. Hence, then, it is obvious, thatihere is no other way left, of pro- curing such supply from beneath the surface, in. the first instance, but by breaking up the subsoil, and bringing it within the indirect chemical ac- tion of the solai and atmospheric influences, and ultimately of turning portions of it up to be directly acted upon by the same powerful agents; thereby not only commingling an im- jJortant ingredient with the theretofore exhausted surface soil, but deepening the bed of the plants, and thus enhancing the range whence they de- rive their sustenance. “ If the subsoiling of land wms productive of no other good effects than those we have alluded to, it would be worth four times the cost it may occasion. But there are other beneficial result- ing effects. In moderately moist lands, by-the process of percolation, which it encourages and augments, subsoiiing serves to relieve-the roots of the superabundance of water which, in tena- cious clays, always abounds, and imparts to them the medium of healthful existence. We mention in this connection ‘moderately moist lands,’ because where they may be what is tech- nically called wetlands, subsoiling might prove not to be an effectual means of draining, and it might be found necessary and proper to drain- such lands by covered or open drains, prior to the operation of subsoiling. But even in wet lands . it would be found highly efficacious, because, although the operation might not be sufficient of itself, yet it would prove of infinite service. By deepening the soil, moisture, in times of drought, would be much longer maintained than in shal- low tilth, as it is a well established fact, that its tendency is upwards, and that that tendency is encouraged by the voltaic action of the roots— therefore, as a necessary consequence,the plants wmuld draw a supply from the subsoil long after the moisture in the surface soil would have been abstracted by the sun and air. Having thus briefly stated our views ol the goodeffects of subsoiling, we would be permitted to ask some of our agricultural friends, to make experiments to test the efficacy of subsoiling. This may be done by subsoiling an acre of corn ground, and simply plowing the adjoining acre, manuring and cultivating both alike, and meas- uring the product of each. We do not profess to be a prophet, but we will venture the pro- phec}^ that the subsoiled acre would yield one- third more than the one which was not — and surely if an operation which will cost no more than the ordinary plowing of an acre will add so much to the production of the soil, no man should hesitate to make an experiment, because his interest — fhai great lever which propels man- kind onward to exertion— will be inevitably pro- moted by it.” The Alpaca. -^llcn, of the American Agriculturist, says. Keeping Alpacas on the mountain ranges of the Southern States, would yield the plante.rs large profits, and compensate them for the low price of cotton on the seaboard.” Mr. Hatch, of the Western Cultivator, says; “In Virginia, North and South Carolina, and Geor- gia, there are mountains and highlands enough, if converted into walks for the sheep of the Andes (Alpacas,) as wquld, in a very few years, add a million to the annual income of those States.” We have here, from two remote and widely different quarters. New York and Indiana, at the same time, an indication of a new pursuit for the people of the South. That the intro- duction of the Alpaca would be attended with very great advantages, if it should succeed, we have no doubt. The wmol is in great demand for the manufacture of the very fine and pecu- liar cloth so much prized by the ladies, three and an bail millions of pounds having been import- ed into England last year. The Alpaca is represented to be a very gen- tle, docile and graceful creature, living and thriving on coarser food than commonsheep re- quire, and enduring the winter better. Indeed, the principal difficulty attending the attempt to introduce them into England, is thought to arise from the excessive luxuriance of English pas- tures. But even with this disadvantage, the animal is found to come to maturity sooner, by two years, in England, than in the Peruvian mountains; and the fleece is increased from ten to seventeen pounds. Their flesh, when young, is eatable— the carcass weighing about 180 lbs. But the wool is the chief article of value, being fine, soft and silky, and commanding high prices and ready sales. Alpacas can be bought of the Earl of Derby, near Liverpool, fur about two hundred dollars per pair. But they can be brought from their native country at less expense. The first cost and e.xpense of transportation to the shinning THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. port, it is said, will not exceed per headj cost of transportation to a port in the United States, is supposed not to exceed S20 — making cost in Charleston or Savannah, S25. To this, should be added the expenses of a native shep- herd, who should, in all cases, be got to fake charge of the animals during the voyage. English noblemen and farmers are bestowing great attention on the introduction of the Alpaca into England and Scotland j and thus far, their efforts have met with extraordinary success. Why should not our planters be eager to engage in an enterprise, that may add so much to the resources of our country'? The only serious impediment that we can see in the way, dis- couraging every thing like enterprise in the business of wool growing, or the introduction of the .Alpaca, comes from the multitude of worthless dogs with which the country is infest- ed. Mr. Chiles, of Harrodsburg, Kentucky, recently lost seventy select fine wooled breeding ewes in one night, by dogs. It can't be too often repeated, that before our people undertake rais‘ ing either Sheep or Alpacas, with any reasona- ble expectation of success, they must besupplied with the shepherd’s dog. Of this most faithful and most useful animal, we add hereunto an account taken from the Salem Register, Ohio> into which paper it was copied from a late English work: THE SHEPHERD’S DOG. The shepherd’s dog in his own department is a perfect miracle of intelligence. He under- stands the sign, the voice, the look of his mas- ter. He collects the scattered sheep at the slightest signal, separates any one that is indi- cated froni the rest of the flock, drives them wherever he is told, and keeps them all the while under perfect control, less by his active exer- tions than by the modulations of his voice, which expresses every tone from gentle instruc- tion to angry menace. These are his o.rdinary performances, visible every day in a thousand pastures. But he can do greater wonders. It chanced one night that seven hundred lambs, committed to the keeping of the Ettrick shepr herd, broke loose from his control and scampered away in three divisions over hill and plain. “Sirrah, my man,” said Hogg mournfully to his colly, meaning it for an expression of grief, and notfbra direction, “they’re awa.” Silently and without his master’s knowledge, for it was too dark to see, the dog left his side, while the shepherd passed the hours till morning in a weary and fruitless search after his wandering charge. At the dawn of the day he was about to return home with a heart full of despair, when he caught a sight of Sirrah guarding at the bot- tom of a deep ravine, not, as he at first suppos- ed, one division of the lambs, but the whole of the vast flock, without a solitary exception. “It was,” says James Hogg, “the most extra- ordinary circumstance that had ever occurred in my pastoral life. Blow he had got all the divis- ions collected in the dark, is beyond my com- prehension. The charge was left entirely to himself, from midnight until the rising of the sun, and if all the shepherds in the forest had been there to have assisted him, they could not have effected it with greater propriety.” On another occasion the same famous shepherd saw a dog, when it was utterly dark, put upon the path of a ewe that had been lost by her owner neai a neighbor’s farm, and which was supposed to have mingled with her fellows that were feed- ing in the surrounding pastures. “Chieftain,” said the master of the dog, pointing to the spot from which the sheep had gone offi “fetch that, I say, sir — bring that back; away.” Andaway he went, and back he brought, in halt an hour, the identical sheep. A sheep-stealer, who was at last discovered and hange *, used to carry on his trade by secretly signifying the particular sheep that he desired out of a large flock, as he viewed them under the pretence of purchasing, to his dog, who, returning bv himself a distance of several miles at night, drove the selected sheep, which was undoubtedly the fattest, to his fastidious owner. Both Scott and Hogg re- late thispicturesque story more circumstantially from the annals of the Justiciary Court, in Scot- land. Sir ThomasWilde knew aninstancein which three oxen out of some score, had mingled with another herd. “Go fetch them,” was all the instruction the drover gave his dog, and he instantly brought along with him those very three. A cattle dealer, accustomed to drive his beasts for nine miles to- Alston, in Cumberland, once for a w’ager, sent them alone with his dog. The animal perlecfcly understood his commis- sion. He kept the straight road, ran, when he came to a strange drove, to the head ol his own to stop their progress, put the beasts that blocked the path upon one side, then went back again to the rear to hie on his charge, and thus adroitly steering his way and keeping his herd together, he carried them safely to the destined yard, and signified their arrival by barking at the door of the dwelling. Agricultural Education. Even in North Carolina they are going ahead of us in the- business of agricultural education. An agricultural school has been recently estab- lished in Ashe county, in that State, under the patronage of Bishop Ives. The establishment comprises about five hundred acres ol land, with the necessary buildings. The pupils are re- quired to labor, only so much as may be neces- sary to illustrate practically the principles they are taught in the school. In all the branches of a liberal education, the course of instruction is thoroush. The expenses are one hundred and t wenty-five dollars per year, for tuition, board, washing and fuel. In connection herewith, we copy from the Southern Planter a letter from Bishop Ives to the Editor : Raleigh, March 12, 184-5. My De.\r Sir— Many thanks for your very interesting and useful publication, which I have received; also, for the straw cutter, which I- hope soon to receive. The progress in agricul- tural knowledge and improvement, is most gra- tilying. The evidence.? of increased interest in the subject here, are striking. The book mer- chants, Turner & Hughes, inform me, that du- ring the late sitting of our Legislature, more books on agriculture were disposed of than had been for ihe previous seventeen years, the length of time in which they had done business in this place. This is encouraging, not only to the worldly economist, but to the Christian minis- ter, for I regard the cultivation ol the soil as intimately connected with the religion and mo- rality of a country. My own observation has led to this conviction, and hence, in an attempt to do something for the spiritual interests of our roving mountaineers, I have felt it my duty to endeavor, firs,t of all, to break up their habits of idleness and hunting, and infuse among them a spirit for the improvement of their rich, but neglected lands. Indeed, I look to the change of feeling now going on in favor o( agriculture in this State, as one of the most promising signs of the tinges, both in regard to ihe ph3'sical and moral advancement ol the people. E.'ccuse these quite unintentional remarks. At a luture time, 1 may take up this subject in earnest, with a view to aid in ihe impression which your deserving periodical is slowly, but surely producing in favor of agriculture. With the truest regard, your friend and ser- vant, L. S. Ives. We cannot close this article more appropri- ately, than by making an extract or two from an address delivered in October last, by Ralph R. Phelps, before the Hartford County (Con- necticut) Agricultural Society ; by the way, one of the very best of the very many good essays on domestic economy and home education, which we are indebted to the Yankees for. Speaking of the disposition of young men “to leave the farm for a profession, a clerkship, a trade, or even a pedlar’s trunk or cart,” he as- signs, among the causes of the prevalence of this spirit, “false ideas of honor and respecta- bility, surly, morose and scolding habits of pa- rents,” and “ the rough, uncouth and comfor,- less appearance of many farmers’ houses and out-buildings.” Mr. P. then proceeds to point out a remedy, as follows : “ Let no farmer’s wife think her children (oo. good to labor; but on the contrary, let her strive early to fix habits of industry. Let every mo- ther teach her sons, that while labor on the farm is honorable, idleness, ignorance and vice alone bring reproach.. And when this lesson is tho- roughly impressed on the mind of her son, and corresponding habits are formed, that son will be likely to make an efficient man and a useful citizen, whether he be following a profession, or be engaged in the more sate and more pleasant pursuit of agriculture. But when the mother, without this lesson, and without these habits, undertakes to make her son a gentleman, she is lar more likely to make him a loafer. “ Let parents labor to give all their children a good education. Let the absurd notion, that a farmer needs no education, be banished from every dwelling. There is no pursuit where in- telligence and a well cultivated and a well dis- ciplined mind ‘is more necessary, than in the proper management of the farm. Let the mind be enlarged by a knowledge of history, political economy, and especially the sciences connected with agriculture. Let the young farmer enrich his mind by general reading. Let him tho- roughly understand our political institutions ; and be able to judge ol his political rights and duties, without the aid ol some demagogue, who had rather devote his time to watching over the public interests, than to the pursuit of honest industry. In short, let the farmer be able to reason, to examine and to judge lor himself, and he will soon take the elevated rank in society to which his calling entitles him, and he will no longer have ihe opportunity of complaining that professional men have too much influence. This will have a great tendency to attach far= mers’ sons to their homes and to their farms.” For the /Southern Cultivator. Deep Plowing. Mr. Camas— By your request, Igive you the result of a trial made by myself the last year in deep plowing. Having received, late in Feb- ruary, several varieties of wheat, distributed from the Patent o^ce, I immediately prepared a small piece of ground in the following man- ner: first, 1 ran a good turning plow and follow- ed in the same lurraw with a long scooter. I attended to it in person, and am certain that the ground was thoroughly broken, to the depth oi both ploivs. The wheat, as I feared, was too late, and was destroyed by the rust. A thick coat of crab grass came up and was suffered to grow until August, when it was cut and cured — making, on about a quarter of an acre, three cart loads of most excellent hay of unusual length, measuring three feet and upwards. Indeed, it was the thiekest and most luxuriant plat of grass I ever saw. The land was without manure ; the season was unusually dry, so much so, that 1 made but lit- tle over "half a crop of corn, 1 had another piece of land left for the purpose of making hay, which 1 know to be a great deal richer, having had the drainings ol the horse-lot for years. THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 75 This received one single plowing^ but did not produce grass high enough to cut. These facts led me to leflect upon the cause of the differ- ence between the product of the two pieces, with- out intending it as a comparative experiment. The result, together with the attending circum- stances, satisfied me that the superior yield of the piece could be attributed alone to the thorough and deep plowing it received in the spring. Very respectfully, Willi AJis Rutherford, Jr. CoiepenSj Walton Co., March2l, 1845. For the Southern Cultivator. Bread~Stuffs— A Contrast. SVte consequences of an abundance of Bread-Stuffs on the prosperity of a Country, contrasted with an absence of that plenty and cheop^iess. .Arty one who has occasion to visit the North- ern States, observes, on returning homeward, a fact that startles him, in the difference presented to the eye, in the two sections ol country. There, he sees an appearance of comfort; men of very moderate means live in neat houses; those of greater wealth in splendid ones ; there seems to be a place for every thing, and every thing is in its place. Here, the picture is altogether different ; people seem to regard their places of abode as ne- cessary evils, and pay as lit le attention to ma- king them either neat or comfortable as possible. They seem to esteem a house and its fixtures like an Arab does his tent, as something that is to be occupied for only a brief moment, and any pains and expense in adapting it to comfortable living, as an unnecessary wmste of time and mo ney. As to ornamenting the grounds around it, with trees and shrubbery, such an idea does not seem to have occurred to the occupant. There, if you have occasion to stop at a house in the country, you find at the table, food prepared properly; and butter, milk, and seasonable vege- tables are set before you. Here, you have that eternal dish— fried bacon, or pork, if it is winter, swimming in grease, “and nothing else,” ex- cept “ long coi/artfs” and bread. Theownermay have his principal wealth in cattle, to the amount of many hundred, as is the case in some places, and if it is winter or spring, he has not an ounce of butter to offer you, and rarely even milk enough to put in your coffee. Inquire the price of building a house there, and the amount is small. Hete, the cost is so great, as to deter any one from building a good one, any where else than in a large towm. It would be thought extravagance to entertain the idea in the country. There is a cause ior this disparity in the condi- tion and appearance of these two sections of the same country. What is that cause I This ques- tion has been often asked in our presence, and the answer has always involved some abstrusity wholly irrelevant to the subject, in our view of the case. Are we less intelligen t than our neighbors I Has a genial sun rendered us less capable of the use of our mental faculties than they I This will hardly be admitted. The' real cause, from its very ooviousness, seems to have been over- looked, in searching after remote ones. It is be- cause they produce bread and meat in abundance, and we do not. That there are other auxiliary causes, in the way of unequal revenue law^s, &c. which tend to raise one section and depress an- other, we doubt not ; but the radical cause is the one we have stated, we believe. In order to see its effect readily, let us suppose you have a house to build. Yon must have lum- ber, brick and lime ; a carpenter is to be employ- ed to build the house, a bricklayer to make the chimnies and plaster the walls. The sawyer asks you a price for the lumber that appears high, when taken in connection with the plenty and cheapness of water power and pine timber, but he solves the difficulty very soon, by telling you the price he has to pay for corn, to subsisfhim- self, his hands, and his mules, which haul th.- stocks to the mill and the lumber away from it. Each mule, purchased from a Kentuckian, costs him $75 or $30, and the corn to feed them costs him, to assume the current rates in Macon at this date, 75 cents per bushel. It is easy to see the effect of this on lumber, The same reasons ap- ply with the brick-maker, and lime-burner, pre- cisely. Then go to the carpenter and bricklayer and tell them the price of building a house and a chimney and of plastering at the North, and ask them why they cannot afford to work at the same rates. They will tell you that living is cheap at the North, it is dear here. And you have a solution of the whole mystery, and build your house at twice the cost which would be ne- cessary, i^ you lived in a country where provis- ions were plenty andcheap. But here the farmer turns upon us, and asks. What is to become of me if I can get but 25 cents for my corn'? We answer, that with an abun- dance of corn at that price, and every thing else at a proportionate rate, you will live more plenti- fully, more comfortably and independently in every respect ; yourself, and the whole face of the country and its population, from the petti- fogger to the pig, inclusively, will be better off and happier. What is the difference to the far- mer in dollars and cents, if he gets 25 cents for his>forn, and can build a house for S4C0, or if he gets 75 cents, and the house costs him $1200? It is as broad as it is long, so far as cost is con- cerned. But as to his comfort and the general prosperity of the country, there is a great dif- ference. There is this essential difference in the habits of a Northern and a Southern man. The one, whether in Connecticut or in Georgia, if he re- moves here permanently, thinks in the first place of making himself, as Baillie Nicol Jarvie says, “what he calls comiortable.” Then he looks out as keenly as other men for the ways and means of getting rich, but he must be comfortable while he is doing it. Every thing must be neat and tidy about him. The other, without any syste- matic econom)', is indifferent about the present, and lives altogether in the hope of realizing a fortune in the future, when he expects to live as he pleases. And when that time arrives, habit has grown to be second nature, and as to the enjoyments of life he is no better off than when he began — “Always to be, but never blest. — Frequently careless even in his personal altiie, and*always slovenly in the arrangement of his house, out-houses, gates, fences and grounds. With every element^of prosperity a country could ask, we of the Southern States are the most dependant on others, of any people within our knowledge ; and the face of the land pre- sents to a stranger the most poverty-stricken aspect of any that meets his eye anywhere. — This is a humiliating confession from a son of the soil, “one to the manner born,” but however disagreeable, it is a truth that must be known and felt by all before the evil can be obviated. We scourge ourlands by continuous crops of cot- ton, without a year of rest or rotation, and buy everything; while others improve their lands atid make every thing at home they can. Not to speak of wearing apparel, and other like articles of necessary use, every one of which, coarse and fine, is made elsewhere, and is a source of drain to the industry of this section. But look on your tables and see if y'our meat does not come rom Tennessee; look at your plows and see if every mule that draws them is not bought of Kentucky; even the horses which draw your carriages come from there. Many pursue a line of policy on this subject, the very reverse of their own interests, from a mistaken idea of what their true interest is; others do so from sheer inertness and a w'ant of reflection ; some from being deluded by maxims applicable to particular situations and necessi ies, and not capable of general application. The Is land of Malta imports all its bread stuffs, and why ? Because it is a rock, and incapable, from its want of soil, as well assize, to raise them. Is that the case here? England impoits bread stuffs and yet prospers ; and what is the reason ? By her gigantic power having, through a credit systemof her own, made herself the heart of the monetary wmrld, she can display an appearance of prosperity, in despite, and not by reason, of that deficie.icy, in the capacity of the realm, to produce provisions sufficient for its accumulated population. Some of the West India Islands, and some plantations on the Mississippi, do not raise their provisions, but the reasons which may be good there, do not hold here. We, to he pros- perous, must make bread and meat plenty and cheap. Turn the question as you will, it re solves itself into this. In a succeeding article, we discuss the ques- tion of raising our own meat, and endeavor to show that it is the present, as well as prospective interest of the far.mer to do so. J. B. I,. Macon, Ga. For the Southern Cultivator. Can a farmer buy his meat cheaiier than he can raise It at home I It is a common place remark with a class of slip-shod sort of planters, that “ a man can buy his meat cheaper than he can raise it.” At some particular junctures, when corn is high and meat low, this may be momentarily the case, if cotton happens to bear a fair price at the time. Taken for a series of years, this maxim is devoid of 4iuth, and ruinous to individuals and the coun- try in its effects. And what guaranty has he that the supply of meat from abroad may not fall short, as has been the case this year with mules? And no circumstance tends more to bring about that result, than the late very low prices^which are calculated to dishearten the Tennesseean, and prevent his bringing the former quantity to market. This year” meat has been unusually low, and that very fact may add 50 per cent, to its price another year, and the meat buying farm- er will find himself at^the mercy of the Tennes- sean. To reason by analogy this will very likely happen. Any one can recollect that in 1843, good mules sold here for SIO to $35, and the same description brought $75 this past winter. What safeguard has the planter who raises neither meat or mules, against these periodical revulsions in the market of those articles? — revulsions de- pendant on the laws of supply and demand, which his helpless situation prevents him from averting from his own door. A planter who raises corn, near a large market town, may some- times make money by selling his cor.n at a high price, which usually happens once or so in a sea- son, and buying his meat. But the great mas.s of farmers live at a distance from a marke', and have no such advantages. But if even this one turns speculator and sells corn to buy meat, he will find, in an average of years, he will make but little by it. Let us examine the question of meat-buying closely. Say two acres of land will produce a bag of cotton weighiir? 400 pounds; this, at five cents, will be $20. What would this same two acres of ground produce, if cultivated in corn and fed to four hogs of a year old ? We have estima- ted that it produces 600 weight of seed cotton to the acre, according to the above calculation, and land which yields that muchco'ton will bring •^0 bushels of corn. Well, that would be 40 bushels of corn, which, fed to four hogs of a year old, at the rate of ten ! ushels to each, would make each one weigh certainly 175 pounds net. Multiply this by four, and we have 700 pounds of pork as the result, which, at three cents per pound, is $21 — a difference of a dollar against the theory of “it is cheaper to buy than to raise,’'i^ with the additional advantage of placing the farmer above the contingencies of a short supply and high prices. Since we began this article, in looking over our papers, the following apposite remarks of the Albany Cultivator, on the subject of the po.fk market, has met our eye, and we transfer it here as a corroboration of our suppositions. We had supposed, in the usual course of things, thisfluc- tuatio.i might take place, and it seems that in {act it has taken placi sooner than eve expected: — “ DeFICIEN'CY ly THE SupPLY OF PoRK FOR 1344. — We are not surprised at the falling off in the amount of pork slaughtered in the West last season. From 1838 to 1841, it is well known that an excitement, amounting almost to a ma- nia, prevailed through the country in relation to hogs. Improved breeds were sough' after with great avidity, and in many instances very high prices were paid, particularly for Berkshires.— The natural consequence of this excitement was, first, that unusual numbers of hogs were reared and fattened, and of course the pork market was glutted. The unprecedentedly low prices of pork in the western markets, for the years 1811 to 1343, proved almost ruinous to those farmers who relied on that article for their chief income. Many farmers were forced to sell their hogs for no more than a dollarand fifty cents per hundred, ' dead weight,’ and in some instances for less. They could not stand such low prices, and hence followed the second result of the former 'Let practical farmers examine all the above calcu- lations, and make such alterations as may .suit the yield of their land, and accord \vi ih Iheir e.xperience, and they will find that we are not far from right in the main. 76 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. excitement, viz : the raising of but a small num- ber of hogs, and the falling off in the quantity of pork killed in the western country last year. We see it stated in various papers that the amount packed at Cincinnati last year was less by one- third than for the year previous. At St. Louis it is said the decrease is still greater; and through the State of Illinois there is said to have been a falling off of from one-ihird to one-half. In Ohio the falling oH was much greater, as we are in- formed, at the interior slaughtering places, than at Cincinnati. In the Scioto valley, for instance, where the number slaughtered at nine places in 1843 was 121,800, the number for 1344 is only 48,350. It seems probable,from present prospects, that pork will command at least remunerating prices the coming fall, and those farmers who had the foresight to see this, and have wisely provided themselves with a sufficient stock of a good breed of hogs, will be likely to reap their reward.” So we may e.xpect an increase of price, for some time to come, and the same causes which have produced this reaction in Ohio, will proba- bly develope themselves in Tennessee a year later, in time to affect the next winter’s supply of pork lierc. Now let us suppose that the planter, who purchased his naeat last winter at three cents, should have to pay five cents for it the next, and see how our calculation above will stand affected by it. The 700 pounds of meat at that increased price would be worth §35, which would be a dif- ference of §15 against his anti-meat raising sys- tem. And while these serious changes aie taking place, may there not be a decline in cotton! — Such things take place occasionally, as he is aware ; and, instead ot purchasing his meat with cotton at five cents, or, in other woras, giving a pound ot cotton for a pound of meat, may not cotton fall to four cents'? In that case it makes the difference stand against his theory at S19, or very near one hundred per cent. We trust that we have shown, that if at parti- cular times, for a short period at best, the planter does well to buy his supply of meat, with the proceeds of his cotton and corn, in the main that plan is destructive of his own interests, and in a high degree prejudicial to the general welfare and prosperity ot the community at large. The far- mer is truly the bone and sinew of the country. His prosperity makes all others prosperous, and his ruin is succeeded by a destruction to all other callings. If collectively, the tarnaers of a coun- try pursue a correct policy, which results happily to themselves, the whole land smiles ; if they pursue the infatuated course, heretofore follow- edin Geoigia, the country is clad in the lugubri- ous raiment of sack-cloth and ashes. When will the farmers of Georgia pursue their true in- terests, and raise the dejected head of their be- loved State'? J. B. L. 3Iacon, Ga., Aj.ril, 1845. Foi the Southern Cultivdtor. The Bominer Method of Making Manure. Mr. Editor — At the request of a friend, who entertains perhaps too favorable an opinion of my practical knowledge of planting, I send you, for publication, the following remarks on my experi- ment on the Bommer method of making manure. It was no part of my purpose, at the outset, to publish anything in relation to thi s process, which I knew was already in tne hands of many who were every way more capable of performing this public service. This will account for, if not ex- cuse, that want of precision in the results of the experiment, which could alone render it of the slightest importance to scientific agriculture. Where this precision is wanting, my individual opinion must go for what it is worth. In the latter" part of 1843, I purchased the pa- tent Bommer method of making manure, and, in January, 18l4, I put up a heap 30 by 40 feet, and 6 feet high, composed of leaves, straw, a large proportion of which was of corn-stalks, which I watered for about six weeks, according to the printed directions which accompany the pa'ent. During this peri id, the weather was extremely cold and dry, which is considered the most unfa- vorable slate of the atmosphere, for fermentation or decomposition. On examination of the heap, I found the mateiials had very unequally decom- posed ; that the most solid matters, as the corn and cotton-stalks, were but slightly decomposed, while the less solid, such as straw, leaves, &c., were rapidly rotting, though not thoroughly de- composed. Into the lye, with which the heap had been watered, I put four barrels lime, thirty pounds saltpetre, and two two-horse wagon loads cf fresh stable manure. About the first of March, one half of the heap was hauled out, on one part of a field of worn land, the other part of which I manured with lot and stable manure, and planted the whole field in corn. The yield was, I think, about double the usual crop ; and the best judges that saw the field pronounced that part manured by the Bommer manure decidedly the best. The other half of the heap was hauled out on part of a cotton field, otherwise unmanured. In the spring and first part of the summer, there were periods of pro- tracted drought, and the product of manured lands, whether with cotton seed, stable manure, or Bommer’s manure, was not what might have been anticipated. But the decided superiority of the Bommer manure, imperfectly rotted as it was, over the stable manure, was so marked that the slightest observation could not fail to detect the difference in the size and vigor of the stalks and ears. Its effects upon the cotton was no less de- cided ; and though I did not weigh the product, I feel assured that it was increased by the Bom- mer manure at,_ least one hundred per cent, over the unmanured part of the field. In February, 1644, I put up another heap; of the labor and time employed on which, I am ena- bled to give a more specific account. I had fifteen hands and two wagons engaged in this w'ork ; the materials employed w’ere pine leaves, straw', and corn-stalks, all in a dry state, much the largest portion being pine leaves. The site was cleared of trees and shrubs, by digging up their roots. The vat was excavated, and the grate construct- ed, and 500 wagon loads of material were put on, and all in readiness for w'atering in eight days. This may give an idea of the labor necessary to putting up the first heap, though greatly exag- gerated as to the time and labor to be bestowed on any subsequent heap — for full half the time and labor was consumed in clearing the trees, ex- cavating the vat, and making the grate, which need nothing but slight repairs to keep them ser- viceable for years. On this last heap, I used ten barrels of lime, four loads ashes, forty pounds saltpetre, four bushels common salt, and about four loads fresh stable manure. Prom this heap, I hauled on a cotton field about 300 wagon loads of as fine,, rich, well rotted manure as I have ever seen, and have manured for the present crop about thirty acres in drill, filling up the furrow with the manure. I have applied the lye to my garden vegetables, with the most happy effects. Under its application, beets and cabbage plants thrive beyond any thing in nty former experience in gardening. It is, indeed, to this mixture, I ascribe the chief efficacy of the manure, and the absorption of the largest quantity of the c.^m- pound is of the greatest importance to the fer- tilizing property of the manure. The frequent and thorougir watering is therefore of indispen- sable necessity. Disappointment awaits the far- mer who does not give this part of the process constant attention. To obviate as far as possi- ble, this laborious part of the process, 1 have used a commo.i plank pump, of three inches bore, made by a common carpenter with a hose made of cotton or osnaburgs, w'hich should be oiled or painted. With these appliances, three able bodied hands watered the heap, after it was fully saturated, in three or four hours. In conclusion, I have no hesitation in declar- ing my opinion, that a planter may manufacture as much .of this manure in the year as he can haul out in the next spring; that the labor and trouble of the method, when once fairly under way, is scarcely beyond what is incident to mak- ing manure of any other kind ; that theexpense is trifling, in comparison with the returns of the outlay ; and I heartily and honestly recommend it to every farmer and planter, who wishes to in- crease the product of his fields, and render their improvement permanent. Yours, &c. William Byne. For the Southern Cultivator. Silk. ]\Ir. Camak:— In order to induce my brother farmers to plant less cotton and turn their atten- tion to something else, I would inform them, througli your valuable paper, that 1 have been raising silk in this county for the last six years, end have found it a profitable and interesting employment. So tvell satisfied am I that it is the best agricultural pursuit now followed, that I have just completed an extensive cocoonry, and planted out five acres more of mulberry trees; and I intend to increase my stock annually. I have all my cocoons reeled, made into sewing silk, dyed, and put up in skeins, by my own fam- ily; and I find no d\fficulty in selling it at a fair price. I am prepared for reeling extensively; and would give a fair price for cocoons delivered at Savannah, or at the twenty or thirty mile station, on the Central Rail Road. F'or good cocoons, of the present year’s crop, cured by exposure to the heat of the sun, (which is much belter than steaming or baking in an oven,) from which all the double and soft ones have been picked, and the floss taken off, I will give two dollars and fifty cents per b-ushel. A first rate article would be worth 'omething more. I send you a few skeins of silk as a sample of what has been done, and of what, (wdth a little care and attention) might be done, by almost any farmer in the /State. Your ob’t. serv’t. Hugh Cassidey. Bermuda Grass. To the Editor of the iSoutheni Cultivator: Dear Sir — Your much esteemed favor oi 24ih Feb. was duly received ; and the reason lor my not answering it before this, was, first, 1 have been much ot the time since from home, and secondly, you have asked me for informa- tion on a subject which I considei' of more im- portance to the agricultural interest ol our Slate than any other ; and on which, if it can be given satisfactorily, the man who does it will deserve, not only the silver cup, but the thanks and grati- tude oi our whole community. Its importance, therefore, caused me to hesitate whether I could give you the desired information, as 1 have not yet satisfied myself fully w’hether to look upon Bervmda Grass as a friend or enemy, a blessing or a curse. You have asked me to give you, in detail, botli my opinion of the value of the grass and my plan to get rid of it, when we want the land it occupies for other purposes. Now, il I could tell you satisfactorily how to accomplish the latter, without too much expense, (it indeed it can be killed at all,) then there would be no difficulty in saying, that this grass would be in- valuable. Not so much for grazing, as Mr. Spalding stales, or for hay, as Mr. Affleck says in your January number, as for the great bene- fit to our worn out lands, by putting them down in this grass, while not in hoed crops, to keep them from washing, and for giving them a sod of turf to supply the place of red clover. The ten thousand roots and runners, with considera- ble substance, (a.s^one of the above named gen- tlemen states,) afford valuable organic matter, to he turned under, when the land is fallowed, previous to a hoed crop, which 1 have iciind much improves the soil, when you succeed in killing and causing these roots, &c. to be de- composed in the earth. This brings me directly to the task of giving you my little experience in killing it, when the land is wanted for other purposes. Some four or five years since, I had a favorite four acre lot, which had been entirely overran by this grass, so as to be rendered useless for any other pur- pose than grazing. 1 concluded to try my hand in killing the grass in this lot, if I did not in other now large growing patches on my farm. I prepared myself with Ruggles, Nourse & Mason’s celebrated four-horse plow; put four strong mules to it, in April, turned the sod over, (better to have been done in the fall so as to have the benefit ot the frost,) let it lie a month, then harrowed it well with a heavy iron-tooth har- row, then drilled and planted the common cow- pea three leet wide, and cultivated well. The peas grew finely; I should think, off the lour acres’ I saved twelve or fifteen 'ons good pea- hay, pulled up by the roots when the peas were ripening. I sowed the lot down in wheat as soon as the peas came off. I took from the four acres, without manure, over one hundred bushels of clean wheat. By this time, by means of the pea crop, which wms' large, and succeed- ed by a wheal crop, also very good, I had so shaded the sun-loving Bermuda that 1 could THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. hardly see any of its roots, much less the aoove- ground runners. So great was my supposed triump.^, that I crowed largely over in 3^ fallen enemy, and talked much of its value among my neighbors, and told them that I did not dread it, hut rather intended to court a still more intimate acquaintance with it. After the wheat crop came off, 1 manured but lightly, fallowed and put the lot in readiness for Ruta-Baga. In July I commenced sowing in drills. I am certain I rook frona these four acres, over three thousand bushels of the finest turnips I ever saw grow in any country. After the turnips came off, I saw, in many places in the lot, bunches of the Ber- muda. " 1 then planted the whole four acres in squashes, and made a fine crop for my hogs, and as fine a lot of Bermuda as I had at the begin- ning! So, I thought I had killed it, but found 1 was mistaken. I now think I did not pursue the rotation of overshading crops long enough, to kill every root in the ground. 1 have no idea it can be killed in any other way than by overshadowing.cropsbt'tkose who have much of it, without too much expense. As to killing it by any kind of plowing, or planting hoed crops among it, this is utterly impossible, and particularly on our red stiff lands, such as mine are. It is a great deal easier to manage it in light and sandy lands; though even in these, you do not exterminate it, but by constant cul- ture yot? may keep it under so as to make crops. I am now just commencing to try a new method of destroying this grass, and that is, by a rotation of peas and Jerusalem artichokes, or perhaps peas, wheat, and then artichokes. I have, irom what I have seen of the artichoke, great faith in its being a valuable smotherer, for I would as soon try to drown a fish by throwing him m the wmter, as to kill Bermuda Grass by never so much working in the sun. Besides, if this will kill it, ymu do so with a most valuable c rop for sw’ine. I have tried various other methods to kill this grass, with little or no success, and which it is needless now to mention, as to m3'’mind there is no way so likely to be successlul as b}' over- shadowing crops, and that in succession for some two or three years ; and w^hen we shall be able to manage it, (if, indeed, we shall ever be,) it will be looked upon as a great blessing, which 1 must think a kind Providence intended it to be. John' CuN'NixGHAai. Greensboro, ( Ga ) March 20, 1845. Bowling Green Agricultural Society Fair. The Annual Fair of the Bowling Green Agri- cultural S’ociety will take place at Bowling Green, on Frida}', the last day of October next, when the following premiums and honors will be awarded ; Best bull, cup S'3 08 2d best Ist honor •For the best acre of up- land corn, a silver •cup, value. ...... ..83 00 2d best acre 1st honor 3d best 2d honor Best acre ol low-ground corn, cup .83 00 2d best acre 1st honor 3d best 2d honor Best acre of wheat, cup 83 00 2d best acre Ist honor 3d best 2d honor Best acre of oals, cup. -S3 OJ 2d best acre Ist honor 3d best.. 2d hon Best acre of sweet po- tatoes, cup 83 00 2d best acre Isthonor 3d-best 2d honor Best half acre of tur- nips, cup S3 00 2d best half acre. . 1st honor 3d best 2d honor For the best three year old colt, silver cup. .-S3 00 2d best colt Isthoiioi Sd best 2d honor Best two year old colt, cup. 83 00 2d best '. . .1st honor 3d best -Sd honor B -St spring colt, cup. .83 Oj 2d best ......Ist honor ■3d best... ‘2d honor 3d best ...2d honor Best cow, cup -83 00 2d best Ist honor 3d best 2d houor Best two year old heif- er, cup 83 06 2d best. 1st honor 3d best 2d honor Best spring calf, cup. .8360 2d best 1st honor 3d best 2d honor Best boar, cup S3 00 2d best .Ist honor 3d best id honor Best sow, -cup S3 00 2d best 1st honor 3d best 2d honor The heaviest hog un- der eighteen months old, in proportion to age, cup .....83 00 2d heaviest 1st honor 3d heaviest 2d honor Best conterpane, cup. §3 00 2U best 1st honor 3d best 2d honor Best eight yaids of do- mestic jeans. suitable for gentlemen’s wear, cup -S3 00 2d best 1st honor 3d best .2d honor Best article of Negro 00 honor 2d honor Tne Society l-.ave set apart ten dollars to be Best brood mare, cup S3 00 clothing, cup T.S3 b®st l.st honorl2J best 1st hot 3® best 2d honorjSd best awarded by their committees, to articles manu- factured by the ladies, not enumerated in their premium list, such as capes, collars, caps, &c. or any fancy article made by a lady. John W. 51-oady, President. William Jewell, Secretary. Farmers’ Couventiou. Milledgevills, 31st Alarch, 1845. The Agricultural Cor.v'enticn of the State of Georgia assembled this day at 12 o’clock, M., at the Court-house in this city. Delegates Irom the counties of Morgan, Cobb, Paulding, Put- nam and Baldwin, appeared and took their seats ; when, lor the purpose of organization, on motion of Maj. Wm. Y. Hansell, a delegate from the county of Cobb, Col. Herschel V. Johnson, of Baldwin, was called to the Chair. The Chairman having announced that he was prepared to receive any proposition which the Convention had to make, Air. Turner, from the countv ot Putnam, offered the lollowing resolu- tion : Resolved, That His Excellency tlie Governor of the State ol Georgia for the time being, be chosen President of “ the Agricultural Associ i- tion of the State ol Georgia” — which was adopted. It was resolved, on motion of Air. Grantland, from Baldwin, that the Chair appoint a Com- mittee to wait upon his Excellency, Gov. Craw- fo'd, and inform him of his appoimment. Wher-eupon the Chair appointed Alessrs. Grantland, Turner and Harris that Committee. The Committee having informed Gov. Craw- lord ol his apptdiitment, and conducted him to the Chair, after a few remarks relative 'o the o'bjects ol the Convention, he announced the body read}' to proceed to business. On motion of Air. Harris, it was Resolved, That Dr. John R. Dotting be ap- pointed Corresponding Secretary, and Benj. T. Bethune, Esq., Recording Secretary of the Ag- ricultural Association ol the State of Georgia. On motion of Air. Jones, of Paulding, it was Resolved, That the President appoint a Com- mittee ol five, whose duty it shall be to draft a Constitution lor the Association, and to recom- mend to the Convention the various subjects which shall be appropriate lor its consideraticn. The Committee named by' the Chair, were Alessrs. Jones, Turner, Johnson, Hansell and. Spear. The Conven.ion then adjournea till four o’clock, P. M. Four o’clock, p. m. Convention met pursuant to adjournment. Judge Jones, Chairman of the Committee to draft a Constitution, &c. reported the lollowing: Art. 1. This Society shall be known by the name of the Agricultural Association of Geor- gia.f and shall be composed of the members ol all Agricultui al Societies or Associations which are, or shall be hereafter formed in this State; audits annual meetings, which shall be held on the second Alonday of ^November In each year, inthe city cf Alilledgeville, shall consist ol a Convention of such delegates a-s each of said Societies shall send. Art. 11. Its officers shall consist of a Presi- dent, who shall be the Governor of the Slate for the time being, and as many Vice-Presidents as j there shall be Agricultural Societies or Assoc*la- ' -lions in the State; the several Presidents of j which shall be ex-officio A^ice-Presidents of this i Association— Pcecording and Corresponding Se- j cretaries — the Recording Secretary acting ex- •' officio as Treasurer. j Art. III. The object of this Association shall j be to promote, by all p.^oper means, the advance- | ment of the Agricultural and domestic econo- j my of the State in ail their various departments. ! Art. lAA At each annual meeting, there shall ' be an Executive Committee of five, appointed to receive the reports of such committees as this Association may appoint and such other matter as may be refercd to them through the Corres- ponding Secretary, and to perform such other duties as may be required oi them, or as may properly lall within their province. 77 Art. V. The lunds of this Association shall be composed of such moneys as may be raised by voluntary contributions. Art. VI. This Consiitutionmay be altered or amended by a vote of the majority of the members present at any annual meeting. Which report was received and adopted. The Committee further recommend the ap- pointment of the following committees; 1st. A Committee of to report to the ne.\t annual meeting on the subject ol the Agri- culture ol Georgia. 2. A Commiuee of to report on Grains. 3. A Committee of to report on Slock. 4. A Committee oi to report on such plants as may be profitably introduced, and which are not now csltivateci. 5. A Committee of to report cm manures. The Convention approved of the recommend- ation of the Committee, and on motion, it was Resolved,, That the various blanks be filled by the Chair with the number three. The President then stated, that, as it was ne- cessary he should know the names of gentle- men composing the different Agricultural So- cieties in the State, to enable him to make judi- cious appointments, the committees would not be appointed until the various societies had been heard from. Air. Johnson offered the lollowing resolution : Resolved, Thai the Corresponding Secretary write to the respective Agricultural Soeielies ot this State, informing them that their members are constituted members of this association, and that their respective-presidents are ex-officio Vice Presidents of the same; and that he re- quest the said societies to furnish him with a lull catalogue of their members, to the end that they may be entered on the records ot this asso- I ciation, in Ihe event of their being willing to I become members the r-eof — which was adopted, i The following resolution was also adopted : : Resolved, That we recommend to the several j societies cf this State, to take into consideration j the propriety ol recommending to the next Le- ! gislatufs an appropriation for the purpose of I procuring seed and grains of various kinds from I different countries, tor distribution among the various Agricultural Societies, and lo report the result ol such deliberation to the next annual meeting of this association. The Association then adjourned sine die. George V/. CR.iWFOKD, Presidreni. Benj. T. Bethune, Recording Secretary, Cobb County Agricultural Societyo Pursuant to a pre^rious notice, a large and very respectable portion of ffne citizens of Cobb assembled at the Court House in Marietta, on the 25ih ult., with the view ol organising an Agri- cultural Association. On motion. Hardy Pace and James Lemon, Esq’s., were called to the chair, and Andrew J. Hansell, Esq., requested to act as Secretary. The mee'.ing was first addressed by Hon. John A. Jones, a delegate to the Convention about to assemble in the cjty ot Aiilledgeville and en route rjo that point, in a highly interesting speech. H. R. Foot, Esq., was next called oui, who ably discussed the propriety ot an efficient organization of such a society, and the impera- tive necessity of an agricultural education. Jas. Lemon, Esq., one of the Chairmen, made an appeal to his fellow farmers ot Cobb. Col. Chas. F. Ai. Garnett, from the Commit- teeto draft a constitution, &c., reported a con- stitution, which was unanimously adopted. The constitution was then signed by a number of cur citizens; and on motion of Col. Garnett, the Society then proceeded to the election of its officers tor the present year. On counting out the ballots, it appeared that the follownggentle- men were unanimously chosen ; C. J. AIcDonald, President. Vice-Presidents — H. Pc. Foote, Satn’l. Young, vVm. Harris, T. Al. Kirkpatrick, Jas. S. Bul- loch, Jas. Lemon, Hardy Pace. William P. Young, Treasurer, Andrew J. Hansell, Secretary, pcntfiteMK] 78 THE SOUTHERN CUT.TIVATOR. On motion, Resolved, That Maj. Wm. Y. Hansel), be and is hereby appointed onr dele- gate to the approaching Agricultural Conven- tion, to be holden in the city of Milledgeville, on Monday the 3lst ulr,, and requested to represent our Society in that body, which was unanimous- ly agreed to. ' On motion the Society then adjourned, sub- ject to the call of the executive committee. Hardy Pace, ^ A. J, Han'sell. Sec. Jas. Lemon, (| Agricultural Society. The Barbour County Agricultural Society met in the Town Hall, Eufaula, Ala., on the 13th Marchj the President, Col. McDonald, in the chair, John Gill Shorter, Esq., Secretary, pro tern. The committee appointed last meeting to re- vise the constitution of the society, reported a substitute, which was adopted. John A. Calhoun, Esq., Dr. C. Battle, and B. Gardner, Esq., were appointed a committee to dratt by laws lor the society, and to report the same to the next meeting. Standing committees, to examine and report on crops, horticulture and improvement in me- chanism, were appointed by the President, as follows : To examine crops below Eufaula, Gen. R. C. Shorter, Mr. Wm. Abney, Mr. John W. Raines. To examine crops above Eufaula on the river. Major Thomas Flourno}'-, Dr. C. Battle, Mr. A. McGehee. To examine crops on the Barbour Creek, Mr. William DeWitt, Mr. James Tucker, Mr. Treadwell. To examine crops on the Cowikee Creek, John A. Calhoun, Esq., Dr. A. P. Crawlbrd, Gen. Wm Wellborn. Committee on Horticulture, John Gill Shor- ter, Esq,, Mr. Wm. S. Paullin, Dr. William H. Thornton. Committee on Mechanic arts, Z. J, Daniel, Esq., Mr. E. C. Holleman, Mr. W. Archer. Messrs. B. Gardner, J. G. L. Martin and Thor. Cargile, were appointed a committee to select a suitable person to address the society at its next meeting. On motion, it was ordered that the President also appoint four persons todiscu'^s, at the next meeting, the following question; “What are the benefits to be cleriyed Irom Agricultural So- cieties 1” Messrs. Buford, He.’nphill, Calhoun and J. G. Shorter were appointed debaters. A letter from Dr. Richan'dson, to the Presi- dent, wms read, on the culture of cane.and the manufacture of segars, and a sample of sugar raised by Dr. R. in Barbour county, shown to the society. The society then adjourned to meet again in the Town Hall on the' second Wednesday in May, the day of the Horticultural fair. A. McDonald, President. John Gill Shorter, Secretary pro tem. Agricultural Meeting. In pursuance of a previous notice a meeting ot the Barbour County Agricultural Society was held in Glenville on the 22\ inst , when, on motion of Major Deriard, Col. A. McDonald was called to the chair, and George D. Conner was requested to act as Secretary pro. tem. The Chair explained the intention of the meeting to be, to submit to the consideration of the citizens of Glennville, a hearty co-operation with the Barbour County Agricultural Society in its objects to improve and develope ourfarm- ing resources, and of giving them the opportu- nity ot adopting the new' constitution ot the So- ciety, which was then read. On motion of Dr. Richardson, the constitution was adopted by a unanimous vote; an opportunity was then given for the admission of members under the constitution, and twenty-two additional names were announced. The following gentlemen were appointed com- mittees to examine crops and their condition, &c. in the vicinity during the ensuing season, and report at the next regular meeting of the Society. 1. On the Cowikee Creek, Dr. Dubose, Col. Sanford and Massalon Glenn. 2. On the Hachachubee Creek, Dr. Richard- son, Major Denard and J. B. Baird. 3, In Browder’s neighborhood, M. A. Brow- der, Malachi Ivey and Nathaniel Roach. 4, Glennville neighborhood, W. H. Owens, Dr. J. G. Byrd and Richard T. Morrison. Committee on Horticulture, Dr. George D. Conner, A. S. Glenn, J. G. Conner, Thomas Denard and Dr. Flake. Maj. Dent and Col. Ott were appointed a com- mittee to examine the crops on the upper part of the South Cowikee, with power to appoint some other farmer to act with them. After the regular business of the meeting had been disposed of, the President entertained the meeting in an appropriate manner, in explain- ing his views on the importance of well organ- ized societies ; their importance at the present time of the depressed price of cotton; the ad- vantage of patronizingagricultural papers ; the expediency of devoting special attention to the quality as w'ell as quantity of our chief staple. The address abounded with most excellent sug- gestions relative to a well regulated system of farming, and was delivered with a zeal worthy of the occasion. It was listened to with inter- est, that gave evidence that it was highly appre- ciated by a larger meeting than common on such occasions. Fifteen dollars were immediately handed in by way of a commencement in getting up a Fair next fall. Glennville, Ala., March 22, 1845. Breaking Young Cattle. The people of New England, and none more than those ot Massachusetts, have always been celebrated for the breeding and management of oxen, and as the following plan, from the pen of Mr. Buckrninsler, the enlightened editor of the Massachusetts Ploughman, appears to us to contain much good sense and sound philosophy, we commend it to our readers: “ It is sport, rare sport, for boys to yoke young steers, and fret them, till they are tame; and tire them down, till they are tame; to whip them hard for obbtinacy--for moving too fast or too slow. Boys will teach them a bushel of tricks sooner than a peck of good manners. Boys must not handle steers till they have been han- dled by men ; and men have not all philosophy enough to make steers kind and obedient. There is not so much risk lun in breaking steers as in tutoring colts. The ox is so patient he “ will endure all things,” even ill tutoring. In the yoke, in the centre of a strong team, he must go, will ye nil ye, and in time he w'ill think it piudent to draw a moderate load rather than feel the Issb or the goad. But what a vast difference you find between oxen that have been properly broken and such as have loosely “ borne the yoke in their youth,” and had their ow'n way at a hill or in the mire? Gan they back a loaded cart, or will they know your voice at a plow ? Ill tutored oxen will fail you in your utmost need. They are as bad as untrained men at the raising of a broad side of a barn ; they never draw even, and one is not ready to put forth his strenvih till his yoke fellow has exhausted all his store. Then you leave your loaded sled in the woods and go for the mare ; or you unlade a part and hie home in a pel. Oxen should never know but that they can draw any load you put them to, and they will never suspect it under a perfect teamster. He will never let them draw w'hen he finds the load quite too heavy, and by crying out to them to stop when they cannot go he persuades them that they are stopped by his command alone. Steers may be yoked at a very early age. When it is convenient, shut them up in a shed or strong pen, and gently place a light voke on them there. Do not attempt to force them to march now, but wail till they have becon'e used to this burthen. Feed them with something a little better than every day fodder, and satisfy them that you intend no harm. If your shed is large, it will be prudent to pass a rope around the hind part of their bodies to prevent their turning their yoke upside down, and making the near one the off ox. A rope will prevent this, for it will keep their hips as near to each other as their necks are. Some tie their tails together for this purpose; but a rope is better. When your steers have become a little used to the yoke, you can put a chain on and let them be used to the clanking of the link.s. Chain them fast to a post in your shed, and let them feel that this front chain and the yoke are stron-' ger than they are. They may stand lor half a day chained fast, and you need to look to them only occasionally. Now you should unyoke gently and let them have their liberty, evidently by your own con-' sent. On the morrow, yoke them again in the same place and with the same care. Then yoke up your oxen, and driving to the shed, make fast your steers to the oxen instead of the post. Let the whole four stand awhile, that the steers may see no harm is intended. Soon you may urge them forward close after the oxen, and without using a whip. Let them follow round and round the yard, chained to the oxen, never putting them to draw till they have learned to follow without fear. Alter this exercise you can bring a light sled, or a pair of wagon wheels and tongue, and gently fasten your steers on this tongue. Let all St. nd a few minutes ; then move forward gent- ly, not to terrify the young fellows too much on finding a moving pole between them, and a pair of rolling wheels behind. Keep them in gear four or five hours to-day, having a rope on the horn of the nigh one to make both follow direct- ly after the oxen. In this way you can use your steers to follow your oxen without striking a single blow. For the only cause ot obstinacy which we so often find in steers, is ignorance and fear. They know not what you would have, they fear giving of- fence, and they will prefer your lashing and beating to any motion they can make. You know this is the case, for, unyoked, you can drive one, or two, or a dozen, through any part of your field, and no one thinks it advisable to stand and endure the lash in preference to moving. But you must teach your steers to lead as well as to follow your oxen. This requires skill, to prevent bad habits. When first put to lead they will incline to run from you, unless you have a rope on the near horn. But you will soon habitu- ate them, if you avoid beating, io march straight forward; and they v/ill suffer you to advance and come to their heads without attempting to sheer off', if they find you friendly. In a snow path you will find it moie easy to make them tractable thin in a plow field. It is quite important that young cattle should be loaded so light that they can overcome all ob- structions without great effort. They should not suspect that any load can stop them. If they have not been set, and whipped, and bothered, by vicious teamsters, you will find them ambi- tious to do all in their power for you on rising a hill, or in miry carting. You will command their whole stiength without striking a blow, and you will be more sure of getting out of the mire than by the use of all the whips you can command. But yourcattle will not go ; nor will they stop when you desire, unless you use good language to them; not Greek, or Latin, or Hebrew, but good plain English. You may use the Hebrew well enough, provided vou understand it, and provided you alone are to be the driver. But if you do not; or if you intend that others, who know nothing but English, shall drive your oxen occasionally, you will find the “English Tongue” the “Only SureGuide,” as Perry said of his spelling book, when it treated of that tongue. THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 79 Those who have heard the language of va- rious drivers will not think this an unimportant rule. Oxen must be more knowing than lads in Greek to get a clear idea from the sounds ma le in their ears, by their uncivil drivers. The same rigmarole, harum scarum, Ai, hoi, whoi, who-hay, is used whether the team is to move or to stop— to haw or to gee— to keep quick time or to back the load ; and the astonished ox— the mlive ox— must wait till the goad ■quickens his ideas, or till the butt end of the handle on his nose has planted the seed for a wen, to disfigure his face, cause him pain, and shorten his life. Should not the doctrine of Iransmigralion be taught to cruel masters? Who would thus abuse an oz it he himself is to take his turn in the yoke and under the goad-stick I’’ Horticultural Outliii€. AN OUTLINE of the first principles 0-f Horticulture, by John Lindley, F R S. &c. &c., Professor of Bota- ny in the University of London, and assistant Secre- tary of the Horticultural Society.— [continued.] V. LEAVES. 126. Leaves are expansions of bark, travers- ed by veins. 127. The veins consist of spiral vessels en- closed in woody fibre; they eriginale in the medullary sheath and liber; and they are con- nected by loo.se parenchyma (7) which is full of cavities containing air. 128. This parenchyma consists of two layers, ■of which the latter is composed of cellules pei- pendicular to the cuticle, and the lower of cel- lules parallel with the cuticle. 129. These cellules are arranged so as to leave numerous open passages among them lor the circulation of air in the inside of a leaf. Pa- renchyma of this nature is called cavernous. 139. Cuticle is formed of one er more layers <3t depressed cellular tissue, which is generally 2aardened, and always dry and filled with air. 131. Between many ot the cells of 'the cuticle are placed apertures called stowjute, which have the power of opening and closing as c-lrcum- stances may require. 132. It is by means of this apparatus that Leaves elaborate the sap which they absorb from the alburnum, converting it into the secretions peculiar to the species. 133. Their cavernous structure (129) enables them to expose the greatest possible surface of 'their parenchyma to the action of the atmos- phere. 134. Their cuticle is a non-conducting skin, which protects them from great variations in temperature, and through which gaseous matter will pass readilv. 13.5. Their stomata are pores that are chiefly intended to facilitate evaporation; tor which they are well adapted by a power they possess of opening or closing as circumstances ma}^ re- quire. 136. They are also intended tor facilitating the rapid emission of air, when it is necessary that such a function -should be performed. 137. The functions of .stomata being of such vital importance, it is always advisable to ex- amine them microscopically in cases where ■doubts are entertained of the state of the atmos- phere which a particular species may require. 138. Leaves grov/ing in air are covered with a cuticle. 139. Leaves growing under water have no cuticle. 140. All the secretions of plants being formed in the Leaves, or at least the greater part, it4ol- lows that secretions cannot lake place if Leaves are destroyed. 141. And as this secreting property depends upon specific vital powers with the decomposi- tion of carbonic acid, and called into action only when the leaves are freely exposed to light and air (279,) it follows that the quantity of secretion will be in direct proportion to the quan- tity of Leaves, and to their free exposure to light and air. 142. The usual position of leaves is spiral, at regularly increasing or diminishing distances; :Shey are then said to be alternate. 143. But if the space, or the axis, that sepa- rates two leaves, is reduced to nothing at alter- nate intervals, they become opposite. 144. And if the spaces that separate several Leaves be reduced tc nothing, they become ver- ticillate. 14.5. Opposite and verticillate Leaves, there- fore, differ from alternate Leaves, only in the spaces that separate them being reduced to nothing. From the Maine Cullivator. How to make Soap. Messrs. Editors — If you think the tollowiiig article worthy of an insertion in your valuable paper, it is at your servi:e. I have seen a great many well written aniejeson Agriculture, Cook- ery, &c. &c , but as I do not recollect of seeing any thing written on “ making Soap,” I will give you the tollowing, which is the result of years of experience : First, setup your tub as usual, with sticks and straw, and then put your lime (slaked) on the straw to the depth of three or four inches — then take a long stick that wilt come a few inches above the top of the tub— wind a hay rope around the stick, nearly its whole length — let the stick go through the tub two or three inches, then you can draw your ley without putting your hands into it underneath. Put your grease into the kettle, and turn in about two quarts (or enough to cover the bottom of the kettle) of your strong- est ley. Boil a few minutes, then turn in a littie more ley, and c mtinue to turn in as the ley boils over, until your kettle is about two thirds or three quarters full, when you can fill up the kettle, and after skimming the contenis well, dip out and empty it into the barrel. Put in two pounds Ro- sin to one barrel Soap. If your ley is of sufficient strength, you will be sure to have good Soap.' I have heard people complain a great deal thatihey ■did not have “good luck’’ in making Soap. Their ashes were not good or not made from good wood, or something or other. But if the above directions are carefully followed, I can assure them that they will have no reason to complain of “ poir luck,” or any thing of the kind. N.*B. — Clear grease does riot require more than ten minutes boiling, but where there are bones, it takesdonger time. Some people put lime in the in ddle of the cask or tub, but the main use of lime is to strain the ley, and make it pure — therefore it should be put on the top of the straw at the bottom of the tub. An Old Hand. Grey, February 2Qth, 1.845. From lh.e Bostotr Cullivalor. Grinding Grain for Animals. The trouble and expense of grinding or crush- ing grain for animals, are generally much less than the saving that is made by this operation. Most animals eat their_ food, especially that which they prefer, rathergreedily, and llequent- iy swallow down grain without chewing or even cracking; this pa.sses the animal without digestion, as is eV'ident to any observer vrhohas the care of stock, and fowls often live well upon the grain that thus escapes decomposition ; and where such grain is suffered to remain in the manure, it is often seen growing luxuriantly, a living evidence ot the waste in such a mode of feeding. Economy is ef the highest importance in eve- ry department of rural affairs. Some farmers may say that they cannot afford the trouble and expense of grinding grain. Then, of course, they cannot afford to pursue a more expensive way ol feeding. As a matter of convenience many persons feed grain whole, without exam- ining the subject, or once thinking how much they lose by it. Let such reflect a littie, and they may be disposed to try the effect of ground food and judge of the result from experience. Grain has growm after passing through the stomachs of horses, cattle and hogs. Sheep grind theirfood better; and fowls swallow coarse gravel, which, in the gizzard, servesthe purpose of mill-siones, in grinding grain and other hard food, to powder, and the gravel is ground in turn, and its place supplied by a fresh lot. Besides the saving ol grain by grinding, as appears from its being better digested, as well as Irom numerous experiments, it is evidently bel- ter for the health of animals to have such food as will be readily digested, requiring less labor in this process, according to the views ot a shrewd farmer who dismissed a hand who was a great eater, as he observed, it would require all his strength to digest his food. At some of the agricultural warehouses are machines forgrindinggrain, which may be ope- rated by a man or boy; and in the winter sea- son, labor can frequently be applied to this pur- pose with very little inconvenience. One hour in this way, in a more leisure season, may save two hours in raising grain, in the busy time of planting, haying or harvesting. •From the Boston Cultivator. Seed Wheat. Meosr-s. Editors: — We are told, that, in the Island of Jersey, (England,) where the faimers sell produce and live upon the refiise, it is customary for them to tie their vrheat in small sheaves, and by striking each twice or thrice across a barrel while lying on its side on the floor, a superfine sample of wheat is obtained for market, alter which the sheaves are thrown by, to be clean thrashed in the evening.s of win- ter by lamp MglH. I have just met wi.h the account ol a farmer in Vermont, to Vv^hom his neighbors resorted for the purpose of securing seed wheat of superior quality; very fine in appearance, remarkably productive and of early maturity; he readily commanded three dollars per bushel, when the price of wheat was a dollar and a quarter, call- ing it the red and gennine Ean-d wheaA. But the secret was at last discovered; he used, be- fore thrashing his wheat, to select the best sheaves, and striking them over the side of an ■ empty barrel as it lay on the floor, three or four times before laying them down to be clean thrashed, he obtained in this very simple way a very S'uperior seed, wheat, which the whole county coveted at a double price. Thus the largest and ripest kernels were separated and collected without labor or difficulty, and a pro- fitable busine.ss was carried on, until his neigh- bors discovered how to make “ Barrel wheat” for themselves. Edmund Lawrence. Newark, N. J. Valuable and Simple Medicine. — When food is taken that causes oppression, the best remedy is hot vrater in which the rind of old cheese has been grate.!, to be drank freely. This simple remedy ought to be in the possession of every family, as it will generally afford speedy relief. Some filty years since, a young lady died in thisdown from tbe effect of eating fruit. A post mortem examination was had, and some experiments were made; nothing was found to have so good an operation upon the contents of the stomach as the grated cheese rind. Soon after another lady was placed in a similar dan- gerous situation from the same cause. Her medical attendant pre.seribed the above remedy, and immediately relief was obtained. The me- dicine became popular with the past generation, and a lady of that age wishes n.s to publish it to this and siicc'eeding generations. — Pertsmouth Journal, Dressing Wounds and Ulcers. — Dr. Lan- gier’s new method consists in applying on the surface of the wound or ulcer a solution of gum arable, and on it a bit of goldbeater’s skin; thus dressed, a tvound an inch in diameter was re- duced in the space of eight days to one-third or one-sixth of an inch in extent. Cicatrisation took place so rapidly that the granulations, covered with a thick epidermis, were as nume- rous and visible as before, but could be touched without causing pain. A wound produced by auiputatioD of the breast highly inflamed about four and a half inches in length, and one and a half in breadth, under this treatment healed rapidly, and purulent .secretion did not take place. He proposes applying this method to a wound loll by amputation of the thigh. — Medi- cal 'I lines. BKSSBsaegessasBi THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. Ornamental Gardening. COUTEHTS OF THIS 11U‘MBER. In Colman’s late writings on European agri- culture, we find the following: — “ The cultivation of flowers and shrubs and vines is a remarkable and prominent feature in the landscape of England^ and a circumstance which has given no little gratification to my na- tional pride, has been the profusion of Ame- rican plants, which are seen in the shrubberies and plantations and pleasure grounds, both pub- lic and private. Green-houses and conserva- tories are almost universal in the country where any thing like a garden exists ; and the better class of houses surrounded and adorned with a great variety of fiowering shrubs and plants, presenting through the season a charming suc- cession of gay and brilliant ornaments. Even the laborer’s humble cottage, too seldom, I am compelled to admit, any ihing but a picturesque object, will occasionally have its ornamental shrubs adorning its doorway, and the ivy hang- ing its beautiful tresses over its window, form-r ing as it were a mirror sed, in a frame of the richest green. The village of Marr, in York- shire, not far from Doncaster, and the village of Edensor, in Derbyshire, near Chatsworth, and the village of Lord Brownlow,in Lineolnshiie, the best built, and by far th ; handsomest vil- lages I have yet seen in England, to cottages of an excellent and picturesque construeiiun, add those beautiful rural embellishments of vines and shrubs and flowers, and at the first sight compel a reflecting mind to admit the moral in- fluence of .such arrangements upon the charac- ter and manners of their inhabitants. “ 1 have said and written a great deal to my countrymen about the cultivation of fl'owers, ornamental gardening and rural embellishments; and I would read them a homily on the subject every day of every remaining year of my life, if I thought it would induce them to make this a matter of particular attention and care. When a man asks me what is the'use of shrubs and flowers'? my first impulse is always io look un- aerhis hal and see the^length of his ears. I am heartily sick of measuring every thing by a stan- dard of mere utility and j'rofit; and as heartily do I pity the. man who can see no good iu life but in the pecuniary gain, or in the mere ani- mal indulgencies of eating and drinking.’^’ ORIGINAL PAPERS. Alpaca, the — Shepherd’s Dog pages 73, 74 Agricultural Press, the pege 72 Agricultural Education “ 74 Bread Stuffs — A Contrast “ 75 Bermuda Grass. “ 76 Correspondents “ 72 Cana Fanner buy ‘his meat cheaper than he can make it at home! “ 75 Fair of the Bowling Green Agricultural Society, List of premiums “ 77 More Rasping. .. “ 72 Manure, Bommer method of making “ 76 Plowing, subsoil..... “ 73 “ deep “ 74 Silk 72,76 SELECTIONS, EXTRACTS, &C. Agricultural Life, Washington’s opinicm of. . . . .page 69 “ Convention, Farmers’ “ 77 “ Society, Cobb county “ 77 “ Society, Barbour county “ 78 “ Meeting “ 78 Butter, difficulty in churning “ 67 “ Buckeye mode of making “ 67 Corn-stalk Sugar — directions for cultivating ing the corn-stalks and making sugar “ 66 Catlle, breaking young 78 Fruilinlhe Family “ 68 Fruit, encouragement to raise “ 69 Gardening, ornamental “ 80 Grinding Gram for Animals “ 79 Horticultural Outline..' “ 79 Indigo “ 68 Kindness (o Animals 67 Lighthing and Manure “ SO Manures, remarks on — The popular opinion of their sinking controverted “ 70 Manures, saving “ 71 Manure, making compost “ 70 Manure, translation by H. Meigs relative to. .. . “ 70 Pork, deficiency in supply for 1S44 “ 76 Rust in Wheat, to prevent “ 71 Soils — necessily of supplying with tue con- ,, stituenTsof the crops grown on 68 Soap, how to make “ 79 Tobacco, mode of cultivating in the Island of Cuba.... ;.. 65 Tanning on the Plantation “ 65 Tea, nutritive qualilfes of “ 69 Valuable and Simple Medicine “ 77 Wounds and Ulcers, dressing “ 79 Wool “ 69 Wheat, Seed .' “ 79 Yellow Locust, for fences “ 66 A PKEMfUM. The Publishers of the “SOUTHERN GUIjTIVATOR,” propose to give to every man who shall procui'e TEN subscribers, and enclose a ten dollar bill, the two back \ olumes of the work, handsomely bound. Lightning and Manure. — The U. S. Gazette say.s, it has been discovered in England that electricity, real lightning, conducted by wire to the earth, greatly promotes vegetation, and hence many persons are enriching their grounds by this new stimulant. We hope good will come of it. This generation is certainly fulfilling its destiny. It is becoming the “ utilitarian age” ■with a vengeance, which brings down from the clouds the lightning of heaven (eripuit fulmen) to manure the corn fields, subSlituling Jove’s dread lightnings forstable manure. The guano trade will be broken up entirely, and a te.mpes- tuous season, with vivid lightning, will be worth forty muck heaps and stable yards. And yet it is probably true, that lightning can be made to promote vegetation ; that it can be conducted to the required spot, and made sub- servient to the desired object — and if so, man has another cause of gratitude to the giver; for he may now lay his head upon the main light- ning, and render it not only innocuous, but di- rectly and visibly useful. Let him, in the use of the element, not forget Him, “ Whose hand the lighi iiing forms, Who heaves old Ocean, and who wings the storms.” GAISeE.N ANS> FIEtiO SEEUS. A GENERAL assortment of fresh and genu- ine Garden and Field Seed, among which are the foil owing : Red and white clover. Blue and green grass. Rye and orchard do Timothy and herds do Millet and Lucerne do Seed corn of every valna- Buckwheat & potato oats. Seed wheat, [ble variety Kept constantly on hand by the subscriber, all of which are offered for sale at very moderate prices. All orders, by mail or otherwise, executed with neat ness and despatch. Wm UarNES, Jr., 1 No. 2-32, Broad-street, Augusta, Ga. 'S UJ2-NEP SEED. A SUPPLY of the following varieties of fresh Turnep Seed, just received, viz: Yellow •Sweedisb or ruta baga, very fine for stock, Large globe turnep, “ White fiat do “ Hanover or while rutabaga do Norfolk do J For sale in quantities to suit purchasers, by 1 Wm. Haines, Jr. 1 Fine for ^ table use. AGKBCUE'FDSS A3. I tIFEEMEN.TS. Hazard, delnslow & webster. Savannah, Geo., near the City Hotel, Dealers in PAINTS, OILS, WINDOW GLASS, GUNPOWDER, SHOT, PAPEP., AND AGRICULTURAL IMPLEMENTS. In audition to their usual stock of the abrrve named aiticles, the subscribers have, within the last year, made large additi_pns to their assortment of Agricul- tural Iinplenientsj and now offer to planters a greater variety than any other establishment in the Southern country; amongst which may be found the following articles, viz : PLOWS. Yankee cast iron, No. 10, 11 T2and20 Plows. Dagon, or Conneclicut'wrought No. 1, 2 and 3 do Allen pattern, do Boggles, Nourse A Mason’s improved do Viz;— Eagle plow, heavy., two horse or ox, do do with wheel and cutler, do No. 2 B Plow, for two horses, do ‘t 2 B do with wheel and cutter, do “ A 3 do medium, two horse, do “ A3 do wiih wheel aud culler, do “ A 2 do light two horse do “ A I do do one mule, or garden do “ bin. do do one horse turning do “ 7 in. do do do do do “ 15 d'-) new pattern, 1 horse, for light soil, do Subsoil do heavy, two horse, or ox do do do No, 1 do do . . do do do do 0 one horse 'Uflo Double mould-board or furrowing do Cotton trenching do Rice do with guage -.A-heel, do A 1 side-hill, or swivel mould-board, do No. 0 do do for one horse, do Flow irons set up. of tlie above kinds ; also, extra stocks, which can be packed in small compa.«s, thereby making a great saving in transportation. Mould-boards, points and heels or landsides, for all the above plows. Improved cultivators, with guage wheel Cultivator plctvs, or horse hoes. Common Harrows Folding do improved kind, Boxed lever straw cullers Improved self-feeding strew and corn stalk do, with spiral knives, simple in construction. Corn aud cob crushers (hand mill) do do for horse power HOES. VV. A. Lyndon’s extra black,Carolinahoes,Nos. 0. 1,2 & 3 do bright do do 0. 1,2&3 do ijewground do doPP&PPP do oval eye grubbing do do 2&3 do round do do do 2&3 Anchor hoes do 00, 0, 1 & 2 Brades, patent do . doO, 1,2, 3&4 LighlYankee do CHAINS. Straight-link trace chains, I Ox chains Twisted do do | l.og chains from iO to-18'f’t MISCEILANEOUS ARTICLES. Collins’s- Axes. Ox-bows, Root’s do Horse rackets, King’s do Dirt scrapers. Bond’s do Fan mills, Ames’s Shovels, ' Patent churns, do Handled Spades, Cotton foot gins, do Socket do Flails, Iron Shovels.ass’ted kinds. Axe-helves, Long Handled Shovels, Swingletrees, Manure Forks, Plow lines, Hay do Wheelbarrows, English patent Scythes, , Horticultural chests, American grass do , Pruning shears, Grass platt do Ditching knives, Brush and briar do Garden hoes, vaiiouskinds, Briar hooks, Garden raKes, Corn cutters, ’ Flour-scrapers, Reaphooks, ! Toy hoes, Scythe Siiaiths, ; Garden reels, Grain cradles, new pattern, Transplanting trowels, Rice cradles do I do Forks, Post spoons, I (3arden-lines, Ox-yokes, i The subscribers have made such arrangements as will enable them to procure any improvements which may be made in the plow, or other kinds of implements suit- ed to this section, and trust from their great variety, mo- derate prices and exertions to please, ihey may receive a liberal share of public patronage. Planters, mer- chants, and manufacturers are respectfully invited to examine their stock. Orders thankfully received and prornptly attended to. 1-ly ISOITIRIEK K5ANERE. The bommer method of making Manure has been before the public in the Northern, Eastern and Middle Slates, v here it has met with the approval of the ablest, scientific and practical agricuK turalists, and received, after very thorough practical experiment, the sanction of the Legislature of Mary- land. Two years residence in the Southern States, en- ables the agent to declare that the abundance of cheap material at the South, renders the manufacture of this manure peculiarly adapted to the Southern planter. The right can he had on the following terms : — To Manure 100 acres land $10 “ “ 200 “ “ 15 “ 300 “ “ 20 Any extent 25 Address, Charles Baer, care of Wm. Byne, Waynes- boro, Ga., or care of J W. Jones, Augusta — post-paid. To correct all misapprehension with regard to the patent, the fallowing statement is submitted ; Charles Baer and .lohn Goui lart obtained letters pa- tent for the method, 24lh January, 1843, (Rec. Lib. 280 Patent office) and sold the fight to the Northern and Eastern States, to George Bommer. Afterwards, Baer and Gouliart took into the firm Thomas M. Abbott, and continued to sell the right to the (Southern and West- ern States, under the style of Abbott & Co, Abbbolt & Co assigned the right to the rest of the United States and Territories on the 6th November, 1844, (Rec. Lib. 5, page 373) to George Bommer, of whom the subscriber is the sole general agent in Georgia. 5 Charles Baer. Soutijern (EiiUitmtor Is published on the first of every month, at Augusta, Go, I w JL- « rONTtSi PunPRTF.TnRS. EDITED BY JAMES CAMAK, OF ATHENS, GA. TERMS -ONE DOLLAR A YEAR. 1 copy, one year oo I 2-5 copies, one year„.%%0 oo S copies, “ 3 00 I too copies, .. 7o 00 [All subscriptions must commence with the volume.] The Cash System will be rigidly adhered to, and In no case will the paper be sent unless the money accompanies the order. AnvERTrsEMENTs pertalnlngto Agriculture, will be in- serted for ONE dollar for every square of ten lines or less, for the first insertion, and seventy-five cents per square for each continuance. 1X1= Post Masters are authorized to receive and for- ward money free of postage. 1)3= All communications must be post paid, and a idvessed to JAMES CAMAK, Athens, Georgia. VoL. Ill AUGUSTA, GA., JUNE, 1845, No. 6, A BRfEF HISTORY OF THE SJI.K ' CUf.TCJRE IIV GEORGIA. By the Rev. William R. Stevens, of the University of Georgia. [From Harris’s Memorials of Oglethorpe.] One of the principal de.signs which influenced the settlement of Georgia, was the hope of there- l>y creating a silk-growing province, where that material, for which England had so long been in- debted to France, Italy and China, could be pro- duced in this colonial dependency. As early as 1609, the subject engaged the at- tention of the adventurers to Virginia, an i in a pamphlet, called “Nova Brlttania offering most excellent fruites by planting in Virginia,’’ pub- lished that year, the writer says: — “there are silke-wormes, and plenty of mulberie trees, whereby ladies, gentlewomen, and little children, (being set in the way to do it,) may bee all im- ploied with pleasure, making silke comparable to that of Persia, Turkey, or any other.’’ In 1650, Mr. Samuel Hartlib published a work enti- tled “ Virginia Discovery of Silk Wormes, with their Benefits,” in which he endeavored to show that the raising of silk was a thing very pra ;tica- ble in Virginia, and even asserted that as i sta- ple, it might be made superior to tobac ;o, in which opinion he was confirmed by the judg- ment of several others. That they made some advances in this culture, is evident from the fact that the coronation robe of Charles II., in 1660, was made of silk reeled in that colony, and even so late as 1730, three hundred pounds of the raw material were exported from Virginia. Tobacco, however, soon assumed and maintained the as- cendency, to the exclusion of this more useful and beautiful produce. j In 1703, Sir Nathaniel Johnson introduced the | silk culture into South Carolina, but the aston- 1 ishing success which rewarded the casual intro- | duction of rice into the plantation, about eight | years before, precluded a just interest in the un- j dertaking, and as a public and recognised com j modityit soon came to nought, though several | persons, more fur amusement than profit, still gave their attention to it; and as late as 1755, j Mrs. Pinckney, the same lady to whom the pro- | vince v/as indebted tor the first cultivation of in- j digo ten years before, reeled sufficient silk in the , vicinity of Charleston to make three dresses, one | of which was presented to the Princess Dowa- ! ger of Wales, another to Lord Chesterfield, and i the third, says Ramsay, who narrates the cir- I eumstance, “is now (1809) in Charleston in the { possession of her daughter, Mrs. Horrey, and is remarkable for its beauty, firmness and strength.” | But notwithstanding these failures and the known difficulty of introducing a new branch of agriculture into a country, as was evidence! by the compulsion which was necessary bv Henry IV. to introduce it into France, against the united voices of the merchants, traders, and even in op- position to the Duke of Sully, and also the in- difference manifested in England, notwithstand- ing the able proclamation of King James on the subject, commending its cultivation; the frus- tees for the settle nent of Georgia determined to make one moreelfort, which, if successful, would enrich both the province and the mother country. The views which thev entertained, how-ever, of making Georgia supplant every silk-gro ving country, were extravagant and erroneous; iliey expected, in fact, to supply all Europe, an 1 to produce an article of equal strength, beauty and value, with any made on the Continent. The Piedmontese, thought they, who pay half their silk for the rent of the mulberry trees an! the eggs of the worm, or the peasants of France, burdened with political difficulty and stinted for conveniences, could not cope with the settlers of Georgia, where the mulberry trees (morus al a) would grow m the greatest luxuriance, where timber for their fabrics was no expense, where room was abundant and the reward sure. By this transfer, in addition to a direct saving to England of over £500,000, which she paid for this article to foreign countries, twenty thousand people were to find employment in reaiing it in Georgia, and as many more at home in prepar- ing it for market Among the first emigrants who sailed with Oglethorpe from England in November, 1732, was Mr. Amatis, from Piedmont, who was en- gaged by the 'i’rustees to intioduce the art of silk-winding into the colony, and w’ho, for that purpose, brought wuth him several Italians and some adequate machinery. White mulberry trees were planted in a portion of land on the eastern border of the city, called the Trustee’s garden ; eggs were hatched, and silk spun “ as fine as any from France or Italy.” They soon, however, came to a mutual rupture, and the whole process was for a time suspended by the treachery of those employed, who broke the machijiery, spoil- ed the seed, destroyed the trees, and then escap- ed to Carolina. Sufficient, however, had been wrotight to test its value, and they were not dis- couraged by this inauspicious commencement. The Trustees still adhered to their design, and the more effectually to advance it, required of eveiy settler that there should be on his grant, ten mulberry trees to each acre. Mr. Cainiise and his wife, both Italians, svith their two children, and two other individuals, were now entrusted with this business, in which they were continued six years; the two first at a sa- lary of £60 per annum, and the four last at £100, besides the rent of a dwelling house and garden. In June, 1734, Gen. Oglethorpe carried eight pounds of raw silk, the first produced in Geor- gia, to England, which was followed by a small trunk full of the same article, on the 2d of April, 1735, and after being made into orgazlne bv the engine of Sir Thomas Lombe, at Derby, who said that it “nroved exceedingly good thro’ .all the operations,” was sent up to London on the 14th of August, 1735, when the Trustees, to- gether with Sir Thomas Lombe, waited on her Majesty Queen Caroline, and exhibited to her the elegant specimen of Georgia silk. The Queen selected a portion of this parcel to be wove into a pattern, and being again waited on by these gentlemen and iMr. Booth, the silk weaver, on the 2lst of September, she expressed “ a great satisfaction for the beauty and fineness of the silk, the richness of the pattern, and at seeing so early a product from that colony ;” and to express her pleasure at such a favorable result, a comidete court dr ss was made from it, and on His Ma- jesty’s next birth day, she appeared at the levee in a full robe of Georgia silk. On the return of Oglethorpe, in 1735, he re- newed his endeavors to bring it into active opera- tion. For the purpo'-'e of obtaining a sufficient quantity of seed, he allowed no silk t) be reeled that year, but let the worms depo.-it their eggs. He required, also, that the Italian women should teach a nutnberof the colonists, and thus render general the knowledge they could impart. The Salfzburgers atEbenezer were the most forward to adopt his views, and in March 28. 1736, Rev. Mr. Bolzius gave one tree to each inhabitant as a present from Oglethorpe, and two of his con- gregation were instructed in the art of reeling, by .Virs. Camuse. B it though Oglethorpe gave Mr. Bolzius trees, silk worms, and a bo -k of in- structions, yet he confesses ihat he felt no inter- est in the business, nor inclination to pursue it. In July, 1739, fllr. Samuel A ugspourger carried over a parcel of raw silk which he received from Mr. Jones, the Trustee’s store keeper in Savan- nah, and which was declared by eminent judges to be “ equal to any Italian silk, and worth lull twenty shillings per pound.” On May 11, 1741, Mr, Bolzius in his journal states that twenty girls, during the last two months, succeeded in making seventeen pounds of cocoons, which were sold on Friday last at Savannah for £3 8s. During this year. General Oglethorpe advanced to Bolzius £5, for procur- ing trees, for which sum he obtained twelve hun- dred, and distributed twenty-two to each family in his parish. On May 1. 1742, fourteen pounds and fourteen ounces were sold, which brought £2 19s. fid. Nearly half of the silk worms died at Savannah, owing, as was then supposed, either to poisoned dew or warm weather. December 4, 1742, General Oglethorpe .=enr five hundred trees to Ebenezer, with the promise ol more if required. The indifference of the good Mr. Bolzius had by this time passed away, and he was now a zealous advocate for its exten- sion. A machine was erected near his house, and two women succeeded very well, by which the people were stimulated to renewed exertions, and a public Filature was contemplated. The enterprise of these Germans, seemed to excite the envious disposition of Mrs. Camuse, with whom had been placed two women from Ebene- zer; but the conduct of Mrs. C. in withholding inforriialion, rendered their acquirement inade- quate, and Mr. Bolzius wuthdrew them from her charge. The first parcel of silk made, was sent to trie Trustees, who expressed themselves pleas- ed with its quality. In 1745, the weight of co- coons w'as two hundred and fifty-three poi nds, and of s,,un silk sixteen and three quarters. In 1746, the weight of cocoons was three hundred and forty-four pounds, and of ?pun silk eighteen pounds. Early in this year a machine fur wind- ing, and coppers for baking, together with ap- propriate treatises on the art, w’ere sent over by the Trustees, but the people were indifferent and apathetic. The Germans, however, were as active as for- merly, and Mr. Bolzius, in a letter to Von Munch, dated May 6, 1747, says, that “the people last winter planted more mulberry trees than for thir- teen years before,” for which he promised them a bounty of one shilling for every tree which yielded one hundred pounds of leaves. The silk balls raised at this place this year, were over four hundred pounds, three husdred and sixty-six pounds of w'hlch sold for £36 12s. lOJd. The amount raised in the whole colony, was eight hundred and forty-seven pounds of cocoons, and sixty two pounds of spun silk. In 174?, the Saltzburgers reared four hundred and sixiy-four pounds, but their small tices were destroyed, and some of the larger ones injured, by the late frost. Thev this year succeeded admirably in spinning twenty-four pounds of raw silk, the want of a chimney and proper basins, which had impeded them before, in their rude building, having bten remedied. The President, writing to Secretaiy Martyii, December 11, 1746, says : “The funda- mental cause of its stagnation, is the unaccount- able backwardness of si me of our dames ar.d damsels to employ themselves in attending to the worms during the time of feeding, which I have frequently taken notice of, and it cannot be im- puted to the want of Raves.” During the same period only thirty-four pounds of spun silk were raised by the Trustees’ agent in Savannah. Mr. Bolzius, under date of Feb- ruary 15th, 1749, thus writes : “The weather be- ing now warm and pleasant, the mulberry trees have put forth their young leaves, and our people are now turning their minds towards makfi g of silk,” and then, after expressing his surprise that so lew w^re di-sposed to this culture, adds ; “one reason for this reluctance, is ascribed to the circumstance that, by ordinary labor, about two shillings might be obtained per day, whereas scarcely a shilling could be earned in the same time by the silk concern.” Sseven hundred and 6i.?ty-tvvo pounds of cocoons were raised, and fifty pounds thirteen ounces spun si'k. and there were two machiaes erected in Mr. Bolzius’s yard which drew off twenty-four ounces per day. On the ‘29th September, 17 19, the Trustees promised £2 to every woman who shall make herself mis- tress of the art ol winding in one year. And they also gave Rev. Mr. Bolzius permission to erect ten sheds, with c ay furnaces, at an e.vpense of not more than £2 each, ana ten machines for reeling, at thirty shillings each, which he says could be made I'etter than those at Savannah for £3 ; they also sent them ten basins, and the good Germans felt the impulse of this substantial en- couragement. In 1750, though the people in otherparis of the colony mostly relinquished the silk culture, the inhabitants of Ebenezer contin- ued vigorously employed and interested in it. — On the 2d of June they received ten kettles Irom the Trustees, one of w'hich, and a reeling ma- chine, were uiven to each mistress in the art of spinning, and two of the best artisans received £5 for giving instruction to fourteen young wo- men, to each f whom was bestowed £1, for at- tention and industry. Over a thousand pounds of cocootts were rais- ed at Ebenezer, and seventy-four pounds two ounces raw silk made, producing (the price being then thirty shillings) over £110 sterling. A.s il- lustrative of the luxuriant growth of the mulberry, it may be interesting to state that two trees in front of the parsonage, ten years old, measured three feet eight inches in circumference. In De- cember of this year, eight more copper basins were received, and public confidence in the suc- cess of the undertaking seemed revived, notr'ith- standing Mr. Camuse and family had left the Province, and settled at Purysburgh in South Carolina. On the 25th December, 1750, M-r. Pickering Robinson, who, together with Mr. .lames Hab- ersham, had been appointed the preceding August a Commissioner to promote more effectually the culture of silk, arrivedin Savannah. Mr. Robinson had been sent to France, at the expense of the Trustees, to study the manage- ment of filatures and .the necessary process for preparing the ardcle for market, and thus, though no operative, was qualified t j take the director- ship of so important a branch of industry- His salary was £100 per annum, £25 for a clerk, and a tract of land was also granted hi.m, which, in 1763, sold for£lS0Q. Mr. Robinson brought with him a quantity of silk worm seed, but all failed, save about half an ounce; the Commissioners determined at once to erect a filature, which should be a normal school to the whole prounce, and it was their opinion that it would be “ a sufficient nursery to supply, in three or four years, as many reelers as will be wanted, when we make no doubt of many private filatures being eree'ed, which can only make their culture a general staple ” The dimensions were thirty-six feet by twenty, rough boarded, with a loft or upper story, for the spread- ing out of the green cocoons. 1 1 was commenc- ed on the 4th of March, 1751. On the ist of April, the basins were put up, and on the Sth of May the reeling began. To encourage the colo- nists, the Trustees proposed to purchase all the balls, and wind them at their own expense, and paid from Is. 6d. to 23. 4d. per pound for green cocoons. The Commissioners separated the co- coons into three sorts: Ist, pofect cones; 2d, the spungy and fuzzy; and 3d, the spotted, stained and dupions. This management, however, gave great offence to some of the residents in Savan- nah and Purysburgh, and Messrs. Robingpn and Habersham requested the Vice-President and as- sistants to determine the respective prices and publicly announce the same, which they did on the 26th April, by a proclamation, wherein, by way ofbounty, they promised to pay for cocoons delivered at their store in Savannah, the follow- ing sums, namely : for cocoons made by one worm, hard, weighty and good substance, is. per pound; for the weaker quality, pointed, spotted or bruised, Is. 3d. ; for dupions, (those made by two worms,) 6d. ; for raw silk, from 1st quality cocoons, 14s. per pound ; for that made from 2d quality, 12s.; the product of the double cones, 6s. per pound ; and they also offered, if delivered at the filature, for best cocoons, 3s. 6d. ; for mid- dling, Is. 8J. ; and for inferior, Is. Id., a series of prices truly astonishing, when we reflect that the real merchantable worth of a pound of co- coons is scarcely ever 6d. Experiments were made at tlie filature to as- certain the relative quantity of each of these qualities in a given weight of cocoons, and the results were, that in fifty pounds of green cocoons there were twenty seven pounds of the firstsort, ten pounds four ounces of the second, and twelve pounds twelve ounces of the third. After curing or baking, these fifty pounds weighed only forty- six pounds five ounces, showing a loss in ponde- rosity of nearly eight per cent. Besides ihe ar- rangement above specified, the cocoons were still further divided for the puipose of ree ing into white and yellow, and these again, subdivided into five each, namely : Ist, hard and weighty ; 2d, little woolly and weaker; 3d, very woolly a.td soft; 4ih, spotted and much bruised; 5th, dou- ble worms. Mr. Camuse, son and daughter, wlio, it ap- pears, gave the Commissioners no little trouble by their perverse conduct, returned to Savannah and were engaged to labor at the filature, at three shillings per day, at which Mr. Habersham ex- claims, “ monstrous wages !” The reelers now advanced with much proficiency, and five of them, on the 16th of May, wound off eleven pounds of cocoons each, The proportion of raw silk to the cocoons, appeared, on a variety of tri- als, to be nearly m this ratio : — May 10 1751, 53 Ib.s. cocoons , 1st qualit'’, produced 1174 oz. “ 11, “ 8 “ “ 6-9 pr thread. 18i “ 13, " 11 “ “ iiriduoed 2l| “ 15, “ 55 2,1 ■> 109 “ 18, “ 20 “ “ “ 24 “ 22, “ 15 l.st “ 20 1 “ " “ 10 2d “ 131 The whole amount of cocoons raised i'l the province, was six thousand three hundred and one pounds, of which two thousand pounds came from Ebenezer, and f mr thqnsar.d pounds were made at Whitefidd’s Orphan House. Two hun- dred and sixty-nine pounds and one ounce of raw silk, and one hundred and sixty one pounds of filogee, were prtpa en, ni twithstanding over three hundred and eighty pounds were lost by vermin, fire and moujd. The expense of the cul- ture was large this year, owing to the erection of the filature. &c., which swelled the sum to £608 93. 8Jd. sterling. The private journals of that day kept at .8avannah and Ebenezer, acquaint ns, in some measure, with the arduous nature of the Commissioners’ labors, and he difficulties they encountered from the want of funds, the intraetableness of laborers, the novelty of the attempt, the imperfections of machinery, and the bitter opposition of those who should have sus- tained and encouraged them. The public duties of Mr. Habersham prevented his constant atten- tion to this business; but the whale time of lifr. Robinson was devoted to the filature, directing the sorters, aiding the novices, advising the reelers, and in every way exerting himst If to obtain suc- cess. His engagement with the Trustees expir ed on the 30th of August, 1751, but finding that his intended departure dep essed the friends of the culture, he was solicited by the local govern- ment to remain another year, and, generously sacrificing private to public in crests, -he compli- ed with their request. Mr. Haberstiain thus speaks of Mr. Robinson ; “ I think him the most prudent as well as the most capable person I ever knew, to undertake such a work, and it he could be continued here, I doubt not but that he would turn out a number of well instructed reelers, who would be able to conduct filatures at Eberezer, Aiigitsta, and other part.? of the province.” So great was the confidence whicJi the Trustees had in him, that he was appointed an assistant in the government at Savannah; an honor which he declined, and in the sane letter stated ; “If due encouragement be not given to the culture of raw si’k, for the term of at least fotirteen years, I positively cannot think of settling in America.” These gentlemen recommended the building of a house, sixty feet by twenty-six, as a cocoonry, great los« having been experienced for the want of such a structure. In 1752, Mr. Robinson returned to England, and his place was partially supplied by Joseph Ottolenghe, a native of Piedmont, and a profi- cient in his art, who came to Georgia on the 18ih of July. 1751, and took charge of the filature in April, 1753. In a letter to Secretary Marty n, da- ted September 11, 1753, Mr. Ottolenghe says, that “there were fewer cocoons raised this year, as the worms m.ostly hatched before the trees ‘ the people were wiliing to continue the business.” One hundred and nine- ty-seven pounds of raw silk were made this year, and three hundted and seventy-six pounds in 1754, besides twenty-four pounds of filosele. The peoj lc of Augusta became interested in this manufacture, anu entered, with considerabJe spir- it, into the undertaking, promising to send hands to Savannah, yearly, to learn the^art of reeling: their enthusiasm, however, soon evaporated. On the 29th of Match, 1755, a certificate, sign- ed by thirty-nine eminent silk throwsters and weavers, was given to the “Oemmissioners for Trade and Plantations,” staiirg th.at after exam- ining three hundred pounds of raw silk, im- orted from Georgia, “ we do sincerely declare that the nature and texture is truly good, the color beau- tiful, the thread as even and as dear as the best Piedmont (called wire silk) of the size, and much clearer and even than the usual Italian silks;” and furthermore, “it could be worked with less waste than China silk, and has all the properties of goad silit well adapted to the weaver's art in most branches.” In 1755, five thousand four hundred and eighty eight pounds of cocoons were raised, and four hundred and thirty-eight pounds of raw silk spun. The good effects of the filature were now happily avident in the increased interest of the planters in the subject, w hos nt both their daugh- ter- and young negroes to acquire the a> t of reel- ing. In 1756, three thousand seven hundred and eighty-three pounds and one ounce of cocoons were received at the filatme, and two hundred and sixty-eight pounds of raw silk reeled. The liberal policy of the Coramissioner.=, who had no private ends to answer, caused them to recommend the establishment of additional fila- tures, and in their letter to the Trustees, June 12; 1761, they advise the erection of one at Ebe- nezer, and another contiguous to yavannah, but Mr. Ottolenghe opposed this course, and arrogated to the one in Savannah the entire monopoly of the culture. Jealousy appears to have been very conspicuous in tlr. Oltolenghe’s character, and his opposition to the Saltzburgers and depri ela- tion of their efiorts, arose from this suspidons trait. He aimed to render himself solely neces- sary, and aspersed everything which seemed to militate with hi? fancied superiority. This ap- pears not only from letters of Governors Rey- nold and Ellis, but from his own correspondence, w here this can don and fear of rivalry is plainly discernible. His course gave ofl’ence to the Eb- enezer people, who had already erected a filature in their village ; w ho had been at a gia at sacrifice to send their wives and daughters to learn the art of reeling in Savannah, and' who had hoped to carry on the manufacture under their own su- pervision and for their oxvn benefit. Mr Otto- lenshe, how'cvtr, overruled their views and re- quired all cocoons to be de-livered at Savannah, and to be reeled theie. Each basin at the filature had two apprentice s besides others who were employe din sorting the bails, &c., and the \ari- ous ope-ations connected with the tiadc, em- ployed nearly forty peisons. In 1757. over five thousand pounds of cocoons were received at Savannah, and three hunored and sixty pounds of raw silk spun, which, sat s Governor Ellis, would have been more, if tire eergs had not failed ; and in a letter, dated llih of March, 1757, he snys, “ the raising of silk st en.s to be no longer a matter of cuiiosiiy, it employs many poor people, and is a,vproaching tow ards a staple.” Seven thousand and forty spounds of cocoons were deposited in tire filature in 1758, but while the ftiends of this business were rejei' i;ig in the assurt'd success of their expei iment, they were saddened by the destruction of the filature, which took fire on the 4th of J uly, and was t jtaliy con- sumed. The wound silk, which had not yet been shipped, amounting to three hundred and fiity pounds, was saved, but several thousand weight of silk balls, together wi h much of the reeling apparatus, were destroyed. .Another and more capacious building was immediately erected and was ready for use the ensuing season. In 1759, ten thousand one hundred and thirty- six pounds of cocoons were raised in Georgia, four thousand pounds of which were frem Ebe.- nezer, and the proceeds of theirculture alone, for the season, reached £700 sterlins. The opini 'n of chose engaged in the culture, as expressed to Dr. Jared Elliot was, “ that it was more profita- ble than any other ordinary business.” The cocoons delivered at the filature in 1760, THE SOUTHERN CLXTIVATOR. leaved, and that, Vim SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 83 weighed ttevsn thousand nine hundred and eighty three pounds, and there were spuneisht hundred and thirty-nine pounds. Mr. Ottolonghe was now honored with the full appoint-neni of “ •''u- perintendent of the silk culture inGeorgii,’’ with a salary appropriate to his station. Five'thousand three hundred and s ; ven pounds of cocoons, and three hundred and thirty-two pounds of raw silk were produced in 17dl. Go- vernor vVight, under date 1.1th of July, says: “The great. St appearance that ever they had here was destroyed in two nights’ time, by ex- cessive hard and unseasonable frosts, and there is likewise a degeneracy in the seed, as Mr. Otto- lenghe tells me.” These frosts occurred on the 5th and 6th of April. Parliament, this year, mode a grant of £1000 towards defraying the expenditure for the silk culture, and it was an- nually renewed untd about 1766. By means of this gratuity, i\Ir. Ottolenghe was enabled to give a high price to the rearers of cocoons, and thus sustain the encour.igement so judiciously com- menced. In 1762, fifteen thousand one hundred and one pounds of cocoons were delivered at the filature, and one thousand and forty-eight pounds of raw silk reeled, which Mr. O. declared to be the finest and best silk ever produced in Georgia. The year 1763 showed an increase of cocoons but a decrease of silk, there being fifteen thou sand four hundred and eighty-si.x pounds of the former and only nine hundrel and fifty-three pounds of the latter. The occasion of this dis- parity was a season of cold, rainy weather, to- wards the close of April, by which the later co- coons were injured, and rendered almost useless. There were delivered at the filature, in 1764, fifteen thousand two hundred and twelve pounds of cocoons, notwithstanding the season svas so untavorable, that Gov. Wright mentions the case- of one man who expected to make from five to seven hundred pounds, who only succeeded in raising one hundred pounds of cocoons. Eight thousand six hundred and ninety-five pounds were sent by the Saltzburgers, and the wh de amount yielded eight hundred and ninety-eight pounds of raw silk. In addition to the grant of Parliament, a soci- ety instituted in London, for the encouragement of arts, manufactures and commerce, ofiered cer- tain premiums for tho advantage nf the British American dominions, among which were ; “For every pound of cocoons produced in the provinces of Georgia and South Carolina, in the year 1764, of a hardy, weighty and good suo- stance, wherein only one worm has spun, 3d. ; for every pound of cocoons produced in the same year, of a weaker, lighter, spotted or bruised quality, 2d. ; for dupions, Id.” These premiums were to be paid under the direction oi Mr. O., with proper vouchers that the s ime were raised in either of the provinces specified. It was agitated in 1765, to re iuce the price of cocoons from 3s. to Is. 6J. per pound, a measure which produced much dissatislactio:), and as a consequence there was a considerable falling olT in the amount of balls and silk, only twelve thousand five hundred and fourteen pounds of the former, and seven hundred and twelve pounds of the latter, together with seven hundred and twenty pounds of filosele being produced. To prevent the depression consequent on this reduc- tion, Governor Wright suggested, that instead oi so much per pound, as formerly, that the ten largest quantities should receive, the highest £50, the next greatest parcel £45, and so on, gradually decreasing with the decrease in weight, until you reached the lowest quantity, to which £10 would be awarded; thus, \vhile the expense would be greatly lessened to the Trustees, the stimulus of reward would be suificiently sus- tained. This advice was not adopted, though owing to the urgent remonstrances of those best acquainted with the business, the reduction in the bounty was only 9d. instead of Is, 6d. On the 25th April, 1765, the following order was pub- lished in the “ Georgia Gazette:” “• r^otice is hereby given to all whom it may concern, that by direction of the Right Honora- ble the Lords Commissioners of Trade and Plan- tations, the price usually paid for cocoons is now reduced, and that no more than 2s. 3d. per pound will be paid for cocoons raised in this province, and delivered at the public filature this s ason. “By order of Hi- Excellency the Governor. “Geo. Baillie, Commissary.” This bounty was still further reduced in 1766, when by order of (he Board of Trade, only Is Id. was paid per pound. The de endence ot this cultur.' on the weaiher. was signaMy instanced this year, fro.n (hi fact that though many who had hitherto raised cocoons, abandoned it at the reduction of the brnnty, yet such a large crop had never been produced before ; over iw'cnty th )us ind three hundred and eighty j)ounds of cocoons being delivered at tlu filature, whicli, however, on;y produced one thousand eighty- nine pounds of raw silk, and eight hundred and fifty pounds of filosele. This amount of reeled silk was not at all proportionate to the weight of the cone-, resulting, as Mr. Ottoienghe said in a letter to Governor Wright, October 2, 1766, “to the badness of the seed, and consequent inferi- ority of the worms.” In 1760, the cocoons weigh d i.,nly seven thous-and nine hundred and eignty three pounds, and yet eight hundred and thirty-nine pounds of raw silk were spun; at which rate, the product this year should have been about tsvo thousand pounds. On the 26th of June, Heury Kennan made proposals to the Board of Trade, for carrying on the filature ; but they were of a nature not at all advantageous to the culture, and Gov. Wright, iti his reply, on the 21st ol October, disapproveil of the plan, and exp-osed the fallacy of his -cheme, which was in consequence abandoned. In 1767. ten thousmd seven hundred and six- ty-eight pounds of bal s were raised, and six huri- d ed and seventy-one pounds nine ounces of raw silk spun; the decrease of cocoons being caused, first, by withdrawing of thePurysburgh cocoons, which last year amounied to five thousand five hundred and fifty-one pounds; and second, by the reduction of ttounty, so that while last year the cocoons were delivered in by two hundred and sixty-four different persons, only one hun- dred and sixty individuals were this year devoted to the culture.' The silk, however, was of a bet- ter quality, and sustained its high reputation in the London market. In 1763, another plan was proposed by Mr. Oe- lamar, “ in order the more effectually to establish the growth of raw silk in America.” His propo- sal was, to pay a bounty of 203. per pound on every pound of gooi, clear raw silk imported from any of His Majesty’s dominions in .imeri- ca, to be nail on the price such silk might sell for at public sale in London ; at the expiration of ten years, ten per cent, bountv was to be allow- ed; the ensuing five years at five per cent., after which time the bjunty was to cease. This was the general feature of his plan ; it was not, how- eve'^, adopted, though in many respects its pro- visions were highly judicious and a,npropriate. But this branch of industry and commerce was fast waning before the increasing culture of more sure and lucrative products, and only one hundred and thirty-seven diffirent persons brought cocoons to the filature this year. Gov- ernor Wright in his official letter to the Earl of Hillsborough, July 1, 1763, says, “ I am persua- ded that few, or none but the very poorer sort of people, will continue to go upon that article. — Several substantial persons, who did mean to make it an object when the price was higher, have, to my knowledge, given it over. The rea- son, my Lord; is evident; for people who have their fortune to raise or make, will always turn themselves in such a way, and to the raising and making of such commodities, as they think will answer best ; and it is very clear to me, that those who have negroes, may employ themselves and negroes to better advantage, &c., than by raising cocoons at Is. 6d. per pound, although that is, as I have said, 7, 8 or 9d. more than they are intrinsically worth.” Cluny, in his “American Traveller,” printed in London 1769, says, “ The oiimate of Georgia has been f)und to agree, in every respect, with the silk worm.” Experience, however, proved that the climate was not sufficiently equable to secure permanent and continued success. Gov- ernor Wright, in the letter quoted above, says, “ the varia-'le and uncertain weather in spring, makes it precarious,” and facts amply confirm this statement. Only five hundred and forty-one pounds of raw silk were mads this year, a small- er amount, wi'h one exception, than had been produced for ten years. In 1769, the quantity was still mo'e decreased, both from the reluc- tance of the people to raise worms, and the un- tavorable weather in spring Governor Wright, on the 20tti of J une, 1769, says, “ We had a most extraordinary prospect, till the middle of April, when I thought every thing safe, yet we had very cold rains on the 17th and 18lh, which were succeeded by haid black frost on the 19th and 20th, and destroyed a great part of the worms, and will reduce the silk very much.” The silk business was now on the irretrievable decline, though it still maintained a nominal ex- istence, and received the encouragement of Par- liament. Tne special bounty which had hitherto been paid on cocoons, over a. id above their mer- chantable value, was suspended, and by a sta- tute of 9 Geo. III., c. 33, a premium of twenty- five per cent, from the 1st of January, 1770, to the 1st of January, 1777; of twenty per cent, from the 1st of January 1777, to the 1st of Janu- ary, 1734; and of fifteen percent, from the 1st of January 1784, to the 1st of January, 1791, on the ad valorem value of all silk produced in America and imported into Great Britain in ves- sels regularly navigated by law, was substituted in its place. The inhabitants of Ebenezer resumed the cul- ture, which with them had long been dormant, and its revival at that time was p.incipally owing to the influence of a very worthy man and ma- gistrate, Mr. Wertsch, who, sanguine himself of ultimate success, had imparted to the Germans a portion < f his own enthusiasm. In 1770, they shipped two hundred and ninety- one pounds of raw silk, the result of their own industry, and as the filature at Savannah was discontinued in 1771, the Earl of Hillsborough, ever anxious to advance the produce, warmly commended the zeal of the Saltzburgers, and di- rected President Habersham to distribute “ the b isins and reels that were left in the public fila- ture, to such persons as Mr. Wertsch shall re- commend to be proper objects of that bounty;” and in the same letter he promised that he would endeavor to procure for them, this year, “a small sum from Parliament, to be laid out in purchase of utensils for the assistance of the poor sort of people in your province.” This promise here- deemed. So popular had the silk business become at Eb- enezer, that Mr. Habersham, in a letter cated the 30th of March, 1772, says, “ some peisons in almost every Hmily there, untierstand its process from the beginning to the end.” In 1771, the Germans sent four hundred and thirty-eight pounds of raw silk to England, and in 1772, four hundred and eighty-five pounds, all of their own raising. They made their own reels, which were so much esteemed that one was sent to England as a model, and another taken to the East Indies by PjcKering Robinson. The opera- tions at Savannah were now totally discontinu- ed, though Mr. Ottoienghe still styled himself “ Superintendent of the Silk Culture in Georgia,” and in consideration of his long and faithful ser- vice in that office, received an annuity of £100. In a message of Sir James Wright, to the Commons House of Assembly, 19th of January, 1774, he says., “ The filature buildings seem to be going to decay and ruin ; may it not, therefore, be expedient to consider what other service or use they may be put to 2” nd the Assembly answered: “ We shall not fail to consider how it may be e.vpedient to apply the filature to some public use;” and henceforth it was used as an assembly or ball-room, a place where societies held their meetings, and where divine service was occasionally conducted : more recently, it was converted into a dwelling house, and was thus appropriated at the time of its destruction by fire on the afternoon of March 25, 1839. Thus ended the grand project for raising silk in the Province of Georgia; for though some few individuals, together with the people of Ebene- zer, continued to raise small quantities, yet, as a branch of general culture, it has never been re- suscitated. The last parcel brought to Savannah was in 1790, when over two hundred pounds were purchased for exportation, at from 8s. to 26s. per pound. On reviewing the causes which led to the sus-* pension of this business, after so many exer- tions and suefi vast expense, which, it must be remembered, the profits of the culture never re- imbursed, we find, first, the unfriendliness of the climate, which, notwithstanding its boasted ex- cellence, interfered materially with its success, Gov. Wright frequently speaks of its deleterious influence, and the fluctuations in the various seasons, evidenced, to de.Tionstration, that the in^ terior was better adapted to tfle agricultural part of the business, than the exposed and variable 84 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. sea-board. Mr. Habersham, in a letter to the Earl of Hillsborouoh, dated Savannah, 24th of April, 1772, thus expresses himself on this point : “Upwards of twenty years ago, if my memory does not fail me, Samuel Lloyd, Esq., of London, who was one of the late Trustees for establishing this Colony, and was fourteen years in Italy, and very largely concerned in the silk t usiness, wrote to me, that the best silk was produced at a dis- tance from the seacoast, owing, I suppose, to the richness of the soil, which made the mulberry leaf more glutinous, nutritive and healthy to the silk worm; also, to their not being obnoxious to musquetoes and sand flies, and probably, like- wisei to the weather being more equal and less liable to sudden transition from heat to cold : and on a conversation this day with Mr. Barnard, of Augusta, he assures me, that from two years ex- perience in raising cocoons there, he lost none from sickness which frequently destroys two- thirds of the worms here,; and he further says, that Mr. Ottolenghe told him that the silk reeled from the Augusta cocoons, “ made the strongest and most wiry thread of any raised in these parts.” Second, the expensiveness of living, and the dearness of labor, which was as high as Is. 8d. to 2s. per day, whereas 2d. or Id. was the usual price paid the peasant in silk-growing countries. Governor Wrieht, in a letter to the Earl of Hills- borough, frankly told him that, “ till these pro- vinces become more populous and labor cheaper, I apprehend silk will not be a commodity, or an article of any considerable amount. Third, the great reduction of the bounty, which being the stimulus to exertion, ceased to operate as an incentive, w'hen from 3s. 3d., it fell to Is. 3d., and finally to a mere premium on the gene- ral quantity imported. The poor could not sub- sist on these prices, and the rich could employ their lands to much better advantage than in cul- : tivating an article which would not repay the ex- penses of labor : and, lastly, the increaBing at- tention bestowed on rice and cotton, sealed the fate of the silk culture, and the planters soon learned to consider the latter of no importance, in comparison with the large and lucrative crops ■yielded by those more staple commodities. Oth- er reasons might be mentioned, but these suffi- ciently account for its decline there, and its total neglect even to the present day. During the morusmulticaulis epidemic, which spread over our country in 1838, Savannah, it is true, did not escape, and for a time the fever raged with much violence, but the febrile action soon subsided, leaving no permanent benefit, and only a few fields of waving foliage, as a deciduous memento of this frenzied excitement. That silk can be produced in Georgia equal to any in the world, does not admit of a doubt, but whether it will ever be resumed, and when, is among the unknown events of the future. CCLTIVATIOrV OF IIVOIA.-V COKN, From a paper read before the Dorchester (Md.) Far- mers’ Club. Published by order of the Club. Requested under a resolution of the last Club meeting, I submit to them a few additional re- marks, in support of the mode of the culture of Indian corn, indicated in my last paper, on that subject. [See April No. So. CuhT. p. 52.] It will be unnecessary for me, before the mem- bers of this club, to urge the point of the indis- pensable necessity of the presence ol Nitrogen, lor the perfection ot all plants designed for ani- mal sustenance — it is sufficient to demonstrate, that the sources of this essential, elementary material, are more economically appropriated under that culture, than by the usual practice ol recent plowing, and crjss plowing, &e. &c. The two great sources of this useful element, . are ist, the direct product ol all organic bodies, in a state of decomposition — united with by- ; drogen, in the form of ammonia; and with oxygen, as nitric acid— 2d, the indirect supply from the atmosphere, at large, when it has been diff used, from bodies decaying on the surface of our lands. Prom the infinite accumulation of these ma- terials, it is unquestionable, that the atmosphere must be loaded with these gaseous products, as ■well as with all other vaporable su-bstances — and it is equally so, that being soluble in water, ' they will of necessity mix and descend with the rain and snow, which may fall upon the earth from the regions in which "they -were floating. Notwithstanding this obvious necessity, of the presence ol these gases, and others, occa- sioned by the causes named, yet, being not ap- parent to the senses, farmers, indeed In general, will not acknowledge the fact; and many others do not appreciate their quantity; which, at the first falling ol rain, or snow, and especially af- ter their long suspension, is greater than would be imagined, without actual examination — as I assure you, 1 have irequently witnessed, on an- alysis, for my own assurance and gratification. I have alluded to this important fact, iu ray former paper, and 1 renew it, with the mure earnestness, because it forms the chief basis or principle ol the mode of culture therein advo- cated,; and if admitted, the conclusion is una- voidable, that, as befbre explained,, it is better adapted to economise the atmospheric supply ol vegetable nutriment, as well as to prevent the waste, by dissipation ol the products of the decomposing sward, than the usual practice of recent and cross plowing. The soil, too, will be improved, not only by the artificial fixity, given to these volatile sub- stances— the gases— but by the salts and alkalies ol the putrescent sward which is placed and preserved in a condition to promote fermentation. In point oifact, results have accorded to theo- ry a large share ol corroboratory evidence. Though motives may be misconstrued, 1 will venture in aid of the problem I have proposed lor solution to adduce cases of results,, in com- parison with those of the usual methods lor which I refer to the publications of the facts — set lorth in the Delaware Advertiser, Wilming- ton^ and in the American Farmer, Baltimore. The first -named paper notices a sweep-stake, made up by several gentlemen in Delaware, who admitted me as a member — for the best crop of Indian co.^n, on one acre;— the Am. Farmer, perhaps more accessible, also publish- ed it, at the same time — 1829, vol. 11, p. 314; my method then, differed from the present, only in the planting of doubte-AriW and one plant left, in place of single drill and two left, which lat- ter I have found to be prelerable; 1 think, too, in one deep bar furrow, which I ■have discontinued. The product ofmy acre was something more than one hundred bushels shelled corn — and I obtained the stake~a silver pitcher;— I under- stood that my competitors all cross plovwd. The files ol the Am. Farmer, also, in 18‘27, vol. 9, page 257, conmins a notice of my suc- cess, in a competition for two premiums offered by the Md. Agricultural Society— lor the best products of Indian corn, on ten acres, and on five acres; both of which, I had the gratifica- tion to receive —in evidence of the preference ol my mode of culture — which gave me ninetv bushels per acre on the five acres — and seventy six per acre on the ten. On the second — the Maryland case, there happened a considerable drouth — and my neigh- bors predicted destruciion to my crop — but it suffered less than theirs, w'hich was cross plow- ed; which is well attested by a sweep-stake s.il- ver pitcher inscribed to that effect — which I re- ceived from them; and several of you gentle- men happen to be ol the number, that made the handsome contribution^ and I hope., that we may long live to enjoy the festive libations of thatj and similar trophies, which you have ob- tained, on similar occasions, for similar achieve- ments, on that arena ol competition where victo- ry leads tothe comfort and ■happiness of mankind The inveterarcy of custom arid prejudice, may long continue the practice of recent, and cross plowing — but I beg of you generally, to make the experiment, fairly, on a small square of your fields, if you please; and 1 am fully con- vinced, you will find the results, which I have stated, and the reasons on which they were found- ed, most fully and satisfactorily sustained, This inveteracy ol custom and prejudice has done much to retard the onward march of agri- culture; and while its influence continues, it is a vain hope, Lliat we shall see in general prac- tice, a system based on principles of science and unerring philosophic induction ;— while this impediment continues, the charge of “book- learning" will be, as it now is, a popular theme of derision; a synonym of folly with the most ol our farmers; while it continues, the fact ol printing or writing down an established truth, will be, as it now is, enough to discredit it, with a large class of our countrymen at home and abroad, possessing in other respects, an ordina- ry sagacity; it is our business — it is om purpose to ameliorate this unfortunate condition of fatu- ity— and teach by ocular process — by results, which may be viewed in comparison that they have not attained fhat ulLimiatc principle of skill, which they fancy they have, innately, derived Irom their forefathers, and that one higher step may yet be taken by them to advantage; it suc- cessful in the reclamation, we may claim a por- tion ot public gratitude— if not, yet by the ef- fort, we have performed our duty. Joseph E. Mose. From Ellsworth’s Report for 1844. O R A . Washington City, January, 15, 1845. Dear Sir : — I take the liberty to call your at- tention to the cultivation of one of the most val- uable of vegetables, destined, at no distant day, to expel from our maikets one of the m.ost ex- tensive aiticles of imports, and now admitted tree ol duly. I mean okra, whose excellence in soup is universally known and acknowledg- ed. Its ripe seeds burned and used as cojjee, can- not be distinguished therefrom ; and many persons of the most fastidious taste have not been able to distinguish it from the best “Java.” It is very easily grown. The seeds •may l>e sown i-n May, in drills 4 feet asunder, an in. h deep and 8 inches apart, and cultivated like corn or peas^ It sends up a strong stalk, and yields a great abundance ol seeds, and the “coffee” made from it is very healthy. 1 Uiink it matter ol great importance, espeeiallv to the western States, and herewith semi a bag of seeds for distribution. Very respecttully, Hon. H. L. Ellsworth J. F. Callan. Extract from the Farmers’ Encyclopaedia. Okra, (hibiscus esculenlis.) — This plant is ex- tensively cultivated in the We‘l Indies, from whence it has been introduced into the United States. The pods are,gathered green, and used in soups. They form an important ingredient in the celebrated gumbo soup of New Orleans, and other southern place-s. The pods are filled with seeds and a mucilage, ol a bland and high- ly nutritious quality. Hence, tlie okra is Ire- quently recommended to persons afflicted with dysentery and other bowel complaints, eaten either hoi led or made into soup. When butter- ed andepieed, they afford a rich dish^ and, with vinegar, they make a good pickle. The plant comes to maturity in the middle States, and the pods are abundant in the Philadelphia market. Those who become once accustomed to this wholesome vegetable, contract a great fondness for its peculiar flavor. In Lousiana, and other southern States, a dinner is scarcely considered complete without okra cooked in some way or other; and the poor consider it one ol their greatest blessings. The pods are of a proper size when 2 or 3 inches long, but may be used as long as they remain tender. II fit for use^ they will snap asunder at the ends-; but if too old and wcody, they must be rejected. One peck of the tender pods are to be cut crosswise into very thin slices, not exceeding one-eighlfi ol an inch ia thickness; to thie quantity, add about one-third of a peck of tomatoes, previous- ly peeled and cut into pieces. The proportion of tomatoes may be varied to suit the taste. A coarse piece of beef (a shin is generally made use of) is placed in a pot or digester, with about 2j gallons ol water, and a very small quantity of salt. This is permitted to boil a few min- utes, when the scum is taken off, and the okra and tomatoes are thrown in. With these in- gredients, in the proportions mentioned, the soup is very fine. Still, .some think it improved by THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 85 addilioa ol gieea corn, Lima beans, &c. The most essential thing to be atiendea to is the boil- ing, and the excellence ot the soup depends al- most entirely on this being done laithfully; for, if it be not boiled enough, however \yell the in gredients may have been selected and propor- tiot>ed, the soup will be very interior, and give but little idea of the delightful flavor it posses- ses when well done. A properly constructed digester is decidedly the best vessel lor boiling this or any other soup in; but,, where siich a utensil is not at hand, an earthen pot should be prelerred; but on no account make use of an iron one, as it would turn the whole souj) per- tectly black,, instead of the pfoper color, viz: green, colored with the rich yellow of tomatoes. The time usually required for boiling okra soup is about five hours; during which, it should be occasionally stirred, and the ingredients mash- ed. When taken otf, the original quantity will be reduced to about one-half, and the meat “done to rags;” the whole forming a homoge- neous mass, of the consistence of thick porridge. TTfrlF. HEISSaAN FLY. [Observations communicated at the raquest of the Hon. H. 1.. Ellsworth, by E. C. Hernck, librarian of Yale College, Conn.] The insect commonly called the Hessian Jly, which has for so many years ravaged the wheat- fields of our country, appears to have been wholly unknown here before the American re- volution. It is usually stated that the insect was first noticed in the year 1776 or 1779, on Staten Island and the westerly end ol Long Island, and was generally supposed to have been introduced among straw brought hither by the Hessian troops in the service of Great Bri- tain, The ravages ol the insect soon attracted general attention ; and as early as the year 1788, serious apprehensions were excited in England that the destroyer might be conveyed thither in some cargo of wheat. The alarm there was so great, that the government took up the matter; “ the privy council sat day alter uay, anxiously debating what measures should be adopted to ward otf the danger of a calamity more to be dreaded, as they well knew, than the plague or pestilence; expresses were sent off in all direc- tions to the officers of the customs at the outports respecting the examination of cargoes; des- patches written to the ambassadors m France, Austria, Prussia, and America, to gain that in- formation, ot the want of which they were now so sensible; and so important was the business deemed, that the minutes of the council, and the documents collated Irom, fill upwards of 200 octavo pages.” (Kirby and Spence, i,50.) On the25tb of June ol that year, an order in council was issued, prohibiting the entrance into Great Britain of wheat raised in any of the territories ot the United States; intending, by this measure, to keep out the much dreaded ene- my. Soon alter the arrival of the news of this order, the supreme executive council of Penn- sylvania addressed a letter ol inquiry to the “Philadelphia Society for promoting Agricul- ture,” who promptly replied that the plant ol the wheat alone was injured, and that the insect was not propagated by sowing the grain which grew on fields infected with it. The prohibition was doubtless based on the erroneous represen- tation ol Sir Joseph Banks and Dr. Blagden, which they continued to enforce even atter they were better instructed by Dr. Currie. It is sul- ficiently remarkable, that, although the wheat was prohibited an “entry,” it was allowed to be stored ; so that the Hessian fly, it concealed among the grain, would, after all, have had a good oppor! unity to escape into the country. In eight or ten months, the government bought the imprisoned wheat at prime cost, kiln-dried it, and resold it at great loss, and almost immedi- ately took off the prohibition. (Memoir of Currie, ii, 65.) In the course of a few years after this, the Hessian fly was found in every part of our country where wheat was cultivated. From the period ot the revolution down to the present lime, no insect in the land hasrecei ved so much public attention, or has called out so many scoics of pages of observation and speculation. These are to be found scattered through maga- gines, agricultural injurnals, and common news- papers. But, In dehance of them all, the Hes- sian fly continues its destructive work, and is probably as little under the actual control oi man as it was half a century ago. Whether this insect was an original inhabi- tant of this country, or was imported by the Hessian soldiers, is a question not yet settled. At the lime of the discussion which led to the prohibitory order, an extensive inquiry in Eu- rope resulted in the conclusion that the insect v'as wholly unknown there. Yet, in the year 1834, it was found existing in several parts in southern Europe, and injuring the wheat in the sarhe manner as in this country. This impor- tant discovery was made by my friend, Mr. James D. Dana,, who had previously been en- gaged with me in the examination oi the Hes- sian fly, and was well qualifiea to decide upon the case. (American Journal ol Sciences, xli, 153 ) Moreover, we have an account from the vicinity of Geneva, in Switzerland, reported by Duhamel, of an insect destroying the wheat there as long since as 1732, in the manner ofilhe He.ssian fly ; and an account, in 1823, by Raddi, ol what is probably the same insect, in various places in Italy. No traces have been delected of any insect ol the habits ol the Hessian fly, in our country, earlier than the year 1776 ; and if this insect is a native ol North America, what plant sustained it before wheat, rye and barley were imported? On the other hand, we have no proof that the Hessian fly has ever been found in Germany ; and it is certain that, if the wheat were reaped in the ordinary manner, nearly all the available insects would be left in the stubble ; and, further, the straw alleged to have been brought by the Hessians must have been that which ripened in the summer of 1775, and from which most of the insects which it contained would have escaped before August, 1776. On a question of such uncertainly, no one need quarrel with another’s opinion. The first scientific description ol the Hessian fly was published in the Journal of the Acade- my of Natural Sciences of Philadelphia, lor July, 1817, (No. 3, i, 45,) by the late distinguish- ed entomologist, Thomas Say. He there gives it the systematic name ol ihs cecidomyia destruc- tor; and to his description adds a lew remarks relative to its habits, and furnishes, also, an ac- count of another insect, by which the fly is often destroyed. Without going into a minute and tedious technical description, the following ac- count is offered as probably sufficient to enable an observer to identity the insect in its various transformations; The Hessian fly is a two- winged insect, with head, eyes, and thorax black; the head is small and depressed; the palpi (or mouth feelers) are three or four jointed — the basal one being the smallest ; the antennae are about half as long as the body, and consist each ot from 14 to 17 oval joints, besides the basal joint, which appears double; the wings are large, hairy, rounded at the tip, and have each two or three longitudinal net vures ; the abdo- men is of a tawny red, and furnished, irregular- ly, with many black hairs ; consists ot seven rings or segments, besides the ovipositor, which is ot two sides, and of a rose-red color ; the ovipositor, when extended to the utmost, is about one-third as long as the abdomen; length of body, from the front of the head to the end of the abdomen, about one-eighth of an inch ; the legs are long and slender, pale red, and covered sparsely with dark hair. The male is equal in size to the female, but generally less black, with antennae somewhat longer, and about three- lourths the length of the body. The joints of the antennae are globular, and slightly separated from each other. Several other species of the genus cecidoniyia, or one closely allied to it, are common in this region. But the Hessian fly is the largest and darkest of our species with which I am acquainted. The eggs are laid in the long creases or fur- rows of the upper surface of the leaves, (i. e. the blade or strap-shaped part) of the young wheat plant. While depositing her eggs, the insect stands with her head towards the point or extremity of the leaf, and at various distances between the point and where the leaf joins and surrounds the stalk. The number found on a single leaf varies from a single egg up to thirty, or even more. The egg is about a fiftieth of an inch long, cylindrical, rounded at the ends, glossy and translucent, of a pale red color, be- coming, in a few hours, irregularly spotted with deeper red. Between its exclusion and its hatch- ing, these red spots are continually changing in number, size, and position ; and sometimes near- ly all disappear. A little while before hatching, two lateral rows of opaque white spots, about ten in number, can be seen in each egg. In four days, more or less, according to the weather, the egg is hatched; the little wrinkled maggot, or larva, creeps out of the delicate membranous egg sKin, crawls down the leaf, enters thesheath and proceeds along the stalk, usually as far as the next joint below. Here it fastens, length- wise and head down w'ards, to the tender stalk, and lives upon the sap. It does not gnaw the stalk, nor does it enter the central cavity there- of; but, as the larva increases in size, it gradu- ally becomes imbedded in the substance of the stalk. Atter taking its station, the larva move.s no more, gradually loses its reddish color and wrinkled appearance, becomes plump and tor- pid, is at first semi-translucent, and then more clouded with internal white spots; and, when near maturity, the middle of the intestinal parts is of a green ish color. In five or six weeks ( va- rying with the season) the larva begins to turn brown, and soon becomes of a bright chesnm color. In this slate, the insect bears some re- semblance to a flax-seed; and many observers speak of this as the jlax-seed state. The larva has now become a chrysalis, or pupa, andtakes no more food. The pupa within gradually cleaves off from the outer skin, and, in the course ot two or three weeks, is entirely detached Irom it, so that the skin of the larva (now brown and hardened, and of a sort of leathery texture) has become a case or shell for the pupa inside. The pupa shell is, of course, in size and form, like the larva: it is oval, bulging out beneath, and of the same curve above as the outside of the stalk ; divided by crosslines into twelve seg- ments, and is about an eighth ol an inch long. Within this shell the pupa gradually advances towards the winged state ; it contracts in length, but not in breadth ; and its skin appears covered with minute elevations. Just before evolution, we find the pupa invested in a delicate mem- brane, or scarf, (which, not long previous, was its outer skin,) through which many parts ol the future fly may be distinctly seen. Finally, this scarf splits along the thorax, or back, and the insect comes forth, both from this and the pupa shell, a perfect two-winged fly. This is, in brief, the history of an individual w hich has been so fortunate as to escape all the numerous enemies with which its race is sur- rounded from the moment the egg is deposited; but of these, more hereafter. In the northern and middle States, at least, winter wheat is sown in September or October. Soon after the plants have appeared above ground, the Hessian fly begins to lay her eggs upon them; and this operation is continued du- ring several weeks, according to the season. The eggs laid on the green leaves are in a few days hatched, and the young larvas crawl down the stalk, and take their stations ; generally clus- tering around the stalk at the nearest joint be- low. Here, by sucking of the plant, they in- crease in size, become lull and hard, and, press- ing deeply into the stalk, they impair its growth ; and if their number about one joint is large, the stalk is killed. Frequently the plant, although impoverished, advances far enough to head out ; but when the grain begins to fill, its own weight, or perhaps the wind, causes the stalk to break down. The injury done to the wheat is occa- sioned by the exhaustion of the sap, and by the pressure on the yielding stalk. isrsassiaei 80 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. In five or six weeks, the larvoe stop feeding, the outer skin turns bro« n, and within this browa and leathery case the pupte pass the winter — generally a little below the surface of the earth. In April and May, the fly is again lound depo- siting her eggs on the same wheat, (viz: that Irom grain sown the preceding autumn,) and also on the spring wheat which has just come up. These eggs hatch, and the larvae ihcrelrom operate in the same manner as those of the aulamn previous. These larv® become pupm about the middle of June. The flies which lay their eggs in the .spring are probably in part Irom the pupre which became such late in the pre- ceding autumn, and partly from pupaj contained in stubble left the preceding summer. The pe- riod of the existence of the Hessian fly in the pupa or flax-seed state is exceedingly variable. After much observation, my own opinion is, that, in general, pupae which become such late in the autumn evolve the winged insect partly during the next spring, and partly in the summer and autumn following. Those pupae which be- cocr.c such about June, evolve the winged insect partly during the next autumn, and partly during the year succeeding. The Hessian fly is attacked by numerous foes, v/hich, in various stages of its existence, destroy a large part of every generation. Whether it has, in its winged state, any enemies, except the ordinary destroyers of flies, 1 know not. The eggs, while lying on the leaves of the young plant, are visited by a very minute four-winged insect, (a species of platygaster,) which lays in them its own eggs. From later observation, it appears that, occasionally, as many as five or six eggs of this parasite are laid in a single egg of the Hessian fly. The latter egg hatches and becomes a pupa, as usual ; but from the pupa case, instead of the Hessian fly, issues one or more of these minute parasites. The pupae, while imbedded in the stalk, are attacked by at least three different minute para- sites, (four-winged hymenopcera,) which, boring through the sheath of the stalk, deposite their eggs in the body within ; and the latter is finally devoured by the parasite larvae. These are the principal means by which the multiplication of the Hessian fly is lestrained within tolerable limits. Although the loss annually sustained by the wheat-growers of this country, in consequence of the ravages of the Hessian fly, is severe, yet it is well nigh impossible to ascertain even its probable amount. As long since as 1800, Dr. S. L. Mitchell, of New York, affirmed that the “insect is more formidable to us than would be an army of twenty thou.sand Hessians.’’ In 1804, President Dwight, of Yale college, re- marked that “this insect is feeble and helpless in the extreme, defenceless against the least ene- my, and crushed by the most delicate touch ; yet, for many years, it has taxed this country, annually, more, perhaps, than a million of dol- lars.” At the present day, the amount of the injury inflicted probably far exceeds what it was forty years since ; and to discover some feasible mode of exterminating the insect, or at least of arresting its ravages, is an object of great importance to this country. Various remedial measures have, from time to time, been proposed; most of w'hich I will here state. 1st. Steeping the seed-wheat in elder juice, solution of nitre, boiling water, or other liquids ; or rolling in lime, ashes, or some other sub- stance, in order to kill the eggs. But as the eggs of the Hessian fly are not on the seed, they will never be hurt by such processes. So far as these means give vigor to the plant, they may be of some little service. 2d. Sowing seed obtained from places in which the in-sect has not made its appearance, (American Museum, iv, 47.) This recommen- dation also assumes the error, that the eggs are laid on the grain, and will be found, as it has often proved, useless as respects this insect. 3d. Abstaining rigidly throughout the whole grain-growing region of North America from planting wheat, rye, barley, or oats, for one. two or three years, and thus starve out the in- sect! This plan might be effectual, but would obviously involve some inconveniences. 4th. Manuring the land very highly, so that the plants will grow vigorously, and be sooner out ofthe way of the insect, and also better able to resist it. This proposal has some merit, but does nothing towards destroying the insect. 5th. Sowing some variety of bearded wheat, flint wheat, &c., supposed to have a harder and more solid stalk than common wheat, and bet- ter able to withstand the impression of the lar- vae. A suggestion of some value, but, equally with 4ih, leaves the inseet unharmed. flth. Fumigating the wheat field, and sprink- ling the young wheat with infusion of elder and with other steeps. If successful, which is quite uncertain, it is plain that these measures are impracticable on a large scale. 7th. Sowing winter w’heat very late in the autumn, so that the fly shall have mostly disap- peared before the plants are large enough to be attacked. No doubt this plan is to some extent useful, but the wheat sown late is in great dan- ger of perishing during the winter. The fly will of course attack it in the spring, yet one attack will do less damage than two. 8th. Sowing oats early in autumn on the in- tended wheat-field. It is supposed the fly will lay its eggs on the plani ; then let them be plow- ed in, and the wheat sown. The fly having nearly exhausted itself on the oats, the w'heai will suffer less. This plan tnay possibly be of some partial utility. 9th. Drawing a heavy roller over the young wheat both in autumn and spring. This pro- cess must be useful in crushing many eggs and larvae. lOth. Permitting sheep and other animals to graze the wheat-fields w'hile the insects are lay- ing their eggs. By these means, large numbers of the eggs will be devoured with the leaves. 11th. Burning the stubble immediately after harvest, and plowing in the remains. This is by far the most practicable atrd effectual mode of exterminating the insect, or, at least, o! check- ing its increase. In the stubble are many puf aa ofthe fly, at this time complelelv in our power; if, in reaping, the stubble is left high, the fire would sw’eep rapidly over a field, and destroy nearly all these pupae; the tew which escaped the fire, would, by the plow, be buried so deep as to perish in the earth; mere plowing in oi the stubble must be highly useful. If the two recommendations last named were thoroughly put in practice over the whole country — nof on- ly upon w’heat, but also on rye and barley, and any other plants attacked by the Hessian fly — the ravages of this insect would, in all probabil- ity, ere long, become scarcely wmrthy of notice. It may not be improper, in this place, to state that the foregoing account of the habits of the Hessian fly is derived from my own long-con- tinued observations, and that I have moreover endeavored to consult all the papers of any im- portance which have been published on the sub- ject. There are in the United Stales, besides the Hessian fly, several other insects which attack the w'heat while in the field. Those persons who assert that the former lays its eggs on the grain in the spike oi head, have undoubtedly mistaken for the Hessian fly some one of these other in- sects. The following brief notices of the more important of these enemies, I have abridged from the accounts comprised in Dr. T. W. Har- ris’s “ Treatise on some of the insects of New Eng- land, lohich are injurious to vegetation (Camb. 1842 ; 459 pages, 8vo.,) a w'ork of great interest and value. In it the inquirer will find a faithful digest of all the reliable information we have on the nu- merous insects which injure our plants, fruits, and trees; and, in addition, he will learn the means of defence, so far as any have been dis- covered. The book ougnt to be in the hands of every intelligent farmer and orchardist. 1. A grain moth (Angoumois moth — alucita cerealella, Oliv.) probably the same as described by Col. Carter, in the Transactions of the Amer- ican Pkilosifhical Society, and by J. Lorain, in Mease’s Archives of Useful Knowledge, volume ii, 1812. It is about three- eighths of an inch long when its wings are shut. The. upper wings are of a light brown satin color and lustre, covering the body hori- zontally above, but drooping a little at the sides. The lower wings and the rest of the body are ash-colored. The moth lays her eggs usually on the young and lender grain in the field; each caterpillar from these eggs selects a single grain, burrows into it, and remains concealed, devouring the meal wfithin. Subjecting the grain to a heat of 167® Fahr., lor twelve hours, in an oven, will kill the insect. 2. The English wheat fly {lifula tritxci, Kir- by,) is a small orange-colored two-winged gnat, which lays its eggs in the head of wheat while blossoming. The maggots irom these eggs arc without feet, tapering towards the head, at first perfectly transparent and colorless, but soon be- coming orange-yellow; and when mature, are each about an eighth of an inch long. It is supposed they devour the pollen, and prevent the setting of the grain; the maggots fall from the spike to the earth, within which they under- go their final transformations. This insect t or one very similar to it) has done much damage in the northern States and in Canada for several years past; but no effectual mode of preventing the mischief, or of destroying the insect, appears to have been devised. 3. The wheat caterpillar. — This is a span- worm of brownish color, with twelve feet — six near each end of the body. It feeds on the ker- nel in the milky state, and also devours the ger- minating end of the ripened grain. It is said to be found in the chaff when the grain is threshed. We have little certain knowledge concerning the parent inject or its transformations. In addition to these three, there are probably other insects more or less injurious to our wheat crops. Much has been published in our jour- nals relative to these depredators ; yet their ha- bits are imperfectly understood, and many of the accounts are confused and contradictory. It is greatly to be desired that all who have the op- portunity should endeavor to make careful ob- servations, and communicate them to the public. These observations must be accompanied by accurate descriptions of the insect under exami- nation, and in its various stages ; otherwise, most of the labor will be spent in vain. GKAUE® HILL-SIBE BITCHES. From the Farmers’ Register. In the February number of the Register, p. 88> I find an article headed “ Scraps of Farmers’ Conversation, by the Editor.” The conversa- tion of Mr. Old I propose to notice. He is op- posed to the .system o! graded hill-side ditches as a preventive to the washing of the land in heavy falls of rain, because they will not ejfect the object desired — that on a hill-side having se- veral ditches, if the one near the top should break, the quantify of water thereby increased in the next, together with the force with which it would descend, the second would break, and, for the same reason, all the rest; consequently more injury w’ould be done to the land than if they had not been made. He gives an instance of one of his ditches, that he had been so parti- cular with as to attend to in person, having been broken by the lodgment oi a few blades of fod- der, which seems to be conclusive that the sys- tem was a bad one. If Mr. Old bad given the grade and depth of his ditches, we should have bpen better able to form an opinion whether he had given the plan a fair trial or not ; but we are left in the dark in these particulars, as well as to the distance between them and the manner his rows were laid off; whether in checks up and down the hill, or drills parallel with the ditches, or horizontally. For the last ten years I have practised the system of graded hill-side ditches, accompanied with the horizontal culti- vation, as I believe w'ith great success in pre- venting my land from washing. 1 must, there- fore, ask leave to differ with Mr. Old. If our THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 87 fields were perleci inclined planes, it vould be a very easy matter to so run our rows as Jor each to bear oli its own water so gently as not materially to was.h the land. This, iiowever, being I'ar from the case, the question is, the best protection under the circumstances of the many undulations that we find in even a small field. It is the practice of many farmers in this sec- tion of Georgia to put in the necessary number of ditches and lay oil their rows parallel with those ditches and cultivate the crop in drills. The arga nent lor this practice is, that the rows, having the same gradeof theditches, will main- ly bear olT their own water. They lorget that the natural un.lulations will very soon vary the gra^ie, in fact diange me direction of the water in diflferent points of the row; it is therefore embodied and presses its way Lwn the hill to the ditch below, drives across that and material- ly injures the land. The reason lor the imper- lection of this system ispbvious. In one part of the field the hill may be very abrupt, at an- other less so, and at another still less. A ditch passing across all these various declinations, ascending the hollow on one side and descend- ing it on the other to the natural eye, but by the instrument keeping the samegrade. Now it is very easy to perceive, that in a parallel of thirty feet Irorn the di ch, you would lose your grade, for the reasoii, that the fall, suoposing the par- al'el on the lower side of the ditch, would be much greater where the hill was very abrupt, than where it was less than half as much so. Therefore the parallel row would be many inch- es out of the grade of the ditch at the steep part of the hill, and as compared with the di:ch where the land was less abrupt. Hence the water would be thrown into bodies by this me- thod of operation, to say nothing of the many smaller undulations, almost imperceptible to the eye, producing the same effect. And when once sufficiently embodied, the volume contin- ues to increase, and it soon defies obs’ruction. It cannot be difficult forany one who has ever used a level to comprehend the lorce of this rea- soning It has been observed, that if fields were pe.’fect inclined planes, it would be a very easy raatler to have each row pass off its own water. Now the horizontal rows form an inclined plane taking the rows together. True the direciion of ihe plane is changed as often as the direction ol the level changes, nevertheless the same grade is oreserved, measuring from the top of one bed to the top of the other; therefore the direction of the plane is changed as often as you have un- dulations in the land. Your level being perfect, of course your inclined plane is perfect, and when you have such a fall of water as to over- ran your water-fu.''rows, it is as apt to break over on a ridge as in a valley; lor the rows be- ing level, the water remains where it fell — the inclined plane being perfect, the water passes over in a kind of sheet, until leceived by the ditch below, a.ad by it borne off. To keep your level perfect, short rows will occur between you guide furrows ; because where the land is most abrupt, the guide furrows will be nearer togeth- er than when it is less so, by runnins rows about parallel with the guide rows the place for the short rows will be indicated by the filling of the space where the land is most abrupt ; the re- maining space will then be to fill with short rows by the judgment of the operator. But to the ditches. A field that is intended to be ditched should be sown in small grain, in or- der to have as smooth a surface to operate on as possible. The ditches should be from 75 to 150 yards apart, regulated in their distance apart by the tall of the land, and the ability of the soil to absorb water. In fields laying comparatively well, in many cases t^ree or four ditches are suT ficient for a field of fifty acres, of which the operator must be the j udge. The grade may be regulated by the ability of the soil to absorb wa- ter, giving greater fall on clay lands, and less on sandy porous soils. For land having ave- rage ability to absorb water, my grade is three inches to twelve feet, increased or diminished a quarter of an inch, as the soil is more or less capable to absorb water. The instrument used IS the cominijii ra let level, having a siride ol iwelve lett, wiih a plum.b bob suspended from the crown by a very small cord, so boxed as to prevent the influence of the wind. The grade i^ indicated by a mark on the cro-s-bar, say two and a h.all feet Irom the crown. The grade that you may wi.sh may be ascertained by first find- ing a perfect level. This is ^e^t done by re- ver-ing llij ends o! the instrument, until the j'lumb-litie will stand at the same point on the cros. -' ar. Then place under one end ol the le- vel a block just the thickness that you wish your grad-^-, and tl e plumb line will indicate the de- ciinaiion on ihe cross-bar. I usually commence opera ions near the highest poinuff theland and in the middle of the intended ditch, and let that point divide the water, having it to run each way. By this method I encouniera less volume of water at any one point. The ditch being marked out by a chop wit.h a hoe at each step of the level, it is opened by running several fur- rows with a plow, and the dirt drawn out on the lower side with weeding hoes. I prefer the ditches wide rather than deep, and concave in the bottom. A plow may pass them withoutin- convenience, and they occupy about the space ofone corn-row. The nece.ssary number being laid out and opened, you may proceed to lay out your guide furrows, by the mark that indicates the true level. The space between the guide furrows will be filled by -tinning parallel rows alternate to the guide rows, the width that you mav desire, for either corn r.r cotton, until the space is filled, finishing with short rows where they may be required, as before directed. The land is then thrown into beds by the rows, the beds opened, and the crop planted. In the cul- tivation, it the level is well preserved in the rows, and the water-furrows kept well open, all the water will be retained in common rain.s; but if the rain should be so great that the land cannot absorb it, nor the water furrows hold it, ii passes over the bed in a sheet— because of the inclined plane formed by the horizontal rows — and is received by the ditch and borne off. If the grade of the ditch is a proper one, and well preserved the whole length, and properly opened and well attended to the first year, when a turf will be formed on its bank, I wilt ensure it not to break by the lodgment of a few blades of fodder. The reason that hill-side ditches are in dis- repute with many is because the grade is not a proper one, or not well preserved. In one part of the ditch, the grade being too great, the wa- ter passes too rapidly; in another, not being great enough, it passes too sluggishly: conse-- quentlv there must be an accumulation at the point where the water moves slowest, and the volume continues to inciease until the ditch is overflowed, for which the system is condemned, when the true cause is in the operator. I have seen many fields injured from improper ditch- ing, but it has not proved to me that the system is a bad one. If Mr. Old will give us a state- ment of his method of operation, and cogent reasoning why the system of graded hill-side ditches is a bad one, and point out one that is belter, and sustain it by incontrovertible proofs, tor myself I wifi most cheerfully abandon the one and embrace the other. Of one filing I am certain, that my land washes less than iny neighbors’ who have not resorted to the means that I have to prevent it; and I believe that many of them are finding it out, from the fact that they liave commenced the system of graded ditches. Since writing the above, I have had on my farm a very hard and washing rain, when the land was not guarded against it. Soon after the rain a field was examined that came into my possession last winter, and in the spring the ne- cessary number of ditches had been made in it, and no attention given them since. By the way, it is a very broken field, and many gullies had been formed, across which the ditches passed as a matter of course. The crop is corn, and cul- tivated horizontally. I found the field well pre- served. Even in the gullies across which the ditches passed, the loose dirt which fell Irom the pl'jws ill crossing them had not been washed out. I confidently expect, by filling these gul- lies wii.n pine bushes, which 1 shall do this fall previous to sowing wheal, to have these gullies entirely filled, and corn growing on them. My object in noticing the conversation of Mr. Oid is to elicit information on the subject of preserving hill}' land froui washing from the heavy f ills of rain, frequent in this country du-. ring ihe crop season, and as the gentleman con- demns the system that I have practised with success, as 1 believe, 1 felt called on to vindi- cate it, and at the same time ask him for a bet- ter and more effectual one. R. S. Hardwick. Jocassie, Hancock co., June'28lh, 1842, The Camellia. — Of this magnificent exotic there are several species and upwards of fitly varieties. The species known as C. Japonica and Seticulata, with their varieties, are in gene- ral cultivation in the Green Houses ol Europe and America. Some of the varieties of the Japonica, as for example, C. J. Variagata, the variegated red, are so hardy as to stand the open air, either as standards, or planted agains't a wall; particularly it their roots are protected during frosty weather. It may here be stated as an important fact, that many tender and half hardy plants will grow freely, and produce abundance of flowers, if their roots and collars are protected, in a temperature that would kill them immediately, it these tender parts were exposed to the influence of the cold. Camellias are commonly cultivated in sandy loam, and this soil is perhaps the best for them when they are grown in pots; but when planted out in the open ground, they will thrive exceedingly well in sandy loam, mixed with rotten dung, orleat- inould. When the plants are in a growing state, they require abundance of water, both the roots and over the leaves; taking care, how- ever, never to wet the leaves when the sun is shining upon them ; as whenever this occurs, the leaves become stained, or blotched, and look as though they were scalded. During the grow- ing season, the Camellia requires a temperature ot from fifty to sixty degrees, but when the flower-buds are formed it may be lower, till the beginning of winter, when the buds begin to swell. At this season, the temperature ought not to be suflered to fall below fifty degrees, oth- erwise the buds will be liable to drop ofi; and they will also drop if watering be neglected. It must be observed, that all the varieties of the Camellia Japonica cannot bear too much heat, and they prefer the shade to broad sunshine. Of the different species, C. Sasangua, and its beautiful variety, C. S. Maliflora, are the most tender. C. Seticulata is distinguished by the large size and brilliant colour of its flowers. It was, at first, thought tender, but it is now found to be quite as hardy as the Japonica. Propagation. — All the species and varieties may be propagated by cuttings, taken ofi at the base of a leaf, or at a joint, as soon as the wood is ripened, and planted in sand under a glass; but the finer varieties are generally propagated by layering, and inarching or grafting. The French Nurserymen have a very rapid mode of procuring plants by grafting, which they effect under bell-glasses, in strong moist heat, with scions of the young wood, on stocks formed of cuttings struck the same season. The above is taken chiefly from the Ladies’ Companion of the Flower Garden. Cow Pea. — There is no doubt, in the minds of many practical farmers, that the cow pea is the best renovator of worneut, or tired land, that can be used in the South. Plant early in May, be- tween hills of corn, and cultivate with corn|; the produce for hogs alone wall doubly pay all cost ; it will in reality almost equal the corn crop. The vine and foliage will not only shade the land, but protect from tbe washing, and afford a fine quan- tity of vegetable matter to turn under. The re- ports furnished by experienced farmers, in vari- ous parts of our country, particularly in south- ern countries, prove this beyond a doubt. The pea is the clover ol the South. — Plow Boy, 88 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. $l)e 0outl)ern ^ulttuatcrv. AUGUSTA, GA. VOff.. 111., I>0. 6 JUNE, 1845. To OUR Exchanges. — Many of the papers with which we exchange are still directed to us at Augusta, instead of Athens. Will those who have not already done so, attend to this, and oblige by directing to us at Athens, Ga,, in future? The Hessian Fly* The article in this paper, prepared for Mr. Ellsworth’s report, by Mr. Herrick, of Yale College, we cannot couamend too highly. Mr. H. is a gentleman distinguished for his habits of close and accurate investigation, and has de- voted a great deal of time and labor to the study of the origin, progress and modes of existence : of th is most destructive insect. It is to be hoped that the suggestion of Mr. Herrick, as to the best mode of exterminating it, will be univer- sally adopted. The Mind and the Soil of the South. The earnestness with which the minds of Southern men are beginning to be engaged in the improvement of the soil of the South, cer- tainly furnishes an occasion of very high grati- fication to every one who takes an interest in the welfare of the country. The proofs of this direction of the public mind are abundant, and are too strong to admit of mistake. We find them, in Virginia, in the establishment of a Stale Agricultural Society, with Edmund Ruf- fin as President, and a Vice-President for every congressional district in the State; and especial- ly in the very liberal support given by the pub- lic to the Southern Planter, published at Rich- mond by C. T. Botts. In North Carolina they are seen in the circulation of agricultural pa- pers and books among the people, and in the es- tablishment of an agricultural school under the care of Bishop Ives. In South Carolina we find them in the support given to two agricultu- ral papers, and the establishment of a State Ag- ricultural Society, with subordinate Societies in most of the districts of the State ; and in the very liberal provision made by the State for paying the expenses of agricultural and geolo- gical surveys. They are found in Alabama, in the establishment of a State Agricultural Soci- ety : and in Georgia, in the establishment of a 9 State Society, with the Governor of the State at its head; in the increase of County Societies, in which our distinguished men are taking the lead, as Governor McDonald in Cobb county, and Judge Berrien in Chatham; and in the in- crease of the circulation of agricultural papers among the people in all parts of the State. And in this connection we cannot forbear to men- tion that the Chatham County Society has or- dered twenty -five copies of the Southern Cul- tivator for the use of its members; and that the Hon. Robert Toombs has ordered fifty co- pies for gratuitous distribution among his con- stituents. Feeding Plauts.— -Hill-?‘ide Ditches. Many persons there are, still living, who re- member that one of the great inducements peo- ple had to breakup their establishments in the settled parts of the country, and move to “ the purchase,” as the different acquisitions of terri- tory from the Indians, in Georgia and Alabama were called, was the excellent pasture lor cattle afforded by the forests. The great abundance and luxuriance of the wild grapes, and wild pea- vine, and cane, every where, in “ the purchase,” enabled the domestic animals of the first settlers to live and thrive with very little care from their owners. Many persons seemed to think that this state of things would last always. It seem- ed never to have occurred to them that as the purchase was filled up with settlers, and the for- ests with their cattle, these native pastures, rich and luxuriant as they certainly were, would be exhausted. It has so turned out, however ; and now, no man having any pretensions to thrift thinks of his cattle being able to provide lor themselves, as they did formerly. They have to be led from the products of the soil obtained by the labor and care of their owners. Precisely the same thing has happened with our crops. Plants are living bodies, and require food, as well as animals. When the country was first cleared up, plants lound in the soil an abundance of their appropriate food, which had been accumulating there forages. This was the golden age lor planters. Corn, cotton, wheat, rye, oats— indeed everything committed to the soil grew wonderfully, and produced most abundantly, requiring not much more care than did the cattle of those days ranging in the woods. Manure was not thought of, except as a nuisance to be gotten rid of. But from, con- tinual cultivation the food for plants, originally existing in the soil, has become exhausted, just as the food for cattle in the woods has become exhausted by continual grazing. New lands were cleared and treated in the same way, until there is very little more land to clear. And now, having consumed what nature had fur- nished, we are compelled to provide food for our plants with the same care and assiduity that is necessary in providing food for our cattle. The kind of food to be provided for animals — that which suits them best — is easily ascer- tained. Offer food that is improper, and it is rejected at once. Plants likewise have the pow- er of choosing to some extent; but we cannot see the exercise of this faculty, as in the other case. No one would think of feeding his hogs with hay, or his horse with pork. But it is not so easy a matter to ascertain what kind of food best suits different plants. Let a practical plan- ter set about finding out, and it will take a year to make an experiment ; on wheat, for instance : and even after the experiment shall have been made, he will, most likely, be as much in the dark as before it was begun. If he put an abun- dance of stable manure on his land, he may find his wheat prosper wonderfully, perhaps, du- ring winter and spring; but when earing lime comes, disappointment may come with it. The wheal that promised so well, may either run up to straw, and have few grains in the head, r' the straw, from weakness, may not be able t sustain the head, or the whole field may be stricken with the rust. Now the planter may suspect that his wheat has been fed with impro- perfood. But how is he to ascertain that? By making another experiment, and using another kind of manure. This will require another year, and, perhaps, result as the other did, in disappointment. To avoid all this trouble and vexation, he must call in the aid of science. — That kind of knowledge, which has been so contemptuously called book knowledge, is the only thing that can remove the difficulty. Sci- ence tells us what wheat is made of — grain as well as straw — that nature, to make one perfect wheat plant, uses no less than fourteen distinct elementary substances; and farther, that unless the plant can find certain ingredients of grain and straw in the soil, we must supply them to the soil before we can expect our wheat crop to prosper. "Whether they are already in the soil must likewise be determined by science ; and what kind of manure contains them in a state and quantity most suitable for the digestive or- gans of wheat, can be determined in no other way so well as by calling on science for the in- formation. To this point— providing food for plants— a very large portion of The Cultivator has been devoted, because it is an essential one. All real improvement must begin with it. The manner of applying this food properly, after it has been provided, is the next important point. On this, as on the other, our paper has contain- ed a great deal of very useful information. But there is still a third — the best way to prevent the unnecessary waste of this food when it shall be applied — about which we have not yet publish- ed much, except as to one branch of it, and that is subsoil plowing. Enough has been said to arouse the public mind to the importance of that operation. But how prevent its waste, in this hot climate, by the influence of sunshine and rain, and also from our plants gorging them- selves with it? Mr, Ruffin has divulged that secret, in his “ Essay on Calcareous Manures.” Where the soil is sandy, clay must be added ; and sand to a soil too stiff from clay. But the great remedy is lime. This must be an ingre- dient in all good soils. It gives consistency to sand and makes clay friable. But the all im- portant agency exercised by it, according to Mr. Ruffin’s II eory, consists iu this;— that it fixes manure in the soil ; just as, in dying, the mor- dant fixes the color in cloth; thus restraining the influence of the sun and rain in dissipating it, and so modifying and restraining the action of plants as to prevent them from gorging them- selves with food, and bringing on a diseased action of their organs. After all our labor to provide food |for our THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 89 crops, and care to apply it properly to their nourishment, and assiduity to prevent tie waste of it, in this region ot heavy summer showers ol lain, we are liable to have the result of our la- bors swept away in an hour. How prevent this catastrophe! Subsoil plowing is unim- portant preventive, as it increases the absorbent powers of the earth wonderfully, and thus pre- vents, in all ordinary showers, every thing like the washing away of the soil from cur hill- sides, But to guard against disaster from the extraordinary showers that often fall, subsoiling alone won’t do. It would, in most cases, only serve to make the ruin more complete. Hill- side ditches judiciously arranged, and these alone, after subsoiling, will effectually protect us. These, wherever they have been tried, and have been properly constructed, have afforded perfect security. That they would do so was confidently asserted by theory; that theory was right in this instance, has been proved by prac- tice. Mr, John Cunningham, of G-reene coun- ty, will tell you so, if you ask him. Men have come from great distances to see his system of ditching. Mr, Hardwick, of Hancock, gives his experience on the subject, in an article in another part of this paper, which we cannot commend too strongly to the reader’s attention. Mr. Affieck, of Mississippi, gives the weight of his name in favor of hill-side ditches, in an in- cidental remark in his article on Bermuda grass, in this number of the Cultivator, And the committee that recently examined and re- ported on the condition of the farm of the Hon, J. C. Calhoun say, they “ were both gratified and instructed by the extraordinary management of Mr. Calhoun, by which, through the instru- mentality of guard drains on all his upland fi.elds, placed at such distances apart, and grad- ed in such strict conformity to hydrostatic prin- ciples, that his upland fields, even those of the greatest declivity, have su-stained almost as lit- tle injury from the heaviest falls of rains, as the rich low lands at their base.” We might add the testimony of many others to the same effect. Let this suffice for the present. A Suggestion. In connection with the fairs of our Agricul- tural Societies, we beg leave to make a sugges- tion which occurs to us as having a good deal of importance. At most of fhese fairs, premi- ums to a considerable amount, in silver cups or cash, are awarded. The object ot these as- sociations is to advance the interest, and elevate the character of those who are engaged in the great business of making bread, meat and clo- thing, out of earth, air and water; and one of the means of accomplishing this end is the dis- tribution of premiums to those who shall excel in this business. Now would not this object be more surely accomplished by investing the funds intended for premiums in agricultural books, and distributing them instead of the mo- ney 1 The Planters’ Club of Hancock County, will, at their fair in November next, distribute premiums to the amount of two hundred and fifty-six dollars. This sum, if invested in books on agriculture, would throw into that communi- ty an amount of information that would be very important, and the influence of which would be felt for generations to come. Two hundred and fifty six volumes of our best agricultural pa- pers might, with this money, be put into the hands of the planters of that county. We would particularly object to the use o^ silver cups as premiums, because they are aot made by our own mechanics; and the money used to purchase them, therefore, has to go North, thus adding to the drain upon our re- sources and industry that has brought the South to what it is. If books will not suit, better by far give the money that the cups would cost, un- til we can have cups made at home. Tlie Agricultural Press. The American Farmer, the oldest agricultu- ral paper in the United States, heretofore pub- lished in quarto, weekly, at Baltimore, at S’2 50 per annum, after the close of the present volume, is to be published monthly, in a large octavo form, each number to contain 32 double col- umn pages, and be embellished with engrav- ings— the price is to be reduced to one dollar a year. Mr. Skinner, the father of agricultural litera- ture in the United States, having been turned out of the office of Assistant Post Master Gen- eral, for opinion’s sake, has been engaged by Greeley & McEftath, to editfor them a monthly journal of agriculture. It is to consist of two parts: First, The Farmers' Library; and se- cond, The Monthly Journal of Agriculture. — Each part will contain about 50 pages every month, and the price of the whole will be fi.ve dollars per annum. Eluglisli Laborers. lathe fifth letter of D. S. Mitchell to the edi- tor of the Albany Cultivator, speaking of la- bo.'ers in England, he says: “In the barn, two laborers were threshing wheat upon a slate floor, with flails similar to those in use with us. Before f left, the threshers suspended labor for dinner; and what was it! Half a barley loaf, and a bit of cheese !— this eaten squat upon the straw, and moistened with a jug ot water, and cut in pieces with their pocket clasp knives. — This is no joke; it was their and yet a stone’s throwaway, lay the three hundred acre park for old oaks to fatten on, and herds of deer to dance over, and scores ot hares to trip about, and breed, and die upon. Let our farmers and farm laborers thank Heaven that they are not set down within the range of such odious con- trasts. And yet, and it is a shame to every man in America, who has a spot of land and a soul — these same laborers, dining on barley bread, will save enough of time and means, to put out the sweet brier at their cottage window, to train the ivy up their chimney side, and to keep the grass green and velvety at their door.” Errors. — In the last number of the Cultivator there were three errors that require correction. 1. In the last two lines of the article on “ The Agri- cultural Press,” “ extend the like amount of patronage o?t the Southern Cultivator,” for on read fo. 2. In the two last lines of the article preceding the extract from Mr. Gregg’s Essay, page 72, in the words, “who oirght to be scourged Jrom folty,” for Jrom, read Jbr our. 3. In the list of premiums of the Bowling Green Agricul- tural Society’s Fair, the President’s name is p'rinled Moadt. It should be Moody. Broom Corn— Bones-- Whip Handles, &c. The Ohio Cultivator gives us an account of three brothers, named Eaton, who have engaged in the production of broom corn, and the manu- facture of brooms, on a scale that will astonish many persons whose attention has been directed to the production of cotton exclusive!}'. One of the brothers resides near Columbus, Ohio, and is, this year, engaged in planting between five and six hundred acres of the rich land of the Scioto Valley in broom corn. Another brother resides at Circleville, twenty-fiv'e miles farther down the Scioto Valley, and is planting four or five hundred acres — making together about one thousand acres!! Besides this they have nu- merous contracts with small farmers in the sur- rounding country for as much as they can raise. All is, when gathered and properly prepared, sent over the Atlantic to London, where the third brother resides, and carries on a very ex- tensive manulactory of brooms. The demand for these brooms in England, is said to be un- limited: and the prospect is that these three brothers, by their enterprise, energy and indus- try, will soon make handsome fortunes— larger, perhaps, than will soon be made by planting cotton and selling at present prices. We add hereunto an article from a Cincin- nati paper, tor the purpose of giving our read- ers an idea of some ot the thousand and one ways there are in this world ot making, not on- ly a living, but a fortune too, besides planting cotton, or broom corn, or even packing and ship- ping sausage skins ; and ot showing how other people thrive by turning to account such things as we throw away as worthless. From the Cincinnati Chronicle. Bones— Whip-Handles — Ivory Black- Hoofs — Prussian Blue — Offal, &c.— I'his is a motley h“ading, but is exactly adapted to what we have to say. A tew days since we took a ramble up Deer Creek. We were not walking lor pleasure, although the atmosphere that encompassed us was fragrant with that we will tell by and by. "We hope that the word will not be driven from the English voca- bulary by this too tree use of it. The creek shore, above Ninth-street, is measurably lined, and in one instance, we believe, covered by slaughter-houses- sotne devoted to disposing of hogs, and others of cattle— tanneries, bone-mill, grease-irying establishments, and similar odo- riferous vocations; and in the winter season the stream should be known as Bloody run, for such it literally is, its color being nearly scarlet. A brewery adds its mite, as well as a steam lard and tallow manufactory, to the general aggre- gate of which the creek is the depository. But however undesirable is the brink ot this murmuring stream, the vale through which it runs is nevertheless a fountain of wealth. A- mong the establishments there is one which is a common receiver of nearly all the offal of the city slaughter-houses. From it is turned ont an immense amount of grease and inferior lard. A large proportion oi the daily market beef- legs and shanks are purchased by the proprietor, and after the marrow and grease are extracted, the bones are sold for the various purposes ot button-making, whip-handle finishing, the man- ufacture of China-ware, or porcelain, and also ivory black. Ol the latter, large quantities are used in the manufacture of shoe-blacking; and a mill in this noted vale is expressly appropria- ted to the grinding of bone, pith of horns,‘&c., for the manufacture of black. Of the small bone used for black and porce- lain, this house ships to foreign ports, mostly 90 THE SOUTHERN CU1.TIVATOR. liiiirope, about 4UJ.U'J0 lbs. per year ; and u! the large bone, whicn are iirinL'ipally used (or the lerrules and buns of \vhi[) stocks, and the man- ufacture of buttons, about 130, OOd pieces.— These quamities are e.'tclusive of the amount consumed here, which is very considerable, par- ticularly of the former kind. A lew years ago, nothing of the kiiiil was done here, and, as tar as bone was concerned, was entirely a waste. The prices here, are, lor the small, $16 per ten. A large contract closes with 1844, lor export to Europe, at that rate, packages included ; and for the latter, $10 per lOOO pieces. The price last year was $8. Soap grease is the great staple of this Vesu- vius, very large quantities of which are ship- ped to the Eastern cities. Forty thousand dol- lars worth was mentioned to us as the value of what is at this time on sale in New York alone. The prices here now are, four cents for No. 1, and three and a half for No. 2. One of the other articles made to a great ex- tent, is neals’foot oil, from The nether legs and hoof. This sells at wholesale at sixty -two to seveniy-five cents per gallon. Another is sausage skins, with which not on- ly our own market is supplied, bat shipments are constantly making to the South and East. — They sell nere at $10 per keg — size, the same as common lard kegs. Rogs’ bristles are another thing prepared by this atid other hou.ses, or house in the city, and of this article large shipments are also made, both of the combed and tied, used by saddlers, shoemakers, &•., and of the curled. Thefoi- mer kind sells at 20 to 25 cents per lb. The curled are used for the same purposes to which curled hair is a pplied— mailrasses, cushioned cbaiis, solas, &c. Whoever thought of repos- ing on a pig’s back ? One other thing we learned in this, our eve- ning ramble, was, that vve have with us a man- ufactory ol Prussian Blue. The stock from which it is made is cattle’s hoofs, and plucks, and the blood of hogs and cattle. The hoofs command $16 per ton. The manufacturer is a German. It is but a year or eighteen months .since U" commenced operations, and cannot be said to be I'-iuiy under way, but has suliieiently tested the experiment clearly to demonstrate the practicability of successfully competing wiili i.ne for-^i^n article, both a.s to quality and price, and be e.xpecis in a tew years tube able to con- sume a very large proportion of the blood' to be obtained here. W e were also told ol an instance of a foreign de nand for blood. Tlte facts we have stated are a few instances of the economy with which ‘■cience is capable of making us acquainted, and of the value of the skill by which it can be effected. Shall we cultivate the arts and scien- ce.^, and encourage skill and enterprise in our country] The Protective System. Though we have been frequently admonished by our friends not to meddle with any thing con- nec-ed, in the remotest deg.^ee, with politics; and though we stand pledged to the public to abstain from such meddling, yet we must for once disregard the admonitions, and violate our pledge. The temptation is so great, we can’t withstand it. The following article suits the state of things in the South so admirably, that we must republish it, let the consequences be what they may-' trusting, however, that our readers will overlook this deviation from our prescribed course, in consideration of the plea- sure they will have to find that even in Indiana, a State settled chiefly by Yankees, things are managed, in some respects, pretty much as they are in our own blessed land of sunshine and wastefulness. APLE.4FOR THE PROTECTIVE POLICY. Mr Hatch— Now that the heat of politics is somewhat subsiding, will you allow me to exhibit some of the disastrous results which 1 have witnessed in Indiana, by rea.son ot the al- most universal piejudice against a jnolcctive policy. 1 am very sure that there are sorfie chap- ters ill the subject of protection which our far- mers have not had presented to them. In con- sequence of the loose notions prevalent on this subject, almost all the farms of Indiana are tlesiitute of barns, stables, sheep-cotes, pig-pens, and hen houses. There are to be sure thingx very bumorou.s!y and hoxncaWy called stables. Seveial times during the pas', summer, sudden showers have driven me into these stables. — They are very artfully constructed; for while they seemed designed to protect from the rain and wind, they in fact are made to answer the purposes ot both. The shingles or clapboards are so arranged as to bring the rain in streams through into the enclosure ; and the sides are adjusted so as to produce an admirable draft for the wind. 1 do not know how a horse coukl be showered and chilled more effectually than in the Hoosier stables. But the great part of all the herds and flocks are left without any protection, through our trying winters, except such as their instincts can devise. To begin with the least; Turkeys and hens are lelt to roost upon trees, bushes, fences, well-curbs (and as looking down into the well might make them dizzy, they very properly turn their head the other way, which, besides being safer, ensures the concealment of their manure, otiierwi^e ofiensive to the eye.) The reasons for anti-prolection in this case are, doubtless: — 1. The necessity ol hardening the constitutions of fowls; 2. To give roosters finer astronomi- cal observations, that their crowing ti,me may correspond to the true sidereal time; 3. But chiefly as an act of reciprocity to coons, foxes and weasels, who are known to sympathize very heartily in the popular doctrines ot Free F ra.de. The condition in which sheepare left through the winter, shows that our tanners have calcu- lated that wool needs no protection. My sympathies are every year enlisted in be- half ol cows and cattle upon our farms, and in our villages. No one can walk the streets of Indianapolis, without meeting the supplicatory glances ol most forlorn cows at every nook, where they may hide from the piercing west and northern wind.- Many of them are left to sub- sist by picking at the dry grass, seared by the frosts, or by ranging the woods for weeds, and even tender shoots of trees. I have seen out- line cows craunching straw from crockery- crates, and litter from the stables, with a raven- ous appetite. Perhaps their owners think that a cow can make milk with straw as easily as the Hebrews did brick. But these operations are very different, I think, though I have not tried either. '\Ylieii 1 ventured one day meekly to expos- tulate with a crusty anti-proieciionist on the subject, he sharply told me to “go to grass with myself,” and I could only reply, “that his cow needed that mission more than I did.” Around our cabins, and about farm houses of more pre- tension, may be seen a bevy uf shivering ciea- tures— crumpled with cold, or drenched with chiding rains, or coated with sleet. In a still moonUghr night, when a sound may be heard for miles— when the cracking foot-steps ol' a benighted traveller would echo through a whole village, how often have I heard the melo- dious murmuring of some dozens of swine, which have crept into aheap in the open air, to keep themselves warm. Their views of the ruinous effect ol the anti-protecti ve policy, are uttered at first in staccato grunts — these now and then swell out to a longer cadence and quite a number in chorus. And as some little pig in- sinuates himself under some veteran, there com- mences such a performance by the whole com- pany, with varieties of' tone, movement, and pan, as I am bold to say, Mozart neverdreamed of with all his music. Waatever may be the effect of these notions against domestic I am entirely certain - . that they work ruin tu the gieai depaitmeni of Internal Improvement. I beseech of you to ex- ert your editorial authority to persuade our far- mers to redeem some of tlieir waste linie Irom politics and sprees, and devote it to the purposes of domestic protection. B. (JDriginal Commitnications, Plantation Economy. Mn. Camak: — It is really with some hesita- tion and misgivings that I venture to give you some of my ideas about farming in Georgia. There is so much agricultural bombast (mis- named scientific Agriculture) afloat, and the public taste appearing to receive that kind of thing so freely, that I fear any effort ol mine to stop that conduct, and get farmers to try my mode of thinking and acting, would be, not on y unsuccessful, but probably unpleasant; still, il would please me to be useful to the cause of ag- riculture, as I expect to devote the remainder of my life to that vocation ; and it is with me a bu- siness of love as wel> as profit. In farming, as well as in every thing else, every thing is simple when it is, well understood; and the fault is, not that we know loo little, but that we know too madi. In a way, we have a little smattering of every thing, from Liebig down; and are so exceedingly deficient in the simple elements and practical manipulations, that we are incapable of practically and econo- mically applying and using one useful idea. At the present prices of produce, 1 see no prospect of prices ever being very high again ; the principal profits of a farm must be derived from its economy ; — I mean in the application of labor, as well as in the use of its product: and no man can justly be called an economist, who does not attend to small mahers as well as small accounts. I go farther, f insist that no man can comprehend his business w’ell, nor construet those belter rules for its management, who is not intimately acquainted with the details; who does not understand well the elements of those ideas that he is attempting to systematize. Well, if this be true, what a deplorable eondition of things we have around us! How many of our agricultural teachers know any thing of the first elements, or the manipulations of the busi- ness they are lecturing on ] They can tell you all about ammonia, talk to you of oxygen, car- bonic acid, sub-soil plows, hill-side ditches, how to make manure in your stock lots, and spread it on your lands, and probably they may. know something of diastase and its function in a ger- minating seed. All these are useful ideas. I like to see them in their proper place, and intro- duced to the people in a practical way. But when they give us Iheir modus operondi, it is too expensive. We can’t dive too deep into na- ture’s laws, provided we succeed in getting truth ; but we can very foolishly and ruinously misap- ply— miseconomi-^^e a good idea. One of the great secrets in the success ol farming, is to be able to select and use cheaply the peculiar resources that each man finds about his particular location. Here is economy again, and requires an intimate knowledge of facts as well as discrimination'. In fact, we may go through any farm that I know of, and 1 believe that 20 per cent, can be gained by a more judi- cious or economical application of the resour- ces and efforts used, and pertaining to the farm. If this is true, would we not do well to com- mence our agricultural studies in the alphabet; and not commence reading until after we have past cru-ci-fz. Man has been defined to be a tool-making ani- mal. I believe when he goes into the field to work, he always takes some tools with him. Well, would it not be better tor him to alw’ays select the most suitable ones, and then learn how tou=e them to the best advantage? How much of the success of a farm depends on the plows used, and how few persons have devoted atten- tion to the structure and improvement of plows! On that subject I am sure great improvements can be made, and profitable economy used, both THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 91 in the application of horse-power, and thet utlay for plows. The same remark is applicable to many other tool.s, though I have not space to enumerate them. In reclaiming and fertilising our exhausted lands, much more can be effected by economy. Almost every farm and field has, contiguous to it, the elements of fertility that can be more cheaply used than the tedious process of hauling, to and from your farm-yard, litter and manure. For this you must study in the field rather than the books. The practice of deep or sob-soil plowing must be a powerful agent in fertilising, and improving the susceptibility of our ex- hausted lands. We had better study to under- stand this thing before we begin, else we will waste much labor as well as money, before we acquire the necessary tact: I see, on every farm, much labor expended in hauling manure. Would we not do well to cal- culate The difference in the expense and results of raising and turning under green crops, litter, or whatever we have near the field 1 I think much economy could be used there. On the subject of draining thoroughly all wet land, and ditching the hill-sides, so as to prevent washing, I believe all are now agreed; and I know, tiom experience, that much can be saved by understanding well the text, before you begin the commentary. I could extend this paper, by giving more ca- ses of bad economy in iarming, though this will suffice for an illustration. I am not opposed to cautious speculation in farming, but it should be used to illuminate, enlighten ; not to super- .sede, or supplant w’eil-tried practices. Farming is, essentially, a practical business; and none but a practical, successtul larmer should ever be high authority. Theory should be the hand- maid, not the head of farming institutions; and though we can, by carelul incredulity, improve our practices, by listening to the teachings of theory, there are lew nuisances that we should be more guarded against, if we aim to thrive by farming. I w'ill return, and urge again on my farming brethren to first study and improve, as much as they well can, on those ideas, practices and tools tbatihey expect tocontinue using on their farms. First make yourself master of that; then resort to the most successful practices and best experi- ence you have around you, or that you have in- herited from practical parents. Carry these home; modify and apply them to yciir peculiar wants. Make yourself familiar with the use of these', and then, w’hen you have leisure, and you can appropriate two hours every day, sit down and hold a friendly confab, w'ith those who do all their plowing in the shade. They will teach you how to spend money, and ho'w to do a great many foolish things on your farm. But il you will listen carelunly, aed select witHcaution, you may, once in a while, get a good idea from them ; a-nd one good idea, properly used on a l^rm, will pay for any ten agricultural papers in the United States. But before you spend money on a new idea, study it well, il you want to profit by farm- ing. I may, at some future time, if I have health and leisure, give you my ideas more in detail, on particular practices and projects, that I see proposed to farmers, if I should be vain enough to suppose I could be useful. Respecifuliv, J. S. Whitten. Mount Zion, May 6, 1845. Foi the Southern Cultivator. Cotton Culture. Mr. Camak ; — Having seen the report of Mr. R. P. Sasnett and others w'ho have been experi- menting upon Dr. Cloud’s plan of planting cot- ton, and having, in ’44, made a small trial my- self, and discovering that my result approached so near in quantity that of Mr. R. P. Sasnett, I am encouraged to report through your very use- ful periodical, the quanty of seed cotton which I grew per acre. The land, in a natural state, is a sandy ridge, had been cultivated several years, and was, consequently, somewhat e.x- hausted; perhaps six or eight hundred pounds might have been grown upon it, unassisted by manure. In ’43 it was not cultivated, but was used as a pasture for calves. In February of last year, 1 had the land broken deep with a scooter f low, alter which ! hauled out my ma- nure and laid it in piles at suitable distances. On the •2d of April, I laid off the rows at the distan'^e of 24 feet the narrow way. This was performed with a very narrow plow. On the 3 1 of April, the rows were run off the wide way, 4 feet, with a shovel plow, and the manure de- posited in the check, in such quantity as to near- ly fill the shovel furrow at each hill ; alter which the bedding or ridging was performed the wide way with a very simple kind of turn pi iw, leav- ing enough of the middies unplowed to retain the small scooter marks as guides in planting. On the 4th of April the ridges were opened with a small scooter and light stock, the seed rubbed in leached ashes, and a few dropped in each hill and covered with feet. The ground being dry at this period, the seed did not vegeta’e till after the fall of a shower, which was I5th April. — After the rain the middles were turned out. As soon as the cotton was up it was hoed, leaving three or four stalks in a hill. The seconu work- ing was performed by running a small plow round the cotton, and leaving the middles un plowed, and hoeing out, leaving two stalks in each hill. In June the middles were plowed and the cotton hoed. At this period I discover- ed that the cotton was not inclined to branch properly, and consequently I thinned it down to one stalk in a hill. At this time the plants were blooniing, and on many stalks several bolls were found. Early in July I plowed and hoed the ground very liohtlv, which finished the culture. On the Kith July I topped the cotton plants; i' branched so as to fill up the row the wide way, and produced Iwo thousand and thirty-four pounds per acre. Had the thinning been perlormed in proper time, I doubt not but that the product v/ould liave been larger. This fact is detailed as an error in the cultivation. One stalk in a hill is enough, and if thinned as soon as possible every body knows that fruit will be produced the. sooner. The manure used was “ compost,” prepared from stables. The kind of seed planted was Rio Janeiro. I shall sav something of this cot- ton in my next. Yours, Miles, Scarborough. Mi. Pleasant, Meriwether co., Ap^il, 1845, For the Southerii Cultivator. Mr. Camak: — Y/e ha"e, this day, held the spring meeting of the Barbour County Agri- cultural Society, the proceedings of which we will send you as soon as they are published. — The number of reports presented by the larm- ers to the Society, shovving the quantity of land planted in cotton, and the quantiiv in provision crops, compared w'ith 1844, will show' that, al though we are planting largely of cotton, still the provision crop is much increa.sed, with a considerable decrease of the cotton crop. We trust th*t our Society has' become firmly estab- lished in the affections of the farmers' of the country, and that the good effects of our associ- ation will be seen and tvlt throughout this region of country, in the improvement of itsagriculiure. We are rapidly passing into th.e year 18-15, and in a few more months the fate of the crop tt' ill be known. Up to the pre.sent time the pros- pects in this section ol country cannot be said to be flattering, owing to the considerable quantity of cold w'eather and frosts in the month of March, and the long continued drouth in the month of April, andeven op to the 10th of May, making near six weeks without rain : and when it is recollected that our sandy land soon swal- lows up the rain that falls, and becomes dry, the length of time that we have been without rain has been most seriously felt in checking the young crop in its growth, both corn and cot- ton. The oat crop, which is the pi incipal small grain of this section, has been greatly injured for w'ant of rain. Should the seasons be good Irom this time, the crop of the present year may be equal to that ol last year. As the subject of manures is everyday be- coming more and more important, 1 would be much pleased to see, in the Cultivator, well written essays on the proper and best plan of preparing manure. I noticed last summer, in the county of Elbert, Urge quantities ol oak leaves collected in the woods and thrown in piles, there to remain until spring, then to be ap- plied to the land. I have commenced the mak- ing of manure by hauling the pine leaves (as rny land is situated in the long-leaf pine coun- try) into a lot where my cattle are penned. I haul into the same lot the blue marl. My cat- tle are constantly penned on the straw and marl. From the effect, up to the present time, the most salutary results will grow' out of thissyste.m of manuring, as the cotton in the row's where we put the compost, is now twice as large as that where there w'as no manure put. I fwould also be much pleased it some of the contributors to the Cultivator would give, through its columns, the properties of the t>er- muda grass, as to its value for stock. 1 am disposed to give up rny hilly lands to the Ber- muda grass as a pa'^ture, and only cultivate the level lands, and inantire them highly. By this arrangement I think I can grow wool profitably in this climate. 1 see that Mr. Affleck, of Mis- sissippi, is out in favor of the Bermuda grass, and there is no man whose opinion I more re- spect than I do that of Mr. Affleck. The olive seed that you had the kindness to give e are not as yet up. Still I hope they will come up, as I am anxious to make a trial to raise the olive. We e.xpect, if spared, to spend the summer in the West and North. As we expect to make oiir trip, as far as w'e can. an agricultural one, should any thing take place, or should 1 see any thing th.it [ think will interest my brother fartu- er'^, I will write you. Your friend, Alexander rvicDoNALD. Eufaida, Barbour Co., Ala.., Alay, 1845. For the Southern Cultivator. J'iermuda Grass. Mr. Camak; — I find in your April No. a call upon Mr. Spalding and mvself for information on the subject of eradicating Bermuda grass. From my own experience I can give you but little information, i have made much inquiry, however, of others ; and the result is, together with what little experience I have had, that it is an extremely , difficult matter to ciadicate it entirely; but not at all to smother and check it, so tar as to permit the cultivation of any crop. Nor do 1 think it advisable to destroy it entire- ly ; as, it a proper system of rotation be carri- ed on, Bermuda should occupy the ground three years in seven— thus: 1,2 and 3 years, Ber- muda, catting a crop of oats the first year ; 4th, Egyptian or winter oats, (sow’ed the previous October, turning the Bermuda sod carefully and completely unde!' — which, by the way, requires one ol Ruggles, Nourse& Mason’s sod plow's) the oats foilqw’ed by a complete covering of peas; 5th, Corn, w'ith peas and pumpkins; 6th, Cotton; 7th, Cotton, with oats sowed amongst the cotton at the last lending— the treading will injure them but little — and alter the oats are cut, the ground is lel’i to be occupied by Ber- muda for three yeais again — which will not be the case, if the previous crops have been well managed, w'iihout replanting. Apply the ma- nure to the corn crop, and as a top-dres.sing to the Bermuda in March of the second year. Of course, the stock, with the exception of hogs and the sheep fattening for the butchers, have no bu- siness in the pea or corn field. The poorer spots, after receiving a dressing of manure, will be more rapidly improved and give a better re- turn by two successive crops of sw'eet potatoes, covering the vines up caretully each time, than by any other crop. Such a system will not only improve the land highly, each term, but it will allow of Bei muda grass being treely introduced. It would also directly enrich the planter, inasmuch as it would enable him to turn his attention to other things 92 THE SOUTHERN CUi^TIVATOR. than cotton; compel him to raise less ot that overdone crop; enable him to gather it much sooner and send it to market in better order, as he would assuredly gather much more to the acre; and it would, with the addition of a com- plete series of horizontal ditches^ entirely stop his land from washing. It is always remarked here, that no matter how poor the ground may be that is taken pos- session ol by Bermuda, It rapidly improves, be- coming dark-colored and mellow, and showing in the bettered appearance ol the corn, the im- provement that the soil receives Irom a cover- ing of this grass. I have never recommended the introduction ol this grass, without adding a caution as to the trouble it is certain to occasion under improper management. At the same time there is one queiy 1 should like answered — is it not better to cover with this grass the naked, exhausted, washed hills that have been thrown out as inca- pable ol being longer cultivated in corn and cot- ton with advantage, and which exist to the ex- tent of many thousands of acres in all the cot- ton growing States, even if it never could be era- dicated, than to leave them as they now are, ut- terly worthless and valueless] Few of the lands in this State or in Georgia, are so worn, but that a covering ol Bermuda grass could be had upon them, capable of supporting five head of sheep to the acre, and every year’s grazing would improve them. Had I such a larm as many 1 could name, I would infinitely rather cover it with Bitter Coco, than leave them as they now are. Even now there are many larmers in Ken- tucky, Ohio and Indiana, who dread the intro- duction of Blue grass on their farms, so trou- blesome is it under careless or improper man- agement. I do not consider Bermuda grass much more so. In the rotation recommended above, I have a special eye to the smothering of this grass. — With the oats sowed amongst the cotton, 1 should sow, and do sow, about a gallon ot red clover seed per acre, which afiords a fine bite after the oats are cut, and until the Bermuda covers the ground. True, red clover lasts but one year here —in the North it lasts two — ripening its seed and dying. But, il not grazed too close, there is enough o! seed dropped to cover the ground pretty well a second year. And whether or no, it far more than pays, in early and rich pastu- rage, the trouble and expense incurred. There are not near enough of winter oats grown in the South. They make a famous winter pasture, and are much better feed for hor- ses and mules than corn, costing, at the same time, much less labor to make, and leaving the ground unoccupied by the middle of May, lor a lull crop of that most valuable ot all our crops, c w peas. Volumes might be written upon the advanta- ges to the cotton planter of changing his present miserable practice of occupying two-thirds in- stead of two-sevenths of his land in cotton, and of giving the attention they deserve to oats, cow peas, sweet potatoes, Bermuda grass, clo- ver, c>irn, hogs and sheep, home manufactures, &c , &c. Years of toil on the part of our agri- cultural editors, and other friends of improve- ment, will be required before much can be ef- fected. 1 fear that improvement and change for the better, have received a sad chock from the recent urifortunate rise in cotton. It will be the means of materially increasing the already ex- cessive over production. Let me congratulate you on the improvement you have already effected in the Southern Cul- tivator; and urge upon the farmers of Georgia to come out and give us a proper insight into the state ol things in that State. Yours, truly, Thomas Affleck. Ingleside, near Washington, Miss., April, 1845. For the Southern Cultivator. Wool. Mr. Editor: — I beg to offer the following statement of the yield ol wool from a small flock of Leicester sheep which I have just had sheared; and, at the same time, will remark that they have not been once fed during the past winter, having been on a rye lot of 10 acres the whole time. If any of your reader’s flocks can beat the yield, I would be glad to hear from them. I have a few young Bucks lor sale. Augusta, May 25. B. H. Warren. Mr. Warren:— A ccording to your directions, I had sheared last week your twenty Leicester sheep. Their yield was 112 lbs. of wool. The young buck’s fleece was 10 lbs. ; the old one lbs. It may be proper to remark, that three out ot the twenty sheep were late lambs, and not lull grown — so that some allowance should be made for them. Very respectfully, John W. Morriss. Bedford Farm, May 1, 1845. For the Southern Cultivator. Tanning on the Plantation. Mr. Camak: — I see in your last Cultivator directions for plantation tanning, by Mr. Af- fleck ot Mississippi. Having tanned my hides for a number of years, and believing it to my interest, I suppose it will be profitable to others who have many raw hides. I have succeeded well, and think my leather firmer and n>ore valuab e for negro shoes, and the coarse harness on my farm, than tan-yard leather; and as my plan is a much cheaper one than Mr. Affleck’s, and as economy is my hobby- horse, I just thought I would ride him out this morning to keep him healthy. ‘ I tan from 10 to 15 hides a year, of various sizes. I have two vats 5 by 7 feet, 4 feet deep, sunk in the ground near a falling branch, so constructed at the bottom that I can draw a plug and wash and empty them, I begin in March ; soak my hides ten days in running water. Two or three times I take them oat and give them a good rubbing or washing. They are then ready for the lime, as we call it. I then put them in one of my vats, and divide equally among them from 3i to .5 bushels of good ashes and 2 or 3 quarts of lime, and cover the whole in water. — The lye had better be strong, and if you err, err on that side. Every lew days 1 take them up, or rather stir them up, and mix them again, so that all parts shall be equally acted on by the lye and the atmosphere, in the top and the bot- tom ol the vat. If your ley is right, in 10 or 12 days your hides will be thickened to two or three times their first thickness— feel more like a sheet of jelly than any thing else, and the hair will slip easily. Then slip off the hair, and with a drawing knife or a currying knife, scrape off the loose flesh and cellular matter on the other side, and as much of the lye as you can, without bruising the hide : and then put them back into fresh and clean water. Every other day take them up and give them a good rub- bing or scouring, for 10 days. They are then ready fiir the bark ; and by that time you can slip the bark off your oak trees and have it rea- dy for the hides. I never grind my bark. I take it from the tree, and with a drawing knife, takeoff the rough on the outside, and just beat it enough to cause it to lie flat in the vat. In my other vat I do all my tanning, and commence with a layer of bark, then of leather, and so on; and so lay it in the vat that every part of each side of the leather shall lie against bark ; and when I am done, I immerse this entirely in water. The first year you had better boil an ooze in kettles or pots, and use that instead of water, and afterwards always preserve your old ooze to use next year instead of water. I let this lie until the 1st ol August, and put in a second bark precisely as the first, and let it lie until sometime in October or November, when my leather is fully tanned, if these directions have been followed. When the leather is well tan- ned, it presents a yellow, spongy appearance, through and through ; otherwise, you will see a white or hard streak in the centre. When I take it up 1 scour the ooze well out of all. — That 1 intend for sole leather, 1 straighten and dry; that for upper leather, I wash well, then grease well with the cheapest oil 1 have, and af- ter drying 8 or ten days, 1 moisten it, curry off the spungy, soft part from the flesh side ;. and when moist, beat it or break it over some rough surface until it is comparatively soft, and the grain side is all puckered up, or wrinkled into small wrinkles. Then, when my leather is thoroughly dried and shrunk, it is fit for use. Respectfully, J, S. Whitten.- Mount Zion, May, 1845, For the Southern Cultivator. Berkshire Hogs* Mr. Editor: — When a boy, it was a part of my business to feed the sows and pigs. From- habit, or a partialityfor “ old Ned,” or a swi-- nish disposition, I became fond of hogs. This early attachment has not left me. I love to feed them, and to rub them, and to read about them too; in such books, lor instance, as the “Amer- ican Swine Breeder.” I give my .pigs big names, such as “Sam Jones,” “ Ben Sherrod,” and “Prince Albert.” They seem to know their names, and I think are just as worthy of them as some bipeds are to be dubbed General. “ Victoria''^ is a favorite name with me. Y"ou know she is said to be often “ in a delicate and nteresting situation,” and I like to have her gord example imitated. It is the best way to increase the stocks. While reading the Southern Cultivator for April, I came to a piece headed “ Berkshire Hogs,” and signed by “One of the Buckets.” Formerly there was a man in this county some- times called '-Ned Bucket ;” ’tis said he went to Texas and did some tall walking after he got there. This “ One" may be some of the same family: but — I don’t know — people are mistaken sometimes. “ One of the Buckets,” it seems, like your humble servant, is fond of hogs, and especially Berkshires. He, like many others, has suc- ceeded finely with them. I am glad that he has. He seems to think that I have net succeeded because I did not feed them. Now, I suppose Bucket guesses we don’t make much corn down this way, and that ’tis root hog or die." Well, I wish he may never be deceived worse than when he thought so. I recollect reading a long time ago, in some old book, about a man who tried to learn his mare to live without eating. He curried, and brushed, and rubbed, and did all that sort o’thing The poor mare remonstrated, and told him, food would do better without currying, than currying without food. Her remonstrances were disre- garded, and just as her education was complet- ed, she unfortunately died. Some years since, I walked three long summer days, the 4th, 5th and 6th of July, in the woods bordering the Okefenokee Swamp, without meat or bread, or even a “ substitute,” good or bad. From what I have read, and from my own experience, 1 have come to the conclusion that quadrupeds, and bipids too, feel a little more cheerful, and do a little better, when they have good appetites, and a plenty ol something good to eat. I have not tried to raise hogs on the wind. “ Bucket” tells some very pretty things about the Berkshires, and I do not doubt a single word he says. He has succeeded finely ; '‘but mind,he feeds them." Ah! there is the secret. He does not try to raise hogs w'ithout “corn," or a “good substitute." That word “feed” is a comprehensive term ; I don't understand it, and would be glad if “ Bucket” would explain. I will just give a short history ol “my way,” and “ Bucket” will be the better able to point out my errors, and others may guard against them also. Heretofore I had led my hogs in the woods, with com, turned them on grain fields in summer, cn peas and potatoes in the fall, and finished off on a floored pen. I had the scrub stock of the country, with a dash ol the Cobbett. I raised plenty ol pork and to spare. Butl had heard and read about the Berk- THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR 93 shires. They grew large, had beautilul t'orins, splendid hams, paid better for their keep than any other breed, and fattened kindly at any age. My hogs generally were not quite large enough. Sometimes one would reach three hundred, but not often. I wanted bigger ones, 1 must keep pace with my neighbors, Berkshires I must have. An opportunity soon offered, 1 pur- chased a pair of pigs of the importer himself, (and a gentleman too,) some of old England’s tei— paid sixty dollars cash— no mistake about it, I had heard something about the Yankee way of cooking and mixing and so on. Well, i thought I could do as well as the Yankees, and that 1 would do the thing right. One of Mott’s agricultural furnaces was ordered and brought home, A fine steam mill is hard by, owned by clever folks, and very convenient to turn corn into meal, ’Twas not long before I had a hun- dred or more full blood and half blood Berk- shire pigs. It so happened we had plenty ol corn and potatoes; a fine turnep patch, and more cole worts than we could eat. I had seen some good hogs raised in Georgia, and some good ones brought from Tennessee and Ken- tucky ; 1 had heard of Dr, S. D. Martin’s Wo- burns, of A. B. Allen’s Berkshires, of the Bed- ford, of the Suffolk, and of the improved Chi- nese hog, &c., and I intended to raise (for 1 had of old England’s best) just as good as the best. Corn was sent to mill, potatoes dug^ vegetables gathered, and Aaron went to cooking. The kettle was filled with com meal, turneps, or coleworts, and potatoes; water was added, and the whole boiled until thoroughly done. My pigs were fed with this food three times a day, all they would eat. Corn on the cob lay by them all the while. I have now tried the Berk- shires four years, 1 have had plenty of corn and to spare all the lime. I have taken more care, and had more attention paid to my hogs, than ever before. They have been kept and fed in the woods and in the field, in lots and in close pens, sheltered and bedded; they have been fed on corn alone, and on corn with '‘good substitutes,” and on raw food and on cooked food. The result is, I have not succeeded ; the Berkshires have paid less for their keep than any hogs I ever had. ‘I wish to be distinctly understood, 5 do -not presume to say the Berkshires have not done well in the hands of others. lam aware they have been highly prized by intelligent and prac- tical men; men of good judgment and of un- doubted veracity. I dispute no man’s word, and impugn no man’s motives. 1 speak of my own experience and lor myself only. 1 acknowledge 1 have not fed Berkshires — to profit. But my friend Bucket" Ah! he feeds his hogs" Will he tell me how '? Houston county, April, 134d. Clodhopper. For the Southern Cultivator. A Freak of Nature. Mr. Camak: — Sir — The Siamese Twins are a great curiosity, and rendered the more so, as they were a f reaK of Nature in the -human spe- cies, I have one to communicate, which I think much greater, and were it not that it is from the brute instead of human nature, it would greatly transcend the former, as to the in- teiest it would excite in the curious. I send this statement to you, and if you think proper, you may give it a place in your Cultivator, not that it is exactly appropriate for such a jour- nal, but that it may interest some of your read- ers, as many of them are engaged in rearing horses and mules; and because, too, as a sub- scriber to your valuable paper, I wish to cast in my mite of that which might interest. On the •29th of March, I had a mare that foa'ed i mule colt, (or colts, I do not know which to all it,) of fuli size, though dead when I found t, with two perfect heads and necks coming andsomely out of one perfect body, without my deformity , and each head and neck as lar^e is we would suppose the body ought to have, *ad it but one. I had it skinned as neatly as I ■ould, and stuffed with bran ; and this was done in the presence of Di. B. F. H,ea; and on ex- amination, he found it had two hearts and two stomachs, connected with one set of intestines, thus far forming two distinct organizations, partly separate, as in the heads and necks, then blended in one body, partially through a part of the internal organs, and then strangely united in one, as to the balance, such as intestines, legs, &c. &c. it any one -wishes to see the skin of this strange anomaly of nature, I invite him to call at my house in Greensboro and he can do so, and after my friends have seen it, I propose to have k placed in some well regulated Museum. Respectfully, yours, &c. W. W. D. Weaver. Greensboro' , April2G, 1845. For the Southern Cuitivalot. Mr. Camak: — In renewing to you the -assu- rance of another year’s acquaintance, I felt gratified at the course the Cultivator was tak- ing; and have had one unitonn belief, that it will conduce to the essential interests of Geor- gia- Falling over from an honorable prolession to agriculture, I wish that my knowledge of me- dicine could be transferred to agriculture. I wish I could approach the subject with as much confidence as I think I may touching clinical cases, i will promote our interest better by in- quiry than an exposition ol any imperlect no- tion i may have in planting, cultivating or gathering. These three years past the trees in my apple orchard have dropped their fruit from the time it begins to form until it ripens. Now, under the trees, you may find all siees, from a garden pea to a hickory nut, covering the ground. In March a few of the trees had curled leaves. — The blossoms were yellowish, sickly, and fell off. The balance of the orchard looked thrifty, but the trees are afflicted with the same scourge tliey have been these three years. Opening the repudiated fruit we find, through all its sides to centre, a dark passable made by some insect, whose form and action the eye cannot discover. In the centre of the apple we find, sometimes, a maggot, but the parent I know nothing of only from its influence. I have read somewhere that by beating the trees in the evening, with cloths spread underneath, the insect might be caught and burned. I have not found it so; and the mischief will go on until the insect gets too weak, or the fruit too strong, to continue the nBsehief. Late planted cotton has not come up, and that on dry clay soil is no better. Other well-brok- en land and early plantings get along belter than could be expected from such deep and extensive drouth. The oat crop is cut off— its scantiness was never known before. That sown early is shooting half ancle high — that later, is ashamed to head at all. But relying on the Cultivator’s theoretic, we expect yearly to amend our proc- tiques, and by acquiring other resources ot the State, (which it maybe capable of, )to bring us to that stale of independence the planters en- joyed in years gone by. I salute the editor with the courtesy ol friendship, and trust its guidings may, in future time, be quoted as a standard to better informed agriculturists. Afay, 1845. N. Crawford. Excretory Duct of the Feet of Sheep. — Chancellor Livingstor, IstPresidentof the N. Y. State Agricultural Society, says, the legs of sheep are furnished with a duct, which terminates in the fissure of the hoof; from which, when the animal is in health, is secreted a white fluid, but when sickly, the ducts are stopped by the harden- ing of the fluid. He says he has, in some in- stances found that the sheep wsre relieved, by merely pressing out the hardened matter with the finger from the orifice of the duet in each toot ; it may in some cases be proper to place their feet in warm wa'er, or to use a probe or hand brush for cleansing this pas-sage. — Farmers' Cabinet. 5^ An hoar’s industry will do more to beget cheerfulness, suppress evil humors, and retrieve your aflairs than a month’s moaning. '[l.grirultural llketings. Agricultural Meeting in Chatham. At an adjourned meeting, held on the l6th ult., at the Court House in Savannah, lor the purpo.se of crgani-sing an Agricultural Society, a respectable number ol Planters, and others en- gaged in agricultural .pursuits, were present; John Lewis, Esq. in the Chair, and Geo. P. Harrison, Acting Secretary. The minu'es of the last meeting were read and confirmed. On motion, the Constitutkni, adoyaed at the last meeting, was reconsidered, and after one or two slight amendments, was adopted. The By-Laws, reported to the last meeting, were then taken up by sections, and alter various amendments, were adopted. The meeting then proceeded to organise the Society, by electing officers under the, Constiiu tion . When the Hon. J. M. Berrien was unani- mously elected to fill the office of President, and John Lewis, Esq., of Chatham County, Thomas S. Clay, Esq., of Bryan County, and Clem. Pow- ers, ,Esq. of Effingham County, were elected to fill respectively the offices of First, Second and Third Vice-Presidents. The President elect being absent, John Lewis, Esq., First Vice-President, resumed the Chair, The Society then proceeded to till the remaining offices; and the following gentlemen were elected to the same, viz: George J. Kollock, Corres- ponding Secretary, George P. Harrison, Re- cording Secretary, Samuel C. House, Treasu- rer; Robert G. Guerard, Lihi.arian; and Dr. William H., Cuyler, George Jones, William D. Hodgson, William P. Bowen, and Dr. John S. Law, were elected to compose, with the Presi- dent and three Vice-Presidents, ez officio, the Board of Managers. It was then, on motion — Resolved, That the Corresponding Secretary of the Society be directed to subscribe to such a number of copies of the Southern Cultivator as will be necessary to supply each member with a copy, on the best terms that can be done ; and also to retain one capy, to be de- posited with the Librarian, for the use of the Society. Resolved, That the Corresponding Secretary, in certain rules for the production ot varieties in flowers can be laid down, except by the aid of hybridising, (210.) 167. It often happens that a single branch produces flowers different from those ];roduced on other branches. This i.s technically called a sport. 168. As every bud on that branch has the same specific vital principal (113,) a bud taken from such a branch will produce an individual, the whole ol whose branches will retain ihs character of the sport. 169. Consequently, by buds an accidental va- riety may be made permangnt^if the plant that sports be ot a firm woody nature, (98.) 170. As ftc-wers feed upon the prepared sap in their vicinity, the greater the abundance of this prepared ibod, the more perfect will be their development. 171 . Or the lewer the flowers on a given branch the more food they will severally have to nour- ish them, and the more perlect will they be, 172. The beauty of flowers will therefore be increased either by an abundant supply of lood or by a diminution of their numbers (thinning,) or by both. The business ol the primer is to cause these by his operations. 173. The beauty of flowers depends upon their free exposure to light and air, because it consists in the richness of their color's, and their colors are only formed by the action of those two agents, (281.) 174. Hence flowers produced in dark or sha- dy confined situations, are either imperfect or destitute of their habitual size and beauty. 175. Double Flowers are those in which the stamens are Irdnsi'ormed into petals; or in which the latter, or the sepals, are multiplied. They should not be confounded with Proliferous (183,) and Discoid Compound Ploivers (184.) 176. Although no certain rules for the pro- duction of double Flowers can be laid down, yet it is probable that those Flowers have the greatest tendency to become double, in which the sexes are habitually multiplied. 167. In Icosandrous and Polyandrous plants, either the stamens or the pistilia are always very numerous when the flowers are in a natural stale ; and it is chiefly in such plants that double Flowers occur, when they become transformed. 178. It is therefore in such plants that double Flowers are to be principally expeeterl. 179. In proportion as the sexes of Flowers habitually become few in number, do the in- stances of double Flowers become rare. 180. Double Flow'ers are therefore least to be expected in plants with fewest stems. 181. Whenever the component parts of a flower adhere by their edges, as. in nionophyl- lous calyxes, monopetalous corrollas, and mo- nodelphous, or polyadelphous stamens, the tendency to an unnatural multiplication of parts seems checked. 182. Therefore in such cases double Flowers are little to be expected they are, in fact, very rare. 183. Proliferous Floviers are those in which parts that usually have all their auxiliary buds dormant, accidentally develop such buds; as in the Hen and Chickens Daisy, in which the bracf.eas of the involucrum form other Daisy- heads in their axillae; or, as in certain Roses,, in which the capillary leaves develop leaf-buds in their axillae, so that the flower becomes a branch; the lower leaves of which are colored and transformed, and in their ordinary state. 184. Discoid compound Flowers are those in which the central florets of a flower-head ac- quire corollas, like those of the ciTcumfereace, as in the Dahlia ; the cultivated variety of which should be called discoid, and not double, 185. These two last are so essentially differ- ent from double Flowers, that whatever laws may be supposed to govern the production or ’HE SOUTHERN GUETIVATi amelioration of double Flowers, can have no relation to proliferous or discoid Flowers. VII, SEXES. 186. The sexes consist of two or more whorls of transformed leaves, of which the outer are called Sia-'tiens (183,) and the incxcr Fishlliim, (191.) 187. They are known to be modifications of leavesj because they frequently are transformed into petals which are demonstrably such f 149,) and because they occasionally revert to the state of leaves. 188. The stamens bear at their apex an or- gan, called the author, which contains a powder called 'pollen. 189. When the anthor is full grown it, opens and emits the pollen, either dispersing in the air in consequence of the elasticity with w'hich it opens; or deposuig it upon the stigma (191,) or exposing it to the action of wind, or such other disturbing causes as may liberate it from it.s case. 190. The- pollen consists of exceedingly min- ute hollow balls, or cases, containing myriads of moving particles, which are the fertilizing principle of the stamens. 191. Thepislillum has at its base one or more cavities or cells, in which bodies called ovnla are placed; and at its apex one or more secre- ting surfaces called stigmata. 193. The uvula are the rudiments of seeds. 193. If the fertilizing powder of the pollen come in contact with the stigma, the ovula in the cells of the pistillum are vivified, and be- come seeds. 194. But if this contact does not take place the ovula cannot possibly be vi'vified, but shrivel up and perish. 195. The phenomenon of vivification takes place in consequence of the descent of a por- tion of the moving particles (190) of the pollen into the ovula, where such particles form the commencement of future plants. 196. In wild plants a stigma is usually acted upon only by the pollen of the stamens which belong to it. 197. In this case the seeds thus vivified will, when sown, produce new’ individuals, differing very little from that by which they were them- selves produced. 193. A nd, therefore, wild plants are for the most part multiplied from generation to gene- ration without change. 199. But it is possible to cause deviations from this law, by artificial means. 290. If the pollen of one species is placed up- on the stigma of another species, the ovula will be vivified ; and what is called, a hybrid plant will be produced, by tliose ovula when they shall have grown to be seeds. 201. Etybria plants are differenl from both their parents, and are generally intermediate in character between them. 202. Th'^y have little power of perpetuating themselves by seeds, but they may if woody be perpemated by cuttings (3i2,) buds (354,) sci- ons (335.) &c. 203. riierefore, no hybrids but such as are of a wuody perennial character can be perpetu- ated. 204. It usually happens that the hybrid has thr ctinstitoli ,n and general aspect of the polli- ;niferous parent; but is influenced in secondary char-acier.s by the peculiarity of the female pa- rent. 205. 4'his sh 'uld alvvays be borne in mind in prorunrg ' -w hybrid plants. 20t; [teailv uybtid plants must not be con- founded vvi;!i -uch as are spaceous. in conse- quence of mcir ontrin being between two vari- eties ol me satne species, and not two species cd the same genus. 307. Hybrid plants, although u'ncapable of perpetuation by seed, are often more abundant flo'.verers than either parent. 208 This is probably connected with consti- tutional debility, (162.) Pennyroy.al, it is said, if woven in Iheir nests, will protect hens from vermin. FraiiMiii College, FIVE MILES EAST OF NASHVILLE, TENN. This Institution, which is the first of the kind that has been attempted in America, will com- mence its first session on Wedne.sday, the first day ol January, eighteen hundred and forty-five. Franklin College was chartered by the Legis- lature of Tennessee, January 30th, 1844. Since which time a kitchen 24 by 20 feet, a dining room GO by 30, and a college edifice 120 by 40 feet, three stories high, containing a large hail, rooms for societies and recitations, and fifty rooms for students, have been erected, and will be in readiness by the time specified. I’h?' buildings are of brick, and Ihe workman.ship is of the most substantial character. The Trus- tees believing confidently ihis Institution will be a decided improvement on the pre.sent plans of training youth, and a permanent benefit to the country, avail themselves of this means of pre- senting to the public, a synopsis of the system which will be adopted, the names of the faculty, costs of the establishment, &c. The charter contemplates a combinaiion of physical, intel- lectual and moral culture, and the Trustees and Officers are of the opinion, this is the only plan upon which an energetic, intellectual and moral race can be reared up. 1. Piiysic.4L Dep.-irtment.— Tosecure heahh, vigorous constitutions, sound minds, and good raorahs, a sufficiency of Agriculture to teach the properties and improvement of soils, the proper cultivation of the diflerent grains and grasses, andthe management of larm stock, also horticulture and orcharding in all their branch- es, and the mechanic arts, will be introduced. Each student, as an indispensable part of his education, will devote from two to five hours per day, to some one or more branches of phv- sical industry. The profits accruing from t he labor, after paying for materials, and rents, will belong to the students. This is the system which has been adopted in the best colleges ol Europe, and it is fondly believed no department will be more pleasant than the physical in the United States, when properly understood and put into practice. Thus the rich will be taught the value of property, and indigent and aspiring young men, will acquire the means of paying for their education. 2. Intellectual Department. — As lull a course of English and classical literature, math- ematics and general science will be adopted as at any College of the United States. A fist ol books will be given, with the laws of the Insti- tution, so soon as the Faculty can convene. 3. Moral Department. — Under this bead will be introduced Sacred Histoiy, Music, Dis- cipline and personal accomplishments. The Bible, Ancient Geography, History and Dic- tionaries, will be the only books employed in Sacred Historv. Music will be a daily exer- cise ol the College. The discipline will be firm but parental. A plain and cheap uniform will be selected so soon as circum.stances will justi- fy, and the greatest pains will be taken to im- prove the manners ol students. In addition to the regular College department of Freshmau, Sophomore, Junior and Senior classes, there will be a Juvenile and Preparato- ry department. Boys after arriving at the age of five years will be taken into the Juvenile de- partment, and a teacher or teacheiV will spend the whole time with them. In the Juvenile department the first principles of English Education will be taught. In the Preparatory Department, students will be made ready for the regular classes of the College. The collegiate year will consist of one-ses- sion of ten months or forty-two weeks, and no student will be taken for a less time, or from the time of entering to the close of session, and it the entry is made within two months ofthe open- ing of the session full price will be charged. One day in each month will be set apart for vi- siting. Half the expenses will be required when students enter College, and the balance vrill be due the first of June in each year, and if the fees are not paid at the appointed time, interest will be charged. Charges.— Plain, substantial and wholesome tare, comfortable rooms and fire wood will be furnished at SG9 F®*" annum. Tuition fees in the Juvenile Department will be S20. in the Preparatory class, $30, in the College proper, $40. Five dollars will be required from each student as a matriculation tee, for the purpose ot purchasing books and apparatus. Thus it will be observed the whole cost of boarding, room rent, fuel, and tuition will range Irom $80 to $100 per annum. Students ivill Inrnish their own rooms, and pay tor them washing; also the Professor of Music will be entitled to a small extra tee. Faculty. — Tolbert Fanning, President and Proiessot of Intellectual and Moral Science, Natural History, Agriculture and Horticul- ture; I N. Loomis, Professor of Mathematics, Chemistry, Mechanic Arts, and Assistant Pro- fessor of Horticulture ; John Eichbaiim, of Tenn., Prutessor ot Ancient Languag-.s, and Assistant Professor of Aigricullure and Fiorti- culture; E. S. Chandler, of Ohio, Professor of Music; A. J. Fanning of Mississippi, Princi- pal of Preparatory Department ; P R. Runnels, of Tennessee, Principal of the Juvenile Depart- ment, B. Embry, Steward, and Principal of the Boarding tlonse, under the advice and direc- tion of the Faculty. Tru-stbes. — T. Fanning, Jfto. W. Richard- son, Stewartsborough, Tenn., Geo Vv. Martin, Nashville, James H. Foster, do., Edward Tra- biie, do., B. Embry, do., W. H. \v barton, do , Turner Vaughan, Ladago, Tenn,, Jno. Simp- son, Sparta, Tenn.,,Jno. A. Gardner, Gardners, ville, Tenn., Thus. Martin, Pulaski, Tenn., D. G. Ligon, Moulton, Ala., David King, Russell- ville, Ky., Jno. Shelby, Nashville, Andrew- Ew- ing, do., Beverly Nelson. Mt. View, Tenn., J. R. Wilson, Nashville, Frank McGavock, do. A limited number ol Students will be laken, and applications may be made through the Pre- sident or Secretary, B. Embry. Persons who have indulged their sons in habits ot idleness and extravagance, will please not apply for situ- ations, and it is the request ofthe Trustees that none shall attend the Institution, who are not determined to be educated, and who cannot bear the strictest government. Jassimine. — The Jassimine is celebrated more for the delicacy of its odor and flowers, than for the pretty love legend connected with its Euro- pean history. The custom which prevailed in some countries, of brides wearing Jassimine flowers in their hair, is said to have ari.sen from the following circumstance: a grand duke of Tuscany had, in 1699, a plant of the delicious- ly-scented Jassimine of Goa, w'hich he was so careful of, that he would not suffer it to be pro- pagated. His gardener, however, being in love with a peasant girl in the neighborhood, gave her a sprig ot t.bis choice plant on her birthday ; and he having taught her how to make cuttings, she planted the sprig as a memorial of his affec- tion. It grew rapidly, and every one who saw it, admiring its beauty and .s\veetne.ss, wished to have a plant of it. These the girl supplied from cuttings, and sold them so well, as lo obtain enough money to enable her to marry her lover. The young girls of Tuscanj', in remembrance of th is adventure, always deck theni-selves on their wedding day with a nosegay ol Jassimine, and they have a proverb, “ that she who is wor- thy to wear a nosegay of Jassimine is as good as"a tbrtune to her husband.” — Weslern Cull. Subsoil Plows.— Tn many soils, not otherwise rich enough for corn, it would be a good practice to make a furrow six inches deep, in the fall with a common plow, then let a subsoil plow run in this furrow ten or twelve inches more; and it would be still better to put cornstalks and other manure in th's trench, and list it in, when thor* oughly wet, with a small plo« or hoe ; the land to remain in this state till planting time. The subsoil plow is valuable ; by its use the soil will be less wet in great rains, and more moist in ■greatdrouth. Where the subsoil plow is used, in 98 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. comparison with only th"- common plow, the yield will be fifty per cent, more, and the crop in dry weather always green. The subsoil plow has doubled and frequently trebled the crops in England. — Farmer and Gardener. Cotton Beds.— A Good suggestion. We find the following in the Albany Cultiva- tor Cotton beds are becoming very much in use on steamboats on the Western rivers, and they are considered superior to any kind but hair : Cotton Beds. — We have received from J. A. Guernsey, Esq., a copy of the “ Southron,” published at Jackson, Mississippi, containing some remarks on the advantages of cotton lor bedding. These advantages may be summed up as lollows. It is claimed that “it is the cheapest, most comfortable, and most healthy material for bedding, that is known in the civi- lized world.” In addition to these, may be nametl superior cleanliness; vermin will not abide it: there is no grease in it, as in hair or wool; it does not get and acquire an xin- pleasant odor, as leathers do ; moths do not infest it, as they do wool; it does not pack and be- come haul, as moss does; nor does it become dry, brittle and dusty, as do straw or husks; and in many cases medicinal.” It is said not to cau.se ihat lassitude and inertia, which is pro- duced by sleeping on feathers. People not ac- quainted with it, have supposed they have been sleeping on the best leathers, when in fact their beds were made of cotton. The relative cost of cotton compared with leathers, hair, &c., may be seen from the following statement: Cost of a Hair Maltrass. — They are generally sold by the pound and cost from 50 to 75 cents per pound. Thirty or forty pounds will cost SI 5 or S20. Wool. — Thirty pounds ol wool at 30 cents per pound, S9; twelve yards of ticking at 12j cents per yard, SI 50; labor, thread, &c., $2 75. To- tal, SIS 25. Feathers. — Forty pounds feathers at 30 cents per pound, S12 00; fifteen yards of ticking at 12^ cents per yard, SI 87^; labor, &c., S2 75 cents. Total, $16 62^. Cotton. — Thirty pounds cotton at 8 cents per pound, S3 40; twelve yards ticking at T2i cents per yard, Si 50; labor, thread, &c., $2 75. To- tal, $7 65. It is recommended to run the cotton through a “ picker,” where one can conveniently be ob- tained, before using. This gives it additional cleanliness and buoyancy. The substitution of cotton for bedding through- out the United States would be an immense saving, besides opening a new avenue for that article to an e,xtent according to the estimation of this writer, equal “to more than two of the largest crops of cotton ever produced in the United States.” Dig Deep and you’ll, find Treasure. — We commend the following anecdote to the particu- lar consideration of those who are yet addicted to the practice of shallow plowing, and who think that no good comes froUi deep stirring of the soil. By adopting the practice of deep plow- ing, a new source of wealth would be opened on many farms, which the ‘^skinning” culture of a century or two had never developed. But to the anecdote — which, though old, is just as good as if it w’ere “ bran new:” — “ An old farmer, on his death-bed, told his sons, who were not very industrious lads, that he had deeply buried his money in a particular field, which was the most barren land on his farm. In consequence of this information, soon after the old man’s death, the sons began to dig (and they dug deeply too) all over the field — and this they did again and again, for it was long before they quite despaired of finding the money. At length, however, they gave up the search, and the land w'as planted with corn ; when, from the deep digging, pulverization and clearing which it had received in the search for the mo- ney, it produced a crop which was indeed a treasure.” It might result t ^ the pruiit ot smiie oi t.>u. artners’ sons, should they imagine their faihers had deeply buried a bagol dollars in some bar- ren field, and be led to dig in search of the trea- sure— and though they might not find the e.x- pected wealth, their exertions would be amply rewarded, as is illustrated in the anecdote. — JS. E. Former. COUTEHTS OF THIS HUMBER. ORIGINAL PAPERS. Agricultural Press, the pag® S9 Bermuda Grass, by Affleck “ 91 Broom Corn, Bones, Whip-handles, &c- “ 89 Cotton Culture, “ 91 Communication of Col. McDonald, “ 91 “ ot N. Crawford, “ 93 English Laborers “ 89 Feeding Plants — Hill-side Ditches, “ 88 Freak of Nature, “ 93 Hogs, Berkshire “ 92 Mind and Soil of the South, the “ 88 Plantation Economy, “ 90 Piotectrve System — A Plea for the Protective Policy, “ 90 Suggestion, a....... “ 89 Tanning on the Plantation, by Whitten, “ 92 Wool — Extraordinary Yield, “ 92 SELECTIONS, EXTR.».CTS, i:C. Agricultural Meeting in Chatham— Constitu- tion of the Society, “ 93 Agricultural Meeting in Habersham, “ 94 Camellia, the “ 87 Com, Cultivation of Indian, “ 84 Cotton Beds, “ 96 Cow-Pea,....; “ 87 Dig Deep and you’ll find Treasure, “ 96 Ditches, Graded Hill-side, “ 86 Franklin College, Nashville, Tenn., “ 95 Hessian Fly, the — Its origin, history, &c., and best known means to prevent its ravages — Other insects destructive to the Wheat Field 85,88 Horticultural Outline,.. “ 94 Okra— Culture and Value of...... “ 84 Planters’ Club of Early, “ 94 Silk Culture in Georgia, History of the — By Wm. B. Stevens, 81,84 Sheep — Excretory Duct of the Feet of “ 93 A PREMIUM. The Publishers of the “SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR,” jiropose to give to every man who shall procure TEN subscribers, and enclose a ten dollar bill, the two back Volumes of the work, handsomely bound. GAKPEiV AND FIELD SEEDS. A GENERAL assortment of fresh and genu- ine Garden and Field Seed, among which are the following ; Red and white clover, Blue and green grass. Rye and orchard do ’Pimothy and herds do Millet and Lucerne do Seed corn of .every valua- Buckwheat & potato oats, Seed wheat, [ble variety Kept constantly on hand by the subscriber, all o which are offered for sale at very moderate prices. .All orders, by mail or otherwise, executed with neat ness and despatch. Wm. Haines, Jr., 1 No. 2-32, Broad-street, Augusta, G AGRICUL'ffUKALi I.MPLEITIENTS. HAZARD, DENSLOW & WEBSTER, Savannah, Geo., near the City Hotel, Dealers in PAINTS, OILS, WINDOW GLASS, GUNPOWDER, SHOT, PAPER, AND AGRICULTURAL IMPLEMENTS. In audition to their usual stock of the above named articles, the subscribers have, within the last year, made large additions to their assortment of Agricul- tural Implements, and now offer to planters a greater variety than any other establishment in the Southern country: amongst which may be found the following articles, viz : PLOWS. Yankee cast iron. No. 10, 11 12and20 Plows. Dagon, or Connecticut wrought No. 1, 2 and 3 do Allen pattern, do Ruggles, Nourse & Mason’s improved do Viz : — Eagle plow, heavy, two horse or ox, do do with wheel and cutler, do No. 2 B Plow , for two horses, da 2 B do with wheel and culler. do u A 3 do medium, two horse. do u A 3 do with wheel aud Eulteu, do A 2 do light two horse do u A L do do one mule, or garden do 6 in. do do one horse turning do a 7 in. do do do do do 15 do new pattern, 1 horse, for light soil 1 Sub soil do heavy, two horse, or ox do do do No. 1 do do do d( i) do do 0 one horse do Double mould-board or furrowing Colton trenching Rice do with guage wheel A 1 side-hill, or swivel mould-board. No.O do do for one horse, do do do do Plow irons set up, of the above kinds: also, extra Mock.'-, vihich can be pac^ied iii small conipd>s, thereby making a greafsaving in iransportation. Mould-boards, points and heels or landsiffes, for all the above plows. Improved c ulliv-ators, with guage wheel Cultivator plows, or horse hoe.-'. Common Harrows Folding do improved kind. Boxed lever .straw cniu rs Improved self-feeding strew and corn stalk do, with spiral knives, simple in consiruction, Corn and cob ci ushers (hand mill) do do for horse power HOES. W. A. Lyndon’s extra black,Carolinahoes.Nos.0, 1,2 & 3 do bright do do 0, 1, 2 & 3 do new ground do doPP&PPP do oval eye grubbing do do 2&3 do round do do do 2&3 Anchor hoes do 00, 0,1 &2 Brades, patent do doO, 1,2,3&4 Light Yankee do CHAINS. Straight-link trace chains, I Ox chains Twisted do do | Log chains from iO to 18f’t MISCELLANEOUS ARTICLES. Collins's- Axes. Root’s do King’s do Bond’s do Ames’s Shovels, do Handled Spades, do Socket do I Ox-bows, j Horse rackets, 1 Dirt scrapers, j Fan mills, ! Patent churns, Cotton foot gins, Flails, Iron Shovels, ass’ted kinds. Axe-helves, Long Handled Shovels, Manure Forks, Hay do English patent Scythes, American grass do Grass platt do Brush and briar do Briar hooks, Corn cutters, Reap hooks. Scythe Siiaiths, -wingletrees, Plow lines, Wheelbarrows, Horticultural chests, Pruning shears, Ditching knives. Garden hoes,vaiiouskinds, Garden rakes, Flour-scrapers, Toy hoes. Garden reels. Grain cradles, new pattern. Transplanting trowels, Rice cradles do do Forks, Post spoons, Garden-lines, Ox-yokes, The subscribers have made such arrangements as wifi enable them to procure any improvements which may be made in the plow, or other kinds of implements suit- ed to this section, and trust from their great variety, mo- derate prices and exertions to please, they may receive a liberal sha-re of public patronage. Planters, mer- chants, and manufacturers are respectfully invited to examine their stock. Orders thankfully received and promptly attended to.. 1-ly DOMRIER MANURE. The bommer method of making Manure has been before the public in the Northern, Eastern and Middle Slates, where it has met with the approval of the ablest, scientific and practical agricul- turalists, and received, after very thorough practical experiment, the sanction of the Legislature of Mary- land. Two years residence in the Southern States, en- ables the agent to declare that the abundance of cheap material at the South, renders the manufacture of this manure peculiarly adapted to the Southern planter. The right can be had on the foll^-ring le- ir,s ; — To Manure 100 acres laud SIO “ “ 200 “ “ 15 “ “ 300 *• “ 20 Any extent 25 Address, Charles Baer, care of Wm. Byne, Waynes- boro, Ga., or care of J. W. Jones, Augusta — post-paid. To correct all misapprehension with regard to the patent, the fallowing statement is submitted : Charles Baer and JohnGouilart obtained letters pa- tent for the method, 24th January, 1843, (Rec. Lib. 280 Patent office) and sold the right tc the Northern and Eastern States, to George Bommer. Afterwards, Baer and Gouliart took into the firm Thomas M. Abbott, and continued to sell the right to the Southern and West- ern States, under the style of Abbott & Co, Abbbott & Co assigned the right to the rest of the United States and Territories on the 6th November, 1844, (Rec. Lib. 5j. page 373) to George Bommer, of whom the subscriber is the sole general agent in Georgia. 5 Charles Baer. ®l)e Sontljern (JTuUitiator is published on the first of every, month, at Augusta, Ga J. W. & W. S. JONES, PROPRIETORS. EDITED BY JAMES CAMAK, OF ATHENS, GA. TERMS.-ONE DOLLAR A YEAR. 1 copy, one year $1 00 I 25 copies, one year,.. $20 oo 6 copies, “ 5 00 I 100 copies, “ ..75 oo (All sulrscriptions must commence with the volume.! The Cash Svstem will be rigidly adhered to, and In no case will the paper be sent unless the money accompanies the order. Advertisements pertaining to Agriculture, will be in- serted for ONE D iLLAR foi every square of ten lines or less, for the first insertion, and seventv-five cents per square for each continuance. n3f=PosT Masters are authorized to receive and for- ward money free of postage. 5r3=-ALL COMMUNICATIONS MUST BE POST PAID, and ddressedto JAMES CAMAK, Athens, Georgia. VoL. III. AUGUSTA, GA., JULY, J843. No. 7. PENDLETON AGJSICHSAL SOCIETY. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON FARMS, MADE TO THE SOCIETY ON THE 10th OCTOI3ER, 1844. iMy. Thomas M. Sloan,’ s Farm, — The Com- mittee commenced their operations by visiting the farm of Mr. Thomas M. Sloan oa the I6:h ot September. This farm consists of about one hundred and thirty acres of low grounds, on the Seneca river, and as much, or a greater nu Tiber of acres of good upland. It has always been regarded as one of very great value, not only by reason of the great natural fertility, but also durability of its low grounds, The Committee have not been able to decide upon its present, compared with its former, pro- ductive powers ; but judging from the evidences presented to them, by the heavy crop of corn and pea vine now upon the land, they are ot opinion that the management of the proprietor has been at least such as to enable him to reap a rapid succession of abundant crops iorthe last twenty years, without materially impairing its value. This, however, is only applicable to the low grounds: the upland helds have not fared so well. Either by reason of a too rapid succes- sion of tillage crops, or by the total neglect of C'uard drains, or in all probability both, a por- tion of the upland fields have shared, to some extent, the fate so commonly attendant upon our agricultural operations, of being washed into sullies, and otherwise materially impover- ished. The Committee were gratified to discover that Mr. Sloan has become fully awakened to the importance of the subject; has recently con- structed several guard drains by wmy ot exper- iment ; and seems determined to extend them as far as mav seem necessary to the safety of his upland fields. So far as his uplands are concerned, the pro- prietor has adopted a rotation consisting of a tillage crop and a small grain alternately. On the low grounds, he informed us he wms in the habit of cultivating two successive tillage crops, and ev'ery third vear a crop ofsmallgrain. Mr. Sloan regards the pea crop as one of very gieat value. VVe found it co-extensive with his entire corn crop: and although large quantities are gathered annually as provender lor stock, yet a still greater quantity must necessarily be returned to the soil, and to this, as a principal cau.se, the Committee are disposed to ascribe the durability of these low grounds, together with that of several other farms, similar in all re- spects to the one under consideration. The crop on this farm was good throughout, and consisted of an equal number ot acres ol corn and cotton. Tne quantity to the hand was fourteen acres, exclusive of small grain. The v.^heat crop was said to be good, and far beyond the quantity required for domestic con- surnpti.tn. The hoas were very fine, principally ot the Berk.shire breeil. The cattle were not seen by the Committee. The !arm hou-es, con- sisting of stables, 'corn cribs, co v h mses, &e., wwr • verv good., and the hordes in good condition. The last object to which the attention of the Cotnmittee was directed, was an excellent grist mill, a very superior threshing machine, a cot ton gin, a cutting machine, a corn sheller, and a corn ^r, all under one roof, and capable of being oyed at the same time, or sepa- ately, as desired. The Committee were much pleased with this extraordinary combination of mechanical and laboring operations. They regard this estab- lishment not only as one of great convenience but of profit also. In conclusion, the Committee, after all they have seen on this farm, have come to the conclu- sion, that Mr. Sloan is a successful planter; and from the amount of old corn, and other evi- dences of abundance which every where met the eye, they have no doubt but that if famine should desolate our fair country in his day, he will be one ol the last survivors. M?‘. Robert A. Maxwell’s Farm. — This farm, like the preceding, is one of very great value, consisting of extensive low grounds, of remark- able fertility, and ot a still larger amount of up- land. The low lands were exclusively appro- priated to the culture of corn, intermixed with peas, and the uplands to the cotton crop. The Committee have no data on which to base a calculation as to whether this farm has e improved or degenerated. But from the ac- knowledgment ot the proprietor, that his opera- tions, especially on his low grounds, had not been governed by any regularly established ro- tation, the Committee are disposed to infer, notwithstanding the crop was highly superior throughout, ihat his efforts heretofore have been directed more towards the maintenance of its general productive powers, than to any great im- provement of them. Necessity is a stern law, and one whose requisitions are most commonly complied with. But a habitual reliance upon resources ihat never fail, and never deceive us, is apt to lull the mind into a state of apathy, if not false security, which cannot fail to retard our progress in the prosecution of agricultural enterprises and improvements. The Committee are firmly of the opinion, that after witnessing the low grounds, not only on Mr. Maxwell’s farm, but also those on the oth- er river farms which they have examined, and with a full knowledge of their great recupera- tive powers, that the adoption of a more lenient rotation, in connection with other auxiliary means, w'ould refresh and enrich the low grounds rapidly, and at the same time increase the an- nua! profits of the planter. The Committee were gratified to discover that the proprietor, as if sensible of the impor- tance ot this policy, had under way an experi- ment with the red clover, covering an area of thirty acres, and intended in due time to be giv- en to the land, which '.hough unpromising, by reason of the extraordinary drought that had af- flicted the country during the latter part of the season, may, nevertheless, under more favora- ble circumstances, prove a source of interest as well as profit to the owner. The Committee were also informed by Mr. Maxwell of an experiment, the result of which when completed, he has promised to lay before the Society, that will no doubt prove a source of interest as well as of instruction, to all who are interested in the important business of re- claiming wa^te and worn out lands. This ex- periment was made upon a field thickly set with sedge grass, which was first turned in, and will be followed this fall with a crop of rye, to be also given to the land, with peas, to be in due time applied in the same wav. The attention ot the Committee was also drawn to an experiment at manuring a very ex- hausted piece of land with leaves spread upon the surface and plowed in, with a spade lull ol swamp mud to each hill. The result when compared with a portion of the same field not thus managed, was said to be the difference be- tween an ear and a nubbin. But as Mr. Max- well has furnished a reply to the interrogatories ad Iressed to the several competitors, in which this experiment will be fully detailed, the Com- mittee decline offering any further observations on the subject. In the cultivation of the uplands upon this farm, which are exclusively appropriated to cot- ton, the proprietor has illustrated in a very sat- isfactory and convincing manner, the advanta- ges of horizontal plowing, or that near approach to it, which provides that each furrow shall con- vey away its own superabundance of water, and yet so gently as to leave the soil behind. This object has been fully accomplished by Mr. Maxwell, with the exception ot a few points, throughout a cotton crop of more ihan one hundred acres. And although a consider- able portion of these lands have been in cultiva- tion for many years, and someof them consi.st of steep hill sides, yet no gullies were seen by the Committee, or other proof of material injury from washing away of the soil. In the business of guard drain.«q Mr. Maxwell has not ye4 embarked. But so thoroughly has he bqcome convinced of their indispensable im- portance, that we have every reason to expect that by the next anniversary of our Society, through a combination of guard drains and in- termediate horizontal culture, this farm will ex- hibit unquestionable proofs of refined agricul- tural operations. As to manuring on this farm, the quantity made, and the manner ol making and applying it, the Committee beg leave to refer to the reply to the interrogatories. The stock of horses exhibited to the Comn^it- tee were of good quality, though not in fine condition, owing no doubt to the fact that the proprietor assigns a greater number of acres to each plow horse than is usually done. The cattle were very fine and of improved breed.— The hogs were also highly superior, and gene- rally of the Berkshire breed. And here the Committee beg leave to state a fact which has a material bearing upon the important question as to the relative merits of the Berkshire and the original stock of the country, (alias land pikes.) A lot of the common stock, some eight or ten in number, about equal in age, and reared undes' equally favorable circumstances, with a much larger lot of Berkshires, were closely observed by the Committee; the contrast was most dis- paraging to the native breed ; they were not only much smaller, but evidently much tess thrilty. As to the agricultural implements on fhis^ farm, they were sufflciently numerous and of good quality, and the same merit was consider- ed due to the negro and other farm houses, with but few exceptions. Hon. J. C. Calhoun's Farm.— The Committee next proceeded to examine the farm of the Hon. John C. Calhoun, and although it may be truly said that nature has dope much for it, yet to its proprietor clearly belongs the merit of very su- perior management. Acting upon the theory, that lands possess- ing the greatest natural fertility, must ultimate- ly become exhausted by a too rapid succession of tillage crops, withoutsome adequate return ; and from tiie destructive effects of washing 98 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. rains, Mr. Calhoun seems lo have iound a re- source for the lormer, in the cultivation ot the pea crop, and ior the latter, in the application of guard drains to bis upland fields, evidently equal to the necessities of his position in both respects. The Committee are of opinion, that the evil ol greatest magnitude, and the one which more than all others combined, tends to frustrate our agricultural operations, and impoverish our fields, is that which we sufrer from heavy fails of rain, and the consequent washing of our lands. It is true, that tillage does its part, espe- cially when unconnected with a rotation of crops, tending to give rest, and impart refresh- ment to the soil. But compared with the other mischief, it is but as the drop in the bucket. — . To this, as a principal cause, is to be ascribed the almost incalculable amount of worn out and waste lands, and yawming gullies, which disfigure and disgrace almost every farm that meets the eye throughout our country. It is this ruinous tendency, unchecked by a single contrivance, but as tamely submitted to as if it were one of the irresistible decrees of destiny, which has led to the suicidal policy of aban- doning fields as soon as their original fertility became exhausted, and felling the forest in search of the means of further subsistence; and finally, it is this which has caused so many thousands of our countrymen to exchange “ their ov/n, their native land,” with all its tender en- dearments, for the toils, privations and dangers ol our western frontier. Deeply impressed with the importance of this subject, the Curamittee were both gratified and instructed by the extraordinary management of Mr. Calhoun, by which, through the instrumen- tality of guard drains on all his upland fields, placed at such distances apart, and graded in such strict conformity to hydrostatic principles, ] that his upland fields, even'those ol the greatest declivity, have sustained almost as little injury from the heaviest falls ol rain, as the rich low lands at their base. The Committee are aware that such a state- ment is likely to be regarded as the offspring of that enthusiasm in reference to agricultural en- terprises and improvements, which welldirected experiments too often prove to be fallacious. — But regarding the farm of Mr. Calhoun as the first, if not the only one, in this section of our country, upon which this policy has been fully illustrated, and as furnishing proof approaching to mathematical certainty, of the facts staled by the Committee, they have deemed it a duty in- cumbent on them, to bring to the notice of our planters, not only the principles upon which this measure has been conducted, but also the results which have followed. Their attention was first directed to Fort Hill, a field of about forty acres, terminating at its base on the one side, in the low grounds, and connected with the uplands on the opposite side, by a depression considerably lower than its summit. This field, by reason of its descend- ing in every direction, necessarily required to be literally belted with guard drains. Certain points appeared to have been selected, at which the water could be discharged with the greatest safely, anda series of drains were directed round the hill, with a descent just sufficient to convey away the water, and yet so gently as not to en- large or deepen their channels. The number of these drains was made to correspond with the necessities of the field, as determined by the amount of its declivity, being more numerous and nearer each other where the descent was greatest. The Committee were not informed as to the amount of this descent, or deviation from the horizontal line. But judging from the eye, they were supposed to equal from three to five feet in the hundred yards. Asa further measure of precaution, the inter- mediate drill rows were run out horizontally, or nearly so: an arrangement which, by the aid of the first great measure of safety to the soil, seemed to have enabled each furrow to retain its own water, or to have parted with it so gradu- ally as not to leave a trace of the slightest in- jury. The Committee did not learn how long this c- lebrated hill had been in cultivation, though appearances justify the conclusion that it must have been cleared thirty or forty years; yet, notwithstanding the soil was evidently good originally, judging from the very heavy crop ol corn and pea vine now upon the land, the Com- mittee are induced to believe its productive powers have scarcely diminished. In other hands, or even in the hands of the proprietor himself, had the above precautionary measures been omitted, the field must ere now have e.xhibited in many places a series of gul- lies and abraded surfaces, and been destined soon to take rank with the waste and worn out lands of our country. The remaining portion of the uplands on this farm, with the exception ot various patches in the vicinity of the homestead, were appropriat- ed lo cotton. And although the greater part ol them was fresh land, that had been but a few years in cultivation, yet, fully impressed with the importance ol upland drains, and acting upon the policy that it were easier to prevent than lo remedy an evil, a sufficient number of them to protect the lands have been already made, with the same caution, and with the same success attendant upon those on Fort Hill. The amount of land required for these drains is very inconsiderable, and the amount of soil conveyed away through them, though compara- tively small, may often be diverted, as we saw it done in several instances on Mr. Calhoun’s farm, to some impoverished spot which would be improved, or to some wet depression which they would elevate and reclaim. The low grounds on this farm were exclu- .siv'ely appropriated to the corn crop, intermixed with peas throughout. The corn crop was very fine, and the entire surface of the earth was covered with the most luxuriant crop of pea vines w'e ever witnessed. By reason of Mr. Calhoun’s absence, the Committee are uninformed as to his manage- ment of the pea crop, nor do they know any thing concerning his rotation of crops. But all concur in the opinion that a return annually to the soil, ol the vast amount of pea vines on each acre of land, would amouiit to an adequate compensation for all that is taken from it by the corn crop. The stock on this farm, consisting of horses, hogs and cattle, Vi^ere of good blood and in fine condition. The farm houses w'ere sufficiently numerous, and both comfortable and conve- nient. And this was more especially the case with the negro house, which consisted of a build- ing of stone of superior masonry, two hundred and ten feet in length, divided into apartments, w’ith separate fire-places, sufficiently large for all the purposes of comfort and healthful venti- lation. The Cominiltee, in conclusion, have no he- sitation in pronouncing the management upon this farm highly superior. The useful and the ornamental have been most happily blended, not only throughout the principal tillage crops of the farm, but also the more refined horticul- tural operations of the homestead. Mr. A. F. Lewis's Po,nn. — The Committee next proceeded to examine the farm ofMr. An- drew F. Lewis; and in justice to this gentle- man, and in advance of any remarks in refer- ence to his agricultural operations, they regard it as their duty to state that he is the youngest planter belonging to the list of competitors. — But although he became the proprietor of a landed estate of very great value, only three years since, he has, in that short period, given the most satisfactory proof that he possesses an amount of agricultural skill and enterprise that entitles him to rank ‘with our most experienced planters. His farm, like the preceding, lies upon the Seneca river, and consists of nearly equal parts ot low grounds and good upland. And al- though a considerable portion of the latter had been neglected lor several years previous to occupancy of them, and overrun with sage, nox- ious w'eeds and shrubs, yet the whole has been reclaimed during this short period, and a good crop of corn and pea vines now occupies this hitherto unsightly w^aste. In addition to the above improvement, the Committeeconsider Mr. Lewis eaiiiled to much credit for an extensive and successful applica- tion ot the spade to the drying of a portion of his low-grounds, heretofore too wet for cultiva- tion. The corn crop on this farm was confined prin- cipally to the low grounds. And although the pea crop was not .co-extensive with the entire corn crop, yet they had been very judiciously- cultivated with the corn on the uplands, where they were most needed as manure; and a por- tion of the low grounds exhibited them sown broad cast at the last plowing, in a state of un- common luxuriancy. The cotton crop, as on the preceding river farms, occupied the whole or nearly allot the upland fields. And here, again, the Commit- tee had the pleasure of witnessing the salutary effects of guard drains, to a considerable extent. They were planned and executed in a way sim- ilar to those described on the farm ol the Hon. John C. Calhoun, and with results both gratify- ing and successful. The stock ol hogs on this farm was of the most improved breed, and at least equal to any we have seen. The cattle were also very fine. As to the horses, they were not only very fine, but in superior condition. The Committee have no hesitation in awarding to Mr. Lewis the credit of having surpassed all his competi- tors in this important branch of domestic econ- omy. The farm houses were uniformly crmlorta- ble and convenient, and the agricultural im- plements ot good quality. Dr. O. i?. Broyle's Farm. — The farm, of this gentleman was next examined. The proprie- tor has had possession ol it only four years. — At the time it came into his hand.s, it was re- garded as an upland farm principally, though there w-as attached to it, ol creek and branch low grounds, very wet, and of equivocal value, probably one hundred acres. The proprietor, acting under an impression long entertained by him, that the swamps and morasses of our district needed nothing but ef- fective draining to make them not only very productive, but also very durable, has planned and executed the most extensive operations in ditching, and has succeeded in reclaiming, in a more effectual manner than has been done on any other farm known to the Committee, almost his entire low grounds, and has exhibiied a crop of corn rising out of bogs heretolore impassa- ble in jiiany places, equal lo the most productive low grounds on ihe Seneca ri'ver. The operations of the proprietor on these lov/ grounds, and their productiveness, believed to be the con.sequence of thorough draining, are well calculated to leach an instructive lesson concerning the value of the many thousands oj acres of swamp lands in the upper districts ot the State, and an equally valuable one as to the means necessary to bring them into cultivation. The Committee were also pleasurably enter- tained by examining a crop oi'rice on this farm, of the most astonishing luxuriancy, and judg- ing from the appearance of the- present crop, and from the amo.unt reported from one acre on this larm by a Committee of the i^gricultnral Society last year, they enteitain no doubt but that rice may be growm as successfully in this district, as in any portion of the southern States. The crop of corn on this farm was equal, or nearly so, io that of the other competitors, and the cotton crop, though comparatively small, was generally good. The farm houses, though new, and some ot them unfinished, will be comfortable. The hor- ses were in good condition, but the remaining portion of the stock, consisting of hogs and cat- tle, were not generally of improved breed, and decidedly inferior to the fine specimens exhib- ited on the otfrer farms. THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 99 Maj. R.. /*'. Stmpsoiis Riirnii — ^Tliis farm is the only one exauiineJ by the Gommittee that is exclusive! V of upland. And althou'^h iicoo'- tains lar^e bodies of creek and brancli bottoms of great fertility, as yet some tenor fifteen acres have been impe.fecily dried, but which, not- withstanding the unfavorable circumstances ol the experiment, made lyaite a satisfactory yield. This farm, when it came into the hands of the proprietor, some seven or eight years since, though once very fertile and productive, had been materially injured by the bad management of a succession of overseers, whose known rule of operations is to make the greatest possible yield to th.e hand, without the slightest regard to the preservation of the land. For this reason the proprietor found it to be his first duty, as it was his best policy, to set at once ab;iut the important business of repairing injuries imposed upon him by the improvidence ot others. In pursuance ol this policy, and stimulated by the necessities of his position. Major Simp- son enabarkedat once in the business of guard drains, as a work of paramount importance, and has continued his operations in this respect until they occupy a position in every field on his farm. Underthis management, a considerable por- tion ot the old lands on this farm have improv- ed, and promise ere long to be restored to their original fertility. The corn crop on this farm was very good, considering the drought, which is commonly most injurious on upland. The cotton crop was also very good, and no doubts were entertained by the Committee, but that both corn and cotton crops had been well cultivated. The negro and farm houses on this farm were sufficiently numerous and comfortable. — The horses were in good condition. The hogs and cattle, though not generally an improved breed, were good specimens ot the native stock. Col. John E. Calhoun's Farm. — As the last of their official duties, the Committee proceed- ed to inspect the farm of Col. John E Calhoun, consisting of an immense body of upland, and ot several hund.'’ed acres ot lo w grounds, at the confluence of the Keowee and Twelve Mile Rivers. The.se lands possess, in the opinion of the Committee, a greater depth of soil, and high- er productive powers, than any they have ex- amined. And this, together with its superior improvements in buildings, of every kind, from the dwelling house down to the stables and farm houses, make this one of the most valuable farms in the upper country. Such being the advantages of Col, Calhoun, the Committee have been at a loss in assigning him his position, and defining his merits as a farmer, because it involved the necessity of dis- criminating between what was due to nature, and what to art. A good crop, with most planters, is only look- ed for as a compensation of much toil, and pre- Sirainary preparation. But a good crop, with Mr. Calhoun’s advantages, is the almost certain consequence of simply planting the land, and cultivating it in the ordinary way. The condition of this gentleman, (and the re- mark applies with nearly equal force to the oth- er river planters,) is similar to that ot an exec- utive or judicial office.r with a fat salary for life. The certainty of an annual stipend beyond the reach of contingencies, is apt to abate to some extent that zeal in the discharge of their official duties so well se ured under a difierent policy by the exercise of the elective franchise. ' It is true their lands are rich, and produce an- nually very abundant crops, bet possessed as they are of the most a-stonishing recuperative powers, and producing as they do, the so called clover of the south, with unsurpassed luxurian- cy, it is a matter of some astonishment to the Committee, that these low lands have not been improved, even beyond their present productive powers. It is a governing maxim with many, to “ be content with doing well.” But although it contains a moral of a highly conservative character, in reference to most of our opera- tions, yet it is wholly inapplicable to agricultu- ral enterprises. It is true there may be a point beyond which the power, of production cannot be e.xtei.ded, but that furnishs’s no ex-cuse, even I on the .score fd' personal interest, wliv ail due | I efforts should not he made to reach a.s near that | j maxi num point as possible, alleast by means j so cheap and available as those alluded to. j The crop of both corn and cution on Colonel i Calhoun's farm was superior throughout, and had evidently been well cultivated. In respect to guard drains, now so generally esteemed of indispensable importance, Colonel Calhoun has not yet engaged. But in the busi- ness of horizontal or grade plowing, he has dis- played a management that has been most flatter- ingly signalized by success. He exhibited large fields of hilly land, which, though they had been long in cultivation, showed but slight traces of those destructive evils attendant upon a neglect of this salutary precaution. The Committee, as has been before observ- ed, regard the farm houses, stables, and other out buildings on this farm, as decidedly superi- or to any they have witnessed. And the stock of hogs, horses, and cattle, as far as seen by them, of good quality, and, with few excep- tions, in good condition. In addition to the common farm horses, the. Committee had the pleasure of examining Col. Calhoun’s stock of blooded horses, which claim their genealogy from the most renowned cham- pions of the turf, both in England and the U. States. In conclusion, the Committee beg leave to state, that actuated by no motive but that of a zealous wish to do their duty, and to gain all the information in their power in respect to the po- licy of our best planters, with the view of lay- ing the same before our fellow-citizens, that it might become the common properly, and there- by add to the general prosperity of the commu- nity at large; they have not only visited the farms ot all the competitor.s, but have closely scrutinized their plans, practical operations, and genera! management, with but slight and una- voidable omissions. And after an attentive survev of the whole ground, we honestly be- lieve that we live in the midst of an agricultu- ral commu.nity, whose pretensions would not be disparaged by a contrast with any, even the most improved sections of the Slate. And al- though our present progress, compared with what it should be, is but as the dawn that pre- cedes the meridian sun, yet, unless the Com- mittee have been completely deceived by the evidences before them, there is a spirit of im- provement abroad in the land, owing in a great degree to the zeal and efficiency of the presiding officer of the Society, which, directed by the lights that modern science has thrown upon our pathways, cannot fail in due timeto reclaim the declining fortunes of our country, and counter- act the downward tendency ot those destructive measures which have so long disgraced our ag- ricultural operations. In approaching the last act assigned to the Committee by the Society, that ot awarding certain specified premiums, to the proprietors of the first, second and third best managed farms, the Committee beg Fave to he discharged from the performance of that very delicate and re- sponsible duty. The reasons which have lea them to this conclusion, are based upon the fact, that the claims of some three or lour of the most prominent competiiors are so nearly bal- anced, that a discrimination in favor of either would be wholly gratuitous and inconclusive. And secondly, that notwithstanding the visiting Committee, as appointed by the President, numbered six besides its Chairman, the services of only three have been made available in visit- ing all the farms. A ciromnstance which has thrown the responsibility of deciding this deli- cate question on a much smaller number than was intended. The Committee, as their last, but In no wise least duty, feel them.selves called upon to express their unfeigned admiration of the superior man- age.ment of those departments of the homestead proper, over which our kind hostesses, the farm- ers’ wives, have undivided control. For ai- tbongh the farmers themselves have filled their barns and granaries to repletion, and crowded their Slock pens with Durham cattle and Berk- shire hog.s, they have only furnished the raw material. And to their better halves belongs the surpassing credit of those matchless culinary preparations, and horticultural operations, which have so amply compensated the toils of the Committee, and established for themselves the most undoubted claims to the credit of superior dome.«tic management. AUi which is respect- fully submitted to the consideration of the So- ciety. O'. R. Broyles, R. A. Maxwell, Thos. M. Sloan, Andrew F, Lewis. R. F. Simpson. ADDRESS OF COI.. McDONAED. Before the Agricultural Society of Barbour county, Ala. Gentlemen: — In considering the subject of- Agiiculture, we find that so much has-been writ- ten of late years, that every point seems occu- pied; that the whole ground has been so taken up by the first agriculturists of the country, and the greatest statesmen of the age, such as Buei, Colman, Seabrook, O’Neal, Webster, McDuffie and Rives, who have all appeared before the A me - rican people as the advocates of agriculture, with a host of others, that we may well despair of bringing before you much that will be new or in- teresting. It however becomes ourduty to press home the subject, to give line upon line, and pre- cept upon precept, however conseiem-s we may be that many of our suggestions will fall still-born from our lips. The earth every where abounds with the elements of human happiness and com- fort, To man has been consigned by hi.s Creator the capacity and duty of cultivating the earth; and it has been wisely ordained, that in the pro- portion as he discharges his duty, in that propor- tion is be prosperous, happy and comfortable. — I The cultivation of the earth was the first em- ployment of man. It is still the great business of all civilized nations, and particularly so in our country. It must ever remain so. It is alike necessary to our health, our comforts, our wants and our happiness. All other arts and employ- ments arc dependent upon and have grown out of agriculture. They arc necessarily dependent upon it for support and existence. If agriculture svere to cease) all other arts and trades would fail. The face af the earth would again become a wilderness and man a savage. A survey of the present condition of the globe will show us, that nations are enlightened and prosperous, in proportion to the improved or ne» I glected state ol agriculture, and that other arts of useful industry prosper or decline, as this pa- rent art is productive or unproductive. Spain, Italy, Asia Minor and Egypt, have in turn been the granaries, in a measure, of the civilized world. While their agriculture flourished, thev were prosperous and powerful; but as the agricul- ture of those countries declined, their energies were broken down, and their population have be- come poor, miserable objects of pity. Farmers and mechanics form the great body of our popu- lation. Their labors constitute the principal source of the xvealth of this country; consequent- ly all and every thing that can be done to lender their labor more profitable, is adding to the amount of human happiness. The illustrious Franklin, who sustained towards his country the honorable appellation of mechanic, patriot, statesman and philosopher, has pronounced agriculture the most honorable of all employments, being the most independent. The farmer, says he, “ has no need of popular favor, nor of the favor of the great, the success of his crops depending only on the blessing ot God and his own industry.” In speaking of the farmer, we mean all who cultivate the soil. Whether he be called planter or farmer, we look upon them as belonging to the same class: we regard them as brothers, though geographically separated from each other ; and no matter if one should raise rice and cotton, another corn, another wheat, another sugar, an- other tobacco, they are all agriculturists — all equally dependent upon the bounty and goodness of their Creator. Gentlemen, we have every in- Lceraent to exert all our energies in the (?ause 100 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. in which we are engaged — the improvement of the agriculture of o-urirrteres ling section of coun- try. We have east our lots in one of the most dcdrable portions of the United States, for while we can raise by proper attention every product that can be produced in more nortltern regions, we can, in our mild climate and vigorous soil, raise many valuable and highly important products that cannot be produced where the winters are long and the summers short. Jn speaking of dif- ferent sections of country, I believe, however, that the Almighty has distributed his blessings with an impartial hand. Although 1 know it has been common for gentlemen in addressing Agri- cultural Societies, to claim for some particular sections of country advantages over other sec- tions, my opinion is, that wherever you find the Industrious, prudent, careful farmer, whether he reside in the North, South, Hast or West, there you will find the happy man. Those of us that are old enough to recollect the state of agriculture forty years pa_st in the South, and compare it with what it is at the present time, must see the most staking improvements. At that day, the entire crop of small grain was cut down with the old fashioned sick'e. A man would have been driven from the field that v/ould have attempted to introduce the cradle into a wheat field, in the upper parts of Georgia. I have of- ten seen twenty reapers at a time taking down the narrow swarth. It was considered a breach of the rules of that day, that three heads of w'heat should be fou.nd to reach each other after the reapers had passed over the field. Fifty pounds of cotton was considered a good day’s work fora hand to pick out. Our valuable southern stap'e was then packed, or rather pou.ided, into a round, unshapely bag, and, if it had been ever so nice, it was so saturated by throwing water into the bag to enable the packer to get in some cotton, that the cotton was measur.ably spoiled before it left the gin. We then hauled it from one to three hundred miles on wagons. I have known it hauled with a four horse team from Georgia to Virginia. The plow we then used was the old fasMoned cutter, thv common sImvc!, and the heavy and awkward bar-shear. Twjsted raw hide was used to a considerable extent in tlic place of the trace chain. Tobacco, which w as then extensively cultivated in the upper part of Georgia, was tumbled over, or rather rolled through, the mud hundreds of miles to market, under the appellation of the rolling hogshead; it often being a matter of much doubt, after reach- ing the market, whether the tobacco would pass the inspection or be condemned as worthless. How changed is every thing since that day. Our small grain (I wish we were raising more of it) Is now taken down with the well constructed cradle, and in many sections it is taken down with horse power. Our cotton, that has dune more to give employment to the world, and to re- gulate exchanges among the difierent nations of the earth, than any other product, has been so improved in its preparation, that in many in- stances we have been enabled to give it almost the appearance of silk. We nov/ press it into a nice, portable square package, that is easily trans- ported to any given point. From one to two hundred pounds is now considered a da\ ’s work for a hand to pick out. That most itnportant Implement of husbandry, the plow, has bien so improved by our ingenious and enterpdsing me- chanics, that a hand will now perform nearly dou- ble the quantity of labor in a day that was for- merly done, and dj it much better. I am nai prepared to say when our.plo'ws will be seen to pa«s and repass through our fields propelled by iiteamj though from the rapid march of improve- ment, I have no reason to doubt but that the day will come when that and other improvements equally astonishing will take place. I have bare- ly touched on the improvements that have been and are constantly in progress in agriculture and agricultural implements. Notwithstanding the improvements that have been made, and are noy/ making, to advance the cause of husbandry, it is .true, that it is far be- hind all other arts and sciences ; for while in this age of improvement, almost .every art and sci ence has improved with the velocity of a railroad car, agriculture has moved along at a snail’s pace. The reason is apparent lo every , one that has taken tire trouble to investigate the matter. We have been raised on a virgin soil. 1 1 has been our habit ito cut down the forest, and in a few '. cars skim off the surface, and before the trees that we had belted, to enable ustogrow corn and cotton under them, w’ere fiuily dead, we have heard of so iie o’ her new country that held out itiducemonts, as we supposed ; the consequer.ee has been that we have been all the time moving from one new country to another ; we have nev- er remained long enough at any one place to make experiments in agriculture, or to become comfortable. Even in my short day, and short it is, (still I find myself, gentlemen, getting a little in the grey of the evening,) I can well remember when the Oconee river, in our sister State, Geor- gia, (which State has given birth to many of us,) was the western boundary. Since that day, our adopted State, Alabama^ has sprung into exis- tence, and though but little over a quarter of a century old, in point of agricultural improve- ment, and in the amount of agiicuitural pioduc- tions, has already surpassed some of the other States, and in a few years will be up by the side of the most prosperous. There is no portion of the globe, whose inhabitants are more deeply in- terested in everything calculated to advance the cause of agriculture, than the one w'e inhabit. In England one-third of iis inhabitants are em- pieyed in agricultural pursuits; in France two- thirds; in Italy three-fourths; while in the U. States it appears, from the most accurate calcu- lation that has been made, that seventy-seven out of eve y hundred of the population are em- ployed in the cultivation of the soil. In our own State it has been ascertained that thirteen-four- teenths of them that labor are employed in agri- culture. Our soil and climate are surpassed by none in the world in point of fertility and mildness. — There is the greatest responsibility resting on us as farmers. It is out indispensable duty, as it shoulJ be our greatest pride, to set about an im- proved state of husbandry. The oM skinning system of taking every thing from our kind and indu’gent mother earth, while we add nothing to her in return, should be abandoned at once, while our country is nev/, while our soil is strong and healthy, before deep gashes are cut in her back by the washing rains. Let us adopt the old hor- izontal system of plowing. Before our level land is exhausted by a constant pressure of crops, and we begin to turn out field after field as worthless, let us commence the manuri.og sys- tem, and the more so, as we have great advania ;es over many other portions of country in point of manuring, on account o'" the extensive beds of blue marl that every where are to be found on the banksof our streams.; in this way we will be enabled to make our lands produce.even double the present crop, and, indeed, we may far exceed that point. Ills not known by any living man what an acre of land may be made to produce by a high state of manuring and proper cultivation. It is my impression that by a jud clous system of manuring our l i! ds, the common pine lands of this section of country can be made to pro- duce fi.tty bushels of coni to the acre, and two thousand pounds of cotton, ns anavc rage crop. I am so confident of success, that I have made a commencement. During the last year I prepared some six thousand bushels of compo.'t manure on r.iv farm, besides our cotton seed. The com- post was prepared by hauling into a lot w'here our cattle are constantly penned, about equal parts of marl and pine straw. Altet sufieringit to remain some three or four inon'hs, we haul it out in January. We have the present year, by w'ay of trial, placed it in the drills. We consid.er this only a commencement; for, if spared, we e.xpect this year to make more than double the quantity of last year, for I have such confidence in tte importance of manuring, that I c.xpect to devote .much of the labor of my hands to its pre- paration. The idea of travelling overone hun- dred acres nf land, to gather what should be pro duced on twenty, is so farfrom that wise and ju- dicious course of agriculture, that I hope no far- mer will consent to be satisfied wdth it. It is only neeessarv, gentlemen, to look upon the present signs of ihe times, to see that there is throughout our entire country, a strong dispo- sition to improve its agriculture. There has been a greater number of meetings of the farm- ers within the last six months, than has t,aken place in six years previous. This speaks a lan- guage not to be misunderstood. Those primary meetings are the forerunners ol impoicant move- ments that will follow. 1 1 is wdrat j have desired to see for the last five years — a concert of action on the part of the cultivators of the soil for its improvement. It is time, it is high time, that we go to work in good earnest. During last summer, I took a trip of three months through the States of Alabama, Tennessee, and rr.y na- tive State, Georgia. My object, from the day I left home until 1 returned, was to see the state of agriculture. I took no part in the exdiing topics of the day. A great many of the farms that I passed in the different States presented any thing else but a thriving appearance. I W'as olten re- minded ot a remark made by Dr. Manley, in his excellent address before the Alabama State Agri- cultural Convention in 1841, that many of our farms appeared to the passer by, as if a shower of houses had fallen on one day, and a sbow'erof rails the next. It is pleasing to repeat. ihat we have brighter prospects in view at the present. The ball is put in motion, let us keep it rolling, and in a few years the face of the country will be changed. It is from our mother earth that we have to dig out the heavy debt we owe to Eng- land, every dollar of which let us pay, and, as farrpers, present an honorable and square front to the world. But in the meantime, wesbould en- deavor to make twm ears of corn grow w here one grew' before. By a high stale of manining our lands, and a proper attention to all the various branches of our avocation, our harvest will be increased double. Let cur State step forward and throw the weight of her influence on the side of improved husbandry . Let our h gislative bodies meet but once in tw'o years. 1 ake the money thus saved, and employ a suitable man to make a Geological and Agricultural survey of the State; also employ a professor of Agricul- ture in our State ('ollege ; also, let there be a mo- del farm established, where agricuiture will be taught, practically as well as scientifically. We have examples before us in several of the States. Look at the vast improvemen s in Agriculture in New' York and South Carolina. The Legisla- tures of those States have done much to promote the cause of husuandry. I will give 3 ou an ex- tract of the message cf Governor Noble, of South Carolina, to the Legislature of that State in 1839: “In giving you Intovmation of the cendition of the Stale, (says the Go\er::or,) I should feel that I was obnoxious to the charge of neg ecting one of the most irnpoitam branches of industry, were I to be silent on the subject of agricuiture. This pursuit o! the great mass o' tlu ; eople has claims upon your fosteiing care and attention ; it is the source of our wealth and power, and furnishes the means of emr commercial exchanges. Its importance seems never to Inve been realized by the constituted authorities of the S'ate; it is a lamentable truth, that while other branches of industrv have received an impu se b\ wholesome laws, the great interests of agri, ulture have been passed by almost wirli silent contempt. It is now time tha: the State dismiss from her coun- cils,this c.oid-indifierence, and take such action on the subject as will promote its success.” Since 1839, tlie State of South Csrclinahas, as is well known, been one of the most persevering States in urging forward the claims ofagrirulture. She has her State Agricultural .Socicy, and most of the districts or counties have their County Soeieties. We have examples of the high f stimation in which the greatest men of America have he’d agriculture ; for they have ai! been practical agri- cul'urists, or the devoted friends of agiiciilture, and after serving their country in Ihe highest sta- tions in the gift of the people, have retired to spend the evening c f their days on their farms. Agricultural Societies, from their introductio’.i iiitcmhe United States up to the present, how- ever, have been considered, and are now view'- ed, as one of the principal means of improv- ing the agriculture of the countiy. This as- sociation is nothing more nor less than a set of farm rs, convened together to consult as to the bestmeans of promoting their common interest ; here there is no selfish object. One farmer pre- sents one improvement, another another, and as almost every farmer conducts his farm in many respects different from his neighbor, by each wiving his mode, culture and his success in h’s system, w'e have it in our power to gather up and apply much useful information, fl at would oth- erwise be entirely lost, or be confined to one farm alone. We not only often learn much by a per- sonal exam.inaiion of each other’s mode of cul- ture, but by the system of appointing committees to look, not only into the mode ©f culture adopt- edby different farmers, hut ta note down and re,, THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 101 port tire quantity of land cultivated in the various pro facts. Should this system become universal throughout the State, and the reports sent up to the State Society annually, it would enable the farmer to act in the sale of li's crop with a mtlch greater knowledge of W'hat he wars doing ; there would not be this constant guessing as to the probable quantity of this or that product raised. The advantages growingoiitof Acricultural So- cieties, in giving rewards or premiums for the best domestic fabrics, have done much to pro- mote industry, creating a laudable competition, and hasolfen led to most valuable results. tVext to Agricultural Societies as a means of improving the husbandry of the country, the reading of agricultural papers and periodicals has done and is doing much. As an evidence of lire high value set on agricultural papers by the culti- vators of the soil— they are daily growing into their confidence. The prejudice heretofore ex- isting against every thing written on the subject of a.gricultiire, generally called book-farming, is rapidly giving way to a more en ightened view, and instead of one agricultural paper that stood up solitary and alone, twenty years past, as the friend of Agiiculture, there is now over thirty of these papers published, in every section of our wide spread country, scattering light and spread- ing useful knowledge and information in every direction. Although General Washington lived long before an agricultural paper was thought of in America, so important did he consider the pe- rusal of Agricultural works, that he sent to Eu- rope and procured the publications of the best writers on agriculture, and read them v/ith dili- gence and reidection, drawing from them such scientific and practical hints as he could advan- tageously use in improving his farm. The improvement of mechanic arts is equally important with that of the improvement of hus- bandry. We are indebted to the Mechanic for our success as farmers ; at eveiy step that we taite without these indispensable implements of husbandry, La daily use, by which we are enabled to cultivate the earth, what could we do ? How could we succeed as farmers, without the plow, the hoe, the axe, the hundred other implements, that are indispensarie to our success as farmers, that are furnished us by the industrious and in- geriious .Mechanic ? We are indebted to the Me- chanic for the houses we occupy, for the cloths \ve w'ear. Wi:hout the printing press, how would we be informed of the various improvements that are constantly going on in agriculture? What dis- position would we make of our surplus products, without the aid of the Mechanic? — without the steamboat and the ship, to transport our cotton to distant lands, and furnish us with the indispen- sable articles in daily use ? We should succeed but poorly as farmers. Hence we say that the far- mer and the mechanic, are twin brothers, alike dependent on each other for support and success. It is not at all wonderful that our Heavenly Father, should have selected a garden as the resi- dence of the first pair. None but those who cul- tivate a garden can form any just idea of the pleasure it affords those who spend a portion of their time in this delightful employment. We have never yet sufficiently appieciated the com- forts, to say nothing of the luxuries of a well- cultivated garden. Indeed, Horticulture is only an i mproved state of Agriculture. A well culti- vated garden, will supply half the daily demands of a family. In our sunny South, we may be supplied with vegetables and fruits all the year round from the garden, of some kind. I know it has been common with us to turn over the garden to some extent to the ladies, and in many in- stances, (he it said to their honor) they manage it much better than we do; for they have that pro- pm’ taste, so necessary to the management of a nice and handsome garden. And it we, in our travels through the country, would make it our business to collect wherever we go, all the rare and valuable vegetables, fruits and flowers, (yes, flowers, if you please,) and place them in the hands of our wives and daughters, they would give a good account ot them. T believe there is no t'me so profitably spent as that devoted to the preparation and cultivation of a garden. Here, morning, noon and night, you make your appli- cation fur nourishment, and if you have done your duty well, you do not apply in vain ; you not only are supplied with that which is pleasant atid palatable, but that which is healthy. We have said that the ladies have sometimes conducted the arrangements ot the garden ; and, so far as flowers are concerned, itere is her .nppropriate home ; here, surraunded by the blossoms she has cultivated with her own fair hands, she delights to dwell. It has been most appropriately re- marked by some writer, that while the seeds, ve- getables and fruits of the earth, aie the bounties of the Almighty, that flowers are his smiles. We wou'd recommend every farmer, and indeed every one, to fuliivaie a taste for Horticulture. Nothing tiids so much as a well conducted gar- den, no matter how small it may be, to make home a pleasant and happy place. After we have toiled throughout the day, how pleasant to return in the evening, and seat ourselves under some shade tree in the garden that we have planted with onr owm hands. Nothing is so well calcu- lated to soften down our nalure as a sfi oil through a beautiful flower garden. The man who plants a fruit, or a shade tree, becomes to some extent a public benefactor. A few of the friends of Agriculture, anxious to improve the state of husbandry in our new country, where but the other day, the red man of the forest was the only occupant, met in this town in 1339, and formed themselves into an Agricultural Society. Since the for- mation of an association, some of its early and most devoted friends have gone to that bourne from whence no traveller returns. Many of us yet live, and enjoy the pleasure of meeting to- gether from time to time, to consult for the good of the whole. That our society has accomplished all that its friends hoped for, we do not pretend to claim : that it has done some good, we are equally confident. All we now want, to make the Bar- bour county Agricultural Society, the great cen- tre from which shall be spread out useful and im- portant knowledge, that wiff do much to improve the farming interest of this country, is a united effort, on the part of its members. The farmers of this country have it in their power, to make it one vast garden ; and by a universal effort to im- prove the Agriculture of these United States, they can soon become the grainery of the world. CULTiVA'FlOtW OF ASFASS AGUS. Of all vegetables, treated as “g^rcews,” the as- paragus is considered by most, as standing at the head of the list. Comparatively few, however, provide themselves properly with a supply ; or even where they have had an abundance, it is not of the first quality. Perhaps a few hints on its culture, and on the mode of obtaining the finest, may be acceptable at this time. The difference between large and small as- paragus, depends very much on cultivation, a deep, rich soil, and plenty of room bettveen the plants, producing the largest growth. Some- thing also doubtless is to be attributed to the va- riety; as by a successive selection of seed from the ihriitiest plants, an ultimate improvement may be obtained. Hence, in making a bed, seed from those plants which are known to be very large, are to be preferred. If good plants, one or two years old, can be obtained at hand, the bed will ot course be accelerated one year. A common and a good practice in preparing an asparagus bed, is to trench the ground two spades deep, and then return the earth thus re- moved, mixed with alternate layers ol nearly an equal quantity of stable manure, until the top of the bed is six inches above the surface of the ground. But a great improvement on one part of this process is— after each layer of sail is thrown on the preceding layer of manure, to in- termix it very thoroughly with the manure, by means of a coarse iron rake, potatoe-hook, or other suitable tool. This thorough admixture ot soil and manure, though scarcely ever prac- tised, is of the greatest importance, as large lumps of pure manure and of earth, without be- ing finely divided and interfused, form but a poor inatcrial for the extension of the fine and delicate fibres ol the growing plants. The bed being ready for the reception of the plants from the seed bed, which should be re- moved with the least possible injury to the roots, proceed to lay oft the trenches for the rows. One of the greatest errors witli most cultivators is crowding their plants too closely together; they vyish, after so much labor in the preparation of a fine bed, to obtain the largest possible sup- ply from it, but defeat their own purpose by the slender and diminished growth resulting from such treatment. The nearest possible distance which ought ever to be admitted in an aspara- gus bed, is one foot apart in the row, and eigh- teen inches between the rows. Thus, il the trenched bed is four feel wide, only two rows can be admitted, instead of lour or five, as usu- ally practised. This may be seen by’^ the fol- lowing diagram, the dots indicating the plants, which are placed, not opposite, but aliernating with each other, which gives the more space be- tween them. If there are eighteen inches of space between the rows, then there will be fifteen inches Irom the rows to the edge of the bed, which is none too much for the proper extension of the roots. The trenches for the plants should be made six inches deep, and wide enough to ad- mit the roots spread out horizontally, which must be done with the fingers. The depth should be such that two or three inches of earth may be spread on the crowns of the plants. The beds may be made of any length to suit cultiva- tors. One a hundred and fifty leet long and lour feet wide will supply an abundance for a mode- rate sized iamily. After a bed is transplanted, it should remain uncut for two sea.sons. Cutting sooner will greatly injure its subsequent thriftiness. If it is remembered that the two chief requi- sites for success, are plenty of room for the growth of the plants, and a deep, fertile soil, no one need be at a loss in the cultivation ol this fine vegetable. Good, constant, and cleanly cul- ture, as e^'^ery one must know, is indispensable. These requisites are of vastly greater conse- quence than large varieties merely. Indeed, the fact that with good cultivation and management, no plants are small, and without that none are large, has led many intelligent persons to sup- pose that the difference between giant and small varieties is owing entirely to these circumstan- ces, and they are not far wrong. One advantage which may be derived, from planting the rows more distant than is usual, be- sides large growth, is the facility of keeping the ground cultivated, a light plow drawn by one horse being passed freely between them. With such distances, and the facilities af- forded lor horse cultivation, much finer plants may be had from a rich, deeply plowed soil only, than without them from a trenched bed two feet deep, though depth and distance com- bined are the best. — Albany Cultivai-or. From the Maine Farmer. Asparagus is now extensively cultivated in the Middle and Northern States, and is generally much admired as an esculent. But owing fo some imperfection in its management, it is sel- dom presented in our markets in that degree of perfection of which it is susceptible. In the country, it is almost invariably small, hard and tough, presenting but lew attractions either to the eye or palate. As we have been requested to publish an article, relative to the cultivation of this vegetable, we present the following from the Southern Agriculturalist, detailing the dusi perandi pursued in Spain, and which we believe is in most respects strictly coincident with the practice usually pursued by experienced gardeners and horlieulturalists in our own coun- try. Asparagus is a plant found naturally on the beach of various parts of the coast of Europe, where it is covered by the drifting sand, and watered by salt water on high tides. Sand and salt water occasionally may. therefore, be re- garded as indispensable conditions for maintain- ing it in health. How seldom is this thought of! It, however, explains in part, the excellence of St. Sebastian asparagus. It seems that ?.t the mouth of the Urumea is a narrow strip of land, about three feet above high- water mark, consisting of alluvial soil and the wearing away of sand stone hills, at whose foot 102 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. it is placed. Tl.is is the asparagus ground^ of St. Sebastian. Beds are formed five feet wide, without any previous preparation except dig- ging and raking. In March the seed is sown in two drills, about two inches deep, and eighteen inches from the alleys, thus leaving a space of two feet between the drills. The rows run in- variably east and west—doublless in order that the plants may shade the ground during the heats of summer. When the seedlings are about six inches high, they are. thinned to some- thing more than a foot apart. Water is con- ducted once a day among the alleys and over the beds, so as to give the seedling an abundant and constant supply of fluid during the season of their growth. This is the cultivation during the first year. The second year, in the month of March, the beds are covered with three or lour inches of fresh night soil from the reset voirs of the town; it remains on them during the succeeding au- tumn; the operation of irrigation being con- tinued as during the first season. This exces- sive stimulous, and the abundant room the plants have to grow in, must necessarily make them extremely vigorous, and prepare them for the production of gigantic sprouts. In the spring, the asparagus is lit to cut. Doubtless all its energies are developed by the digging in of the manure in the autumn of the second year; and when it does begin to sprout, it finds its roots in contact with a soil of inex- haustible fertility. Previously, however, to the cutting, each bed is covered in the course of March very lightly wdth dead leaves, to the depth of about eight inches ; and the cutting does not commence till the plant peeps through this covering, when it is carefully removed from the stems, in order that the finest only may be cut, which are rendered white by their leafy cover- ing, and succulent by the excessive richness of the soil. In the autumn of the third year, after the first cutting, the leaves are removed, and the beds again dressed with fresh night-soil as before; and these operations are repeated year after year. In addition to this, the beds are half un- der salt water annually at spring tides. Let any one compare the mode of culture with ours, and there will be no room for w'ondering at the difference in the resejlt. The Spaniards use a light, sandy soil; we are content with any- thing short of clay. They irrigate; w'e trust to our rainy climate. Some years since, we had a bed of Asparagus which from some unknown and inscrutable cause, suddenly ceased growing; the spires no sooner attained a certain height, than, like the fabled trees around the tomb of Protesalaus, they withered and died away. We manured and watered, but all to no purpose, and we at last gave up all idea of renovating the plants, in despair. In digging about the roots, we found that they had been lacerated and almost wholly consumed by worms, a few of which were still at their work on the tubers. They were corn- worms, or bore »o near a resemblance to them that it would have been difficult to distinguish them apart. Influenced by the presumption that the roots were hopelessly injured, we determined to apply salt to the bed in order to test its efiicacy both on the asparagus, and in destroying the worms. We accordingly applied half a peck, I,, and to our surprise the asparagus started almost ' I immediately, and in a short time acquired a de- gree of vigor and luxuriance surpassing even its former growth. Since then we have used salt as an ordinary manure for this root, and our ex- perience has proved conclusively to our own mind that it is decidedly the best and most effi- cacious stimulant that can be applied. A correspondent says, “ 1 have an asparagus bed, 30 feet by 5 feet, on which I put one hun- dred weight of salt, about the middle of March, l| last year, and also this year. The increase of crop, both with regard to size and number, is most extraordinary.” In another place, a case is given where too heavy and often repeated dressings of salt destroyed the asparagus, though the precise amount of this over-dose is not given. HOKTBCCJI/iX'IS AL, CUTLtNSi, AN OUTLINE of the first principles of Houticultuhe. by John Lindley, F K. S. &c. &c., Professor of Bota- ny in the University of London, and assistant Secre- tary of the Horticultural Society. — [continued.] VIII. FRUIT. SOD. Fruit, strickly speaking, is the pist ilium arrived .at maturity. S^iG. When the calyx adheres to the pistillum, and grows with it to maturity, the fruit is call- ed inferior ; as the Apple. 211. But when the pistillum alone ripens, there being no adhesion to it on the part of the calyx, the Iruit is called superior; as the Peach. 212. The fruit is, therelore, in common lan- guage, the flower, or some part of it, arrived at its most complete state of existence; and, con- sequently, is itself a portion of the stunted branch. (153.) 213. The nature of its connection with the stem is therefore the same as that of the branch- es with each other, or leaves with their stem. 214. A superior fruit, consisting only of one, or of a small number of metamorphosed leaves, it has little or no power of forming a commu- nication with the earth and of feeding itself, as real branches have. (89.) 215. It has also very little adhesion to its branch; so that but slight causes are sufficient to detach it from the plant, especially at an ear- ly age, when all its parts are tender. 216. Hence the difficulty ol causing peaches and the like to stone, or to pass over that age, in which the vascular bundles that join them to the branch become woody, and secure them to their place. 217. For the same reason they are fed almost entirely by other parts, upon secreted matter which they attract to themselves, elaborate, and store up in the cavities of their tissue. 218. The office of feeding such fruit is per- formed by young branches which transmit nu- triment t'l It through the bark. (69.) 219. But as young branches can only trans- mit nutriment downwards, it follows that unless a fruit is formed on a part of a branch below a leal-bud, it must perish, 220. Unless there is some active vegetation in the stem above the branch on which it grows; when it may possibly live and feed upon secre- tions attracted by it from the main stem. 221. But inferior fruit, consisting at least of the calyx in addition to the pistillum, has a much more powerful communication with the branch ; each division of its calyx having at least one bundle of vascular and fibrous tissue, passing from it into the branch, and acting a.s a slay upon the centre to prevent its breaking off. 222. Such fruit may be supposed much more capable of esfablishicg a means of attracting secretions from a distance ; and consequently, is less liable to perish from want of a supplyoflood. 223. It is therefore not so important that an inferior fruit should be furnished with growing branches above it. 224. Fruit is exclusively fed by the secretions prepared lor it by other parts; it is therefore af- fected by nearly the same circumstances as flowers. 225. It will be large in proportion to the quantity of food the stem can supply to it; and small in proportion to the inability of the stem to nourish it. 226. For this reason, when trees are weak they should be allowed to bear very little, if any fruit; because a crop of fruit can only lend to increase their debility. 227. And in all cases each fruit should be so far separated from all others as not to be robbed of its food by those in its vicinity. 228. We find that nature has herself in some measure provided against injury to plants by excessive fecundity, in giving them a power of throwing off flowers, the Iruit of which cannot be supported. 229. The flavor of fruit depends upon the ex- istence of certain secretions, especially of acid and sugar; flavor will, consequently, be re- gulated by the circumstances under which fruit is ripened. 230. The ripening of fruit i.s the conversion of acid and other substances into sugar. 231. As the latter substance cannot be obtain* ed at all in the dark, is less abundant in fruit ripened in diffused light, and most abundant in fruit exposed to the direct rays of the sun, the conversion of matter into sugar occurs i:nder the same circumstances as the decomposition of carbonic acid. (141 and 279.) 232. Therelore, if Iruit be produced in situa- tions much exposed to the sun, its sweetness will be augmented. 233. And in proportion as it is deprived of the sun’s direct rays that quality will diminish. 234. So that a fruit which when exposed to the sun is sweet, when grown where no direct light will reach it, will be acid ; as Pears, cher- ries, &c. 235. Hence acidity may be corrected by ex- posure to light; and excessive sweetness, or in- sipidity, by removal from light. 236. It is the property of succulent fruits which are acid when wild, to acquire sweetness when cultivated, losing a part ol their acid. 237. This probably arises from the augmen- tation of the cellular tissue, which possibly has a greater pow’er than woody vascular tissue of assisting in the formation of sugar. 238. As a certain quantity of acid is essential to render fruit agreeable to the palate, and as it is the property of cultivated fruits to add to their saccharine matter, but not to form more acid than when wild, it follows that in selecting wild fruits for domestication, those which are acid should be preferred, and those which are sweet or insipid rejected; 239. Unless recourse is had to hybridism; when a wild insipid fruit may be po.ssibly im- proved, (204,) or may be the means of improv- ing something else. 240. It is very much upon such considera- tions as the foregoing that the rules of training must depend. IX. SEED. 241. The seed is the ovulum arrived at per- fection. 242 It consists of an integument enclosing an embryo wffiich is the rudiment of a future plant. 243. The seed is nourished by the same means as the fruit; and, like it, will be more or less perfectly formed, according to the abundance of its nutriment. 244. The plant developed from the embryo in the seed, will be in all essential particulars like its parent specie.'^; 245. Unless its nature has been changed by hybridi'ing. (204.) 246. But although it will certainly, under or- dinary circumstances, reproduce its species, it will by no means uniformly reproduce the par- ticular variety by which it was home. 247. So that seeds are not the proper means of propagating varieties. 248. Nevertheless, in annual or biennial plants, no means can be emploved for propaga- ting a variety, except the seeds ; and I'et the va- riety is preserved. 249. This is accomplished solely by the great care of the cultivator, and happens thus. 250. Although a seed will not absolutely pro- pagate the individual, yet as a seed will partake more of the nature of its actual parent than of any thing else, its progeny may be expected, as really happens, to resemble the variety fiom which It spruns, more than any other variety of its species. 251. Provided its purity have not been con- taminated by the intermixture ol other varieties. 252. Bv a careful eradication of all the vari- eties from the neighborhood ol that Irorn which seed is to be saved, by taking care that none but the most genuine forms of a variety are pre- served, as seed-plants: and by compelling by transplaBtation a plant to expend all its accu- mulated sap in the nourishment of its .seeds, in- stead of in the superabundant production of fo- liage, a crop of seed may be procured, the plants produced by which will, in great measure, have the peculiar propertie.s of the parent variety. THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 103 2.33. By a series oi progressive seed-savings upon the same plant, p'ants will be at length obtained, in which the habits ol the individual have become as it were fixed, and capable of such exact re-production by seed, as to form an exception to the generalrule ; as in turnips, rad- ishes, &e. 251. But if the least neglect occurs, in taking the neces.sary precautions (252,) to insure a uni- form crop ot seed, possessing the new fixed pro- perties, the race becomes deteriorated, in pro- portion to the want of care that has occurred, and loses its characters ol individuality. 255. In all vat ietfes those seeds may be ex- pected to preserve their individual characters most distinctly which have been the best nour- ished, (213;) it is consequently, those which should be selected in preference tor raising new plants from which seed is to be saved. 256. When seeds are first ripened, their em- bryo is a mass ofcellular substance, -containing starch, fixed carbon, o-r other solid matter; and in this state it will remain until fitting circum- j stances occur to call it into active life. | 257. These fitting circumstances are, a tern- i perature above 32 degrees Fahr., a moist medi- | um, darkness, and exposure to air. j 253. It then absorbs the moisture of the medi- j um in which it lies, inhales oxygen (278,) and j undergoes certain chemical changes; its vital] powers cause it to ascend by one extremity for | the purpose of finding light and decomposing its carbonic acid (279,) by parting with its accu- mulated oxygen,, and to descend by the other ex- tremity tor the purpose of finding a constant supply of crude nutriment. 259. Unless these conditions are maintained, seeds cannot germinate ; and, consequently an exposure to light is fatal to their embryo, be- cause (278) oxygen will not be absorbed in sul- ficient quantity to stimulate the vital powers of the embryo into action, for the purpose of part- ing with it again, by the decomposition of the carbonic acid that has been formed during its accumulation. (TTo be continued ) Artificial manures. From the Albany Cullivalor. The preparation and use of manures consti- tute one of the points in which the advance of modern agriculture is most apparent. For this advance, we are indebted to the application of chemical science to an investigation of the sub- stances most cotnmonlv used to promote the grow’th ot plants. An imitation of the operations ot nature ha.s thus been effected, in which there has been a decided improvement on the original, as the change necessary to conveit or- ganic matter into the fertilizing material is ef- fected in a very short time; the bulk diminish- ed while the efficiency is increased; and the disgusting offensive character beloging to some of the original compounds entirely done away. Substances, too, once wasted, or rather consi- dered of no value, are now in the cour.se of a lew weeks converted into manures of the first quality. Every discovery ot this kind is of im- portance to the agriculturist; for although some of them, it is probable, will not be made uselul on a large scale, and some of the preparations cannot become common in this country; sii.l there are many which we are confident will be extensively used everywhere; and the better they are known, the more highly appreciated by the farmer orgaidner. Poudrelte, or prepared night soil, isone of the most valuable of these prepared manures, con- centrating in a great degree the elements of fer- tility; and as prepared, being easily portable, used with facility, perfectly inoffensive, and very powerful in its action. The demand for this article is constantly increasing, and the prools of the value of the manure rapidly accumula- ting. The value of poudrette, compared with good stable or barn yard manure, is estimated as one ol the former to from 12 to 15 of the lat- ter; and some have even estimated the differ- ence as still greater. When we remember that this manulaciure is designed to convert what has always been a nuisance andsource of mul- tiplied diseases in onr cities, into a means ol fertility and wealth, its importance will be duly estimated. Another preparation, which is receivingsome favor, is that produced by Bommer’s patent, in which all ligneous or w’oody plants, such as straw, cornstalks, weeds, roots, sea grass, and in fact all vegetable matters, are converted into manure in a much shorter period than by the usual course ot decomposition. It is pronounc- ed, as- efficient as stable manure, more lasting, and costing but little. The process of prepar- ing this manure has nothing difficult about it. It is probable the patent, tor a time, even- were its value unquestioned, prevents the extensive use which this inode ot preparing vegetable matter might otherwise have obtained. Of the peculiar forms ot the process we know nothing ; but the testimony in its favor from those who have tried it, apjicars ample. Patent manures, patent implements, and patent medicines, are very apt, however, by practical farmers, to be placed in the same category. The English agricultural journals have with- in the past year frequently alluded to the quali- ties of a new fertilizing preparation called Dan- iel’s Patent Manure. The specifications of the patent have been received in this coun- try; and though evidently inte nded to m3'stify, rather than disclose, the real process of making the manure, it is easy to see that a powerful manure must be the result ol the combination. According to the specification, the materials of the manure are divided into three classes, — First: ligneous matters, peat, straw, weeds, &c. Second: bituminous matters ; sucli as mineral coal, (bituminous doubtless) asphallum, pitch made from coal tar, or other pitch, mineral resin, and also tar. Third: animal matter; such as butcher’s oflal, graves, flesh of dead ani- mals, also fish. The ligneous matters are reduced to powder by grinding, or by the action of caustic lime. The bituminous matters are also ground into powder; if sticky like pitch, a small quantity of dry quick lime is added to prevent adhesion to the machine ; if liquid, they are converted into vapor by dry distillation, in which vapor the ligneous materials are saturated; or it pre- ferred, the soft bituminous matters are di-'^sol ved in water, to which caustic alkali has been added, and in this the ligneous matters a-e steeped. — The animal matters are mixed with the ligneous and bituminous ones, and then the wdiole re- duced to a powder. Such a preparation cannot fail to be a fertili- zer of the mostpowerlul kind, though it is evi- dent the process needs much simplification be- fore it can be adapted to the use of farmers gen- erally. Guano is probably the most powerful natural uianure known ; and the artificial one that shall most nearly resemble that, will doubtless be the most valuable. Voelckel’s analysis, the latest and best ol this substance, as given by Dr. Dana in his Muck Manual, shows tiiatit contains in the various salts of ammonia 32 parts in 100, sulphates ol potash and soda 9 parts, phosphate o! lime 14 parts, soluble geine or hurniis 12 parts, and insoluble undetermined organic mat- ter20parls. The auificial manures are valua- ble in proportion as they furnish the materials for the ammonia, phosphates, and sulphate.s, which abound in guano. It is likely, indeed certain, that the immense masses of guano ex- isting on the islands of the Pacific, are in a very different chemical condition from what they were when first deposited by the sea fowl tha't frequent those coasts and islands; consequenily in no fresh manures in any country, can we ex- pect to find the same combination ol fertilizing substances as in guano. In no other country could such masses have remained without me wasting or dissipation of their most valuable parts, or their entire substanr-'; the nearly total absence of rain in the guano region, preventing such a result. The guano is, therefore, not on- ly the result of the accumulation, but the che- mical combination of ages, and what agricul- ture requires of science, is the discovery of the means of effecting in a short time what nature has been centuries performing. In all preparations of artificial manures, two conditions are requisite; first, value as a ferti= lizer; and second, facility and simplicity of preparation. With the first, the labor of man= ufacture is lost ; without the second, few far= mersvill be able to avail themselves of the be- nefits such manures offer. Thus far, we are inclined to the belief, that of all the artificial manues, poudrette best fulfils these two condi- tions; but it by no means follows that other combinations may not be discovered, equally simple, and more powerful. Of one thing we may be assured ; all such preparations, when brought within his reach and his means, will be hailed by the farmer with pleasure. Time is Money'. From ilie Unioa Agriculturist. Dear Sir : — I begin to fear that yourself and others may think that I do nothing but write; as I send you something for every number of your paper. Well, suppose that should be the conclusion, — if I had nothing else to do all would be well. But farmers have somethingto do, besides writing for agricultural papers. — This all know; how then, many will inquire, does C. find lime to write. If I may answer the question myself, I shall say, that I am troubled to dispose of my spare time — of the long winter ev'enings — of the stormy days, and a great many bits and ends of time. I may be answered — leach your children; make and mend such articles as you can that you need; read the newspapers, and such books as you Lave or can get. This 1 do, and yet there is spare time. My wife and self manage to teach seven children; and during the winter, keep them at their studies more hours than if they were at school. I make and repair all the wood part of ray tools, and some of the iron, and repair all our boots and shoes; my wife and daughters, the oldest sixteen, work up our wool, about 70 pounds, both spin and weave it; myself and boy, thirteen years old, till about forty acres, and provide for stock that require 40 tons ol hay, besides all the coarse fodder that we can mus- ter; this, besides all the incidental work about the house and farm, we do without hiring.— Books and papers are literally worn out by be- ing read. The Chicago Democrat or Union Agriculturist, is hailed with as much joy as an old friend ; and if, as we frequently do, we re- ceive a paper Irom distant friends, nothing could give greater pleasure, except the appearance ol those friends. A great wonder with me is, how men and families spend their time, without even a paper or a book, nr any thing else of the kind. Even their Bible might as well be made of w’ood, bound and gilt, to save appearances, as to be filled with the words ot God. Never have I written, except in the evening; and then generally have some half dozen chil- dren about the same time at their studies. — Some with slates, some w'ith books, and some with more mischief than study. Even now, one little one pops up her head, with, “Father, how much is eleven fmes six T’ “Set down eleven and muhiplv it by six.” “ What, six times eleven 1” “No. six times one, and then six times one again.” “ O ! I see ; sixU’-six.” “Now multiplvT, 8 and 9 in the same way?” 'Sol wri'e, teach a.nd rest mvself; at the same time killing three birds with one stone. Now to mv reasons for writing. If I say I write to benefit others, none will believe me ia these selfish times; well then, I write to amuse myself, and to use time. A. Churchill. Avon, Mavek. 1841. ' 'HJPILI' A correspondent ot the Charleston Evening Post mentions a rattlesnake that was found dead in the woods, near Georgetown, South Caroli- na, which was 7 feet long, had 73 rattles^ and teeth an inch and a half long. 104 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. AUGUSTA, GA. VOT, III., I>0. 7 JULY, 1845. Ai ticks intended for publication in the South- ern Cultivator (except advertisements) must be in the hands of the Editor at Athens by 12 o’clock of the 20th of the month ; otherwise they cannot be inserted in the number published on the first oi the month next thereafter. Many postmasters continue to send money for subscriptions to the editor at Athens. They are p irtlc! larly requested to address, hereafter, all letters relating to subscriptions to the publishers at Augusta. When will the South awake to a proper sense of its own true interest, and of the importance of its industry not only to the rest of the United States, but to the whole civilized world. Just look at this table, made out by the National In- telligencer from the public records, for the year ending 30th June, 1844. TABLE Shewing the export of leading articles of domestic produce, for the yearending the 3t)lh June, 1814. Ac- cording to the table, the amount exported of each article was as follows : Cotton $54,063,601 Tobacco 8,397,282 Rice 2,182.468 Bread stuffs 9,056,961) Beef, Pork, dec 6,149,379 Products of the sea 3,350.501 Products of the forrest 5,80^,712 Manufactures of cotton .2,898,780 Other manufactures 5.0S0.854 All other articles 2,726.760 Total amount of exports was $99,715,197 We say again, e.xamine this table carefullv, and compare the exports of Southern agricultu- ral products with the exports of all other arti- cles of every sort put together. Total exports, near. $100,000,000 Cotton alone, more than half the whole, over. 54.000, 000 Cotton and Rice, over 56,000,000 ■Cotton, Rice and Tobacco, over 64,000,000 All other exports, less than 36,000,000 The reader’s attention is particularly directed to the Report, published in this number, of the Committee on Farms of the Agricultural Society of Pendleton District, S. C, The whole report w Ube found very interesting; and more espe- cia :y that part of it which describes the farm and extraordinary managem.ent of the Hon. John C. Calhoun. The reader will, we hope, have detected ani corrected for himself, in the ninth line of the editorial article on feeding plants, in our last number, the unfortunate error by which the word grapes was put for grasses. Products of Southern Industry. Somebody has written, that “mankind might do without physicians, it they would observe the laws ot healthy without lawyers, if they would keep their tempers; without soldiers, if they would observe the laws of peace ; and with- out preachers, if each one would take care of his own conscience;— but there is no doing without farmers.” If this be true as regards fanners, how much stronger the case is as regards the planters of the South, must be manifest on an examination of the following table. How would the United States get along without the 50 or 60 miliions of wealth brought into the country every year by our cotton crop 1 What would become of the millions of people in other parts of the United Sia’es who live chiefly by means of this wealth 1 Is it at all surprising that the people of other States, who, by means of their own resources, can hardly keep soul and body together, seeing what the annual income of the South is, should strive so diligently to get their hands into our pocketsi But it is surprising — it does move our especial wonder — that our people should, so patiently, and lor so long a time, have submit- ted to a system of pillage according to law, and of waste from their own folly and bad manage- ment, that has made the South one wide scene of desolation, compared with the appearance of things among our neighbors who are living mainly on the fruits of our industry. With such an income annually, what ought not the South to be--and what is its condition ? Let every one who has any hand in the creation of this vast amount of wealth, look around him, and ask himself what has become of it. Then 1ft him, with firm resolve, set about eorrecling, as far as he can, the existing stale of things, by supplying his wants, as far as possible, from his own plantation; buying, if he must buy, nothing that he can do without, of either food, clothing, implements or luxuries, that is not the product of Southern labor; and, above all, re- pressing in himself, and discountenancing in others, that spirit of absenteeism, that has wrought us, perhaps, as much mischief as any other single folly we have indulged ourselves in. Southern Folly. OurSouthern people are, beyond all question, the slowest to learn wisdom of any people on this earth. Here we are with an impoverished soil, a staple to the cultivation of which all our energies have been devoted in times past, now reduced to a price in the market that barely re- munerates the planter for his outlay of capital and labor— if, indaed, it does that; pressed down and plundered and spurned by an unprincipled combination, who contrive, by iniquitous laws, that we shall eat only such part of the truits of our own labor as they choose to allow; and surrounded by enemies who are both openly and in .secret striking at the very existence of our insLitution.s, and of our property; and yet we coolly and calmly and inconsiderately in- dulge in our old habits of profusion and extra- vagance, formed when cotton bore a good price, ^ and money was abundant; when the Constitu- tion afforded us protection from plunder, and our institutions were not meddled with. Read the following extract from an account, by the New York Herald, of the late race on Long Is- land between Peytona and Fashion, and the conclusion is irresistible that the people of the South have yet to suffer more severely before they come to their senses, ft i.s too bad to have it said of us, sneeringly and contemptuously, “ how freely the South will spend its winnings — Peytona didn’t fly round the Union course so fast as her liberal supporters will dash through their tens and their fitties, ’till they reach the last dollar.” “The Southern men will spend their last cent heie.” Surely men who will act so as to expose themselves to such remarks— who will act in a manner so utterly ruinous to the part of the country in whic!» they live, and in which they expect to die -squandering their money among a people who, when all is spent, regard them with supreme contempt, who have not one single feeling of sympathy with us of the South. Surely men who act thus ought to sufier. From the New York Herald. And has not the North been well licked? Half a million of dollars has been lost. Thai’s the way to reach the tender sensibilities of the Northern men. As The touched needle trembles to the pole, so do their souls forever turn to that great ner- vous centre ot sentiment and feeling— the pock- et. Thai is the only accessible avenue to their humanity, and into that the South has now “ walked” with a vengeance. Half a million of dollars! How the poor creatures bleed ! The shock vibrates in every nerve. It will take years of thimble-rigging to make up the loss to many of our respectable, honorable, liberal, up- right, loafing Northern “jockeys.” And then, how freely the South will spend its winnings! Peytona didn’t fly round the Union Course so fast as her liberal supporters will dash through their “tens” and “fifties,” till th=y reach (he last dollar. The hotel-keepers— the caharehers --the professors of the bilLe—?Lnd all the practi- cal philosophers who kindly reduce the plethora ol the votaries of pleasure and “the turf,” are felicitating themselves on the victory of the South. The Southern men, say they, will spend their last cent here; whilst the Northern and Eastern men, it they had won, would have buttoned up their pockets and “ mizzled.” Keuilwortli Pigs. The American Agriculturist, speaking of the pigs purchased of R. L. Allen, of Buffalo, by Da- vid Bryan, of Bellevue, Talbot county, Georgia, says they are of “ the largest and finest white breed to be found in England. Two sows of this lot were judged to weigh over 500 lbs., in good breeding condition, and may be fattened to weigh 700 lbs. The yearling boar was large and fine and would weigh about 400 lbs. There were some younger ones in the lot quite as [iromising. These animals were ordered by Mr. Bryan, for the purpose of meeting the taste of those plan- ters who wish more size than is generally found in the other good breeds. We are confident they will be satisfied in this respect, and get their pork with a reasonable amount of feed, which is sel- dom the case with overgrown animals. We are glad to nolice these improvements going forward at the South. We can confidently recommend the importation of Mr. Bryan to his neighbors in Georgia.” Oatmeal as Human Food. The American Agriculturist, in the number for March, spoke in commendation ot the value of oatmeal as food for man. Thereupon also Blackwood’s Magazine holds forth in the fol- lowing lofty style in praise ot Scotland’s favo- rite oat-cakes and porridge, bannocks and brose ; “You won’t pity us Scotch oatmeal caters any more, Mr. Cockney, we guess. Experi- THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR 105 ence and science are both on our side. Whai makes your race horses the best in the world, may be expected to make your peasantry so too. We offer you, therefore, a lair bet. You shall take ten English plowmen, and feed them upon two pounds and a half of wheaten flour a day, and we shall take as many Scotch plow- men, and feed them upon the same weight of oatmeal a day— if they can eat so much, for that is doubtful— and we shall back our men against yours for any sum you like. They shall walk, run, work or fight you, it you like it, and they shall thrash you to your heart’s content. We should like to convince you that Scotch porridge has some real solvt metal in it. We back the oat cake and the porridge against all the w'heaten me.sses in the world. We defy your home made bread, your baker’s bread, you household bread, your leaven bread, and your brown Georgies— your fancy bread and your raisin bread — your baps, rolls, scones, muffins, crumpets and cookies — your bricks, biscuits, baltes, and rusks— your Bath buns, and your Sally luns — your tea ca’ires, and saffron cakes, and slim cakes, and plank cakes, and pan cakes, and soda cakes, and currant cakes, and sponge cakes, and seed cakes, and girdle cakes, and singing hinnies— yourshort bread and yourcur- rantbuns — and it there be any other names by which you designate your wheaten abomina- tions, we defy and detest them a11. We swear by the oat cake and the porridge, the substantial bannock and the brose — long may Scotland pro- duce them, and Scotchmen live and fight upon them !” Sheep. Yv^'e have thrown together below several ex- tracts from other papers, on the subject of sheep raising and wool, as a new business for the South. From the South Carolinian of May 15. The Carolina Mountains for Sheep Walks. — There is not in the world a finer country for sheep husbandry than the moun- tainous regions of South Carolina. II a few of our enterprising landholders, who are largely interested in those high-lands, would unite in some plan of operations for inducing the settle- ment ol respectable emigrants from Europe or (he Northern States — -emigrants familiar with the grazing business, and wool growing — our mountain regions would soon present returns scarcely interior in value to the products of the lands in the best agricultural sections of the State. The entire Districts of Spartanburg, Greenville, Pickens, Anderson, with portions ot Laurens, Union and York, would afford room for many millions ot sheep. Sheep husbandry is rendered profita’ole with land valued at thirty dollars an acre in the hard climate of Vermont, also in Spain, Ger- many and England, in which countries land cannot be bought at any price; and with these examples before us, wtiy should we longer ne- glect to improve the resources within our reach 1 Let us hope that a few of our enterprising land- holders will unite their efforts and go ahead re- solutely in this good work. We think we could refer them to persons who could devise a plan of operations that could not fail lo prove largely beneficial to all concerned. From the South Carolinian of May 22. Fine Plock.s of Sheep i.n the viciNiTY op Columbia, S. C. — The practical agriculturist and genuine lover of rural affairs, would be both gratified and amply repaid by visiting tlie magnificent flocks of sheep belonging to Col. Wade Hampton and Mr. B. F. Taylor, in the neighborhood of this city. Those wiio wish to be convinced of the fact that we can successful- ly raise fine sheep in our Southern climate, should go by all means. Examples like these are worth more than a heaped up mountain ol arguments, theoretically prepared by ihose who take interest in advocating such things through the medium of the agricultural journals. The flock of Col. Hampton is superior to any other we have ever seen in any part of the U. States. They are pure blooded Liecesters, and Bake- well himself were he living, would be proud to own them. They cannot have lost much, if anything, of their characteristic superiority, if wejudgeby .some of his animals which have matured. Mr. Taylor’s flock is chiefly Merino w'ith a dash of the blood ofihe African or Broad- tailed sheep, and they have shown themselves to be extremelv fine and prolific. He recently showed us the fleece of a buck lamb 14 months old, which weighed lOj pounds. Dr. Parker, the Superintendant ot the Lunatic Asylum in this city, has just shorn a pair of last spring’s Liecester lambs, about 14 months old, bred by Col. Hampton, and the weight cf the fleecefrom the buck lamb was 13^ pounds whilst that from the ewe lamb weighed pounds. Col. Hampton has shorn all his lambs of the present season, and we will make the wool growers of the North open their eyes, when we state that the average w'eight of the fleece of about sixty head, was four pounds each. He has done this in order to relieve them from the oppressive heat of summer. On visiting his flock a few days since, we found them in fine condition, without the least appearance ol disease of any kind amongst them, and what is remarkable, they have kept in good order on very short pasturage, which is one Ol rhe best evidences w'e -can give of the thrift of this remarkable breed of sheep. With such flattering results before us, why should we despair ol making a great portion of our State profitable in this branch of rural en- terprise. We have already adverted to the su- perior advantages ol our mountain regions as sheep walks, and we shall on some other occa- sion gather information and give our own views upon the propriety of introducing good breeds of sheep in themidille sections and lower-coun- try of South Carolina. That the whole sand- hill region bordering on our extensive swamps IS eminently adapted to this business, has been fully proven by the success ot the flocks above mertioned. We should like lo see such flocks obtain throughout the State, and we fancy the gentle men above named would do all in their power to gratify such individuals as might desire to make the experiment, by lurnishing them supe- rior slock animals, at a moderate rate, when their prices are compared with the heavy and hazardous expenses ol importing them immedi- ately from England or the North. John Randolph said he w'ould vvalk a hun- dred yards out o-f his May merely to kick a sheep. We would go a journey of fifiy miles lo admire a good flock. He might have been wise in his aversion lo these animals. We know we are wiser -in our great fancy I'or them. After reading these extracts, consider what Mr. Buckley of Yates coun'y, N. Y., says on the same subject in a letter to the editor ol the Albany Cultivator. “I cannot help thinking that the middle and eastern portion ot Tennessee, the western part ot North Carolina, and northprn part of Geor- gia, has greater natural advantages lor the rais- ing of sheep than any other portion ol the U. States. I spent the summer season exploring the mountains ol those State, and may give you some further account ot them in future letters.” Then we have a letter from Mr. Skinner to Mr. Clingman, of the Buncombe district, N. C., in which he says ; “Well, I am happy to add that two enterpri- sing and most meritorious citizens of your State have agreed to take measures for the importa- tion ol the Alpaca sheep into the mountains of North Carolina.” In Tennessee they are actively engaged in increasing their stock of sheep. Indeed, every where they are going ahead of us in Georgia, in efforts to rescue themselves from the embar- r ssmenls produced by Ute : tale ol the cotto i markets. When will our people be aroused to a proper sense of their own interest! In this connection we cannot omit to call the reader’s attention to one of the difficulties atten- dant on raising sheep— and no trifling one it is. From the Frankfort (Ky ) Commonwealth. Doss and Sheep. — A lew nights ago, we learn sixty-three choice ewes, selected for breed- ers on account ot the fineness of their wool owned by our friend Capt. John A. Holton of Franklin county, were killed by d^gs. ’ The destiuciion of sheep by dogs has long been a S(ot say how many mud-puddles we had waded through, and how many dung-heaps we had crossed, and what places we explored, and how every farming topic was discussed ; but I will say, that she pursued her object with- out anv of that fastidiousness and affected deli- cacy which pass with some persons for refine- ment, but which in many cases indicate a weak it not a corrupt mind. The mind which is oc- cupied with concerns and subjects that are wor- thy to occupy it, thinks very little of accessories which are of no importance. I will say, to the credit of Englishwomen — I speak, of course, of the upper classes — that^it seems impossible that there should exist a more delicate sense of pro- priety than is found universally among them; and yet you will perceive at once that their good sense teaches them that true delicacy is much more an element of the mind, in the person who speaks or observes,, that an attribute of the sub- ject which is spoken about or observed. A friend told me that Canova assured him that, in modelling the |w’onderful statue of the Three Graces, from real life, he was never at any time conscious of an improper emotion or thought; and if any man can look at this splendid pro- duction, this affecting imbodiment of a genius almost creative and divine, with any' other emo- tion than that of the most profound and respect- ful admiration, he may well tremble for the ut- ter corruption, within him, of that moral nature which God designed should elevate him above the brute creation. Now, I do not say that the lady to whom I have referred was herself the manager of the farm; that rested entirely w'ith her husband; but I have intended simply to show how grateful and gratifying to him must have been the lively interest and sympathy which she took in con- cerns w'hich necessarily so much engaged his time and attention ; and how the country could be divested of that dullness and ennui, so cflen complained of as inseparable from it, w’hen a cordial and practical interest is taken in the con- cerns w'hich nece.ssarily belong to rural life. I meant also to show — as this and many other ex- amples which have come under my observation emphatically do show — that an interest in, and a familiarity w’iih, even the most humble occu- pations of agricultural life, are not inconsistent with the highest refinements of taste, the most improved cultivation of the mind, the practice of the polite accomplishments, and a grace, and elegance, and dignity of manners, unsurpassed in the highest circles of society. Ijife ill the Couulry. The following exquisite gena we take from the third number, just published, of Colman’s European Agriculture. “To live in the countr’, and enjoy all its pleasures, we should love the country To love the eountry is to take an interest in all that belongs to the country — its occupations, its sports, its culture, and its improvements, its fields and its forests, its trees and rocks, its val- leys and hills, its lakes and rivers; to gather the flocks around us, and feed them from our own hands; to make the birds our friends, and caM them all by their names ; to wear a chaplet of roses as if it were a princely diadem ; to rove over the verdant fields with a higher pleasure than we should tread the carpeted halls of regal courts ; to inhale the fresh air of the morning as if it were the sweet breath of infancy ; to brush the dew from the glittering fields as if our path were strewed with diamonds; to hold converse with the trees of the forrest, in their youth and in their decay, as if they could tell us the histo- ry of their owa times, and as if the gnarled bark of the aged among them were all written over with the record of by-gone days, of those who planted them, and those who early gather- ed their fruits; to find hope and joy bursting like a flood upon our hearts, as the darting rays of light gently break upon the eastern horizon ; to ses the descending sun robing himself in bur- nished clouds, as if these were the gathering glories of the divine throne ; to find in the clear evening of winter, our chamber studded with countless gems of living light ; to feel that “ we are never less alone than when alone;” to make even the stillness and solitude of the country el- oquent; and above all, in the beauty of every object which piesents itself to oursenses, and in the unbought provision which sustains, and comforts, and fills with joy, the countless mul- titudes of living existences which people the land, the water, the air, every where to reple- tion ; to see the radiant tokens of an infinite and inexhaustible beneficence, as they roll by us, and around us, in one ceaseless flood; and in a clear and bright daj^ of summer, to standout in the midst of this resplendent creation, circled by an horizon which continually retreats from our advances, holding its distance undiminished, and with the broad and deep blue arches ol hea- ven over us, whose depths no human imagina- tion can fathom ; to perceive this glorious tem- ple all instinct with the presence ot the Divini- ty, and to feel, amidst all this, the brain grow- ins: dizzy with wonder, and the heart swelling with an adoration and a holy joy, absolutely in- capable of utterance this it is to love the country, and to make it, not the home of the person only, but of the soul. I'HE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. (ffitiginal Commitnicntions. Manures. — Do they Sink or Evaporate ? Mr. Editor In the last number of the Cul- tivator, you invite planters and farmers to write ■out their experience for publication, not stilting themselves on “big words” from the dictionary, but in plain language, such as would be used in talking with each other, you kindly promising to correct errors in spelling and grammar. Embol- dened by the invitation and promise, and holding you to the latter, I address myself to the work proposed, and although I give no experiments of hty own, I hope to make some useful remarks on the experiments of another, to wit: a brother far mer (at least I suppose he is one) living over in South Carolina, who writes for the Temperance Advocate, (an excellent paper that, I know from its name,) and whose essay you republished on page 7Q and called it “ excellent.” Now, I am a farmer, and want to talk to friend “ Coatswood” (the writer referred to) as if we were neighbors, and had just met and were sitlingonthe dividing fence between our farms, or just out of the field on a log in the shade. But as I can’t write a di- alogueri must do all of the talking myself, and beg your indulgence, Mr. Editor, if I write in a discennected and desultory manner. Every farmer will concur with the South Car- olinian in advising that manures be so applied as to secure their most lasting benefits, as well as in the caution to guard against waste. But in determining as to the best means of doing the one, or avoiding the other, many things must be kept in view, such as the kind of soil and subsoil, the sort of crop, the mode of cultivation, &c. — points on which I shall say but little or nothing now, only so far as aiay become necessary in d's- cussing the question, “does manure ever sink?" or rather, in reviewing certain experiments made to sustain the negative of that question. Coatswood denies that it can sink, and proceeds to the proof on this wise : He fills a cider barrel nearly to the top with clean sand, then pours on the sand the “ most impure liquid manure 5” af- ter which he is able to draw off “nearly pure watei-” from a hole in the lower end of the barrel. He says, too, “the impurities which constitute the manure will have been detained by the sand, by filtration, within a short distance of the top of the barrel'” Right curious, this! If C. econo- mises no better in other things than he does in labor-saving, he will net de tor a teacher in agri- culture. Two and a half feet of sand in the bar- rel, and the manure detained by the sand within a “ short distance” of the top ! Now, it seems to me that a “ short distance” of sand in the barrel, say six inches, would have saved two feet of la- bor, i. e., the labor of putting in the two feet of unnecessary sand. For I suppose he will admit that six inches, perhaps less, is a “ short dis- tance” of sand. But peradventure he had some apprehensions that with less than a barrel full of sand, the water might not have been so pure as it was; and he says it was “ nearly pure,” net perfectly. Next I would inquire what does C. mean by impure liquid manure? He certain- ly does not mean v/ine, for in filtering that arti- cle, “ I guess,” he would not have found much of the impurities about the top. 1 suppose something from a Bommer vat, or perhaps a buck- et of water brought to the consistency of unboil- ed mush by due admixtures from the stable, or cowpen, or henhouse, would make the liquid ex- perimented with. A.t all events either of these will do, on the score of impurity, for such an ex- periment; and we (repeating the experiment) take some and throw it up, the water sinks, the fibrous, earthy, and such like parts constituting the chief bulk, remain on top ; the finer parts of decomposed matter sink deeper, and the still fi- ner deeper still, until the water gets to the bottom and is dravrn “ from the spigot (he means the hole) nearly pure water” — that is, freed from all the grosser animal, vegetable and earthy impu- rities, but still holding in solution or suspension some organic matter and all the soluble salts which the manure contained — salts highly prized now-a-days for their fertilizing properties — and he will not deny, “in this day of enlightenment,” that they possess such properties. But, if he does, I wash my hands of his agricultural heresy and turn him over to Liebig to be better instruct- ed. _ Salts can’t be separated from water by fil- tration. Distillation and evaporation, which arc nearly the same in principle, are the only means by which it can be done, (except some little things in this line that chemists sometimes do, and w'hich are entirely irrelevant ) No, friend Coatswood, you can’t do it; at least this is my opinion. But if you can, your fortune is made. “All that a man hath will he give for his life.” Let mariners know your success. Let all cum- brous water casks be given to the waves, and your filter be used in their stead, and then fam- ishing at sea for fresh water will never happen until the ocean dries up. C. next says it is upon this principle that far- mers clarify cider, grocers purify wine, and con- fectioners do something, thatisnot printed for our edification. But 1 guess the cider remains sw^eet, and the wine alcoholic, after the process, each retaining every essential quality and constituent, otherwise it would be a losing business to them, and proof against me. “If we look at the operations of nature,” says C., “ we shall recognise it there. If the impuri- ties on or near the surface of the earth w'ere car- ried down by rain, we should never be able to get a palatable drink of water.” Now, that is a fact : just the thing I am trying to prove. If you will come down here, friend C., into our fiat piney woods country — where the whole face of the earth is too level for water to run off, and as po- rous and sandy as that barrel you “fixed” — and drink some of our best water, from gushing springs and wells, as you poetically call them, you will conclude with me, that you never wrote or uttered a truer sentiment in your life, for the best is bad indeed, from the cause above stated, and the bad, though strained of wiggle- tails, is yet decidedly “unpalatable.” The next experiment i notice is a bottomless box, filled with manure, and put on a stone, ex- posed to sun and rain. In reference to which our writer says, “ a method which I select as rendering it certain that no part can sink” — a sentiment in which I most heartily concur with him. But he will find that there is another way of “ escape” besides “ at the top,” if he will go to the box the next rainy day, and see the rich looking ooze (tobacco chewers know the color) that fiows from it. An ooze that hundreds of us misguided and ignorant country people use to water and enrich our plant beds, imagining it is the strength of the manure, so far as decomposi- tion has disengaged its strenath, and roundly as- serting and -pertinaciously maintaining that plants grow faster, get bigger, and look better by its use than those in the next row that receive no such attent'km. Friend C. next says, manure exposed “to sun alone will in a very short time become entirely inert.” If this be so, Mr. Editor, you, as a bene- volent man ought to give extensive publicity to it, a, id save from unnecessary labor and exposure the thousand mariners that frequent the sunny little island of Ichaboe to procure that worthless stuff Guano, which has been accumulating there since the days of our great grand father Noah. Our essayist says manure is sooner lost on sandy than on clayey land, and accounts for it by the greater heat of the former producing increas- ed evaporation- I admit there is more or less lost in any kind ofland by evaporation, and more in sandy than in clayey lands. This is partly owing to the greater heat, and partly to the want of tenacity in the former, facilitating its escape upwards or downwards, as rain or sunshine may favor the one or the other, By leaching ashes we get ley, the water percolates (allow one dictiona- ry word) the ashes, dissolves the potash, and comes out ley, or potash in solution, and in this solution are many impurities. Is it any more strange or unreasonable that the strength of ma- nure should sink more or less in any land, but especially in sandy lands which have not a good clay or “ stone” foundation 7 If manure don’t sink, how happens it that corn i? so much bene- fited by it when thrown on the top of the ground around each hill, and that too before the manure is covered ■ndtli earth 7 Why is the water “un- palatable,” where there are large districts of very rich land, esp.-^cially level land, whatever may be the nature of the undersoil or substratum, if salts can be filtered out, and organic matter never sinks 7 Why the deterioration of water in cities and even in some of our country towns, which have been long built and densely populated? — How does a meathouse near a well injure its wa- ter? Let C. answer these, audit will be an an- swer to a hundred kindred questions that misht be propounded. Professor Brandesays, he “fre- quently found the wells of London contaminated by organic matter,” and Dr. Clark, professor of Chemistry in Maiischal College, Aberdeen, states “that the organic matter which passes i”.to the water from sewers is not separable by filtration.” The analysis of other waters would show the same result. Indeed, for some water no chemi- cal test or apparatus is needed. The tongue and the nose decide the question. Mr. Editor, that abominable tyrant. Fashion, rules in other things besides dress, furniture, equipage, &c. ; he invades our ancient, honora- ble andinderendent province. I deny his right, and abjure all allegiance to him. He now says, every thins like manure exhales or evaporates. What will he say next 7 One interpolated extract from friend Coats- wood and I shall be done for the present. “ I have shown that manure does” sink as well as evaporate, and does both “more rapidly from sand than from clay. What is the necessary in- ference? Is it not that the practice of makinga shallower deposit in sand than in clay” should be continued where there is not a good clay founda- tion. May, 1945. Salamander. Bermnda Grass. Mr. Camak : — I have seen in the v’arious peri- odicals of the day, a number of communications upon the subject of Bermuda Grass; and as I have, perhaps, had more dealings with that grass than any man in the country, permit me to give you the result of my experience with that “ crit- ter.” I have had the Bermuda grass on spots of my land for seventeen years or more, and 1 have tried all reasonable ways to destroy it, hut I have found only one plan to succeed ; and that is, to plow it up in the winter, two or three times, deep and well; in the spring, afterit puts up, with the aid of a mattock under its roots, pull up every living particle that can be found, shake the dirt well out of its roots, and expose it to the hot sun for several days, then turn it over and expose it again in like manner; plow the ground again ; let it lie until what grass is left comes up tolera- bly well ; treat this crop as before, and repeat. This course, in two j'ears, will effectually destroy it. Never disturb it with the plow or hoe only expressly to destroy it. The idea of destroying it by covering it up, or by sowing the ground in small grain for several years in succession, or by cultivating the ground in any other way, is all a notion founded on inex- perience. I have covered it over with green pine brush, cut small, laid close as possible, and pack- ed hard, waist deep, and have adopted various other plans to destroy it, but none have succeed- ed at all, at all, but the plan before mentioned. Covering it over well with brush, green or dryu and letting it remain there a month or two, arid then burning it off, or burning log heaps upon it in order to destroy it, I know, from experience, to be labor lost. Planking it over, as some have suggested, and breaking the joints, to say noth- ing of the expense of the project, is all nonsense. The idea has gone abroad that it will not grow in the shade, in briar beds, nor in the woods. This idea is partly true. It does not grow so well un- der these circumstances, nevertheless I can show it growing under all these circumstances. I can show it growing in a briar bed that reminds me of Fall’s thicket, so dense “he could not stick a butcher knife in it;” and yet it grows luxuriant- ly, and is now from knee to waist high, and thick as grass gets to be. It is said to enrich land. This may be true, but I have never reaped any benefits from it in this way. All the profits that I have ever realis- ed from it, in any way whatever, have come to me “ over the left shoulder.” Some say it makes first rate pasturage. My experience upon this point is this : I have an acre of ground in front of my house covered with it, and another acre at the end of my house that has but little of the Bermuda grass upon it. On an average, I find ten head of stock grazing upon the acre that has but little of the Bermuda grass upon it, to where I find one head of stock feeding upon the Bermu- da acre, notwithstanding the Bermuda acre is well matted and always affords good grazing, whilst the other acre is kept fed to the ground. I have a calf pasture of about ten acres, tolera- bly well spotted over with Bermuda grass, and the balance of the ground is covered vith broom sedge and other spontaneous productions. The Bermuda is often suffered to head whilst the oth- er grass is kept cropt to the ground. 108 THE SOUTHERN CU1.TIVATOR. It is p.jssib!e that the Bermuda grass is nutri- cious, and does stock admirably well when they can get nothing else to eat, but it is not their choice grass. The Bermuda grass is destined to ruin this country unless the arm of the law interposes a barrier to its dissemination, by imposing the heaviest kind of penalty upon him who dares to spread it. Once rooted in a yard, or on any por- tion of a plantation, and it is as good to take that plantation as a sevenpence is lor a half pint. — Look at the fine plantations destroyed about Hillsborough, Povvelton and other sections of the State by this grass; and is it reasonable to sup- pose that the owners of these fertile lands would have surrendered them to this grass if they could have arres<'ed its course 1 Not they —too much sense had they to enter into any such specula- tion. John W. Pitts, Newhorn, Ga., June 6, 1815. Bermuda Grasse Mr. Camak: — My experience with Bermuda Grass commenced some eight years ago. When I came to Athens my lot was comphtely set with it; and about three quarters of an acre was an old field which appeared to have been worn out, and had not been cultivated lor seve- ral years, in the month of August, I enclosed it, and sowed it in wheal and turnips, 1 had through the win er a very fine crop of turnips ; and in the month of June following 1 harvested eight bushels ol fine wheat. In the fall I plow- ed it, and in March planted it in corn, putting the drills seven leet aparh I plowed the corn twice, running three furrows next the corn, and leaving the middle of the rows undisturbed. In the course of the summer, I cut and saved at least five hundred pounds of as fine hay as 1 could have wished for; and in the fall gathered about four barrels of corn. I have cultivated the land ever since, and have never put one spoonful of manure on it; and I have never failed to make a fine crop of corn, peas and beans; and I believe the land is much better now than it was the first year 1 cultivated it, and produces more. The land lies somewhat rolling, and there is not the beginning of a gully in it. This then is another advantage to land, that Bermuda grass effectually prevents it from washing. Again, my lot and yard were thickly set with this grass, f planted my yard in fruit trees — peach, apple, pear and cherry trees. They have done well, and bear fine fruit without cul- tivation; and every farmer knows that broom sedge will destroy an orchard in a few years if not cultivated. In order to destroy Bermuda grass, cover it with plank, chips, or pine brush, and you will soon get clear of it. I find n to be the finest grass I ever hal for my horses, hogs and cows, and even chickens. But keep it out of your garden. I have dug my Irish potatoes and found it had grown through some of them. John Felton. ALkens^ May, 1815. Bermuda Grass. Will the Editor of the Southern Cultiva- tor, or Mr. John Cunningham of Green.sboro, or any others who have had experience on the subject, please answer, through the- ci lumns of the Southern Cultivator, the following in- quiries?—viz : What would be tlie expense of enriching land by planting Bermuda Grass and turrJng it under, compared with the outlay required when leaves and other like substance.s are used? Would net the expense of planting, turning under, and exira la’your in tending the land af- ter the grass, be Zessthan the cost of manuring land by any other means of which k’C have any knowledge ? May not Bermuda Grass be made tr do for the South, adl that clover does for the North ? After the Bermuda Grass has been turned under will it require more labour to tend the land than it would if it was well stocked with crab grass? Respectfully, P, Alonroe, Waltaii Co., Ga., June, 1815. A Grape Crop safer than most others a- gaiust injury byiate Frosts and Drouths. Most kinds of grain are sometimes injured by late frosts in the spring, and most kinds of fruit, as apples, peaches, pears, &e., are some- times destroyed thereby, as was the case on the night of the Sth of April, in this region of our country. But the prospect of a grape crop is now as good as if no such frost had occurred; for the grape leaves and blossoms, for the most part, had not pat forth. Again, there is some- thing peculiar in the formation of blossoms and fruit on grape vines; as they are capable ol an entire new growth the same season. Hence, if all the leaves and blossoms are destroyed by a Irost, they will come out again, and a crop en- sue notwithstanding; as in the case mentioned by the late Mr. Herbemont, ol Columbia, S. C., where grape vines are more subject to injuries by late frosts than here. His entire crop of grapes he once considered ruined, as the blos- soms and all the foliage on his vines w'ere de- stroyed; but an entirely new growth produced abundantly. In my experience of more than a dozen years, I have never failed of a grape crop from late frosts, or any other cause; though some foreign varieties I once eulrivated, and some American kinds, as the Isabella and Ca- tawba frequently rotted on the vines ere matur- ing. This evil I obviated by cutting off in the fall (spring grafting to stocks unremoved is not apt to succeed,) the most of the rotting kinds, and grafting into their stocks those not liable to this misiortune, such as my Halifax, Norton’s V. Seedling, Vine Arbour, &c. And I add here, that a grape crop stands a drouth, in this region, better than most other ag- ricultural products. Last season a pretty se- vere drouth, in a critical time for grapes, or just before most kinds ripen, caused a few only of some varieties to drop prematurely, while other kinds were not affected. True, last season I was ctrt short of as lull a crop of wine as I ex- pected by about ten barrels; or I made but thir- ty instead of'forty. But this was rnostlji owing to a severe storm, of some days continuance, here called a gust, which blew down grapes enough lor several barrels ol wine. The fallen fruit was, for the most part, eaten by swine, al- ways kept in my vineyards for such purposes, and that of helping to keep the ground scarified beneath the canopies. I here take occasion to remark, that to those having the foresight and industry to take pains for it, a vineyard is a sure source of most plea- sant and healthful fruit, for a number of months in the year, and that, too, when other sources sometimes entirely fail. Nothing more healthy do we find than well selected ripe grapes. In view of the general good health of rny family and others in the abundant use of grape fruit, and that too in part ol a sickly lime of year in this region, I wonder not at the account of un- healthy persons, in parts of Europe, being sent for their recovery to the vineyards in Switzer- land to subsist entirely for the season on a grape diet. And when we consider the very great benefits of pure wine to the human family and its happy tendency, when temperately used, to counteract the direful effects of unhealthy food, luxuries, intemperance, and disease, I wonder not that wine is called by most eminent physi- cians the greatest of medicines, and that the un- erring voice of inspiration puts it along side of bread iiself, the staff of lile. And seeing the great excellency and zest of good wine, and the unhappy proneness of human beings to pervert and abuse all blessings of Providence, (the greate&i often most liable thereto,) 1 wonder not at the emphatic warnings ofthe greatest moral- ists, and of the same unerring voice of inspira- tion by way of caveat ; and putting the abuse thereof for the article used, calling wine a “ mocker,” as well as representing strong drink “raging.” This is analogous to the same vol- ume of inspiration, (not like the impostor Ma- homet’s false revelation denouncing a blessing because of its liability to abuse,) representing mnivcy or property, a blessing in itself consider ed, but the Icve or idolatry of money as the root of all, or (apart from the figurative language) oi mos\. kinds of evil. And that scriptme wine w'as really so, or fermented, and not mere grape juice, as some vainly contend for, is quite evi- dent from its declared abuse and the very warn- ings of the bible against drunkenness thereby. But scripture wine was indigenousio the coun- try where made, and iherefore not liable to the adulterations and effects of foreign im- portalinns. And may I be suffered here to remark, in con- clusion, why not A mericans(in a country where native vines grow more luxuriantly than else- where,) make their own wines, and saveannual, millions of foreign dependence for the article, that properly made and used, like in eastern wine making countries, known to be the most temperate in the world, is more unequivocally good, pleasant, healthful and medicinal than any of foreign importation? in expressing these moderate and scriptural views on the subject just touched upon, I am perfectly aware I am liable to offend uUraislsp or certain classes ol people in our day of ex- travagant excitements, who run from one ex- treme to another, seeming to abhor nothing worse than the golden medium. We have now rife in our country the aboli tion humbug, tending to sacrifice the liberty and happiness of all onr v.'hi1e population for the fancied good of the blacks. And the humbug of abolishing capital punishments, tending to sac- rifice the lives of virtuous citizens to cheat the gallows of its dues as to murderers and cut- throats. And not the least erf the nltraisms of the day is, the temperance one of inlempero.tcly denouncing all liquors, wnhouT. exception, and their use. And if all the aforenamed tirades of far worse than refined nonsense, were hurled against human inventions only, I woold not liere protest. But I am bold to aver that they are not only against the universally benign ex- perience of mankind in all ages, (and so the voice of Providence,) but most clearly against the plainest authority of the word of God. Most respectfully yours, &c. Sidney Weller. Brinckleyville, Halifax co., N. C., May, 1845. Suformation Wanted. Mr. Editor : — The subject of this short com- munication, is simply to elicit through the columns of your interesting paper, information concerning the proper tillage of some gra ould that a wall were built up j about us, on the south and on the west, that the | living tide might be staid, and that our people might subside into civilization, and the love of home, the sentiment of patriotism, the amenities and tastes of a high state of cultivation, find a \ place in their hearts. The work before us, if | widely circulated, would be a powerful auxiliary in this great social reform. Nothing tends so ! much to fix men to the soil, to nourish a love of i country, to quench the all-consuming and all-de- ! stroying love of money, to cherish the amenities j and charities of life, and generally to dignify and | elevate man, as a taste lor ' horticultural pursuits 1 and rural scenery. j II. j From the South Carolinian. j Rural Economy. In ils relations with Chemistry, j Physics, and Meteoi olojiy, or Chemistry applied to I Agriculture. By J B Bousginganit, .Member of the ! Institute of France, Committee, W. S. Paollin, 3 Col. A McDonald, who had been selected to deliver an address before the Society upon ag- riculture, performed the duty in an able and in- teresting manner. The question selected at the last meeting, for discussion, viz : What benefit arises from agricultural societies 1 was discussed by H. Hemphill, Col. John G. Shorter and the Rev. Charles Evans. Col. McDonald offered the following resolu- tion : Resolved, That in the death of William Beauchamp. Esq., the Barbour County Agri- cultural Society, has lost one of its earliest, most active and useful members, and the community at large one of its most worthy citizens. On motion of Mr. Thos. Flournoy,, a Com- mittee of three were appointed by the Chair^ consisting of Messrs. Tho’s. Flournoy, Abney and J. G. Shorter, to make arrangements for a public dinner, to be given by the society on the fourth of July next, and to select a suitable in- dividual to deliver an address on that day. On motion of Benj. Gardner, Esq., the pro- ceedings, with the address of Col. McDonald, were ordered to be published in the Southern Shield. Reports of Committees appointed to ascertain and report the increase, diminution, &c., of the various crops of the farmers of Barbour county, report that they have examined twenty-two farms, which have in cultivation 2460 acres of cotton, 2976 acres of corn, 384 acres of potatoes, 270 acres of small grain, 53 acres of rice; and they find upon the farms above alluded to, an in- crease of the provision crop of 962 acres, about that of last year, and that there is a reduction of 400 acres in the cotton crop ; they report that more attention is paid to the raising of stock, &c. On motion, the Society adjourned to 4th July next. H. Hemphill, Sec’y. Agricultural Meeting iu Warren County. At a meeting ol the citizens of Warren coun- ty, held at Warrenton on the 3d June, pursuant to a previous adjournment, John Harris, Esq., w’as called to thechair, and Joseph W. Thomas, Esq., requested to act as Secretary. On motion, the proceedings of a previous meeting were read, when the report of the committee appointed ataprevious meeting to draft a constitution was called for and submitted through their chair- man, G. V. Neal, Esq. On motion of G. V. Neal, Esq, Resolved, That the constitution, as re- ported by the Commitle, be taken up for adop^ tion by sections. Which was unanimously consented to and adopted. On motion, the Society went into an election of officers for the ensuing year, when it appear- ed that the lollowing gentlemen were elected, viz:— John Harris, President; G. W. Flarde- way, Samuel Hall, sen.. Sterling Evans, Vice- Presidents ; John H. Roberts, jr.. Secretary and Treasurer. On motion of S. W. Smith, Esq., Resolved, That the Chair appoint a commit* THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. !U tee ot'three to draft by-laws, (for the further government of the Society,) to be reported at next meeting, A door for members being opened, some- thing like 50 immediately signed the constitu- tion. Adjourned to meet first Tuesday in J uly next. John Harris, President. Joseph W. Thomas, Secretary, pro lem. Cotton Seed Oil. From Ellsworth’s Report for 1844. ^The folio wing account ol cotton-seed oil, &c., from J. Hamilton Cooper, esq., of Georgia, w’ill be read with interest, as it shows the use which may yet be made of an article produced . in large quantities, and before comparatively useless. A gentleman at the INorth is already making inquiries on this subject, which may lead to his embarking in this enterprise. It is Bot improbable, therefore, that cotton-planters may rejoice to find an article of so little value hitherto may be converted into an important article of domestic and foreign use. It was re- ceived too late lor reference in the report.] The seed of the Sea-island or long-staple cot- ton weighs about 40 lbs. to the bushel. As it is less coated with fibre, the yield of oil to the bushel will be considerably greater than that ol the upland; but I am unable to say what it is. As the two kinds are only varieties of the same plant, it is presumed that there is no difference in the oil from the two. Practically considered, the Sea-island cotton seed may be put out of the quesiion, from its limited production, and the value set on it by planters as a manure. From the experiments made on a large scale at Natchez, the oil from upland cotton seed was found, when well refined, to burn as well as spermaceti ; it made also an excellent paint oil. There was, however, much difficulty in refining it, and so much waste in accomplishing it as to render the manufacture unprofitable. The pro- cess employed were such as were then used in the Netherlands, France, and in America; but none of them was satisfactorj'. There is every reason to expect that the great improvements and discoveries now making in organic chemis- try will soon supply a satisfactory process of refinement. As there are 30 bushels of seed to every bale of cotton, each bale will yield at least 15 gallons of crude oil, and 360 lbs. of oil cake. If the oil can be made to be worth 50 cents per gallon, and the cake be sold only for 1 cent, an increase ofSlO at least per bale will be given, which in 2,000,000 of bales will be §20,000,000. Through the greater part of the western coun- try, the seed is absolutely thrown away, as the lands are too rich to be manured. The oil-cake from cotton seed has been extensively used by me as feed for horses, cattle, and sheep, and was found to be excellent. It may be used with equal advantage with rape-cake for food or ma- nure. Upland or Sea-Island cotton seed may be ob- tained from any of the factors in Charleston or Savannah. No difficulty exists in hulling, tempering or expressing the oil. The huller ol Follet (|- SmiLh of Petersburg, Virginia, accomplishes the first very effectually, at the rate of a bushel of kernels in four or five minutes ; and the ma- chinery employed in French Flanders for rape- seed, &c., answers perfectly for cotton seed. The present low prices of cotton will present a sufficient inducement to planters to save and sell the seed at reasonable prices ; audit is be- lieved that, if a cheap and effective mode of re- fining the oil can be discovered, this branch ol manufacture will become one of very high value to the country. J. Hamilton Cooper, near Darien, Ga. Memoranda of experiments made in January, 13-36, at Natchez, to ascertain the relative quantities of crude oil, cake, Sfc., from the seed of the short staple or upland cotton. r r weight) of seed of good quality, well aried tn the sun, opened by hand, and the kernels carefully separated from the hulls and fibre, gave of Kernels 115^ grains, being 57:| per cent. Hulls and fibre. .. .. 844 “ “ “ 200 too B. — The same seed, after being well sun-dried, were heated on ashovel over the fire, until they became crisp. They lost 2^ per cent, in weight. C. — One bushel (even measure) of seed, heated during eight minutes in a drying kiln, was hulled by Follet’s huller, and gave Kernels. . . 144 lbs., or 54| per cent. Hulls and fibre 121 “ 45| 26| lbs. weight of 1 bushel of seed, even or struck measure. ’ D. — One bushel (heaped measure) kiln dried gave Kernels 161 lbs., or 54.17 percent. Hulls and fibre 13f “ 45 83 “ 30 lbs. weight of 1 bushel of seed heaped measure, E. — Ten bushels of kiln dried seed slightly heaped weighed .301 lbs. When hulled, they yielded 94 bushels of hulls, &c,, weighing 117 lbs. Atid 5 bushels of kernels, weighing 184 lbs. Which 5 bushels of kernels when kneaded in- to a paste under the stones, with 2 quarts of water, gave 3 bushels 18 quarts of tempered meal, which weighed.. ......198 lbs. or 584 P®’’ bushel. F. — The average weight of a bushel of temper- ed meal is 61 lbs. Deduct for water 3 lbs. Leaves the weight of (he kernel 58 lbs. G. — One gallon of crude oil from the press weighed 7 lbs. 6 oz. H. — One bushel of well-tempered meal weighing 61 lbs. was pressed, and the cake retempered and repress- ed ; it gave 1st pressing 64 quarts of crude oil. 2d pressing 2| “ “ 9 1-10 Weight of the bushel of meal 61 lbs. Weight of 9 1-10 quarts, at 7 lbs. 6 oz. per gal- lon, (G) 16Ht>s- Leaves weight of the cake 44| Results . One bushel of seed weighing 30 lbs gives 16 lbs. of kernel, which, when tempered and twice pressed, yields from 24 quarts to 2 7-10 quarts of crude oil, and I24 lbs. of cake. How to Raise Turkeys* Th; attention ofi onr readers has been repeat- edly called to the subject of raising pouliry — in the vicinity of our large cities, perhaps no stock is so profitable. Some good practical hints may be taken from the lollowing, which the editor of the New Jersey Journal gives as the result ol considerable experience of his own. The young turkey is proverbially a tender chick, and it is a nice matter to know how to manage him pro- perly. We believe it is common among farmers to say that a turkey’s head costs twice as much as its body is worth when fattened. This we do not believe to be true, if he is properly managed; but OH the contrary, we believe that nothing can be raised and turned to so great a profit. But turkeys must have care, especially when young; but this care will not entrench on the business of the farmer, as it may be done by females or the younger branches of the iamily — and besides, the little damage they may do to grass or other things, must not be magnified tenfo.d, as is usu- ally the case. But by proper attention they will do no damage at all. Before giving our rules lo be observed in raising turkeys, let us draw a comparison. There'^ are few farmers but can raise 100 tur- keys— these 100 turkeys will weigh, when fat- tened, in December, upon an average, seven and a half pounds each, full dressed. We say full dressed, for it is the practice in some places to divest the turkey of nothing but its head and feathers, and then take it to market. A practice as uncivilized as it is disgusting. These hun- dred turkeys then will weigh 750 lbs., which in market are equal to 1.500 lbs. of pork. But if the male turkeys are kept until February or March, they will not only increase in weight, twice the amount of their feed, but the price in market will be much higher. We will now give the rules to be observed in raising and fattening them, founded wholly on our experience. Turkeys intended for breeders, must be kept well during fhe wiuier. If put in good condition, however, in December, it takes but little feed to keep them so. Their nests for laying must be made with hay or oat straw, un- der cover, and be well protected from the weath- er, and from vermin. When incubation com- mences, the turkey must not be disturbed, and if she does hot come from her nest for food and walcr, she must have both placed by her on her nest. When the young turkeys are hatched, they may be allowed to remain one day on the nest, or if removed, let them be sheltered in a warm place, and plenty of straw for them to set upon, for they are now extremely liable to take cold. The second day feed them with curds, or warm clabbered milk mixed with a little Indian or barley meal. They must be kept up and fed in this way for two or three days, and longer if the weather should be cold or rainy, but as soon as a warm and pleasant day comes, let them out at nine or ten o’clock, and shut them up at four; and this practice of letting them out and shutting up must be followed for five or six weeks, and on no account let them get wet. When a young turkey begins to droop, there is but little hope for it. There is no danger of keeping them too warm. When they are five or six weeks old, put a little grease on their heads to preserve them from lice. At the age of six or eight weeks the turkey is more hardy, but still should not be exposed to rains or the damp nights, for a few weeks longer. If the farmer has a plot of grass let him enclose a yard with a high fence, and crop the wings of the old tur'aeys, and continue to feed them with clabbered milk, and whatever else he pleases that comes from the kitchen, such as broken bread, potatoes, and the like. If he has a clover field, as soon as it is mown, let them run on it, and they will live on young clover. And as soon as the crops are uffi the ground, say in Au- gust or September, let tliem range on the farm ; but see to it, -that they come to their roosting place at night, and have water. In December the turkeys will be large enough to fatten, and for this purpose select as many as you please, and shut them up — next take to the mill, a few bushels of ears of Indian corn, and have it ground — then boil potatoes, and mix the meal with the scalding water and potatoes in a tub, say in the proportion of one bushel ol pota- toes to one peck or more of meal, and stir them well together, then let it cool, but give it to the turkeys as warm as they will bear it, and as much as they will eat, and in two weeks and a half, they will be fat enough for marker, and for an alderman’s dinner. V/edonot take this from books, but from several years’ experience. We kept an exact account of the expense of raising and fattening a ffock, and at the rate of ten cents a pound full dressed, we received §72, while our cost exclu- sive of sour milk, was less than §10. If any farmer does not wish to be at the special trouble of raising them, but should have a small flock to fatten, that have lived “in spite of wind and weather,"* let him adopt our rules of fattening, and be will “save much corn.” On a large farm, and with a large yard and a butter dairy with proper attention we believe it may be mad, a -leading business to great profit.— Far. Cab. Gates for Bars. — There are few farmers so destitute of mechanical skill, as to be unable to make a substantial gate. This is a convenient, secure, time-saving, labor-saving, and w'e may add, iemper-BSiYmg fixture. We know’ of no merit which bars have to recommend them in preference to the gate, and the substitution of the latter for the former, is alwmys considered an improvement on a farm, as a good firm wall is in place of a flimsy fence. Do not, if possible, depend on your neighbors for the tools required for such work as the ma- king of a gate. Purchase them— and then you will not be liable to be interrupted in your work by a summons to return them at the moment, as you are in case of borrow’e.l tools, and have to wait till the owner has done wdth them, before you can go on again — and then, perhaps, re- sume your w’ork only to be again interrupted 112 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. by aiiuiher call tor the tools. This is vexatious both to borrower and lender, and not untrequent- ly engenders ill feeling on the part ot one or both.' Be as independent of borrowing as you can — but we do not add, refuse to lend. Progress of English. Agriculture. Farmers are finding out that it is necessary for them, with a view to their own interests, to talre a very different course trom- that w’hich was followed by their grandfathers. In these days, no man is allowed to stand still. Improvement must go on. And I see tnroughout the country, in every part of it, gratifying proofs that im- provement is going on, as actively in the agri- cultural as in the manufacturing districts and operations of the country. Even within the last four or five years, I see strides which, small as they may be compared with what might be done, aVe gigantic when co.npared with what was done before. I think it is not more than four or five years agj that, at a meeting of the Roy^l Agri- cultural Society of England, I first noticed, as a novelty ot a singular character, a new manure, known as guano, and recommended to the agn- eulturists of England. Iff am not misintorm- ed, from the port of Ldverpool alone there have gone out, within this single year, no less than 150 vessels, chartered expressly for the purpose of importing this then unknown manure for the improvement of the agriculture of the country. Everywhere I see old and useless fences disap- pearinof, fields enlarging, improved modes of cultivation adopted ; and I see going on with immense rapidity that which, 1 must again and again impress upon you who are connected with the land, is the basis of all improvement — deep thorough drainage of the land; and not here alone, but throughout all England, I see most remarkably, as indeed any one may do, even thoug i whirled through the country at the railway speed with which we are now carried, what an extent of improvement has been effect- ed in this respect. Eveiy one is struck with the appearance of preparation for the future ex- ertions, which are, at the same time, the token of well-deserved success. — Lord Stanley at the Liverpool Agricultural Association. Thc Rat-Tail Geranium. — Speaking of plants, let us ask our friend if he ever heard of the celebrated “ Rat-tail Geranium,” which was first brought to public notice by a famous beau and courtier at Washington, some years since 1 It seems that he had a passion for Geraniums; and on one occasion he was m'formed by a friend (“ beshrew him for a mad wag !”) that if he de- sired to enrich his collection of plants with one not to f e had elsewhere, and which had just been imported from the Niger, to lose not a moment in securing it. This was sufficient. Away he posted, and for a pretty penny became proprie- tor of the only R.at-iail Geranium in America. Placing it under his arm, he repaired to the residence of the lady of one ot the high dignita- ries of the Federal city. Placing it carefully upon the v,’indow-.<^ill of the drawing-room, and as carefully adjusting the stem, which, he said, in consequence of a long voyage had become a little dry and lost its foliage; and giving espe- cial directions to have it exposed to the sun, kept well watered, and taken in at night he made his congee and departed. On the thi,rd day i began to send forth its Iragrance ; each succeed- ing day it increased, but showed no signs of budding. On the si.xih day, curiosity was on tip toe to ascertain, by actual examination, the structure of a plant so redolent of a very re- markable perfume, and yet so withered and stiff, as was the stem of the “ Rat-Tail Niger Gera- nium.” On removing the earth, and following the stem downward, lo ! there lay the remains of an enormous rat. with his tail tied neatly up to a stick ! — Western Parmer a,nd Gardener. |;;5’CLnitp a stir has been created at Lowell by the introduction of a new cotton spinning frame which has just been put into operrtion ihere. It is sahi to lequire hut one h.df Ike pow- er, and will make more yam and of more even IwisL at about Ivw-tlurds Ike expense oi other kinds of frames in use. COUTE/.TS OF THIS HUMBER. Agricultural Society of Pendleton — Report of the Committee on Farms p=>gB 9T Agricultural Society liurke county 110 “ Barbour county 110 *• Meeting in Warren county 110 Address of Col. McDonald 99, 105 Asparagus, cultivation of-^Manuer of planting, manuring, &c — St. Sebastian lOj An English Farmer’s Wife 106 A Grape Crop safer than most others against late frosts and diouths 108 Bermuda Grass b'f “ *• to destroy, etc 108 “ “ queries relative to. 108 Batter Cakes, to make..... 109 Colton Seed Oil — 1 1 1 Gates for Bars lit Horticultural Outline..... 102 Turkeys, how to raise 1.11 Information wanted.. 103 Kenilworth Pigs 104 Life in the Country 106 Manures, artificial 103 “ Do they sink or evaporalef 107 Notices of New Books 109 Oatmeal as Human Food 104 Products of Southern Industry 104 Palma Christ! l08 Progress of English .Agriculture 112 Rat Tail Geranium, the 112 Southern Folly 104 Sheep 105 Time is Money 103 A PKEMiUM. The Publishers of the “SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR,” propose to give to every matt who shall procure TES subscribers, and enclose a ten dollar bill, the two back V olumes of the work, handsomely bound* AN» FifidLa> SEEUS. A GENERAL assortment of fresh and genu- ine Garden and Field Seed, among which are the f o 1 1 o w i n g : Red and white clover, Blue and green grass. Rye and orchard do Timothy and herds do Millet and Lucerne do Seed corn of every valua- Buckwheat h SVSTE.M will be rigidly adhered to, and in no case will the paper be sent unless the money accompanies the order. ADvERXrsEMENTs pertaining to Agricultu - e, will be In- serted for ONE DOLLAR for every square of ten lines or less, for the first insertion, and seventv-five cents per square for each continuance. Ei3“P.isr Masters are authorized to receive and for- ward money free of postage. CC?“All communications must be post paid, and ddresseU to JAMES CAMAK, Athens, Georgia. VoL. III. AUGUSTA, GA., AUGUST, 1845. No. 8. ff.EC'rURU OF FSSOF. J^OMNSTO.X. We e.x’tract, .say.s the Tennessee Agriculturist, the tblluwing Lecture delivered by Prolessor Johnston, hetore the Parish Schoohnasters of Scotian I, from the Lfinbur^h (Scotland) Wit- ness, ot Septe nber -Joth. detailing many valua- ble improvemenis that ouaht to be of the first moment in tae old country. We hope to see the day speedily arrive when Agriculture in Schools, will be taught in every quarter of our land, and the generations that are to follow, beriefi'ted and improved. AGRICULTUR.AL INSTRUCTIO.N IN SCHOOLS. At the request ot a number ot parochial schoolmasters. Professor Johnston gave a lec- ture on Priday afternoon, in the High School Hall, on the introduction of agricuUural instruc- tion into elementary schools in ."icotlanil. There was a very full atten lance of schoolmasters and others interested in the matter, Mr. Gunn of the High School having been called to the chair, Professor Johnston rose and said, that he should not have presumed to have appeared be- lore them (the parish schoolmasters,) in refer- ence to so important a subject as agricultural education had he not been requested to do so by various partie.s---by members ot their own holy and others. He had communications from va- rious qtiarters on the subject, and had also had transmitted to him a memorial addressed to the Lord Justice-General from a parish school- master, e.icpressing a desire on the partofhim- seli and others of the body, to introduce, among the various branches ot education taught in 'heir schools, some instruction in the principles and ^ ''vriculture. Besides, he had been eneouragcu.. . ■ bring the matter before them, because ol the result of a meeting lately held in Glasgow for the purpose of considering whether it was possible to introduce into ele- mentary schools instruction in the elements of chemistry as applied to agriculture, and that without interfering with the ordinary course of study in these schools. He had previously had some doubts on the subject; but after hearing some boys, from the Iri^h National Schools, who were brought to Glasgow lor the purpose, examined, all his scruples had been removed; and being himself satisfied, he now appeared before the present meeting lor the purpose ol stating his views of the matter. He was en- couraged also, from what he had since observed in various parts of the country; for he lound that there was a general desire on the oart of the agricultuiists that their chil Iren should receive that sort ol education of v^ hieh they themselves were deficient, in order that they might improve their con lition in life by cuUivating the land to more advantage than had hitherto been done. In what lie shriuld take the liberiy of saying, he begged to be distinctly understood, that he stroke only his own views— he committed no other parties to anv points in which they might think proper to differ from him. He did not appear before them as representing the Agricultural Chemistry Association, hut sim,oly as an indi- vidual, and in co.mpliance with their own re- quest— a request he had been most willing to meet. It was important that such instruction as he alluded to should be given, because the population of the country was ahead ol the pre- sent productive powers ofthe land — because the land did not now produce enough of corn for the people — and because the land ofthe count: y could easily be made to maintain a much larger population, and, in doing so, give more profit to the farmer, Scotland was as much c.dvanced in the science of agriculture as any other coun- try; but in every other country it had been de- irionsirated that the best cultivated districts^ might be improved by the application of chem- istry to the Ian 1. The general persuasion of its impoj'tan;;-e was such, that Agriculturaf Chem- istry Colleges had been established at Peters- burj, at .Moscow, in the We.sl Indies, in Eng- land, and also in Ireland. In fact, agricultural schools were springing up every where, in a way adapted to the circumstances of each country. He was clearly of opinion, that it was of espe- cial importance to introduce agricultural in- struction into our parish and other elemenlarv .schools. Some farmers who were possessed of wealth were enabled to send their sons to other than the parish schools to receive their educa- tion; but it was otherwise with the small farm- ers in many di-tricts, especially in Ayrshire, whose sons ha. I no other education than they received at these schools. He need not tell them how diificult it was lor the farmer to ac quire new and additional information when en- gaged in the cultiv-athm of his larm; therelore it was ot great importance, il the land was to be made more product! ve, that that kind of know- ledge which would conduce to acco nplish soiie- sirable an end, should be acquired while at school, by those who were to. succeed Iheix (athe.'-s in the cultivation of the soil. Besides the farmers’ sons, there were the son.sof tdie la- boring class, from whence the grieves all rose; and when they considered bow much the pros- perity ol the country depended on the knowledge ol the laborers, the meeting would see how im- portant it was that the sons of the laboring class- es should acquire that knowledge- betore they lelt school, thereby giving them the means ol rai.sing and bettering their future condition in life. His audience were probably aware, that an idea prevailed, that by giving to the laboring class a portion of land to cultivate, their moral condition as well as their animal comfort.s would be greatly increa.sed; tnerelore they would see how important it was that those classes should be properly educated, not only to promote the improvement of, the country gene- rally, but that they might be prepared for the cultivation ol allotments, should they obtain ►hem, and be fitted to become more usetui mem- bers of §ociety than they iiad hitherto been. He came now to ihe consideration ol what should be taught. Agriculture divided itself strictly into three branches, — 1st, the culture and im- provement of the soil; 2.1, the rearing and iin- provement ot stock; and 3d, the use and iin- provenvent of agricultural implements. The force of agricultural societies had been mainly directed to ibe .■second branch, con>equenily the impi'ovement of stock h.ad gone ahead ol the improvement ot the land; and this in face of the fact, ihatdhe land vvas the more impoitani of the two, as being the ieeder not only of the stock, but of the people also. Indeed, he held in his hand a letter from a most intelligent far- mer, who stated that the stock was too good for the land. And as the cultivation of the land was ofthe greatest importance, the other two branches being subsidiary to it, the force ot the schoolmasters would be most usefully, as it would be most easily, directed to teaching in r-^- gard to the culture and improvement of the soil. Now, their teaching might be of two kinds — theoretical, or practical, or both. He would come to the consideration of both. He thought that in elementary schools they might easily in- culcate and impress on the minds ol the youth under their care, the principles upon which the culture of the soil ought to be based. Oi' the sciences on which these principles depend, chemistry was the most important; and it was necessary, therefore, before they could teach the young mind, that they should give a knowledge 'of so much elementary chemistry as to make him understand the words used hy the chemists. It was not enough that he should know such names as soda and potasjj, — he should also know the difference betweep-lhem. The}' must not teach ant'SV-n'e science -for its own sake, but as an important branch of’fiational induslry. — They must not be led away by their attachment to one branch, such as chemistry, so as to give t()0 much of it, but only so much as was neces- sary to explain the principles upon which that branch of industry was based, in order that the pupil might understand and comprehend the new 'words which they were obliged to make use of. They were to make their pupils, not chemists, not botanists, but scientific farmers ; for in that the public were interested and would support them. [Here Professor Johnston refer- led his audience to a catechism which he had drawn up at the request of the schoolmasters of A^'i'shire.] As lo the experiments they would find il necessary to make, they were few and very simple. F^or instance, here wasWie carbo- nate ot soda in one glass vessel, and the carbo- nate of lime in another. Take and pour spirits ol salt on them, and they would ob-serve carbo- nic acid gas arise, which extinguished a lighted taper when put into the vessel. They would also perceive that the smoke of the extinguish- ed taper floated on the top ot the gas, thereby showing how' much was in the vessel. This gas, they w ere aware, perfor.'ned most important functions; but it was not necessary to give the boy more information than was requisite to fi.x in his mind the name and property ofthe gas. Then as to phosphoric acid — here was a piece ot phosphorus, which they would observe, when he burned it under a glass, sent up white flames ; all they had to do, therefore, was to tell the boy that those white flames were phosphoric acid ; that the same was in his bones and in the food which he eats — and he would then easilv re- member w'bat phosphoric acid was. It the}' did not happen to have phosphorus by them, they might use lucifer matches, which are easi- ly procured, w'hieh on friction being applied to them send up the same sort ol white vapor as did the phospiiorus which they had just seen burned. They could also connect carbonic acid with the daily life ol the pupil, by telling him that what w’as produced when charcoal was burned wms w'hat he breathed. He would then go and tell his father that this same substance which he throw’s off from his lungs was what the leaves of plants sucked in ; that plants took it from starch, and that animals eat the starch to form it. After making an experiment to show that liquid manure was an important substance if applied to plants, as it greatly promoted their growth, the Professor then went on to say that the more simple the teacher could make his ex- periments the better—lhey should leach no more 114 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. philosophy than was absolutely necessary ; but at the same time it must be strictly correct. He would advise them to confine themselves to facts — not to announce the principles. Be would also press upon them, in endeavoring to fix facts on the boy’s mind, to call to aid all his senses— his sense of sight, fcr instance. Then as to smell, ammonia might be used; and for taste, common salt, alum, and soda, which were perfectly harmless. As to touch, sal-ammoniac would be of use. They would observe that the little piece which he had just broken off, bent; and he knew of no other substance which a boy was likely to meet with that would bend in like manner. The Professor then directed attention to a set of tables which he recommended for the use of elementary schools — one of them, to which he specially called the observation of the meeting, was an exposition of the ash of the different kinds of grain, namely, potash, soda, lime, magnesia, oxide of iron, oxide of mag- nese, phosphoric acid, staliphuric acid, silicia, and chlorine. He remarked that such a table as this would tend much to fix the words used by chemists in the memory ol the pupils ; and also to impress principles upon their mind : as, for instance, that in the ash of all the different kinds of grain, there was more phosphoric acid than any other substance. As to the means of information for themselves, it was a great con- venience to him, in bringing the subject for- ward, both here and elsewhere, that he could of- fer them his own books; a lew months ago, and he could not have told them where the know- ledge they required could be obtained. As to the expense ol making the experiments, it would not amount to more than five shillings a-year, as the materials could be procured at a very cheap rale. With regard to the apparatus, all that was necessary could be got for thirty shil- lings from Messrs. Griffin of Glasgow, who had, at his request, prepared a set of apparatus. Then, as to the time it would occupy to teach the science, why, that was a point on which some misapprehension might readily arise. The boys who attended school generally did so for three or four years. Now all that he asked was one hour a week — that was enough to learn all that was necessary to be taught on the subject ; but if they could give him two hours he should like it better, as then there would be time to spare. The children also would learn much without teaching, from seeing the tables he had alluded to, and also from, experiments. He did not wish that this one hour a-week should interfere with the usual course of instruc- tion, although it might not necessarily be new or additional to what was now given to leach- ing. In fact, he did not wish any of them to teach in one particular way or another; he left that to themselves, merely taking the liberty of giving his opinion in the matter. As to the practical teaching of the science, that could be done in various ways. For instance, they might on a Saturday afternoon go with the boys to a farm in the neighborhood, and describe the ope- rations of the farmer. After telling them all about the rotation of crops— that a green crop followed after grain, and so forth, the teacher might then say, let us go now and see how the farmer works. This, he thought, might be of great benefit to the scholars. As to school farms, the system of attaching pieces of land to schools had been adopted in reference to the Irish National Schools; it was also done in the schools which had been esiablished in England ; and it had been proposed to adopt a similar prac- tice here. But this he did not hold to be indis- pensable. If he were asked the question, should the schoolmasters have a five acre glebe, he would say that in no case of a parish school did he eontemplate that the master should work so many hours a day in his farm, and superin- tend the labor of the boys. But he had no crot- chet in his head on this point — his mind was not made up on the subject; and although he might afterwards recommend it, at present his opinion, if asked, was. “ as a general rule no, at least at first.” But if they differed from him, he left them to do as they liked— niakingonly these two conditions, viz., that they did not lower them- selves in station — that they neglected none of the other important branches of education. There were two objections to the proposal. In tlie first place, there was a jealousy on the part of the schoolmasters themselves that it would lower them in public estimation to cultivate land, at the same time that they were engage.! in the cultivation of the youthful mind. Then there was a jealousy on the part ol those interested in the proper teaching of the scholars, lest the master, finding it profitable to cultivate, should take more than he could properly cultivate, and thus neglect other and more important matiers. But no general rule could be laid down in this respect, as all the schools were differently cir- cumstanced. The same mode would not suit tor ail, as the same necessity did not exist in every case for having pieces of land attached to the parish schools. As an inducement to them to pursue a course of agricultural education, he might remark, that they would have the satis- faction of contributing towards a great nation- al good, and they would also maintain the parish schools in that position and pre eminence which it was desirable they should ever be in, and thus neutralise rivalry. The Government of the country took an interest in the subject— they had shown that they did so, by decl? ring them- selves in favor of a course of agricultural elu- cation, and establishing schools for that purpose. Now, the parochial schoolmasters, many of whom he now addressed, were at present, through their friends, making an application to parliament for an increase to their allowance, which was allowed on all hands to be too small ; and he held in his hand a leller from a gentle- man who took a great interest in the rnaiier, which Slated that it the schoolmasters showed an interest to promote the fundamental wellare of the country, as, for instance, the improvement of agriculture, it would have great weight with Parliament. Another point was, that as indi- viduals they would have an opportunity ofbring- ing themselves into notice, and new means of rising presented to them. It would increase thei." consideration in the locality where they resided. For instance, a schoolmaster might go to a farmer and talk to him about Latin, which he would not care about, as he did not under- stand it; but it he could hold the plow, then he would think him a better man. As an illustra- tion of this feeling, he might mention what the schoolmaster ol Eyemouth had said, “if 1 could leach fishing, the parents would take more interest in the school.” (Laughter.) They would, he repeated, render themselves of more importance in the district where they resided, and be thought more of by the farmers and oth- ers with whom they came in contact. They might find indifference, and might meet with op- position ; but their hands .might he strengthened by the establishment of chibs; and he would therefore recommend them to meet occasionally and consult with, one another regarding the mode of teaching; and by doing so, he had no doubt they would overcome many local difficulties. The way to gain over the old farmers to their views— to remove their pfejudices— was not hy opposing and railing at them, iiiit bv becoming in appearance their pupils; not by propounding hastily formed and positive oninione, but bv calmly and dispassionately conversing with them on the subject. The subject, he nii?ht a.ld, was interesting to all parties in Parliament. The Field Gardens Bill, was an evidence ol that on the part of one section of the House, and was not unfavored by Government. An- other section proposed to join with it an Agri- cultural School Bill. In conclusion, the Pro- fessor said that if twenty of the gentlemen pre- sent would like to hear an address on the .science itself, in order that they might have an opportu- nity ol understanding some ol its beauties, he vyould be happy to meet them next forenoon in the same place. The offer of Prof. .Tohnston was at once ac- cepted, and a Committee named to make the ne- cessary arrangements. The meeting then sepiraied. GOV. MAinaiO.VB’S KEPOit'V. From the South Western Farmer. We give at the conclusion of this notice, the Report of a Committee of which our friend, J. H. Hammond, was chairman. We congratu- late him on the knowledge of farming that he displays. We see how readily the educated and intelligent can learn the business of farm- ing. But a short lime since, our old school-male was up to his eyes in politics — he now rttires to the field — Ihei e to live a quiet, peaceable lile. We rejoice at it, and can but repeat the lemaik w’e made to him, before he was elected Govern- or— “ You are wrong — you have no business in that sphere — seek your ease and peace — it suiis you better and will give you saiislaciion.” His answer was then, as his works answer now : “I will do so as early as the force of circum- stances will permit” — or to this purport were both. We again congratulate him, and also our counirjq in the success of our friend — we also press on all agriculturists any an ides from the pen of Hammond; he will, we feel assured, give all matiers that he writes on, his minule ard particular attention. We have known him from both ol our boyhoods, and know' him to he talented and observing, and more than all, wfiien he does apply himself, it is an application de- serving and insuring success. As we are his senior in planting the cotton, especially in personal attention to it, we beg to give him a hint or two. We may err in our no- tions ; and v.'hy we say so, is, that we i iffer ma- terially from so large a number of faimeis. We think that very early planting is disadvan- tageous ; and to define early planting, we think the la.si week in .March is eailv enough at any time, even for this year, when, it w ill be borne in mind, the fruit trees were quite green at that time; to plant as early as the 15lh or 20th ol March is “ very early.” We generally judge it to be time to plant corn when the “ leaf of the oak is as large as the squirre.’s ear,” many of our planters have planted cotton as early. We think cotton planted from the Isi to the 10th of April is early enough for old land, and have known '»y several crops that the later planting, say lOih, was considerably better than the eaily — we know- this not only by our own weights and measures, but also by others. We would make an exception to early olant- ing. New ground and lich fresh lanflpfEl? such a tendene3' to make weed, that it is necessary to plant as early as a stand can be had — so all think; we would not object, but think that judi- cious culiure would make a different result. We would act precisely as with the tree that produced wood instead of fruit — amputate the roots. We tiiink that if the land has been bro- ken up very early, and left to be consolidated by rains, then plant about the 5th to the lOih of April, thinned out as early as it was up, culti- vate 1 deep and late, that the stalks would set the fruit and ripen in time. Do we not thus with Iruil trees, Irish potaioe aiulsweet poiatoe— the latter too, by either cuiting off tops, or feeding with calvjsl And why not a similar practice with the cotton plant ? The cotton plant is a very tender plant ii treat- ed as it 'vas some ten or filteen years since — some three to six bushel ol seed sowm per acre, and not thinned out until the third leaf had ap- peared— it has been raised in a hot bed, and bo wonder it is tender ; bif rf sown thinly, and then thinned out to single stalks, we think it a hardy plant. There is no use in trying the hardihood of the plant. It is unlike corn — it has a tap root, gro-ivsindry weaihe'', and unless the Ir nd has not been properly prepared, orremaikably dry, it will improve by hot or dry weather- but corn having superficial root.s, should be planted early as possible, that it may ripen before drought sets in. If cotton will make 1000 lbs, per acre w'hen planted late in May there can be no f- ars to plant 10th April. The farmer can place his laud in e.xcelient order — have hi.s ci-m cleaned h-ind-'orn^ly, and when cotton is up, lie can yush it to the utmost. We request our friend H, to THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 115 plant one acre ol cotton, even now, alter his see- ing this, on a piece ot well plowed land, in he same field that he has now even scraped over; just open out lurrows where the cotton now stands, which will destroy the cotton that has been scraped. Our impression is, that the diffe- rence will be vmry slight, and if adopted g*ene- rally W'ould give considerable time to manure, plow and improve, instead of giving cotton the additional working necessary. The land that we have known planted late, would not in ave- rage seasons make anythinglike one-third more, by early planting, and if the extra labor was ap- plied to improving it, we doubt, if it would yield as much. Understand, we do not advo- cate either late or early planting— that is, after the 25th of April or before 1st— and only wish to show there is not so vast a difference between planting Ist April and 1st May. What would be the gain to any farm by the extra month’s work 1 P. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE BARN- WELL AORICULTLTR.AL SOCIE I’Y ON THE CUL- TURE OF COTTON. The ground cannot be too well prepared for Cot- ton.—M it had rested one year it should be bro- ken flush, as early in the previous fall as possi- ble, and headed just before planting. If it has rested two years or been planted the preceding year, let it be listed as early as it can be done, and two lurrows thrown upon the list. Imme- diately upon planting let two more furrows be thrown up, and balk broken out completely. The common method of running three furrows, and planting on it, throws the winter’s portion of the crop-work upon the laborer, during crop time, and is inexcusable, unless heavy clearings are absolutely required. The reason for not listing after one year’s rest, is, that the vege- table matter will be too abundant and too coarse to form a substratum to receive the tap- root. Colk n should be planted early — It may increase the difficulty of getting a stand, ar.d give the plant, for a long time, a puny appearance, but every stalk of Cotton planted in March, or first week in April, that survives, may be readily distinguished, in any field that has been replriUt- ed later. It bears more, and earlier, and stands all the vicissitudes of June, July and August, better. There are several methods of planting. Your committee recommend planting in spots, regularly measured by the dibble. It is some- what tedious, though less so than is generally supposed, and certainly does not take as much time as both to drill and chop out ; nor is time so valuable at that period, as when the latter operation is required, while a belter and more regular stand may be secured. There is no land, or but little, in our district, in which cot- ton rows should be over three feet apart, or the cotton further than fourteen inches in the drill, one plant in a place. To make a large crop there must be an abundant supply of stalks. When the weather is too wet to plant, time may be otien saved by dropping the seed, but not covering until the ground is dryer. If, ho wever, it cannot be covered in three or four days, it is time lost, for it must be re-planted. Always cover lightly, under any circumstances. And always plant on something of a bed, in any land. It keeps cotton dryer, and affords more air when it is young. It enables you to gel at it in work- ing. By increasing the surface, it absorbs more moisture, if it is too dry ; and gives out more if it is too wet, and in both cases gives you the advantage of a vertical sun on the tap-root, which hastens the maturity of the bolls — a vast desideratum in our climate. On this account the bed can hardly be drawn too high at the last hoeing, in any season. In cuUivo.Ung Colton, wnh the plow or hoe, the chief object is to keep down the grass, which is its greatest antagonist, bringing all, or almost all other evils in its train. It is not so essential, in the opinion of your commit- tee, to keep the ground stirred, as is g-eneraliy supposed, and by no means requisite to stir it deep; at all events not to our light soil. If it be v/ell prepared, deep plowing is not only un- 1 necessary for any of our crop.s, but often highlv injurious to them, while it rapidly e.xhausts the land, by turning it up fresh, under a burning sun. Much unnecessary pains is usually taken, and time lost, to work the plant in a particular way, under the supposition that it is a peculiar- ly delicate one. If it survives iis infancy, few plants are hardier. It is often found to reach maturity in the alleys, where the mules walk with the plows following and the laborer tramps backwards and forwards. Sometimes it will bear fruit in turnrows used frequently lor wa- gons, while it really seems to derive benefit from being bitten down almost to the ground by the animals, it will bear almost any usage better than it will that mortal enemy — grass. The most critical operation in working cotton is thinning. It should be done with great care, and if early, with the hand. In a dry year, it cannot be done loo early after the plant is up. In a wet one, it may be profitably delayed, until it has begun to form or later even. On the ex- perience, observation and judgment of the plan- ter, in this matter, everything depends, as each year brings its own rules with it. Where cir- cumstances are favorable early thinning is ot course the best. Some planters always top their cotton. Others never do. Your committee are of spinion, that it seldom or never does harm to do so. But whether it is worth the trouble, is a doubtful question. Those who have no clear- ing, or other important employ for their hands, would lose nothing by devoting three or four days to this operation early in August. Those pressed for time might gain by omitting it. 'Coo much pains cannot be taken in preparing Cotton for market, for they are well remunerated by the additional price. The first thing to be attended to, is to have it gathered free of trash. With a little care wonders can be effected in this way ; and hands with a short training, will pick almost, if not quite, as much without trash as with it. It should never be gathered when wet. And here it may not be out of place to remark, that one af the very best sanitory rules of a plantation is never to send out your hands to pick until the dew has nearly or quite riisap'^ peared. It saves time in the long run, as well as health and life. Cotton should never be gin- ned, until the seed are so dry as to crack between the teeth. If damp, it is preferable to dry it in the shade, as the sun extracts the oil and injures the staple. It, by accident, however, it gets wet, there is no alternative but to put it on the scaf- fold. It IS of great importance to sort the cot- ton carefully, into several qualities, in ginning and packing, for by mixing all qualities togeth- er, the average ot tne price is certainly lowered. A few olJ hands or very young ones, breeding women, sticklers, and invalids, will earn excel- lent wages in a ginhouse at this occupation. Neat packing is of no sniali importance, in the sale of cotton, and no little taste may be display- ed in making the packages. The advantage of square bags is universally known and the com- mittee are astonished that any other should ever be made now. Every kind of manure is valuable for eolton. — Every kind of compost, green crops turned in, cotton seed and even naked leaves listed and left to rot, improves this crop. When planted on cotton seed, and sometimes on strong stable ma. nure, it is more difficult to retain a stand, owing probably to the ever stimulus of these strong manures. So, on leaves, unless well rotted, the eolton will long continue to die, in consequence of the leaves decaying away and exposing the root too much to sun and rain. These difficul- ties may be avoided, by a little pains, and by no means justify the opinion entertained by some, that cotton should never be planted on freshly manured land. The only question is the cost of the manure. A great deal may be made on every plantation, without much trou- ble or expense, by keeping thestables and stable yard, hog and cow pens, well supplied with leaves and straw. And also from pens of corn- cobs ; sweepings from negro and fowl house }'ards and rank weeds that spring up about them collected together and left to ret. When- ever the business is carried further, and a regu- lar force is detached to make manure at all sea- sons, and entirely left out Ironi the crop, it be- comes the owner to enter into a clo.se calcula- tion ot the cost and profiis. In many agricul- tural operations, such a course, the experience of all countries has proved to b^ profitable, but these operations partake rather more of the (ar- ming and gardening, than planting character, and whether the same method will do for the extensive planting of short staple cotton remains, in the opinion of your committee, yet to be test- ed. If anythinglike an average of past prices can be maintained, it is certain that more can be made by planting largely than by making manure as a crop. If, however, prices continue to fall, and the growing of cotton be confined to a few rich spots — those susceptible of high ma- nuring— then our whole system must be chang- ed, our crops must be curtailed, and staple-labor losing its past value, the comparative profit of a cotton and manure crop, will preponderate in favor of the latter. As a substitute for manur- ing on a large scale, resting and rotation of crops is resorted to. In our right level land, the prac- tice of resting cannot be too highly recommend- ed, and, by a judicious course, such as resting two and planting two, or at most three years, our lands may not only be kept up for ever, but absolutely improved. From rotation of crops but little is gained for cotton. After small grain, whether from the exhausting nature of that crop, on light lands, or because the stubble keeps the ground always rough and porous, cotton will not do well. After oorn it is difficult to tend, as from out usual manner of cultivatingcorn, grass is always left in full possession of the field. It does be.st after cotton,* or alter a year’s rest. Rest is the grand restorer, and the rotation chiefly required in the cultivation of cotton. J. H. Hammond, Chairman. ClJiiTIVATION OF CELERY, From Ellsworth’s Report for 1844 New York, December 12, 1844. Dear Sir: The cultivation and growth of celery, that most excellent and wholesome win- ter vegetable, requires the close attention of the gardener to bring it to perfection. A practical gaidener will soon learn the art; and lor the benefit of those who have yet la learn it, 1 beg to hand you the result of my own experience for the last 25 years. In this country, it is not necessary to sow the seed before the month of May, and then in the open ground, well manured with stable dung thoroughly cured, and not less than a year old. The color, whether white or red, is a matter of taste. I generally mix my seed, and thus have both species. The seed is slow of vegetation, but, if good, never fails to germinate. Whether the seed be sown broadcast or in drills, is a mat- ter of no consequence; as the seed being very small, the plants are sure to shoot up thick. So soon as the sprouts have attained the height of an inch, they should be pricked out in a bed of rich mould, at the distance of about three inches each way from each other. You cannot have good strong stocky plants without pursuing this method. If left standing in the seedling-bed, they will grow spindling, weak, and consump- tive. No more attention is required, excepting that of keeping the plants perfectly free from weeds, until August, w'hen you will find the plants strong, healthy and vigorous. Any time in this month, dig your trenches 18 inches deep and as many wide. For this pur- pose, I generally occupy the ground that has been used for early peas. The quality of the celery, and chiefly its growth, depend entirely upon the next step. The trenches should be hall filled with thorough- ly cured stable manure. I have found the ma- nure used for early hot-beds the best. It never fails of success. The increased fermentation of the manure, by the repeated waterings of the beds, the escape of the ammonia and noxious qualities of the manure, renders it sweet, and capable of imparting the mildeet and richest. 116 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. flavor to the plant. II Iresh manure from the yard, of whatever kind, is used, the^elery will invariably grow strong and rank, with as little delicacy ol flavor as there is in the manme. With a garden fork of four tines, strikethrough the manure in the trench into the earth beneath, and bring it up Iresh, carefully mixing it with the manure as you proceed Irom one end ol the trench to the other. Attention to this point is indispensable to the growth of good celery. The plants taken up should be trimmed about the crown, just at the top of the root; all the young suckers taken olf, leaving the plant trim and neat, with all its main stalks. With a dib- ble, which should be as large as the handle of a spade, as the roots will low be of considerable size, begin at one end ol the trench with your face towards the other, and set in a single row of plants in the middle of the trench, and not less than 6 inches asunder; water them well. No tetotaler loves water better than celery. It cannot have too much. The roots of this plant require more room than is generally allowed them, as any one may see when they are taken up for the table. Earthing up the plants should be delayed un- til they have attained a good size; and then it requires care, especially the first time. 1 al- ways get into the trench myself, and, holding the plant with all its stalks firmly in my left hand, with a short handled small hoe draw the earth up round the plant, without allowing it to come in betv/een the stalks. When this is done, and the plants thus protected, you may, with a spade, strike. off the edges ot the trench, and par- tially fill it. As the plant grows, (as it now will, if well watered in dry weather, with great vigor) continue to earth up, and by the 1st of November the plants will be two feet above the level of the earth, and with a main stalk the size of a man’s arm. Sometimes, particularly if the season is dry, celery is liable to be attacked by a fly. In that case, you will see the lops of the celery turn brown and wither. The moment that symptom appears, no time is to belost in calling in the doctor, for the whole crop is at stake. The cause of the disease is the sting of a fly upon the leaves of the celery. The egg is deposited be- tween the integuments cf the leaf, and soon hatch- es into a small white worm — sometimes visible on opening the leaf todhe naked eye, always by the aid of a microscope. If not attended to, the disease gradually descends to the root, and the whole plant falls a sacrifice. Amputate every defective and diseased leaf; and early in the morning, whilst the dew is on, sift on to the whole of the plants Iresh slaked lime. One such powdering is generally sufficient; but if not, give them another dose, and the first rain that falls will wash the plants clean, and you will probably see them fresh, green and stretch- ing away towards maturity. With regard to the mode of securing the crop for winter use, gentlemen have their fancies. I prefer leaving the plants in their original trenches, earthing up to the top of the plants, and covering with straw litter and'boards, so as to protect them sufficiently from the Irost, to be able to take them up as wanted; and this al- ways fresh and sweet. I do not fancy disturb- ing the roots, and transplanting into narrow quarters. Finally, any one in this country who wishes to have “first rate” celery must cultivate it him- self. Common laborers are sure to spoil it. Prolessional gardeners are seldom found, and generally too expensive when they are. Your ob’l servant, Junids Smitii. Extract from a letter from Henry Smith, Esq., dated Astoria, 'New York,'Jaiiuery 13. 184.5. Dear Sir; Agreeably to your request, i have measured some of the celery, taking a fair run of that which was taken up from the back gar- den ; 1st root measured 29 inches in length, and diameter proportionally large; 2d root measur- ed 29 inches in length, diameter in proportion ; '3d root 29 inche.s in "length, diameter also in pfoporvipc. The celery is as fine as lever had in quality; and 1 do not know that I ever saw much better even in Lancashire, where you know they are proverbial for fine celery. The parcel which we removed from the garden to the cellar, under the wing of the house, is all decaying very much as we expected it would; whilst the lot lelt standing in the garden, is beautiful and fresh. Siaia'J’JCULtFUKAL, OUTLSNE. AN OUTLINE OF THE FIRST PRINCIPLES OF IIOR I'ICULTURE : By John Lindley, F R.S., &c,, plainly inipracticable. All will not agree ; and if all agreed, r ol one would leel safe in trusting his neighbor, much less his competitor a thousand miles off. Immigration is a remedy some propose; ihi-s is a doubtful one, or at least partial, since few can or will adopt it: and so lar as it goes, destroys, instead (if renovating our region. A prominent sug- gestion is to embark in manufactures. It is an American fallacy, that all men are born not only equal, but, like Minerva, full grown, arm- ed and prepared lor everything. We seem to think with Dogberry, that learning comes by nature. The truth is quite the reverse; and when it is proposed to regenerate a lull grown cotton planter, and convert him into a manufac- turer, for one, 1 feel like putting the question t f IN'icodemus, “How can a man enter into his mother’s womb and be born again But we may employ agents. How? sell our negroes, give away our lands, and place our all (for all would be but little compared with the requi- sitions of factories on a profitable scale,) into the hands of strangers, to be invested in a bu- sine.«s about which we know nothing, and can- not hope to learn much, before it may be too late? We have some e.xperience in these mat- ters—vide the early history of Vaucluse and Saluda Factories, and many others which might be named. Let speculators speculate in facto- ries. Ne sutro. ultra, crepidam'' \.hoGs.\i a pa- gan maxim, is a wise one. II the cotton plan- ter is to work out his own salvation and re- deem his country, it must be in his own line of husini'ss. This may be taken for granted. He is a child of the sod, reared upon the sod, and he must live or perish on it. All shifts are vain. It is only making bad worse, to rush into radical changes, and “fly from present ills to others that we know not of.” Having made up our minds to hold on to our native soil, to the occupation we have been trained to, and to bap- tize ourselves anew “ in the sweat of the brow,” let us look around and see what can be done. The first thing that strikes us is, that we have been under a coUo-n sroieing delusion^ and sacri- ficed everything to it. When our soil was fresh and cotton high, we abandoned all other culture, and purchased with our cotton a vast deal that we might have made or grown our- selves. It is, however, folly to quarrel wdth the past; nor do I think our quarrel just. Why might not the cotton planter buy everything, even to his corn and butter, as well as the cot- ton manufacturer, if he found it to his advan- tase to plant cotton exclusively? And frr a time such was the case. Our errors w'ere in carrying on this system too long, and in exhaust- ing our soil too far. These we must retrieve: Not violently or suddenly, by radical revolu- tions, or slight-of-hand contrivances or combi- nation; but gradually, and on the same base line that our past operations have been conduct- ed. "W e all know something about making and applying manure-; we can readily learn all that is known every where, the world over; the facts are few, the principles simple, and our ex- perience and course of reflection have prepared us to comprehend and apply therri to our own profit; w'hile nature has been prodigal of the resources furnished us for the purpose. We have lime, marl, peat, muck, salt-marsh, pine- straw, oak leaves, and almost every variety of mineral and vegetable material for compost. All that is wanted is resolution to e mhark vigo- rously, and to the proper extent in the matter. Our farms will be our factories, our own slaves our operatives, ourselves must be the managers, no oui lay or very little is requisite. If we aie so foolish as to estimate the cost and profits of extensive manuring, by comparing it with past cotton planting, ol course we will conclude that it would be ruinous; but compare it with pre- sent coFon planting, and it will be seen that every planter can profitably engage one fourth or more of his whole force in making manure at this time ; and the prospective advantages are still greate r. Though no one else should do it, and no diminution of cotton ensue, still it is cer- tain, that cotton must sooner or later run up and command a speculative price, every now and then, for a year or two at a time. The planter whose land has been enriched by manure, may then, if so di.sposed, exhaust it again, and coir; his deposit of compost, in mint drops.'’ He wi 1 have lent labor worth bat little, and got back in due season golden usury; while the value of his lands has been vastly enhanced, his whole scheme of management expanded and im- proved in every direction, and his happiness in- estimably increased in seeing every thing about him flourish luxuriantly — big stalks of cotton and big ears of corn, fat hogs and cattle, greasy faced, smiling negroes, strong sound fences and substantial barns, stables and negro houses.— All these things follow inevitably in the train of heavy manuring. Less actual money there may be for the moment, but more comfort, more sat- isfaction and brighter hopes. Here is the sure remedy for the error of exhausting our soil here- tofore. It is also the only remedy. Slow, la- borious, requiring infinite pains, but it is the one way, and happily the certain way. The evil of over-buying has an equally sure and fruit-b°arin2' remedy. To show' that I am no enihusia.-^t, Twill say that I doubt very much whether we stiall ever be able to make our own cloths, blankets, bagging, even our shoes, and most plantation implements, any more than we can make our'salt and iron as cheap as we can buy them, even with cotton at five cents. It is true, that, according to locality, each one can do something at them; nearly all can furnish wool and hides to some extent, and make a great many little articles now foolishly purchased; while the whole may be made by persons who understand the business within the State. But our corn, meat, flour, rice, tobacco and butter, it is positively disgraceful for any cotton plan- ter to continue to buy. There is no five miles square in the State that is settled, but has suita- ble soil for growing enough rice, tobacco and w’heat for its own consumption at least, and on which machinery of some sort might not be erected to prepare them for use at a saving ex- pense, As to that glorious grain, Indian corn, it grows every w'here, and is the best gift of Pro- vidence to man. The Athenians worshipped Pallas for bestowing the olive; but the olive, the vine, and the products of the bee combined, are not to be compared to our maize. It is bread, drink, and sw’eetening. From the tassel to the root, fruit, leaf, stem and husk, all are of inesti- mable value ; and no w'here can it be cultivated to better advantage than w'ith us. On sand or clay, swamp or mountain, it flourishes every where; and he is not a true man, w’ho does not out of sheer gratitude, grow it till every granary overflows, and every maw about him is ready to burst with it. And can it be said, that with such a resource we cannot raise meat in abun- dance and to spare? From the first of June until frost, it may be soiled cheaper than clover, or than the best lands can be pastured. From thence to June aeain, it may be ground up alone, or corn-cob and shuck together, or fed w’ithout preparat’on at all, the stalks and leaves also — all equally grateful to every animal, and the cheapest as well as best food in the world. The cultivation and use of Indian corn is in its in- fancy. The time is fast approaching when those who can use it, will look with contempt upon every other grass in the w’orld, and pro- vide meat for most of those who are without the pale of its bounty. In the meantime, however, w’C can grow turnips, carrots, beets, artichokes ' and that other invaluable root, sweet potatoes. With the help ol these, we can rear every spe- cies of animal at as little cost and to as great perfecticu as can be done any where on earth. It is a great ana injurious mistake to suppose, that because our ranges are becoming exhaust- ed, and our climate forbids, as 1 believe it does, the grasses cultivated elsewhere, that this is not a stock raising countr}'. I am convinced it is equal to any other for that purpose. We are in a great measure exempt from the excessive heats, droughts, and wet spells further South and Southwest, as well as their pestiferous in- sects. Our State is well watered throughout, and this single advantage over the lime-stone regions of the West so famous for stock, is enough to torn the scale in our favor; while there and further North, every thing is pinched with cold for eight months in the year, and lor many of them the ground is covered deep with snow. Let the fact speak lor itself. Who has failed, that has attempted to raise animals here and taken the necessary pains? From the highest blooded cross of the Arabian and Barb, to the English Rabbit, every thing has been reared to perfection. It is only necessary to turn our at- tention seriously to it, and take the necessary trouble, to do it cheaper than it can be done else- where. The evil of over-buying is confined chiefly to articles for provisions, and 1 have shown the re- medy here. Like manuring, it is slow, labo- rious, and pains-taking; but as the two evils mentioned are intimately allied, so the two re- medies suggested, mutually act and re-act on one another. Manure makes corn— corn-stalks, stock -stock, manure. Let them be therefore combined. It is idle (American humbug) re- liance upon the magic of majorities, or the alche- my of transmuting, not metals only, but men, to talk of conventions to reduce the culture of cot- ton; or immigration to relieve the pressure of the times; or manufacturing to divert our la- bor. Let every man set about restoring his worn-out lands, and sacredly abstain from all bread and flesh not produced by himself, and a few short years will rejuvenate South Carolina, and make every, one of her sons rich in money — and what money cannot purchase, contentment. We should never doubt the providence of God. The greatest blessings often come to us in the appearance of the greatest evils. In our entire devotions to mere cotton growing we have ne- glected the rich resources bestowed upon us, and the culture of crops lar more important to both onr moral and physical well being. The ' lime has arrived w’hen to do so longer, might be a lasting injury to ns. Let us be grateful to Him, who through only temporary suffering, recalls ns from our errors, and holds out to us such lavish rewards for doing right. For our own good, and for the wellare of our species, the agricultural capabilities of our State must be developed. With cotton at five cents, this will be more fully done in ten years, than it would be in as many centuries, perhaps, with cotton at ten cents. A wdser forecast than our own has ordained our task, andif we would im- itate that wisdom, we must address ourselves to i s accomplishment, Holkhxm. Hints to Housekeepers. — Woollens should be washed in very hot suds and not rinsed. Luke-warm water shrinks them. Suet keeps good all the year round, if chop- ped and packed in a stone jar, and covered with molasses. When molasses is used in cooking, it is a pro- digious improvement to boil and skim it before you use it. It takes out the unpleasant raw taste, and makes it almost as good as sugar. Use hard soap to wash your clothes, and soft to wash your floors. Soft soap is so slippery that it wastes a good deal in washing clothes. It is easy to have a supply of horse-radish all w'inter. Have a quantity grated while the root is in perfection, put it in bottles fill it with vin- egar, and keep it corked tight. Do not wrap knives and forks in woollens ; wrap them in strong paper. Steel is injured by lying in ■wooWens.—American Traveller. 120 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. $1)0 Soutl)0rn $ulttx3atou AUGUST^, GA. VOI., HI., «0. 8... AUGUST, 1845. Improvement of Soils. Our correspondent, BIr. N. Ashley, propounds inquiries as to the effect of putting clay, swamp mud, and lime, on the light sandy soils of the piney woods. So much depends on the character of the sand, clay and mud which it is proposed to mix togeth- er, and so much on the minuteness with which these ingredients have been divided, by the ac- tion of air and water, and the intimacy with which they shall be blended together, that the precise effect of such mixture can be determined only by careful experiment. If Mr. Ashley will take an acre of his light, sandy soil, and experi- ment upon it, carefully noting the result, and keeping an account of the expense, he will soon be able to determine for himself what his interest requires him to do. In the meantime, if any of our readers, situated as Mr. Ashley is, have turned their attention to this subject, and are able to throw any light upon it, we would be pleased to have the results of their experience laid before the public in the pages of the Cultivatoe. As regards the use of swamp mud, we have a statement by the committee of the Pendleton Agricultural Society, who examined the farm of Mr. R. A. Maxwell, of an experiment at manur- ing a very exhausted piece of land with leaves spread upon the surface and plowed in, and a spade fuU of swamp mud to each hill. The re- sult, the committee say, when compared with a portion of the same field not thus managed, was said to be the difference between an ear and a nub- bin. Still, we do not mean to say that because the application of swamp mud made ears in place of nubbins in Pendleton District, South Carolina, the same result will certainly folio w in Telfair county, Ga., until we know the chemical charac- ter of the mud in both cases. It remains for ac- tual expeiiment to determine what the result will be in the latter case. So far as our own experience and observation have gone, we are entirely satisfied that all light, sandy soils are wonderfully improved by the addi- tion of clay and lime. As regards the addition of cl’ y, our experiments have consisted in bring- ing a clay subsoil to the surface and mixing it with the light gravelly cop soil. The good effects of such an operation on the soil have been very sa ■ tisfactory indeed. And we imagine that most per- sons tilling the light, sandy soil of the piney %voods will find it least expensive to bring up the clay that usually underlies the sand, and incor- porating it with the sand, either by subsoil or french plowing. As for lime it is so essential an ingredient in all good soils, both as a mechanical and chemical agent, that even the spoonful to the hill proposed by Mr. Ashley must be better than none. The analysis of soils quoted in the subsequent part of this article, must conviitce every one of the indispensable necessity of the presence of large quantities of lime in all soils that admit of very profitable cultivation fora long series of years. In Pennsylvania formerly one hundred bushels of lime to the acre every ten years was considered a moderate application of it. Mr. Patterson, of Springfield, Carrol county, Maryland, in reclaiming the poor, worn out land of his estate, commences by putting on two hundred bushels of unslaked lime pur acre, which is equal to about four hundred bushels of lime, as usually applied. He lets it lie undisturb- ed for two or three years, and then incorporates it thoroughly with the soil, adding all the manure he can get. Even this very heavy dressing of lime is found not to be too tiiuch. In our piney woods, in very many places, lime may be applied with equal liberality ; for this region, so much needing lime, has the singular advantage of hav- ing in many localities, convenient of access, de- posits of shell marl of sufficient extent to answer all the demands of its Agriculture for lime, for hundreds of years to come. A careful geological survey is all that is wanting to bring these hidden treasures to light. On this subject of mixing sand, clay and lime together to improve the soil, what do the books say? With the reader’s leave we will look into them a little. The first thing that strikes us is the fact that, without exception, they all urge upon us the importance of correcting the excess of clay by the addition of sand, and of sand by the addition of clay, perfecting the whole by a plentiful supply of lime. Davy, in his 4th lecture on Agricultural Chem- istry, says ; — If on washing a sterile soil it is found to contain the salt of iron, or any acid mat- ter, it may be ameliorated by the application of quick lime. If there be an excess of calcareous matter, it may be improved by the application of sand or clay. Soils too abundant in sand are benefited by the use of clay, or marl or vegetable matter. A deficiency of vegetable or animal mat- ter must be supplied by manure. The best na- tural soils are those of which the materials have been derived from different strata, wdrich have been minutely divided by air and water, and are intimately blended together : and in improving soils artificially, the farmer cannot do better than imitate the processes of nature. The materials for the purpose are seldom far distant : coarse sand is often found immediately on chalk, and beds of sand and gravel are common below clay. The labor of improving the texture or constitu- tion of the soil is repaid by a great permanent ad- vantage : less manure is required, and its fertility is insured.” These instructions of Davy were delivered an- nually for ten years before the Board of Agri- culture, viz. from 1802 to 1812 ; and the whole series of eight lectures was published in 1813. Ten years afterwards, to wit, in 1823, Chaptal published his work — ” Chemistry applied to Ag- riculture.” Davy’s doctrines had, therefore, been subjected to the test of practical experi- ment for nearly twenty years, and were then con- firmed by the scientific researches of Chaptal. In the 4th article of his 2d chapter Chaptal says : “The best basis for good lands is a mixture of lime, silica and alumina I but in order that they may possess all the desirable qualities, it is neces- sary that certain proportions, which an analysis of the best lands has made known, should be ob- served in the mixture.” What these proportions are, he tried to establish by an analysis of the best soils of various climates, made by scientific men in whom the utmost confidence could be placed. One of the most fertile soils in Sweden was found by Beigmann to consist of Cnarse Silex 30 parts. Silica 26 Alumina 14 Carbonate ofl.irne 30 100 A fertile soil from the neighborhood of Turin, analysed by Giobert, was composed of Silica 7? to 79 Alumina •••■.... 9 to 14 Carbonate of Lime 5 to 12 Tillet, at Paris, made a great number of ex- periments in making fertile mixtures, of which the most fertile contained; Coarse Silex 2.5 Silica. 21 Alumina 16.5 Carbonate of Lime 37.5 An excellent wheat soil from near Drayton, in Bliddlesex, England, gave, on analysis. Carbonate of Lime 28 Silica 32 Alumina 39 These results are to be understood as excluding animal and vegetable matter, and water. The reader, on referring to Chaptal’s work, will find statements of the analysis of other fer- tile soils; all, however, showing the same gene- ral result, and going to establish his doctrine, that the fertility of soils diminishes in proportion as one or the other of the three principal earths, lime, sand, or clay predominates, and becomes almost nothing in those which poss 'ss the pro- perties of but one and, therefore, that the mix- ture of these earths is necessary to the formation of a productive soil. In 1332, nine years after the publication of Chaptal’s work, Edmund Ruffin, of Virginia, published his “ Essay on Calcareous Blanures.” In the 1st Chapter of Part I, he says : “ The earths important to agriculture, and which form nearly the whole of the known globe, are only three — silicious, aluminous and calcareous. All the earths, v/hen pure as they are ever furnished by nature, are entirely barren — norwouldany ad- dition of putrescent manures enable either of the earths to support healthy vegetable life. The mixture of the three earths indue proportions, will correct the defects of all, and with a suffi- ciency of animal or vegetable matter, putrescent, and soluble in water, a soil is formed in which plants can extend theii roots freely, yet be firm- ly supported, and derive all their needtul supplies of air, water and war.mth, without being oppres- sed by too much of either.” In 1341, Johnston’s Lectures on Agricultural Chemistry and Geology were published. In the lecture on the improvement of soils by mechani- cal means, he says : “There are some soils so obviously defective in constitution, that the most common observer can, at once, pronounce them likely to be improved by mechanical ad- mixtures of various kinds. VVe naturally impart consistence to a sandy soil by an ad mixt are of c! ay, and openness and porosity to stifTclaysby the ad- dition of sand. The good effects which almost in- variably follow from the addition of clay to peaty or sandy soils, are due to the production, at on and the same time, of a physical tind of a chemi- THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 12i cal change. They are not only rendered firmer, or more solid, by the admixture of clay, but they derive from this clay, at the same time, some of those mfineral substances which they previously contained in less abundance. The addition of marl to the land acts often in a similar, two-fold capacity. It renders clay lands more open and friable, and to all soils brings an addition of car- bonate and generally of phosphate of lime, both of which are proved by experience to be not only very influential but to be absolutely necessary to healthy vegetation.” Of the same general import are the conclusions of a still later authority — Boussingault. On page 206 of his “Rural Economy,” it is asserted that “ The quality of an arable soil depends es- sentially on the association of these two matters : — sand, whether it be silicious, calcareous or felspathic, always renders a soil friable, perme- able, loose. * * * * Clay posses- ses properties entirely opposed to those of sand. — The proper character, or, if you will, the quality of a soil, depends essentially on the ele- ment which predominates in the mixture of sand and clay that composes it — and between the two extremes, which are alike unfriendly to vegeta- tion, viz. the completely sandy soil, and the un- mixed clay, all the other varieties, all the inteime- diate shades can be placed.” And at page 214, tifter having minutely described the character of clay and sand, and certain alkaline and earthy salts, of which carbonate of lime is the principal and most important, he asserts that “ the mine- ral substances which we have now studied, taken isolatedly, wmuld form an almost barren soil ; but by mixing them with discretion, a soil would be obtained presenting all the essential conditions of fertility, which depeid, as it would seem, much less on the chemical constitution of the elements of the soil than on their physical properties, such as their faculty of imbibition, their density, their power of conducting heat, &c., &c.” These results of scientific research merely con- firm the conclusions that the common sense of mankind had arrived at, long before the atten- tion of science was directed to the subject. But they have been very rarely applied to practice, except as to the application of lime, simply be- cause of the great expense of digging up and transporting clay and sand from places where they are in excess to those where they are defi- cient. And this, after all, is the main considera- tion— the question of expense we mean. Prudent men must ever so regard it. Boussingault tried it on his own lands, and came to the conclusion that “it would be better [jolicy to buy new lands with the capital v.’hich ■would be required to improve those he already possessed in the manner which has been indicated.” And he adds that he “ should have no difficulty in citing nu- merous instances where improvements by ming- ling the different kinds of soil were ruinous, in the'end, to those who undertook them.” So, also Johnston, with true practical wisdom, says, “ the only question on the subject that ought to arise in the mind of a prudent man, is that which is connected with the economy of the case. Is this the most profitable way in which I can spend my money? Can I employ the spare labor of my ‘men and horses, in any other way which will yield me a larger return ?” Plow deep to secure your crops from drought. Improved Breed of Cattle. We have been furnished with a description of an extraordinary calf, of the Durham stock, be- longing to Dr. H. J. Bates, of Covington, New- ton county, Ga. The dimensions were, on 2d J une last, as follows : 4 feel 10 inches in height, 7 “ lOt “ “ length, 4 “ 8^ “ “ girth behind the shoulders, 20| “ “ round the arm near the body, .Supposed w-eight 4S0, or 500 pounds Age, when measured, 1 year, 3 months and 6 days. We believe we are safe in saying that almost every attempt to introduce the improved breeds of cattle into the southern States has ended in disappointment. They are liable to be attacked by a fatal disease, which is thought tobeinflama- tion of the brain. The first symptom is a very languid appearance of the animal. Loss of ap- petite follows — then short, quick breathing, and fever, and sometimes cough — all ending in death' To avoid this result, as far as possible, it is re- commended that none but young cattle be im- ported— to bring them into the country early in the fall — to feed well with good hay through the winter — to turn them out in spring to good pas- ture of tender, succulent grass, •where there is easy access to pure water and abundance of shade. Through the latter part of summer and in the fall, they should be kept in a cool stable during the heat of the day, and during the night also — as it is thought the dews of September are as in- jurious as the heat of the midday sun in summer. If with such treatment they can be kept alive for two years, they may, perhaps, stand the climate, provided always they can get something besides shucks to cat in winter, and something better than sedge grass pastures to range in during sum- mer. Would it not be better to depend on our native stock? It appears to us that all we need in the southern States, to enable us to have beef, milk, butter, and cheese as good as man can desire, is, in the first place, judicious selections from our own stock — then good pasture in summer — plenty of hay and good shelter in winter — and gentle treatment at all times. With means of this sort in abundance,' our native stock will be found, we think, to answer all our purposes ; es- pecially if our servants, and very many masters, too, can be induced to remember that there is some little difference between a cow and a mule, as to the manner in which they should be treat- ed. What else than blue-john, in the very high- est state of perfection, can be* expected from cows fed on shucks and exposed to wind and rain all winter — turned out to sedge-grass pastures in spring, and brought up every evening in a trot or gallop, by the little negroes and dogs, or a big negro on horseback. Sugar for Manure. Did 3'ou ever hear the like of this before ? A writer in an English paper, the Mark Lane Ex- press, says ; “Sugar will, now the price is re- duced, I have no doubt, be extensively used. I speak from experience when 1 say that, ol all extraneous manures (if one it may be called,) it has produced mote visible effects, in the least space of time, than any other I everu.sed, and is strictly what the turnip requires in the first stage of its growth. I would strongly recom- mend it to be tried on a small scale mixed with ashes.” Prof. Shepard’s Analyses. We, at last, have an account of the inorganic elements of Cotton Wool, Cotton Seed, Indian Cora and Sweet Potatoes. See the account of Prof. Shepard’s analyses of these articles in an- other part of this paper. Those who cultivate these crops now may know what their soil must contain to supply the inorganic constituents of such parts of these plants as have been examin- ed. We wait anxiously for the further analyses promised of southern Agricultural productions. Mr. Priutice’s Sale. The sale of IMr. Printice’s herd of improved Short Horned Cattle took place on the 25th ult , at Mount Hope, near Albany, New York. The prices at which the cattle were sold would indi- cate that they must have been very superior in- deed. Sixteen cows, from 4 to 1 1 years old, went at prices varying from SO to 215 dollars: fifteen heifers and heifer calves, from two weeks to three years old, at from 45 to 225 dollars ; and ten bulls and bull calves, from three days to five years old, at from 25 to 205 dollars. Total 41 animals S4,622 50 • Average §112 75 There is some inducement for men to pay at- tention to the improvement of cattle when they can sell them for such prices. An Independent Man. It seems to us that, with a little self-denial, every man in the country might place himself in a situation like that described by the Far- mer’s Gazette. “We fell into conversation,” says the Gazette, “a lew days ago with a gentle- man who resides but a short distance from Chesterfield Conn House, S. C,, on the subject of his farming prospects the present year. He informed us, that he expected his corn crop would prove an entire failure— but, he remark- ed, he had corn enough to last another year. We observed, that if the corn failed, there was but a slight prospect ot7nasie, and bacon would be scarce. He assented, but said he nevei fat- tened his hogs on maste; it was his habit to plant a good pea crop, and give the hogs the run of the fields, alter he had gathered his corn ; but, said he, it m}' pea crop fails, I have bacon enough to last another )'ear — and, if I oice any mail a, cent, I don'' t knoio it 1 Here, then, is a man who has an abundance of bread and meat, and has practically carried out the Scriptural injunction, ‘ owe no man anything.’ May we not lairly set him down zs an independent man." The Season. Many persons are speaking of the past spring and present summer, up to the middle of Julv, as the dryest and hottest that we have ever had in the Southern States. It has been, in these particulars, very lemarkable, indeed; but not without parallel by any means. A writer in a Charleston paper has been l.ioking into the re- cords of the past ; and has furnished us with the following extracts fri m an account, by Dr, Chalmers, of the spring and summer ol 175'2. The preceding spring having been unusually dry and not more than .5.41 inches of rain lall- 122 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. ing in May and June, we had not a shower Irorn the 20th of the latter month till the 2lst of July, the weather in the mean time being excessively hot. The consequence was that the vapors which floated in the air were so elevated by rarefaction, that dewssoon failed; the great heat of the nights also contributing to their being detained aloft in the atmosphere, so that by the 13th ol July a geneial drouth prevailed — the earth was so parched and dry that not the least perspiration appeared on plants, which shrunk and withered. All standing waters were dried up, as were many wells and springs, so that travellers could not find water, either tor them- selves or their beasts for a whole day together, for the soil being very light and transpirable, it was soon drained of its moisture. * * * * In several settlements no water could be found by digging ever so deep, for which search the enclosures were laid open, and the cattle drove out to shilt for themselves. But very many of them perished tor want of both pasturage and water, as probably did great numbers ot those birds that require drink, lor none of them were to be seen amongst us. In short, the distresses of men and beast at this time are not to be de- scribed. When the thermometer rose to the 97th and 98th degree in the shade, the atmosphere seem- ed to glow as if fires were kindled around us, the air being likewise so thick and smoky with- all, that the sun appeared as a ball of red hot metal, and shined very faintly. * * Refreshing sleep was therefore a stranger to our eyes, insomuch that people were in a manner worn down with watching and the excessive heat together. Many people lay abroad on the pavements. During this season a candle was blown out and set in a chimney at ten o’clock at night, the wick of w^hich continued to burn clearly till next morning, and was likely to do so fcr many hours together. * ' * * * The mercury rose above the 90th degree of the thermometer during the months of May, June, July and August, and for iv:enty successive days, excepting three in June and July, the tempera- ture of the shaded air varied between the 90th and 101st division, and sometimes it must have been 30 degrees wanner in the open sunshine. Neither wa,s ever a more healthy season k7iown than this, so long as the weather continued steady, warm and fair. Agricultural Education. The Rev. Cari.isle P. B.M.iRTiN, ot Madi- son, Morgan county, advertising the commence- raentofthe second term of his “ Family Board- ing School,” informs the public, that “ in connec- tion with the usual studies, (as soon as practi- cable,} lectures on agricultural chemistry will be delivered before the students, and the princi- ples of chemistry, as connected with the noble and important subject of agriculture, illustrated by experiment and analysis.” Now we like this proposal. It is undertaking to do just what the country wants; and in a wmy too that is sure to be successful, so far as the explanation ol the elements of the subject is concerned. More than this— that is, the explanation of first prin- ciples—individual eSorl cannot well accom- plish. Indeed, beyond this it would not perhaps be well for individual effort to attempt to go. The full illustration ot the subject in all its branches and details, must be the business of our State College. And the State must furnish it with the means of doing this effectually, by appropriating the money to sustain the necessa- ry professorship. After the vast sums the State has expended for the benefit of those who are destined for the professions ot divinity, law^ and medicine, the tillers of the ground must demand that something shail be done by the State for that profession without which none of the oth- ers could exist for a moment, and w'hose great business is the conversion of earth, air and wa- ter, into bread, meat and clothing. The neces- sity of some such provision being made by the State is becoming stronger every day, from the fact that every day the value of mere bone and muscle, as a mechanical agent, is becoming less — and must in the end become comparative- ly worthless in agricultural operations, unless guided by an enlightened intellect. “ I had occasion,” says a writer in the Lon- don Agricultural Cazette, to visit the son of a friend of mine, at a school of great respectabil- ity in a wealthy agricultural district. The master, a very intelligent person, showed me the details of his well-arranged establishment, which was certainly a pattern in every respect. On entering the well-filled school-room, he ob- served that most of his scholars were farmers’ sons. Glancing at his library, I inquired what books on agricultural subjects it contained ? The master seemed struck with surprise (as if the thought of such books had never occurred to him) and replied, ‘With shame I acknow- ledge, not one; but send me a list of such as you recommend, and I will immediately pro- cure them.’ Now I apprehend this case might be multiplied by a thousand or more. Can we wonder, then, that a youth who never heard the word agriculture at school, and who is seldom or never sent into different districts to be taught agriculture as a science, should go home to his parent, and follow his plan of farming, be it good, bad or indifferent. In all other trades and professions an apprenticeship is considered es- sential to the acquirement of knowledge; but farming, the most necessary ot all trades, is to be left to chance, or rather mischance. A sys- tem of uniformity is essential in making a hat, coat, orshoes; there are established education- al rules for the church and the bar and the se- nate ; but agriculture, the greatest interest ol all, on which cur very existence depends, economi- cally and politically, is to be like a ship without a compass, tossed about by the ever-varying gale of individual opinion, without a hope ol reach- ing the port of Perfection. Were a youth ever so much inclined to furnish his mind wdth com- parisons and observations ot the various sys- tems of culture in our own different counties, as well as in foreign climes, there is under the present school system, no opportunity for his doing so; and no doubt he wmuld be surprised if tofd that we are a century at least behind the Chinese in agricultural practice. 1 hope we shall soon see every school, and, in fact, every farmer’s parlor, possessing a Tew sound practi- cal works on agriculture. I presume no man will consider he knows every thing in agricul- ture— if he does, it is unfortunate for him. Lit- tle as I am acquainted wdth the subject, I am fully convinced that it is full of interest, and of such extent that a lifetime of study and prac- tice M'ould find us on the wrong side of perfec- tion.” The Lazy Fever. A correspondent of the American Agricultu- rist has furnished for that paper a recipe for the cure ot that most pestilent disease known as the lazy fever, and sometimes the slow fever, copied from “The Breviary of Health, by Andrew Boorde, Physicke Doctoure— Anno 1557.” We copy the recipe for the benefit of such of our readers as may happen to have about them per- sons afflicted with this horrible disease, that are worth curing : “The 151 chapitre doth showe of an evyll fever, the which doth cumber yonge persons, and named the fever burden or lazy fever. * * * * Tbys fever doth come naturally, or else by evyll and slouthful brynging upp. If it doth come by nature, then it is incurable ; for it can never bee gotten out of the bone that is bred in the fleshe. If it be by slouthful brynging upp, it may be holpen by dylligent labour. There is nothing for the fever burden so good as un- guenlum baculinum ; that is, lake a sticke or wand, a yard of length and more, and let it be as great as a man’s fynger ; and wyth it anoynt the back and shoulders well, morning and eve- ning, and doe thys 21 dayes — and if thys lever wyll not be holpen in that tyme, let them beware of waggynge on the gallowes. And whyles they do take tbys medicine, put no lub- berwort in theyre pottage.” Communicated for the Cultivator. A Table of the Weather. The following article is from the pen of the celebrated Dr. Adam Clarke, foretelling the weather through all the lunations of each year, for ever. M’n TIME OP CHANGES. IN^SUMMER. Between midnight ) and 2 o’clock in 1 Fair | the morning. j Between 2 and 4 } Cold with fre-( in the morning. \ quent show’s! Between 4and 6 a.m. Rain a? oj Between 6 and 8 “ Wind & rain.; CD g Between 8 and 10 “ Changeable.. ; & D a Between lOand 12 “ i Frequent ? ; j showers. ( ; Between 12 o’cl’ck ? at noon & 2 P M. 5 Very rainy.. .; O tf Between 2 and 4 P M. Changeable.. 1 ° Between 4 and 6 “ Fair ^ F a £ Between 6 and 8 “ f Fair ifwind 1 IS VV. ; rainy ] if S. orSW'.J *-< kj Z Between Sand 10 “ Ditto. ; Between 10 and 12 “ Fair IN WINTER. C Hard frost, r unless wind ( be S. or W. i Snow and r stormy, llain. Stormy. C Cold rain if (wind West, ( snow if East t C o 1 d and \ high wind. Snow or rain. Fair and mild. Fair. ('Fdir& frosty I if wind N. or ■{ N.E.; rai n or I snow if S. I^or S.West . Fair & frosty. Observations — 1st. The nearer the time of the Moon’s change, first quarter, full and last quarter are to midnight the fairer will the weather be during the seven days following. 2. The space for this calculation occupies from 10 at night ’till 2 next morning. 3. The nearer to midday or noon the phases of the moon happen, the more wet weather may be expected during the next seven days. 4. The space of this calculation occupies from 10 in the forenoon to 2 in the afternoon. These observations refer principally to the Summer, though they afl'ect Spring and Autumn. 5. The moon’s change, first quarter, full and last quarter, happening during six of the afternoon hours, i. e. from 4 to 10, may be followed by fair weather, but this mostly dependent on the wind, as noted in Table. 6. Though the weather, from a variety of irregular causes, is more uncertain in the latter part of Au umn, the hole of Winter and the beginning of Spring, yet in the mam, the above observations will apply to those periods also. 7. To prognosticate correctly, especially in those cases where the wind is concerned, the observer should be within sight of a good vane, where the Four Cardinal Points of the Heavens are correctly placed ; with this precaution, he will scarcely ever be deceived in depending on the Table. Useful DirectioHs. Britannia ware should be first rubbed gently with a woollen cloth and sweet oil, then washed in warm suds and rubbed with soTt leather and whiting. Thus treated it will retain its beauty to the last. New iron should be very gradually heated at first ; after it has become inured to the heat, it is not as likely to crack. It is a good plan to put new earthen ware into cold water, and let it heatgradually until it boils — then cool again. Brown earthen ware, par- ticularly, may be toughened in this way. A handful of rye or wheat bran thrown in while it is boiling, will preserve the glazing, so that it will not be destroyed by acid or salt. The oftener carpets are shaken the longer they will wear ; the dirt that collects under them grinds out the threads. If you wish to preserve fine teelh, always clean them thoroughly alter you have eaten your last meal at night. THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 123 ©riginal Communications, Sheep and Wool, Me. Camak Feeling a deep interest in the cause of agriculture in Georgia, and an earnest hope for the success of the youTHEKN Cultiva- TOH, I am tempted, by a solicitation from you to its patrons, to send a few communicatioris_ for publication, should you deem them of sufficient importance for the attention of its readers. I regarded the publication of the Cultivatoe, at the time I first noticed its prospectus, as the harbinger of a new era for the agriculture of our State; and I do assure you, sir, that my expecta- tions have been fully realized. The influence produced by such a work upon the minds of our people is practically illustrated. Had I the means of dissemination, I would place it in the hands of every reading planter in Georgia; for it is work- ing wonders upon the passions and prejudices of those who have already been aroused by the les- sons it inculcates. The Cultivatcb, in truth, has given an impulse to agriculture, wherever it has been circulated, that is really astonishing, and in those sections of country, too, where once prejudice and gross ignorance of its first princi- ples seemed to reign. But the mist is rapidly dis- appearing, and we may now safely hope, that the day is passed when men, for shame of their ig- norance and prejudice, will deny to their neigh- bors, that there is any practical knowledge of ag- riculture to be gained by the study of books, or that book farming is all humbug. Poor simple- ton he must be, who now contents himself to “follow in the footsteps of his predecessor,” or to follow plans and customs because they w’ere the practice perhaps of his father thirty or forty years since. 1 am often both delighted and amused to witness the salutary influence exerted by the Cultivatoe in many sections of the country. It puts men to speculating, thinking and acting, who five years since considered their neighbor a visienary planter, who wmuld em- brace any new plan because it was derived from some book. These men now are not only sub- scribers to the Cultivator, but are active and zeal- ous members, many of them, of agricultural as- sociations, and are among the first to av^ail them- selves of any new theory by which they can “ grow two blades where they could only one before.” Such is the onwmrd march of mind in every section of our State, through wffiich I have tra- veled within the last two months. Then, under an awakened sense of what constitutes our dear- est interest as a people, striving to add to our happiness and comfort in this life, may we not cherish the hope that greater ends may yet be effected to accomplish what we so earnestly and so devoutly seek? As the system of reform, so honorable, has begun in Georgia, is the present not an auspicious time to do something for our agriculture by legislative provision? Permit me, sir, through the columns of the Cultivator, to in- voke your aid and the editorial corps of our State, in the achievement of a measure, the success of which will enhance one of the dearest interests of Georgia. It is a measure, I believe, that has been overlooked by most of the Slates of the Union ; but why should Georgia hesitate to con- summate a measure fraught with such manifold blessings to her citizens ? Will our next Legis- lature not grant us a law for the encouragement of the raising of sheep and the production of wool? Just reflect fora moment on the tribute we pay annually for our domestic cloth, while we have a climate and soil that cannot be surpassed by any other on this globe for sheep and wool. — Yes, it is a fact that there is not such a country on the earth embracing such advantages as Geor- gia for the raising of sheep. I write, sir, from an experience of twenty year’s trial and observation of this animal in different sections of the coun- try. And why shall we not live and profit by ad- vantages such as we have? We can! And if you will only bring the subject home to the peo- ple of Georgia, and impress it upon the good sense of our next Legislature, that we claim at their hands, as a people, the benefit of such a measure, it would be hailed from ocean to moun- tain as the richest blessing under Heaven. Then carinot some of our benevolent and enlightened legislators be induced to advocate a measure so iinportant ? My life for the issue, he who accom- plishes the task, will confer as great a bounty up- on his people, and build for himself a monument as high in the gratitude of his State, as Sir Wal- ter Raleigh did by the introduction of the potato into Ireland. The successful result of such a measure would open a new field of industry and enterprize in Georgia, and give employment to thousands of our people, who now live out a wretched and miserable existence ; for men who now produce not a pound of wool, nor afford it for their fami- lies, would, in less than five years, rear sheep “ upon a thousand hills.” If this branch of industry can be rendered so lucrative, as I shall, at another time, attempt to show, by an enlightened system of legislative action, then why not begin the work ? There is certainly no agricultural pursuit that promises a greater return upon the outlay to the planter than the raising of sheep. I presume that there is not an intelligent man in Georgia, identified with the soil, or claiming an interest therein, who would not cordially unite in promoting this branch of industry by legislative encouragement. Then, for the purpose of accomplishing a measure of such general and vital interest to the people of the State, I suggest that the next legislature grant an act for the benefit of sheep-raisers, em- bracing a premium upon the quality and produc- tion of wool ; a price for the head of every wolf killed within the limits of the State; and lastly, include all dogs within the State under the head of“ Domestic Relations,” by making your neigh- bor as responsible for the transgression of his dog as his slave, to be determined in courts ofmagis- trate’sjurisdiction as in common cases of “debt.” In subsequent communications under this head, 1 shall contrast the comparative merits of the different sections of Georgia for the raising cf sheep, and the breeds best suited for those sec- tions. Very respectfully, Jethgo. Reclusa, July., 1845. Evaporation of Manures-“Bermuda Grass. Mr. Camak : — I noticed in the last No. of the Cultivator, a communication on the subject of “Manures — do they sink or evaporate?” Now I am fond of theory which leads to practical de- monstrations ; but when the latter confute the former, I am compelled to yield. In regard to manures, you may take a plat of ground in the form of a basin, (which certainly would be the best location.) to test the point. Place a suffi- ciency of stuff on it, that, if converted into ma- nure by the quickest process possible, would form a coat one foot thick over the whole surface. — Now I will venture to assert, that it you let it remain in the basin until fully decomposed, it will not be two inches thick. Dig now in the soil and you will find it the same depth as before, with the addition of the manure. Nov/ will Mr. ‘ Salamander’ tell me wffiat hasbecome of the bal- ance, if it does not evaporate? My experience as a practical farmer for about thirty years, has taught me that manure always rises and never sinks. In my early days I cultivated poor pine land, and made con.^-iderable manure, plowed shallow and manured in the hill. My reasons : — In the first place, the land was shaded by the trees, and the fall of the leaves (or straw) and grass created a sort of soil which, uniil it was exhausted by being exposed and cultivated, pro- duced tolerably well. As soon as we passed through that soil, it became a continuation of coarse sand. After manuring in the hill, let there come a heavy rain and you would find a large portion of your manure in the middle fur-i'ow. — This every piney wmods farmer knows. Try the experiment of digging where you have manured heavily ; get below' where you have plowed, and you never find your manure, nor any of the ef- fects. The land being porous and heavy, the .manure light, all the valuable properties are lost by the action of the sun. My next experiment was on an bid farm in the county of Wilkes. Here I had lands that once were very fertile, but were almost destroyed by skinning. In fact, I inquired of several farmers how the^ could tell how' much they had in culti- vation, as there appeared to be as many acres in sedge as were cultivated in the same field. My first object was to procure some of Freeborn & Hitchcock’s cast iron two horse plow’s ; the next was to get a large shovel wdth a wing on each side, similar to the turning scooter, the only dif- ference being, mine was large with two wungs, cleaning the furrow out well, drawn by two hor- ses, as deep as they could pull it. Then I placed all the rough manure I could get in my’ stables, and corn talks trod to pieces in my lot, in those farrows, bedding on it deep with the two horse plow, (the cast iron plow.) My neighbors object- ed to my manure as not being sufficiently rotted. It dry, my corn would burn up they said; yeti made corn to sell. This was in ISIP. I have used . this kind of plow’ ever since, and though I may not have succeeded as well as some persons at a distance, I have generally made good crops and raised fine hogs. I have lived in this county for the last twenty- two years, and have notone loot of sedge land on any that I opened myself. I have purchased several farms that have some sedge on them. But, sii, in stating my’ own experience in farm- ing, I have necessarily left a part of the first question behind — does manure sink or evaporate? When I got on the clay’ lands I nlow’ed deep. Was it because it had a foundation that w'ould not let the manure sink? No. It had a soil, which, although exhausted, w:as fine and sus- ceptible of improvement, on account of its firrriness, and not so likely to suffer by evapora- tion. I used manure in its rough or new’ state, because it had not lost two-thirds of its value by evaporation, (wffiich is the kind we farmers call w’ell rotted.) I used that sort because it will go three times as far, and do about the same good. I plowed deep to prevent evaporation and to re- tain moisture, and enable me to plow’ my crop well. Now, in concluding the subject, T will ask' any candid man. for his own satisfaction, to dig a hole (or pit) on any kind of soil, (where it has been manured the best,) and see if he can find any appearance of m.anure below where it has been plowed. I would go farther, and invite the chemist to rest it, ard then try the same quality of soil at the same depth, and I am w’ell assured that they w’ill agree w'ith me that manure never sinks but evaporates. Perhaps I ought now to quit; but there is an- other subject I must speaKof; and that is Eer- mudag;rass. I see it recommended by a number of intelligent gentlemen, (I cannot say farmers.) I have been acquainted w’ith it fon twenty-seven years, and have had a good deal to do wi’h it, and think I ought to be somewhat acquainted tvith it. I look upon it as the worst curse a fa- ther could pronounce upon his son, to leave him a farm stocked w’ith Bermuda grass. To old men I have nothing to say on the subject. Let them t:y’ it if they see proper. But to young farmers, let me exhort them not to be led away by the fa- vorable opinions of others, who, I would hope, recommended it after avery partial acquaintance, but to examine some of the many fine fields in Georgia which have been and will remain curs- ed W’ith it to the end of time. Newton Co., July, 1945. A Coen Maker. Ou the Application of Manure. Mr. Camak: — What is the most proper man- ner of applying manure so as to derive tbegreat- est benefit Irom it? I ask the question because, from the heading of an article in your May No., page 70, 1 conclude that you are in lavor of bury- ing in preference to top-dressing. The writer of the article alluded to says, “There is a popular opinion that manure sink.s, &c.” ‘ And farther on, “But is the popular opi- nion true, that manure is wasted hy sinking.” He then goes on to prove that it is not true, by the clarifying effects of a barrel of sand, the “operations of nature” in purifying rain water, and finally adds, “i have shown that manure does not sink, but evaporates.” Now, sir, I happen to be one of (hose persons that have imbibed that “ popular opinion,” and, until “ Coatswood,” from analysing the “nearly pure water” that runs fiom the barrel, can prove that it contains nothing derived from the “ im- pure liquid manure” thatw’ould be beneficial to the growth of plants, I shall not be satisAed that none of the manure sinks even as low as the spiggol hole at the bottom of the barrel. But, on the contrary, I must believe, that all that is soluble of the manure, except perha'ps a part of such salts as might chemically combine with the sand, comes out wiih the apparently pure water below. We but rarely find spring water, that has percolated ihrough strata of many feet in thickness, entirely deprived of its impurities. I believe that something in a gaseous form is 124 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. lo&l Iroin tnariure in bLilk, or in a situation that would cause it to heat and undergo rapid decoin- posit'.on ; and that the most lavorable situation lor a small quantity (so much, for instance, as we would place in, or on, a hill of corn) is that in which it is usually placed— the hill, where it derives both heat -dn&'nwisLurc from the sur- rounding soil. This being the case, i.s it proba- ble that the shallow porous covering ol earth will confine the gasses thus rapidly evolved, un- til taken up by the spongioles of the plants 1 I think not. I furthermore believe, that in top dressing or spreading the manure on the hill,, there is also something lost by evaporation — though not as much as when placed under more favorable cir- cumstances for rapid decomposition, but, that muck more is gained or saved by the solvent pro- perties of rain water, which, after taking up all that has become soluble and in a suitable state for food to the plant, conveys it directly down to the roots, to be by them taken up and appropri- ated to its proper use. And in this way, as the manure, from its situation, becomes more slow- ly decomposed, its soluble parts will unite with, and be taken down by each successive shower. It seems most reasonable that, as decomposition would progress much more slowly in the latter, than in the former situation, there would be less loss by evaporation from a surlace application, and that more would be saved by solution from manure placed fzi'cre, than Irom that placed low the roots of the growing crop. If manure is placed under ihe hill, and so low that the air cannot have access to it, then 1 ad- mit there would be no loss by evaporation. Nejiher would tliere be any decomposition, and hence, not much benefit to the plant. But. by placing the manure on top, it would (even after being by tillage mixed with the surface soil) be within the influence of the atmosphere —the oxygen of which would, in combining with the woody fibre ol the manure, f^nn carbonic acid, “the first and most important food for young plants.” Liebeg says : “Humus acts in ihj same manner in a soil permeable to air as in air itself; it is a continued source of carbonic acid, which it emits very slowly. An atmos- phere of carbonic acid, formed at the expense ol the oxygen ol the air, surrounds every particle ol decaying hurnus. The cultivation ol land, bytilling and loosening the soil, causes a free and unobstructed access of air. An atmos- phere of carbonic acid is therefore contained in every fertile soil, and is the first and most im- portant food for the young plants which grow on it.” Again; “ By foosening the soil which sur- rounds young plants, we favor the access of air, and the formation of carbonic acid ; and, on the other hand, the quantity of their food is dimin- ished by every difficulty which opposes the re- newal of air.” Upon the whole, I cannot agree with “Coats- wood,” that manure “does not sink but evapo- rates;” although, as above slated, I believe something may be lost. I doubt much, whether the atmosphere steals so great a portion of our manure as is suspected by many. What does it, take? Carbonic acid? This gas, notwith- standing it is said to,be heavier than the atmos- phere, has been detected in every part of it, where its presence has been looked for ; yet its specific gravity, being greater than that of the atmosphere, it may, 1 think, be doubted whether \\. ever does, in its uncornbined state, rise from the earth into the air, unless driven off from a heal ed body, and in a greatly expanded form. The ammonia of manures may combine with car- bonic acid and form a volatile salt (spirits of hartshoin,) and in this way sometning may be lost; but ammonia in all its forms, is extremely soluble in water, and in this way, as is the case with carbonic gas when gradually formed, may be saved by rain and even dev. Liebig says, “ Liquid animal excrements, such as the urine with which the sol id excrements a re impregnated, contain the greatest part of theirammonia in the .'tale of salts, in a form, therefore, in which it has completely lost its volatility ; when present in this condition, not the smallest portion of the t-inmonia is lost to the plants ; it is all dissolved by water, and imbibed by their roots,” Thus we may conclude, that such salts of manures as are only soluble in water, are not likely to take wings and fly out of our fields, I have been a constant reader of Agricultural papers since 1829, when I commenced with Mr, Skinner’s eleventh volume of the “ American Farmer,” and have, as “ Book Farmers” are apt to do, experimented much with manures. I have applied manure in almost all the different ways i have seen recommended since the above men- tioned lime; and 1 am confident that I have de- rived more lasting benefit from surface applica- tions, to the corn crop e-pecially, than in any other nrode of applying it, be the modus operandi what it may. But, sir, the science of agricul- ture is onward, and we shall, 1 trust, learn all about the matter in dispute before long. We have new lights springing up almost daily to point out the way to that heretofore benighted and contemned class— the most useful andrafy indispensable of creation — the Agriculturist. One of the first Agricultural lecturers of the day (Prof. Johnston of Scotland) is of the opi- nion that manuie (its soluble salts) both sinks and rises in the soil ; and that, although the wa- ter, which holds it in solufion, does, in a dry time, evaporate from the surface, none of the salts do, but are there deposited, to be, by the next rain, again taken down. In this I have no doubt he is correct, and it so, tor obvious reasons, the surface application is the preferable one; because, after a rain, the water, with its treasure, would necessarily have to pass the roots in its descent before it could ascend. Whereas, if the manure was placed below the plant, the salts taken from it by the descending water, would not come in contact with the roots until brought there by the ascent of the water. And this time, in which the plant would be de- privedfof the benefit of the manure, might be, under certain circumstances, greatly protracted, viz; in a .seasr-n of continued rains, sufficient to prevent evaporation by keeping the surface moist, as the water Irom below will not ascend until the surface becomes dry. But at the risk of being tedious — for the bene- fit of those of your readers that may not have the work, (all ought to have it) — I beg leave to make, an extract from Prof. Johnston’s Lectures, part 2d, p. 428; “ Hence, from the proportion of soluble matter present at any one lime in the surface soil, we cannot safely pronounce as to the quantity which the whole soil is capable of yielding to the crop that may grow upon it. For when warm weather comes and the surface soil dries rapidly, then by capillary action the water rises from beneath, bringing with it the sulunle substances that exist in the subsoil through which it ascends. Successive portions of this water evaporate from the surface, leaving their saline matterbehind them. And as this ascent and evaporation goes on as long as the dry weather continues, the saline matter accumulates about the roots of the plants so as to put within their reach an ample supply of every soluble substance which is not really defective in the soil. * They (.sandy and porous soils) absorb the falling rains with great rapidity, and these carry down the soluble matters as they descend — so that when the soil becomes soaked, and tlie water begins to flow over its surlace, the saline matter, being already buried deep, is in little danger of being washed away.* On the return of dry weather, the wa- ter re-ascends from beneath and again diffuses the soluble ingredients through the upper soil.” In conclusion, sir, if any of vour respectable class ol readers wish to hear any thing more on the subject of “ Surface Applications,” 1 refer them to an article in the “ Farmer’s Register,” vol. 9, p. 628, over the signature of S.. and to p. 645, where the article is noticed by Mr. Ruf- fin, also to p. 677 for Mr. Garnett’s answer to the same article. 1 might refef them toother writers that have handled the subject much more ably than has been done by the bungling hand of Pendleton, S. C., June, 1845. G. S. ’This should encourage us to subsoil our laud before planting. Berkshire Hogs. Mr. Camak: — Sir — 1 promised you a while back that I would give you my method of ma- naging Berkshire hogs to profit. In compli- ance with my promise, I herewith forward you my prescription, without any other prelimina- ries than simply to say, 1 got in possession of some Berk'hire hogs about five years ago, and to be sure that 1 was not humbugged, I procur- ed them of diflTerenl slocks ; which, from their recommendations and appearances, 1 supposed were all of the choicest breeds. From that time until now I have experimented with them in all sorts of fashions. I have fed them bountifully on all sorts of grains, grasses, peas, potatoes, fruits, vegetables, meaiand slops, and I have fed them scantily; I have enclosed them in lots, and I have, let them run at large; I have fed them by themselves, and I have led them with other hogs; but in spite of my best person- al efforts, 1 have lost at least thirty of them to one of my common stock, notwithstanding I have had, all the while, five times as many of the common stock as I have had of the Berk- shire. They would die poor, and they would die fat ; they were subject lo all sorts of diseases, old and complicated, new and simple; they would take the mange, and they would become lousy ; they would die suddenly, and they would linger to death. What to do under the circumstances was of course a subject of much deliberation and in- quiry. Had these things happened to the com- mon stock, it would have been a matter of no great surprise ; but it was the Beikshire hogs that were thus affected ! To suppose them to be a humbug, as the signs seemed to indicate, would be to stake my judgment against the ge- nerally received opinion ol the people, and the positive declaration ol many good men. That wouldn t do ; I appealed to the sense of the en- lightened to learn the cause. None could tell. 1 wailed on the ignorant to know tie reason; but they were ever strangers to the case. Whil.'t oscillating between the various conjec- tures of a bewildered mind, and conjuring up schemes to reconcile experience with the opi- nions and sayings oi others wiser and better than myself, I was cheered by the reflection that there was one experiment more to be tried ; and that I would try it. I did so; and it acted like a charm. I noticed the precise day on which the sows had pigs ; if it was before or alter the change or full of the moon, I noted it careiully in my memory ; and as soon as the circum- stances and age of the pigs would allow of it, I altered all the boars, spayed all of the sows, , killed the hermaphrodites and knocked the old hogs in the head. Judging from the time since this method was adopted, and the effects produced by it upon the stock, I am fully persuaded that this breed will soon pass away, and ihe sooner the better. Seeing the excellent results produced by this practice upon my hogs, 1 concluded to extend the benefits of my genius and discovery to my neighbors’ stock. To this end, I gave orders to my folks, whenever they saw a stray Berkshire hog on any part of my land, they must hal'ow ‘Berkshire!’ as loud as they could squall. On hearing this word, as a signal, they must drop their business ol whatsoever kind it might be, hasten to the place whence the signal proceeded, and never stop, hands nor dogs, until they alter- ed or spayed the hog, as the case might be. Neu-born, June, 1845. John W. Pitts. Wheat Straw, a Substitute for Fodder. This is the season wheat is got out, and I re- «^ret to see the straw is thrown out to make ma- nir.e. I once had a meadow of thirty acres, producing good grass, (feather clover, arfd a broad leafed blue grass,) all of which made a very fine Quality of hay. To save the trouble of feeding, and to furnish shelter lor iny cattle, I put forks in the ground, and on them placed poles of such size and at such a distance apart that the cattle could draw THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 125 the hay down Irom between these poles, which were placed, by the height of the forks, so as to admit the cattle freely to walk under the frame, as 1 will call it. On this frame I stacked my hay. I stacked wheat straw in the same way, gene- rally on the poorest spots in the field. My cat- tle were turned in and permitted to feed them- selves, and at pleasure, to use the stacks as shel- ter,j)f which they soon learned the advantages. I found my cattle would use the stacks of hay as shelter, but would not eat any ol the hay, so long as the straw lasted, which proved to me, it they had proper taste, that the straw was more valuable than the hay. My horses and mules were furnished with hay alone, in the stable, on which they showed health, and usual thrift. This experiment for some years was observed, and regularly this preference was shown lor the straw by the cat- tie; and they improved and looked better while enjoying the teed on straw, than when they w'ere confined to hay alone, which was as soon as the straw was consumed. I have never tried to feed the straw alone to horses, but 1 would not hesitate to say, it is worth more than fodder. 1 ry it; save your own straw; it will feed and sustain cattle, horses and mules, and ultimately make manure more valuable than by the slovenly process of throw- ing out to rot. D , .Rkinharpt. Greenville, S. C., June, 1845. Hints to Advertisers. Mr. Camak : — It has occurred to me that a few hints to your advertising friends. Hazard, Dens- low & Webster, might not be amiss. The pro- priety of a purchase frequently depends upon the price of the article desired. I wish to procure a light subsoil plow, and 1 have heard one of my neighbors also express such a desire. Nov.' if the furrow sUce, the depth, and the price of each plow were stated I could easily determine which I should prefei". All this might be added without materially enlarging their advertisement. I would further remark, that a knowledge of the cost of transportation for such articles might fa- cilitate their introduction into the country. T doubt not that the above named gentlemen would profit by sending a few samples of their plows into the up country. A few such deposit- ed at some suitable place in your town, during the week of your approaching Commencement, would be formidable competitors for a place among the lions of the town. A friend could not ' be wanting in your flourishing place, who would cheerfully take the trouble to act as “ historian to the” lions, and sell them when curiosity was satisfied. If authority was given to make a pub- lic trial of them it would be still better. Your friend, Mr. B. H. Warren, of Augusta, might also have sold several Leicester bucks, if he had stated his price for them. Greene B. Haygood. Casulon, Clark county, June, ld45. Mixing Soils — Inquiries. Mr. Camak: — I live in the piny woods and the soil is light and sandy. Would clay taken from the ponds or rivet- swamp, and put broadcast over a soil of that sort, and plowed in, have any effect to fertilize it or to make it produce good crops'! How would swamp mud do'? That, however, is difficult to obtain in lame quantities ; for di- rectly you get through the mud and come to the clay. •And also, what effect would lime have — say Thomaston lime, such. as we can get in Savan- nah— by putting a spoonful or two in the hill every ■ year at the time of planting "I Re.spectful!y yours, N. Ashley. Ocmidgeeville, Telfair county, June, 1845. The Fairs — A Suggestion. Mr. Editor: — I see by the advertisement in your paper, that the fair of the “ Planters’ Club of Hancock County,” and of the “Agricultural Society of Bowling Green,” will take place on the same day. This certainly is in bad taste, as it will render it impossible for one man to exhi- 1 bit stock at both places. One I know, and there .may be others, who would like to exhibit at both fairs. Can you not recommend the Bowling Green Society to make some alteration in the time of holding their fair so as to avoid this clashing 7 They are the youngest cl ub and ought to yield if either should. Respectfully, A Friend to the Cause. Woodville, Greene county, July, 1845. ESSAY READ TO THE BURKE COUNTY AGRICULTURAL SO- CIETY, at its first meeting, according to appointment. BY PAUL DAVIDSON. On the importance of our pursuit I shall not dwell for a moment. We all feel it. All ac- knowledge its use, for not only the welfare, but the very existence of a civilized community de- pends upon it. Of the necessity of our improv- ing in this our vocation, we ourselves must be the judges. That this necessity exists, you have all acknowledged by subscribing to our constitu- tion. If there is any one thing more than another, which is cheering to the heart of the true patriot and philanthropist, the real lover of his countrv and her interest, it is the spirit of inquiry, and improvement in agricultural pursuits, which now seems to pervade.almost the whole land. This is truly encouraging, and, in my opinion, is a pres- age of better things and happier times. If in- deed there is any one v/ho does not acknowledge the necessity of improvement in our system of agriculture, he certainly. cannot be aware of the position he holds in comparison with agricultu- rists of a different section of our own country, much less with the more advanced state oi the ait in certain other countries. Even if we shduld admit that we have arrived at the greatest degree o^ perfection in the culti- vation of cotton, it would be but an unprofitable admission, and would prove at once the neces- sity of our diversilying our pursuits in other branches of agricultural industry, whereby, if vre derive no greater profits, we shall become more independent than is possible while we depend upon .a single staple for our income, and a for- eign market for our necessaries and convenien cies, many of which we can make much cheaper than those can who supply us. But before we attempt to strike out a new course of pur.suit, it wil; be necessary, to insure success, that we should obtain all the informa- tion in our powerin regard to the diff’erentbranch- es intended to be pursued. Then, with all the lights and guides which ancient experience and modern research have thrown in our way, we may “go ahead” with a good assurance of suc- cess. But without this we shall as certainly fail; for we are, many of us, in the condition of a mariner who has been all his life navigating a single sea, and sailing back and forth upon a single track, until want of trade compelled him to navigate other seas, and seek other ports to supply his -cargoes. Now, in order to insure safety and success, 4ie must get all the informa- tion extant, a^id procure all the maps and charts which relate to the course of his new route. — Without these precautions he will be in constant danger of being wrecked upon hidden leefs and quicksands. Now the planter who does not take all these precautions, upon commencing a new pursuit, will be in danger of meeting the most disastrous consequences, until the loss of seve- ral Clops, and the expense of a vast deal of la- bor shall have taught him, by experience, what he c&uld have learned for a few dollars, or per- •haps shillings. Heretofore, experience has been the only mode of obtaining information upon agricultural sub- jects. But this, though a sure, is a slow and of- ten expensive mode of arriving at the same re- sults, which the application of analysis will often lead to at once with equal certainty. Modern science and research have taught us that, by means of chemical analysis, we can at once as- certain not only the elements entering into the composition of the plant, but their quantity, and the kind of soil best adapted to its growth and the perfect development of its fruit; and als ) the kind of manure best adapted to the plant and soil. Now the fads developed by chemical research always accord with those ascertained by experi- ence— for facts never controvert each other ; and to prove this, it is only necessary to cite a case or two which are familiar to all. We all know that wood ashes lorm the very best ma- nure for a crop of cotton. Now chemical analy- sis shows us that the cotton plant and its fimit contain potash and lime, the lormer to a large amount. We further know that the soils best adapted to the raising of cotton, are those which have originally produced a growth of timber in- dicating that there was a large amount of potash and lime present in the soil, us oak, hickory, dog- wood, &c. And on the contrary, pine lands are far less suitable for the perfect development of that plant, and that though upon pine lands can be grown a stem of sufficient size, the fruit is al- ways wanting in a greater or less degree. We know, from every day’s observation, that bard wood timber produces a much greater amount of ashes than the softer woods: — for example, the beech and post oak, than the pine; and also, that their ashes are much richer in the alkalies. Now there are certain other circum- stances necessary lor a proper soil, yet the pre- sence of a sufficient quantity of the above named materials is absolutely essential. Nor does the fact that some rare spots of pine land are found that produce very good crops of eotton, contro vert, in the least, the general rule that cotton grows best on oak and hickory land. For al- though oak and hickory require a particular soil for their development, yet there is noihing in a 8 il adapted to their growth, which would prevent the long leafed pine from growing, as it sometimes does on such soils, very luxuriantly, until it is gradually displaced by the oak. Yet the contra- ry is not true, for oaks can never be produced in perfection upon soils which may be capable of producing a fair growth of pines. In ■folio wing out this train of observation, w e find that when a soil has become exhausted of the proper materials for producing cotton, it vrill not produce the ori- ginal growth of oak and hickory ; for w'hen an exhausted field is turned out, it shoots up a growth of ('Id field pines, which, you all know, are very deficient in alkalies a. d earthy matters, and therefore best suited to a soil exhausted of these principles. In fact the oki field pine re- quires so little of potash and lime for its growth, that an old field, after having sustained a crop of that growth for a series of years, accumulates sufficient of these principles, partly by absorp- tion, but msinly, I think, from the liberation of these salts from their insoluble combinations, through the action of the atmosphere and other causes, to render it again comparatively fertile for a few years, when it is again exhausted and again renewed in the same manner. This theory also explains why soils producing originally difierent varieties of the eanie plant, oak for exsmple, does not produce cotton and oth- er crops equally; for every experienced cotton planter in selecting his lands for that staple, will prefer the soil which has originally produced a growth of post oak rather than any other. Now the post oak contains the alkalies and alkaline earth before mentioned in larger proportions than any other speeies, and therefore indicates a soil rich in these elements of fertility ; while lands producing'the Spanish red oak are seldom fertile . any great length of time. Now any old lady in the country, accustomed to making soap, can tell the difference in these two varieties of oak, as regards the quantity of ashes produced ujion burning them. The latter yields a much smaller quantity than the former, and therefore indicates a soil much poorer in these elements. j\ow what is true in relation to one plant, is true also w'ith all, according to their varieties, and the ele- ments entering into their composition. Wheat and most grains contain, among their component parts, various salts, as the phosphates of lime, (which is the solid part of all bones,) mavnesia and soda, or potash. Now it matters not how rich a soil is in vegetable matter and every other substance, if it is deficient in any of these salts it M'ill not produce a perfect development. Nor is the quantity of an element contained in the grain or plant a criterion of its necessity, for although it may enter into the mass as but a very small part of the whole substance, yet it is not the less necessary that it should be present. When we survey the work of the mason and observe the small quantity of lime which he uses in pro- portion to the mass of the whole fabric, it would almost seem that it could be dispensed with; yet the building would be far from perfect without it. . It is just so with plants, and though the inor- ganic constifutents enter into their composition 126 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. a* .... in but very minute quantities, they are just as es- sential to its perfection as the vegetable matter which builds up the mass of the plant. And it is undoubtedly the lack of some of these elements that causes the rust and b ight in wheat in ce "tain localities, although the soil appears rich in all the constituents necessary tobuild up the frame v.’ork of the plant, and produces the stalk in great luxuriance, but not grain, or but very little. The same is true of the cotton plant; some soils producing a fine plant, as far as size is con- cerned, and but very little fruit. This is strik- ingly the case with most pine lands. Here there is evidently sufficient vegetable matter to pro- duce the frame, but a lack of some inorganic constituent to produce a full crop of fruit; where- as the contrary is the ease in .some of our soils which originally contained the inorganic materi- als in great abundance, so that there are suffi- cient of them remaining to produce an abundant crop of fruit, but the material (vegetable matter or humus) to build up the stalk is exhausted, so that although the soil produces muchfruit in pro- portion to the size of the plant, yet the stalk be- ing deficient in size the product is necessarily de- ficient. Now the deficiencies in both these cases are to be siipplied; and, according to the old method of cultu e, are to be supplied by an application of the same materials, to wit: the gleanings of the horse lot and the cow pen. These are very good in their place, but the attempt to supply two very different wants by the same material, is, at best, but a quackish application of means. — Would it not be far better to ascertain by analy- sis the deficiencies to be supplied, and the mate- rials necessary to supply those wants, so that we may be able to apply our labor and capital more properly, by suiting our means to the ends de- signed. than to continue blundering along, after the old empyrical mode of applying the same means to all ends, whereby we have so often been disappointed in the results. This is not only the teaching of reason, but al- so of economy ; for by adopting the above plan, we should be able to apply every thing just where it would be most wanted; and as nothing would be misapplied, nothirrg would be wasted. Now, my friends, nnless we arouse ourselves and shake off the lethargy which binds us to old customs, .and cea=^e to be content to carry a rock in one end of the bag to balance the pumpkin in the other end, because our fathers did so, and look into this matter deeply arid thoroughly, and take some steps, ay f some long strides, in the, i.mprovement of our avocation, we shall be soon left out of sight, in the rear of our .more enter- prising neighbors, and be reduced to even a greater degree of dependerce for our necessities and comforts', than at present. But under the old system we shall soon be reduced to a point that will not enable us to purchase all the little eonveniencies which our northern friends are al- v.'ays so ready to furnish us with while our money lasts, tilt when that is gone, credit soon follows. Then, if not before, shall we see the error of our ways, and set about making those improvements which ha\e already placed our neighbors so far before us. Improve your T,aiid9. We take the following sensible article (says the Mobile Register,) from an old number of the Alabama State Intelligencer. It was co- pied very gene.'ally by the Southern Press some eight or ten years ago, but it has lost none of' its interest, or its aprlicabiiity to modes of cul- tivation among our Planters. We think we re- cognise in it the pen of one of our most intelli- gent and practical cultivators; one who has done more by precept and example to advance the interests of agricultural and horticultural industry than any man in the State. If to produce the greatest quantity possible of any article or article.s, from a given quantity of land, and in the process of production to increase the tertility ot the soil in a great degree, is the acme of agricultural pursuits, it may be fairly advanced that to cultivate a large surface of land, and by the mode of cultivation, for a small production, and with a great destruction of the productive properties of the soil, must be the acme of absurdity. If there is any available process, that by the additional expense of one halfot the additional production, will add one hundred per cent, to the product of labor bestowed on land, the pro- cess ought to be adonted for interest’s sake; but if the one-lourth left is added to the increase of the productive quality given to the land, it then claims trora every rational being who cultivates the soil, an immediate attention. It is astonish- ing, that the land wearing out so rapidly, as we often see it, does not startle every cultivator, who is but one degree removed from an idiot. If the people ct the northern part of the United States, were to go as honestly to work in the destruction ot their land, in their mode ot culti- vation as we do, we should soon hear melancho- ly news of their situation, in lieu ot that agricul- tural prosperity which their land and labor se- cures them. When a farmer in that section of the Union sits down on a tract ot land previously worn out by some squatter, (for the'breed is not worn out there, nor w'ill it be, as long they hear of a Tex- as,) with not a toot to “clear” he feels n® great uneasiness. He can tell by his mode of pro- ceeding almost precisely the increase of crops he will get and the time it W'ill require to get his land “ into heart,” for the production of se- venty or eighty bushels of corn to the acre; and although he live in the midst ot a thick settled country, wdth not one of the available means of fertilizing his land, which we Southerners have around us, he is easy, while we should think of no other resource than Arab like to move to a “new range.” Bat the Northern farmer who cannot w'orship cotton, tor it is not found amongst his household gods, it jie is a judicious cultivator, he goes with all his energies into provision crops — to the production ot every ar- ticle ; in this way his situation will admit him to expect rationally a remuneration for his labor, for in this course he secures the thing called ma- nure, of the best kind, and in securing that, he findo the key to agricultural success. This fact allows him to “settle,” and he finds he is not compelled to run away from his land every ten years, which has been running away daring that period from him, he giving it the start. But it there is any process ot cultivation in the pursuit of which the improv'ement ot the soil will pay for the extra labor, and give to the laboring man the whole extra crop, 1 must re- peat that there must be idiotism in not availing ourselves of it. •Nov.', in cultivating land, we know that there is a positive expenditure of capital, animals and gear, carriages, provisions and labor. If one half of most of these can be made to produce the same result that the whole usually produce, there is then a positive saving of capital, wear, tear, provisions and labor, of one half. For instance, say twenty-five acres is made to produce the same amount that fitly usually does, and that one man and one horse is em- ployed in the cultivation ; the capital expended on one man and one horse, a set of gears, seed lor twenty-five acres, saving of the production, cleaning, clearine-, fencing, and keeping up the enclosure, &c. &c., is actually saved. And if the planter’s resources enable him to work the fifty acres, as it ought to be, and to obtain the production for his labor that he ought to obtain, the conclusion is doubly conclusive in favor of the better or more productive system. For in spite ot ignorance, intentional or real, it remains a truth strong as holy writ, that twenty- five acres ot manured or enriched land are as easily tended as the same number of acres of a caput/mortuum or impoveiished soil. That a judicious manuring: system would bring about the result contended tor, is as cer- tain as that there are a Northern and Southern section ot the Union. If ihe.se views are correct, then it follows that to insure a successful agricultural pursuit, ma- nure is almost every thing, and the mode of making it, to the greatest advantage, is to the planter ot incalculable importance. In the whole circle of common sense, no fact is better established than that if you will take an acre of land, that will produce ten bushels oi corn to the acre in its natural state, and manure it, the pro- duct will as readily become thirty. Yet if you will look at it, the quantity of “stuff,” and ac- tual manure, wasting around the plantations, and especially in the lanes on almost every plantation in the country, you would be obliged to conclude that idiots were quite common, or that this fact is not believed, or that rt was not known. But the fact still remains that land can be made to yield Ihiee, nay four times the quantity of many agricultural productions, by a judi- cious application ot manure, combining the materials judiciously that compose it. From land that would not give more than ten bushels of corn per acre, T have grown fifty, with the aid of cotton seed alone. Planter. The Dairy. From the Salem Gazette, We extract from the report and statements, presented by the committee of the Essex Agri- cultural Society, on the dairy, such portions as will be most interesting to our readers : The committee on the dairy, in presenting their report, would remark that the first prere- quisite in making good butter, is to have good qows. And to be sure in this respect, every far- mer should test the value of each cow by milk- ing and preserving her milk separately, and no- ting carefully the quantity required to make a pound of butter. By a very little attention in this way, it may be readily ascertained whether a cow is worth keeping for dairy purposes. Cases have occurred where a cow has been kept for years with several others and their milk put together; on using it separately, it was found that butter could not be made from it. Thus, for the want of attention in this respect, much loss may be sustained. There are un- doubtedly many co-ws kept which add little or nothing to the value of the dairy. The kind and quantity of salt used, is of much consequehee. The Liverpool bag salt should be rejected; it contains impurities, and will not preserve butter. Rocksalt perfectly pulverized, and three-fourths of an ounce used to a pound cf butter, will preserve it well. Process of mailing butler by those who gained the Society's Premiums. By Geo. W. Dodge. — The milk is strained in- to tin pans, where it stands from thirty-six to forty-eight hours, when it is skimmed and the cream put into tin pails, standing on the bottom of a cool cellar. A little salt is added to the cream which is frequently stirred. We churn twice a week. When the bnttercomes, the but- termilk is thoroughly worked out, and the butter salted with an ounce to the pound. After twenty-four hours it is again worked and weigh- ed. By Mrs. Abi Worcester. — The cream was churned twice a week, then the butter was wash- ed in cold water. One ounce ot fine butter salt was used to one pound of butter, well-worked in. Alter it had remained twenty-four hours, i£ was worked over and packed down solid in a stone pot and covered with strong brine. By Paul Pillsbwy. — The milk is strained in- to tin pans and stands thirty-six hours. The cream is then taken off and put into a tin firkin, and kept until it is ready to be churned, which is twice a week. The butter is well rinsed in cold water and then salted with one ounce of salt to a pound of butter. In about twenty-four hours it is worked again and packed down and kept on the bottom of the cellar, covered with fine salt. The feed of the cows was a common pastille. By Allen W. Dodge. — Treatment of milk and cream before churning: Strain the milk in tin pans, place them in a cool cellar for the cream to rise; when sufficiently risen, which will be according to the weather, separate the cream from the milk, and the day previous to churning k»wer the cream, in tin pails or cans, into a well, in order to become cool. By this means, the butter will come of a hard consistency, and no THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 127 difficiilty experienced m working it thoroughly. Mode of churning: Rinse the churn avith cold water over night. The churn used is Gall’s — various other kinds have been tried, such as the barrel-churn and rocking-churn, but with less favorable results. The time occupied in churn- ing, when the cream is cold, is greater than if it was not subjected to the process of cooling, but the quality and condition of the butter am- ply repay for the time and labor expended upon it. Cnurn once a week. The method ot freeing the butter from the milk is by thoroughly working the butter with the hands. Rinsing it with coot water in the churn, we have seldom practised, Irom the con- viction that the butter is injured by this process. The day alter being worked over, it is put into lumps of one pound each, for market. Sailing of the butter: Use the ground rock salt, and salt to suit the taste. Add no saltpetre, sugar, or other substances. By Nathaniel Felton. — The milk is strained into tin pans ; it stands from thirty-six to forty- eight hours in a cool cellar, when the cream is taken off, put into tin pails, and stirred every day. We churn once a week; during the warmest weather the cream is placed in the well about twelve hours before churning. After it is churned the buttermilk is thoroughly worked out, and the butter is salted with three-quarters of an ounce to the pound. Alter standingabout an hour it is again worked and weighed, each pound separately. By Benjamin Boynton. — The milk is strain- ed into tin pans. It stands forty-eight hours in a cool cellar, when the cream is taken off, put into a pot, and stirred once a day. We churn once a week. After the butter is churned the buttermilk is turned from it, and water is added twice, and churned to separate the buttermilk from it. One ounce of salt is used to a pound of butter, which is worked twice after. From the Mobile Daily Advertiser. Raising Stock. in the present depressed condition of the planting interest in Alabama, it is astonishing that the farmers do not direct more ot their at- tention to the raising of stock. There is no por- tion of the United States better calculated for various kinds of stock than Alabama. Horses, mules, cattle, sheep, all thrive well, and our mild climate is more congenial to the hog, par- ticularly, than the cold west or north. We have mere facilities for raising hogs than Kentucky. They can be raised in South Alabama withle.ss labor and less expenditure. Will this be doubt- ed by our farmers, or denied by the people of the northwest'? If so, I trust that some of our wealthy farmers will make the e.vperiinent, and it will be found that fifty hogs can be raised in Alabama with as little labor and expenditure as thirty in Kentucky. Let us see what are the facilities ot the two sections of country : — Ken- tucky has her corn, artichokes, oats, rye and grass pastures — while Alabama has her corn, peas, artichokes, oats and rye for pastures, equalling the advantages of Kentucky. Ala- bama produces in addition, the ground-pea and sweet potatoe, which gives an advantage over all the products of Kentucky as food for hogs. Let us nov/ estimate the value and profits of a farm in the two sections of country employing fen hands — the farm stocked for operation. In Kentncky it would require a landed pro- perty of 326 acres, which would cost at S15 per acre, 4,875 dollars. The ten hands would cost five thousand dollars. Capital invested, nine thousand eight hundred and seventy five dollars. In this farm there would be three hundred acres of open land, twenty-five remaining wood for convenience. The three hundred acres of im- proved land would be cultivated in the follow- ing proportions : fifty acres in corn, one hun- dred and twenty-five in oats and rye, one hun- dred and twenty-five in clover and blue grass, and twenty in artichokes. This would be the labor of ten hands, which would only provide food sufficient to raise three hundred hogs of one year old. The three hundred acres of blue glass, clover, oats and rye would receive 300 pigs and pasture them from the 1st of May until the 1st of October, ft would then take all the artichokes and the corn that would be made to feed the three hundred hogs from the 1st October to the 1st May — seven months, (part of the corn having to be fed to the pigs while on pasture.) The hogs now one year old would weigh one h undrecl and fifty pounds each, and would make 4,500 pounds of pork, which at $2 50 cents per hundred pounds, would bring to the owner ®l,i2'2, sold in Kentucky. In Alabama it would require a landed pro- perty of the same number of acres as that of Kentucky. Let us now see if there is any diffe- rence in the profits of the capital invested. The 325 acres of land calculated lor a farm of this description can be purchased in Alabama at S'8 dollars per acre, which would make a cost of twenty-six hundred dollars. The ten ne- groes cost the same as in Kentucky — five thou- sand dollars. The cost of the land and negroes in Alabama would be seven thousand six hun- dred dollars — 2,750 dollars less than the outfit in Kentucky. Of the three hundred and twen- ty-five acres, there would be three hundred acres in culture — forty acres in corn and cow peas, one hundred and twenty-five acres in sweet po- tatoes, twenty-five acres in ground peas, and one hundred in rye and oats. This would fur- nish food sufficient for seven hundred head of hogs. The twenty-five acres in ground peas would receive seven hundred pigs the 1st of September, and furnish them with food for two months, ending on the first ot Novem-, ber. The one hundred and twenty-five acres in sweet potatoes would yield, at two hun- dred and fifty bushels per acre, thirty one thou- sand two hundred and fifty bushels, which would alone feed the seven hundred head of hogs, one year, allowing four quarts per day for each hog, which would be more than sufficient food for them one year. The corn, rye and oats would be a reserve, and t^e Alabama farm of three hundred acres in cultivation, would yield seven hundred head of hogs of one year oiu, weighing one hundred and fiftv pounds each — making one hundred and five thousand pounds of pork, which at three dollars per hundred, would bring to the owner three thousand one hundred and fifty dollars. Showing a proceed of two thou- sand and twenty-eight dollars more than the farm in Kentucky, with a capital of two thou- sand seven hundred and fifty dollars less than was employed in Kentucky ! The above is made upon the supposition that the hogs are to be kept in an enclosure, and not suffered to run at large, to be dependent entire- ly on the product of the farm for sustenance. I have made the above statements upon my own experience and information. The subject w'ill be continued. Alabama. Horticulture. BY MRS. LYDIA H. SIGOURNEY. If the admiration of the beautiful things of nature has a tendency to soften and refine the character, the culture of them has a s:ill more powerful and abiding influence. It takes the form of an affection ; the seed which we have nursed, the tree of our planting, under whose shade we sit wfith delight, are to us as living, loving friends. In proportion to the care we have bestowed on them, is the warmth of our regard. Thev are also gentle and persuasive teachers of His goodness, who causeth the sun to shine, and the dew to distil ; who forgets not the tender buried vine amid the snow’s and ice of winter, but bringelh forth the root longhidden from the eye ot man, into vernal splendor, or au tumnal fruitage. The lessons learned among the works of na- ture are of peculiar value in the present age. The restlessness and din of the railroad princi pie which pervades its operations, and the spirit of accumulation which threatens to corrode eve- ry generous sensibility, are modified by the sweet friendship of the quiet plants. The toil, the hurry, the speculation, the sudden reverses which mark our own times, beyond any which have preceded them, render it particularly salu- tary lor uslo heed the admonition of our Saviour, and take instruction from ihe lilies of the field, those peaceful denizens of the bounty of hea- ven. Horticulture has been pronounced by medi- cal men, as salutary to health, and to cheerful- ness of spirits ; and it would seem that this theory might be sustained, by the happy coun- tenances of those who use it as a relaxation from the excitement of business, or the exhaus- tion of study. And if he, who devotes his lei- sure to the culture of the works of nature, bene- fits himselt — he who beautifies a garden for the eye of the community, is surely a public bene- factor. He instils into the bosom of the man of the world, panting with the gold fever — gentle thoughts, which do good like a medi- cine He cheers the desponding invalid, and makes the eye of a child, brighten with a more intense happiness. He furnishes pure aliment for that taste w'hich refines character and muUplies simple pleasures. To those who earn their substance by laboring on hisgrounds, he stands in the light of a benefactor. The kind of industry which he promotes, is favor- able to simplicity and virtue. With one of the sw'eetest poets of our native land, we may say, “ Praise to the sturdy spade, And patient plow, and the shepherd’s simple crocks And let the light mechanic’s tool be hailed With honor, which increasing by the power ■ 'Gt long compantonshi p. the laborer’s hand. Cuts off that hand, with all its world of nerves, From a too busy commerce with the heart.” Cribbing, or Crib-Biting. As we have had a number of communica- tions on this subject, we give our readers an ex- tract from the celebrated Youatt, whose book on “the horse,” edited by J. S Skinner of Balti- more,is a valuable production. Yoiiatt dees not seem to consider this cribbing a disease, but a habit rather, though he says, “the cribbing horse is more subject to thecolic than otherhor- ses, and to a species difficult of treatment and frequently dangerous.” He says, “ It is one of those tricks wfiiich are exceedingly contagious. Every coixipanion of the crib-biter, in the same stables, is iikelv to acquire the habit, and it is the most inveterate of all habits. The edge of the manger w ill in vain be lined w'lth iron, or with sheepskin co- vered with tar or aloes, or any other unpleasant substance. “In defiance of the annoyance which these may occasion, the horse will persist in his at- tack on Ihe manger. A strap buckled tightly round the neck bv compressing the w'indpipe is the best means of preventing the possibility of this trick, but the strap must be constantly worn, and its pressure is too apt to produce a worse af- fliction, viz., an irritation in the windpipe, which terminates in roaring. “ Some have recommended turning out for five nr six months, but this has never succeeded except with a voting horse, and then rarely. — The old crib-biter will employ the gate for the same purpose as the edge ol his manger, and we have often seeja him galloping across a field lor tRe mere object of having a gripe at a rail — Medicine will be altogether thrown away in this ease. “The only remedy is a muzzle wu'th bar*? across the bottom sufficiently wide to enable the animal to pick up his corn and to pull his hay, but not to grasp the end of the manger. If this is worn for a considerable period, the horse may be tired of attempting that which he cannot ac- complish, and for a while forget the habit, but in a majority of cases the desire of crib-biting W’ill return with the power of gratifying it. ‘ The causes of crib-biting are various, and some of them beyond the control of the proprie- tor of the horse, ft is offpii the result of imita- tion, but it is more frequently the consequence of idleness. The high fed and spirited horse must be in mischief if he is not usefully em- ployed, Sometimes, but we believe not often, 128 THE SOUTHERN CU1.TIVATOR. ii is pro.iuced by partial starvation whether in a bad straw-yaru or from unpalatable food. An occasional cause of crib-biting is the frequent custom of srooins, even when the weather is not severe, of dressing them in the stable. The horse either c-^tches at the edge of the manger, or at that of the partition on either side, it he has been turned, and thus he forms the habit of laying hold of these substances on every occa- sion.” Agriculture. It has been well said that he who has domin- ion over an acre of land, and rescues it from barr mness, and covers it with a smiling har- vest, has more of virtuous sell-applause than the conqueror of large territories, laid waste and desolate. The honorable occupation of cultivating the soil, however, appears to have but lew charms for some 01 the present wise generation, even among those who, from early habits and education, should be well fitted for the employment. There is too great a desire to become mei- chani.s, traders, or speculators; and hence our large cities are at times overrun with persons in the “mercantile line,” forsooth — who are every way unqualified for such pursuits; and even it they are qualified lor such undertakings, the trade of the country is inadequate to the sup- port of such numbers, as would willingly turn their back upon the farm, and embark on the sea of wild speculation, or flee from a life of 'manual labor. This is an evil which requires a remedy, and the remedy must be found in ihe farmers them- selves. They should appreciate the blessing- of an Agicultural lile, and teach their sons and daughters to revere it — to love it as the occupa- tion which is best calculated todevelope the e.x- cellence of human nature, and' secure the hap- piness of human beings. There is no error so pernreious, as that of sending young men, fresh Ironi the country, pure in principles and inexperienced, to reside in a populous city, and become familiar with its pleasures, its vices, and its e.'ctravagance.s. What inducement can an honest farmer Aaue, thus to banish his children from independence, industry and comfort! 1 have already said, that of all the characters of which our country can boast, there is none more elevated than a well- informed and sensible farmer — one who has locked into books — who knows the world, his country, and its laws. It is pleasant to see such a man holding the plow, or mantully swinging the scythe, or plying the flail, in order to cull the rich treas- ures of Ceres. And when his labors require rest — see him, reclining beneath a shady tree, or seated on a bundle of grain — talk of the an- cient Republics of Greece and Rome — detail historical incidents — and expatiate onihe gov- ernment and institutions of his own country. .Such a man is useful to himself and a treasure to the nation to which he belongs. If we change the scene, we shall perhaps find him in the halls of legislation, exerci-ing his practical good sense, to allay the fury 0] healed politicians — aiding to give laws tothe State — and firmly sus- taining the principles of public policy, which are suggested by a well-disciplined mind, and a keen sense of duly'. I can hardly' conceive bow a parent can be willing that his son should forego- such a life of usefulness, and send him to a large city, to pass a life oi indolence —exposed on every hand to temptation — without a hope of profit or advance- ment. And yet we shall find that many of the shops and retail stores in our cities, are filled by young men— the sons of tarmers, who cherish a contempt for the occupation of their fathers— and w'ho, eager to escape, from a life of salutary labor, abandon a certain road to character and independence — and shufile along through ithe world without any prospect of being nsel'u to society, or beneficial to themselves. — [fl/r. Sleeper's Address at Worcester^ COMTEHTS OF THIS HUMBER. ORIGINAL PAPERS. Agricultural Educatirrn page 122 All Independent .Man ‘‘ 121 Cattle, improved breed of “ 121 Essay, read before the Burlte County Agricul- tural Society, by Paul Davidson “ 125 Fair of the Bowling Green Society —Sugges- tion to “ 125 Hogs, Bei kshire “ 124 Hints to Advertisers “ 125 l.azy Fever, cure for “ 122 Manure, on the application of “ 1-2.3 Manures, evaporation of— Ben-.t’ da Grass.. .. . “ 123 Mixed soils — Inquiries “ 125 Mr. Prinlice’s sale “ 121 Prof. Shepard’s Analyses “ 121 Soils, improvement of “ 120 Sugar for Manure “ 121 Season, the 121 Sheep and t\’ool “ ]23 Table of the Weather “ 122 Wheat Straw, a substitute for Fodder “ 124 SELECTIONS, ESTR.’CTS, &C. Agiiculture pjge 128 Celery, culiivaiion of *. 115 Cotton Culture, report of ihe Committee of the Barn well Agi iculiural Society “ 115 Cribbing, or crib-biting “ 127 Dairy, ihe n 1-25 Electricity and Agriculture “ 117 Gov. Hammond’s Report “ II4 Hints to Housekeepers “ 119 Horse, the “ US Horlicnltiire. by Mrs. Sigourney “ 127 Horticultural Outline “ 116 Improve your lands “ 126 Lecture of Prof. Johnston — Agricultural In- struction in Schools “ 111} Shepard’s Analyses of Colton Wool, Colton iSeed, Indian Corn, and iheSweet^Yam) Po- idlo 117 Suggestions to Southern Planters “ HQ Stock, raising “ 1-27 i'o preserve milk n 117 Useful directions « 1-22 GAaSgSKIV F5I31xl> SEEDS. A GENERAL assortment of iresh and genu- ine Garden and Field Seed, among which are the following ; Red and white clover. Blue and green grass. Rye and orchar-d do Timothy and herds do Millet and Lucerne do Seed corn of every valna- Buckwheat & potato oats. Seed wheat, [ble variety Kept constantly on hand by the subscriber, all o which are offered for sale at very mixlerate prices. -All orders, by mail or otherwise, executed with neat ness and despatch. Wm Haines, Ja., 1 No. 2-32, Broad-street, Augusta, Ga. 'FUigNEP SEED. A SUPPLY ol the following varieties of fresh Turnep Seed, just received, viz: Yellow Sweedish or ruta baga, very fine for stock, Large globe turnep, *• While flat do “ Hanover or white ruta baga do “ Norfolk do For sale in quantities to suit purchaser 1 V/si. Haines, Jr., Broad-st. }Fine for table use. AGRICUETUK ASx I U PEEITIEr«TS. Hazard, denslow & webster, Savannah, Geo., neat the City Hotel, Dealers in paints, oils, window GLASS, GUNPOWDER, SHOT, PAPER, AND AGRICULTURAL IMPLEMENTS. In addition to their usual slock of the above named articles, the subscribers have, within the last year, made large additions to their assortment of .Agricul- tural Implements, and now offer to planters a greater variety than any other establishment in the Southern country; amongst w’hich may be found the following articles, viz : PLOWS. Yankee cast iron. No. 10, 11 12 and 20 Plows. Dagon, or Connecticut wfought No. 1, 2 and 3 do Allen pattern, do Ruggles. Nourse i. This applies to the largest trees as well as to the smallest herbs. 365. But as it is impossible to take plants out of the earth without destroying or injuring the spongioles, the evil consequences of such acci- dents must be remedied by the hindrance of evaporation. 366. Transplantation should, therefore, take place only when plants are torpid, and vvhen their respiratory organs (leaves) are absent; or, if they never lose those organs, as evergreens, only at seasons when the atmosphere is periodi- cally charged with humidity for some conside- rable time. 367. Old trees in which the roots are much injured, form new ones so slowly, that they are very liable to be exhausted of sap by the ab- sorption of their very numerous young buds be- fore new spongioles can be formed. 368. The amputation of all their upper ex- tremities is the most probable prevention of death ; but in most cases injury of their roots is without a remedy. 369. Plants in pots being so circumstanced that the spongioles are protected from injury, can, however, be transplanted at all seasons, without any dangerous consequences. Good and Bad Farming. From the Western ttultivator. Mr. Hatch: — On presenting myself as a can- didate for admission into the society of your numerous and able correspondents, I have con- cluded to conform to the fashion of the age, and give a bit of my “ experience,” as a sample of my qualifications for the place desired. It runs as follows : In one of my excursions in the central part of this State during the past summer, I met with a little incident, that has since had a very benefi- cial effect on my mind, and I will tell it to your readers, hoping that it may have the like effect on them. ’Twas a hot sultry day in the mouth of Au- gust. f had travelled long and hard, through an open country, that was here and there inter- spersed with large, ragged looking farms, with broken down fence-, slovenly cultivation, roof- less hovels, old hats, coats, frocks and all sorts of rags protruding from the broken w'indow's, with dirty, ignoranl-lookinglittle urchins, in al- most every state, approaching to entire nudity, playing along the road. All betokened shilt- iessness and improvidence in the extreme, which formed a sad contrast to some in the land that gave me birth, and caused me to look for- ward M'ith sou'e anxiety for a place where I might have a reasonable prospect ol procuring a ntspectable meal, and enjoy ingan hour’s agree- able discourse w'ith some of my fellows. About 1 o’clock P. M. 1 espied at a short dis- tance to the right of the road, a small cottage looking building, standing in an improvement of some thirty or forty acres, surrounded, divided and subdivided, with neat, substantial picket fences, with a gate in front of the house, open- ing into an ample door-yard, the first gate and door-yard I had seen that day. Along the entire line of fence stood, some ten feet apart, a row ol locust, balm of gilead and other trees, of four or five years thrifty growth. A strip of the same kind, about twenty rods long and ten wide, was planted on the west side of the house and garden, forming a thrifty little grove, that would soon shield the owners alike from the chilly blasts and summer’s sun ; with a small orchard of different kinds of fruit trees large enough to bear, on the next side of the house. All of which 1 discovered in half the time that it takes me to write it, and it formed such a no- ble contrast to the cheerless abodes that I had just passed, I could not resist the temptation to dismount, and apply for refreshment. I walked up to the passage in fr-mt of the house, in the cool shade of which sat a man about thirty years of age, reading a periodical of some kind, by whom I was received with a frankness and ur- banity of manners, that plainly bespoke intelli- gence and good breeding. Old grey was soon deposited in a small frame horse barn, the cool shade of which, with the sweet smelling new made hay must have made him think of “the days of Auld Langsyne.” Returning to the house, I was scon engaged in agreeable conversation with my host and his ac ■ complislied lady, (that the hearty meal scaice interrupted,) in the course of which 1 learned the following facts. About six years previous (being just marri- ed) and without much experience in agricultu- ral matters, he emigrated to that place, purcha- sed eighty acres of land, and commenced mak- ing a farm, amid the evil prophesyings of nearly all his neiehbors. Some thought him too inex- perienced in such matters; some thought his farm too small— for, said they, “ there’s no use of trying to gain a living off of less than tM’o hundred acres, for vvith all our labor and experi- ence we can scarce make both ends meet, so he will starve to death on that little patch, that’s certain.” Othets thought he spent too much time in reading, for, said they, “ alihough he is up in tolerable season in the morning, yet he spends all the middle of the day with his books, he is a complete book worm.” Others thought he spent tco much time in setting out trees, working in the garden, making flower beds, &c. For, said they, “ its no use planting an orchard, it won’t be large enough to bear m"ch in our day, and if it would I don’t believe this countiy is very good for fruit; but at all events, them are locust, cottonwood, balm of gilead, &c., will be of no use, for they wont never bear nnthins no how.” In short, they looked upon his maiden attempt at Horticulture as supreme- ly ridiculous. But notwithstanding all this, he had succeed- ed beyond his most sanguine anticipations, and now enjoyed comfort and compe'ence. For, said he, “although I have under cultivation but about forty acres, that is as much as I can tend well, and I really think that I get more profit from that than my reighbors do from four times as much, cultivated in their careless way. And as to the orchard, by keeping it clean and well loosened around the trees, it is now beginnir, to bear, though only four years old ; I have also plenty of cherries, plums, peaches, cuiranis, gooseberries, raspberries, &c.; and my neigh- bors begin to a visit with us once in a while, to partake of such varieties in these parts. They begin to suspect too, that this country is tolerable good for fruit, if it was only planted; and some of the more enterprising ones are thinking seriously of planting orchards of their own, after having now lost s jme ten years, since the settlement ot their farms. “ Then there are the ornamental trees, that I was to get no profit trom. By loosening the earth around the roots twice each season, they now take care of themselves and afford a tole- rable shade to my calves and sheep in the mid- dle of the day, whilethe animalsgenerally here- abouts are puffing and blowing the little flesh away, that they have been able to accumulate in feeding lime. Then they cost so little, I have planted by odd spells, when f should have been doing little else, ard I would not now take a silver dollar apiece for them, though they never cost over five cents. In fact I cannot be- lieve there is another improvement on my farm, that pays so well for so small an investment, as these same trees.” Thus he probably would have gone on for half an hour at least, about his hen-roosts, pig- geries, sheds, stables, gates, gardens, &c., (tc. Each of which occupied its appropriate place, had not my impatience to know how he came to have ail this knowledge, interrupted him. He at once stepped to a small book shelf, and laid his hand on a large pile of agricultural pa- pers, among which the Western Cultivator and Prairie Farmer occupied a conspicuous place. “ These,” said he, “are the direct source of my success. I came here as ignorant as any ‘sucker’ in all this Egyptian part of our State, and probably should have remained so, had not a judiciovs friend advised me to take two or three well conducted agricultural papers. 1 took them, read them, and practised fromjiheir suggestions; by which I have stored my mind with much valuable information. During rainy days, long winter evenings and the middle of hot days in summer, (wdiile my neighbors have spent their time in idleness and jesting of my folly,)! have been taking lessons from the best agriculturists of the age, tvhich, aside from the pleasure, has proved a valuable investirient in dollars and cents, and while they have bi en delving with an old-fashioned hoe or axe, or scratching their ground with a plow ill adapt- ed to the soil, the information thus acquired has enabled me to procure belter articles, that have saved much time, panence and profit. In short, Rr all that I have around me that is not common in these parts, I am indebted to these papers, for they not only give the needed practical information, but what is worth full as much, they are a great incentive to action.” Well, well, thought I, if this is the book farm- ing against which I have heard £0 much said, would to God all were book farmers in the land ; and 1 resolved lorlhwiih to become one myself. B. Smith. Mad Itch. — The effect of cattle following hogs that are fed on green corn, cut up and thrown to them when in the roasting ear state, is very fatal. The bogs will chew the corn- stalk and extract all the sap, and then throve it out. These fibres, thus thrown out, with the sap extracted, will be eaten voraciously by the cattle. Itcontainsno nutriment to give fernien- tatinn to enable the animal to ruminate; and it thus lays dormant and inactive in the manifolds or stomach; becomes perfectly compact and un- digestable— creates a lever, and in the end de- stroys the animal. “ I have lost many fine cat- tle in this way,” says Gov. Vance ol Ohio, “ and have never been able to save one thus af- flicted. The entire symptoms are similar to what is called the ‘ mad itch,’ which I have no doubt is created by the same cause, by taking in indigestible inaiter, incapable of fermenta- tion, and rumination.” THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 131 Crops require to be Fed as well as Animals. From the Ohio Cultivator. In the first settlement ol this country, the do- mestic animals found food growing spontane- ously in the prairies and fore'ts, and they lived almost entirely 'vithout the aid of their ovvners. As the country became more populous, and the animals had areatly increased, this spontaneous food became exhausted, and they had to be led by the hand of man. When the soil was first reclaimed from the forest, Vae crops obtained their iooA for a number of years from the abundance of vegetable matter which had been accumulating in the soil, as well as from the inorganic substances which had been brought there by natural causes. But in a tew years, by a constant drain upon the soil, without making any recompense, this spon- taneous food which nature had provided, has become principally exhausted ; and it is now as much the interest of the tanner to feed his crops as it is to feed his animals. “I do teed mv crops,” says the Practical Farmer — “ I haul out stable manure and straw, and 1 sometimes plow in clover, and put my land in first rate order before I sow my crops.” “ Very vvell,” says Science, ” this is ail right, so far as it goes, and I grant one in a hundred may do this; but 1 should like to be able to make this statement in ‘inverse proportion,’ that there shall be but one in a hundred who does not do it.” ” But, Mr. Practical Farmer, there is another matter connected with feeding your crops that i wish to press upon your attention, which is this —ft is as important to feed your cre/js with the kind of food most suitable to their ‘ digestive or- gans,’ as it is that of animals. Did you ever think of this? We do not feed hogs on hay; neither do we give pork to our horses ; but we are, nevertheless, careful to give enough to keep them alive, and to cause the animals to thrive and increase, and, at the same time, we avoid giving them so much as to surfeit or foun der them.” “ After all the pains I take,” says the Practi- cal Farmer, ” 1 cannot raise good wheat ; when I sow it on my land without manure, it is struck with rust; the berry shrivels, and I do not get half a crop. And then 1 go to carting on manure, and my wheat all goes to straw, falls down fiat on the ground, and has no grain worth the labor of saving; and so I turn my hogs into the field to get what few grains they can find. It is useless tor me to try to raise wheat on my farm; it is either too rich or too poor. Iff put on manure the straw grows too rank, and it is too weak to stand up; it 1 sow without manure, the heal and moisture strike it with rust. [ must go to raising some othercrop.” ” Stop, neighbor,” says Science, “ here I have n book that will tell you something about rais- ing wheat. I think it is probable that you have been feeding your hogs r n hay, or else you have been giving pork to vour horses.” Prac. Far. Och 1 go away with your book. Do you think f want any ot your hook farming about me? 1 have been a practical farmer ah my life, and in eabiv times I used to raise the best wheat in the country, without or liioefa either. Do you think that I dont know how to raise wheat ? Science. Will you read it? Prac. Far. No. It is so seldom 1 read that it is quite a task for me to read a hook. Science. Well, will you listen while I read? Prac. Fo.r. 1 have not time to stay long, but I have no objection to hearing you read a lit- tle ; it won’t cost anything, will it? Science. If you will listen attentively, 1 wi'l read you a lew lines with pleasure: — From each acre yielding 25 bushels of wheat, there is extracted from the soil, in the grain, 3.3 pounds of potash, and in the straw 0.6 of a lb.* 'Noth. — The weights here given are m pounds and decimal fractions, thus : 3.3 is three pounds and three- tenths of a pound, and 0 15 is fifteen-hund/edths of a pound It may also be leraarked, that the language here used is not taken from the boolr alluded to by the writer; only the substance is obtained therefrom. Prac. Far. What ! does wheat contain pot- ash ? Science. Yes And the 25 bushels of wheat will also take from the soil in the grain, 3 5 f ounds of soda, and the straw 0.9 of a pound. Prac. Fa.-'. Ah ! does wheat contain soda too? Science. Such an acre of wheat wifi also take from the soil in the grain, 1 .5 pounds ol tim-, and in ihe straw 7 2 pounds. Prac P'ar. Oh, yes! I have heard of peo- ple putting lime on their land, but I never thought enough of it to try it myself. Science. The 25 bushels ot wheat also take from the soil, in the grain, 1.5 pounds of mag- nesia, and in the straw 1 pound. Prac. For. Why, I have hearditsaid that magnesia is injurious to crops, and that when farmers apply lime to their land, they should be carelul 'o use that which does not contain mag- nesia ! But go on; is there anything else in wheat? I can’t stay much longer. Science. In an acre of wheat yielding 25 bushels, there is in the grain 6 pounds of Silica, and in the straw 86 (eighty-six) pounds. Prac. Far. Now I’m stumped! What on earth is Silica ? Science. The book says it is the substance of Jli-nl or pure sand. Prac. Far. What! the substance ol flint or sand in wheat! Pray, Mr. Science, how does it get there ? Science. You know that sand can be melted, as is done in the rnanulacture of glass, by the application of heat with soda and other chemi- cal substances; and this book tells us that it be- comes soluble in wa'er by the aid of the potash and soda before, mentioned ; and when thus dis- solved, it is taken up by the roots of plants. But 1 have not yet got through with the compo- nent elements of wi eat. One acre of wheat yielding 25 bushels, also contains in the grain, J pound ot sulphuric acid, and in the straw 1 pound. Prae. Far. Why, thatjisoilof vitriol, is’nt it? Science. There is also taken from the soil, by 25 bushels of wheat in the grain, 0.6 of a pound of phosphoric acid, and in the straw 5 pounds; also in the grain, 0.15 of a pound of chlorine, and in the straw 0.9 ot a pound. This is all, and you must remember these are inor- ganic substances, such as do not grow like veg- eiaoles, and therelore they* must be extracted from the soil. The total amount ot these inor- ganic substances taken from one acre ot ground yielding 25 bushels of wheat, and including the straw, as it is usually cut by the cradle, is 120 pounds. Three-fourths of this is silica, which is rendered soluble by the alkalies, potash, soda and lime, thus showing the great importance of these substances in soils producing wheat. Prac. Far. Well, I declare I didnotknow that wheat had so many things in it. I always Uwushli\\a.\. wheat grew out ot the ground, and got its food from the vegetable manure that wa^ contained in it, or was pul there by the f rmer. Science. Wei!, friend, you knew before by sad experience, that vegetable manure alone, would not raise v'heat ; for you say that when you put manure on your land, your wheat all went to straw, which was so weak that it fell down fiat on the ground, and had no berry in the heads; and when you sowed your wheat with- out manure, it was struck with the rust, and the grain shrivelled so that you got no more than hall a crop. Now you see that this book has told you some things that yru did not know be- fore, and which perhaps you never would have toundontby your own efforts, without calling in the aid of science. Ptac. Far. Well, if the wheat plant contains all these substances, and they are all extracted from the soil, how are we practical farmers to know when they are not present in the soil? and above all, how are we obtain all this pot- ash, and soda, and lime, and flint, and sulphu- ric acid, and phosphoric acid? Science. The failure ot your wheat ciop for a series of years is pretty good evidence that snwieof these substances are wanting in the soil, but it will not decide which. The only way to determine which one of the foregoing substan- ces may be wanting, is to call in the aid of sci- ence, and have a correct analysis of the soil maae. But, nevertheless, by the nature of the disease that affects the crops, we may be able to judge more correctly of the substance that may be wanting. When the straw is weak and not able to stand erect, it may be certain that the alkalies are wanting to produce the silicates which are deposited in the stem, to give it strength and firmness. This book, however, will tell what substances you must procure and apply to the land, which will supply the ingre- dients contained in the wheat plant. Prac. Far. I should like to hear something more about these matters. Science. This book gives an account of the component ingredients of wood ashes. It says that “ ashes always consists of a mixture in va- riable proportions of carbonates, silicates, sul- phates and phosphorates ot potash, soda, lime atid mo-gnesia, with certain other substances present in smaller quantity, yet more or less ne- cessary, it may be presumed, to vegetable growth.” “ But they contain also, a greater or less quantity of imperfectly burned carbona- ceous matter,” or charcoal. Here you will per- ceive that you have nearly all the substances at once, of which the wheat plant consists. It would seem then, that if ashes be mixed with the soil it will supply the greater part of the substance of wheat. Did you ever think of this before ? Pra,c. Far. I have heard it casually remark- ed that ashes were useful, sowed upon wheat, but I never gave the subject much reflection, and therefore it did not strike me very forcibly. But does your book tell anything about the ac- tion of lime ? I feel somewhat anxious to know this, for I have limestone on my farm and I have a mind to try it. Science. Yes, this book gives an interesting account of the beneficial action of lime upon soils, and sums up its conclusions as follows ; ‘‘ Lime improves the quality of almost every cultivated crop.” ‘‘ It supplies a kind of inorganic food, which appears to be necessary to the healthy growth of all cultivated plants. “ It neutralizes acid substances which are naturally found in the soil, and decomposes or renders harmless other noxious compounds, which are not unfrequently within the reach of plants. “It changes the inert vegetable matter in the soil, so as gradually to render it useful to vege- tation.” Prac. P'ar. It appears then, that lime is use- ful to vegetation in other respects than in fur- nishing this ingredient to the plant. Science. There are a variety ol other sub- stances described in this book which are useful- ly applied to vegetation, both in ameliorating the soil and in furnishing specific substances to the growing crops. But it will detain you too long, [ am afraid, to read all of these to you now. Prac. Far. That must be a good book fo' farmers, I should think. What is the price of it? Where did you get it? I will certainly have to get me one. Science. It mav be had at most ot the book stores in the State for a few shillings, and the title ol it is. Lectures on Agricultural Che- mistrv and Geology, by James F. W, Johnston, Alt. Talbot, Champ. Co., 1845. D. L. Symphytum or Comtrey. From the Genesee Farmer. In searching for aids in a new self-supporting system ot general and liberal education, espe- cially in the physical and dietetic departments, I was led, some ten years ago, to commence a series of experiments upon this vegetable; the interesting results of which 1 began, in Sep- tember, 1842, to communicate publicly in my na- tive eastern region. This, for the public benefit, I wish still to do, as opportunity shall be offered. I have found this article truly of rare value ; the herb made into hay for cat tie, and the woi dried and ground to flour for man. 132 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. It is a native of this and many other coun- tries—found both in a wild state, and also culti- vated in many gardens for its healthful quali- ties, It is perennial, very hardy, the crop sure, the growth luxuriant, the produce abundant, while the labor it requires is very small. In 1841, I obtained of two years’ growth of roots, on soil of moderately good tilth, after the caps of the roots were taken off to replant, when tho- roughly dried and ground, at the rate of 24,200 pounds of flour to the acre. In 1842, 1 obtained on the same soil, from the herb of the second years’ growth, at two cuttings, at the rate of 11,616 pounds of well-made good hay to the acre. It requires no other tilling or attention than digging the crop of roots in April, once in two or three years, and planting as you dig, about? or 8 inches apart both ways; and cut- ting and haying the herbs, once the first year, and twice a year afterwards. When ground in a coffee or corn mill, rhe root flour may then be used like other articles of food, according to the requisitions of health, convenience or fancy, in various breads, gruels, puddings, griddles, soups, pastry and custards, and in such proportions as may be found agree- able. It is (like arrowroot, sage and oatmeal,) very mucilaginous, nutritious, and easy of di- gestion. It operates well for the lungs. It has restored a lost voice, and is one of the best re- medies for habitual coughs and incipient con- sumptions, It nourishes the feeble and suits well a dyspeptic stomach, when no other food can be kept down; and it sets all right in the bowels, I think it one of the best articles for sustenance and health ever made for man, and that on almost every account. But let others cultivate and try it lor themselves, and it will probably, with them as with me, be constantly growing in their estimation. Ezekiel Rich. From the South Carolinian. Talking vs. Doing— Remarks on the Past*- Hints for the Future. No argument like matter of fact is, And we are best of all men led to Men’s principles, by what they do. — Hudil/ras. Assem Hacchem, in his celebrated letters to Mustapha Rub-a-dub Keli-Khan, was right when he said we were a nation of talkers — a body politic of slang-whangers. And we of the South, good men and true as we may be, and right sore upon this subject as we are, must con- fess the fact, that we are a wondrous people, for raising a tempest in a tea-pot. A few years ago when cotton fell from $18 to S8, what a sensation was produced by it. The country was ruined, all cried aloud. Nobody could stand it — to grow cotton at 8 cents was ruinous to the planters. It was sheer nonsense to talk of competing with the West on our worn out lands. Emigration was all the rage, and thousands moved westward and buried their fortunes. Others staid at home and talked of Reform, Economy and Patriotism, Agricultural Societies sprang up everywhere. Newspapers teemed with Agricultural essays. Speeches were made — committees appointed, and premiums offered ; and now it was as plain as the nose on a man’s face, that cotton could not be grown on our exhausted lands at 8 cents. We must reform — we must improve our soil — we must sow grains and grasses, and raise our own slock. This immense drain of ourcapital by the West must be stopped. And, like Alad- din’s lamp, all these things were to be done like magic, it was to be done in a moment. We could never wait for each reform to be eflected gradually — it must be “ Presto— change,” or not at all. Short horns and Ayrshires, Berkshires, Wo- burns and Graziers were in great demand — you could hear of nothing else. And our Yankee and Western brethren, who are always on the watch, to pick up suckers - threw out their bait, and we were “ cotcht.” The Northern papers were filled with the wonderful properties of different breeds of animals, the Southern papers echoed the story- the people ran mad — bit, and were bitten. If would be a sore subject now to many of us to speak of the prices which we paid in those days for the “improved breeds.” It seems inevitable that we are to be taxed for our experience as well as for our wares and merchandize. It is our own fault. Then we began to make manure lots upon the poorest, bleakest places we could find, where- in our cattle, poor things, were to be penned up during winter, resting upon piles of wet litter without a shelter to shut out wind or rain. Manure, such as it was, was made, carted out, and the work seemed fairly begun, so far as talk and the newspapers could go, the problem was solved — we were made a people, every body was surprised, that everybody did’nt ^e it long ago. A few years have passed away, and it is all over. You hear people saying now, manure won’t do. We can’t make enough of it, and it won’t give the results of the newspa- per writers. We must have fresh land. Dur- hams don’t suit ourcountry — they are not adapt- ed to our system of grazing— bless me, what is? That Berkshires and Woburns and Graziers are all humbugs! That if every man makes corn, nobody can sell it, and when one does sell it, the money comes in “ dribbles” and does a man no good. He spends it as fast as he gets it — pray, whose fault is that? Thus they talk, and everybody has gone back to cotton at 4 and 5 cents per pound, and puts in just as much as he can tend, making quanti- ty answer his purpose. The receipts in our markets go plainly to show that there is no fall- ing off in the quantity produced on our exhaust- ed iands, and but for the extremely unfavorable spring, we have no doubt as much would have been put in on an average as ever. It is a strange thing, really, that at a lime when the country was comparatively out of debt, our staple at a low price, and our lands exhausted, that the planters should steadily refuse to carry out a reform, which would work out incalcula- ble advantages to the country. The truth of the matter is, w’e all w’ant to be big folks. We want to roll our cotton down to market and get the money all in one big lump. W e have got into that way of doing things and we can’t bear the idea of this piddling business in dollars and cents. We know nothing of the old adage, “ a brisk penny is belter that a slow shilling.” We are in too great a hurry to wait for the end. In truth, we are always in too great a hurry — it must come at once or never. We are the creatures of impulse, which may do very well for sentiment, but belongs not to larming, stock raising and manu.re heaps — eve- rything therein must go its regular course. We have reformed but indifferently — we must reform altogether. No half way point is there in this matter — there must be a regular system to be adopted and worked out to the end without any shrinking from the purpose. Manure lots should not be built anywhere on the side of a hill, or in the depth of a valley. They should be constructed as ifthey were to be therefor one’s posterity. It is the fatal error with us, that we do everything in a hurry, and as it were ‘‘pro tempore." And when manure is applied to the earth it should be in such a man- ner as to tell its own story. It is far better to ma- nure a small field well, than a large one badly. Cattle and hogs of improved breeds should not be introduced before w'e are ready for them. Recollect that we have none of the convenien- ces lor raising such things ; treatment that might answer very well for our brindled cattle and razor backed hogs would soon kill an “ im- proved” animal. We must not expect to pro- duce like from like, unless it be by like treat- ment, that’s certain. We must begin by degrees and not jump in medias res at the first bounce — nonsense all this. With the same pen of shucks we expect to keep up the same oid stock, and the improved breed into the bargain. Belter had it been for us if we had kept our old slock and improved by judicious selection and feeding until we learned from experience the benefits of such a system — then we would be prepared to introduce your Durhams, Devons, et ceteras. We do veril” believe that it would be an absolute saving to most of our planters, and a manliest impiove- ment upon their stock, if they would knock in the head and skin one-halt their live stock at the beginning of every winter. To succeed, we must be fixed forsuch things. Meadows cannot be made in a day, nor will old sedge fields answer all the purposes of grazing. Old habits like ours cannot be changed in a moment — all these things must be the work of lime, labor, perseverance, energy and economy. It will be a long time before you can teach a cotton growing people such a doctrine — yea, we fear it will never be done, till every stick of timber is destroyed, and every corner filled with an inhabitant. Nondescript, The Grape and Wine Making. From the Alabama Planter. We had placed in our hands a private letter, not intended lor the use we are permitted to make of it, which contains some valuable hints on the cultivation of the native grape and wine making. The writer has lor many years taken a lively interest in the agricultural improve- ments of our Slate, and bestowed no little pains by ckseand patient experiments, in develop- ing her resources. He has done more perhaps than any other man in ascertaining what pro- ducts will succeed and amply reward the culti- vator for his labor. Therefore, we have entire confidence in what he says in regard to the na- tive grape. If, however, other evidence were wanting of his knowledge and skill — of the su- perior quality of his grapes, and his ability to extract from them a nectar that the gods might sip with delight, we have it in a sample of wine of his own vintage. W hether or not this w’orthy gentleman’s ad- mirable system of farming and domestic econo- my is ever adopted generally by our people, he will enjoy the satisfaction of having done all in his power, both by precept and example, in pointing out the true road to prosperity and hap- piness. Ten or twelve years ago the same gentleman published through the Alabama State Intelli- gencer, conducted at Tuscaloosa by the wri- ter of this article, a series of interesting pa- pers, designed to impress upon planters the pol- icy of a mote varied system of culture. As a proof ol their merit, they were very generally copied by the Southern press, although put forth at a time when cotton was more exclusively culiivaied than at the present. Recently he has written for the Register of this city a number of communications of a highly practical charac- ter; and, devoted as that paper is, mainly to commercial affairs, they have been promptly published and received with approbation by a large number of its readers. This certainly may betaken as gratifying evidence that al- ready a deep iniere&t is awakened on the sub- ject of Agriculture. We trust the future num- bers of the Alabama Planter will be graced by contributions Irom the same source, Buttothe letter: “I make annually for my own use and to scatter amongst friends, from 75 to 100 gallons of wine. I prefer it for a summer drink, using no spirits. The red wine was made from our native uncultivated grape, which abounds through this section of country, some of the fi- nest varieties of which I am cultivating, pre- viously having determined«their qualities as re- gards producing a good wine. There is an astonishing variety in the pro- duct of our native grape, all of which are culti- vated w’ith great ease, and exhibiton cultivating an improvement hardly credible. Among other properties possessed by our na- tive grape, the quantity of vinous matter they possess is most remarkable. A bushel of bunches as pulled from the vine will give three gallons of the wine I sent you ; and after under- going a second operaiion, about one gallon more of a lighter but most agreeab'e wine. It would take a third pressure to produce the mea- THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 133 ger drink with which they in part teed the pea- santry in France, &c., who tend the vintage. I anticipate most agreeable results from the cul- tivation of our native Iruits, based on the trials 1 have already made. The white wine 1 sent you, is from an Ame- rican grape acclimated to this section of the country many years ago. It is a redish color- ed grape, resembling the Catawba, exquisite for the table, a great bearer and hardy. As regards the cultivation of the grape and wine making, I have effected one most desira- ble object, viz: doing away altogether with that great expense of which so much has been wrote and said. The ground in which my vines stand and bear, produce me annually two other crops; say a crop of Irish potatoes, and alter they are matured and taken from the ground, another crop, the same year, of a variety of the red sweet potatoe, a most valuable variety for stock and most productive. My mode of sup- porting the vine is simple, efficient and econo- mical. The manure given to the Irish potatoe crop is ample lor the vines, and applied in the best possible way. The superiority of the grapes 1 produce, as regards quantity and qual- ity, has been often loudly remarked by our own citizens and foreigners. I have a splendid collection of the apple, all acclimated. The cider apple is perhaps the most beautiful tree of the kind you have seen, a most free grower and prolific, bearing annual full crops. It is the best apple to hang on the tree and the freest from rot I have ever seen. It cannot be surpassed in the Union. It is a na- tive of Alabama, produced from repeated plant- ing of seed and grafting and regrafting for the last twenty-five years, A vineyard at maturity, say the fourth year, would be good for from 500 to 750 gallons — the seventh for 1,000 gallons— the Scuppernong much more to the acre. My mode of planting and cultivating the grape, half the quantity per acre and the annual crop mentioned, please me better. Ground wdth us is plenty, and potaties are as essential to our comfort as wine. In fact, in every species of cultivation I am every day more convinced, that mixed cropping is the true mode of employ- ing soil and labor. In this way the expense and labor is singularly decreased in proportion to the product. By giving the vines room I insure heavy crops of grapes and rich fruit. I tend, prune, etc., with satisfaction ; the first wdth the plow and a little w'ith the hoe while making the pota- toe crops. The room enables me to gather the fruit with ease and readily. I employ the trellis in cultivating the grape. In all respects it is the best. Our native and such other grapes as I cultivate prefer it. This appendage to the vineyard costs me about ^5 annually, per acre, including pruning. I eut down sassafras or cedar trees, say 9 to 10 inch- es diameter, into posts 8 feet, point the but end, put the small end in the ground, 10 feet distance, nail on the sides lathes about two inches square, just as split from the cypress log, and my trel- lis is done. My tying, the be.st I have ever found, is the bear grass, found readily in the woods profusely scattered in spots — shrunk over the fire, when green, it becomes a soft, pliable ly- ing. Thus you see, I am all economy, and no part of the “Indian’s gun,” cost more than it earae to,” Nutritive GLoaoities or Peas. — Peas con- tain a larger quantity of nutritive substance than almost any other vegetable. Liebig says they abound in vegetable caseine, the third constitu- ent of the vegetable food of animals, which is, in fact, vegetable cheese. Caseine is chiefly found in peas, beans, lentils and similar leguminous seeds. The following comparison of the ingre- dients of vegetable (caseine) and animal (milk) cheese, is taken from Liebig’s tables : lOOp'irts Vegetable Cheese. I 100 parte Animal Cheese. Carbon 54.138 | Carbon 54.825 Hydrogen 7.156 | Hydrogen 7.153 Nitrogen 15.672 \ Nitrogen 15. 628 Oxygen, &c 23.034 | Oxygen, &c 22.394 Oil the Cultivation of the Raspberry. From the Magazine of Horticulture. In our last number, we gave an article on the cultivation of the currant. It was the first of a series of papers we intend to offer upon the cul- tivation of all the Iruits of the garden, which have not been previously written upon by our- selves. We now proceed to treat upon the growth of the raspberry. The raspberry, like the strawberry and cur- rant, and other small fruits, the gooseberry ex- cepted, has been greatly neglected in its culti- vation. Though common in every garden, and everywhere esteemed, next to the straw'berry, for its rich and handsome fruit, yet few indi- viduals have attempted improved methods of growth, by which the size, beauty, excellence and productiveness of the berries may be in- creased to a much greater degree than they are generally seen in our gardens. The raspberry is as susceptible of improve- ment as the strawberry: yet, while in the latter we have the beautiful Keen’s seedling and our own variety, contrasting with such marked su- periority over the small and inferior berries of the older sorts, the same varieties of the rasp- berry are now cultivated that were common twenty or thirty years ago, and they are still deemed the most desirable sorts. The same at- tention bestowed on this fruit, that has been de- voted to the gooseberry, would undoubtedly have resulted in the production of varieties much su- perior to those at present grown. The raspberry, like the strawberry, is a na- tive of low and partially shady situations, grow- ing in boggy or soft black soils, w'hich allow its roots to strike deep, and throw up a free growth of its vigorous suckers. It is only in such situations, in their wild state, that the plants are found productive ; on light and thin soils, and in high and exposed situations, the growth of the suckers is limited, and the fruit scarcely ever attains any size. Nature thus teaches the proper mode which the cultivator should adopt in the growth of the plants; and it should be his object to follow her, rather than to divertand thwart her in the course she has pointed out for us to pursue. But how different is the cultivation of the raspberry from what we should infer from na- ture to be most conducive to its healthy growth. The plants are frequently set out in light and poor soils, crowded together, left untrimmed, choked up with a profuse growth of weak stems, and what little fruit they produce nearly dried up, from the arid situation in which they are placed. On the contrary, in cool, deep, and moist soils, in a sheltered amd partially shaded place, the plants throw up suckers to the height of six or eight feet, and produce a profusion of large, handsome, and well flavored berries. So well assured are the most eminent English cul- tivators of the raspberry, of its love of a cool and moist soil, that some writers have strenu- ously recommended the use of bog earth and rotten leaves, in the place of the richest loam. We are well assured that the many complaints which are made of the meagre produce of many raspberry plantations, may be attributed wholly to the light and droughty soils in which they are often planted. We would not here omit to menlion the pro- duction of seedlings for the purpose of securing new sorts. By hybridization of the kinds, and by selecting the finest and largest fruit, from which to save the seeds, we are certain new and superior varieties can be raised. To induce cultivators to give more attention to the raspberry, is the object of this article ; and to render our information the more useful, w’e shall treat of its growth under the following heads : Situation — Soil— Procuring Plants — Planting Out — Winter Treatment — Summer Treatment — Autumnal Dressings — Pruning — General Remarks — and Descriptions of the dif ferent varieties. Situation. — A cool aspect is of material consequence; and to secure this, the north side of a fence or trellis, which will form a screen from the sun, is the most favorable: on the north side of a shubbery, or row of fruit trees, is also a suitable place. If neither of these situations are to be had, an open spot in the gar- den may be chosen, always being careful to avoid the south or east side of a fence. A tem- porary shade may be effected in the open garden, by planting a row of running beans on the south side. Having selected a proper place, proceed to prepare the soil. Soil. — A good soil is the most important re- quisite. Having marked out the size of the bed, if the earth is not naturally very rich and deep, preparations should be made to trench it. First cover the surface with three or four inches of bog earth it to be procured, or, in its place, leaf soil, and if these are not conveniently to be had, good old rotten hot-bed manure, which has laid at least six or eight months : that from hot-beds made in April will do lor use in the fol- lowing October, and if a portion of the bed was leaves, it is so much the mure to be preferred. Having spread the manure upon the surface, it should then be trenched in two spades deep, or about eighteen inches, placing the manure at the bottom of the trench. Level the surface, and spade in an inch or two more of the same kind of manure, and after allowing a week for the bed to settle, it will be ready for planting. Procuring Plants. — The success of planting out depends considerably upon a judicious se- lection of plants. Suckers of all sizes are ge- nerally thrown up, and many cultivators would naturally select the largest: such, however, are not the best ; those of medium size, neither too large nor too small, have the finest roots, and spread more rapidly than the others. In select- ing, reference should be had to the roots rather than the tops. Planting out. — Having prepared the beds, and secured a sufficient number of plants, pre- parations may be made for setting out. A spade, a rake, and a garden hoe will be the proper im- plements to accomplish this. The bed being marked out, stretch the line across the bed, from east to west, at the djsfance of two feet from the walk: commence on either side of the line at one end, by taking out the earth the width and depth of the spade; place in the plant against the line, and throw the soil out of the second hole to fill up the first; in this way proceed un- til the whole bed is planted, treading the soil lightly around each plant ; with the rake smooth and level the whole, and the work is finished. The rows should be three feet apart, and the plant three feet apart in the rows. Winter Treatment. — On the approach of cold weather it will be necessary to protect the plants for the winter. The best method of doing this is simply to bend the branches down to the ground, and cover them with four or five inches of the soil. Some cultivators use leaves, and others coarse manure, but we believe nothing answers better than the common soil in which they grow.* Summer Treatment. — As soon as danger of cold weather is over, which is generally the first of April, the plants should be uncovered, and a stake placed to each, to which the stems should be securely tied : the first summer very little must be expected from the plantation, and only a few suckers will be thrown up from each plant ; but by the second year they will be more numerous, and produce considerable fruit. As soon as the plants are tied up, proceed to level the ground, and giye it a neat finish with the rake : the only after cuUure is to keep down the weeds, and the surface loose, by occasional hoeings. Autumnal Dressings. — Enriching the bed at time of planting is not sufficient to keep the plants in good condition. The beds should hav« a dressing of two or three inches of compost every autumn. This should be laid on in Oc- tober and lightly forked in, bearing in mind that a mixture of bog earth, or leaf soil and manure, is better for the plants than all manure. This will encourage the growth of the roots, and in 'Not necessary in the Southern States — Ed. Cult. 134 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. the spring, the suckers which are thrown up to torm the bearing plants of the next season, will be much stronger. Pruning.— ThQ raspberry can hardly be said to need pruning in the common acceptation ol that term. All that is required is to shorten the most vigorous bearing stems, and to cut away the old wood after it has produced its Iruit. The second summer after planting, the plants will throw up a quantity ot suckers; if numerous and small, four or five of the best should be left their entire length ; if large and strong, they should be shortened to four or five feel, and the superfluous ones rooted up, unless wanted to form new plantations. General Remarks.— A& the raspberry is a rapid grower, after it once takes hold of the soil, quan- tities of suckers will spring up, which, in the course of lour or five years, will weaken the plants. On this account new plantations should be made every fifth or sixth year, and the soil trenched and renewed by the application of the compost already mentioned. The raspberry is rarely attacked by insects. We are not aware that we have ever been trou- bled with any during our cultivation of this fruit, for upwards of fifteen years. On this ac- count, it requires very little care at the hands of the cultivator. As a market fruit it is particu- larly worthy of attention, requiring less care than the strawberry, easier picked, and the finer sorts commanding a good price. The following is a list of the best kinds now cultivated. A few of them are new, and, as yet, not very extensively known. The kinds we would recommend are the white and red Antwerp, and the Franconia; lor larger gar- dens, all the others may be added, which will af- ford a great variety, and a succession of fruit. The names, with the exception ol the three last, are according to the London Horticultural So- ciety’s Catalogue. Description of the Different Varieties. Red Antwerp.— Ol fine size, excellent flavor, and productive; one of the best. Yellow Antwerp, — Syn. White Antwerp. Simi- lar to the last, except in the color of the ber- ries; a delicious fruit, but does not bear car- riage well. Barnet. — Syn. Cornwall’s Prolific. A fine, large, red'fruit, productive and excellent, but does not bear carriage well. Common Red — Syn. Old red. The old kind of the garden. An indifferent bearer, and of in- ferior quality. Double Bearing. — Syn. Perpetual bearing. Said to be a good and productive kind, having the merit ol producing one crop in July, and another in September. Franconia. — Syn. Seedling Grape. One of the most productive and finest kinds cultiva- ted around Boston. Fruit red, large, and handsome. The origin of this sort is un- known. It was originally received from Vil- morin, of Paris, by S. G. Perkins, Esq., of Brookline. New Red Antwerp. — It promises to be, so far as we have tried it, a very fine variety, Cretan Red. — A fine variety, the fruit large and handsome, rather more tart than the Antwerp, and continues in bearing a long time, which renders it highly valuable. Besides the above eight sorts, the new Turkish Turban, Victoria, Brentford, Spring Grove, and the Ohio Ever-bearing, are recommended as very fine kinds. To those who have room, we would advise a trial ol them. [Since the above was written, a new variety of the Raspberry called the Fastolff has been intro- duced. It is highly extolled in England, but has not been tested in this country to any ex- tent, but roots are in much demand this spring.] Wash poe the HAiR.—The American Farm- er says a Joz. oil of burgamot put in a quart of uncolored N.E. rum, well shaken together in a glass vessel, and applied twice a day, is one ot the best washes erer applied to the human hair, and prevents its falling out. Cheeseology. During the hot part of the summer the farm- er’s wife will use the milk ol her cows in the manufacture of cheese. Now, although any- body can put a quantity of rennet into milk and change it to curd, and then, after separating this curd from the whey, give it a good squeezing, every one cannot do this in the right way to form first rate cheese. A friend who has charge ot a small dairy, asked us the other day to pub- lish some of the “ ways and means'’ of making good cheese. We therefore, out of pure good will to the ladies, re-publish our article on Che- shire cheese, and also throw the following hints in to bool, which wp. obtained from an old cheese maker in New York, and which have been pub- lished several times in different forms and places. He observes that the first step is to prepare the rennet properly, which is done by steeping it in water or sweet whey, which is preferable, and adding salt enough to keep it sweet. The quantity ol rennet used in a given quantity of milk, must be regulated by its strength. Some rennets are better than others, and therefore the strength of the liquor which a given quantity will make is uncertain. Put in enough to perfectly curdle the milk. Ifyou should put in too much the cheese will puff up full of holes and have an unpleasant taste. In hot weather, when milk will be likely to sour in the evening, it should be cooled down to from 45 to 55° of the common thermometer (Farenheii’s) which may be done by setting the pans in a cold place, or se;ting them in cold water. Or, if you have milk enough for large tubs, put in coolers or tin vessels full of cold water, so as to bring down the temperature of the milk. In the morning many skim off the cream which has risen, and put it by itself in a pan. You then prepare to set the milk, as it is called. Take some of the milk and heat it to blood heat, i. e. as warm as milk is when it comes from the cow, and pour the cream into it. There should be enough of this milk to liquify the cream. Then raise the whole of your last night’s milk, together with that of the morn- ing’s milk as it comes from the cow, and pour all together, that which has the cream with the rest. Then add the rennet and let it curdle, which it will do in about an hour. It may be consid- ered to be all curdled when it will admit of a slight pressure without breaking. While this is going on, some cream may rise to the top. Be careful and not let this escape with the whey, but skim it to one side of the tub, and put some curd on to it with a skimmer. And you must be very careful in breaking up, not to let too much, or, indeed, any of the cream or buttery particles become mixed and escape with the whey. Spread a coarse cloth or strain- er over the whole, and let the whey rise up through it, and dip off as much as you can easi- ly. Then remove the doth and break the curd again as fine as you can with a skimmer, and dip oflT the whey again carefully. Some of the first whey should be heated im- mediately after it is dipped off, and by the time the second whey is dipped off, the heated whey should be ready to scald the curd. Our inform- ant says that it should be heated to about 130°, a little more than half as hot as boiling water, and that two pailsfal were enough to scald the curd of forty pailsful of milk. As soon as you have dipped off the whey the second time, break up the curd again, and pour on the hot whey and thoroughly mix it, and break the curd up with the hand as fine as you can. Then cool it by pouring on cold whey. Then move it into a cheese basket, over which a cloth is spread, in which all the whey is worked out by squeezing the curd as clean as possible. Then put the curd into the cheese tub and salt it. Some add a teacuplul to every 15 lbs. of curd, but a better way is to salt it to suit the taste. The salt should be thoroughly mixed, for if this is not done some parts of the cheese will puff up and have a different taste. It is now ready for pressing, which should be faithfully done. Although there may be danger of pressing too much, there is more danger ot not pressing enough; and cheese not suffi- ciently pressed, will not keep well. — Maine Far- mer. Economy. From the Southern Planter. Perhaps the most marked trait in the charac- ter of the Southern farmer is the want of eco- nomy. Many reasons have been assigned for the depressed state of agriculture in the South. That our country enjoys the most unrivalled ad- vantages for the prosecution of agricultural pur- suits, is undenied and undeniable ; that the im- provements in this art have no. kept even pace with other departments ot science, is universal- ly admitted. The inquiring mind, which seeks for reasons for every fact, has been engaged in the explanation of this phenomenon. Some have declared that the light of science was w'aniing to the pursuit of agriculture; some have attri- buted the stationary character of this pursuit to the existence of a slave population, i5fcc. That the science of agriculture is in its na- ture one of the most complex and intricate, a little consideration must satisfy the most care- less observer; and the fact that a season is re- quired to test an experiment, proves, that expe- rience, which is the foundation ol true know- ledge, is more difficult of attainment in this than in any other art. But this is true of agriculture everywhere, and only accounts for the retarded progress ol the art w'hen considered in relation to the world generally. It has been a'sserted, however, that in the Southern part of the United States, the portion of the whole globe perhaps best adapted to the pursuit of agriculture, im- provement languishes most. Whilst we are not prepared to admit this charge to its fullest extent, we will confess that agricultural im- provements encounter peculiar difficulties in their progress through the Southern States ; not, as some imagine, for want of knowledge of the scientific discoveries in agriculture, lor they, we believe, in truth, are very few, and areas well known to the enlightened farmers of the South as to any portion of the Union. But the fact is, that amongst the highly favored, wr althy farmers of the South, a state of financial em- barrassment prevails, that offers an insuperable bar to agricultural improvement. It is notun- common to find a Southern farmer with real es- tate and negroes worth fifty thousand dollars, sadly embarrassed with a debt ol tw'enty thou- sand. Our Northern friends will wonder how a man with fifty thousand dollars’ worth of proper- ty can be seriously embarrassed with a debt of twenty thousand, but a Southern man will readi- ly understand the feelings and sentiments which make it so distasteful to part with that peculiar kind of property in which a large por- tion of his funds is vested. But unless he sell his slaves, the farmer cannot part with an acre ot ground, which is, in his opinion, hardly suffi- cient to keep them employed. Thus it is, that the debt is not only retained, but perhaps from the same cause from which it originated, it is increased, and to provide lor the interest alone, absorbs all the funds and much of the time of the improvident farmer. It were bootless to look to the origin of this state of things ; it could perhaps be traced to the fact of expensive habits derived from a wealthy ancestry, whilst the enormous profits that justified them fn former years, have altogether ceased in later times; for whilst there is no difficulty ir, expanding your expenses in prosperity, the contraction in ad- versity is not quite so easy. Be that as it may, the fact of a very general pecuniary embarrass- ment amongst even the wealthy portion of the agricultural community in the South, is not to be denied; and this circumstance alone, when fully considered, will be found sufficient to ac- count for the reta ded state of agricultural im- provement in the South. Money is the great lever with which the world is both raised and lowered. Suggest to a farmer a system of cul- tivation by which his exhausted fields may be rested and restored; he is fully aware of it, but he tells you that the corn from that field is levo- THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 135 ted to the liquidation of a debt alread7 incur- red ; prove to him that it he is deprived of this resource for a year or two, it will only be to double the product in after time; he knows it ; but even with the yield of that field, he fears that his income tor the year will fall short of his expenses. He hopes that it will be better after awhile, but-Mfiyear, he must “ make every thing tell.” Show him a valuable labor-saving machine, an investment in which would be equivalent to an interest ot fifty pe- cent., his answer is, “My dear sir, I am a borrower, not an investerof money;” and so he is, poor fel- low. It is not the want of scientific knowledge that keeps that man’s fields poor, and induces the most skinning system of cultivation, but it is the want of pecuniary means. What is the remedy for this state of things ? We answer emphatically, retrenchment and economy. Begin with yourself; curtail your in- dividual expenses, go through every member of your household, cut down and pare off every- where; teach your children that the conve- niences and elegancies purcha.sed of the milliner and ihe mercer, may be substituted, in a great measure, by their own handicraft. Your own part is nothing, but to deprive those you love of that to which they have been accustomed, is, we know, a bitter pill ; but it must be taken. In the great fall of agricultural products, there is no help for it. Do not tell us that you already practise eco- nomy to its fullest extent. My dear sir, you don’t begin to know the meaning of the word. What is vour income? About $1500 — well, go to the North and see how a farmer with an in- come ofS2000 lives, compare your expenditures with his, and then see if you know anything about economy. And whilst you are there, ob- serve the difference between his case and yours — he probably has at the end of the year eight hundred or a thousand dollars to devote to the improvement ol his land, which improvement probably secures him a surplus of twelve or fifteen hundred dollars at the end of the next year, and so he goes on, getting richer and rich- er, whilst you are getting poorer and poorer. Suppose your situations to be nearly the same in 1845, work this thing out, and see where you will both be in 1855. There is one point upon which we will take the liberty of giving you the glentlest hint in the world. Be not afraid in this proposed system ot reform of any opposition from your wife, j Come out like a man and explain to her the ne- ; cessity for it ; women are always more frugal | and self-denying than men; we’ll answer for Aer. j It is astonishing how not only theprice but the real value oi land, is affected by the economical habits of a neighborhood. We were sensibly struck with this fact in a conversation last sum- mer with an intelligent gentleman from Rock- ingham. We were both at the time in the county of Albemarle, and something was said about the high p.ice for which land was sold in that county. The Rockingham gentleman remarked, that similar land in his own county, not at all more productive, farther from market, would sell for one-third more money. He was then asked, whv he did not sell in Rockingham and purchase in Albemarle. He replied, be- cause he found, upon a lair calculation, thatthe land was cheaper in R.oekingham than in Albe- marle ; that is, that owing to the different habits and customs of the people, he could lay up more money from an investment in the one than in the other. This is sound reason- ing, and it is the reasoning upon which men are induced to give a hundred dollars an acre for lands in New York or Pennsylvania, whilst lands equally productive can be purchased in Virginia for half the money. Yeast.— -To show the nature of yeast, philo- sophically considered, we give an extract from a lecture delivered at Bristol, England : The first point brought by Mi. Carpenter un- der the notice of his auditors, was the vegetable nature of yeast. He states that the phenomena of fermentation havl long been a source of per- plexity to chemists; a change being produced by the action of this substance in the fluid with which it is mixed whilst it does not itself enter into any new combinatioa, but on the other hand is greatly increased in amount. This mystery is now explained. On looking at yeast with a good microscope, the mass is found to consist of a number ol minute disconnected vesicles, whish greatly resemble those of the red snow (Protococcus nivalis.) These, like seeds, re- tain their vitality for almost any length ol time ; and their power of growing, when placed in pro- per circumstances, not being destroyed by ex- posure to such extremes of temperature as 76° and 1 12°, or being dried in a cake. When these are placed in a saccharine solution, they com- mence vegetating actively, provided the tem- perature be sufficiently high. If a fluid thus excited to fermentation be exam.ned at short in- tervals, it is observed that each vesicle puts forth one or more little prolongations or buds, w’hich in time become new vesicles like their parents; these again perform the same process, so that within a few hours the single vesicles have developed themselves into groups of four, five, or SIX. By the time that five or six vesicles are formed in each group, the fermentation is sufficiently advanced for the purposes ol the manufacturer, and he then takes measures to check it. The vegetation of yeast is then sus- pended, and the groups ot vesicles separate in- to individuals, the mass of which constitutes the yeast thus largely increased in amount. The vesicles multiply also by a process analo- gous to the formation of seed' 4a the higher plants. Some of them are observed to burst, and to emit a number of minute granules, each of which developed itself into a new cell, as in the case of the red snow. Very few farmers fully appreciate the advan- tages of the improved agricultural implements METEOROLOGICAL JOURNAL FOR THE YEAR 1845, KEPT AT ATHENS, GA., BY PROFESSOR McCAY, OF THE UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA, JANUARY. ! FEBRUARY. c 3 A R 0 M E - THERMO- CLEARNESS COUR SE & B A R 0 M E - THERMO- CLEARNESS COURSE > OF SKY F’M STRENGTH > , > STRENGTH > < IC TER. METER. 10 TO 0. OF ■WIND.’ z : •< CD T E n . METER. 10 TO 0. OF WIND * z Sun- 3 o'dk Sun- 3 o'k Su n - 3 o’ elk Sun- 3 o’k Inch- Sun- 3 o’dk Sun ! o’k Sun- 3 o' elk Sun 3 o'k Inch- p rise. P M rise P. M rise. P M rise. P. M. es. o rise. P. M rise. P. M nse» P. M. ri se. P, M. es. 1 29-40 29.42 54 65 5 7 w. 1 w. 2 1 29-50 29 -51 31 48 2 5 0 w. 1 2 ■44 •46 37 61 10 10 0,w'. 1 . 2 • 59 •63 23 47 10 10 N. 1 0 3 •46 •44 44 62 9 5 0 N. 2 3 •59 •49 29 37 0 0 N. 1 E. 1 0-60 4 •53 •22 45. 59 10 6 w. 1 ew 2 4 •01 •CO 38 40 5 5 nw3 nw7 0-03 5 •24 ■22 38 65 0 0 5w2 sw4 5 • 11 •25 25 25 7 10 nw4 nw6 6 ■01 28-83 53 64 0 0. 3W 5 sw7 1- 6 ■ 37 •40 25 43 10 10 nw4 N. 4 7 •08 29 ■■25 45 53 0 10 \v. 7 w. 3 7 ■52 •50 31 49 1 2 0 0 8 ■40 ■41 31 48 10 10 w. 2 w. 1 8 • 59 •50 33 56 10 10 sw 1 w. 1 9 •43 •40 26 54 10 10 w. 2 NWI 9 •50 •47 33 57 10 10 W'. 1 w. 1 10 •39 •30 32 58 6 0 w. 1 sw 3 10 •53 • 5i 34 61 5 6 NWl nw2 11 •25 •35 39 50 10 5 w. 2 w. 3 0-12 11 •3-i •30 47 70 0 & 0 sw 3 12 •35 •39 38 48 10 10 0 w. 2 12 •29 •30 53 74 10 9 0 0 13 ■ 20 ■10 32 59 5 7 w. 4 w. 7 13 •35 •33 '56 75 8 7 0 sw 2 14 • 39 •45 33 57 8 10 0 w. 1 14 •42 •41 44 49 0 0 ne2 E. 3 15 • 58 ■58 41 58 0 0 E. 1 E. 1 15 •26 • 21 53 61 0 4 sw2 w. 3 0-20 16 •54 •50 48 62 3 6 0 sw 1 16 •40 •41 33 57 10 8 nw2 N. 2 17 - .30 •17 58 61 0 9 3E. 2. sw 1 1-60 17 •42 •39 41 66 1 0 w. 2 w. 2 18 •28 •39 47 51 1 3 jjw5 nw4 0-20 18 • 36 •35 42 65 1 9 0 0 19 • 50 •43 33 38 0 0 NE 7 NE 5 0-44 19 •38 •40 39 65 8 5 0 0 20 •39 ■33 34 42 0 0 NE 2 w. 1 20 •40 • 36 49 67 1 1 N. 1 8w2 21 •35 •44 39 48 2 10 w 4 w. 5 21 •37 •37 58 68 1 5 ^ 1 3. 1 0-03 22 •59 •62 25 45 10 1 N. 2 NE-.l 22 •33 ■35 55 69 1 0 s. 1 SW 3 0-04 23 ■ 60 ■41 44 46 0 0 E. 1 E. 1 0-86 23 • 21 •42 62 64 0 3 3w2 w. 4 0-04 24 • 23 •16 44 52 0 6 SE. 1 nw7 0-20 24 • 27 • 29 40 64 5 10 w. 2 w. 1 25 •20 •19 34 46 8 10 w. 2 w. 2 25 • 33 •25 33 65 9 10 NWl sw 1 26 ■36 •41 29 54 10 10 w. 1 0 26 •25 • 25 35 62 9 10 w. 2 w. 2 11 •43 •45 23 56 6 10 w. 1 w. 2 27 •36 • 19 30 51 8 2 0 nw6 •23 •43 •34 32 63 8 5 0 sw2 0-06 28 ,44 •39 29 53 10 10 NWI nw4 29 •66 • 64 31 48 10 0 N. 1 w. 2 30 •D/ •71 36 44 10 10 N. 2 N. 2 29-37 29-37 39 57 average. Fot’l rain 0-94 31 • 65 •56 27 51 9 9 N. 1 nw3 29-39 •29 -37 38 53 average. Tot’l rain 4-48 ing the least and 10 the strongest. MARCH. u > < (a B A R 0 SI E - Ter. THERMO- METER. CLEARNESS OF SKY F’M 10 TO 0, :COURSE & STRENGTH OF WIND " ?5 t.- Z Sun- 3 o’ elk Stm- 3 o’k Sun 3 o’clk Sun- 3 o'k Inch. c rise. P. M. rise. P: M. rise. P. M. rise. P. M. es. 1 29 •39129 -40 28 60 8 6 0 0 •2 •43 ■32 45 59 0 0 NE 1 0 o o. 3 • 35 •43 71 0 6 w. 2 w. 2 4 •42 • 20 58 61 0 3 NE 2 SE 2 5 ■16 •33 56 6-2 7 10 SW 4 sw2 0-04 6 ■60 •58 44 61 10 10 w. 1 w. 1 7 ■55 •50 52 70 2 5 0 sw 1 8 ■ 46 • 40 57 74 0 6 0 w. 2 9 •38 ■26 65 77 5 5 w. 2 w. 4 10 •16 •16 67 62 0 0 nw5 Nwl 0-25 11 •36 •43 36 57 10 7 N. 2 w. 2 12 ■51 ■ 50 44 56 0 2 NE 2 £. 2 13 ' .41 •3S 49 55 0 0 NE 2 E. 1 14 • 25 •25 51 61 0 6 nw2 nw4 0-20 15 • 33 •30 41 53 3 10 NWl w. 4 16 • 21 •09 37 54 8 8 0 w. 4 17 • 06 • 00 49 72 10 5 w. 2 w. 8 IS •13 • 20 45 57 10 8 w. 1 w. 6 1:9 ■ 33 •35 32 46 9 6 N. 1 w. 6 20 • 54 • 56 30 51 10 10 w, 1 nw4 21 • 60 ■59 31 56 9 8 NWl w. 6 22 ■ 50 • 55 28 56 10 7 NWl w. 1 23 *50 • 45 41 56 6 0 0 sw2 24 • 36 •34 49 61 0 10 0 nw2 0-03 25 • 60 • 65 33 69 10 10 N. 2 w. 1 26 ■ 67 •70 32 63 10 10 w. 1 w. 1 27 • 71 • 66 35 60 10 10 w. 1 w. 2 28 • 66 • 64 50 68 1 2 0 sw 1 [)-02 29 -64 • 60 52 67 0 5 sw 1 w. 1 0-12 30 •53 • 60 56 67 1 7 0 w. 1 31 • 40 •34 57 67 1 5 NE 1 0 29-42 29-41 45 61 average. Toflrain 0-70 Average foe the Barometer, at sunrise, 29-40 ; 3 o’clock, p. m. 29"38 — Thermometer, sunrise, 41 ; 3 p. m. bl^Total Rain, inches, 6»i2. 136 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. ®l)e Soutljern €ultt«atciv. AUGUSTA, GA. VOE.. III., NO. 9...SEPTEMKER, 1845. The Maine Farmer. Our friend and co-laborer, Mr. Holmes, of the Maine Farmer, copies two articles from our pa- per of July, and speaks of them and of the South as in the articles hereunto annexed. We copy his remarks, because we are pleased to have our efforts to serve the South commended in a quar- ter where we might suppose the prevailing inte- rest to be that we should continue to indulge ourselves in the old folly of depending on others for the thousand and one things Yankee thrift and ingenuity have contrived to sell to us in times past : for instance, that we should continue to get Thomaston lime for building, when there is in Georgia alone better limestone, and more of ^ it, than in all Nev.' England put together. But a more especial purpose of copying the article of the Maine Farmer, is, that we may protest, as we now do, against the imputation of referring to the action of the Tariff alone by the words “ pil- lage according to law.” Not by any means did we intend to be so understood. Yet, even if we had so intended, we do not see how offence could be properly taken thereat, after a New England Senator had made the declaration, in the U. S. Senate, that the repeal of the Tariff would make New England a howling wilderness : — a pretty plain admission, we think, that New England does live by the pillage of somebody, either ac- cording to law or somehow else. But this, most unfortunately for the South, has been made a topic of party politics, and has, therefore, been steadily avoided by us in the conduct of the Cul- tivator , We have a higher aim — we take more extended views of the subject, and our purpose was to be understood as referring to the whole system of national finance, revenue and expen- diture both, but chiefly the latter. To show how the public money is spent so as to impoverish the South and enrich other parts of the Union— to make Maine prosper, for instance, and Geor- gia retrograde in everything— must be very deep- ly interesting to the whole cotton planting inte- rest, who suffer so severely by the operation of the system. But to do this in detail would take up too much room. We can but refer to a few particulars as sjiecimens of the whole. Where are all the large and expensive establishments of the United States government — fortifications, armories and navy yards— all requiring, to keep them up, the disbursement annually of millions of money? Who ever heard of a public ship being paid off at Savannah or Charleston? Oh no ! — the millions that go that way must be paid out in Boston, New York and Philadelphia. What became of the millions squandered in the Florida war? The government, we believe, took good care that its favorites in that business should be chiefly Northern men. Look at the custom-houses and compare the miserable buz- zard roosts in Savannah and Charleston with the palaces in Boston, New York and Philadelphia, costing, each of them, millions of dollars. Why has the Post Office Department recently gone to New England and got printed fifteen tons of blanks to supply eight thousand post offices un- der the new law ? Gov. Hill is our authority for this. Why does the Navy Department go to New England for granite for building a dock at the Navy Yard at Pensacola? Answerus that, friend Holmes. The Government some years ago issued Treasury notes, bearing interest, some at six per cent, and some at one mill per cent. Somebody in Augusta asked another if he knew the reason of this difference. O yes, was the reply, the six per cent, notes are for the North— the one mill per cent, for the Sonth. Now we don’t, by any means, assert this to be a true account of the matter ; but that it furnishes a very apt illustration of the working of the sys- tem there can be no doubt. What say you, Mr. Holmes? These instances have been thrown together just as they occurred to us, v/ithout any attempt at arrangement for effect. They are but items m a very long account that might be written out. They are, however, fair specimens of the whole. Is it at all surprising that the cotton growing in- terest of the South should, with the late prices of our staple, be rapidly sinking under the opera- tion of such a system. When cotton could be sold for 15 cents per pound, the planter made money so fast and so easily that he either did not feel, or disregarded the load that was put up- on him by his government. But now, with an impoverished soil, and a price for cotton that for some years past has hardly paid the expense of culture, he cannot bear up under it with patience, And now let us ask the editor of the Maine Farmer, if he were to leave his frozen regions, come to the sunny South, and were in the habit of seeing all the.se things as we daily see them, and as they really are, whether in speaking of the working of such a system, and its disastrous effects upon the condition of the people among whom his lot was cast, he would not be most likely to use language, to which the term “ pet- ulant” would be altogether inappropriate, as be- ing too mild. From the Maine Farmer. “ Good Lecturing for Home Consumption. — The editor of the Southern Cultivator, Mr. James Camak, of Athens, Ga., occasionally gives his brethren of the “ sunny South,” some whole- some advice in his paper, occasionally mingled with a hit at us Northrons for meddling some- times with some of their institutions, and for be- ing as greedy of golden pelf , as they are improvi- dent of it. He is right in trying' to rouse up a different spirit in his section of country. With every advantage which nature could bestow, what hinders them from outstripping us in the race of industry and prosperity? Nothing but their own supineness, backed up by incorrect and futile notions of the servility of labor and the no- bility of idleness. The following, quoted from the Cultivator, shows the amount of their pro- ductions, and yet, with all their profusion, they cannot exhibit that evidence of thrift, comfort and independence that the North can. Why? Not from “ the pillage according to law,” which he, rather unjustly, not to say petulantly, refers to — by which, if we understand him, he means the action of the tariff, but from the other cause which he mentions.” [Here follows our article from the July number of the Cultivator, beginning with “Products of Southern Industry.”] “Now we should rejoice, (continues Mr Holmes.) to see the South rise up as one man and practice on the advice which he has so inith- fully given them. We should rejoice to see them carrying their surplus produce to Europe, in their own ships, manned by their own sailors. We should rejoice to see them starting up manu- factures throughout their territory, operated by their own citizens. Why may not the spindle and the shuttle be heard by the side of the cot- ton field? It would perhaps curtail the profits of the North somewhat, but it would be produc- tive of a great and singular blessing. It would create a unity of feeling between us — it would strengthen the bonds of the Union, in a common interest — it would do away with many false and ridiculous notions in regard to the respectability, or rather disrespectability of labor — and it would destroy much splendid misery that the world little knows about, and carry comfort and strength into many a family, that are now, perhaps, de- pendent on their fellow-beings for support. Here is another lecture which he reads them, under the title of “ Southern Folly” — he might have added, “ Northern Folly too,” for it is hard telling which ought to be rewarded with the greatest fool’s cap, the South or the North. Any community who will play the fool so emphati- cally as have the Southerners and Northerners, about two old mares, deserve to be reproved ev- ery day in the year.” [Then follows our article on ‘ Southern Folly.’] The Agricultural Press. The increase of Agricultural papers, in the Southern States especially, is very grati.fying. Since our last notice we have received the first number of the North Carolina Farmer, a very neat and well filled monthly, published atBa- leigh, at $1 per annum. The Alabama Planter, published weekly at Mobile, by W. W. McGuire, at So per annum, the first number of which we have received, is an exceedingly interesting paper, and, if support- ed, according to its merit, by the planters of that wealthy State, it must have a very happy influ- ence on their interests and character. On the 1st of October next will be commenced the publication of the '‘New Orleans Commercial Times — devoted to Commerce, Agriculture, Lite- rature and the Arts.” Tne Agricultural depart- ment is to be conducted by ourcorrespondent, Mr. Thomas Affleck. V/eneed not say with how' much ability the task will be performed. The pub- lic have evidence enough of that in the essays of Mr. A., heretofore published in the principal Agricultural papeis of the United States. The American Farmer, the oldest Agricultural paper in the Union, has been changed from a weekly at $3 per annum, to a monthly at $1. In its new form it shows a decided improvement in every respect. We wish its intelligent editor, Mr. Sands, all the success his spirit and enter- prise entitle him to. Judging from the two num- bers which we have received, the farmers of Ma- ryland are fortunate in having among them so able an advocate of their interests. The first number of “ The Farmer’s Library,’* by J. S. Skinner, has come to hand. So far as the publishers, Messrs. Greeley &, McElrath, are concerned, the work is very creditable to them. It is gotten up in very handsome style. This number contains three plates, two of which, the portrait of S. Van Rensselaer, and the picture of Southdown Prize Weathers, are admirable pro- ductions of art. Then, as to the Editorial de- partment, it is only necessary to sa)^ that J. S, Skinner has charge of it, to satisfy every one, that though the subscription is S5 per annum, the work will be really worth many times that sum. The first part of the number before us, 43 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 137 pages, contains part of Petzholdt’s Lectures to Farmers on Agricultural Chemistry. The se- c ond part, 64 pages, is made up of seventeen ve- ry interesting articles, all closely connected with the every day business of the tillers of the soil. Agricultural Statistics. The reports from tho Patent Office on the Agri- culture of the United States, have, for two or three years past, been by far the most interesting document emanating from the Government. Mr. Ellsworth will long be remembered for the industry and the ability with which this part of his duty was performed. It is the intention of Mr. Burke to continue these reports— giving them, it possible, increased interest and accura- cy. He can do this only by the aid of members of Congress, and their constituents. Mr. Cobb is taking the right course to get in his district the intormation wanted. Let his constituents, now, do their part. See Mr. Burke’s letter in anoth er part of our paper. South Carolina State Agricultural Society. The editor of the South Carolinian attended the meeting of this society, which was held at Newberry Court House, on 30th and 31st July last. From his account of the meeting we learn that the attendance of the members was not so numerous as could have been desired, but New- berry and the adjoining districts turned out in large numbers. On Wednesday, a Palmetto Banner v/as presented by the young ladies of the village to the McDuffie Artillery Company, com- manded by Capt. J. F. Williams. Mr. Bailey at the same time presented to the company a Silver Medal, made by himself, emblematic of the Ar- tillery service. The Newberry and State Agricultural Societies were then convened. Judge O’Neal presiding, in the absence of A. R. Seabrook. At 12 o’clock the annual address of the Newberry Society was delivered by Maj. Henry Summer. The after- noon was occupied in reading reports. The Ed- itor of the Carolinian says these reports are more substantial in their details than any he had be- foie read, and then adds: “ Thursday was the great day of the Meeting, and the village and grounds appropriated to the stock show contained crowds of spectators. The young ladies presented fancy work, which would not have been out of place in the boudoir of a houri, and the mats and wreaths of artificial flow- ers were peculiarly charming, and seemed to sup- ply the place of nature’s rosy children, which the drought had banished from the gardens. The more matronly dames, 'Hhe mothers of young Carolina," exhibited their offerings of useful do- mestic silk, woolen, and cotton fabrics, and patch- work quilts and coverlets, which tempted the most staid and incorrigible subjects of Bachelor- doTK. into the untried ways of Caudle-ism. We fancy these same "comforters" had a warming influence on many stony hearts, and look for ward to the fruits of their good examples, and their in- fluence upon the rising populace of the country with great hopes. “ The cattle show was superb. Horses of all ages champed impatiently their restraining bits— from the fiery steed, who would have acknow- ledged the dominion of no one, save an Alexan- der, or a "big nigger," and who would have borne the Knight Templar, or hurried the chariot of the victor at the Olympic games in furious haste across the dusty plains, to the mild suck- ling colt of the last spring— asses that would have astonished the donkey boys at Cairo — mules of better quality and higher form than the sacred beast which bore the Andalusian Monk and the fair daughter of Boabdil across the hills of Estra- madura — bulls that out-bellowed the most noisy of Bashan’s bovine thunderers — cows with dis- tended udders and glossy sides glittering in the sunshine — calves, as bread and graceful as a fashionable belle fresh from Madame Weaver’s magazine des modes — sheep with richer spoils upon their backs than the “ golden fleece” of Col- chis, and swine which grunted in the luxurious superiority of hog aristocracy, generated by the consciousness of the pwriiy of Berkshire blood, which coursed lazily through their stearine ob- structed veins, pinguid in their sleek obesity — all these were there contributing their prosperous looks to sustain the drooping spirits of agricul- ture. Visions of sweet rides, butter and cheese, warm jackets, hams, and fat-gourds, swam before our eyes in gay and giddy trains, “ But all these sights vanished from the nu- merous audience, when the ermine was laid aside — Themis forgotten — and our friend Judge Butler gave his charge in the Court of Ceres to a sensible and intelligent jury of farmers. Wo have often listened to agricultural addresses, but have never received more good advice, at the same time being highly edified, than on that occa- sion. Ho was very happy in his delineation of the popular agricultural and educaiional fallacies which prevail amongst us, and as we were leaving the Church, we heard a venerable hard-handed father of the plowshare say, “ That speech will do more good than any sermon ever preached in that pulpit.” Our readers may look out for a treat when we publish it. The village of New- berry exhibited all the characteristic hospitalities for which it has long been famed, to the dele- gates and visitors, and we trust everybody went home from the Fair delighted, instructed, and highly pleased.” Distinguished Farmers. In the J uly number of the Cultivator, we had the pleasure of directing the reader’s attention to an account published in that paper, of the farm and the extraordinary management of Mr. Cal- houn. We beg leave now to remind the reader of that account, and to request him to read, in connection with it, the accounts which we here- unto subjoin, of the farms of Mr. Van Buren, and Mr. Clay. “We copy (says the New York Farmer,) the following ‘ Personal Sketches’ from the Burlington Gazette, presuming that our ag- ricultural readers are always interested with what evidently tends to elevate the scale and heighten the pursuits of the agriculturist; and we take great pleasure in holding up as model farmers, those who, after having presided in the halls of legislation, and occupied some of the highest places in their country’s trust, have re- tired from the bustle and excitement of ‘ political life,’ and as farmers a rd agriculturists, doubtless enjoy more happiness tl;ian their elevated offices ever afforded them — There is nothing more instructive and salutary than the spectacle afforded to our young men, of those who have been eminent at the Bar and in the Cabinet, who have passed years in the midst of the fierce contests and engrossing excitements of political life, taking an active and prominent part in ihe improvement of agriculture and the useful arts, and exhibiting the spectacle of dig- nified retirement and profound enjoyment of the simple pleasures of rural and domestic life. Our country now enjoys many such examples. Mr. Clay’s farm is one of the best managed in Ken- tucky, and he has done very much for the general advancement of agriculture in the West, by in- troducing improved breeds of cattle, modes of cultivation, &c. Mr. Webster’s farm is smaller and less fertile, but is worth seeing. Jesse Buel, a printer by trade, after being for many years a leading political editor at Albany, became the model farmer and teacher of agriculture for an extensive region around him. A nd we are happy to learn, from the following article, that Mr. Van Buren is now pursuing the same path prosper- ously and happily. The following is from the Albany Cultivator: Visit to Lindenwald.— We lately passed a beautiful summer’s day in the vicinity of Kinder- hook. Among other places of interest, we visited Lindenwald, the seat of ex-President Van Buren, We found Mr. Van Buren at home, and accom- panied him in a walk over the farm. When he entered on the occupancy of his place, on his re- tirement from the Presidency, it was much out of order; the land having been rented for tw^enty years, and been under cultivation for the period of 160 years. Several of the buildings had be- come poor, the fences were old and were rotting down, and bushes and grass of wild growth had taken possession of the farm. During the short time it has been under Mr. Van Buren’s manage- ment, the place has been greatly improved, and a course is now fairly begun by which a handsome income may be derived from it. The garden and pleasure grounds have been enlarged and newly laid out — hot houses have been erected — and a large number ol fruit and ornamental trees, shrubbery, &e. have been planted. The green- house contains a collection of exotic fruits and plants, among which were some fine grapes, just ripening. In the garden we noticed some fine samples of all the fruits of the season, and some of the finest melons we have ever seen (so early in the year) in this latitude. Among the objects which give beauty and in- terest to the grounds, are two artificial ponds in the garden. They were easily made by con- structing dams across a little brook originating from springs on the premises. Soon aft’er they were made (three years ago) some fish were put into them, and they are now so well stocked with trout, pickerel and perch, that Mr. Van Buren as- sures us they will afford an abundant supply for his table. This is a matter well worthy of con- sideration. T’here are many situations where such ponds may be made ; and with trifling ex- pense, the luxury of catching and eating a fine trout or pickerel, may be had at any time. Several of the fields have been enclosed with new fences, and several buildings erected, among which is a very tastv farm-house, and a barn cal- culated for storing 150 tons of hay after being pressed. But perhaps the most important improvements which have taken place on the farm, have been made on a tract of bog land, thirteen acres of which have been thoroughly reclaimed, and are covered with luxuriant crops of grass or oats. Three years ago this land was worthless. It was first drained by ditches ; the stumps and bushes were then cut out and burned, and the ashes spread on the land. It was afterwards sown to grass— using a mixture of timothy and red-top seed— 3 pecks to the acre. The whole cost of re- claiming was S33 per acre, and the land will now pay the interest of a hundred to a hundred and fifty dollars per acre. In this Mr. Van Buren has set a good example, which we hope will be fol- lowed by the other farmers in the neighborhood who have lands similarly situated. The potato crop is one of considerable conse- quence on his farm, as well as on others in the vi- cinity. Mr. Van Buren raises the variety called Carters, produced from the ball a few years ago by the Shakers. _ He considers these by far the most profitable kind known. They yield well, and iheir quality is thought equal to any. Mr. Vp Buren assured us that all which could be raised would readily command fifty cents per bushel by the quantity in New York. All the crops appear to be well managed, and are pro- mising. Leached ashes were tried here last sea- son with excellent success. Great benefit has also been found from p’owing in clover. Mr. Van Buren keeps but little stock, a con- siderable object being the sale of hay. The man- agement of the farm is under the immediate su- pervision of Mr. Van Buren, who finds in it a salutary exercise for the faculties of the mind and body — such a state as to be highly enjoyed. In his rural retreat, removed from the care of state, and turmoil of political wars, he Now drinks the pure pleasure of a rural life. Henry Clay and Ashland. — Mr. Clay’s farm contains about eight hundred acres; and in all my wanderings, including even old New England, I have never seen the same number of acres in a body, a - handsome, as productive, as well fenced, and as well cultivated. His wood land is cleared of all underbrush and dead wood— his fields are enclosed with good fences, with the top rails all on, and not a weed or a brier in the corners — his hemp fields, &c. prepared with the skill and care 138 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. of a thrifty farmer— and he has a ten acre lot of corn, upon which he has bestowed extra labor and attention, with the view of obtaining the premi- um. Then there are his fine blooded cattle, sheep and horses, apportioned off into lots, ac- cording to age, and the use and purposes for which they are designed. Imleed, there is no spot in or about his residence or farm, that will not furnish evidence of his being a thrifty, pro- fitable, and practical farmer. True it is, that I had read and heard much of Mr. Clay as the “Farmer of Ashland,” but I regarded him as what is termed a “gentleman farmer” — as one who had a farm, but knew little and cared less how it was cultivated. But let any one walk with Mr. Clay over his broad acres — notice his inti- mate knowledge of every thing pertaining to farm- ing— hear him relate how he prepares and im- proves his lands, changes his crops, improves his stock, and yearly renders more and more produc- tive and profitable his extensive plantation — and he will then see with his own eyes, that one of the best practical and most useful farmers in this or any other country, is Henry Clay, the Farmer of Ashland; and he will also see and learn that the best butter and cheese in the Lexington mar- ket are made by Mrs. Clay, the wife of the Farmer of Ashland. Mr. Clay grows large quantities of hemp, and is connected with a son in a hemp manufactory. Such is a brief descriptive outline of Ashland, as it was last April. Mr. Clay’s house is a handsome and substan- tial edifice, the main body about 40 feet by 50, with wings of proportionate dimensions. It stands in the midst of a profusion of venerable forest trees, evergreens, and shrubbery, upon a gentle elevation in the center of a lot containing about 50 acres, and is some 40 rods from the road. A serpentine carriage way leads through the grove to the house, and numerous pathways, tastefully arranged, studiously preserved and im- proved, beautify his extensive grounds. His house is plainly but well furnished, containing many choice and valuable evidences of the re- spect and affection of his countrymen. Then there is a stone cheese-house and stone butter- house, Ashland being celebrated for the quantity of the butter and cheese made thereat. His chicken-house, dove-house, stables, barn and sheds, are all in perfect repair, spacious, neat, and in order. His fruit and vegetable garden contains about four acres, and in its arrangement and cul- tivation I saw 111 rs. Clay giving personal direc- tions. There is also a large green-house filled with choice plants and beautiful flowers. — Cleve- land Herald. Horticulture. — The accomplished Editress of the Boston Transcript, recently confined to a sick room, in relating some incidtnts connected with a visit to the Horticultural Hall opened in Boston on Saturday, says: “It was a day of delight to us, although pain would have kept us rivetted as in iron. The floral chain however was the conqueror, and the aroma of ‘nature’s jewels,’ was like the ‘inlal- lible pain extractor’ advertised as a wonder in all the newspapers. One of our New York contemporaries the other day lound a business friend m Woll-slreet {!) happy in contemplation of some Iresh flowers he was placing in a tum- bler, and on expressing his astonishment, the merchant calmly looked up to his visiter, with this salutation : “Ah, how d’ye do? lam try- ing to forget for a moment the turmoil around me, and enjoy these beautiful creations of an Almighty hand. Have you ever observed that the pleasure derived from perfumes and music is of all our physical enjoyments the most per- fect 1 If enjoyment is heightened in proportion as we approach the spiritual, what must be the blessedness of the good, when the physical is shaken off entirely, and this mortal puts on im- mortality !’” A glorious thought amidst the trials of busi- ness! The merchant was right, ax\& we would rather enjoy the after-blessings of such thoughts, than to inherit all the gold of Ophir, which is too apt to buy the soul and keep it wedded to mortality. Insects have great powers of smell, and most of the essential oils of plants are ofensive to them, and may thus bp used to exterminate them. ©riginal OTommumcations. Bermuda Grass. Mr. Editor: — Is it not astonishing how doc- tors wiZ? differ? There is not much danger, however, of their killing the patient, in this in- stance, it we may judge from the experience of one of your correspondents. One would think that a covering of green pine brush waist deep, a growth of briars so dense he could not stick a butcher’s knite into it, or a closely jointed plank floor over it, would destroy anything, even bit- ter coco 1 But there must be some mistake here. On reading the article in question, the first time, and finding the writer speaking of Bermuda grass growing luxuriantly in a dense thicket, standing “Irom knee to waist high, and as thick as grass gets to be,” I felt really pleased at the thought, that here was a grassthai would prove of greater value to the South than even the Ber- muda; but when I found him speak of stock eating broom sedge in preference to it I that was a damper. The gentleman can never have seen what we here call Bermuda grass. It cov- ers the commons of this town and Natchez, both of considerable extent; of course, there are pans ofthecommon set in other grasses — broom sedge and Natchez grass, which is almost as rough and coarse, being the most common. The Bermuda sod is always, and under all cir- Lumstances, unless, perhaps, where it has had a rank growth, encouraged by the wash from a sewer, stable yard or such place, closely grazed, whilst the other growth is comparatively un- touched. And it is a notorious fact, that wher- ever there are moderately good ranges of Ber- muda pasture, Z/^e stock is uniformly fat. As a hay-producing grass, it cannot be equalled. My little meadow here, though from situation and other circumstances, in a rather rough slate, is at this time a sight that would gratify any intelligent farmer. It cannot yield me less, rough though it be, than an average cut of three tons per acre of dry hay at this second cutting, and much of it will give me at the rate of over five tons, and I will get yet a third cutting. That it is a nuisance in a cotton field in which cotton has been grown for seventeen years in succession, as is not at all uncommon, no one can deny; but that it can be kept under perfect check by “ sowing the ground in small grain lor several years in succession, (this, alone, I never recommended,) or by cultivating {he p omA in any other way” is moZ a “notion founded on inexperience, ’’notwithstandingyour correspondent’s couteous assertion I How opposite is the experience of Mr. Fel- ton given in the next article headed “ Bermuda Grass.” The grass he speaks of must be what we call Bermuda here. I look with interest for answers to P.’s inquiries. Had I leisure at pre- sent, which 1 have not, I could give him some information in answer, but must, for the pre- sent, defer it. Let every man try this grass on a small scale and test the matter for himself; three or four years will do it thoroughly, and an eighth of an acre be scope enough, and that might be in some nook or corner whence it could not readily spread. As to its “ ruining the country,” there is but little danger of that. At the very icorst \i is not as troublesome as crab grass and tie vines combined ! For my part, 1 would gladly run the'risk of having it spread even to an uncon- trollable extent if I were the owner of a worn, washed, hii’l plantation, with a comfortable house and improvements on it. That it im- proves the land is certain— that stock give it a preference and thrive and fatten on it is equally certain ; it preserves the land from washing and makes it give a return in mutton, wool, butter, beef, pork, young mules, &c., such as it never gave in cotton or corn. Your readers may rely upon it, that I would be very unwilling to re- commend the introduction of anything likely to prove injurious. And I would here repeat the caution I have often given, not to trust to any man’s say sc, but try every new thing in a mode- rate way. Take a piece of poor hill land and get a good covering of Bermuda grass upon it and try it there. Most of the planters of the South let all of theirhill lands thatwill, and that ton the cream of them, find its way to the ocean without making an effort to prevent it. They might surely risk a few acres of such in trying a grass that others have found so valuable. One of the very best farmers in Mississippi, a farmer and cotton grower of thirty years’ expe- rience, told me that when Bermuda grass first got on one of his plantations, he found it so troublesome that he thought his place ruined, but that he quickly found he could keep it un- der sufficient check by the use of oats, peas and pumpkins, to grow full crops of cotton without extra labor, and now he considers it invalua- ble, and has beautiful pastures of it. Do not cease urging upon your readers the necessity of horizontal or side hill ditches. Pro- cure and publish all the information you can, lor and against, for I have no doubt you will find a difference of opinion and even of expe- rience there too. If imperfectly and improperly done, they arc much worse than useless, and had better be undone. Yours, &c. Thomas Affleck. Ingleside, Miss., July 15, 1845. Bermuda Grass. Mr. Camak I see in your valuable Culti- vator a great many inquiries on the subject of Bermuda Grass, and well there may be. Some wish to know whether it is a profitable grass or not; others wish to find out the cheapest plan to get clear of it. Mr. Cunningham says in the May number, “I consider information on this subject of more importance to the agricultural interest of our State than any other, and if it can be given satisfactorily, the man who does it will deserve not only the silver cup, but the thanks and gratitude of our whole community.” He says again, “ I would as soon try to drown a fish by throwing him in the water, as to kill Bermuda Grass by never so much working in the sun.” I must beg leave, Mr. Editor, to differ WM'th him entirely, and say that in my humble opin- ion planting hoed crops is the surest and the only way to destroy it. I had a field of about twenty acres spotted over with it, and I determined to destroy it. I planted it in cotton six years in succession, and worked it so frequently that the land was injur- ed, but the Bermuda was killed. I have a field of fifty acres or more that was matted over with it, and thrown out in consequence of it. 1 cleared a field by the side of this Bermuda field, and to have a straight fence, I took in three or four acres of the Bermuda with the new clear- ing. Some of my friends told me that I would scatter the Bermuda over the new ground and ruin it. I took the precaution, however, to cultivate it by itself. This was in the winter of ’41 and ’42. i planted it in cotton three years, and now I cannot find a sprig of the grass in it. In the winter of ’43 and ’44, I took in twelve acres of the old field, a solid turf except about half an acre. Last year I planted cotton on it and made a good crop. I have it in cotton this year, and I will venture to say there is not a handful ot Bermuda on the twelve acres. What remains may be found around the small stumps, which I expect to exterminate by the time I am done working it. 1 look in thirty acres more this year which were entirely covered with Bermuda except two or three small spots, about an acre and a half in all. I planted it in cotton, and as I have had such a favorable spring for killing it, 1 think I shall succeed in destroying it almost entirely this year. I will now detail my plan for destroying Ber- muda Grass. I commence about the first of December, for that is as soon as we can get the top killed by the frost in this part of the country — set fire to it and burn off clear so as to have as little stubble to contend with as possible. I then break it up broadcast with a turning plow, THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 139 being careful to take no more land than the plow can turn well, not more than halt the width of the plow, and no deeper than just to get be- neath the roots. I let it remain until there comes a freeze. About the first of January 1 lay it off three and a half feet with a scooter plow, and ridge it up with an Alien plow, run- ning lour lurrows around each scooter furrow, then 1 re-bed it once a month until planting time, throwing the ridge back in the middle each time, and exposing a fresh quantity of roots each time to the action of the cold and wind, being careful each time to plow no deeper than at first. The last time I re-bed it is at the time I intend to plant. Three furrows to the row v/ill make the bed, the last furrow with a good size shovel plow ; then I sow the cotton seed down in the middle and cover with a board. My reason lor this is to get the cotton in the clearest place of Bermuda. I plow it the first lime with an Allen plow, running with the bar next the cotton; then the hoe comes and takes away all the Bermuda roots from the cot- ton. The second time 1 run a short scooter as near the cotton as 1 can, very shallow; let it stand a few days, then plow out the middles with a shovel. After this, I hoe before plowing, so that the hoe hands can see and get out every sprig that is up. If I can get a dry month in May or June, I work it once a week. Whoev- er bestows this quantity of labor on a Bermuda field is sure to conquer the monster, and as I said before, I believe this is the only sure way to doit. He that undertakes it must wage a war of extermination. Anything short of that will only allow it an opportunity to takedeeper root. I am convinced that shading will not destroy it. Mr. Pitls, in his essay on Bermuda, has thrown light enough on that subject to convince the readers of your valuable work that shading will not do. I concur with him in opinion. One of your correspondents wishes to know if it will not be a good plan to plant Bermuda in order to improve land. My opinion is, that il the roots could be turned under and decompos- ed withoutsomuch workandexposure to the sun and atmosphere, it might improve the soil ; but being so much exposed evaporates the strength of it, and working the land so frequently injures it. 1 have thus given you some of my essays in Bermuda killing, and if you think them worth a place in the Cultivator you may hear from me again. In the meantime, if you wish certi- ficates for my statements, they can be furnished at any time. John W. Rhenev. Burke County, Ga., JulySlst, 1845. Bermuda Grass^-Raisiug Sheep. Mr. Camak:— I had intended to answer, in- quiries, in the July number, by “ P.” of Monroe, Walton county, which he proposes to you or me, or any others, relative to Bermuda Grass; but Diy engagements have been so great, that 1 could not then do so. He asks, first, what would be the expense of enriching land by planting this grass, and turning under, compared with the out- lay required when leaves and other like sub- stances are usedJ His several other inquiries are of kindred character, all wishing to know the cost and labor of enriching lands by this grass, &c. Now, in reply to all these, in one sweeping sentence, I advise “P.” if he has not this grass on his farm, to be sure and not intro- duce It. 1 have said, in giving you some of my experience with this grass, in your May num- ber, that it we could kill it, 1 would consider it a great improver to our poor, old, worn-out lands, and that it would be to us, what red clover is to the North ; yet I did not intend to encourage any planter to get it, who had it not already on his premises. Let then, “P.” resort to any other mode of manuring or plowing in green crops, to improve his lands, rather than by the Bermuda, till we, who have it in such profusion, can give him some less expensive way of getting clear of it, when we want to put the ground in cultivation with other crops. If he has it, we in- vite his co-operation, in finding out the secret, of how we shall give the death-blow to this vegeta- ble, which, I must think, has one life more than the cat, which it is said, has nine ; for I must think, I have killed some of mine, nine times, and I find it alive yet, which at least gives it ten lives. But, without jesting, the subject of Ber- muda Grass is becoming a grave question, and it is what we have yet to come up and meet as tillers of the soil, and learn to conquer, or it will conquer us. I am glad to see so many pieces on the sub- ject of this grass, as in less than ten years, it will be spread over this whole country ; and the sooner we learn to manage it, the better. It is to be to us, no common friend, or the most deadly enemy, and it surely behooves us to know in which of these characters to view it. And now, while I have pen in hand, let me make amends for having done so little for the “ Southern Cultivator,” by calling the atten- tion of every member of the community, who has a piece of land as large as a garden, (and if indeed he has none, he can be re-paid by other matter of general interest) to what “Jethro, of Reclusa” (see August No. page 123) says, of the utility of this periodical. And why should it not have its hundred subscribers, where it now has one? 1 subscribe to all he says, be- sides paying my dollar, which is, in all con- science, cheap enough ; and it shall have my thanks to boot, if its able conductors or its nu- merous contributors, will only aid me in mana- ging my Bermuda Grass. But again; this same “Jethro” calls upon you, Mr. Camak, for your aid, (as well as the Editorial corps of the State,) to a subject, “the success of which, will enhance one of the dear- est interests of Georgia.” “ Will our next Le- gislature not grant us a law for the encourage- ment of the raising of sheep, and the production of wool?" I call upon all whom it may con- cern, (and w'ho is there that is not concerned) to aid and strive to get the Legislature, in addition to the wolf law, w'hich I believe now exists, to at least pass a Dog Late. Here lies the root of all the mischief, and the preventive to our hav- ing, “ in less than five years, sheep upon a thou- sand hills.” But for this, I would add, w'e would have our thousands of sheep, upon our tens of thousands of hills, and as many valleys. I have tried it, and thousands of others have tried it : but w'ho can raise sheep, while every man, boy, and negro, has his dog running at large, that will kill as fast as you raise. Then let the Legislature say, no one shall have a dog, unle.ss it be confined in his yard nights, as well as day ; for night is the time the damage is done. Or require a tax of ten dollars, on all over one a man has or permits to be on his plantation, wiihafineof five dollars for every sheep such dog kills, on the owner of the plantation or pre- mises to which said dog belongs. Yours, truly, J- Cunningham, Greensboro’, Ga., August, 1845. Agricultural Tour— The Growing Crops. Mr. Camak:— I promised you in my last, be- fore setting out from Alabama, that 1 would give you such information on the subject of agricul- ture as W'e might be able to get on our tour to the West, East, and North. In compliance with that promise I now attempt to say something of what W'e have seen andheard of the growingcrop. We left Eufaula on the 4th June. The Spring had been cold and dry. The crop of corn was suf- fering for rain and warm weather, as well as cotton. On reaching Montgomery county, w'e were pleased to find the corn crop promising a large harvest, so far as we examined. We spent several days with my triend Dr. S. C. Oliver, who is quite a large cotton planter. He has upwards of one thousand acres in cotton; near halt that number of acres in corn, and a fine oat crop. His entire crop looked well. To have been, for the last sixteen years, engaged in politics, he has certainly accomplished much as an agriculturist. Circle-Wood, the resi- dence of Dr. Oliver, of Montgomery, Ala., is a most beautiful place. The lands being rich, if this gentleman would devote his talents to the improvement ol his fine farm, he would have one of the best plantations in the State. We visited the farm of Mr. Abner McGehee. This enterprising gentleman, who has done so much for the country in building up the rail road from Montgomery to West Point, owns a large and well cultivated farm. We found Mr. Mc- Gehee planting a mixed crop ; that is, corn and cotton planted together, the row’s running in the same direction. Both corn and cotton looked well when I saw it, on the 7ih June. The cot- ton crop on the rich prairie lands ol Mont- gomery, is said to be a verv uncertain crop. This is the reason given for mixing it with corn. I rode over the crop of J udge B ibb and found his farm in a high state of cultivation. This in- dustrious gentleman pays great attention per- sonally to his Agricultural operations. Judge Bibb has done much in the way of ditching. He has a number of ditches running in every direction so as to save his land from washing and secure a good crop the wettest season. In passing down the Alabama river, I con- versed with several planters residing on the river, who informed me that the crop of cotton of the present year was equal to the crop of 1844 in point of quantity of land planted, but that owing to the cold dry spring it was by no means promising, having been much injured by the lice. In passing up the Mississippi river alter leaving New Orleans you are delighted with the beautiful farms in the State of Louisiana. These sugar plantations present a most splen- did appearance. The entire land is in a high state ol cultivation, and beauiilul residences, surrounded by negro cabins, all painted white, gives the appearance of handsome villages. The first hundred miles alter leaving New Or- leans we were so fortunate as to pass up in the daytime. I say fortunate, as it is so common for the boats to leave New Orleans so late as to prevent one’s seeing this beautiful sight. I have no space to speak of towns and cities ; I will, however, say that St. Louis is ttie most growing city I have ever seen. The immense trade from that place is in tobacco, hemp, lead, cattle, coal, flour, pork, lumber, &c. We were informed by the farmers on board the steamboat that there was a considerable falling off in the cotton crop in Louisiana and Mississippi ; that many of the farmers were turningtheirattention to the growing of Sugar, instead of Cotton. One of the large steamboats, i learned, had gone down loaded with machinery trom Cincinnati for the preparation ol sugar. We left the Ohio at Evansville, Indiana. Here we took stages, and ha i an opportunity ol looking out upon the growing crop; and this being my first visit to the far West, I was, as you may suppose, much interested with the manner ofcultivation. We travelled the first day fifty miles, through the State of Indiana, to Vincennes. We found the corn and wheat crop, which is the principal cropol this country, much injured by the late heavy rains. Indeed, the entire country, lying on the upper Missis- sippi and Wabash, has been flooded with rain for the last month. We found the richest lands, as we passed on, in the hands of the most sloven- ly and careless farmers. The Wheal crop be- ing generally cut, was said to be much injured by the vast quantity of rain. We reached Vin- cennes at night, and found It a beautiful town on the bank of the Wabash. We crossed the Wabash at this place, and travelled some eighty miles, in the valley of this river, over the rich- est country of land I have ever seen. You tra- vel from morning until night over a perfectly level country; scarcely a hill in the distance; the timber generally black walnut, beech, pop- lar, &c. You occasionally come to a large prairie of ten or twelve thousand acres. Here you find a number ol families settled together, there being nothing to do on these prairies but break up the land, fence it in, and the first year you get from forty to fifty bushels of corn, and from twenty to thirty bushels of wheal to the acre. They plant the corn here four feet each way, and leave generally four stalks in a hill. 140 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. It aopeared lo nie to be sowed rather than plant- ed. * In this Stale the wheat is somewhat later, and the farmers will be able to save it much better than those in Indiana, as the weather is pleasant at this time anddr3^ And notwithstanding the lands are so rich, you see but little appearance of prosperity ; so true is it that where the Al- migh y does much for man, he is inclined to do but little for himself. I visited, a few days past, the extensive nur- sery of Mr. Curtis of this neighborhood. This gentleman employs ten hands in his nursery, sells yearly sixty thousand apple trees, all grafts of the finest kind of apples, and other fruits. He is making arrangements for raising shrub- bery and flowers. I visited a Col. Blackburn, of this neighbor- hood, and was highly pleased with his farm. He employs some 8 or lO hands. His nieado tv land presented a beautiful appearance. He raises 2^ tons ol hay per acre. He has 80 acres of this meadow set in timothy and clover mixed. It requires but one sowing in ten years. The stock of this gentleman is of the finest kind, all his cattle being the short horned Durham. They are fully equal to the cattle of Tennessee. 1 have found two Agricultural works here. The Indiana Cultivator is a work lately started at Evansville. From what I have seen of In- diana, there is the greatest want of Agricultural wmrks. The Prairie Farmer, published at Chi- cago, has entered its fifth volume and appears to be an excellent work, well adapted lo this lati- tude, Irom what I have seen of it. There is such a diversity of soil and climate between thiscoun- try and the south that a volume might be written. From what I have seen of Indiana and Illinois, although they have such immense bodies of rich lands, that can be bought at low prices, I would prefer the sunny South as a home, by far. Thus, my dear sir, 1 have attempted to throw together a few scattered thoughts that you are at liberty to throw under your table or publish, as in your judgment may be most proper. Your friend, Alexander McDonald, Paris, Edgar County, Illinois, July, 184.5. Mr. Burke’s Letter. Mr. Camak: — I hand you enclosed, the letter to which I referred, when in Athens. By calling the attention of your subscribers in this district lo the subject, and requesting them to furnish me with the information sought for, by Mr. Burke, we shall render important aid lo him in the preparation of his report. I am very res- pectfully, your obedient servant, Monroe, August 19, 1315. HoWELL CoBB. Hon. Howell Cobb, Athens, Ga. ; Sir:— Will you have the Uiiidness to furnish me with the estimate of the crops for the present season in your district, either personally or by the aid of others, with the causes of increase or diminution, and such other remarks as you may judge proper for the Agricultural Report for 1845. Wheat, as compared with the More. Less. crop of 1344, per ct. per ct. Barley, “ “ “ “ “ Oats, “ “ “ “ “ Rye, “ “ “ “ “ Buckwheat, “ “ “ “ “ Indian Corn, “ “ “ *' “ Potatoes, “ “ “ “ “ Hay, “ “ “ “ “ Hemp, “ “ “ “ “ Tobacco, “ “ “ “ Cotton, “ “ “ “ “ Rice, “ “ “ “ “ Silk, “ “ “ “ » Sugar, “ “ ‘‘ “ “ The per centage on the crop of the preceding year with as much accuracy as your information will admit. Also, please state the average daily and monthly wa- ges of labor (exclusive of board,) of husbandmen, and persons employed in the different mechanic trades, in your neighborhood, N. B. Please return this by the 1st of December next. Specimens of rare seeds will be most acceptable for distribution , I have the honor to be, respectfully, yours. Patent Office, May Vi, 1845. Edmund Burke. Eggs are exported from Cincinnati in great quantities. It is estimated that an aggregate of 2,176,333 dozens, or 26,115,996 eggs have been exported from or consumed there the past year. AB5I>aES§ OF 051. PHILLIPS, Delivered before the Agricultural Society of Habersham. Dr. Geo. D. Phillips : — Dear Sir — In obedience lo a resolution of the Agricultural Society of Habersham, we request of you a copy of your Address delivered before the Society on this day, for publication, hoping that others may enjoy the same pleasure in reading it that we did in listening to it. Yours, &c., Wm. B. Wofford, ) .1. W. H. Underwood, > Committee. James R. Wyly, ) Clarkesville, Ga., August 5th, 1845. Gentlemen: — Your note, as the organ of the Agri- cultural Society, requesting a copy of the remarks I offered to the Society at its last meeting, would have been replied to sooner if it had been in my power. From an injury- of the wrist, I have not been able to write, and but for its unreasonable length, should have sent you the original manuscript some days ago, but I could not think Mr. Camak would give it a place in the Cultivator. In attempting to curtail its dimensions, I am sensible of having lopped off some of its most valuable limbs, and have some misgivings about send- ing it into the world in its mutilated form. Do with it, however, as you think pimper, and accept my best wishes. Geo. D. Phillips. To Maj. J. W. H. Underwood, Gen. J. R. Wyly, and Gen. Wofford. ADDRESS. Mr. President: — As I flatter myself our So- ciety is destined to a long life, and as I may from time to time desire to say something on the va- rious subjects connected with agriculture, 1 will, on the present occasion, commence at what I consider the true starting point, and begin at the beginning. I lay it down as a proposition, sir, that cannot be successfully controverted, that any and every system of farming is defective, unless it is found- ed on a correct appreciation of the nature, the character, and the constituents of the soil. I use the term soil, as synonymous with earth, and not in its common meaning as applied to one or two inche.s of the earth’s surface. The soil or earth of the United States, indeed of the whole globe, might with propriety be di- vided into classes, corresponding to the primi- tive, transition, and tertiaiy divisions of our globe, and would be found to contain more or less of those salts and alkalies peculiar to each. We are here, sir, located in a primitive region, and our soil or earth is made up of the debris oi disintegration of granite, gneiss, mica slate, sienite, argilite, and the numerous combinations of these. Our soil contains only a trace of cal- careous matter, and so small a proportion of ve- getable extract that it must be regarded as a poor soil. I am aware that we have it from high au- thoiity, recently sanctioned by two of our emi- nent citizens before this community, that the upper part of Georgia, embracing Habersham county, is, all things considered, one of the most desirable portions of the United States. Sir, I have travelled from the Niagara to the Trinity, and from the Atlantic to the Mississippi. I have noted the character of the soil and its minerals wherever I have travelled. I have made com- parative estimates of the advantages and disad- vantages of districts, sections and States, and I do candidly think the upper portion of Georgia deserves to rank as one of the poorest. If man, sir, could have all his animal wants supplied by a salubrious air and pure water, then indeed would the region in which we live be a most en- viable one; but, as we require food to recruit the waste of strength, and covering to protect and adorn our bodies, we could not, even if we desired to do so, disregard the injunction of Hea- ven, that man shall live by the sweat of his face. In pronouncing our soil poor, Mr. President, I desire to be understood as saying, it is deficient in what some writers call humus, some geine, and others vegetable extract; and likewise defi- cient in lime, and every other calcareous matter. Let these be supplied in sufficient quantity, and I believe the rolling lands of Habersham county would be equal to any, at least of granite forma- tion, in the world. Now, the indispensable re- quisites of a good soil, sir, are, clay, sand and sili- ca. The two first in about equal proportions, with from ten to twenty per cent, of the last. Such a combination makes alight, friable soil, sufficiently retentive of moisture, not liable to bake, and easily penetrated by the roots of plants ; and it is in the power of every man, even those who know nothing of chemistry, to examine, and so far analyze his soil as to be able to decide correctly, if it possesses the requisite proportions of clay, sand and silica. This he can do by simply washing, boiling and weighing. The vegetable mould of our uplands is not more than from one to tivo inches deep. Let that be removed, ana by means of a hoe or spade take from bene th any given quantity, say one pound of earth, put it into a pan and carefully wash it as we pan out gold. After all the clay (which is soluble in wa- ter,) and the fine silica is removed, the coarse sand will be left, carefully weigh this and note the quantity ; then boil the water in which you washed out the clay, until it leaves in the vessel a mush -like paste, add more water, and after stirring up well pan out again more carefully than at first, and you will find in the pan perhaps neither gold nor coarse sand, but a fine brownish white powder or sand called silica, without which neither straw nor cornstalks can be rais- ed; now carefully weigh the silica, and if you find you have 40 parts of clay, 40 of sand, and 20 of silica in the 100, you have a good soil, perhaps the best that nature or art has ever made, and every deviation from those proportions, showing either an increase of clay or sand, will make your soil less valuable and productive. It is, there- fore, a matter of the first importance, that every farmer should examine his soil and ascertain its actual proportions of these indispensable mate- rials. If he finds an excess of clay let him add sand, if of sand, let him add clay ; either, alone, is unproductive, but blend them together in pro- per proportions, and by the aid of manure you have the finest soil in the world. I will now, Mr. President, offer a few views in support of this broad assertion. Clay is necessary to the fertility of all land, by its attraction for water and the adhesion with which it holds it. This is so great that during the most intense drought, such as w'e now have, clay preserves that humidity which is indispen- sable to the nourishment and life of plants ; and although the earth may be scorched wdth heat, and apparently dry as powder, yet the clay is still capable of transferring to plants some mois- ture, without w’hich they could not live. Clay affords to the roots of plants a substantial sup- port, and by its resistance prevents those roots from extending too far, thereby obliging them to throw out tufts of short fibrous roots, by which means each plant seeks its nourishment in a more circumscribed boundary, and consequently does not encroach upon the feeding grounds of its neighbor. Clay has a powerful attraction for oxygen, a material indispensable to the forma- tion of carbonic acid ; and lastly, it attracts ni- trogen, one of the great nourishers of plants. These, sir, are some of the most valuable proper- ties of clay, without which there could be no productive soil. But valuable as it is, it must not be in excess, as that would be highly injurious, from what I have said in detailing its good qual- ities. Forinstance, in periods of wet w'eather it becomes saturated v.dth w'ater which it retains too long, neither suffering it to percolate nor evapo- rate. In dry weather it becomes too hard and offers too great a resistance to the roots of plants. In frosty weather, owdng to the quantity of wa- ter it holds, and W’hich becomes converted into ice, it heaves, or, to use a common expression, it spews up so as to throw out or expose the roots of plants; and lastly, from its inherent qualities, it incorporates itself with the active qualities of manures and cannot be made to part with them so readily as the lighter soils do ; and hence the fact well known to most farmers, that it takes a great quantity of manure to make clay land rich, but when rich, it holds it a long time. Nor should 1 omit here to say a few words rela- tive to the difficulty and labor of cultivating a stiff'clay soil. In wet weather you can neither plow, hoe, nor harrow it, whilst in dry weather it contracts and becomes so hard that it is with difficulty plowed, and is then broken up in clots so as to require a roller or a long exposure to rains and other atmospherical influences before it becomes pulverized, which often does not hap- pen until the season is far advanced. Sand is injurious too, when it enters too large- ly into the composition of soil, because it is not sufficiently retentive ol water, but allows it to eva- porate and drain away, carrying off with it the fertilizing qualities of the manure. Nor will sand, to any extent, combine with the humus or vegetable extracts, or absorb carbonic acid or ni- trogen from the atmospheric air. Neither will sandy soils bear frequent cultivation, as it destroys all coherence and thereby impoverishes. And lastly, by being a good conductor of heat, THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 141 sand transmits the influence of severe cold orin- tense heat to the roots of plants, thereby sub- jecting them to hazard and injury. From these well known, but imperfectly considered facts, enforced by different writers of distinction, it is plain that a good and productive soil should nei- ther contain an excess of clay or sand, and con-' sequently our estimation of most lands should principally be based upon the proportions in which clay and sand are united in them. What those proportions are, I have already stated : 40 of clay, 40 of srnd, and 20 of silica. These pro- portions, it is true, may be considerably varied and yet have a fine soil, provided the sand and silica predominates; but these should never e.x- ceed 70 parts in the 100, and even then, large quantities of vegetable matter become necessa- ry and the manures are soon dissipated. Now, sir, if nature has not given us such a soil as I have indicated, can we not make it 2 To do so may require much labor. It may take a great deal of carting and hauling, but when the work is done it is done forever. Most of the fu- ture labor, apart from the enclosure, will be mak- ing and applying manure, and as that may be ap- plied in sufficient quantity, may we not calcu- late upon 60, 70 and 80 bushels per acre! If any one doubts it, let them make the experiment upon one acre or one half acre, and if the result should falsify my prediction, I hold myself bound to pay him for the full amount of his work. Our uplands, Mr. President, approximate a good soil, much nearer than do our valley lands; for, with the exception of a few fields, I k.uow of no bot- tom or valley lands in the county which do not contain either a great excess of argillaceous clay or of coarse granite: sand. There are only two fields within my knowledge in the beautiful val- ley of Naucoochee, two on Tugalo, and General Wofford’s plantation on Broad River, that con- tain anything like the proper proportions of clay, sand and silica. If you were to examine them, you would find about one-half of our valley lands, provided they have been drained, to have a rich looking, black, vegetable mould, from three to five inches deep, and underneath a stiff, hard- pan, or argillaceous clay. This kind of soil, when fresh, will give, even under the most im- perfect cultivation, 40 or 45 bushels per acre, but in a few years the soluDle matter of the vegeta- ble mould becomes exhausted, leaving nothing but a mass of inert, carbonized matter, which ■will not yield vou, under the most perfect culti- vation, aided by good seasons, ten bushels of nubbins to the acre. The land is, in common parlance, sour, dead land. Now, why is it dead! Why should it not produce your corn, rye, oats or other grain 2 Examine it with your pan, and you "Will find only 4 or 5 per cent, of clay, about the same quantity of sand, and still less of silica. All else, the great mass, is inert, carbon zed vege- table matter. There is nothing to fix and support the roots — nothing to attract moisture, carbonic acid or nitrogen — no soluble, rich juices to nour- ish a plant, and no silicate of potash, without which, neither wheat, straw nor cornstalks can be raised. But I may be as.ted how these lands for a few years produced such enormous crops without those proportions of clayj sand and sili- ca, for which I have contended. I will tell you why. For a few years, the mass of vegetable mould possessed cohesion enough to fix the roots and retain and transfer moisture. This supplied the place of clay. The porous nature of the soil, permeable to atmospherical influences, and easily penetrated by the roots, supplied the place of sand. It possessed silica enough to glaze the stalk and blades for a few years, and it was vast- ly rich in humus or soluble gelne, as nearly the whole mass was made up of decayed and decay- ing vegetable matter, and hence the enormous crops until the soluble geine or humus was ex- hausted. That these are truths, and not vision- ary speculations, I will now prove. Take a given quantity of this (so called) dead land, and spread over its surface fifty bushels of lime or double that quantity of unleached ashes, early in the spring. Harrow it in ; and at the proper time sow down in oats, barley or wheat, Siberian or Ita- lian, plow shallow to avoid sinking the lime or ashes too deep, and you will find this dead land resuscitated. It was not actually dead, but in a state of torpor only. The lime or alkali has waked it up, and you will find your labor and nurs- ing rewarded by a heavy ciop. I am sure I need not tell you how this has happened. It was the chemical action of lime upon inert vegetable matter, and the formation of rich soluble matter to nourish the plants. It likewise converted the remaining silica into silicate of potash to glaze the stalks and blades. But I may be asked again, if the occasional ap- plication of a few bushels of lime or ashes will keep these lands thus productive 2 I answer, no. They are radically deficient in clay, sand, and sil- ica, and a new soil has to be formed or you must abandon them. And the only question is, which will you do 2 Can any farmer hesitate 2 The whole substratum or subsoil is adhesive clay, or alumina. You have that at least in superabun- dance, and by the plow you can bring up to the surface what you want and no more. You have somewhere, not far off’, beds of sand or sandy clay that can be hauled on and spread over the field in quantity nearly equal to what you have brought up by the plow. This, together with the small quantity of sand and silica contained in the alumina or argillaceous clay, will make about the right proportions. Let this be done in the fall, and by spring, from the action of frost and other atmospherical influences, you will find the w'hole in a fine, well pulverized state. You w'ill now have all the elements of a good and durable soil, and one, by the aid of manure, vastly pro- ductive. We have, sir, in this and the adjacent counties, a considerable quantity of such land as I have been describing. It comprises, per- haps, one-half of the flat land on Soque, much in Naucoochee and Duke’s Creek valleys, some on Beaver Dam, and a portion of your farm at Currahee, and I cite you to all that part on which you have grown such heavy crops'of oats and such light crops of corn. There is, howev- er, considerable variety in these lands, even in the same valley, dependant upon variations in the quantity of sand and silica they may contain. Those belonging to you to which I have alluded, contain a fair proportion of silica, and hence the good crops of oats grown on them. Of this I wid satisfy the Society when I close, by exhibit- ing specimens from my own farm. Accident, rather than science, led me some years since, to investigate the character of these lands. Fora few years, after reclaiming my bot- toms, they yielded me heavy crops, as much as 56 bushels of corn to the acre. But they soon bs- gan to fail, and, at the expiration of seven years, would not pay for cultivation. About that time, having brought the adjacent high land, which was poor, into cultivation, a small quantity of the clay and sand was washed down on the valley, and I noticed an obvious superiority in the crop, as far as the clay and sand had been carried. The next year, the land was in corn, and I was still more forcibly struck with the improvement. No manure had been applied to the hill-side ; it was naturally poor and gravelly, and it was plain that the luxuriant corn wms not nourished by geine or humus. On what then did it depend! Clearly, sir, upon the accidental combination of clay, sand and silica. Many gentlemen present, must have v/itnessed similar results; and if they have, can more conclusive proof be necessary, as to what should be done! If it is, I have it at hand. When a portion of my valley land refused to grow a blade of oats, or a stalk of corn, as large as my thumb, I measured off three sections, or lots, of five roods square. On the first, I spread six bushels of lime; on the second, twelve bush- els of unleached ashes; and on the third, ten heavy cart loads of poor sandy clay ; and sowed all down in oats. The secuons receiving the lime and ashes, turned off a pretty fair crop; whilst the clayed and sanded section -vv’as not worth cut- ting. The succeeding spring, I applied one cart load of cow-yard manure to each of the sections, and planted them in corn. The difTerencs now in favor of the clayed and sanded lots, was marked from the time the corn came up, and made at least one-fourth more than either of the others. Now, sir, is not the reason as plain, as was the difference in the crop! The first year, the lime and ashes acted on the inert vegetable matter of the soil, and evolved nutritive juices to nourish the crop, whilst the clayed and sanded parts had no such aids. But the second year, when it had those aids, and a better soil, one made up of clay, sand, and silica, it far outstripped the others. Af- ter my valley lands had so rapidly and unex- pectedly failed, I was on the eve of converting them into pasture. The soil still looked rich and black as ever, and why it should not produce, I could not conjecture. In this dilemma, I opened a correspondence with J udge Buel on the subject. He attributed the defect to an excess of humic acid, and advised the free appdeation of lime. But that scientific farmer, and learned man, was mistaken. These lands, however, may contain some acid, but there is unquestionably a defect of clay, sand, and silica. 'I he application of lime would have neutralised the acid, and as we have seen, elaborate some geine fora single crop. But sand and silica alone could give a soil to produce crops, by the aid of manure, forever. I have already stated, sir, that the remaining half of our valley lands are sandy, and I might have said, contain a great excess of sand ; for I do not know one plantation on Soque or Tugalo w'here there is not a great demand for clay, to in- crease the fertility of som.e parts of the farm ; and I am convinced the owners of farms could not expend money and labor so advantageously in any other way to increase the productiveness of t’neir land, as the transposition of clay to sand, and sand to clay. Let the experiment be tr’ed on five acres, and I shall then feel satisfied it will be on five thousand. Is there a man present who cultivates a garden, and who exercises his judg- ment in its culture, but kno-w's that the addition of clay gives cohesion to sandy soil, and that sand and gravel, when mixed with a clay soil, diminishes its tenacious property ; and that these changes, thus effected, permanently increase the productive powers of both. If the opinion ad- vanced by most of the writers on agriculture be correct, (and I think they are sustained by expe- rience,) that the productiveness of a soil mainly depends upon its natural or artificial capability of retaining and transmitting moisture, by the agency of which nourishment is conveyed to plants, the necessity of adding clay to sand, and sand to clay, whenever there is a deficiency of either, cannot be controverted. And hence the necessity, in all our efforts to improve a poor soil, to examine it in connection with one that is rich. If the cause of sterility be owing to some de- fect in its constituent parts, such defect could be remedied. We are here, sir, surrounded by beds of iron ore in every direction, and many of our soils may contain such quantities of sulphate of iron, as to be highly injurious; and wherever that is the case, the use of lime is indispensable; but on the subjects of lime, tillage, manuring, and hill-side ditching, I may say something hereafter. From what I have said, in attempting to point out the natural defects of some of our soils, and the method of permanently improving them, I hope it will not be inferred that I consider barn-yard and stable manure as superfluous. No one ap- preciates their advantages more highly than I do ; but as T have now detained you too long, they must be reserved for a future occasion. Speech on Agricuiturea Mr. C.AMAK: — The following original speech was delivered by Mr. Alphonzo Rogers, Student of the Acad('my at Warrenton, Ga., on the night of the exhibition, 16th inst., which, by request of several citizens, I forward to you for publica- tion in the Cultivator, should it meet your appro- bation. Respectfully, H. E. Morrow. Warrenton, Ga., July, 1845. Fellow-Citizens: In travelingoverour State, we _may be struck with many instances of pros- perity and happiness, and many of decay and desolation. If the Indian of another century were to come from the land of the Great Spirit, and revisit these scenes of his former sports, he would be surprised at the changes which have taken place among his former hunting grounds. He would not merely behold the snow-white cot- ton fields, the rice plantations, and waving corn — he would not merely behold the flourishing towns and villages and splendid mansions, the rail-roads and improved navigation ; but in the older counties, he would be surprised at old fields worn out and overgrown with pine, and the gul- lies formed by the rains of half a century. He might say, the pale face has cut do'wn the groves, cultivated and i.mpoverished the lands, and now nothing is heard but the sighing of the winds among the pines — nothing is seen but the tracks made by the rains among the fields. The obser- vation of every reasoning and reflecting mind would respond to the sentiment of the Indian. Now, what has caused this sad reverse! Why have many splendid habitations been deserted, and why do the owl and the bat revsl in those 142 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. halls once vocal with the sound of mirth and prosperity'] No more are heard the woodman’s axe and plowman’s song among the hills, once presenting the appearance of abundant vegeta- tion, but now of red clay. The true causes I think, may be attributed to the over-anxiety of the farmer to become rich, and to ignorance of the principles of agriculture as they may be ap- plied to the soil of Georgia. Almost every farmer uses powerful exertions to acquire wealth. No sooner is the return in money received for one crop than he makes his calculations for another. He is always straining, and always in want of more. And as cotton has hitherto commanded a high price, he has cleared his land and made a continued succes- sion of crops until it was impoverished and use- less. Again the axe and the grubbing hoe have been heard in the woods, and the darkness of night been chased away by the burning of brush heaps — again the fields have become white with cotton, and the proceeds of it invested in the pur- chase of more hands or more rich land. Thus he goes on from year to year, without regard to the future condition of his farm, buying his hogs and horses from Kentucky, and his flour from the North, often using inferior implements of husbandry, until he disposes of that plantation, for which he paid thousands, for a few hundred dollars, and drags his family away from an abode always comfortable, often elegant, and endear- ed by all the associations of home and early days, and hastens to a western wild in order to plant more cotton. Many evils grow out of this prac ■ tice ; hence you find an unstable, fluctuating po- pulation, and the State in a few years loses its identity. The early habits of our youth may be corrupted in a strange and irregular state of soci- ety ; that stability ot character which all ought to possess maybe lost, and the principal element of patriotism, the love o^ home, may be destroyed. Of what use are internal improvements — of the construction of railroads and canals, and the buld- ing of manufactories, if the soil, which is the foun- dation of all prosperity, is impoverished and ren- dered valueless. We are ignorant, too, of the principles that lie at the foundation of agriculture. VVe are apt to imagine that it requires but little scientific skill to make a farmer. We follow in the footsteps of our fathers in farming, when w-e do not follow them in anything else. We traverse the land and navigate the ocean by steam. Did they do it Improvements are daily being made in every de- partment of science which they never dreamed of. But we have adopted the same routine in the practice of farming which they pursued. Itis a fact that corn, cotton and wheatare com- posed of substances essentially difleren t from each other, and each of these should be planted in that soil which contains substances most favorable to their growth. And every practical farmer knows that it is improper to plant the same crop always in the same field. Air, sun and rain will not make good produce unless there be good ground. Whenever, therefore, the soil becomes defective towards the production of a certain crop, ma- nures ought to be employed to supply the defi- ciency. Aswe l might we expect cows to give milk and horses to be in good condition for work, without the food necessary for them, as the land to produce well without manure. This is the point to which the farmer’s attention should be directed ; and hence the necessity of a knowledge of the properties of the different soils — in short, of chemistry as applied to agriculture. I believe the farmer ought to be educated for his profession as well as the doctor or lawyer for theirs. Our teacher has proposed to introduce into his school the study of agricultural chemistry, and we ought to embrace the opportunity afforded. — There is an agricultural paper, edited by one of the m St scientific and practical farmers in Geor- gia, which ought to be in the house of every farmer, and from vrhich we may acquire much knowledge. Our county has honored the cause of agriculture by the establishment of an Agri- cultural Society, whose benefits I hope will be felt far and wide; and it is to be hoped that ere long the farmer will take that elevated position in society for intelligence, industry and skill in his profession, to which he is justly entitled. Electricity. — A lemon tree has been made to produce several crops of perfect fruit in quick succession by the uss of the galvanic battery. Census of Hancock. Mr. Editor: — The Legislature of Georgia, at its last session, in making provisions for the taking of the census, negleoled to require those to whom that duty might be assigned, to take also, atthe same time, the Agricultural statistics of the country. Believing that such informa- tion would be valuable to our people generally, and desirous that it should be furnished, at least for Hancock, I sought and obtained from the Inferior Court the appointment, that the citi- zens of my own and native county might be in- formed, not only what they grew lor consump- tion and for market, but also what they bought which they could have raised, and what they paid for it. It has been the custom in Georgia to make cotton to purchase horses, mules, poik and flour, and from a people too that did not barter for any of our products. Nothing but our money would pay for their articles. That money never re- turned to us through any other channel, and of course such a trade has kept uo a continual drain upon the country. The opinion has been prevalent among us that it was cheaper for cot- ton growers to purchase their supplies than to raise them. A single view of the case would satisfy any one that the policy is bad, even when cotton hears a fair price. When cotton is bringing a fair price everything else brings a corresponding fair price, or when cotton sud- denly rises to a good price the rise of other ar- ticles IS simultaneous with it. But when cotton falls, it lakes a year or more, and sometimes two, for other articles to fall in the same ratio, and the farmer who has neglected to raise his own sup- plies, not only suffers by the reduced price of his cotton, but in having to pay the former or the same price for his supplies as when his cotton bore a high price. The result of my observa- tion is, that the farmers who made a little corn, wheat, oats, pork or bacon, wool, potatoes, and occasionally a horse to sell, and not more than three bags of cotton to the hand, was usually the money loaner, while he who raised eight bales to the hand and bought his pork, horses, mules and flour complained most of the hard times, and not unfrequently was the money bor- rower to the tune of sixteen per cent. The conclusion then is just, that it the farmers of Georgia had raised their own pork, horses, mules and flour, tanned their own leather, made the ir negroes’ shoes, clothes and blankets, they would be vastly better off than they are, and many would have been saved the mortification they have felt at seeing their property brought to the block, under the sheriff’s hammer. My object in laying the Agricultural statistics of Hancock before the public, is to arrest their attention on this subject; for what is true of Hancock, is true of the balance of the State, and the cotton growing region generally. The extent of this rule varies in the different sections of the cotton growing region, but everywhere its bad consequences are to be strictly measured by the extent, great or limited, to which the system is carried of raising cotton to purchase supplies, lam happy to believe that Hancock, in this par- ticular, has materially changed her course. Her expenditures are scarcely the fourth of what they were a few years ago. Now, the principle part of the pork bought is by the inhabitants of Sparta^ Mt. Zion and Pow'elton, and a portion of that supply is lurnished by the farmers of the county, the source from which the towns should be entirely furnished; for thus the money w'hich must necessarily be paid out by those whose occupations will not permit them to raise it, would be kept in the country. I am happy also to find that our farmers are supplying our towm with an excellent article of flour, and many of them are raising their own horses and mules. This I attribute to two causes : first, the very low price of cotton, and secondly, the influence oux Planters' Club, which has done much to improve the Agricul- ture of our county, and caused our citizens to think more correctly upon the subject of wear- ing out their lands to make cotton to purchase that which they could more easily make. I pro- ceed to lay before you the census of Hancock, the quantity ot crops and the amount of money laid out for supplies : Number of free white persons 3,642. Slaves and free persons of color, 6,407. Free white males between 6 and 16 years, 605. Free white females between 6 and 15, 504. Slaves, 6,348. Free persons of color, 59. Deaf and dumb, 8. Lunatics, 5. No, of bushels Corn raised in 1844, 362,856. Bushels of Wheat do., 17,683. Bushels of Oats do., 31,880. Pounds of Ginned Cotton do., 3,826,892. Pounds of Pork raised do., 1,491,460. Pounds of Pork bought, not raised in the State do., 228,749. Pounds ot Flour bought, not raised in the State, 13,750. Horses and mules bought, not raised in the Stale, from the 1st of April, 1844, to the 1st of April, 1845, 82. Amount paid out for horses and mules, pork and flour, not raised in the State, for the year 1844, S 13, 205. This statement approximatesas near the truth as it IS possible, unless every man had kept a strict account of what he had made. From the foregoing statements it appears that Hancock raised by the last crop 3,826,892 pounds of cotton, which at five cents, about the average price received for it, brought into the hands of the farmers, S191, 344.50. Deduct the expense of freight, storage, care, &c., at S4. 25 per bale on 9,567 bags, the number it would take to pack the crop, and we have the total necessary expense amounting to $40,657, W'hich deducted from the amount received would leave in the hands of the farmers $150,685 of net profits. From this take $13,205, the amount expended last year for necessaries, and you have the amount ot money left in the hands of the farmers in the county $137,480. It will be seen by this calculation that the amount expen- ded for supplies is a little over 8 per cent, upon the net profits received on the crop. By apply- ing this to the State, and taking only sixty-five out of the seventy-five counties in the State that grow cotton for market, and taking Hancock as the average, it will be seen that the net receipts of the State is $9,794,525, and the expenditure of the State for necessaries that she could make herself would be $858,325. What an amount for such an injury, as I think I can prove it to be ! Is there any one who will doubt for one mo- ment that Georgia could raise $858,228 in pork, horses, mules and flour cheaper than to raise the money, by growing cotton to pay for it, to say nothing of the advantage accruing to our lands in the raising of those necessary supplies, and the actual independence of the people. But again, let us apply this calcula'ion to the whole cotton growing region, and as the per cent, paid out by Hancock is perhaps below the average paid out by the whole, I will assume twenty per cent, as the average, and 2,400,000 bales as the number of the last crop; from which deduct tw'enty per cent., and you have left 1,920,000 bales. The question is, what increase ot price would decrease of quantity give ? There is no rule. by which this question could be correctly answered, but supposing that 2,400,000 bales to be only a full and plentiful supply, and knowing that there is a daily increase in Manufactories, and a continually increasing demand for the manufactured articles, it is sate to say that the price w'ould increase, at least in the same pro- portion as the reduction in quantity, an I thus we would have the same amount of money in the country for 1,920,000 bags as we now have for 2,400,000. And it is probable that the in- creased price would in a year or two go to fifty if not one hundred per cent. It is easy to pre- sume that a country would be more prosperous and happy to raise her supplies within herself than to purchase them from another, especially when it is remembered that the former course will keep an equal, if not a greater, amount of money among them at home, and atthe same time THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 143 protect them from the disastrous vicissitudes of a foreign trade. It may be asked, after all my positions are admitted to be true, how this is to affect the in- dividual where there is no hope of arresting the selfish and heedles-; course of the cotton grower in his single undivided aim for quantity. The diminution of my crop, or of many crops, will have no effect on the market, but on the contrary will put the less amount of money in the pockets of those of us who attempt such a policy. Al- though I may be no worse off for raising my necessaries, and may have the same amount of money that I would have on my old plan of pur- chasing them, I cannot conceive that I am any better offl To this it may be answered, that cotton is a very unstable article in its price, and governs the prices of everything else. When it rises, everything rises "^simultaneously with it; but when it falls it takes two years for other articles to fall in the same ratio; for the very plain rea- son, that when cotton is high every energy is bent on the production. Thiscreatesdeficiency in necessary supplies, for which, the demand being too great for the quantity on hand, the price necessarily keeps up. Now if you had raised your own supplies you would only suffer the diminution in the price of cotton, and it you have not, you will have to bear also the same price for these necessaries which you had to pay w'hen yourcotton brought a good price. Again: by curtailing the cotton crop we v;ould be en- abled to improveour farms, sothatina fewyears we would be able not only to raise a full supply for our own consumption, but some to spare to neighboring towns, and our usual quantity of cotton also. And this is not all ; for the increas- ed value given to our laboring capital, in en- abling it to yield a better interest, and the market- able value we may, from year to year, add to our lands, will be no small consideration if we should want to sell them. Is it not belter, yes, far better, for the farmer to make his own supplies and a little to spare, and then what cotton he can 1 In conclusion, I call upon the farmers of my native county, and, if it would not be considered presumption, of my native state, to examine this subject with an eye single to their own in- terest, as well as the interest of the whole com- munity at large, and that of posterity, and, as one man, to rally to the rescue of our long abused calling. It is time we had claimed for ourselves a more elevated position. It is time we had learned that this government is mainly depend- ant on and sustained by us ; that all trades and professions are dependant on our success for bread— that posterity has claims onus which we should not disregard. Let us meet the State Agricultural Society by delegates from every countv in the State, from county societies, and there unite our efforts in devising the ways and means lor improving the Agriculture of our beloved Georgia. Let us petition the Legisla- ture in mass, as one man, to give us aid in the accomplishment of so worthy an enterprise, an enterprise which aims to carry the lights of Agricultural science to its remotest and hum- blest votaries, and thus bless the world for ever. Sparta, July, 1845. R. S. Hardwick. Inquiries. 1. When manure, especially animal ordure, and heavy compost are hauled out to the field, is it better, after covering it directly w'ith the fuming plow, to let the land lie fallow lor one year before planting, turningin the weeds dur ing the fall over the same field 1 2. If manure thus once covered in be turned up to the surface, by the action of plowing in the weeds which afterwards sprang up, (on land one year to lie fallow,) would the fertile pro- perties of the same evaporate ? Or does ma- nure in six months so incorporate with the soil as to escape all liability, or to any injurious de- gree, of evaporation, from a vertical sun or the air, of its strength? 3. Must not all deep plowing on hilly land be ever horizontal, from the great drain on the soil in heavy rains? 4. The act of putting sand on hilly clay land — is there any utility in this, if the sand then ren- ders the land too susceptible of washing away — I mean in the fertile ingredients, and the sand itself — particles of silica being so apt to float on violent torrents or pass along the course of wash- ings? J. J. Flournoy, Wellington, August, 1845. Sheep Raising — Information Wanted, Mr. Camak: — A communication in the last number of the Cultivator, over the signature “ Jethro,” who promises to contrast the compa- rative merits of the different sections of Geor- gia for the raising of sheep, and the breeds best suited for those sections, has attracted my no- tice. As I wish to engage in the business of sheep raisin?, I feel a deep interest in hearing from “ Jethro” at his earliest convenience, and ascertaining his opinions as to the breeds that would best suit the different sections of Geor- gia, and where they can be procured; and further, to have his views as to the best management of sheep. I make these inquiries in order to get correct information on the sub- ject, hoping you will excuse me for them. Respectfully, Raytown. Qlgricultitrnl illeetings. Georgia State Agricultural Society. In accordance with a resolution passed at the organization of the Association in March, the following gentlemen have been appointed by the President on the several Committees, viz: On ike Agriculture of Georgia. — Wm. Turn- er, of Putnam; B. S. Jordan, of Baldwin ; Jo- seph Willingham, of Oglethorpe. On Grains. — R. S. Hardwick, of Hancock; Richard Rowell, of Baldwin; James Grubbs, of Burke, On Stock. — Miles G, Harris, of Hancock; S. Grantland, of Baldwin; J. M. Adams, of Putnam. On such plants as may be profitably introduced, and xohich are not noxo cultivated. — Iverson L. Harris, of Baldwin; Eli H. Baxter, of Han- cock; Allen Inman, of Burke. On Manures.— Wm. Farrar, of Putnam; John W. Moody, of Oglethorpe; Isaac P. Whitehead, of Hancock, The annual meeting will be held in Milledge- ville on the 2d Monday of November, when re- ports from the several Committees will be ex- pected. J. R. CoTTiNG, Cor. Sec. A. A. G. Alilledgeville, Augxist 5th, 1845. Agricultural Meeting in Clark. At a meeting of a portion of the citizens ot Clark county, held in Watkinsville, on the 5th ot July, for the purpose of organizing an Agri- cultural Society, the Rev. Joshua N. Glenn was called to the Chair, and John H. Christy requested to act as Secretary. The following resolution was offered by G. B. Haygood, Esq: Resolved, That in our own opinion the interest of the country calls for the formation of Agri- cultural Societies in the various counties of the State, auxiliaiy to the State Society at Milleoge- ville. Which, after a few forcible remarks, setting forth the advantages arising from such organi- zations, was unanimously adopted. On motion, it was Resolved, That the Chair appoint a com.nit- tee of three to prepare for the consideration of the meeting a plan of organization for the So- ciety. Whereupon, the following individuals were appointed, viz: G. B. Haygood, Esq., Maj. Thomas Mitchell, and Richard Richardson, who having retired a short time, reported the following CONSTITUTION. Art. 1. This Society shall be called the Clark County Agricultural Society. Art. 2. Its object shall be, to collect and dif- fuse information concerning Agriculture and its kindred arts ; and to encourage and improve the same amongst ourselves. Art. 3. Its officers shall be a President, five Vice-Presidents, a Secretary, and a Treasurer, who shall be elected annually by the Society. Art. 4. The President shall have power to appoint all such committees as the Society shall, from time to time, deem necessary, for the promotion of the objects of its organization, and to fill the vacancies in all the offices below' him till a regular meeting. Art. 5. There shall be an annual and quar- terly meetings of the Society, at such times and places within the county, as may be determined on by a vote of the Society, or established by its by-laws. Art. 6. The President, or in his absence either one of the Vice-Presidents, may call an extra meeting upon the request of five members. Art. 7. The Society shall hold an annual fair for the exhibition of such products as it may think fir to encourage. Art. 8. The Society shall pass such by-laws as it may deem necessary lor carrying out the objects of its organization. Art. 9. Five members, including two offi- cers, shall constitute a quorum to transact busi- ness. Art. 10, This Constitution may be amended by a vote of two-thirds ot the members present at any regular meeting, notice thereof having been given at a previous meeting. Art. 11. Any person may become a member of this Society by paying the admission fee, not less than one dollar per annum, and by sub- scribing this Constitution. Which alter having been read, and slightly amended, was unanimously adopted. After the adoption of the Constitution, the meeting, on motion of G. B. Haygood, Esq., proceede 1 to the election of officers — wheieupon, the following were duly elected for the next twelve months. President — James Camak, Esq. Vice-Presidents — Rer. J. N. Glenn, Maj. Thos. Mitchell, Col. Samuel Baylie, Jno. Gor- don, Wm. L. Mitchell, Esq. Secretary — Sidney B. Payne. Treasurer — G. B. Havgood. Alter which, the following resolution was adopted : Resolved, That the President, with two or more ot the Vice-Presidents, be authorised to procure some suitable person or persons to ad- dress the Society during the W'cek of our next Superior Court — and at all regular meetings of the Society, On motion of G. B. Haygood, Esq. Resolved, That the proceedings of this meet- ing be published in the “ Southern Whig” and “ S'luthern Banner.” The Society then adjourned to meet on Thurs- day of our Superior Court. Joshua N. Glenn, Chairman, John H. Christy, Sedy. Burke Co. Central Agricultural Society. In compliance with a resolution passed at the last meeting of this Society, the following Stand- in? Committees have been appointed, and will report to the annual meeting in January next : On Corn. — Messrs. B. B. Miller, J. B. Jones, B. E. Gilsirap, Charles Whitehead, Ezekiel W illiams. On Cotton. — Messrs. James Whitehead, J. C. Poylhress, John Carswell, Samuel Dowse, W m. Sapp. On Small Grain. — Messrs. John Whitehead, Mathew Carswell, M. P. Green, John Dow’se, Edmund Gresham. On Slock. — Messrs. A. J. Lawson, Alexan- der Carswell, H. V. Mulkey, A. H. Anderson, Gideon Dowse. 144 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 071 Manures.— Messrs. M. C. M. Hammond, Wm. Byne, C. W. West, a. Skrine, Wm. Ow- ens. Geo. W. Evans, President. Compost for Wheat. — For every acre of clayey ground which you intend to put in wheat, prepare enough ftompost, as follows, to allow a dressing oi ten double horse cart loads, say oi 40 bushels each. Take 10 loads of loam irom the woods, or the same quantity of rich mould, or well rotted manure, 1 bushel of salt, 10 bushels of char- coal, 1 bushel of plaster, 10 bushels of ground bones, 10 bushels of lime, add 10 bushels of ash- es. Let these be well incorporated together ; after letting the whole remain a few days, tarn over the mass, and, as mixed together, add twen- ty gallons ot urine to each ten loads; taking care to sprinkle plaster over it as the operation is being performed. A compost thus formed, will comprise all the constituent elements which the wheat needs, either lor the formation of the straw or der?i/, and will prove to be the means of greatly increasing the quaribity and quality of the product of the latter, while it will also tend to maintain fertility in the soil for several years, and thus augment the yield of subsequent crops, whether they be grass or grain. The above would be an admirable mixture also lor a corn crop. — American Farm.er. Bees generally eat more honey than they col- lect alter the 1 st of August. “SHE’S NOTHING BUT A COUNTRY GIRL.” A young lady, daughter of an agriculturist, after hav- ing been introduced to a company of professed ladies in a neighboring city, heard one of them remark to the others in a low tone, accompanied with a scornful smile, “ She’s nothing but a country girl.” Upon her return home, she sent the scornful iMiss a note, which contained something like the following lines : I know that I’m a country girl, Andmorethan this, I know That such far rather I would be. Than her I’m writingto— For pride of heart, and scornful mien, Detestedare, wherever seen. A country girl ! and what is there, So dreadful in the name ? Though” verdant,” yet I’ve too much sense For that to blush for shame : For it will ever sound as well To me, as that of city belle. I would not change my country home. Where nature’s scenes o’erspread, For one where earth can scarce be seen. Or blue sky overhead, For all the wealth and splendid din. Your ‘‘ languid beauties” revel in. What think you of our mother Eve, Who dwelt in Eden fair 3 No luxuries which gold procures. Or dainties nice were there— And as there were no cities then, A country girl she must have been ! I hope for this you’ll not deny Your ancient parentage : Unless yourself from all our race. You wish to disengage— If so, I pray let old and young Be now informed from whence you sprung I But if, as still I apprehend, You are a girl of sense. And that it is from pride of heart. You make such vain pretence : Please know, humility of heart-' Does to our sex new charms impart. When next in some disdainful mood, To say you are inclined, “ She's nothin? iiU a country girl !” This couplet bear in mind— That scornful lips and haughty air Ne’er made a homely face more fair- hi. B. Spring Valley. 0., April, iSio. HOTA'MIV GARDEN AND nursery — (LATE PRINCE’S,) FLUSHING, L. I., NEAR NEW YORK. THE NEW PROPRIETORS OF this ancient and celebrated NURSERY, late of ““ William Prince, deceased, and exclusively de- signated by the above title for nearly fifty years, offer ior sa.\e, at reduced prices, a. mote extensive variety of FRUIT AND ORNA.MENTAL TREES, Shrubs, Vines, Plants. &c., than can be found in any other Nursery in the United States, and ihe genuiiie- ness of which may be depended upon ; and they will unremittingly endeavor to merifthe confidence and patronage of the public, by integrity and liberality in dealing, and moderation in charges. Descriptive Catalogues, with directions for Planting and Culture furnished gratis on application to the new proprietors, by inaH, post paid, and orders promptly ex- ecuted. WINTER & CO., Proprietors. Flushing, L. I., August, ISlo. 0 2' COUTEWTS OF THIS HUMBER. ORIGINAL PAPERS. Agricultural Press, the page 136 “ Statistics “ 137 “ Society, South Carolina State, , . “ 137 “ Tour— the Growing Crops “ 139 Address of Dr. Phillips, delivered before the Agricultural Society of Habersham “ 140 Bermuda Grass, by Thos. Afiieck “ 138 “ “ by .1. W. Rheney “ 139 ” “ — Raising Sheep “ 139 Census of Hancock “ 142 Distinguished Farmers — Visit to Lindenwold — Henry Clay and Ashland “ J37 Inquiries “ 143 Maine Farmer, the “ 136 Meteorological Journal for 1845 “ 135 .Mr. Burke’s Letter “ 140 Speech on Agriculture “ 141 Sheep Raising— Information Wanted “ 143 SELECTIONS, EXTR.ACTS, &C. Crops require to be Fed as well as Animals. . .page 131 Cheeseology “ 134 Economy “ 134 Good and Bad Farming “ 130 Mad Itch... “ 13U Horticultural Outline “ 129 Horticulture “ 138 Peas, nutritive qualities of “ 133 Poetry — “ I’m nothing but a country girl,” ... . “ 144 Raspberrry, on the culture of the “ 133 Symphytum or Comfrey “ 131 The Grape and Wine Making “ 132 Talking vs. Doing — Remarks on the- Past — Hints for the Future “ 132 Wash for the Hair “ 134 Wheat, compost for “ 144 Yeast “ 135 AGRICULTURAL MEETINGS. Agricultural Society, Georgia Stale. page 143 “ “ Burke County Central. , “ 143 “ Meeting in Clark. “ 143 GAiaa>lEN AND FIEI-,D SEEDS. A GENERAL assortment of fresh and genu- ine Garden and Field Seed, among which are the following : Red and white clover. Blue and green grass. Rye and orchard do Timothy and herds do Millet and Lucerne do Seed corn of every valna- Buekwheal ifepolato oats, Seed wheat, [ble variety Kept constantly on hand by the subscriber, all o which are offered for sale at very moderate prices. .All oiders, by mail or otherwise, executed with neat ness and despatch. Wm. Haines, Jr., 1 No. 232, Broad-street, Augusta, Ga. 'i'USaNEP SEED. A SUPPLY ol the following varieties of fresh Turnep Seed, just received, viz: Yellow Sweedish or ruta baga, very fine for stock, Large globe turnep, “ While fiat do “ Hanover or white ruta baga do “ Norfolk do For sale in quantities to suit purchases 1 Wbi. Haines, Jr., Broad-st. IFine for table use. AGSSfiCEE'ffEISAE I ISPEEMENTS. Hazard, denslow & webster, Savannah, Geo., near the City Hotel, Dealers in PAINTS, OILS, WINDOW GLASS, GUNPOWDER, SHOT, PAPER, AND AGRICULTURAL IMPLEMENTS. In audition to their usual stock of the above named articles, the subscribers have, within the last year, made large additions to their assortment of Agricul- tural Implements, and now offer to planters a greater variety than any other establishment in the Southern country : amongst which may be found the following articles, viz : PLOWS. Yankee cast iron. No. 10, 11 12and20 Plows. Dagon, or Connecticut wrought No. 1, 2 and 3 do Allen pattern, do Ruggles, Nourse &Mason’s improved do Viz : — Eagle plow, heavy, two horse or ox, do do with wheel and cutter, do No. 2 B Plow, for two horses, do with wheel and culler, do medium, two horse, do with wheel aud cutler, do light two horse do do one mule, or garden do do one horse turning do do do do do newpatterii, 1 horse, for light soil, da heavy, two horse, or ox do No. 1 do do do do 0 one horse do Double mould-board or furrowing do Colton trenching do Rice do with giiage wheel, do A1 side-hill, or swivel mould-board, do No-O do do for one horse, do Plow irons set up, of the above kinds: also, extra stocks, which can be packed in small compass, thereby making a great saving in transportation. Mould-boards, “ 2 B do “ A 3 do “A3 do “ A 2 do “ A 1 do “ G in. do “ 7 in. do “ 15 do Rubsoil do do do do do points and heels or landsides, for all the above plows. Improved cultivators, with guage wheel Cultivator plows, or horse hoes, Common Harrows Folding do improved kind, Boxed lever straw cutters Improved self-feeding strew and corn stalk do, with spiral knives, simple in construction, Corn and cob crushers (hand mill) do do for horse power HOES. W. A. Lyndon’s extra black, Carolina hoes,Nos.0, 1,2 &3 do bright do do 0, 1,2&3 do new ground do doPP&PPP do oval eye grubbing do do 2&3 do round do do do 2rtly conveyed the thanks ol the meeting, the learned Professor withdrew. A Maryland Fai-m. From the Albany Culliva'.or. Yesterday I returned from a visit to Georgs Patterson, Esq., who resides at “Springfield,” twenty-two miles west of this, in Carrol county. He is a wealthy gentleman, and is extensively known for his fine stock anJ enterpri-ing cha- racter. His farm contains 1.735 acres, about 1,200 under cultivation, and 509 in. wooiland. It is rolling land, and well watered — a hransh of the Petapsco running through it, supplies water for a grist mill, on liie iaraf, where all the grain raisedon the farm is grounii for the fami- ly and stock. The woodland is admirably lo- cated to shelter the many fields from the north- west winds, and presented a beautiful and di- versified landscape. The timber was formerly oak, but as it is removed is supplanted by a spontaneous growth of iiickory and chestnut, principally the latter. Mr. Paiterson has cu: out much of the old limber to bu-n lime, and' also with a view to get rid of it to admit the young gro wth of chestnut. 5Vhen Mr. P. took possession of this farm, twenty years since, the land was poor, much al it very poor, and barren of vegetation, except brio,rs, with scarcely any buildings. Since then he has pul upw rds of one hundred and sixfv thousand bushels of lime on the land, and erect- ed fi.dy buildings of variou.s kinds, all perma- nently and neatly built, "and now all y.eilow washed, presenting in cHjntra.st with the green fields and woods, a picturesque appearance. His plan is, whenever a fiel.f is brought into cultivation, and made to produce clover for mowing, to erect as many barracks as will hold the hay. These barracks or barn.s, are made of frame, some 20 by 30 feet .square, 12 or 14 high, v'eather-boarded, and covered with cypress shingles. Mr. Patterson commences on the poor worn- out land by spreading two hundred bushels of lime per acre ( neasuredat the kiln unslaksd,) on the surlace, and lets it remain twvo or three years, then breaks it up and nuts whatever dung he car. muster, and plants it in corn. The fol- lowing is his system of rotation First year, corn ; secoud year, oats, rye or wheal, and do- versowed in the spring; third year, clover, first year mowed, seco: d crop left on the ground ; fourth year, clover eiiherle.fi on the ground or modf-rately grazed ; fifth year, wheat, timolhv .sowed with the wheat; sixth year, timothy mowed ; seventh ye.ar, timothy mowed; eighth year, grazed; ninth year, grazed and top-dress- ed the last fi)nr years. Top-dressing he prefers to plowing in the manure tf any kind. Lime, he thinks, ads slowly, and does not show much the first year or two, and should be always ap- plied to gras.?, and noton fallow. Much of this land is now in a high state of cu’tivati.m, pro- ducing 20 to 30 btishei.s wheat, 60 to 80 bushels c .m, and tedo to tluee toris hay per acre. The contrast between ibis farm and some of the ad- joining land is wondrt ful ! The one' green and luxuriant in crops, the other barren and devoid cf vegetal i n, ha ving no green thing except a few low running briars. This land wms abo very stony. Y'ith the stoues Mr. P. has turn piked several roads across his farm, which enables him to haul woo.d, linre, and manure in wet weather. He has al- so a pplied a portion ot these stones to making drains. He -.make.s drains by cutting a ditcii lour feet deep, and filling two feet with fine bro- ken stotics. Swamps and swails heretofore useless, are no w made dry, and are among the most .productive parts of his land". The fences are in prime ordTr — the few worm lences that he has are eleven rails high, staked and rider- ed, and six feet worm. The greater part are post and post and raiis — upwards of ten thou- sand pannel — po.?i> of mountain locust. A few chestnut posfs he has. been compelled to use, and these he protects from decay by filling round with stones, which drain the water rapidlv off’. His barns, where the greater part of the cat- tle and hogs are fed in ifie winter, are situated on two opposite knolls, and drains are so ar- ranged as to convey the wash from both to per- manent meadows adjoining. His stock is all of ihe most approved kind, and pure in blood. Of horses, there are severa 1 full blood mares of high pedigree and beamy. “ Mary Randolph,” a superb mare ct rare good points, a gray, has a filly one. year old, the handsomest creature I ever saw. He has in all sou'.e twenty-fivm or thirty fine horse's of va- rious ages. At present he is about crossing .these mares with a la.''ge, well-formed horse, a cross of the Canadian— similar to the Morgan horse — with the. view of increasing the .«ize more suitable for carriage or'drali horses. Flis herd of Devon cattle, about sixlv in number, are a rare lot. I I had heard of the Devon cattle and seen the prints renre.sf-n'ing them, but 1 had no idea of their beaipy. -The prims, of .^ome of them, are res. at least of Mr. Pauerson’s best cattle. His b''u]!, “Eclipse,” im.pprted two or three years since, now rive yea.''S old, is a perfect getn, the best bull of any stock, not ex- cepting my old layorites, the Durham, that I have ever .seen. Tne cows bava fine shaped and well d-evelnped udders, and must be good milkers. Mr. Patterson says they give rich milk, and a good deal of it. Be has bred his stock with tiiat object, and selected the best millc- ing families. They have s^ze enough^the bull would, weigh 1000 lbs. net beef — the cows are also large enough. They have fine siiaped yel- low noses, with a ring of the same round the eye — all uniloxm as so many peas. What will you think it I tell you that ihjs will bec’ome the favorite stock before many years? The beef, you know, is celebrated tor its fine quality, be- 'ing so evenly mixed, lat and lean, instead of laving the fat on the surface.. Here I also saw upwards of seven'y Berk- shire store hogs — hoy /l7.<, in the clovef field— and as many sucking pigs intended for next year. The sows are allowed but one litter each year, and they all have pigs in May. Mr. P. has a fine flock of sheep, some full bkiod Downs from the flocks of Mr. Rotch, N. Y., and Cope, of Pennsylvania. Everything, is done herein the best manner, and all the stock is of the best, without regard to price. The whole establishment is well worth j one hundred thousand dollars. 1 have notdone j credit in ihe description. Mr. Patterson rnana- ! ges the farm himself''— h-as no white man on the I place but himself, and is a pattern ia industry j and frugality, even to Pennsylvania farmers, i His neighbors are beginning to follow his ex- j ample in the use ol lime. A few years hence I have, completed Mr. Patterson’s plans of j improvement, and then he will have the best I larm in Maryland. Isaac Dillon. I Eu'ara House, BnUiwore, Mo.y 20, 1845. j A Virginia Farm. I An agreeable correspondent of the Easton I (Fa.) Vv hig, in -the coarse of a recent tour to j the valley of the Shenandoah, gives the folio w- I ing account of the fine residence and farm of a j Virginia planter : j Virginia Farming. — Col. Tulley, who is ad- I mined to be one of the best farmers in northern I Virginia, has about 1200 acres in his planta- tion, of which about 000 are under cultivation, and which is wholly surrounded by a solid limestone fence six' miles iu length, and vary- ing from 4 to 6 feet in height. He hat vests this season 500 acres of wheat, which, notwith- standing the sev'ere drought, he expects will j yi-hi him about 12,000 bushels. One is st.ruck I in looking over his fields to see how free all are ; from other grain and weeds. I asked him how 1 it was ibal in a field of 100 acres of most excel- ! lent wheat not a spear of rye was visible. He said it wds owing to the great care he took in j cleaning his seed wheat. That if twice clean- : ing did not suffice he hau it cle.'ned again and again until it was free from improper seeds. The editor of “ The Vallej'' Farmer” thus de- scribes in a late editorial, the process of cultiva- tion pursued by Col. Tulley ; “ in the cultivation of his farm. Col. T. pur- sues what is call the ‘five years’ shill system,’ and is as follow's : he lakes a field two years in clover, and turns over the sod in the month of August or early in Sepiember. From the 5th to the 15;h of Ociobc.r, he sows a bushel and a half to the acre, and harrows it in. After the wheat is cut the field lies and becomes covered j with a thick and strong growth of ragweed, la I the following spring he turns up with a plow’, I and plants to corn before the middle ot April. I The corn is planted four feet apart each xvay, I and eight or ten kernels to the hill. The culti- vation is principally done with a plow, begin- ning as soon as the corn is fairly up, and plow- ! ing it both ways about four times in a season. At the second plowing :he hoe follows, and the corn is thinned to two stocks in the hill. The hoe is seldom u.sed but once, and the corn is hilled no more than the plow will do il. When she corn is so ripe thht it will mature in the stock it is cut, and the land put into wheat. Someiimes he sowson the seedand plows il iu; ■S' meiimes he firs' plows and then sows and har- rows iu the seed, being governed by the ground. Afierthe wheat is so wn the field is seeded iu clover. After Uie wheat is harvested nothing j is permitted to go upon th-e ground to disturb j the young clov^'er. The field then lies t wo years j 111 clovei;, when wheat again follow's in the j springof each year, half a bushel to an acre of I plaster is sown on ibe clover, and heavy crops ol grass are iu this way secured. In this course w)f farming he once raised from two acres of land 80 bushels of wheat; from a field of sixty acres, he averaged more than 30j bushels to the acre, and from afield of thirty acres. 65 bu ■ shels sbeli corn to the acre. He considers the clover anrt the plaster as the principal means ot improving the soil ; yet he is very careful to al- low no manure to be wa.sted. On the contrarv, he makes large quantiiies of it annually, which he applies to the highest parts of his fields, turn- ing it under with the plow, which he prefers to using it as a top-dressing.” The harvest had co.nmenced the day before we arrived, and it. was a pleasant sight to look upon. Six or eight cradlers went ahead. They were followed by as many rakers, they by as many binders, while another group finished all THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 148 up. Besides this crop the Colonel has about 200 acres in corn and other summer crops in proportion. His sheep and cattle are ol the best Leeds, and in his herd are several buffalo cows. The Park.— Over 20 fallow deer and a num- ber of elk sport in his park. The early dawn is ushered in by the sweet carrolling of feather- ed songsters that here have no dread of man, for no gun is allowed to be shot upon the pre- mises. The consequence is, that the birds make their home within the reach of the very windows, and thus sweet dreams are made still sweeter by the delightful music that accompa- nies them, and which, mingling with the bright visions ol fancy as you be half sleeping, hall waking, make you almost wonder as you open your eyes, whether you are not in the region so glowingly described by the Eastern labulists. In the woods too, the squirrel chirps in the tree above you and gambols Irom bough to bough to attract attention, not knowing man to be his foe. Another great advantage of this benificent rule is, that the trees and plants in the neighbor- hood are preserved uninjured by those destruc- tive insects that are doing so much evil to flow ers, fruit and grain throughout our land. The Garden. — Adjacent to the pleasure grounds the Colonel has his fruit and kitchen garden, containing about three acres, surround- ed by a high brick and stone wall, aid filled with the finest kind ol fruit and vegetables. In it are lound over a dozen varieties ol the straw- berry, the choicest raspberry and other beating bushes, A spacious garden-hr use gives great convenience in the cuhivation of the ground and gathering in and preservation of its pro- ducts. The basement is fitted to store away the winter vegetables. Ihe first floor holds and keeps from injury Ircm weather the gardet. tools and implements, while above is a capacious and well arranged pigeon-house. But although much attention, as is seen, has been given to the useful, the ornamental which tends to soften and minister to the kindlier leelings receives also the care of the Colonel and bis fascinating lady. The Green-House.— Besides the beautiful flowers that line the many w’alks ol the pleasure grounds and are interspersed throughout them, a fine green-house evinces the great taste for the beautiful that peivades the owner. In re- lation to it the editor of the Valley Farmer thus writes ; “ In the green-house we noticed a large col- lection of exotics, the fragrance of which, w’hen the folding doors w’ere thrown open, emitted an odor through the rooms that reminded us ot those strange romantic tales which lovers de- scant so much about, and which nine-tenths of them never realize even in their dreamy imagi- naiicns, Col. Tulley showed us many rare spe- cimens of the rose, honeysuckle, the magnolia, the Rose ot Sharon and the Lilly ot the Valley, so be; luilully mentioned in Scripture, and the Builrush o! the Nile, such as formed the ark of the infant Moses. There we also found the Lemon and the Orange tree blossoming and bending ’neaiti the weight of their luxuriant fruit. There are many more rare plants which we should like to take notice of, but as w'e miut bring our remarfs to a close on this subject we would merely mention in this place, that the m( St beautiful flower blooming in this vast col- lection, is the smiling, laughter-loving native called ‘ mine hostess' ” We observed in the finest specimen of the wax plant we have ever seen, a perfect curiosi- ty covering half of one of the sides of the green- house, filled with clusters of those delicate flow- ers. An Alabama Plantation. By Gov. Hiu, Editor qf the Farmer's Monthly Visitor. The county of Montgomery, of which the busy town of the same name is the capital, is said to be the most wealthy agricultural district ot the State: at this place several citizens of New Hampshire have located and resided with- in the last twenty years. In a somewhat hur- ried journey home from New Orleans, the edi- tor ot the Visitor was induced to stay over at Montgomery one day, by old friends w’ho soli- cited a longer tarry. Mr. Seth R,obinson, an old trade acquaintance of this towm, who has resided through all the vicissitudes of prosperity and depression for several years at Montgomery, and is now set- tled down in a prosperous business, desiiing to show us the specimen of an Alabama farmer, took us an afternoon ride seven miles out of the city. Passing on the great road from Montgo- mery eastward toward Georgia, by several beantilul plantations, and many extensive en- closures devoted alternately to a forest growth and cultivated fields lor cotton, corn and the other cereal grains, he brought us to the pre- mises of Col. Green Wood, a planter who emi- grated here several years ago from the State ol Georgia. This was the 4th ol April, and ve- getation was then in the condition of what we mieht expect to be in New England on the 4th of July. For nearly two miles before we reached his house, on both sides ol the road, did we pass successive enclosures ot his plantation, iii which cotton or corn had been planted or grain bad been sowed — all of it with as clean culti- vation as a New England garden : the rows ol cotton in a direct line to the dis ance of one hundred rods and hall a mile, straight as an ar- row, were traceable by the naked eye. The fences of this country, for w hich there has been abundant materials ready at hand, are of a kind which we in New England call the “Virginia fence.” They are made ot split rails of hard wood, and to that caietui height of seven or eight feet, wl ich would seem to be sufficient for shuttiDff out the fleetest deer. The habit of careful farming is shown in Alabama by the safe fences surrounding each cultivated field. That part of the fence nearest the ground soon- est decays ; and w’e observed, as the older rails w ere crushed down at the bottom, their places were supplied by new ly split rails at the top. The mildness uf the climate renders it unne- cessary to pay that particular attention to the construction of houses, barns and sheds that w e of the north must do from necessity. Little more is necessary there than to make a roc t for the protection ol cattle and crop- ; the negro re- sidences are sometimes without floor of hoards a single outside boarding or clapboarding is deemed lor them sufficient. Indeed, the rich owners themselves often occupy houses which would not be regarded as comlortable by the poorest tenant of the north. I'he habitation of Col. Wood, decorated with ail the artificial em- beilishmenis of a flow’er garden and beautiful parterre on either front, was surrounded at no- g’-cat distance w'ith the numerous dwellings ol the lamilies, wdiich do all the work upon his extensive plantation. The first noise that ar- rested our attention was the busy hum of the spinning wheel and the song of its operatives from the dwellings ol the colored people. The enterprising owner of the premises w'asnotat home himself; hut meeting us at the door and inviting our entrance was his wife, a lady ol plain dress and great sociability of manners, who at once mage us at home in a warm day by the invitation to glasses of sw^eet ice-cooled buttermilk, and a walk into an extensive gar- den, clothed in all the rich beauties of early ve- getation. Here we found— and the reader’ will mark the day to the4lh of April — rich head let- tuce fully grown and grow-ing in the open air, ripe strawberries and full g'-own peas: as an evidence of the early season, Mrs. W ood pluck- ed from the tree a lull sized fig which then only remained to be ripened. Fronting this garden of several acres, w'as another larger enclosure of flourishing peach, apple and other fruit trees which had then gone out of blossom. The family residence of Col. Wood was a well-finished and elegant wooden house of a single story. There were wide halls with en- trances on the four sides, so that in whatever direction might be the wind, the house had the advantage of airing: these halls embraced near- ly hall of the whole area. Separate on each corner were large and ample parlors or sitting rooms, and one or more suits of bed rooms. The height of the story and the rooms was ten to twelve feet. This house was constructed for comfort in w'arm rather than cold weather: the weaiher in that part of Alabama is never cold, and seldom only cool. The extent of farming in Alabama may be conjectured from the fact that Col. Wood has one thousand acres annually under the plow. Good calculations make the work there compa- ratively easy, because the milder climate ad- mits of work in the preparation for crops nearly the whole vear round. All the heavy manual labor in the fields is the work of horses and mules. The virgin soil in that State is so rich that the planters hitherto have paid little attention to manures. The facilities for mak- ing barn and stable manure are not in the cot- ton region as great as at the North. Col. Wood found means in various ways to make a large amount of manure in the last season; he dis- posed upon a portion of his plow land one thou- sand mule or horse can loads, tor whicn pur- pose he employed four carts wiih the drivers durins the last winter. His manure was taken from the staMes and from the cattle, sheep and hog yards. Of his cultivated lands five hundred acies are devoted to Cl tton, and an equal amount to corn, w'heat, rye, oats, &c. The one-half of the farm lurnishes mote than (he whole amount cf meat and bread for the laborers, by w'hom also the clothing is manufactured from the cotton and wool grown upon the premises. The prin- cipal part, if not the w-hole of the cotton crop, must be regarded as clear profits. A force of thirty to forty mules or horses wiih their drivers, kept up during the greater part of the year, is sufficient for the cultivation of these many acres, A more happy set ol laborers can hardly be conceived than the slaves upon the plantation ofCol. Wood. Thedaily task of those engaged in the out door work is easy; and they have murh time every week which they call their own, with opporiunities to cultivate their little garden plot, to raise and feed poultry, with other extra privileges. They ate all well led and clothed in the abundance wihich the plantation produces, with liitle of the concern w hich poor ;p?ople ol other countries experience. Upon the faces of the colored people which we saw about the premises health and corrtentment were depicted ': the women chanted with their voices ot song and music correspondent to the move- ments of carding and the buzz of the spinning wheel. Col. Wood had tw o overseers, white men, to superintend the plantation concerns. One of these in the short lime of our tarry, showed us about his premises, which would do credit to the best New England tanner. As the better method of furnishingabundant meat at all times, he has five hundred hogs of the different sizes. Belter than the hogs which abound in the :nrests ol the West and the South, appeared the ani- mals of Col. Wood: he had not only been at the pains to introduce an improved and mainly of the Berkshire breed, but his hogs were deci- dedly more fat than we had seen elsewhere. They ranged in an open forest ground and pas- ture of many acres; and in addition to this only usual method of keeping and feeding hogs in that country, they were daily led with corn in the ear scattered over the ground in which they rooted and made manure. No hay is cut in Alabama: a general sub- stitute in feeding horses, mules and cattle is the corn shucks or husks, being the leafy part which is stripped from the principal blade and done up in bunrlles. The straw-' of W'beat with other kinds of grain and the grain itself is also ted out to the horses and cattle. The cows, inmost instances, range the woods in search of food, and through the forests of Alabama and Geor- gia w here we passed, seemed to be but skele- tons, like the lean kine of Phai'aoh. Col. W. had a fine drove of the milch kine, large, fat and sleek, and a notable bull which the overseer THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 149 iiilormed US was obtained from Col. Jaques, of Charlestown, Mass. A flock of over a hundred first rate sheep, a mixture of the Leicester with ihe native breed, were kept mainly for the wool necessary for the family clothing. On the whole, the view of such a splendid plantation as that of Col. Wood’s, a thousand acres under ihe plow, yielding, on the lowest calculation, a clear profit of ten dollars to the acre — the business under overseers who make the different gangs of cheerful workers operate like the machinery of a clock ; a portion of the grounds every year improved by the generous use ot manures; the crops all gathered and sa- ved in due season, as they are grown, almost without the apparent care of the owner ; the surplus annually sold to furnish any desirable amount ot funds lor any desirable purpose; — who would not think the evil of slavery such as e.xists upon this plantation even tolerable, and who would not envy the condition ol an inde- pendent Alabama farmer like Colonel Green Wood? Barn Yards. The follo wing “ iSt’/ftar/rs on the Construction and Manasement of CaULe Yards” are from the pen of the late Judge Buel, of Albany : Vegetables, like animals, cannot thrive cr subsist without loud; and upon the quantity and quality of this depends the health and vigor of the vegetable as well as of the animal. Both subsist upon animal and vegetable matter, both may be surfeited with excess both may be injured by food not adapted to their habits, their appetite or their digestive powe.rs. A hog will receive no injury, but great benefit from free access to a heap ot corn or wheat, where a horse or cow will be apt to destroy themselves by excess. The goat will thrive upon the boughs and bark of trees, while the hog would starve. The powerful, robust maize will re- pay, in the increase ot its grain, lor a heavy dressing of strong dung, tor which the more de- licate wheal will requite you with very little but straw. T.he potatoe feeds ravenously, and grows luxuriantly upon the coarsest Jitter, while many ot the more tender exotics will thrive only on food upon which lermentation has exhausted its powers. But here the analo- gy stops: for while the food of the one is con- sumed in a sound, healthy, and generally solid state, the food of the other before it becomes ali- ment, must undergo the process ot putrefaction or decomposition, and be reduced to a liquid or aeriform state. I have gone into the analogy between ani- mals and vegetables thus far, to impress upon the minds of our farmers the importance of sav- ing and of applying the food of their vegeta- bles with the same care and economy that they do the food of their animals. How scrupulous- ly careful is the good husbandman of the pro- duce of his farm destined to nourish and fatten hts animals ; and yet how often careless of the food which can alone nourish and mature his plants : while his fields are gleaned and his grain, hay and roots carefully housed, and eco- nomically dispensed to his animals, the food of his vegetables is suflered to waste on every part of his farm. Stercoraries we have none. The urine of the stock, which constitutes a moi- ety of the manure of animals, is all lost. The slovenly and wasteful practice of feeding at stacks in the fields where the sole of the grass is broken, the fodder wasted, and the dung of lit- tle effeci, is still pursued. And finally, the litlle manure which does accumulate in the yards, is suffered to lie till it has lost full half of its fertilizing properties, or rotted the sills of the barn ; when it is injudiciously applied, or the barn moved to get clear of the nuisance. Again: none bm a slothful farmer will permit the flocks of his neighbors to rob his own of their food ; yet he often sees, but with feeble ef- forts to prevent it, his plants smothered by pes- tiferous weeds and plundered of the food which is essential to their health and vigor. A treed consumes as mtich food as a useful flant. This, to be sure, is the dark side ol the picture, yet the original may be found in every town, and in almost every neighborhood. Is it surprising that under such management our arable grounds should grow poor, and refuse to labor its accustomed rewaid? Can it be considered strange that those who thus neglect to feed their plants should feel the evil of light purses as well as of light crops? Constant draining or evaporation, without returning any- thing would in time exhaust the ocean of its waters. A constant cropping of the soil with- out returning anything to it, will in like man- ner exhaust it of its vegetable food and gradual- ly induce sterility. Neither sand, clay, lime or magnesia, w'hich are the elements ot ail soils, nor any combination of part or all of them, is alone capable of producing healthy plants. It is the animal and vegetable matter accumula- ted upon Its bosom or which art deposits there, with the auxiliary aid ot these materials diflu- sed in the atmosphere, that enables the earth to teem with vegetable life and yield its tribute to man and beast. I w'lll now suggest a cheap and practicable ' mode ot providing food for vegdables, commen- surate to the means of every farmer of ordina- ry enterprize; and that my suggestions may not be deemed theoretical, I will add, that I “ prac- tice what I preach.” The cattle yard should be located on the south side of and adjoining the barn. Sheds, sub- stantial stone walls, or close board fences should be erec ed at least on the east and west sides, to shelter the cattle from cold winds and storms ; the size proportioned to the stock to be kept in it. Excavate ihe centre in a concave form, placing the earth removed upon the edges or lowest sides, leaving the borders ten or twelve feet broad, of a horizontal level, to feed the slock upon, and from two to five feet higher than the centre. This may be done with a plow ana scraper, or shovel and hand-barrow, alter the ground is broken up with the plow. I u.sed the former and was employed a day and a half, with t'vo hands and a team, in fitting two to my mind. When the soil is not sutiiciently com- pact to hold wmter the bottom should be bedded with six or eight inches of ciay well beat down and covered with gravel or sand. This last la- bor is seldom required except where the ground is very porous. My yards are constructed on a small loam, resting on a clay subsoil. Here should be annually deposited as they can be conveniently collected, the weeds, coarse grass and brakes of the farm; and also the pumpkin vines and potatoe tops. The quantity of these upon a farm is very great, and are collected and brought to the yard with little trouble by the teams returning from the fields. And here also should be fed out or strewed as litter, the hay, stalks and husks ot Indian corn, pea and bean haulm, and the straw ot grain not wanted in stables. To still farther augment the mass, leached ashes and swamp earth may be added to advantage. These materials will absorb the liquid of the yard, and, becoming incorporated with the excrementitious matter, double or tre- ble the ordinary quantity of manure. During the continuance of frost the excavation gives no inconvenience, and when the weather is soft the borders afiord ample room for the cattle. In this way the urine is saved and the waste in- cident to •rains, &c., prevented. The cattle should be kept constantly yarded in winter, ex- cept whfn let out to water, and the yard fre- quently replenished with dry litter. Upon this plan from ten to twelve loads of unfermented manure may be obtained every spring for each animal; and if the stable manure is spread over the yard, the quality of the dung will be impro- ved and the quantity proportionably increased. Any excess ot liquid that may remain after the dung is removed in the spring can be profitably applied to grass, grain or garden crops. It is . used extensively in Flanders and in other parts of Europe. Having explained my method of procuring and preserving the food of vegetables, I will proceed to state my practice in feeding or apply- ing it. It is given every spring to such hoed crops as will do well upon coarse food, (my ve- getable hogs and goats.) These are corn, po- tatoes, rula baga, beans and cabbages. These consume the coarser particles ol the manure, which would have been lost during the summer in the yard, while the plow, harrow and hoe eradicate ihf weeds which spt ing from the seeds it scatters. The finer parts of the food are pre- served in the soil to nourish the small grains wtrch follow. The dung is spread upon the land as evenly as possible, and immediately turned under with the plow, It is thereby bet- ler distributed forthe next crop, and becomes in- timately mixed and incorporated with the soil by subsequent tillage. Thus, upon the data which I feel warranted in assuming, a farmer who keeps twenty horses and neat cattle will obtain from his yards and stables, every spring, two hundred loads of manure, besides what is made in summer, and the product of his hog- sty. With this he may manure annually ten or twelve acres of corn, potatoes, &c., and ma- nure it well. And if a proper rotation of crops is adopted he will be able to keep in good heart, and progressively to aiiprove, sixty acres of til- lage land, so that each field shall be manured once every tour or five years on the return of the corn and potatoe crop. Grasses for the South. From the Albany Cultivator. Your correspondents frequently inquire re- specting the gras.ses suitable for the South. If each would communicate what he had observ- ed it would be a sufficient answer to such inqui- ries, and. might prove the most important bene- fit to the agriculture of the South. During this winter I have seen bundles of Northern hay brought to the stables of my neighbor, which had paid (orcarriage many hundred miles round the capes of Florida, through the Gulf of Mexi- co, and five hundred miles (by the course of the river) into the interior. This is a standing re'!- proach to the agriculture of the South. Lucerne — This is found to grow well here. Sow it in drills in the early part ol the fall, 84 to 27 inches apart; it flourishes, yields four to five cuttings in the course ol the year; and ou soil which would bring 20 bushels of corn to the acre, grows a foot and a half high. This season, some was cut on the l2th of March for soiling, and was then from a loot to knee high. The most of it has been cut twice over since the first cutting, to this day, May 13. Cattle and horses eat it greedily ; a cow fed on it chief- ly is yielding at this time between five and six gallons of milk daily ; when as yet there is no grass in the woods or on the common sufficient to change the poverty-stricken appearance ol the cattle in “ the range.” I have made no hay from It, but have no doubt it will make good hay. Guinea Grass. — The root is similar to that of the cane or reed, and is perennial. The stem and blade are like those of the Egyptian Millet. On rich soil it is very luxuriant, yielding many cuttings in the course of the year. It is good for soiling— horses and cattle eat it readily, and if cut when in flower, it makes a hay most abundantly which cattle eat greedily in winter. Horses do not seem to like the hay. It is most readily propagated by the root. A small root two inches long, with one or more joints to it, will vegetate, and, if the ground is made loose by plowing once or twice during the season af- ter planting, roots placed in checks of four feet will take complete possession of the soil the first season] so that the next spring it will start up evenly over the soil anywhere. Hogs root after them with great eagerness, and as the tendency of this plant is to fill the groiiud with roots in so thick a mat that the grass does not grow tall in consequence, the idea suggests itself of pas- turing cattle on this grass in the spring and summer, and giving the hogs the benefit of the roots in the winter. They cannot destroy it ; the smallest fibre left in the ground will grow. It might be a great pest ia a garden; but if 150 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. land is to be used for stock it will lake and maintain entire possession to the exclu.sion of any competitor which we have in middle Aia bam a. Clover OMd Herd's G/vts^ ~ I have now a bean tiful lot of these grasses in conjtmAion on high land, the whole about knee high, and the clover in flower. iVJr. Kirby, one ol my neighbors, cut the wood from a piece ol low^, pif e clay, crawfish land last winter, and when the bruslc &c., lying on the ground, had become sufii- cienly dry, he set fire to it and burnt it all off, thus giving it a top dressing of ashes. He then sowed Herd’s Grass on the top of the ground, without plow, harrow or anything of the kind. He now has a most rich and beauti- ful crop of this grass growing. If desired, your readers may obtain lurther particulars ol this crop. Leersia Ortzoides, (rice grass.)— This plant so much resembles r/ce that only a practised eye can distinguish them. The negroes on the rice plantations in Carolina call it “f/re rice's cou- sin.” It will grow wherever rice will — in' the water or in any damp situation. It is found wild in all the Southern country; grows tall, seeds in a panacle not unlike ahead of oats, and will yield two crops a year of hoy. Roots perennial. B. TJ. Tusualoosa, Ala., May 13, 18-15. Foolisli Planters. From the Augusta Constitutionalist. Permit me, Mr. Editor, through the medium of ycurcolumns, to notice what I considera very silly and most pernicious proceedingon the part of our planting friends, to which my attention has again been drawn, from noticing the usual annua! articles : *• The first new cotton in market from the plantation of Mr. , county, sold for — cents ! ! i " - ft is not my intention of enlightening the world as to the modus oyer andi” at times re- sorted to, of achieving this most astonishing feat ; whether thebolis were well sunned to cause them to open, whether' old cotton was slight- ly mixed to make up quantity, what amount of labor was bestowed upon the laudable and useful undertaking, how long it remained pack- ed before being opened to prevent its rotting, nor the extent of gratification enjoyed by tht- enterprising planter. These are but trifling and local matters. f wish ‘o dcfi! with the practical effect ot this foHv. li certainly cannot escape the notice of any mail of intelligence, that, the cotton trade has a host of people engaged in it, whose every thought and aim is to depress prices. The banker,' holding the available and |?.ctive wealth of the country — for he gets the better bill the lower the price is— and the manufacturing in- terests, for the cheaper the cotton the greater the profit— and the acent 'pnrehasing, tor the lower the price the more the orders cavi be exe- cuted—and a host of dependants are alive to everything reldting lothis trade, sparing no cost or labor in procuring every possible informa- tion, as to ihft amount planted, state of the sea- sons, &e. &.C. One of the reliable modes of calculation by them, is from the time the first blossom is ob- served, to the first killing frost — again, fiom the first new cotton being in market, to the first killing frost — this is relied upon for length of season — if an average period the crop is con- sidered an average one — if an unusual period, a large one. Now, instead of permitting nature to take its course, gathering with care the harvest when it is ripe, we (fora vain boast) must anticipam this event, and arm our enemies with an irre sislible argument to rob us of our labor. The fact of the early receipt, is at once her- alded in Augusta, or the market it is brought to. A full price must be given the inclustriou.s own- er of the one or two bales hauled to market, perhaps 75 miles, over a sandy road, by a hard- worked and poor team, with the tlierraometer at 95 to 100 degrees in the shade; some mer- chant must have the fir.st new cotton in New Yoi k, lor he may ’ hen see his name and his iriend’s in the newspapers of that city! Off ii £loes, and to cn ti 1 it nn'Jsii-; way to f.ivcrp.ool, a rnonih earlier than the represented slate of ihe so wing crop led parlies to anticipate. Caicii- lalions finm this fact are at once made, the Ln'k of late spring and dry season — is put down “ a usual humbug,” and the market of Liverpool, governing all oiher markets, becomes at once languid and depre.'.sed.' 1 hat this has been, and is likely to be the case, 1 will ofily state what took place a lew years ago: A planter in South Carolina sent in July, two bales of collon lo the Augusta market; they were at once sold, sent per rail road to Charleston, and by. steam packet to New York, there they were puichased by the agent of a merchant spinner, shipped per “Great Western,” and oh the I6lh day of Au- gust landed in Liverpool. The anticipated efieci of this shrewd agent was at once realized. The cotton market, (there in a good state,) paused, reeled and tum- bled— in three weeks prices Went down G cents a pound; and continued at ihat depression tor four months, cau.sing a !o-.s to American hold- ers ol coiton estimated atone and a half mil- lions of dollars, and perhaps as much rntTe to planters upon their new crop. But what avail- ed all this— the planter had his name in the pa- pers— glory enough for one day. Let us hope, Mr. Editor, for more intelli- gence in luinre; but if peisistcd in. I mu.^t call upon the trade'of Augusta unanimously to vote a leather medal for next year. A planter’s friend. Gettiiig Poor on ricli s and, and R'ch on poor Land. A close observer of men and thirgs told us the following litile hi.siory, w-hich we hope will plow very deeply into the atientioc of all who plow very shallow in their soils: Tw’o brothers settled together in coun- ty. One of them on a cold, ugly, clay soil, co- vered^ with black-jack oak, not one ol which w’as large enough to make a half dozen rails. This man would never drive any but large, pow’erful, Conostoga horses, some seventeen hands high. He always put three horses'io a large plcnv, and plurged ii in some ten inches deep. This deep plowing he invariably prac- ticed and cultivated thoroughly alterwards. He raised his seventy bushels ol corn to the acre. This man had a brother about six miles off, settled on a rich While river bottom-land farm — and while a black jack clay soil yielded se- venty bushels to the acre, this fine botium land would not average fifty. One brother was stea dily growing rich on poor land, and the other steadily growing poor on rich land. One day the bottorn-larrd brother cam.e down to see the black-jack oak laimer, and they began to talk about their crops and-darms as farmers are very apt to do. “ How is it,” said the first, “that you manage on this poor soil to beat me in crops?”. The reply was, “ / work rny land” That was it, exactly. Some men have such rich land .that they won’t work it, and-ihev never g^t a step beyond where they began. They re- ly on the sofZ, and not on labor or skill, or care. Sortie men expect their sms to work, and some men expect to work their land — and that is just the difference between a good and a bad farmer. When we hart written thus tar, and lead it to our informant, he said, three years ago I travel- led again through that section, and the only good larm 1 saw was this very one of which you have just written. All the others were de- solate, fences down, cabins abandoned, the set- tlers discouraged and moving off. I thought 1 saw the same old stable door, hanging by one hinge, that used lo disgust me ten years before ; and I saw no change except for the worse in the whole county, with the single exception of this one farm. — Ind. Farmer and Gardener, Efadiiig and Topping Corn. No one performs these operations for the bejicfir (d ihe ear, but to obtain fodder; and it is then justified on tl e ground that the corn is m.i harmed by it. The sap drawn Irom the root doss not flow strait op into the ear and kernel, bin into the leaves or blades. The carbonic acid ol the crude sap is de com po.sed, oxygen is given ofi' and carbon remains in liie foim of starch, sugar, gum, &c. &c , a.ccording lo the nature of Ihe plaoL Vv'hen sap has by exposure to light undergone tnis change, it is said to be clo.borated. It is only now-rthai ihe sap, passing from the upper si la of the leaf to a set of vessels in the under side, is reconveyed to ihe stem, begins to desce.nd, and is distrib ited to various parts of the plant, affording nourishment to all. But when the fruit of every plant is maturing it draws to itself a large part ot the prepared sap, which, w hen it has entered the kerney is still farther elabo,ate-d and made lo produce the pe- culiar qualities cf the fruii, whether corn or w heat, apple or pear. It is plain, fre.m this e.x- planatiori, that a plant stripped ot its leaves is like a chemist robbed of' his laboratory, or like a man w’ithout lungs. If corn is needed for fodder, let it be cut close to the ground, when the corn has glazed. The grain will go on ripening and be asheav}'- and as good as if left to stand, and the slalk will af- ford excellent food for cattle. Sheep are fond of corn thus cuied, anil will winter very well upon it. In husking out the corn, the husk should be left on the stalk for tedder. — Indiana Farmer. I et Farmers C'ommuuicaie — ImprovemeDt. M.r. Editor : -Farmers should be communi- cative of their agricultural knowledge. They should be as willing to give information to a broiher, as they are particularly anxious to re- ceive the like at the hands of others. They should inquire, search, experiment, and en- deavor to advance the general agricultural in- terest by every possible means and measure. What should be thought ol a farmer, who, hav- ing the necessary right kind ot knowledge to double his own harvest — which very properly and prudently he does — yei, will not impart one iota of the secret lo his neighbor, that he may do the same 1 Such there may be, but assuredly he is unworthy that appellation “ broiher farmer.” The real genuine larmer is wholly given lo the wtjrk. N.ext to his duties due high Heaven, it is his all ab.-orbinsr topic. He loves to hear ab't-ul fanrifng ; he loves 10 /a?/babout farming; the s udy of terming is to his taste.. He thinks, read.s, composes, reflects and stores his mind with treasures ^if knowledge applicable to the profession. All- other knowledge is acquired only to .subserve the intsresis < f this. In this wav, the farmer must and will nse. It is as ne- ce.ssarv to Ihe prosperity, ihe onward and up- ward march of the farmer, that he study and ap- ply the stores of kpowiedge, to the work ol his hands as in any profession or business whatever. Let him patienilv and perseveringly do it then, and look up and live. Farmers shc'uld take courage under a view of the immense change in hiS favoi there has been wrought within the last thirty years. Thirty years ago! Where then was the flood of agri- cultural reading now .sent forth to enlighten the land and make glad the hearts of tlie hearty yeomanry 1 And what was the slate ol agri- cultural science? Did the farmer then sup- pose science had any thing to do with the prac- tice of husbandry! What too wa.s_lhen the state of agricultural implements? Vv'hatfora plow did he turn the stubborn .glebe with? and what for a cultivator and hoe did he essay to till the hall broken field w’iih? Indeed, farmers can tell, for they known Farmers, under a sense of what has been done and is now being done for them, should look up, respect themselves, and adore that Providence that has so kindly undertaken lo advance their general weal. Respectfully, Butter's Vale, Dec. 1845. B. F. Wilbur. rHE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 151 METEOROLOGICAL JOURNAL FOR THE YEAR 1845, KEPT AT ATHENS^ GA., BY PROFESSOR McCAY, OF THE UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA. AP RIL . MAY. JU?iE > < 02 B A H 0 M E - TER. j THERMO- j METER. |CLBARNESs!Cn’JRSB & [OF SKY F'm|sTRENGTH 1 IOtoO, |of wind.* > 1 Days js A R OM E - TER. THERMO- METER. JCLEARNESs joF SKY F'il 1 IOtoO. jOOURSS & iSTRSNGTH |OF WIND " r 25 b > xj II Is A R 0 M E- 1 Ter. THERMO- METER. [GLEARNESsJeoURSE & OP SKY F’M'STRENGTH JOtoO. !of wind.” > 3 S Sun- 3 o'clkXSun- -3 o'k iJ iSUTl’ :3o’c?Ai5'Mre-'3 o'k Inch- Sun- 3 o' elk Sun p o'k ■i o' elk 1 ]Sun 3 o'k Inch- ^ Sun- i o'clk[Sun- 3 o'k Sun 18 o' elk Sun- 3 o'k Inch P rise. P M. 1 rise jP. M i rise. P il 1 rise.v. 51. es. o rise. P. M rise. ?. M. me. ?. M. |r.se. P. M. es. ' o rise. P. M. P. M. rise. P. H. rise. p. ar. es. i 29-25 29-33 58 67 10 sw 2! n'w2 1 29-50 29-44 64 82 9 3 0 sw 3 o o 1 >9 -53 29-51 46 77 6 10 0 0 2 -42 •43 59 72 8 8 Ow. 1 2 •42 •41 67 80 5 3 tsw 1 SW 4 2 •50 52 51 76 5 8 £. 1 sw 1 i •50 45 74 9 9 Ow. 1 3 • 42 • 42 63 79 2 1 i 0 w. 1 3 •53 52 59 81 5 2 0 w. 1 4 •43 •33 50 83 9 8 Vv. 1 MW 2 4 •42 • -41 54 84 2 0 W. D 4 •49 ■43 57- 83 3 4 NE 1 0 5 •26 ■27 63 82 10 6 w. 2'v/. 2 5 •37 •33 64 79 2 2 0 w. 4 5 45 •45 67 87 1 5 0 0 e •30 •33 63 66 0 7 sw 1 W. 1 6 ■32 •30 64 78 1 1 0 w. 6 6 •48 • 49 65 89 9 7 0 s. 1 7 ■32 •31 47 59 1 9 sw2iw. 1 7 ■24 •26 5B 73 8 7 0 w. 5 7 •49 • 51 64 89 10 5 0 SE 3 & -38 •45 44 60 10 3 W. 2jM. 1 8 • 40 51 74 10 10 0 w. 1 s •51 • 50 67 87 4 7 SE 1 0 9 •40 •56 37 59 0 7 SB. 2'w. ] 9 •51 •55 44 76 9 7 0 w. 1 i 9 •o:5 • 54 72 S3 1 6 E. 1 SE. 1 10 •50 • 45 45 73 3 8 w. 2 s. 2 10 • 58 • 60 49 80 10 5 0 0 ' 10 •58 , -54 73 83 0 2 E. 2 sw2 11 •31 •31 57 74 8 7 O ne 2 1) • 60 ■ 54 57 76 1 5 0 E. 4] 11 54 • 44 74 86 0 3 SW 1 w. 4 0-07 12 45 • 49 53 73 5 7 NS i1me.2 12 •38 • 42 63 63 0 0 E. 2 NE.l 0-'30 12 • 39 ■ .34 72 84 0 1 sw liW. 5 13. •53 • 50 39 77 8 9 0 w. 1 13 •37 ■ 39 63 75 0 9 E. 1 0 13 • 35 •38 69 89 8 2 O'w. 3 14 •40 •31 51 79 5 4 0 0 14 •35 • 26 59 77 10 5 0 sw 3 141 • 33 • 42 65 83 8 0 0 3w 5 0-11 15 •35 • 29 67 82 0 7 . 0 w. 2 15 • 14 • 19 63 67 0 0 SE. 2 NE.l 0-S6 15 • 50 •50 67 85 2 5 0 0 16 •31 • 33 66 82 1 6 w. 2 SW 2 0-03 16 15 • 20 43 66 10 10 NEl -VE.l 16 ■51 ■49 69 89 3 5 OjW. 2 lo-oi 17 •32 • 34 61 80 8 5 Oiw. 3 17 •32 • 34 40 71 10 3 W. i w. 1 17 • 45 .46 71 89 2 4 0 w. 3 18 •37 • 36 59 76 6 1 Ojw. 3 18 ■33 • 33 47 77 9 10 0 W. 1 Is •51 • 54 69 90 2 4 QIw, 1 0-03 19 •39 • 35 63 86 8 5 0 w. 1 19 • 35 • 35 49 75 7 8 0 w. 2 1 19 •59 • 60 72 S3 0 3 SB.l sw4 20 ■30 • 25 61 83 3 ■ 4 O'w'. 2 20 • 35 •35 54 81 5 o 0 0! 20 • 60 •57 71 90 6 3 0 sw 3 0-06 21 •28 •27 51 81 2 9 N. 1 w. 2 21 • 36 •37 53 82 8 5 N. 1 0! 21 • 46 •46 70 92 8 8 0 svr 2 22 .321 56 79 4 8 0;NE.i 0-06 22 • 35 • 26 54 33 7 5 0 SE. r 22 -40 •34 72 94 9 8 sw 1 sw 5 23 • 35 ■ 33 63 76 0 1 0 NE.l 0-03 23 • 24 • 20 61 86 9 5 0 sw 2 O-Oli 23 • 36 •39 74 95 10 10 w. 1 w. 4 24 •37 • 38 61 85 ' 4 7 1 0 sw2 24 •17 • 28 62 78 8 5 0 NE.i: 24 • 41 •44 69 94 8 5 0 sw 4 2n •34 • 33 68 82 6 9 1 sw 1:W, 5 2.' •a5 • 41 61 72 i 6 5 E. 2 o: 25 • 40 ■37 74 93 5 6 0 sw 4 26 •30 • 31 71 82 8 1 Oav. 4i 26 •39 51 76 i 5 5 SE. i w. 11 26 • 36 •39 70 92 7 5 E. 1 sw 3 b.04 27! ■34 • 33 65 86 5 6 j Ow 1 27 •26 • 33 51 73 9 5 0 sw 1 27 • 4 J •42 69 91 8 4 N. 1 SW 3 0-02 29 •41 • 42 53 85 4 9 w. 2 sw2 28 •34 • 33 57 81 i 10 5 NE.l Oj 28 • 39 •41 69 91 6^ 5 0 sw 4 0-14 29i ■ 44 • 43 55 32 9 7 Ow. 2i 29 •25 • 26 63 R6 i 7 4 0 s'.y ^ 29 • 20 •16 63 87 5 5 w. 3 w. 5 S'5 •43 • 49 53 83 9 7 0sw2 30! •32 •40 64 79 9 9 0 sw2’ SO • 22 •26 60 83 10 10 M. 1 w. 2 1 I 31! •52 ■32| 57 73 10 10 E. 2 0: 29-37 29-37 58 1 76 average. 1 I’ot’i reinl 0-12' 129-35 29- 36; 57 74 ivenge. Poi’I rain'i-21 29-45 29-441 67 87 average. Tot’l rain 0-49 Average for the Year. — Barometer, at sunrise, 29-97 ; 3 o’clock, p. m. 29-39 — Thermometer, sunrise, 50; 3 p. m. 69 — Total Rain, inches, 7*93. NoTe. — Course aitd streu^ih of wind, from 10 to 0—0 being least and 10 ihe strongest. In clearness of sky, 0 represents most cloudy, and 10 perfect clearness. liesuscitatiou of Worii=3ut Liaiitl. Four years ago, Itvo gentlemen of this city, (Baltimore,) bought each a ten acre lot, adjoin- ing eadr other, on the road leading through the Canton property to Patapsco neck. At the lime of the purchase, these lots were the very pictures of poverty personified, slightly covered with sedge-grass of a stunted growth. Some years previous we had seen them in corn, with stalks about the thickne.ss of a man’s thumb ; as to ears, there were none — of nubbins even, the produce was scarcely worth gathering. The first spring after these lots came into Ihe pofsession of itieir present owners, they each plowed his respective lot as deep as strong dou- ble horse teams and good plows could plow it, then put on thirty double horse cartloads to the acre, of compost formed of street dirt and sta- ble manure; then cross-plowed the manure in some 4 inches deep, spread 100 brnshels of soap- boilers’ashes to the acre, broadcast; harrowmd and rolled their ground, listed it 4 feet by 3, and planned it in corn, putting a handful of piaster and ashes on each hill. The product was 86 bushels of good sound shelled corn to the acre. The cultivation of the corn, after the fi'st plowing, was with the cultivator ?nd hoe, Ihe object ol'the proprietors being to maintain aflat surface, with the view of seeding the lots down in grass. In August, after the corn had been laid by, the harrow was passed through the rows, and a peck of timothy seed and § lbs. of clover seed, sown upon each acre, which was harrowed in with a light harrow. The grass seed took well, and has produced from two and a half to three tons of excellent hay to the acre last year and the year before. We saw these lots a fe w weeks since, and from their luxuriant appearance, we should judge that their yield the present year will be equal to that of I’ae two preceding years. To enable the uninitiated to understand what is meant by soap-boilers’ ashes, we will remark that they are spent ashes, and generally contain about two-fifths of lime in their composition; so that he who uses them, both ashes and limes his land at one and the same time. A great horror is generally entertained at buy- ing worn-out lands; and, indeed, where means and plenty of money are not at hand to improve them, this horror is very justly entertained; for no amelioration can be produced until you re- store to the soli the elements of fertility of vvliich it may have been deprived by long con- tinued and improvident culture— but where the soil has been once good, it is an easy matter, with the proper kind of manure and plenty of it, to restore its wonted fertility. That such is the case, the lots in question offer the strongest evi- dence. For, from a state of abject poveny, they wmre brought up, by a single manuring, to a state of the highest fertilization, and have now, for the third year thereafter, (naintained it. The facts presented by this instance of restor- ing lands, once good, after being impoverished by an improper course of culture, should not be without its rrinral, as they hold out inducements to the^owners of such lands to exert themselves by all possible means, to accumulate manures and apply them to their exhausted fields, as there are none so poor but may be brought up by proper applications, in sufficient quantities, of vegetable, animal and mineral manures— and they point too, with unerring certainty, to the propriety of undertaking the improvement of no more land at a time than can be well im- proved. We are very certain that neither of these lots, unaided by manure, would have pro- duced more than 15 bushels of corn to the acre, and yet we see these poverty-stricken soils brought up in a single season, to the capacity of yielding 86 bushels, being over five times that quantity, and continuing their fertility for four years in succession, with every prospect of a thorough restoration having been effected. To Cook TomatvIEs. — He that does not love tomatoes is an object of pity. Every art ol cooking should ba employed to inveigle the ap- petite of every man to love a vegetable L wholesome. Peel a dozen ripe tomatoes and fry them in a little sweet butter, (which nine Hoosiersout of ten will understand to mean a little clean lard,) together with two or three sliced green peppers ; sprink.e on a little salt, and finally slice up an onion or two, and let the whole cook thorough- ly. This is the Spanish method of preparing them. Another method, which, from a long experi- ence we know will wear w^ell, is as follow's. The directions are for a mess of tomatoes amounting to about three pints when cooked : Begin by parboiling two onions. While this is doing peel the tomatoes, which is easily done after hot water has been poured over them —cut them up and add the onions, also a tea- cupful and a half of bread crumbled fine, a ta- ble spoonful of salt, a heaping teaspoonful of black pepper, a lump of butter of the size of a turkey’s egg, or about four table spoonfuls. Beatthe.se thoroughly together and set them over a slow fire to stew. They should cook slowly and for a long time ; never less than three hours, but the longer the better. About fifteen minutes before they are to be used beat up six eggs and stir them in, and put them on fresh coalk and give them one grand boil up, stirring them all the time. "When so cooked no directions will b-e needed how to eat them. The art of cooking the tomato lies mostly in cooking them enough. They should be put to work the first thing after the breakfast things are out of the way, even if you do not dine till three. — lactmna Farmer. The ignorant man is dead even while he walks upon the earth — though he is numbered with the living. 152 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR, ®l)e 0outt)mt CultiDatau AUGUSTA, GA. VOI,. III., KO. 10 OCXOMER, 1845. Wheat. In the course of this month, those who intend to plant wheat will be getting their ground in order, and towards the end of the month they will be putting the seed in the ground. Very much of the success of the crop and of the quality of the grain will depend on the manner in which the ground shall be prepared for the re- ception of the seed, and on the proper selection and preparation of the seed itself. In the form- er particular — the preparation of the ground — the practice of Southern planters has been very es- pecially careless: so much so, indeed, as to have occasioned the remark that if, in those States where wheat is a main crop, the ground were prepared and the seed sown in a manner as slovenly as by many Southern planters, nothing at all would be made. The great defect in our practice in preparing for this crop, as well as all others, consists in our shallow plowing. This is to be remedied by subsoiling, about which there has been so much said in the Cultivator. Then, as to the soil itself, the defect, in most parts of the South, is the deficiency of lime and potash. Every wheat grower ought, by all means, to put on his wheat land, where this defi- ciency exists, at least ten bushels of lime, and the like quantity of ashes, to the acre. These both contain essential Ingredients of both straw and grain, as has been repeatedly shown by anal- ysis. And where they are liberally supplied to soils deficient in them, other things being proper- ly attended to, there will be produced large heads of wheat filled with large, plump grains, and straw of strength suflucient to hold such heads up. If the lime and ashes cannot be applied when the wheat is sown, it will answer as well — some say bett..r — to defer it till winter. When the land is poor, the American Farmer says, “ the cheapest as well as the best manure that could be used would be Guano, in the proportion of 150 to 300 pounds to the acre, to be mixed with about ten times that quantity of mould, and one bushel of plaster. The whole to be mixed together, sown broadcast, and lightly harrowed in at the time of sowing the grain, or any time during the winter omitting the use of the harrow in the latter case, of course. Where Guano cannot be had, the American Farmer recommends as a very excellent substi- tute, the following mixture:— “ Take 2 bushels of ground bones, 2 bushels of ashes, 10 bushels of rich loam or mould, 1 bushel of plaster, 2 bu- shels of salt, and 20 gallons of urine ; mix the whole together well ; let the mass remain for a few days, when it will be fit to sow. The quan- tity here named is intended for an acre, and would, we have no doubt, tend to increase the yield thirty-three per cent, in the crop of wheat, besides greatly improving the succeeding crops of any rotation which might follow, and leaving the ground in a meliorated condition.” Where are we to get the bones? you ask. Yes, there is the difldculty in making use of this prescription. We in the South are not poor enough yet to begin to save bones, but we soon will be, going on as we do now. Let any one, how'ever, think for a moment of the quantity of bones he might save on h’s plantation if he were to set about gathering up what are thrown out to bleach in the sun, or be consumed by the abom- inable race of sheep-stealing dogs with which the whole country is infested, and the difficulty will vanish. Besides, you have only to create a demand for ground bones, and the demand will be speedily supplied with the article from abroad. The field of Waterloo, for many years after that battle, supplied not only many of the wheat fields of England with bones for the improvement of the soil, but also many of the English millers with bones for the improvement of the weight of their flour, in the same way as some Northern millers are said to use Plaster of Paris to improve the weight of buckwheat flour for our Southern markets, producing, in this buckwheat case, re- sults very surprising indeed, and profitable be- yond anything that could be accomplished by the application of the same quantity of plaster to the soil where the buckwheat grew. “ To prevent smut,” — we quote from the Ame- rican Farmer — “all seed wheat should be well washed in clean water, so that all the lighter grains and the seeds of weeds may be skimmed off. To insure this, the wheat should be put in- to a hogshead, in small quantities at a time ; kept stirred, so that the impure grains and extra- neous matters may be floated to the top. This process should be continued until all such are re- moved, and the water, which should be drawn off and replenished occasionally, ceases to be co- lored by the operation. After this has teen ef- fected, let a brine be made of salt or lye of ashes, sufficiently strong to bear an egg; cover the seed wheat with it and let it soak for twelve hours ; then draw off the soak, spread the wheat on a floor, sprinkle slaked lime or ashes over it, and stir up the mass so as to coat each grain with the substance used. When this is done the wheat will be ready for sowing. No more wheat must be taken out of the soak than can be sown each day, and care should be taken to plow it in as sown, not more than about three inches deep. The harrow and roller should follow the plow. Seed thus prepared and put in, will, besides be- ing exempt from smut, come up quicker, grow more rapidly, and, of consequence, obtain a much better series of roots before winter, than would such as may be sown without preparation, and therefore be better able to withstand the effects of frosts and thaws.” Sir John Sinclair recommends, to prevent smut, to run the grain very gently through a rid- dle into clean water, when not only the smut balls, but the imperfect grains and the seeds of weeds, will float, and may be skimmed off at pleasure. As a further means of preventing smut, he recommends steeping the seed in any oneof the following preparations : 1. Pure cold water and lime. 2. Boiling water and lime. 3. Water impregnated with salt. 4. Urine pickle. B. Lye of wood ashes. 6. A solution of arsenic. 7. A solution of blue vitriol. Arthur Young sowed beds with wheat seed that was black with smut. The first bed sown with unwashed seed had 377 smutty kernels. A bed with seed washed in clean water had 325 bad kernels — washed in lime w'ater, had 43 kernels ; in lye of wood ashes, had 31 ; in arsenic and salt mixture, 28; steeped in lime water, four hours, had 2 ; in lye, four hours, had 3 ; in arsenic solu- tion four hours, had one smutty kernel ; steeped in lye 12 hours, had none ; in lye 24 hours, none ; in lime water 24 hours, none ; in arsenic 24 hours, had five smutty grains. Smut, then, can be gotten rid of. Everybody knows how to escape, to a great extent, the ra- vages of the fly. We wish the same could be said of rust, the only other serious malady wheat is liable to. On this subject, notwithstanding so much has been written, very little, we believe, is known that is really useful. Both the cause and cure are nearly as much involved in mystery as ever. Sir John Sinclair, in his Code of Agricul- ture, discusses the subject at length, and recom- mends as remedies that were most efficacious in his time : 1. Cultivating hardy sorts of wheat. 2. Early sowing. 3. Raising early varieties. 4. Thick sowing. 5. Changes of seed. 6. Consolidating the soil. 7. Using saline manures. 8. Improving the course of crops. 9. Extirpating all plants that are receptacles of rust. 10. Protecting wheat plants by other crops. Mr. Colman’s attention was directed to this subject, in New England, and after experiments carefully made, and extensive reading and obser. vation, he came to the conclusion that, early sowing, from the best observation he had made of wheat crops that had come under his notice, from the united and decided opinion of the British wheat growers and from many American autho- rities, is to be strongly advised as a preventive of rust. This may do in New England, but in the Southern States early sowing exposes the crop to the ravages of the fly. Of late, it has been confidently asserted that charcoal dust spread liberally over the ground is a sure preventive of rust. But here we want more light, and careful experiment alone can furnish it. Who will not be willing to undertake the experiments necessary to test not only this matter, but also many others connected with this crop? “Now then, farmers” — to use the language of 4he Ohio Cultivator — “one and all, what will you do towards accomplishing this de- sirable object ? It is vain for us to wiite or talk or travel amongst you, if you donot put forth the necessary efforts to carry into effect the measures that may be recommended, or to test by experi- ments the plans -of improvement that may bp suggested by the discoveries of science. Here then is work for you all ! Some of you we know have already engaged in it, and are acting upon the numerous suggestions that have been made throughout- columns, in regard to the manner of tilling and enriching the soil ; but there is need of much more being done, and we want every one to take a part. In the first place all should try to put in their wheat a little better this year than formerly — this all can easily do, without much additional trouble, if they have made a pro- per use of their own powers of observation, or have given any attention to the published ac- THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 153 counts of the experience of others. Then we want, also, that every farmer should make some definite ex periment this year, which may put to the test some theory of science, or perhaps lead to some discovery that will prove of advantage to the farming community, when the results are made known. “This may be done in a multitude of ways:— we have published numerous articles on the use of difierent kinds of manures and fertilizing agents, as lime, ashes, plaster, charcoal, &c. : now let each farmer who can obtain any of these sub- stances try experiments with them, by dressing one portion of the field and leaving the other un- dressed. The same may be done with numerous other kinds of manure and substances to be found about the farm or neighborhood. Then, too, in the mode of tilling or preparing the land, there is un- limited scope for experiments; plow a little deep- er than ever before, and if you can buy or borrow a subsoil plow, try that on heavy soils, and be sure in all cases to leave a portion of the field un- der ordinary tillage, so as to enable you to per- ceive the difference, if any. “ In the time and manner of sowing, and the kind of seed, there is also room for a multitude of important experiments, which will suggest them- selves to the mind of every farmer : let them all be tried and the results published next summer in the Ohio [Southern] Cultivator, and the infor- mation thus obtained may be the means of add- ing millions to the wheat crop of Ohio [Georgia] for years to come, and bringing prosperity and happiness to the farmers themselves.” Breaking up Prairie Liauds. Col. A. McDonald, ofEufaula, Alabama, writ- ing from Illinois, thus describes the farm of his relative and the manner of breaking up new ground in that State : “ Mr. A. McDonald was one of the early set- tlers of the country. He had an opportunity of selecting a choice place, and he made good use of the advantage he enjoyed; for certainly a more desirable farm than Elm Grove cannot be found in any country. There is about a section of the richest land, one-half timbered with black wal- nut, elm, cherry, the sugar maple; and the other half the richest prairie, finely watered. The man- ner of breaking up the prairie lands of this coun- try interested me much. They hitch seven yoke of steers to one of their large plows — the steers, plow, and all, managed by one man, turning over from one and an half to two acres per day, which costs from $1.50 to $2 per acre. This work is per - formed in the finest style, the plow fixed to run on wheels.” Just think of such plowing as that, ye who never thought of going deeper than about four inches! — Seven yoke of oxen to oneplow, and the plow attached to a pair of wheels very much like what is known among us as a carry-log ! And then to pay TWO dollars per acre for this first plowing — a sum equal to what a great deal pf our land would sell for even when new ! Is there anything wonderful in the crops that are gathered from such ground, thus prepared for the reception of the seed ? Mr. Meriwether’s Address. Ever since we received a copy of Mr. Meriwe- ther’s speech before the Agricultural Society of Putnam county, we have been trying to find room for it in the Cultivator. The speech is quite too good to be spoiled by cutting it up into ex- tracts, and rather too long for a paper like ours. Thoitgh there is no dangei of its being spoiled by keeping, yet we will see if we can’t get it in the next number of the Cultivator. Decrease of Population— Study of Agri- culture. They are complaining about the decrease of population in the interior of the State of New York. And it is asserted, that unless something is done hy the Legislature, to aid in improving the soil, half the rural population will go to the West, where land needs no improvement, for the pre- sent, at least. Wheat, the great staple of western New York, is now brought to Buffalo, from Illi- nois, Indiana, Michigan and Wisconsin, at five cents per bushel. In this state of things, it is confidently asserted, that, without the aid of sci- ence, the wheat growers of New York will have to give up the contest. Their condition is said to be still worse, who make wool, pork, butter, or cheese, according to the old system, on account of competition from the West. Under all these discouragements, however, there is this to cheer us. It is said, that in spite of the prolific production of western soils, and the cheapness of freights on the lakes, there are still some farmers in New York who make money~and they do this, because they are ena- bled, by the lights of modern science, to give a triple value to every muscular movement, in whatever work they set their hands about. That is, their one head and pair of hands, can accom- plish more in the same time, than the three heads and three pair of hands of those who work by the old rule, which, rejecting altogether the es- sence of brain, seeks to accomplish every thing by the use of mere elbow grease. If these things are happening in the state of New York, from western competition in the growth of wheat, what may we not expect to happen in the production of cotton, when the rich and extensive cotton fields of Texas shall be brought into full cultivation, and into active com- petition with us who shall remain in the old Southern States'? With our exhausted soils, and the markets of the world well-nigh glutted — not from over-production of cotton, but because the consumption oi it is checked and restrained every- where by despotic laws — the prospect of such competition would be appalling indeed, did we not know, that by setting our shoulders to the wheel, and calling upon science for aid, we may withstand it, successfully. We must study our profession carefully. We must bring all the light of science to bear on every process we engage in. “ Why should not” — asks Dr. Lee, of the Genesee Farmer, in an admirable article— “a person study the profession which he is to fol- low through life ? Is the skilful cultivation of the earth, a pursuit not sufficiently honorable to be regarded us a. profession? or is agriculture of too small importance to be studied as a science, as well as pracfi'sec? as an art? Why this reso- lute, this protracted, this hitherto successful op- position to the study of rural economy ? We can not comprehend it. “ Is t.here really danger that the rising genera- tion will know too much about the nature and properties of the things which must ever form all their annual crops ? Are we apprehensive that, if they study and understand the unerring laws of Nature, so far as they relate to ihe improve- ment of the soil, and the production of human food, we shall have an over supply of the neces- saries and comforts of life ? Perhaps it is thought that nothing can be learned about the things that unite to form the 20 bushels of “increase,” from one of seed, that God gives to reward the well directed toil of the husbandman. If this is the stumbling block, let us see if we can not remove it out of the way. “ A farmer sows one bushel of wheat, and har- vests twenty. From what source does he derive the nineteen, to say nothing of the straw that supports the whole crop ? Unless the whole in- crease is an entire new creation of matter, of course it must all come from somewhere. Now, it is obvious, that it would be of no consequence whatever, where this matter came from, or what it v/as composed of, provided God -gave an “in- crease” precisely according to the amount of la- bor bestowed, irrespective of the folly, ignorance, or misapplication that mighc direct the same. But all experience confirms the truth of the re- mark, that Heaven does not so reward the labor of the farmer. The Author of our being inter- feres by no special providence to save the erring children of men from hunger, disease and death, provided they violate the laws of Nature. If an innocent child places its finger in a burning lamp, neither its innocence, nor its ignorance of the properties of fire, will save it from the full injury and pain of a burn. “ God has conferred upon talking man, not only a sense ot just accountability to his Maker, and his fellow man, but reasoning faculties, memory, and other powers, which, when fully developed, will understand all the natural laws that concern his subsistence and happiness. These moral and intellectual faculties seem to be created to no purpose, unless they are awakened into life and usefulness, by the physical and mental wants of humanity. As a stimulus to rural industry, our Maker has created a necessity for man to “eat bread in the sweat of his face.” This necessity is, moreover, “the mother of invention,” and the parent of knowledge. Man’s necessities arising from hunger, cold and nakedness, led him to the use of fire, and to make a thousand discoveries in the arts. These necessities still exist in full force. Undoubtedly the Creator could easily have formed every acre of land, so that the most ignorant man alive, might plow and sow it, and reap 100 bushels of wheat on the same, year af- ter year for his whole life time, without impairing its fertility. But such abundance would have beenan enduring bounty on ignorance, if not on vice and crime. Knowledge is necessary to reno- vate any large tract of country, which has been much injured by unwise tillage; and this know- ledge can be best acquired by uniting the study, with the practice oi agriculture. “ The study of agricultural science, implies no more nor less than the investigation of the laws of our own being, as social, physical, moral and rational creatures. It is only a question of time, when we shall begin to learn what it is that forms good bread, milk, butter, cheese, potatoes, beans, peas, lean meat, wool, and bone. We can not go on forever, increasing hungiy mouths to be fed three times every day, and wasting to the tune of untold millions, the constituents ol our daily food, ani not pay for our folly. ♦ + »****♦ “Ever}' body knows that there would be some difTerence in a loaf of bread, whether it was made out of a pound of good wheat flour, or a pound of oat straw! We are wonderful nice about our own food, but we expect our wheat plants to ela- borate fat, muscle, brain and bone for us, and use materials as foreign from human flesh and blood, as copper, arsenic, and lead ! We are all exceed- ingly fond of good bread, milk, and potatoes, 154 THE SOtJTHERN CULTIVATOR. while we heartHy despise the y'atjent sUidy tliat will inform us what are the simple elementaty bodies that unite to make these articles of food. We greatly magnify the importance of blind hard work, as though man had the power to create a bushel of earn out of nothing, by dint of pro- tracted and intense muscular toil. To study the natureand properticsof the substances that Na- ture must have to form 80 bushels of tliis grain on an acre, is a perfect waste of time ! A know- ledge of these things can be of no possible use to the prac'ical farmer! Who cares to know what there is in a kernel of corn, or a sound, mealy potatoed These things can be made out of noitxing^ onUj work hard enough! A gallon of human sweat, spread evenly over an acre of land, ' is better than ad the agricultural science in the world, because it can be sold any day in August {or fifty cents! “If it were not f rr the indifference of farmers to the spread of agricultural knowledge, rural in- dustry would raise at once 50 per cent in produc- tiveness and value. So long as the tillers of the earth shall work 12 or 15 hours in 24, to make sometliiug out of nothing, the balance of the world will give them but a precious. little for their service. And why should they! If a farmer gives as much labor for one bushel of corn or wheat as be should for three, ought he not to.ex- change his badly directed industry, by giving three day’s work for one with those that study their business, and make every hour’s work tell to the best advantage? We can not blind our reasoning faeulties, and then plead ignorance of the things tliat form our annual crops, as a reason why we. should have move than the market value for our produce. There is no alternative but to lessen the hard work now expended in growing al! our agricultural staples, by the aid of know- ledge. If we cruelly withhold this knowledge from our sons, we indirectly give a bond that they shall be the ’newers of wood and drawers of water for the better informed, and that too, at the smallest wages, all their days. “ Kind reader, if you have a son, and believe with us, that the study of the laws of Nature will do him no harm, purchase for him Mr. Jas. F. W. Johnston’s “Lectures on Agricultural Chemis- try,” latest edition, which will c osi you but SI, 25. Let him buy as soon as he has thoroughly studied •lohnston, Boussingault’s “Rural Economy,” which will cost a dollar and a quarter more' These invaluable works should be in every com- mon school library in the state. We commend them to the attention of all teachers of young men in academies, and other seminaries. As Text Books, they may be regarded as standard works in all debates; although they differ in their respective analyses oi certain plants, such as wheat, p )tatoe3, and a few others. But plants differ in the proportion of their elements in differ- ent soils. The analyses of both are doubtless correct in the p.articular cases to which they refer. “ There is scarcely ten farmers in the whole State that feed all their cultivated plants, inclu- ding fruit trees, grape-vines, and strawberries as they should be fed. The same is true, to some extent, in regard to feeding, with the most appro. ■ priate and economical food, all domestic animals. How important, as well as interesting, is the study of the organ c structure of all the living things kept on the farm ! These organized vege- table and animal beings: possess many organs, and each organ has its peculiar ofhee to perform- “ Do wc work iciV/i or against the purpose o" Nature, in our treatment of all these vital func- tions? Are we sure that we obtain the largest possible crops of peas, potatoes and corn, from any given amount of land and labor? or the lar- gest rqturn in good pork, for the corn, peas, and potatoes consumed by our swine? How is it in regard to the production of grass, carrots, beets, beef, butter, cheese and woul ? Whose wool, vvortli 30 cents a pound, costs him the least mo- ney in kind and labor? Whose cheese and but- ter yield him the largest proht or compensation for his industry ? \Vhen we export 1000 tons of cheese to England this fall, how much truly valuable matter have we drawn from our pas- tures? Where are the precise things in boundless quantity, that makes cheese, wheat, and wool? “ What madness, to resist the study of these things. The great “ Empire State,” with its five hundred thousand field laborers, can not support one agricultural school ! “ ‘ O shame, -where is thy blijsli V ” Distinguished Farmers. We have had great pleasure in publishing in recent numbets of the Cultivator, accounts. of the farms and the management of Mr. Calhoun, Mr. Clay and Mr. Van Buren, and we have no doubt those who read these accounts had an equal amount of enjoyment therefrom. We now occupy a pretty large portion of our paper — could it be better occupied ? — with an ac- count of the farm and rnan.i'gement of another distinguished statesman — Mr. V7eester. It-/s truly gralifying, as the writer remarks, to see men oi such^signal abilities and e.'calted repute, though differing in politics, united and ardently devoted to the great cause of Agriculture. Visit to the Farm of Hon. Daniel Wf.b- STER, Marshfield. — We have been gratified by a vi.«it to the farm of thi.s distinguished statesman, and had the pleasure of holding converse with him as a fanner in his retirement, and who, by his urbane and friendly manner makes one al- most forget that be is in the presence of one of the greasiest intellects of the age. xAs a public man, he is well known, but not as a citizen and “the Farmer of Marshfield”— at home, on his farm, or among his neighbors. Here tne mind is unbent -the stirring scenes of political life are apparently thrown aside and .forgotten, and the farmer may • pproach bim on equal ground, and however experienced he may be in the one pur.suit of his life, he will find .Mr. Webster at home on the subject of agriculture, -with a dis- position as ready to impart, as he is to receive information, on a business v/hich appears to be more hi.s pleasuie than his profit. But if his farming does not result in pecuniary pro.fit, he has the satisfaction — which, in a mind like his, is prized far higher than pecuniary gain — of j coiinienancing and encouraging by his exam- ple, the great agriculiural interests of the nation I as well as the influence he exerts on all snita- j ble occasions to promote them. His farm is extensive, and that we might have the best opportunity to see every part of it, { his foreman wi’h a carriage, wasat ourservice, to take us over it, and explain the various ope- rations and e.xpcriments that are in progress. , Mr. Webster also devoted a portion of the time we remained on the farm in pointing out to us the improvements he had already marie, as w'ell as those he had in contemplation, and related many interesting incidents in the history of the family of the original proprietors of his farm, and of events which transpired in the early his- tory ol this ancient town. a- * it- # ^ -a- a- Mr. Web.ster’s farm contains about fifteen hundred acres. This large area embraces a great variety of .soil, about 300 acres of it salt marsh, the remainder very diverse : some por- tions of it may be considered of first quality, other sections medium, and some of it rather in- ferior ; but none so poor that good crops cannot be produced with good manuring. The situa- tion is a fine one for a stock farm — and if good prices for good l.eef and mutton could be ob- tained, it might be a profitable farm for that purpose. What adds much to the value of the place is; the facility with which sea manure can be obtained. It is said that there are seven miles ot beach, reckoning all the indentures and various outlines of the shore which skirts the farm. Here large quantities of kelp are annu- allv obtained, and in some seasons white fish to any extent are caught. With these natural re- sources so near at hand, the farm is rapidly in- creasing in value and productiveness. Wher- ever these leriilizing substances have been ap- plied their beneficial effect is obvious. A large portion of the farm is devoted to pasturage, which feeds not only Mr. Webster’s large stock of cattle, but many .others of his neighbors, which are pastured by the week or by the sea- son. The mansion house of Mr. Webster makes quite an imposing appearance as it is seen from the road, having, recently been fitted up, and large additions made to the old part, which was originally a square house, two and a half sto- ries high, with a wing extending back : a wing containing a suit of rooms, includinga spacious library, has been added, making an extensive front, with a piazza the whole length, extending round the ends of the building and part of the rear. The old and new parts ot the building harmonize very well. Comfort, convenience and neatness are more conspicuous in the ar- rangement, than any eflort at display. The mansion is situated 30 or 40 rods from the pub- lic road, and is approached by a broad drive way bordered by a hedge and belt of trees and shrubs. In front of the house is a fine lawn of five or six acres, dotted with trees in groups and single, and ornamented near the d a-elling with fanciltil beds ot flowers, cut out in the smooth sward. But the most striking object which meets the eye at first sight, is a majestic elm tree, near the east corner ot the house, which forms a complete bower. It stands oa an oval grass plot, which makes a fine carpet for the bower. At a distance of eight or ten ieet from the ground the branches extend in eve- rv direct ion hor-lzontally, gently curving over till. they rest upon the green sward, excep'ing on the side next to the house, where it has been necessary to cut out some of the low'er limbs, that carriages may pass to the eastern door. The branches on this side nearly touch the house, and form a complete canopy to this en- trance, The longest diamqter of this tree bow- er is 04 feet — perhaps 70 the_ other way. Seats are arranged around the tree near the trunk, where is a most delighiful retreat, especially in snch a dav as was that when we enjoyed its shade, the thermometer indicating tl e beat as near 90°. The tree is said to have been plant- ed 80 vears ago. The section of the farm on which the house stands, contains about 40 acres, and is bounded on three sides by a wide belt of young trees, through which there is a winding walk. In this area are incl ded the lawn in front; to the west, the orchard; in the rear, grass, and a large fish pond, ornamented with a boat moored upon its surface, which an apprentice boy, while en- gaged in painting ihe house, took a-fancy to con- vert into a mimic man of-wnr; to the east, an extensive fruit, vegetable, and flower garden, of 3 or 4 acres; and beyond this, a conical hill, crowned with a summer house. When we vi- sited this farm five years ago, this hill had the appearance of a miserable gravel-knoll, with a few stinted shrubs and trees. It was now covered by a luxuriant growth of young trees and shrubs, from 10 to 12 feet high — among them many locu.sl and other trees which had been raised from seed, and other species ii^hich had been transplanted. The belts had been formed in the same way. In rear of the garden, 155 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. and at the foot ot the hill, is an extensive poultry yard, well stocked with every variety of domes- tic fowls, with a pond for the accommodaiion of the aquatic tribes, in the rear ot the house, at the N. E. angles, are carriage houses, stable,- and other outbuildings, and a little further back, a J.rrgeand well constructed barn. Fro'.n the piazza of the house^ beyond the belt of trees, and on rising ground, in a westerly di- rection, the eye rests upon extensive fields of grain, roots, &c. ; southerly, a sheep pasture, in which we saw the Leicester sheep, and further to the east, woodland. The house of the head farmer is seen to the east, as the visitor enters the avenue to ihe man- sion’, and b.aek of it e.xtensive ranges ot cattle- yards, pigyerv and sheds, and another fine large barn, now in the process of building, ; nd nearly finished. There is no cellar under the barn, but Mr. Webster has hit upon a method to save every drop of the liquid manure, and in tliebest possible way. The planks conriposin? the floor of the cattle’s quarters, or byre, as the Scoich call it, are laid with an opening between them of aboufone half inch, and so arransed as tq be easily taken up. The idea is to place about two feet of loam, or other earth, under the floor; this will absorb all the liquid part of the manure as it runs down through the openings, and in the spring will be converted into the finest manure, when it is to be removed, and replaced by fresh mould. Instead of ha vins the upper part of the barn lisht, he has purposely had it finished with crevices between the boards above'ihe byres, to admit the air; but the byres are made tight by battens nailed on the inside. Instead ol losinc all the room over the drive-way, as is the case in b.ar.ns yenerallv, there is a flooring over two-, third.s the !eng h, leaving room for a larse load of h-ay on the floor below, a door be'in? provided for the oxen to yo out at the end of the drive- way, while room is thus'raade for at least 20 tons of hay more than if the barn was finished j in the usual way, Bvres are arranged on each side of the drive-wav, and yards are being made on each siife of the ham, so that the stronger cattle mav be kept bv themselves, and prevented from injuring the weaker. The yaf'ds are so arranged as to receive the sun, and pro- tected by sheds from cold winds. In addition to the two large barns we have mentioned, we no- ticed others at distant points from the mansion. Mn.nnrcs end. Crops. — We have already re- marked that fish and other sea manures were extensively used on Mr. Wehs'er’s farm. Of the beneficial effects of fish and kelp on corn and grass, we were an eye-witness. A field of corn of 15 acres, had been divided into four sections, and manured as follows : 1st section with fish; 21, kelp; 3d, stable manure; 4th, guano. On the three first sections, the manures were spread upon the sward and turned under; the section where the guano was applied,, was turned over without manure, and the corn dressed xvith the guano soon after it had appeared above ground, and a second dressing given at the last hoeing, at the rate of 300 lbs. to the acre. Forty loads to the acre of stable manure, were applied to the section dressed, with that 'ubstance : the quan- tity ot kelp applied was indefinite, the ground having been well covered with it, without counting the load=. Fish were applied at the rate of 10 loads,- of 13 bar’^els each, to the acre. Taking the field as a whole, it gave the appear- ance of a remarkable heavy crop. The section manured with kelp, took the lead; that v;ilh fish, next; that with stable manure, next; and the section with guano, behind the whole. The quality of the soil of the different sections was nearltfecqual, excepting th.al which wasgunnoed, which ha.d the appearance of inferiority. The corn on this section, we were informed hy the foreman, locked very nnnro nising in the fore part of the season, but was now evidently gain., ing more rapidly than that on either of the other sections, and he said it was impossible to make a just comparison until after harvest. On a mowing fi-^ld, we saw the e.flects of fish t’uat had been applied since the grass was cut. The contrast between that portion of the-field I which had been fislted” and that which had 1 not was very striking, in the deep green luxu- ! riant growth of the afiermath on the one, and I ru-sset-brown, dead-like appearance of the I other. Eat who can describe ihe odor which I came from that field ! All the old fl.sh-oil stores on Long iVhart comliined, would not produce the like, or any approach to it: and then the swarms of large green flies that covered the fen- ces and trees l’ The plague of flies in Egypt, could hardly have exceeded them, in numbers. The decaying fish furnished them a rich feast, i Luckily, this' section of the farm is reino/efrom j any human dwelling. But however unpleasant ! this vile smell from the rotting fish may be to a I stranger, a person soon becomes accu.stomed to i it, and as the unpleasant gasses arising. from the j decomposition of the fish, are said not to be in- I juricus to health, and as this manure 'vill double i or treble his crops, the farmer should not be de- ! termd from using it by the disagreeable charac- i ter c'f the smell. I We noticed a small patch of corn in anmher I place, that bad been manured with guano in the ! hill, and afterwards received a fish to each hill I as a top-dressing: the corn was of the deepest I green, and of the most luxuriant growth. We have often heard it asserted that fish ma- nure, after exciting the land to produce ohe or I two heavy crop.®, leaves it in an exhausted state, j This opinion is at variance with what we wit- ! r.es.sed on a pasture that had been “ fished” lour I years since. "We compared it with a pasture I adji-ifning, bo' h 01 iginaily ol the same qualit}'' ].of sni', or differing but little. The pasture that i bad been “fished,” was thickly coated w'lh fine grass, and notwithstanding the, drought, still produced the best of feed. The neighboring pasture was dried np, mossy, and apparently of little value. Another pasture was shown to us, which had been manured with fish nine or ten years since, and before the anplication was al- most worthless: it ha.s since produced excellent feed, and is now in good heart. These fesnlts wmmld reem to show' that fish manure is not so evanescent as it has been represented by writers and others. Mr. Web-sler sa id he considered one load of flsh w’as equal to three loads of stable manure, and afterwards appealed to his bead farmer, for kis opinion upon (he subject, who thougiit a load of fish equal in value to five loads ot stable manure. Sea w'ced is used in the piggery .and barn vard.s, and every means of iiicreasing manure from these sources, appear to be availed' of. Leached ashes has been used to some extent, and proves a valuable manure on the light soils which compose a part of Mr. Webster’s farm. On a ten acre lot of very light land, 3000 bushels of English turnips were raised la-l season, with no other manure than leached aslv's, and at an expense of only 73,dollars. Aboiit four acres of the same lot w'ere sown down to clover, and the balance wfith oats, for the purpose of plowing in w’hen .green. In enrich the soil. A very light dressing of^gu-ino was given these fie! fs. The oafs were so promising, that Mr. Webster al- tered his mind with regard to their disposition, and concluded to let them stand and mature; and on this very light soil, with no other manu- ring than leached ashes last year and a small quantity of guano this, we now’ beheld. readyTor the cradle, a heavy crop ot oats. The clover on the other part of the ficF! covered the ground, and w’assoonfo be plow’ed in, as was also the stubble of the oats, for seeding down to rye. Atractoflen acres, of the same qualitvof soil,- was covered w'ith a vigorous -growth of 1 buckw’heaf, which the plowmen were engaged j in turning under, prepatatorv to rye. Another I large strip was devoted to beans, and four or five acres to ruta bags, sown broadcast, and not .sufficitniiy advanced in growth to enab’p ns to form an opinion of the probable result of the harvest. A lot of three or four acres was de- voted to mangold-wmrtzel and sugar beets. In some parts of the field, the crop had been thinned by the worms, and causes attributed to the .sea- .son or the seed — but the plants generally w'ere thick enough to ensure a heavy yield. Another barge section was devoted to English turnips, w’hich, of course, had not yet begun to make much show. Fifteen or twenty acres ol the farm are devo- ted to roots, which are fed to the stock in win- ter. Last autumn and winter, a lot was fed off the ground by sheep, according to the English practice. Spring w'heat has generally succeeded w'ell on this farm, but the present season has been rather unfavorable. Samples that w'e examined from the crop stored in the barn, did not indi- cate a very heavy yield; the grains did not look so plump as samples we have seen from this farm. The yield of English hay this season, has been estimated at abnui 200 tons. The salt hay is most!}' let out to farmers back from the shore, to cut on shares. The marshes yield about the ‘sanie quantity ol hay as the uplands. The quality of the m.arsh hay varie.s; some of it is almost equal in value to good Engli'^h grass, while some is fit only for bedding or manute. The farm appears to be well stocked with ap- ples, pears, peaches, plums, grape.s, &c.-k- Among the apples we noticed the High-top Sweeting, a variety that may be found on about every farm in Plymouth county, and in some orchards there appeared to be an overstock of this ancient and highly esteemed apple; but we are sorry lo say there is hardly a thrifty tree to be seen; the variety seems to be on the decay. The stock on Mr.- Webster’s farm, taking it all together, cannot he surpassed by any in the State. The lastseasori he wintered ninety head. The cows are generally of the Ayrshire breed, either fun-blooded or mixed. They originated from a cow im boned by the Massachusetts Agricultural Society, and a bull imported by Mr. Vd. This animal is finely proportion" silkv, short-haired, and equal to any creatiT"' t the kind we have ever seen. The cows are ai -o heauiilnl, and give abundant evidence of their superiority in the quantiiv of milk they produce — having averaged, in the first of the season, 20 quarts each per dav. He has eight milch CO cs ot 111 is breed. We saw in a pasture at snine distanre from the house, 10 two-year old heifers of this blood, tiiat could hardlv be ex- celled in point of symmetry and general beauty, having the glossy hair and admirable mixture of colors peculiar to this breed. For working f'xer . Mr Webster prefers the Devon breed of which he had ten or twelve yoke, in excellent order, beside.s steers. He had sent a drove of fat oxen to the Brighton market, a few days previous to our visit. Cf sheep, he has the celebrated South Down and Leicester breeds— more esteemed for their excellent mutton than fortheir wool. Vv^'ethers are purchased at Brighton market, in autumn, and kent through the winter on turnips, hay, and a little grain, and when fatted in the spiing, sold to tire butcher. Thi.s has proved to be good husbandry, affording some profit, and increas- ing the manure heap. The Mackay breed of hogs is now the only sort kept on the farm — the Berkshire having been tried and discarded. We conclude this hastily penned and imper- fect account of our most agreeable visit to this extensive and well conducted farm, by remark- ing, that the interest taken , in Agriculture by such men as Mr, Webster, Mr. Clay, Mr. Van Boren and Mr. Calhoun — all of whom are en- gag.”.-'', and are proud to be, in the culture of the earth— i.s a scathing rebuke to those weak- minded or wrongly educated person.s, who Fok, or affect to look, with contempt upon, and to consider as degrading, the noble occupation of the farmer. And truly grai.ifyieg i.s it to see men of such signal abilitiesand exalted repute, thong'n differing in peditic.s, united and ardently devoted in the great cause of agriculture — the basis of na'ionat we.alih and national prosperity — and whose f llnwers constitute alike in peace and war the main bulwark of the country’s wel- fare and securiiv. 156 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. Original (Eommitmcations. The Crops— The Drouth— Practical Hiats. Mb. Cam ak .-—Having been preserved by a kind and overruling Providence to reach myna t ve State, on my way home, I feel it due to my brother farmers (for I hope every Georgia farmer takes the Southern Cultiv.atoh,) to give them some account of what has fallen under my ob- servation. Since I last wrote you from Illi aois, I found the grain crop of the West promising an abundant harvest. This is peculiarly fortunate, indeed, at this time, as we have suffered so se- verely in all the South. For, I found, in pass- ing through the State of Virginia, as well as North Carolina and South Carolina, and as far as 1 have came in Georgia, that the crop is literally cut off. Indeed, I have scarcely seen a field of corn that would yield over half a crop ; and, from the best information I can get, this unfortunate state of things is general. Avery natuial inqui- ry comes home to every man: what is best to be done under this state of things 1 The answer is promptly given : Let us sow largely of the tur- nep crop ; sow largely of the winter grains, such as wheat, rye and the hardy kinds of oats. Then, in he commencement of the fall and winter, use great economy in the consumption of what we have. By pursuing thiscourse, and in the mean- time, commence taking the e.xampleof our more prudent Northern farmers, set about saving and making manure for the year 1S46, we will, I hope, be prepared against future drouths, at least as far as human foresight can prepare, particularly if we will pay much more attention to the provi- sion crop generally, than we have hereto.‘'ore done— that is, plant a much larger proportion of our lands in a provision crop, and much less in the cotton crop. Having mentioned the subject of manure, let me tell my friends who cultivate the soil, that the sooner we turn our attention to that important part of husbandry, the betterit will be for us. In passing through the States of New Yv'rk and Pennsylvania last month, (August,) I found the farmers everv where hauling out large quantiiiss of manure. Indeed, from the size of the farms and the quantity ol manure, I was at a loss to know how they managed to prepare so much of it; for, from the number of cartloads that they put on an acre I supposed they intended to spread it broadcast. And such was their attention to the soil, that they had previously plowed up the fields for its reception. Now, I don’i believe in imitating the North in everything ; for, from all I have seen. I would be the last man that would quit the South and settle in that cold region. But their system of industrv and economy is w'orthy of all praise. If we would carry it out to the extent they do we might soon make our de- lightful country the garden spot of the world. Let us, in all the South, getup, as New York has done. State Agricultural Societies, and County Agricultural Societies. Let us universally, as farmers, encourage the agricultural press, and in a few years the whole face of the country will present a very different aspect. We will hear no more of hard times, but all will be flouiishing and happy. Your friend, Alexander McDonald. Macoriy Ga., September 15, 1845. Bermuda Grass— Sweet Potatoe. Mr. Camak: — How Doctors differ, or if you please, how we Bermuda grass men disagree as to how to give the death blow to this monster, Bermuda. Well, this is all well enough. The object is, to get at the experience of all; then sum it all up, and see who is right; and see who has learned to kill itso that it will ."-tay killed : or to see if he who thinks he kills this grass, has not killed the soil, I think I must say, deader than the grass? And let me say, in ttiis place, I feel no wounds inflicted, at having my plans controverted. I have stated, and my belief is, that shading crops — such alternate crops as f eas in summer, atid wheat or barley, in tall and winter — is the best. Mr. Rkeney, of Burke, says it wont do; that hoed crops, with prepara- tory plowing, is the thing. According to his own statement, by a greaT deal of hard work, he has killed both grass and land, and that by. plowing and hoeing. This he may do in Burke, where the land is, I presume, sandy : and 1 sta- ted, that it was much easier to manage it (if not to kill it.) in sandy soils. But if he will come to old Greene, and kill it after his plan, on our large fields of stiff, red clay soils, and with any thing like the usual crop to the hands, and espe- cially, if he will kill it without injuring the land, I think we will not only give him the silver cup, but fill it with kindness, and that to overflowing. For it will profit us but little, to be shown how to put an end to the ever-lived Bermuda, unless in so doing we can treat the. soil more kindly. My plan had in view, not only the killing of it, but in doing so to have the land improved. I would not have Mr. R. think, that I question what he says. I am glad he has said what he has, as we invite the experience of all, on this all-important subject. I only object to the state it leaves the land in, by his own statements ol his process of destroying it. We are very much upon the plan of trying to improve our lands in these parts, and we have been saying, or I might say hoping against hope, that Bermuda was coming in (to be what red clover waste the North,) to aid us. But enough, lor I am pausing, to know, what more to say or think of this blessed pest, (as I must call it, till I can get a better name,) and these remarks are only in reply to friend R. of Burke. My main object in taking pen in hand, to con- tribute my mite to the Cultivator, was, at this time, to do more immediate good to the com- munity, than R. or 1 shall do in discussing the merits of Bermuda grass; and that is, now that we make but little to live on this dry year, to try to tell my friends and neighbors how to keep that little, when we have got it. The sweet Potatoe is a favorite crop with me. It is one very dilticult to keep, after yon have made it, without a great deal of trouble; and they loose much of their flavor, if the least un- I sound. The best way to keep them good, thatl have ever tried befoie my now proposed plan, is the old fashioned way of putting up in large hills or piles, and covering with earth. In some seasons, they will rot in this way. I have mainly kept mine now for the last two yezrs, perfectly sound, by putting them in a dry loft, on a tight plank floor, and covering with cottonseed, about 6 or 8 inches thick. Any gar- ret or loft, that is fit for nothing else, will do for this; for it may be only the room made by the roofing or rafters coming down to the floor, and scarcely high enough to stand erect in the cen- tre: yet this is the very shape you want your potatoe-pile to be in, running the whole length of a long roof, if you have the potatoes; letting them lie here till cold weather is about to set in, so that they get perleclly dry and cured. Then cover with colton seed, and you will have good fresh roots, till this time of the year. I can now show some as sound as the day they came out of the ground. The advantage over the old hill practice is, that it is not half the trouble to fix, is always ready to get at, to take out more or less, and when you take out, begin at one end of your roof-shaped pile, by displacing the cot- ton seed ; when you have got out what you want, simply throw back a lew seed, where you have just taken from. Try it, and ifwill do you good. And, now, Mr. Editor, let me say in conclu- sion, as Sain Slick says;. “ the best land, with hard usage and constant cropping, will run out.” So we novices, with pen in hand, and a desire to scribble, and not much in the head, will run out-, and to make out my piece and fill my sheet, let me, through you, object to this anony- mous writing in the Cultivator. There’s my Bermuda friend P. of Walton, and there’s your “ Agricola’s,” and “Salamander’s,” and “ Cot- ton Planters ;” and next, I expect, we shall have our “ Potatoe Eaters,” &c. &c.. Come out with your true names, gentlemen, and let us see who you are. And if we differ, and can’t settle it by writing, let us know who you are, that we may goanlsee you, and settle the difference b}'' word of mouth; surely, if we are engaged in a good-cause, we ought not to be ashamed of our names. Subscribe your true names, as I do mine. J. Cunningham. Greensboro', September 19/A, 1845. Sheep aud Wool. Mr. Camak : — Proof is unnecessary for the conviction of any intelligent mind familiar with the character of tt. e soil and climate of our extensive pineries bordering on our rivers and tributaries, that they possess superior natural advantages to all other lands lor successful aud profitable sheep husbandry. Though almost in a state of nature, they may be made, in a few years, to yield returns in this branch of husband- ry, unequalled by the most productive agricul- tural districts in the State. The scattering flocks of fine looking sheep in our pine land counties, fully demonstrate its practicability upon an extensive scale. If sheep husbandry is made a source of im- mense profit in countries where land costs thir- ty to fifty dollars per acre, and the climate re- quires them to be led eight months in the year, and that, too, on dry food, how much more availa- ble are our pineries at 10 to 40 cents per acre, with a genial climate and a soil of perpetual herbage ? If the bleak States of the Nort*’ raise their millions, why may not Georgia do the same, with greater advantages of soil and cli- mate? With the same agricultural encourage- ment, she can raise finer sheep and double the number of any of the Ncrihern States. And once began upon a liberal system of husbandry, we will see the husbandman of those States transplanting his flocks Irom their snow-capped mountains to the verdant plains of our noble and extensive pineries. To those familiar with the natural advanta- ges of our pine land counties, the question must force itself upon the mind, why have we neglect- ed so long the blessings that the God of nature has given us? In truth, we are the slowest people in creation to profit by the force of ex- ample. Georgia is capable of raising millions of sheep, and in a few years may be made not only to supply the demand of her owm manufac- tories, but to export millions of dollars worth of wool, from lands now entirely unproductive. The most valuable of our pine lands for the raising of sheep are the counties included in what is termed Southwestern Georgia. Their variety of herbage and fertility of soil render them the most desirable lands in the world for. the grazing of sheep. The counties on the bold and gushing Flint and its tributaries, from Doo- ly and Sumter to its junction with the Chat- tahoochee, seem designed by nature for sheep walks of the most novel and romantic kind. Within this area of country, including Lee, Baker and the adjacent counties, can be raised a largernumber of sheep, to greater advantage, than in any country of its extent upon the ha- bitable globe. From its great natural fertility of soil, surrounded by a vast region of grazing lands, and abounding in the richest and most luxuriant herbage, it must, one day, become the centre of a great sheep countryn It is there the shepherd will delight to dwell. From its smooth and even sui face and freedom from all under- bush, the eye at a single glance can scan thou- sands at feed. Such is the character of a large portion of the pineries in that region of the State. There also may be seen what is often termed “the richest lands in the world,” for the earth, indeed, “seems to leem with riches,” and nature to have blended all her excellencies and exhausted her storehouse in the production of a virgin soil. In contemplating the great agricultufal resoifr- ces of that region, we are natuially led to la- ment the destiny of unhappy friends w-ho have overlooked the claims of their owm Georgia, and sought homes upon lands in other Slates not half so rich, and for which they have paid three, yea, in many instances, five limes their value. Sic transit gloria. What Georgian, who has passed a winter in that region of his State, but dwells wdth feelings of ecstacy and delight upon the sojourn. THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 157 The nexc of our pineries most desirable for the raising of sheep, are the counties upon the Ocmulgee, Oconee, Altamaha and Ogeechee rivers and their tributaries. The most intelli- gent men in these counties concur in their expe- rience that this is the most profitable live stock they can raise. Sheep require little or no food during the severest winters, and thrive well on herbage alone. Your correspondent remembers well the information afiorded him by a Repre- sentative to the Legislature from Irwin county a few years ago, that with only the care of a j shepherd he could raise one thousand sheep ea- | sier than he could then fifty in view of the home- j stead. And that under a judicious system of sheep- husbandry in Georgia, Irwin county alone was capable of raising 50,000 head. Practical men have thoroughly demonstrated t.he fact, that every breed in this country can be raised as profitably upon our pineries as in any partof the Union. It is a fact, too, worthy of observation, that \ sheep on our pine lands are exempt Irom the | diseases mat scourge flocks of other countries. ! If they escape the aitac-k of their natural ene- mies— the dog and tne wolf — they rarely ever die until old age carries them ofl. They mani- fest too, a remarkable quietness and content ne- I ver observed in flocks elsewhere. And in the j eye of an old bucit of our pineries there is a leer j of arrogance with an air of gracelulness in his j step that gives him a knightly and lordly appear- : ance. i The middle range of counties in Georgia be j tween Scriven and Franklin, on the Savannah, j and Stewart and Heard, on the Chattahoochee, i are capable of sustaining thousands of sheep, ! though not in such large flocks as those coun- ; ties suggested before : yet this region of our i State aflords great advantages to our planters to j engage to the utmost of their means in this j branch of agricultural industry. - Above the points defining the middle range are the adjacent mountainous lands. These are not surpassed by any sheep lands of similar character in any part of the world. Upon them also may be raised with great profit and suc:ess every breed known to us. The celebrated Al- paca will, one day, ruminate quite as free up- on our mountains as upon his own Cordilleras. Endowed with great strength of consliiution and capability of sustaining himself upon the coars- est food, may we noi hope to see this noble ani- mal browsing upon our mountain tops, the pride and wealth of our enterprising and patri- otic agriculturists'] With hundreds of thousands of acres of wild lands, yielding a scanty support to the few un- fortunate of our people whose lot has been cast withont a single ray of hope in these sections, cannot their condition be relieved by the dawn of a brighter day] Yes; the beginning of an enlightened system of agricultural indu.stry in Georgia will afford them a more cheerful pros- j pect. And where nothing now presents itself to ! the eye ol the traveller bnt the dull monotony of ; va.st uncultivated tracts of countiy, t.heir hills ! and plains will be covered with green pastures, ' and homes made cheerful by the sigiu of the | shepherd and his grazing flocks ol sheep. ; Then why should a State, striving to promote i public and private interest, delay longer in a i measure fraught with such manifold blessings i to her citizens ] Here nature has opened a field j rich for a harvest. Come ye! who wish to reap j the product of her noble" work. Legislator! pot your hands first to the handle and the work IS begun. Patriot! do that for your country that will secure you the gratitude of your country- men—your success will feed the hungry and clothe the naked at your door. You cannot achieve for your Stale a nobler destiny than the encouragement of a wise, liberal and profitable branch of agricultural industry. Respectfully, Rcclusa, lOfA August. Jethro. Useful and Cheap. — A parlorsrove has been invented with a gasometer attached, by which as much gas can be extracted from the coal during i the day as will serve lor light during the evening. * “ The Scieuce ol Good Hu.sbandrj'.” Mr. Caaak : — Under the above caption Xeno- phon has detailed a conversation between Socra- tes and Ischomacus — of which a sketch, in part, may not prove unacceptable to the readers of the Southern Cultivator. Socrates was con- sidered the great founder of ancient moral and mental philosophy — and his name stands out IroHi the past, the most conspicuous andshining light of antiquity. Speaking of the improvement of estates, it was observed that stewards or overseers should be as good as the master — as careful and unre- mittingly industrious as if the owner were ‘present during his absence. iNone other would avail. An estate Is not strictly property^ unless it be prefitable. The time and attention ofowners should be bestowed on a plantation ; as a Per- sian king being asked what made his horse so fat, replied, the “eye ot the master.” Alone'y itself is valueless in hands extrava- gant or unknowing how profitably or felicitous- ly to invest it. Everythin? is valuable only by its risht use, more than possession. The best opulence is to be satisfied with your estate, whatever it be. But a good, thriliy and pru- dent wife enhances one’s wealth by retaining and preserving what he brings in. And Ischo- macus praised his wile for an obedient, amiable and diligent woman ; hence he was admired by Socrates as a thrice happy man, w'eU meriting the popular title oi‘'-the JustP Work should be done with regular diligence and constancy, but not so headlong as to fatigue too much. Rich men should not be above working manu- ally, with their own hands. Cyrus, the greatest monarch of Persia, was instanced as having daily labored before vieaU, and his extensive and beautiful orchard, was mainly laid out and planted by his own hands. But to be engaged in any way, at the study, or in the field, or the workshop, was in Socrates’s opinion, commenda- ble employment. I quote some of his translated words : “By husbandry the ground gives us every thin? Deces.«ary for food and nourishment, and such things likewise, as aflord the greatest plea- sures. Yet, though it gives us plenlilully of all kinds of things, yet it does not allow us to reap them in sloth and idleness; but excites us to health by the labor it appoints us. * * * The practice of husbandry, makes men strong and bold — enabling tnem to defend theii country. What science is there that brin?s man more ad- vantages for his labor. * * * He w’as surely a wise man that said husbandry was ilie mother and nurse of all the other sciences; for when she flourished all the other sciences and faculties fared the better; but when the ground lies un- cultivated and brings no crop, all the sciences and arts are at a loss by land and sea. * * R is a healthful employment, breeds good men, and occasions generosity ot spirits and good will to- wards one’s friends and count.'^y.” Isc-homachus instanced the treatment of slaves: to carefully reward the diligent and lav as many hardships as you can on the idle and careless. Bad manaeers and fretful masters make bad servants. Be firm, but not outrage- ous. Nothing spoils or desponds a good ser- vant so much as to .see the idle and unworthy put on a level with him, or praised and promo- ted before himsel.f Dishonest overseers or dri- vers, no matter howsoever industrious and dili- gent, are not to be continued. Honesty in such is as valuable a quality as industry. “ As to slaves,” said Socrates, “ we should not act on the laws ol Draco and Solon alone, by punish- ingthe bad, but upon those also of the Medes and Persians, by re warding the good and de servin?.” “ Husbandry is profitable,” continued Socra- tes, “to proficients, but exceedingly unprofita- ble to the ignorant, though not requiring length of time to understand. The principal difficul- ties are as to the soil. On it philosophers are ra- ther occult; yet, the constituents of soils may be discovered by observing what best grows upon them.” “ Plow fallow lands in the spring, as it is too wet in winter and too dry in summer. Weeds and grass turned in belore the seeds mature im- prove the soil, as also green crops plowed in,” observed l.'chomachus. “ The sun’srays correct the rawness and sour- ness of earths. Not convenient to sow when dry. Good sowing requires experience, as seeds should be equally distributed over the ground,” remarked Socrates. “ Ditch, to drain off superfluous waters ; ma- nure at every rate must be had— improvidence to be without it. Vf eeds laid under water rot, and constitute manure equal to dung. Water, in a still place on earths, too, convert them to manure. “ In planting trees never exceed three feet in depth, for any kind but the olive. The best width of the hole is two and a halt feet. In planting the olive tree have clay at the bottom,” said Socrates. “ The land by its production is always the best teacher ot its fitness. Dry and calcareous earths should be laid on sour unpro- ductive soils.” This, I think an idea of the lime ot the moderns. Socrates and his friend Ischomachus, then the best husbandmen in Greece, agreed that generous masters, especially with good servants, are mote successful than the indiscriminately cruel. It would appear from the above sketch of a long conversation, that the ancients were but little, if at ail, inferior to the moderns in the cultivation of the soil. Even the experiences of two or three thousand years, are, to many, at this day, as unknown and unpractised as if Greece and Socratf s never existed. Thus?o€s the world, folly and i?norance being always the same disagreeable things. As the ancients remarked, the great difficulty to this day is, in finding the proper constituents of soils. They were ignorant of our gaseous derivations and chemical properties, or they iDight have handed down to us a manual, obvi- ating many difficulties with which we have DOW to contend, notwithstanding our boasted wisdom. J. J. Flourxot. Wellington^ Septeniber, 1845. Farmers’ Club of Upatoie. !\rH. Camak : — On the 5th instant an Agricul- tural Society was organized at this place, (under the above name,) by adopting a Constitution and electing as officers for the ensuing year — James H. Jones, Sen’r., President. Nathan Renteoe, and ? ri -j Albut Johnston. [ Vice Presidents. R. W. Carnes, Corresponding Secretary. Dr. Chas. -M. Smith, Rec. Sec. and Treas. Thos. H. Kendall, Librarian. Wm. W. Williamson, j Wm. B. Rcckmoke, ] Wji. Tinsley, Board of Managers. John L. Smith, and | Wm. Graham, J Our Club numbers forty-five members. We desire to be considered one of the family, and confidently expect countenanee from other Asso- ciations, ard such information and instruction from our br' ther farmers elsev. here as their con- venience will permit. Very respectfully^ Robt. W. Carnes, Corresponding Sec’y. Upatoie, September 16, 1345. Manure Making. — There is ore means of making manure on every farm which is too commonly overlooked or not availed ot — we mean, from the wash and w'aste liquors of the house. Cart a load ol loam near the outlet of your sink, and carrv the spout on to it; shovel over the heap occasionally, and in six or eight weeks the mass will be enriched, and a fresh lot may be brought io undergo the same process. Thus, in the cour.se of a year, several loads of manure may be made at a trifling cost, and of a quality hardly inferior to ibat from the barn- yard. This hint is worth something. — A'. E. Farmer. 158 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. From llie Genc'ee Farmer. The Fruits and Fruit Trees of America. Ey A. J. Downing, of Newburgh, N. Y. This work, for which we have been looking wish considerable anxiety for some time past, hasat length made its appearance; and from the rather cursory examination which we have given it, we can say that it is the most com- plete and use.ful book o! the kind yet produced in this country. This was to be expected, not so much on ac- count of the peculiar qualifications of Mr. Doxvninv, as of the great facilities afForded for the compilation of such a work, by the recent careful and systematic investigations of Euro- pean as well as American Honicuhiiral Socie- ties, and the increased general attention given to fruit culture everywhere. The work has evidently been prepared with a great deal of labor and care, and with a view to make it as perfect as possible at the present stage of ilmerican experience in this depart- ment. We cannot convey to our readers an idea of the importance of the work any better than hv giving a sketch of the various subjects of which it treats. Chapter 1. Treats of the production of new varieties of Irtiit. 2. Propagation of varieties, grafting, bud- ding, &c. 3. Pruning. 4. Training. 5. Transplanting. f). Position of fruit trees, soil and aspect. j 7. General remarks cn insects injurious to j fruit i'-'s. i 8. T.ie Apple — history, uses, propagation, planting, pruning, insects injurious to it, gather- ing, keeping the iruif,-cider making; and a de- scri ’ ion of 186 varieties, with engraved out- lin' natural size, of upwards of 30 varieties. 'J The Almond — history, uses, cu'ture, &c. ; with a description of 7 fruit bearing and 2 or- namental varieties. 10. The Ayriccif— historv, uses, cultivation and diseases, with a description of 16 varieties. 11. The Baberrp — uses, culture, &c., and de- scription of 4 varieties. 12. The Cherry— 'ns history, uses, cultivation, training, g-athering the fruit ; with a description of the several classes, and of 37 varieties, with engraved outlines of 3! varieties. 13. The Cv.rra.nf — uses , propagation and cul- ture; with a description of lO fruit-beating and several ornamental varieties. 14. The Cramherrv —general remarks on its localities, culture, uses, &c. 15. The P'ls — historv, propagation, culture ; with a description of 15 varieties. !6. The Gooseberry — its history, uses, propa- gation and cultivation; with a description of 40 sorts, esteemed by Mr. Dov ning as most valua- ble. 17. The Grape — its history, uses, soil adapt- ed to its culture, propagation, cultivation under glas.s, with and without heat — descriptive fi- gure of a vinery — insects and diseases peculiar to the grape — a description of 35 varieties of foreign grapes, 3 of them figured in outline: Black Hanihnrsh, Noyal Aluscadine and White Alnsca.t of Alexn.ndr'ia. Also a chapter on the cultivation of the native grn.pes in the garden and vinevard — remarks on the diseases to which thev are liable, and a description of 12 varieties, 5 of them figured in outline, natui'al size, viz: the Bland, Cutawba, Elsinburgh, Isabella and Ohio. 18. The Mul>)crry. 16. The Nut- — Description and cultivation of the walnut, hickory nut, filbert, &c. 20, I’he Phiin. — Its history, uses, propaga- tion and culture — soil adapted to it — insects and diseases which attaclr it, with speculations on their causes, preventives and remedies, and description of 97 varieties, 26 of them figured in outline, natural size. 21. The Pear, as the author says, “the fa- vorite fruit of modern times and modern culti- vators.”— Its history, i?.ses, gathering and keep- ing the fruit, propagation, soil, culture, disea-s- es; with a description of 233 varieties, SO ot them represented in outline figures, natural size. 22. The Peach. — Its history, uses, propaga- tion, soil and situation — pruning, training, in-' sects and diseases, with quite an elaborate dis- quisition on the yellows; in which the author seems inclined to advocate the belief that this is a “constitutional taint,” existing in many American varieties of the peach, and pioduced in the first place by bad cultivation, instead of being, as many suppose, a “ contagious disease” — to which is adde.d, remarks on the di.slinctive characters ol the leaves of classes, and descrip- tions of 79 varieties. 23. The Necto.riue. — History, culture, &c., and description of 19 varieties. 24. The Quince. — History, uses, propaga- tion soil and culture, and description of 5 varie- ties, 3 fruit-bearing and 2 ornamental. 95. The Ra'^pberry and Blackbarry. 26. The Strawberry . — History, cultu.'’e, &c.— a description ol 36 varieties, with figures of the two newest and best American seedlings : Ho- vey’s and Ross’s. 27. I’he MusJi ATelnn. 28. The Wa’er Melon. 29 The Orange Family. 30. The Olive. 31. The Pomegranate. Tlien follows an essay on the “Duration of varieties of Fruit Trees,” and the book closes with a very useful appendage: a key to the pro- nunciation of French names. Jfo one Tastes so Good Fruit as lie who liaises Them. This is particularly true as regards the small fruits of summer. The black mulberry, it is stated in the Encyclopaedia Americana, is in perlection only a few moments, and that at the time when it can be detached from the tree by a slight shake of the branches. “All the fruit,” says Dr. Alcot “ but more particularly the ber- ries, are more or less subject to the same law.” The perfection of the strawberry lasts but an hour or two ; and even the pea, the bean, and Indian corn, lose much of their freshness and flavor, by being plucked the day before they are used. Those who raise fruits, therefore, may pluck and eat them when they are at perfect maturity, when they are more grateful to the palate, and most conducive to health. Those who buy them, on the contrary, must buy those that are prematurely gathered, or which have pa.ssed their best state, and are in the incipient process of decay. In general, part ol these objections lie against the summer fruits which are sold in the market— they are gathered be- j tore they are ripe, and they are in the progress I ot decay, flow important is it, therefore, that ! the lovers of good fruit, should take care to have it in perfection by selecting and cultivating the choice varieties. “The juices of all green fruits,” says Dr. Alcol, “are different from those of ripe ones. Their acids are less wholesome than after they are changed by the action of the sun in ripen- ing, nor does the addition of saccharine sub- stance in preparing them, at all change their real nature. They are onl" concealed. The oxalic acid is still oxalic acid, cook green fruit as you will. No culinary process, I repeat, can ! be substituted for, or produce the effect of the solar action. The Creator, in many instances, by means of the sun, performs the most perfect culinary processes, and nature is often the best kitchen and cook. The use of ripe fruits is admirably adapted to allay the feverish irritation of the stomach and bowels, at the seasons when they severally come to maturity; but unripe fruits, or those in the icipient stages of decay, ate calculated to in- crease these excitements,' and to generate dis- ease. Fruits should always become ripe in their natural way, and be eaten when they are in their hig'nest perfection.— Cultivator. Elevation of Agriculture as a Pursuit and a Profession. The pursuit of agricullure is almost univer- sally cemsideren as merely a profe.ssion of com- merce or trade, the farmer looking wholly to its pecuniary results. In a trading community, pecuniaiy considerations are always liable to control the judsment and predominate over every other consideration. Where the means are limited, and the farm must be cultivated as the only sou.''ce of subsistence, pecuniary re- turns must, of course, be the main object. Where, as in England, the cultivator is not the owner ot the soil, but an annual rent must be paid; and he is liable, as in most cases, to be compelled to quit his occupancy at the pleasure or the caprice of his landlord, farming must be conducted merely, as a matter of business, and there is no inducement to pursue the profession as a matter ot taste or sentiment. In many cases in my own country, it must, of necessity, be followed wholly as a means of support and of profit, and in some cases as a struggle for life. But there are innumerable other cases, in which men have the power, under the most fa- vorable circumstances, and 1 am most anxious they should have likew ise the disposition to de- vote them.selves to it as an elegant and litieral profession, worthy of a mind gifted even with the finest taste, and enriched by the highest cul- tivation. The United States present not many examples of very great wealth, at least when es* timated by the standard of wealth which pre- vails in England, where, indeed, are to be found individual accumulations which distance all the dreams of oriental magnificence. But, on the other hand, no country upon the globe, afid DO condition of things since the establishment of society, ever presented more favorably op- portunities than the United States for any one, by active and wholesome industry and a proper frugality, to acquire a competence, and that re- spectable independence, in which, with a full supply for the necessities of life, and an abun- dant provision for its comforts, there will be found within reach as many of the elegancies, and ornaments, and luxuries ot life, as a well- disciplined and healthful state of mind can re- quire. I have seen too frequently such beauti- ful examples in our country villages, and scat- tered over several parts of a land in many re- spects favored by Heaven above every other, not to be deepljr impressed wnth a condition of life which, where its blessings are properly and gratefully appreciated, seems to leave little more on earth for a rational and reflecting, a benevolent and truly religious mind, to ask. Happy is it w^here its waters are not poisoned by ati insatiate avarice, nor disturbed and thrown into confusion by ambition of political office or distinction, or a feverish thirst for no- toriety and excitement ; but in a quiet, yet not stagnant renose, they reflect everywhere the to- kens of that divine goodness, which seems in surh examples to have poured out its- richest earthly treasures. Now, 1 am anxious that ag- riculture should occupy that place among the liberal professions to which u can be raised, and to which, from its importance, it is entitled. But this can only be done by improving the edu- cation of farmers as a class— by multiplying, hrough the means ol a most liberal and extend- ed education, the charms of the country, and the subjects of interest whifh would be constantly' more and more developed to a cultivated and inquisitive mind ; and by showing that its suc- cessful pursuit, either as a matter of business or recreation, where a moderate fortune is pos- sessed or a moderate professional income is se- cured, is not incompatible with the highest im- provement of taste, and even a vigorous and successful pursuit of learning; and that, where so pursued, under favorable circumstances, it affords as fair a chance of rational enjoyment and quiet usefulness, as any situation which the mo.st lucrative trade, or the most successful po- litical ambition, or even the highest professional eminence, can command. But 1 fear, how much soever I may satisfy THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. the sober and reflecting minds on this point, my opinions and persuasions will scarcely be heard, and far less heeded, in that rush for wealth, for oflice, and for notoriety, which, like a torrent sweeping over the country, carries every mov- able object in its course. It seems, however, not less my duty to record my strong convic- tions, which the experience of a life not short has served only to confirm. I see in my own country, every where protiered to an honest in- dustry, a wise frugality, and a wholesome self- government, the most ample rewards: I see a wide extent of rich and beautiful territory wait- ing the improving hand ot skill and labor, to be had in many cases almost for asking, with eve- ry man free"^ to choose where he wi'l pitch his tent, not only without injury, but to the advan- tage of his neighbor: I see the means of edu- cation, of competence, and of substaniial inde- pendence, held out to all who will avail them- selves of them. In the midst of all this, i see thousands and thousands of young men, blest with education and fortunes adequate to supply all reasonable wants in the country, rushing in- to cities, exhausting their small means in the extravagancies and dissipations of lashionable life; crowding all the professions to repletion ; pressing on, wdth vexation and disappointment heaped upon vexation and disappointment, in- to all the avenues of poli'ical oflice and distinc- tion, and into all the bi ter strifes of political controversy; forcing their way into the pursuits of trade without talents lor their prosecution, and almost sure to involve themselves in bank- ruptcy and ruin ; and, in one form and another, dragging on through life without satisfaction to themselves and without usefulness to others, and too often a ruinous burden upon those whom it is now their turn to succor and relieve. 1 cannot, therefore, help wishing that the pur- suits of agriculture might be mtde attractive to such persons; and that with education, and that moderate fortune, which would give them the command-of the best advantages of rural life, they might find in it, as far as rational happi- ness and humble usfulness are concerned, that philosopher’s stone which in other places they are almost sure to search lor in vain. — Coleman's Agricultural Torcr, No. 3. Study of Botany by Baaies. Extract of a Lecture read before the Ladies’ Botanical Society, at Wilmington, Delaware, March 2, 1845. By. Dr. Wm. Darlington, of Chester, Pennsylvania: “ Of all the intellectual exercises kindly pro- vided lor us in this stage of being, few are more instructive or more agreeable to contemplative minds than the sfMcly of nalure — or, the investi- gation of the history, character, relal ions and purposes of the material i bjects which a wise and beneficent Creator has placed around us; and, of the several departments of what are call- ed the Natural Sciences, perhaps one of the most useful — certainly one of the most elegant and atiiactire — is that which embraces the va- ried products ol the veget-^biC creation. “The science of Botany has for its objects the most lovely of all the inanimate works of God, It treats of those beautiful forms which annually untold themselves to oar admiring gaze — which every where clothe and decorate the teeming surface of the earth, affording, di- rectly or indirectly, the sustenance of all ani- mals, and regaling every sense of every crea- ture that has capacity to be gratified. It is a science peculiarly appropriate to gentle minds. Its cultivation imp)osesno tax upon the feelings — involves, no crueltv — shocks no sensibilily ; all its incidents and attributes are promotive of corporeal health and pure intellectual pleasure. Why, then, should not a rational acquaintance with those interesting proilucts which surround us on every hand and are literally strewed along our paths, why should not such a science be made an indispensable branch of female edu- cation! As a mere occomplishmenl, it is enti- tled to rank with any of those ornamental ac- quirements to which so much time is devoted. As a means of enlarging and disciplining the mind, training it to habits of correct observation and profitable reflection, the study ot plants is far superior to many of the fashionable and fu- gitive attainments which now so generally en- gross the attention of young ladies. It is a pur- suit, loo, which carries wiih it its own rewaid. The knowledge which it affords is at once plea- sing in the arquisiiion, and of enduring value. It is continually called for and always at com- mand, ready to minister to the in.struction and gratification of the possessor, whether in the gar- den, the field or the forest. “ ‘ These studies,’ said the Roman orator on another occasion, and it is even more emphati- cally true on this, ‘ These studies are the intel- lectual nouiishmeni of youth, and the cheering recreation of age; they adorn prosperity, and are the solace and refuge of adversity ; thev are pleasant r-.r home, and are no incumbrance a- broad; thev abide with us by night — go with us in all our travels, and lend additional charms to the attractions of our rural retreats.’ “ Those who make only occasional visits or excursions in the country will find 'heir plea- sure greatly enha'^nced by an acquaintance with the plants which mainly contribute to the beau- ty ot the scenery : but, by those whose con- stant residence is in. the midst of the vegetable tribes,, a reasonable knowledge of Botany should be regardeii, not merely as an accom- plishment, but, as one of the indispensable qualifications for the duties of rural life. I have often insisted that an American Farmer should blush to be ignorant of tiie objects of his peculiar care; and I know not why a Farmer’s Wife or Danghf.pi should be entirely excused for a like deficienev in her attainments. C'm the contrary, I believe it is to wives and daugh- ters that we must look for the commencement of a thorough reformation. A competent knowied.ge o! the character and properties of those plants which interest the gardener and the agriculturist, is unquestionably desirable for both sexes: and I sincerely believe that the most effectual method of diffusing such infor- mation will be to invoke the friendly aid and countenance ol the ladies. Their salutary in- fluence has been felt and owned in many a no- ble cause, and I cannot doubt iheirefficacy here. “Some of my young friends, although, per- haps, asseniingto the justice of these views, may yet be inclired to object, that ifie science of botany is so encumbered with uncouth terms, and barbarous names, as to obscure its charms, and even render it repulsive to the youthful student. I am free to admit that appearances, at a first glance, seem to warrant the objection. I have experienced all its force, and can fully appreciate its influence upon others: but 1 can trn!vadd,for the encouragement ol beginners, ihat, when the .study is properly conducted and the subject comes to be rightly understood, the difficulty is rather se'cmvi g ihau real. It un- doubtedly appears enormous to the uninitiated — just as strange objects are apt to be magni- fied when encountered by twilight, or viewed through a mist; but there is no ground for dis- may or apprehetision. The supposed obstacle will either vanish when approached, or prove itself to be an aid, rather than an impediment, in the way of the learner. It is, indeed, impos- sible to describe objects or to communicate de- finite ideas without the employment of terms and names; yetthe.se are not science. Thev are but the nnplements — the iriere machinery with which the mind operates, and should onl\ be taken up or resorted to as they are wanted for use. It is w'orse than idle to commence by lumbering the memory will) hard words, of which the student comprehends neither the meaning nor the. application. Such a pkn, 1 admit, is calcui.ated only to disliearten and dis- gust. But, let I’.im begin, where all tiue know- ledge begins — by a practical acquaintance with things rather than with names— hy observing features and examining structures, and he will soon perceive the importance ol ferns by which to designate and distinguish the objects of his attention. When the investigator of plants comes to lake a discriminating view of the ve- getable tribes and observes the varied, yet defi- nite forms, and arrangement of the organs, which cons'itute their botanical character —so far from complaining of the burthen of names and terms, he will eagerly seek and adopt them, as indi.spensable aids in his progress ; and he will find, moreover, that, although many ap- pear harsh and arbiirarjq. the greater number are remarkably significant and appropriate. A moment’s reflection wiil convince any of us that even in the common occurrences of life, we cannot dispense with the names, and what maybe caifed technical terms, end that new ones are continually added to our stock, without an effort, and almost without onr consciousne.ss. When we make new' acquaimances among our own kind, especially if they are agreeable, we never think of such an objection as that of hav- ing to learn or remember their names: and even in the minor gratifications ol dress and personal cooifort, we are all very expert in acquiring the nomenclature— strange though it be — of such articles as attract our notice or suit our fancy. The facilitv with which young ladies become familiar witri the vocabularv of taste and fa.sh- ion —their admirable tact in discerning, and their fluency in discussing the qualities and patterns of Gimps and Ginghams, Gros des Indes ax\'.\ Monsseliws de Laine, s.atisfv me that f.e;A- nicolUies have no real terrors fordhem ; and the la'oguage of holany can never present anv se- rious obstacle to their progre.^s in the science — prnvidedxhat they have the will and the applica- tion: and i .desire no better evidence of the re- quisite disposition and effort than that which I have now the pleasure to wifness.” To pRRVE.NT Smut in Wiirat. — V/e have re- ceived, says the American Farmer, the annexed note, from the Hon. Wm. Carmichael, whose authoriiy with U5 is equal to that of any agri- culturist of our State : In the third volume of the Fanners’ Register, page 743, there is an account of a series of ex- periments, made by M. M. de Bombasle, for preserving wheat from the smut, one of which he found entirely succe,?slul, and peihaps some benefit may be derived from an account of ilu advantage I have derived from its application. Smut was brought on my farm by changin." my' seed wheat, and though it never extende. so far as to produce very serious injurv, f wa- very anxious to expel it: and, in the year 1813 I used the means in the ailicle I have referre. to, according to the manner therein directed At the next harvest, 1 found the smut much di minished but some still remained. Last fall 1 used the same means, under a different applica- tion. I dissolved in a large tub eighteen potind.s glauber salts in twenty'-iwo gallons of water. The wheat was thi-own into it, well w'ashecl, and so much ofthe solution as was not taken up was drawn ofifor further application; the wheat was then, put into a bed of quick lime (slaked immediately before being used) on rav barn floor, well stirred so as to produce adhesion to each grain, and then spread to dry. I have lately finished threshing. I Iiave ex- amined the wheat, and have not detected a smut ball. This is also the experience of my over- seer, and my most obseivant laborers. I donot know that the germinating power would he injured il it remained unsown for manv days under the lime, but to avoid the hazard, I have not permitted the wheal thus prepared to remain more than three days unsown. My neighbor Mr. W m. De Cour.'^ey, to whom I communicated the ex periments of Mr. Boni- basle, made one with common salt, by which the smut was much diminished, hut some still remained. My experiment with glauber salts has resulted in entire success. A gricui.tural I.nconsistrncirs.— Prejudice and error generally go hand in hand: a man may be allowed to indulge in obstinacy for his own gratification, but when society is affected by it, the sooner a netv light breaks in upon him the better. I proposed subsoiling my heavy 160 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. laiid lor beans, so as to admit the action of frost and air abundantly. A demurrer was instantly raised by a farmer present. Oh! we always plow shallow for beans. Weh, I know you do. Do you ever double-spit your gardens'? Ob, certainly we do. Do you ever grow beans in your garden ■? To be sure, capital ones. What, and that on double dug ground'? Impossible, surely. It would puzzle a conjurer to tell why a farmer always digs his garden 20 inches and plows his land only 5 inches. Docks, this- tles, couch, and other strong, deep rooted weeds are not to be found in his garden. What rea- son can a farmer give lor drilling his beans at 7 inches in his field and 27 in his garden ? Does the former mode give him a larger or earlier produce? Again, a farmer will caution you against sitting in a draught, or lying in a damp bed — of course, he takes care not to do so him- self, and recommends it to his friends, but pur- sues an entirely different plan with his cattle. They must be exposed to both, as if their sensa- tions and pnysiology differed in that respect from our own. Let us keep our cattle warm, dry and well fed, and we shall seldom feel the cramp in our pockets. — Chelmsford Chronicle. Cruelty to Animals. — In Henry Colman’s first Report on European Agriculture, there oc- curs a passage which does honor to the heart of the writer, and is worth the subscription money of the whole work. Alter speaking of the aqua- tic birds kept on the artificial lakes in the Parks of London, the protection there afforded to their lives and the consequent lameness of the birds, he continues, “Man, in general, is a great savage, and a ferocious beast of prey. He makes continual war upon many of the ani- mals below him, not for subsistence mere- ly, but for pleasure. His conduct towards the brute creation shows, too often, how certain he is to abuse unlimited power, and conveys a strong argument against despotic authority. Indeed, his war upon the birds merely as a matter of sport, always makes me look upon him with a degree of shuddering, and feel that a man who can find his pleasure in the wanton destruction of little birds, the mosr humble of all animals in their claims, the most delicate, innocent and pure in all their tastes and habits, and comparatively useless for food, puts him- self beyond the pale of humanity, and could scarcely, with safety, be trusted with a child. It were worth considering always how many of our pleasures are purchased at a most bitter ex- pense of happiness and life to others! Two or three days coursing, manly and healthful as the exercise on horseback undoubtedly is, and strongly exciting as the sport is, did not quite reconcile me to it; and the wailings and shriek- ings of the affrighted and dyin? bares in the jaws of the hounds, sounded in my ears for se- veral days afterwards like the cries ol expiring children.-r-Sos/mt Cidlivator. UIK. AN2? MKS. CJSAPIIAI^’S BSOAIS.15- ING A.ND DAY SCHOOL. Tfo. 228 Broad-street, Augusta, Geo. rpHlS INSTITUTION HAS BEEN UN- 1 DER the direction of its present Principals for se- ven years, and tiie snccess wiiich has attended it has enabled them greatly to increase the facilities it affords for tiie education of young ladies. Provision is made for thorough instruction in all the depar iments of fe- male education. I'he next term commences October Isl. Pupils can enter at any time during the term, and will be charged for the time they are members of the school. 'I’uition SS, and -Sto per quarter, ac- cording to the age and standing of the scltolar. Music and French at the usual rales. Board ^15 per month. y-dt G-ianSdN AND FIELD SEEDS. A GENERAL assortment of fresh and genu- ine Garden and Field Seed, among which are the following : Red and white clover. Blue and green grass. Rye and orchard do Timothy and herds do Millet and Lucerne do Seed corn of every valiia- Buckwheat Ieteorological Journal. “ 151 Mr. Meriwether’s Address — Notice of... “ 153 Sheep and Wool. “ 156 The Crops — The Drouth — Practical Hints “ 156 Wheat.-.. *' 152 SELECTIONS, EXTR.ACTS, &C. Agricultural Inconsistencies, pa Agriculture, elevation of as a pursuit and a profession Agricultural Instruction in common ySchools — Prof. Johnston’s second Lecture A Maryland Farm A Virginia Farm An Alabama Plantation Barn Yards Botany, Study of by Ladies Corn, Blading and Topping Cruelty to Animals* * * • Foolish Planters Fruits and Fruit Trees of America, the Gelling Poor on Rich Land and Rich on Poor Lai’.d Grasses for the /South Let Farmers Communicate — Improvement. . , . Manure Making No one Tastes so good Fruit as he who Raises Them Resuscitation of Worn-out Land Smut in Wheat, to pi event To Cook Tomatoes :e 159 145 147 147 148 149 159 150 160 150 158 150 149 150 157 158 151 159 151 LiINNvEAN BOTANIfl GARDEN AND NURSERY — (LATE PRINCE’S,) FLUSHING, L. I., NEAR NEW YORK. ^ THE NEW PROPRIETORS OF this ancient and celebrated NHR.sERY^, late of William Prince, deceased, and exclusively de- signated by the above title for nearly fitly years, offer ioc at reduced prices, a mote extensive variety of FRUIT AND ORNAMENTAL TREES, Shrubs, Vines, Plants. ’. ables Ihe agent to declare that the abundance r.' * material at the South, renders the ma.'ufactuir manure peculiarly adapted to the South' : n, n,sf. The right can be had on the following lernio ; — To Manure lUO acres land $10 “ “ 200 ‘* 15 “ “ 300 “ 20 Any extent 25 Address, Charles Bark, care of Wm. ityne, Waynes- boro, Ga,, or care of J. W. Jones, Augusta — post-paid. To correct all misapprehension with regard to the patent, the faliowing statement is submitted : Charles Baei and John Gouliart obtained letters pa- tent for the method, 24lh January, 1843, (Rec. Lib. 280 Patent office) and sold the right to the Northern and Eastern Stales, to George Bommer. Afterwards, Baer and Gouliart look into the firm Thomas M. Abbott, and continued to sell the right to the /Southern and West- ern States, under the style of Abbott .cid. 2 12 Magtiesia 4 72 j Phosphorit; Acid.." l.OS .ilumina “ !2 | Chlorine ‘‘ 0.12 With a knowledge oi these facts and the fur- ther knowledge cf therropenies of each manu how easy and h.-w agreeable is ihs pu s >it ' r the farmer to ad I increased fertility to his soi', while he draws increased crops from his lani-. Bu‘ chemical science not only gives this know'ledge to the farmer, but it enables him to learn the value of foods, and the most profita- ble use of them. He aseertaius the properties of one kind to give fiesh to his animals, and of another to give fat — and what particular kinds will accomplish his object the soonest. Fieshform'.ng Fit fcrm'ng princi] !e. '' principle. Peas contain parts 5t parts. Beans “ 31 •• 52 '• Oats “ lOA “ 6S “ Barley “ 14 “ 63 “ Hay “ S '= 63 Turnips “ I “ 3 Poiaioes 2 “ .,.24.^ “ Ind.Corn“ ,.12^ “ 77 “ Thus it will be seen that there is a great dif- ference in the different kinds ot food to form fat cr flesh. Peas and beans give flesh; corn, oats and barley give fat. Again, he ascertains another important fact bv chemical science ; the rel-aiive value of the different kinds of food for either purpose of fat or fiesh. Sixty pounds good hay from clover are equal in nutriment to 100 lbs. common hay 7 23i of potatoes 7 520 of wheat, or bailey straw ; 574 cf oat straw ; ClQ-lbs of turnips; 20 lbs. of beans ; 31 lbs veliow peas; 49 lbs. wheat; 5l lbs. cf rye ; 54 lbs. oats, and 59 lbs. of barley. It is by the aid of 'oook-farvung, that the farm- er ascertains the existence of ail iheseimroT'an facts — and without a knowledge of them, the true principles of agricultural economy can never be applied or practised. Our Legislature some few years since seem- ed to he impressed with the importance of plac- ing agri-eultural information in the possession of the people, and ordered a geological survey ol the State 7 one of the objects ot which was to 162 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. obtain an analysis ol the soils, and the exist- ence of the different kinds of natural feitilizers. Some ten thousand dollars were appropriated and spent, and because the benefits the work were not realized in the shape of principal and interest compounded annually in dollars and cents, the rvork was abandoned, and the people have been shut out from the information which had been obtained. The cost of these surveys is trifling when compared with the actual bene- fits derived from them; and n'>ay I not urge this assoeiatios to undertake an examination of the lands of its members? The example will doubtless be followed by others. In the remarks I am about submitting, it is not my purpose to attempt a dissertation on the constituents of soils, and the manner in w hich all vegetation derives support from them. I shall advert mostly to elementary principles, on which as a basis practical operations may de- pend. In the first place, plants derive their chief food from the soil. In all soils there is what is called humus, which is the dark colored substance weseeon thesurface, and it is nothing more than vegetable and woody fibres in a state of decay. This is the source from which plants are saiLo be diiectly nourished, and it is re- garded as the chief element of fertility. With- out it, vegetation exists very imperfectly, and in the proportion in which it does exist is esti- mated very much the value of soils. Humus, however, is not the only constituent of soil, and it will not of itself produce and sustain vegeta- tion. There must likewise be clay and sand in the soil. Clay is valuable and indispensable on many accounts; it increases the fertility of the soil by the adhesion which it contracts with water, by the solid support which it afiords to the roots of plants, as well as by the resistance it presents to the too great extension of their roots— by preventing the atmospheric air from coming in contact with the roots of the plants, and by attracting oxygen, the substance which is so necessary for the formation of carbonic acid. The properties of clay demonstrate the necessity and profic of deep plowing; and it is from a correct understanding ol them, that has originated the use of the subsoil plow’, one which penetrates and breaks the clay, without mixing it with the soil, and which should be u.sed by every farmer, Ax\ excess of clay is, however, injurious to plants, because in damp weather it retains the water with which it is impregnated too long, thereby preventing evaporation.and draining — because in dry weather it becomes too hard — because “ it forcibly attracts and incorporates with itself the nutritive juices contained in the manure bestowed upon it, and will not part with them for the support of ihe plant.” Wash- ed hill-sides are unproductive, because of the presence of too much clay, and the application of manure therefore does not furnish corres- ponding benefits. The best treatment for such barren spots is to spread a large quantity of sand upon them, mix the sand and clay by plowing and then the farmer will find a profita- ble return in the manure he may apply. Sand, however, becomes injurious to land where it enters loo largely into the composition of the soil — because it is not sufficiently reten- tive of moisture — because “ it does not combine with the humus or decayed vegetable matter, and hardly enters into a physical union with it sufficiently strong to absorb those fertilizing particles w'hich the atmosphere contains” — be- cause frequent cultivation destroys its cohe- rence, and because sandy soils being goon con- ductors of colorrc, thev transmit the influences of severe heat or cold immediately at each sud den change which the temperature of the atmos- pht.;c- undergoes. These are the respective properties of clay and spnd as described by the chemist Thaer. The soil in our own county does not possess an excess of sand. Clay predominates with ns, and hence the inqivry which we have to make 19, how shall we improve our clay hill-sides? 1 have already anticipated that question in part, in the prescription of sand forgaWe^^ or worn- out spots. This is the basis on which we must rest onr system of manuring. The next question is, how shall we prepare and apply a manure which shall multiply their production ? We uted the very best manure — we require the greatest quantity -possible of it — omdvje desire to make it upon the very cheapest plan, omd •with theleait labor and trouble. Here is our necessity, now how shall it be re- lieved? There are many valuable manures, by the application of which, our lands would be greatly improved; but vhether they are all wilbin our reach is a different matter; we can- not adopt the use of any which, in common language, “costs more than it comes to.” Lime, marl, green sand, gypsum or plaster of pari.?, guano, charcoal, are all valuable fertil- izers, and if properly applied would soon re- store the fertility’- of our once rich soil. Lime produces astonishing effects — but yet to be valuable the land must be manured upon which it is applied, for the heavy crops conse- quent upon its apnlica'ion are said to be the re- sult of the earthy exhaustion of the humus so necessary for vegetation. “ It acts by accelera- ting the decomposition of the humu.?, and mak- ing it soluble, and thus fit to enter the min lue fibres of ihe roots ot plants. It also deprives sour Aitm-iis of its acidity and renders it fertiliz- ing.” On lands containing a great quantity of sour humus, the effects of lime are most benefi- cial. “ When animal manure has been applied for some time, lime becomes a valuable manure by decomposing the particles of vegetable mat- ter in it, and thus making them food for plants.” “ Repeated ameliorations of lime will soon ex- | haust poor and sandv soils and reduce them to absolute steiility. Each application of it ex- hausts more and more of the humus until it is gone ; the only lemedy left is to restore to the land vegetable matter.” L.ime would make our clay lands more valuable by rendering them more friable, but it is a manure which in mid- dle Georgia we cannot hope to employ. Marl is another valuanlc manure, and is a “natural mixture of chalk, shells, or carbonate ol lime in some of its forms, with clay or sand, or both.” Professor Johnson says of it, that “ it renders clay lands more open and friable, and to all soils brings an addition of carbonate and generally of phosphate of lime, both of which are proved by experience to be not only very influential, but to be absolutely necessary to healihv vegetation.” Green sand is likewise a valuable feriilizer, containing but little lime, and valuable because ol the potash it contains. In New Jersey extensive experiments have been made with it, and the fact is stated to have been satisfactorily ascertained, that one bushel ol greensand was equal to ten bushels of stable manure. Both these substances exist in oar own county, and sufficiently so to authorize tl eir general application, and a small sum of money spent in a geological survey would de- velope their localities. They are said to exist abuQdantly in Morgan, Green and Baldwin. Some few years since I submitted specimens ol marl taken from my own well and that of Mr. Michael Dennis, in this place, to the examina- tion of Professor Coiling, then State Geologi-st, both of which he informed me were very rich. Gypsum or Plaster of Paris, and Guano, are both valuable manures ■ the first is said not to be available in the production of corn, wheat and oats — the latter is a most powerful fertilizer, and upon poor lands will produce a most as- tonishing effect ; but its cost is too great to ad- mit of use on our farms. An artificial guano has been manufactured, which is said to be equally valuable with the natural, and in time mav be made so cheap as to admit ot general use. Charcoal is a manure which is well worth the attention of our farmers, and is within the reach ot every one. It is more lasting in its ef- fects than any other, and alike active and fertil- izing. It acts by absorbing the ammonia from the atmo-sphere, and from all surrounding ob- jects, and holds it thus fixed as food to the roots of plants as they require it. Some plants are ^ more benefitled by it than others, yet ail are pro- moted by it. It should be applied to wheat, oats, corn, &c. Considerable economy maybe practiced in its preparation, by burning two or more kilns on the same ground, and breaking the coal to pieces on it— the portion left after raking offthe large pieces will render the earth as valuable lor manure as the coal itself; then spread at the rate of -20 to 50 bushels to the acre. The coal should be powdered in a trough or other vessel which will save it from loss. I have tried it upon several kinds ol plants, and astonishing results have followed its applica- tion. I have discovered that the coal which had been burnt two years produced much great- er effects than that of comparatively recent pre- paration. The wheat crop in Prance is said to be increased annually several millions of bu- shels by the use of it. The question left for our consideration then, is, under the eircumsiances, what kind of ma- nure is the cheapest, best, and most abundant .'or our purposes? It is farm-yard manure; and this suits all kinds of crops the best, be- cause it is compounred of all the ingredients which constitute the difierent crops grown. Johnson, in his “Farmers’ Encyclopaedia,” says, “ ol all the fertilizers the most useful and most valuable to the culiivatorand yet the most generally mismanaged, is farm-yard manure, which has often been described as the farmer’s sheet anchor.” “ The inr.nure commonly fur- nished by the farm-yard is compounded of a mixture of anijnal and vegetable substances, of the putrefying straw of various descriptions of grain mixed wi'b the excrements and urine ot I cattle, horses and swine.” Nothing indeed ap- pears so simple at first sight as the collecticn and manulacture of this dung, and yet there are endless sources of error into which the cultiva- tor is sure to fall if he is not vigilant in their management. Horse dung thrown up in heaps very soon ferments and heats to an excess ; the centre of the heap is charred or burned to a dry white substance called firefanged, and in this state it loses from one half to three-fourths its value.” Again, he says, “the recent manure loses weight by lying in the farm-yard. The mois- ture evaporates and volatile matters escape by fermentation. By the time that the straw is halt rotten this loss amounts to one-fourth of the whole weight, while the bulk is diminished one-half. If allowed to lie still longer the loss increa.ses, till at length it may approach to one- half of the whole, leaving a weight of dung lit- tle greater than that of the food and straw which have been consumed.” “ In the short period of 24 hours, horse dung heats an'’ btgins to suffer loss by fermentation. Ifleftin a heapfortwoor three weeks scarcely seven-tenths of its original weight will remain. Hence the propriety of earlv removing it from the stable and of mixing it as soon as possible with some other material bv which the volatile substances given off' may be absorbed and saved. The cold and rotten cow or hog dung will answei well for this pur- pose, or soil rich in vegetable matter, or peat or sawdust, or powdered charcoal ; with peof or saw-dust, it will form a rich compost, and to soils which contain much inert vegetable mat- ter, it can be applied with great advantage.” In our warm climate evaporation and fermen- tation have to be particularly guarded agamst, for they readily occur, and it is difficult to pre- vent either, unless by mixing the stable manure with earth. Dr. Jackson, in hisadlress before the last Agricultural Society of Massachusetts, says, “the most common method of making a com- post with peat or swamp muck is to mix three loads of the peat with one ofdung,and to allow the whole to undergo putrefactive changes. Then, previous to spreading it on the soil, a bushel of recently slaked lime should be mix- ed with each load of compost. It is usual to mix the lime in the Spring 10 to 14 days be- fore spreading the manure.; the lime should be slaked until it falls into powder.” Again, he says: "Peat is valuable as a basis for corn^ THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 163 pc?L, Dot only :j;i acco"ni of ihe large propor- tion of vegetable ruaiter it contains, and the sa- line matters in it. br.t also, because it retains moisture. 1; is also when irv a good absorber and retainer ol hhat, and thus ser.'es to main- tain a higher r.e.T-f.«rraiure in the fields during night. Char-’onl .ni-so has tids proper v, and lan.l sprinkled v. itb it was ‘-ound, by an experi- ment I made tec yea."s ago. to be o: a higher temperature than that adjoining it.’’ The editor of the American Farurer" says that the richest . f manure may be saved upon an easy and cheao p'an. Let the larmer mix with his horsT and otherducg irrequal portions, layer apofi iaye.'', aimos’ any rich ea.'^rb or mould, aci as he does so, let ni u have grouod plaster or pnirei’zoi charcoal, sifted orer each layer in the proporior. of a bushel of the first an(' two of the laue^ to every t4;ent. loads of dung thus ini.xed wi h the earh or mould. The manure heap when thus relormed, should be covered over ten itir-hes with earth of some kind, the whole to present a cone-’ike shape so as to car- ry off the water.’’ Peatsuoida be spread in the stable to.absorb the urine, which is the most valuable part of animal maai/re. -One cf ihe best, if not the ve- ry best, modes of making manure in our cli- mate is to spread both leaves and peat in the stable — permit them to remain until wellsatu- : rated with urine, and until the leaves have be- come well tro'den and the dung and neat mix- ed; then t.Pro’.v into a heap, addi g peat un’i! it exceed-s the dung in the proportion of three to one. By such means the ^nyniih'y tviil be verv greatly increased, the dung prevented from fer- mentation, and all the ammonia which would otherwise escape and be lost, would te preserv- ed and absorbed by 'he peat, and the whole mass become better food for p'ar.ts than the or- di.nary dang. If. a strong smell like hartshorn should afanv lime arise in the stable, spffnkle powdered charcoal and it will be arrested. This smell is the ammonia escaping, wliich forms the chief food for plants. The manure heap should at all times be protected from both sun and ram ; if a pit be dug into which the ma- nure is throwD, it will be better preserved. A great object with the farmer is to multiply in every conceivable way the quantity of ma- nure. He cannot rely alone upon that irom the stable — a s cattle are a valuable source on which he can depend. Professor Johnson says, “cow-dung forms by far the largest proportion of the animal manure which in modern agricul- ture is at the disposal of the practical farmer. It ferm.erits more_ slowly than that of the horse ED.i the sheep. It acts more slowly, though for a longer period, when applied lO" the soil. Bv exposure to the air i: undergoes a sensible loss, -which in 40 days has been found to equal one- fifth of the whole solid matter which recent cqw dung contains. Although, therefore, the com- parative slow fermentation as well as the soft- nss.s of CO w-dungfitsit better fortreading among the straw in the open farm yard, yet the serious loss which it ultimately undergoes will satisfy the economical farmer that the more efieclually he can keep it covered up. or the sooner he can gather his rni.xel dung and straw into heaps the greater proportion of this valuable manure will be retaiued for the future enriching of his fields,” It is very valuable and should be saved; andiasieadoi permitting it to be dried up by the sun, or washed away by the rains, as it now is, let leaves be spread in the cowpens, and let peat be spread like .’"ise ; th-e urine will thus t-s preserved, as well as the excrement. If the dung couitl he cnllecfed daily and mixed in ! equal portions with peat the quaritity would be doubled, andthe vaiueimproved. Anaddition- al source of supply o! manure mav be had by tpreacing leaves and peat in the hog-pen, by which the urine, will be absorbed and preserved apd a compost made with 'Lhe dang. As a ba- sis for all compost, paal is the very best^be- cause it retains moisture to a greater extent thaa^ any other earth, and hence will suitour dry and warm seasons. Professor Johnson says of it, '• to soils which are dedeient in vegetable mat- ' ter, it is clc.cr that a judicious admixture of peat n.ust prove advantageous, because it will sup;'.]y some at least cf those substances which are necessary to liie p-oduction of a higher de- gree of fc-rtility. It decavs very slowly in the air, and hence its apparent efieci when mixed with the soil is very small. I; will not imnte- diately prepare the land for ine growth of any particular crop; but if its decay be promoted then its immediate and apparent effect upon the soil is increased, and it becomes an acknow- ledged fertilizing manure. The half dried peat ! may be mixed with from one-fourth to one-half its weight of iermenting farm-yard manure— the heap lieing covered with peat to prevent the es- cape of fertilizing vapors —Or the liquid of the farm vard may be employed for the same pur- pcsed' [Ccn luded inour next yo.l The History of the Thrifty and Unthrifty. BY A XEIGEBOR. From the Amsrican Agricallora! .Xlmanae. Id the neighboring vidage hard bp-, there are two farmers of equal standing as regards hon- ssty of purpose, benevolence of intention, and ad the social virtues. They both mean to dis- charge all their duties to society, their families and friends, and it is only when we try them by their performances that we find anv striking dirrerence. But to mark their qualities more lully, and affcrd instructio.u through the succes sire progression ob their parenmge, youth and manhood, we, must notice them dis inctivin each. Tlieir F, -tiers. — They were both b..rn in Ihe village where ‘hey now ;eside, and of equally reputable parents. Both were farmers and re- spectable members of society. The same year that the father of Thrifty was sent to the G-ene- lal Assembly, the father or Unthrifty received lhe commission for the office of Justice of the Peace. There was a slight difference in their respective chaiacters in only one particular. They were both “ well to do in the world,” as : the phrase is ; bat whilethe elder Unthrifty had ' inherited all his property, a pan of which he j had already spent by bis easy good nature and : somewhat in lolent hnbits, the father of Thrifty ! had been a poor boy and worked his own way j in the world, and having married early in life, ■ had brought up a large family; while the other j had but this only son. i Tndr Mothers. — The greatest diffe.'ence, bow- j ever, in their parents, was in their mothers. Like her husband, Mrs. Thrifty was a poor child and an orphan, buthad been ‘-brought up” by a widowed aunt in habits of great industry, ; order, and economy. She was early taught to ; have a place for eve ything, and everything in j its place; to waste nothing and spend no ti.me | in idleness; and when her work was done in- : stead of sczzling away her time, playing with . the kitten or her apron strings, or sauntering I with Goody Tittletattla’s girls, and gossiping about the young me-n, she devoted her leisure j hours to reading useful books, or making up , counterpanes, knitting stockings, and other at- | tides that migat be useful : so that when she had become one-and-twenty, she not only had , her mind well informed, but had made up quite ^ a wardrobe for herself, and had acquired so good a character that iirs. Thrifty thought, and righth' enough too. .she was a very good match as a wife. Mrs. Unthrifty, on the other hand. • had been indolently and induigently educated! and always having enongh cn hand, without ; any necessity for looking out for herself, her i parents ” well off,” she arrived at what ought to j be “years of discretion,” without anv parlicu- = lar habits of any kind; yet being a pretty, amia- ! ble gir,. and withal, having a prospect cf inherit- ! ing some money. Unthrifty thought himself a : lucky dog in securing her as a partner for life. Their Boyhcci. — 1 he bovs went to the same district school, yet though Unthrifty was nearly two years the oldest, little Thrifty soon caught up to him in his studies, when being put in the same class, he easily got above hira, and after generally stood at the head, while Unihriitv f -tood at the foot. This was not owing to any I wa-rt of cuteness cn t.he part of Jce, or Josey as ; he was gece.'’al]y called, for occasionally when any prize was ofiered that Joe wan’ied to obtain, ' he would, by a ’idle application, get ahead of ; all the boys and secure the prize; while Tom, as they called young Thrifty, ’would study with all his alight wiihcat coming within arm’s length of Joe, At hunting, fishing o'frclicking I of any kind, which »’equiied ingenuity or skill, I Joe was sure to be ahead of all his playmates. I But then his habits were negligent, he was half ■ the time late at school, his lessons given him : over night not half learned when he got there, ! and he bad very little idea cf mindi-cganv of i the rules; not that he was stubborn or bad tem- ! pered, bat he “.didn’t see any use in .sitiingiD j h's own seat for three hours together, and learn- : ing arithmetic, geography and grammar, nei- ■ iher of which wouid help to tree a squirrel, hole ! a fox, catch a tront, or bring down a tut key at a i shooting march.” Tom was always punctual at school, always had his lesson learnt, though ' he had to work haid lor it, and always did as he was bid by the master, simply because his pa- j rents told him this was the only -way to make a .man of himself — and he believed them. Josey’s parents indulged him as they indulged them- selves. and le- him take pretty much his own course as they had done before him, and it was universally believed had the boys swopped pa- rents when they wem babies, Joe would have been the smartest scholar of the two. Grown Up. — The boys got to be men while I the- still rhough: ihey were your.gsters, and be- I fore they were ihree-an-d-twenty both -were mar- j Tied to voang women in the village, somewhat alter their own character, Thdr Wives. — Tom’s wife was the daughter of a poor, but hard-working wagon maker, and had always been accustomed to indust.nous ha- bits, while the wife of Joe had received many more advantages in school, though it is said she had misimproved ihem ; but she could do worst- ed embroidery, draw pretty well from a copy, ; and play ccmmon psalm tunes, Yankee Dco- j die, and contra dances on the piano. Their Geciipati&n.— Tom took to farming as i his father had done before him, and as he had I nothing to begin with, he rented a small farm ■ which his lather helped him to stock. He had of his own, a pair of oxen, a few sheep, and some tools, which a couple of years of hard ser- vice since he “came of age,” had enabled him to purchase and his wife besides had three good cows, given her by her mother, while her father gave him a good second-hand ox wagon, Tom and his wife went “ right” to work. They were np by daylight in the morning, and by the time he had his “ chores” done, the cows milk- ed and turned to pasture, the oxen carried, fed and yoked, and the pigs provided for, breakfast was'on the table, so that he was ready to go out to his day’s work by the time Josey and his wife had “ turned out of bed.” In five rears after he was married and went to farming, Tom had actually got “fore-hand- ed” enough to buy a farm near him, which was naturally very good land, but had “ run down” from the shi'tlessoess of the former owner; for which he paid .32,000 in cash, out of his own earnings, which were pretty much all used up by the former occupant, in paying off’ execu- tions and debts against him, and he had just enough left to carry him to iVlichigan, to begin the world at forty, when Tom began at twenty- one. A mortgage of 61,000 slid due on the place, he assumed to pay to the merchant in the village who had taken it some time be.ffire in payment of all old scores, including some S200 costs which had accumulated against the debtor. Josey had a first-rate farm, too, which had been given to him by his father, who also stock- ed it -with all the horses, cattle, sheep and pigs Jce wanted, bat Josey “ some how or other,” hadn’t met with very “ good luck,” as he called it. Indeed, ’twas some time before Josey deci- ded he would take to farming at all. Joscy's professwnal Inclination. — His father and mother, before him, had baeen in good deal 164 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. of a quandary) whether their son, on whom they thought as all parents generally do, espe- cially if they have but one, was not rather too good for farming. He used to loiter about the bar-roora when his lather tried the suits before him, and he had picked up a good many legal phrases Iro n the smart young attorneys who used to spout there. He could tell what was a “ cause of action," whether the “case should be brought as an action of tort, or an action of froner,” or simply “as an action on the case.” But though often thinking about it, and rather urged by his ambitious parents, he found so many hard words in looking into B’.acksiune, the “ Pons osinoriim” of all :egal aspirants, that he concluded he would not attempt it. His friends afterwards thought it a great pity, as if he had only got into practice, the law w’ould give him hi's fees, whether he rendered any ser- vice to his client or not. Other friends equally lamented he did not take hold of medicine, for which he at one time had quite an inclination, but from which he was deterred by an indolent and unsuccessful attempt a' mastering the tech- nical names of disea.ses and their remedies, in that horn-book of young Galena, the Dispensa- ry ; as they said, “ if he only got a run of cus- tom, he was sure to pocket his fees, as no man living could tell what kind of medicine hegives. if his patients got well in spite of the medicine, be was a first rate doctor, and if they didn’t, ’iwas the fauH of the disease; and as for a trial for mal-practice, it must be decided by the doctcs themselves, and it they gave it against him, they would be the losers, as it would unsettle confi- dence in the profession. But if he went to farm- ing, and didn’t plant and sow right, and do his harvesting at the proper time, or let his cattle die of disease or neglect, he would have to bear the loss himself, as the law didn’t compel his customers, in that case, to pay him for what he didn’t sell them.” In short, before they were thirty, Thrifty and Unthrifty had at last got on the same platform or level, lor Tom had by this time paid up for his farm, and had it well stock- ed, and was entirely out of debt. Thrifty's Parming. — But the see-saw did not stop when it brought them to this position, for Tom kept going up while Josey kept going down. His father could not help him anymore, as he had only enough left to carry him and his wife through the world, while Tom had the pros^ct of getting some money from his fa- ther’s estate, who had lately died and left a snug property. But the great difference was in their own management. Thrifty’s plowing was al- ways done in the right time, his crops were in early, and they were harvested as soon as ready to cut; his manure was always carried out and spread on the ground ; his orchards were well planted and grafted with the best fruits, and he soon had the choicest to sell, which being better than his neighbors, always commanded a high price, besides supplying his own family with all they could use. The orchard was indeed one of the most profitable things of his farm. His tempting ripe peaches, with bread and milk, made a luscious meal for himself and his little ones. The rich sweet apples and baking pears, when cooked without any addition of sugar or molasses, was “ sauce” good enough for a king ; and it is hardly going beyond the truth to say, that it saved him a barrel of pork a year, besides giving him a luxury which any one might envy. His garden was always the best, for he chose a good spot for it, manured it abundantly, had its seeds in early, and what was best of all, he usually spent a half hour in it with his hoe before the dew was off, by which he secured an early, rapid growth, and his gar- den made up a third of his summer’s living, be- sides giving good vegetables through the win- ter. His cows were well chosen and well fed, and were another great help to his living. Be- sides this, his wife made butter and cheese enough to buy all the groceries, which dM not come to much, as they made thei rown maple-su- gar and molasses, and used little tea or coffee and no spirits or wine. His sheep have good fleeces and lambs. The last gave them choice mutton whenever they wanted fresh meat, and besides ' they occasionally sold some to the butcher, and having got a good name for fine lambs, they al- ways brought a large price. His wife made her own stocking yarn, and home-made flannel, and put out the remainder of the wool on shares to be worked into satinet.^, and lulled cloth, and flannel, so that theii half not only furnished what they wanted lor their own u-e, but gave them some besides to pay theirhired men. His fences were always up, and he never suffered from the depredations of his own or neighbors’ cattle. His children were punctual at school, and the whole lamily as punctual at church. All were neat and tidy, for Mrs. Thrifty was as busy and managing within, as he was without, and as was to have been guessed, Thrilty made rapid progress in “getting on in ihe w'orld.” Josf peaches sent to market from Newcastle the present season. James Pedder. Philadelphia, Sept. 1, 1845. P. S. Philip Reybold’s address is St. Georges, Delaware. The Apple Trade* From Hovey’s Magazine of Horticulture. Progress of Horticulture in Indiana. — The Horticultural Society’s Fair is held annu- ally, on the 4ih and 5ih of October. Experi- ence has shown that it should be eailier;lor, although a better a.«8orlment of late fruits, in which, hitherto, we have chiefly excelled, is se- cured, it is at the expense of small fruits and flowers. The floral exhibition was meagre, the frost having already visited and despoiled our gardens. The chief attraction, as, in an agricultural community, it must long continue to be, was the exhibition of fruit. My recol- lection of New England fruits, after an absence of more than ten years, is not distinct; but ray impression is, that so fine a collection of fruits could scarcely be shown there. The luxuri- ance of the peach, the plum, the pear and the apple, is such, in this region, as to afford the most perfect possible specimens. The vigor of fruit trees in such a soil and under a heaven so congenial, produces fruits which are very large without being coarse-fleshed , the flavor concentrated, and the color very high. It is the constant remark of emigrants from the east, that our apples surpass those to which they have been accustomed. Many fruits which I remember in Connecticut as light colored, ap- pear with us almost refulgent. All summer and early fall apples were gone before our ex- hibition; but between seventy and a hundred varieties of winter apples were exhibited. We never expect to see finer. Our most popular winter apples are : Yellow Bellflower, White Bellflower, [called Detroithy the gentlemen ot Cincinnati Horticultural Society, but lor rea- sons which are not satisfactory to my mind. What has become of the White Bellflower of Coxe, if this is not it?] Newtown Spitzenberg, exceedingly fine with us; Canfield, Jennetin or Neverfail, e.scaping Spring frosts by late blos- soming, very hardy, a great bearer every year; the fruit comes into eating in February, is ten- der, juicy, mild and sprightly, and preferred with us to the Green Newtown pippin — keeping full as well, bearing belter, the pulp much more manaseahle in the mouth, and the apple has the pecu iar property of bearing fro.sts, and even freezing, without material injury; Green New- ton pippin ; Michael Henry Pippin, (very fine;) Pryor’s Red, in flavor resembling the New Eng- land Seek-no-further, Golden russet, the prince oi small apples, and resembling a fine buUer-pea" rnore nearly than any spple in our orehard?-=-ar; 166 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. enormous bearer; some limbs exhibited were clustered with fruit, more like bunches of grapes than apples; Milam, favorite early winter; Ram- bo, the same. But the apple most universally cultivated is the Vandevere pippin, only a se- cond or third rate table apple, but having other qualities which quite ravish the hearts of our farmers. The tree is remarkably vigorous and healthy; it almost never tails in a crop ; when all others //rtss, the Vandevere pippin Atfs ; the fruit, which is very large and comely, is a late winter fruit, yet swells so quickly as to be the first and best summer cooking apple. If its flesh — which is coarse — were fine, and its (too sharp) flavor equalled that of the Golden rus- set, it w'ould stand without a rival, or near neighbor, at the very head oi the list of winter apples. As it is, it is a first-rate tree, bearing a. second-rate ap^\e. A hybrid between it and the Golden russet, or Newtown Spitzenberg, appropriating the virtues of both, would leave little more to be hoped for or wished. The Baldwin has never come up to its eastern repu- tation v/ith us; the Rhode Island Greening is eaten for the sake of “ auld lang syne;” the Roxbury russet is not yet in bearing — instead of it, several false varieties have been present- ed at our exhibitions. All the classic apples of your orchards are planted here, but are yet on probation. Nothing can exhibit better the folly of trust- ing to seedling orchards f( r fruit fora main sup- ply, than our experience in this matter. The early seiilers could not bring trees Irom Ken- tucky, Virginia or Pennsylvania, and, as the next resort, brought and planted seeds of popu- lar apples, A later population found no nurse- ries to supply the awakening demand for fruit trees, and resorted also to planting seed. That which at first sprang from necessity has been continued from habit, and from an erroneous opinion that seedling fruit was better than grafted. An immense number of seedling trees are found in our State. Since the Indiana Horticultural Society began to collect speci mens of these, more than one hundred and fifty varieties have been sent up for inspection. Our rule i.s to reject every apple which— the habits of the tree and the qualification of its fruit being considered — has a superior or equal already in cultivation. Of all the number pre- sen ed, not six have vindicated their claims to a name or a place, and not more than ikree will probably be known ten years hence. While, then, we encourage cultivators to raise seed- lings experimentally, it is the clearest folly to reject the established varieties and trust to in- ferior seedling orchards. Prom facts which I have collected, there have been collected during the past year, in this State, at least one hundred thousand apple trees. Every year the demand increases. It is supposed that the next year will surpass this by at least twenty-five thousand. In connection with apple orchards, our farm- ers are increasingly zealous in pearcultivation. We are fortunate in having secured to our nurseries not only the most approved old varie- ties, but the choicest new pears of British, Con- tinental or American origin. A few years ago to each one hundred apple trees, our nurseries sold, perhaps, two pear'irees ; now they sell at least twenty to a hundred. Very large pear orchards are established, and in some instances are now beginning to bear. I purchased Wil- liam’s Bon Chretien in our market last fall lor 75 cents the bushel. This pear, with the St. Michael’s, Beurre Dial, Beurre d’Aremberg, Passe Colmar, Duchesse d’Angouleme, Seckel and Marie Louise, are the most widely diflus- ed, and’all of them regularly at our e.vhibitions. Every year enables us to test other varieties. The Passe Colmar and Beurre d’Aremberg have done exceedingly well — a branch of tl;e latter, about eighteen inches in length, was ex- hibited at our Fair, bearing over twenty pears, none ot which were smaller than a turkey’s egg. The demand lor pear trees this year, has been such that our nurseries have not been able to answer it, and they are swept almost entirely clean. I may as well mention here that, be^ sides many more neighborhood nurseries, there are in this State eighteen which are large and skilfull)" conducted. The extraordinary cheaphess ol trees favors their general cultivation. 'Apple trees, not un- der ten feet high, and finely grown, sell at 10, and pears at 20 cents, and in' some nurseries, apples may be had at G cents. This price, it should be recollected, is in a community where corn brings from 12 to 20 eents only, a bushel ; wheal sells from 45 to 50; hay at $5 the ton. During the season of ’43 and ’44, apples of the finest sorts — Jennetin, Green Newtown pippin, &c.— sold at my door, as late as April, lor 25 cents a bushe 1, and dull at that. This winter they command 37 cents. Attention i.s increas- ingly turned to the cultivation ot apples for ex- portation. Our inland orchards will soon find an outlet, both to the Ohio river by railroad, and the Lakes by -canal. The effects of such a deluge of fruit is worthy of some speculation. It will diminish the price but increase \.\ie profit of fruit. An analogous case is seen in the penny-postage system of England. Fruit will become more generally and largely an article, not of luxury, but of daily and ordinary diet. It will find its way dowm to the poorest table, and the quanlily- consumfd will make up in profit to the dealer v/hat is lost in lessening the price. A few years and the apple crop will be a matter of reckoning by farmers and specula- tors, just as is now tlie i otato c op, the wheat crop, the pork, &c. Nor will it create a home market alone. By care it may be exported with such facility that the world will receive it as a part of its diet. It will, in this respect, follow the history of grains and edible rool-s, and from a local and limited use, the apple and the pear will become articles of universal demand. The reasons of such an opinion are few and simple. It is a fruit always palatable, and as such, will be welcome to mankind, whatever their tastes, if it can be brought within their reach. The Western Stales will, before many years, be forested with orchards. The fruit bears exportation kindly. Thri.'^ there will be a supply; a possibility ot distributing it by com- merce, to meet the taste already existing. — These views may seem fanciful — may prove so; but they are analogical. Nor, if I inherit my three-score years and ten, do I expect to die until the apple crop of the United States shall surpass the potato crjp in value, both for man and beast. It has the double quality of palsiia- bleness, raw or cooked — it is a pcrma,nent crop, not requiring annual planting, and it produces more bushels to the acre than corn, wheat, or, on an average, than potatoes. The calcula- tions may be made, allowing an ;rverage of fif- teen bushels to a tree. The same reasoning is true of the pear— it and the apple are to hold a place yet as universal eaiabWs— a fruit-grain not known in their past history. If notanoiher tree should be set in this county, (Marion coun- ty,) in ten years the annual crop of apples will be 200,000 bushels. But Wayne county has double our number of trees— suppose, however, the 90 counties of Indiana to have only 2.3 trees to a quarter section of land, i e., to each 160 acres, the crop of 15 bushels to a tree, woLiid be nearly two millions. The past year has greatly increased the cul- tivation of small fruits in the State. Strawber- ries are found in almost every garden, and of -select sorts. None among them all is more popular, or more deservedly so, than Hovey’s Seedling. We have a native white slrawberrv removed from our meadows to our gardens, which produces Iruit of superior fragrance and flavor. The crop is not large, but continues gradually ripening for many weeks. The blackberiy is introduced to the garden among us. The fruit sells at our market for three to five cents — profit is not therefore the motive lor cultivating- it, but improvement. I havm a white variety. Assorted gooseberries and the new raspberries, Franconia and Fastolff, are finding their way into our gardens. The Ant- werps we have long had in abundance. It next spring I can produce riiubarb weighing two pounds to the stalk, shall I have surpassed you? I have a seedling which last year* with- out good cultivation, p'roduced petioles weigh- ing from eighteen to twenty ounces. My wrist is not very delicate, and yet it is much smaller in girth than they were. In no department is there more decided ad- vance among our citizens than in floriculture. In all our rising towns, yards and gardens are to be found choicely stocked. All hardy bulbs are now sought after. Ornamental shrubs are taken Irom our forests or imported from abroad in great variety. Altheas, rose acacia, jessa- mine, calycanthus, snowberry, sumach, syrin- gas, spicewood, sheperdia, dogwood, redwood, and other hardy shrubs abound. The rose is an especial favorite. The Bengal, Tea and Noisettes, bear our winters in the open garden w-ith but slight protection. The Bourbon and Remontantes will, however, drive out old and ordinary varieties. The gardens of this town would afford about sixty varieties of roses, which would be reckoned first rate in Boston or Philadelphia. While New England suffered under a season of drought, on this side of the mountains the season was uncommonly fine — scarcely a week elapsed without copious showers, and gardens remained moist the wdiole season. Fruits ri- pened from two to three weeks earlier than usual. In consequence of this, winter fruits are rapidly decaying. To-day is Christmas — the weather is spring-like — no snow — the ther- mometer this morning 40®. Mv Noisettes re- tain their terminal leaves green; and in the southward-looking dells of the woods grasses and herbs are yet of a vivid green. Birds are still here — three this morning were singing on the trees in my yard. There are some curious far-ts in the eariv history of horticulture in this region, which I meant to have included in this communication, but insensibly I have, I fear, alread}'' prolonged it beyond vour convenience. H. W. Beccu!-:r. Indianapolis, Dcc,2jlh, 1844. Swiiiey, or Disease or Strain of Slioulder. From the American Agricullurist. This is an affection not uncommon, but yet little vnderstood. If of recent occurr-ence it will be seen that the shoulder is swelled ; if of long standing, that the shoulder is dnivinis'icd in size,{\\e muscles having shinnk away. The shoulder is frequently shrunk w.hen there is no disease in it. This shrinking arises from .dis- use of the muscles. To ret iin its full volume a muscle must have constant aciion. Now, disuse of the muscles of the .-shoulder may arise from two causes: 1st, lameness of the iooi or leg; 2nd, lameness of the shoulde.r. If it arise from the foot no treatment is necessary for the shoulder. It may be easily known if it pro- ceeds from the foot. In such case the horse, when he moves, lifts h\s foot clear from the ground ; and when he points his foot forward he places it flaton the ground. If the injury be in the shoulder, when he moves he drags the toe of the foot along the ground, seemingly "unable to lilt it clear; when he points his foot out, bis /we only rests on the ground, not th ' sole of the foot. If the injury is in the shoulder the horse reluctant- ly turns his head towards the opposite shoulder, as thi.s strains the muscles ; but he will willingly turn his head toward the lame shoulder, as this relaxes the muscles. The common causes of shrinking or swiney of the shoulder, when it arises from the foot or injury to the leg below the shoulder, are all the diseases of the foot and leg, which continue long enough to occasion such a disease of the muscles of the shoulder as to occasion their shrinking. Such diseases are foot founder, contraction of the foot, strain ol the navicular joint, ring-bone, pumiced foot, sand crack, quit- tor, gravel, any separation of the foot, in short, any of the various diseases ol the loot which in- duce the horse to favor it, and thus use as little as possible the whole leg and .shoulder. 'J’he shrinking of the shoulder, n-licrc ir arises THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. J67 I^IETEOROLOGICAL JOURNAL FOR THE YEAR 1845, KEPT AT ATHENS, GA., BY PROFESSOPi. McCAY, OF THE UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA Latitude, 58' A. : Longitude, ok. 34to. W. ; Elevation, about 8‘iOfeet, JULY. AUGUST. o 3 -A H 0 51 E 1 THERMO ICLEARXESe IGOURSE & a BAR 0 M E - THSH, .0 - CLEa LRKKSSjCOVRSB & 7j C BAR 0 M E - pMERMO- CLEARNESS ICOVRSR > I ioF SKY p’i .^T RENGTH > > (OP SKY P MiSTRF 1 i. > R . OP SKY P’m ST > < SQ TER. 1 MS 8 TER. 5 10 TO n. loF WIND.^ 5 -- aj ! ^ E R ME i E K» 1 10 TO 0. ?OF WIND.' \ 5 < 71 T I JO ro 0. OP WIND.* 3 S Sun- 1 j3 o^clklSun 3 o’A 3 o’clA Sun- |3 o’t Inch- § Sun >3 o'etk Sun - J 0^1 Sun . I ocl'k iSun I o'k Jnch- 5 Sun- ]3 o'cl/t Sun- 3 o’k Sun- 3 o’etk Sun- 3 o’k Inch p rise. 1 P M. 1 1 rise P. M 1 nse P. M rise P. M 1 es. p rise. . M. rise. P. 51 j rise P. M. nse P, M es. rise. ' P. M. rise. P. M. rise. P. 51. rise . P. ea. 1 29-30 29-33 1 59 82 1 9 1 w. 3 1 29 •38; 29 -45 60 33 j 10 6 0 w. 3 1 29.33 29-32 74 i 85 3 0 0 N. 2 2 • 31 •■33 63 83 10 7’ In. 1 sw 3 2 • 46; ■ 44 71 32 i 0 2 0 SE. 2 2 •25 •23 74 90 1 3 w. 2 w. 2 3 • 29 •39 /D 87 7 2 }s^ 1 nw5 0 •03 3 •46 • 44 67 82 ; 0 0 SE. 5 3 •30 • 23 73 90 5 6 w. 1 w. 1 4 •25 ■23 70 83 9 0 'T. 1 w, 1 4 •45; ■ 45 67 80 i 0 ' 1 nw2 ne.5 4 •29 .•32 76 90 3 5 3V, '2 3w4 5 •37 •45 / 0 82 2 6 *NR 1 E. 2 0 •60 5 •40! • 45 67 32 1 6 9 ne 2 E, 2 5 •34 •32 76 91 3 g sw 2 sw2 6 • 52 •5-.^ 74 33 1 4 E» 1 s. 2 6 •331 •40 62 1 80 10 Nwl 0 0-20 6 •35 • 36 70 87 6 10 NS 1 NE 2 7 •54 75 92 6 5 0 sw 3 7 •39i .39 71 83 10 1 0 ne.3 7 •36 • 37 65 90 8 8 0 NWl 8j ■49 • 42 78 95 4 3 3. 1 w. 3 •01 8 .39| • 42 70 87 10 0 0 ! 8 .37 .34 75 90 9 5 w. 1 w. 2 9 • 37 •34 io 94 5 NB 1 sw 4 9- .43. •40 72 ^7 1 sw2 sw 1 0-03 9 ■ 34 .35 76 87 4 3 0 w. 3 10 •34 •35 74 90 5 4 0 s. 4 |l ■02 10 .3ll .33 70 83 9 7 w 1 w. 4 10 •42 • 41 68 S3 8 6 £. 2 w. I 11 •36 •33 74 92 0 1 .ne 1 ME. 2 11 • 26, •50 66 So 7 7 w 2 w. 2 11 .44 .44 66 85 8 6 NE 2 NB 2 12 •29 •34 72 36 7 1 N". 1 SE. 3 (0 •13 12 • 30 •33 63 90 3 w 1 w. 4 I 12 .43 .49 63 85 10 5 NE 1 NE 4 13 •28 • 25 74 34 0 0 sw 1 3. 3 0 •70 13 .39: •42 70 92 6 2 0 w. 4 13 • 50 .43 66 84 2 6 NE F kw3 14 •30 •26 76 32 0 6 0 w. 3 0 12; 14 • 351 •33 70 94 5 4 0 nw3 14 •34 • 27 72 82 0 9 SW 3 w. 5 0-04 15 ■23 • 32 73 83 b 1 w. 2 sw 4 0 32^ 15 •34! • 36 70 91 6 4 0 nw4 1 15 •29 .34 55 80 10 10 N. 1 NWl 16; •30 .34 74 So 5 3 3VV 2 w. 4 1 16 • 38 • 33 75 86 5 4 : 0 kw2 16 •42 .43 64 85 5 4 N. 1 E. 3 •39 • 41 74 90 9 7 w. 2 w. 2 0 12 I7i .37 • 40 70 84 8 5 w. Ij ne.3 ; 17 •45 .49 62 85 3 3 E. 1 E. 3 18 •42 •52 72 87 3 4 0 w. 4 18 .34 > • 31 70 93 10 7 Nwll w. 4 19 ■44 • 42 65 87 1 1 0 sw 2 0-01 19; ■42 • 47 73 89 8 9 \v. 1 w. 5 19 • 27 •30 71 92 8 5 1 0 w. 3] 1 19 •40 ■ 35 65 S5 1 6 N. 1 w. 2 20! •39 • 41 71 93 10 10 E. 1 w. 2 20 • 231 • 28 77 89 3 . 3 PfE 1 o' 0-14' 20 •33 .37 64 90 5 0 0 sw4 21i •37 .35 76 94 5 3 N-W i w. 2 1 21 • 27 • 25 74 39 4 5 -N-E 1 3W 1| 21 • 12 • 10 71 77 0 1 NWI nw2 0-23 22] •20 .30 77 ys 7 9 0 w. 1 22 .24 1 •26 70 89 3 5 \ 0 3W 1 22 •28 ■ 30 58 71 6 8 Ei 2 E. 2 23! • 24 • 25 74 96 s 9 0 nw5 23 .31 •32 71 33 9 • 1 0 RE.lj ' 23 •35 • 36 47 73 10 10 E. 1 0 24] • 25' • 31 62 89 9 9 N. 2 w. 3 i 24, .42 .43j 70 92 1 6 : 8 1 NE 2! NE.li 0-03^ 24 •36 • 42 o4 74 5 9 N. 1 w. 1 •30 • 27 91 4 1 1 S’, 2 lyW2' 25 • 41 •43 73 90 1 3 : 1 ! 0 N. 1 0-12' 25 ■43 •40 46 71 10 10 S« 1 w. 1 26 •25 • 13] 74 89 0 2 ' 0 3w6 ! 26 • 40 .33 72 35 5 ; 2 ! 0! 3W 2I0- 16! ■26! •37 • 35 47 77 10 10 0 w. 1 27| • 16 •17: 74 89 3 6 ! SW 1 w. 5} ! 27 • 30 .33 74 78 0 1 O' sw 3| 0-04 27! ■40 .37 50 78 10 10 0 0 28! •24l • 27 64 89 9 9 N. 1 w. 1 2s: .33 .38» 74 86 8 6 1 NS 1 0 28 • 45 • 51 48 81 10 8 N. 1 0 29j • 24 • 20 64 90 6 2 N". 1 sw 1 29 • 40 •42 71 76 1 0 1 E. 2 e.4 0-02, 29 •48 •39 63 31 7 3 E. 1 sw2 30 • i2j • 09! 77 85 0 i 5 sw 2 w. 5 30} .35 •35' 71 82 0 1 7 ! seA 0! - j 30 •33 •26 63 74 0 0 S* 1 sw 1 0-30 •24! ■ 30 / t) 83 10 1 10 w. 2 w. 2 31| .34 •33! \ 70 87 9 2 0 w. 2j 629.321 29-33! 73 89 average. ITot’i raifl 3- 60 1 29-35 29 •37| 70 87 average. rot’i rain 0-741 1 29-361 29- 30! 64 33 1 average. Tot’; rain 0-53 SEPTEMBER, - Average for the Year. — Barometer, at sunrise, 29-38; 3 o’clock, p. m. 2r'-37 — Thermometer, sunrise, 57; 3 p. m. 75 — Total Rain, inches, 12-85. * NoTe. — Course and strength of wind, from 10 to u— 0 being least and 10 the strongest. In clearness of sky, 0 represents most cloudy, and 10 perfect clearness. from an injury in the shoulder ilseil, has but one ordinary cause, viz: a strain of the shoulder. When there is s rain of the shoulder it is known at once. Within a lew hours alter its occur- lence the shoulder is swelled, perhaps in its whole length, but generally at the lower end. The strain lies almost always in muscles which attach the shoulder-blade to the body; yet the sw'elling is on the outside; but this arises from sympathy. When the horse is observed to be lame, and it cannot at once be determined where the lame- ness is, let him be walked, and it he drag hu ffle, itis in the shoulder. Let the shoulder be examined in front; if the affection be of long standing, the shoulder will be seen to be less than the other. If on feeling it, it be found to be free of heat, there will be no lever. The disease is then chronic. If, however, the shoulder be enlarged, it w'ill be found, on feeling, to be hot — the injury is then recent and inliamatatory. Where the disease is in the shoulder and is chronic, it has gone through the inflammatory stage, and is of some considerable standing. The chronic state is rarely cured. It is not un- like rheumatism. For the chronic state lYis'cest remedy is active blistering. This will rouse the vessels to activity. It ma}' be necessary to blister repeatedly, and exercise should accom- pany the blistering, with good grooming and general care. Let the exercise commence as soon as the blister begins to diminish its dis- charge. This treatment continued judiciously and energetically lor some time may cure chro- nic disease of the shoulder. When the strain is recent and inflammation exists, the horse should be bled from the neck and from the plate vein on the inside of the leg, as near the body as possible. R. st, cooling physic, both purga- tive and sedentary, should be given — rio blistering should be allowed. Embrocations ot a cooling nature should be applied. No stiinula,nts should be applied externally, or given. They but add to the inflammation. When the inflammation is subdued and the shoulder has lallen back to its natural size, the horse needs nothing but rest with gentle exercise. Let him be turned out, if in the summer, to grass; in the winter, into a small yard in good weather, and a stable at night in bad weather. It will take him some time to get over the effects and be fit for work again. When the shouHer is shrunk or sw’ineyed from lameness in the foot or leg, below the shouldre, no attention should be paid to the shoulder. When both feet or legs are diseased so that the horse seeks to relieve each alterna'e- ly from pressure, both shoulders will be swiney- ed ; they will be both shrunk, and the breast in front will be diminished and fall in. Treat- ment in these cases is to be addressed to the place of disease. It in the feet, cure them ; if in the legs, cure them. Some diseases in the feet cannot be cured, and, of course, it there be swiney from such cause it cannot be removed. When the feet and legs are cured, and the horse recovers thereby his wonted action, the mus- cles of the shoulder will by exercise, recov- er their former size, and the swiney be gone. Among the ignorant there is a variety of re- medies for the swiney, as pegging (that is thrust- ing a knile in the shoulder and blowing in stim- ulating powders,) swimming, setons, &c. A recent writer in the Southern Cultivator says, “ introduce the small blade of a common pock- et knife (ihe point of which must be sharp,) in- to the thinnest part ot the shoulder, which will be near the upper margin of the shoulder-blade, holding the knile as you would a pen when wri- ting, and scratch up the membrane that covers the bone for a space the size of a silver dollar; the knife may be then withdrawn. The knife may then be introduced in one or two places below the first, and used in the same way, and the operation is over.” N^ow, if the disease be in the shoulder, this method cau only cure by rousing the vessels to action. Blistering will do this better, and is more humane and less dan- gerous. Wounded membranes frequently pro- duce fatal inflammation. Blistering is never dangerous in chronic aflections, and therefore is preferable on that score, and by general action does lar better. It is done within two days. Scraping tbs membrane cannot be through its operation short of weeks. A. Stevens. Buffalo, January, 1845. Education.— -Tne following gives the state of education in the United States, in 1840. It shows the number of white persons in each State above the age of twenty-one, who can neither read nor write ; No. 1, Connecticut- — 1 in 311. No. 2. New Hampshire-—! in 159. No. 3. Massachusetts-— 1 in 91. No. 4. Maine — 1 in 72, No. 5. Vermont — 1 in 63. No. 6. Michigan-—! in 44. No. 7. New York and New Jersey—-! in 36, No. 8. Pennsylvania—! in 32. No. 9. Ohio-—! in 18, No. 10. Iowa — 1 in 17. No. 11, Louisiana — 1 in 16, No. 1“3. District of Columbia— 1 in 15. No. 13. Maryland and Wisconsin-—! in 13, No. 14. Indiana and Mississippi — 1 in 10. No. 15. Florida-—! in 8, No. 16. Illinois, Arkansas and Missouri-— 1 in 7, No. 17. Delaware, Virginia, South Carolina, Alabama and Kentucky — 1 in 6. No. 18. Georgia — 1 in 5. No. 19. North Carolina and Tennessee— 1 in 4. 168 the southern CULTIVATOR. ®1)C Sout!)£vn ^ulttuatcrr. AUGUSTA, GA. VOL. HI., i^O. 1 l...W©VJEitIKER, 1845. Oiir Fourth Volume. The publishers avail themselves of the pre- sent number to announce to the Patrons and Friends of the “ Southern Cultivator,” that they will in a few days issue a Prospectus lor the Fourth Volume, which will be extensively circulated, and they can but indulge the hope that every friend of the work will make some effort to extend its circulation. The Peach and Apple Trade. j The leader will notice two articles in this num- ber of the Cultivator, which will perhaps oc- casion some wonder — we allude to the articles on the peach and apple trade. In addition to the information contained in Mr. Peddeh’s article, we have learnt that from the orchard of the Reybolds there were sold, up to 29th August, 63,234 baskets of peaches ; and up to 8th September, the number had reached to 75,000. The basket contains about half a bushel . and at the first of the season sells for something like three dollars; when the crop is fully ripe, the price falls to about 75 cents. The orchards of the Reybolds are said to contain 1080 acres, and 117,720 trees. Ridgeway’s orchard in the same neighborhood Isa very productive one. It comprisesonly about 200 acres. In 1939, from 170 acres there were gathered as much as 18,000 bushels of ripe fruit; and about 25 acres had not come into full bearing. The TVitune estimates the whole number of baskets of peaches sold in the city of New York last summer, during the 40 days of the peach sea- son, at 12,000 baskets per day, making 480,000 baskets in all; which, at the average price, would make about three-fourths of a million of dollars paid by the people of New York for peaches in a single year. Mr. Downing may say with perfect safety, as he does in the preface to his “ Fruits and Fruit Trees of America,” that there are more peaches offered for sale in the markets of New York annually, than are raised in all Prance. And such peaches — so beautiful and so luscious; The best orange is hardly superior to some of the best sorts of Jersey Peaches. We have neglected the peach, as we have nearly every thing else but cotton, in the South, until our best sorts have be- come so poor, as to be a little worse even than Jeremiah’s figs: — for though, according to Peter Pindar’s account of these said figs, the bad were not fit for pigs, yet the good were very good. Peter couldn’t say as much for our Southern peaches, if he had ever tasted some of the best Jersey varieties, such as the Grosse Mignonne, Rid Cheek Malacoton, Early Admirable, or Early Crawford. The business in New Orleans last summer, shows how very inferior our peaches have been allowed to become, through sheer neglect; for there is no tree that repays so gene- rously the care bestowed upon it. Even in that city the sales were only about 1,100 bbls. and 1000 boxes of peaches, nectarines, pears and quinces, amounting to about $4,200. This is mainly attributable, Mr. Rurr says, to the bad quality of the fruit ; but the demand, he is confi- dent, will keep pace with the production of good fruit. Why can’t the people along the lines of Rail- road leading to Charleston, Columbia, Savannah, Augusta, Macon and Montgomery, use some of fheirpoor sandy land that is good for nothing else, in raising good peaches for the supply of the mar- kets of those cities.?- They have every thing to encourage them, as the facts we have stated clearly show. But unless they get the improved sorts, and then lake care to cultivate them pro- perly, they had better let it alone. The other article is about the Apple Trade. Though it relates chiefly to the state of Horticul- ture in Indiana, we have copied the whole of it, because, coming from the pen of the Rev. Mr. Beecher, Editor of the Indiana Farmer, it is, Of necessity, very interesting. But our principal object is, to introduce to our readers the specula- tions of Mr. B., on the figure the apple is destined to make hereafter in the world, both as an article of food and of commerce. Do you think the es- timate of Mr. B.,an extravagant one? Remem- ber there is a strong array of facts against you, some of which we will mention. The crop in the West is a short one this year, owing to late spring frosts. To supply the deficiences, there had been shipped, up to the first of October, from Oswego alone, 5000 barrels of apples for Ohio and Michi- gan. Prom other lake ports we have not heard. Mr. Downing says, nearly a quarter of a million of fruit trees have been planted in one year, in one of the newest Western States. You see these people believe in Mr. Beecher. Mr. Pell, of VVestchester, New York, has an apple orcha'd of twenty thousand trees. He sells his apples in New York at six dollars per barrel. The best, however, he sends to Eng'and, where they com- mand twenty-one dollars per barrel. The nobility, at;d the wealthy people, bought them last year at a guinea a dozen, or about 45 cents a piece. Last year he sold 9000 barrels. This year he has al- ready sold between 3000 and 4000 barrels. Scotch physicians prescribe American apples for dyspepsia. It is no unusual thing for an Enolish lady to have on her table at a party, fruit whi< h cost from j£400 to £500. A dinner was given by an English nobleman some years ago, for which the fruit alone cost £6000. Invariably, where English and American apples are exposed for sale together in the London fruit shops, the American are preferred at double the price of the English. With such a demand for fruit, both at home and abroad — with the means of supplying it afforded by American soil and climate and induscry and energy and love of gain, Mr. Beecher can’t be far wrong in his anticipations. What is all this to us of the South ? — you ask. Is it not something to know that cotton and rice and sugar are not the only things whereby the pocket may be relieved from collapse — that riches may come of raising even peaches and apples? Moreover, if for want of direct and regular steam- ships between Savannah and Charleston and Europe, we may not furnish apples for English noblemen to eat, at 45 cents a piece, ought we not at least, to supply our own Southern cities, in- stead of alio wing them to depend on supplies from abroad? The world may be defied to show better apples than the mountain region of the Southern States produces, with projier care. Some say the apple with which Eve was tempted grew here. About that we say nothing, because we don’t know how it was. But we do know that the peo- ple of our mountain region love money just about as much as most other people; that they have about as much need of it; and that their apples will bring money about as surely as any thing they raise for market. It will be their own fault, if in a few years, a Yankee apple shall be seen in any of our Southern cities. Lime. We are not quite sure that Mr. Brown intended his letter for publication. Not seeing how we could so well forward his ends as by publishing it, we have, Jackson-like, taken the responsibility of doing so. His purposes are now known to our planters, as well as to those who have the man- agement of cur railroads. We wish him all the success he can desire ; and beg leave to add, that on the subject of transporting lime on railroads, to be used for agricultural pui poses, we have never had but one opinion ; anJ that is, that it ought to be transported at the very lowest possi- ble rates. We are pretty sure there will be scarcely any demand for it at the prices stated in Mr. B’s postscript. And even at such rales as it might be afforded at, were the freight reduced, it will take a great deal ot persuasion to bring it into use. But we don’t despair. As the waters wear the stones, so will the frequent repetiiion of our advice, and the example of others, we hope, wear away in time, the prejudice that exists against every thing that proposes to change the old sys- tem of husbandry in the South. Sugar Cane. The fact stated by “ QuUque” in this number of the Cultivator, if thc'e be no mistake about it, is a very curious one. We can find nothing in the writings of vegetable physiologists, or in the recorded experience of practical gardeners, to throw any light on the subject. Lindley, Knight, Herbert, indeed every one, refers to the simple process of dusting the stigma of one plant with the pollen of another, as the only way in whicheither cross breeds or hybrids a. e produced : and that the act of fertilization consists in the emission, by the pollen, of certain tubes of mi- croscopical tenuity, which pass dawn the style^ and eventually reach the young seed, with which they come in contact ; and, unless this contact takes place, fertilization misses. Now the sugar cane does not blossam and bear seed, we believe, anywhere but in tropical cli- mates. It is quite certain, therefore, that none of the established piinciples, of either muling or crossing, can be applied to explain the production of the new variety of cane mentioned by our cor- respondent. The case is, however, not without parallel. Something of the same kind came un- der our own observation a few years ago, occur- ring in our own grounds. The sweet potato does not bear seed, and but seldom produces even blos- soms in temperate climates. On one occasion, we had the varieties known as the yam, and the Red Bermuda, growing in contiguous rows. In gathering the crop, we found one of the vams THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 169 true to its kind in all respects, except a stripe from end to end of about one-fwurth its circumference, which was beyond all question of the Red Ber- muda. The yams had blossomed in previous years, but the Bermuda never had with us. How did this mixture of the two kinds occur 1 The Maine Farmer. The editor of the Maine Farmer, in his paper of October 9th, copies from the Culpivatoh of September, our commentaries on his articles therein inserted, and replies as follows : In relation to the neglect of the South in the disbursement of the public money, Dr. Holmes answers — (1.) Alas, friend Camak, the answer is too ob- vious. We are, both of us, precluded by the neu tral stand which agricultural papers ought to take, from going into these subjects in detail, be- cause it would of necessity expose the “ rotten- ness in Denmark" — the utter and shameless rot- ten-heartedness of the political leaders of each and every party. It would carry us into the very depths of the slimy and miry slough of par- ty tactics, and party discipline. We may not do this: but we may say, or shall at any rate say, that the day of pure* political principle and ac- tion has gone by. Men are not now as in the days 01 Washington, and Henry, and Franklin, and Sherman, chosen to high offices because they loved their country and their whole coun- try; but because they will subserve some selfish purposes of this or that clique. The practice of politics has become a game, and he is moat suc- cessful who is most skillful in the shuffle, cut and deal of the political cards. A government ought to distribute its favors and requirements equally — ^justly and without partiality all over this terri- tory, The meanest and most humble spot should not be neglected — the poorest citizen should be cherished and protected. That it is not so, we grieve to say is the case, and we see not ho w either of us can help it, any further than our individual influence and exertions for truth and justice can go. If mere complaining were the order of the day, every section of the Union could find veritable cases enough for stock to work upon.” About the six per cent, and the one mill per cent. Treasury notes: (2 ) “ This is new to us, and we really do not see what right those who did the deed had so to do. It is customary for governments, both State and national, to issue scrip at diflerent times, bearing different rates of interest ; but that scrip should be issued with reference to any particular section of the Union is new doctrine.” To the last paragraph of our article, he re- sponds thus : (3.) “ If we felt aggrieved, as our friend Ca- mak appears to be, we should probably utter the tallest thunder we could muster. At the same time we should think it a duty to “be patient, be advised.” We should endeavor, while we la- bored hard to remove any injustice which bore heavily upon our own particular section, to let reason take a calm survey of the whole ground, from “Maine to Georgia,” and strive to so ba- lance matters that the prosperity of all should be promoted, and the rights of none infringed. We live together, as a nation, bound by a chain of mutual concessions. The union depends upon such bonds, and while each section, from natural locality, must vary more or less in its interests, they should cheerfully yield a little, each to each, and by thus yielding, become strong in their mutual bonds. Leaving subjects of a more pub- lic political character, permit us, friend Camak, to both encourage and sympathize with you in your efforts to rouse up the good people of the South to a sense of their own interest, and to urge upon them the duty and necessity of well directed and w dl concerted action, in agricultu- ral, as well as other reforms. We have had some experience for the last fifteen years in this busi- ness; for in our own section, as well as yours, there is much to reprove and to censure. Idle- ness is the besetting sin of man the world over, and all the concomitant evils of apathy and su- piuenees bring with them the results of comfort- less want wherever they prevail, whether it be North or South, East or West. On the contrary, industry, frugality and perseverance, will finally surmount both national and political obstacles — clothe the old fields with verdure, and make the wilderness blossom like a rose. While we find ourselves laboring under many difficulties, and sometimes ready to become sick and faint amia the battle with prejudice, obsdnacy and ignor- ance, we would, nevertheless, bid you God speed in your own endeavors to bring back the flour- ishing and palmy days of the South, and hope, ere you die, you will see your labors crowned with a success far beyond your most sanguine hopes; and not only your own, but evcrv ^tate in the Union blessed with prosperity and filled with a virtuous, contented and happy people.” Hill-Side Ditching. Hard as it is to charigc old habits, and much as our people may dislike to abandon their slovenly and wasteful processes of cultivating their soil, they have it to do. There is no mistake about it — they have either to mend their ways, or starve, or go to Texas. They must, as one of the first steps towards amendment, stir the sub-soil. We hope we have convinced them of that. Then they must go t^ditching their hill-sides, to pre- vent any more of the cream of their soil going to enrich the bottom of the Atlantic, where it is not needed just now. Q,uite enough has been already sent off, by our bad management, on that mission. If you want encouragement in this reform, look at the example set you, by Mr. Cunningham, of Greenesboro’, Mr. Hardwick, of Hancock coun- ty, Capt. Eggleston, of Mississippi, and Mr. Calhoun, of South Carolina. We have told you, in the pages of the Cultivator, something o^ what all these gentlemen have done, or are doing^ with hill-side ditches, except Capt. Eggleston. Mr. Solon Robinson, in the last number of the | Albany Cultivator, enables us to add to the others, an account of Capt. E’s. practice: “His place is all hilly, thin, oak land, very | light soil, that melts away in water not quite so 1 easy as salt or sugar; and yet he has scarcely a j gully upon the whole farm ; but he has more than 20 miles of hill-side ditches, which are so con- structed, that they take up all the surface water, before it passes far enough over the ground to form gullies. While riding over the plantation, I ' found one of the overseers engaged, with a large i force of hands, laying oft’ and making ditches upon some new ground, it being a rule never to putin a second crop until the land is ditched. * '■* The rows have to conform to the ditches, how- ever crooked; and the manner of plowing, is to lay off the rows in the first instance, the middles being often left unbroken, until after the corn is planted, and perhaps up. Capt. E’s. plan is, to plow deep directly under the corn, and plow shal- low while tending the growing crop His motto is to plow deep for all crops. He assures us that, since he has adopted the level system of ditching and plowing, that in addition to the advantage to the land, that his crops are better and the soil im- proving instead of deteriorating.” In the Southern States, some persons, as w^e have noticed in our travels, have tried the plan of horizontal plowing, omitting altogether the hill- side ditches. This is a ruinous error. Those who have tried it, have found it so ; indeed, in the nature of things, it cannot be otherwise. It is far better to continue the old system of plowing straight up and down hill, bad as that is. Let hill-side ditches be made first ; then, and not till that is done, should any one attempt to plow his ground horizontally, unless he wants to send his soil on the bootless mission hereinbefore men- tioned. The way to get credit is to be punctual; the way to preserve it is not to use it much ; settle often— have short accounts. The North-West. Michigan, Wisconsin, Iowa, and the whole re- gion thereabouts, would seem to be a very para- dise for grain-growers. The extreme fertility of the soil, theenormous cropsit produces, thesma.l outlay of labor necessary to make and gather a crop — the high price it commands when taken to market, the salubrity of the climate, every thing seems to conspire to make the Northwest a most desirable region to those who can endure its cold. The Racine Advertiser says : “Two farmers from Jamesville, in Rock coun- ty, whose farms adjoin, last fall conjointly had 200 acres of prairie broken and sown in wheat — the work being performed by two young men, with ten yokes of oxen, and two boy^ to drive a few weeks. These 200 acres of wheat have re- cently been cut by means of a machine, occupy- ing only 12i days, with an extra expense of fifty cents an acre for binding and stacking. The wheat turned out an aggregate of 5000 bushels, worth S2.500, or an average ot 25 bushels to the acre. On Friday the owner came to Racine with two wagons, loaded with an aggregate of 205 bushels of wheat, which he sold to Mr. Richmond at 62i cents the bushel.” Then we have an account of the soil of this re- gion by Mr. Whitney, who has lately gone over it, from Lake Michigan to the great bend of the Missouri. He, it wall be remembered, has been looking out for the route of his great Railroad to Oregon. Hear what he says of the country : [From Mr. Whitney’s teller in the Nat. Intelligencer.l . “ Before leaving Pra’rie du Chien I fixed upon a route I would like to pass to the Missouri, and with compass in hand made it w'^thin five miles of the point started for. By Burr’s map of Wis- consin, embracing Iowa &c. (which I found more correct than any I have seen,) w'e crossed Turkey river at Fort Atkinson, north latitude 43° 15'; thence we crossed the different jjranches of the Wabisipinica and the Cedars in about the same latitude to Cl -ar Lake, in west longitude 93° 25'; thence northwesterly until wm came to a branch of the 3f. Peter’s, running northeasterly — and I will here remark that we did not find the Cedar’s or St. Peter’s branch to correspond with Burr’s or any map I have seen ; thence due west to the Des Moines, in latitude 43^ 20', and west longimde 95®, which streams we crossed bv fell- ing trees for a bridge ; thence due west to a num- ber of small beautiful lakes forming the head-wa- ters of the Little Sioux, and emptying into the Missouri; thence across Floyd’s river ; thence due west across the branches of the Calumet and the Calumet; thence to the Whitestone or Ver- milion, then .lacques river, and then to the great, the grand Missouri, fifteen m'les below the great bend ; making a distance from the Mississippi of more than five hundred luilcs, over the finest country upon the globe, capable of sustaining more than three times the population of the same space in any other part of the world : no sw’amps, no marshes, no flooding of rivers, except in the vicinity of the Wabisipinica, and then only for a small distance, and undoubtedly the mostheal'hy country in the world. I have never found the atmosphere so pure; the surface gently rolling to an almost level ; alwmys, however, enough undu- lating to let all the water off. “While on this subject I will remark that none of the rivers we-t of the great takes are natural rivers, but have formed themselves and beds by the constant wash of this vast and almost level plain. The soil of this vast wilde ness is as rich as It can be — none richer in the whole distance. I did not see half an acre of useless or bad land ; all covered with the finest ot gmsses, and,, when cured, good hay. The farmer will want but the plov/, ihe s“ed, the scythe, and sickle. Ar far as the Cedars (ninety miles west of the Missis- sippi) are considerable tracts of good timber, but none beyond to the Missouii, and then very little, till nearly down to Fort Leavenworth, and then only about three miles wide, and sometimes none on the river; but coals are abu idant, and the growth of timber so natural that, without the fires, (which now spread over the whole prairies yearly, consuming even.’ thing.) in .fifteen years 170 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. the whole, from river to river, v ould be one dense forest.” [From the Alton Telegraph.] “The qtiantity ol standing corn, which may be seen from Mound Farm, in Jersey county, un- der twenty miles from this place, cannot amount to less thanyfae hundred thousand bushels. Nor is this ail, or the best. Fro u Mr. B. A. David- son’s residence on the bluff, on the road from Al- ton to Edwardsville, and about seven miles from this city, the'e may be seen, without moving from the same spot, by looking only in two directions, fields of standing corn, the piobable yield of which is estimated at one million Jive hundred thousand bushels. Beat this who can !” Extraordinary as is the fertility of the soil in that region, and large as the crops are that grow on it, larger crops are gathered elsewhere from soil made fertile by the hand of the husbandman. The Liverpool Albion states an instance in which a man made at the rate of 80 bushels of wheat to the acre. His land had been prepared for wheat by the previous culture of potatoes and cabbage ; and it had been stirred in the cultivation of the previous crops to the depth of four feet. To come nearer home —we find it stated in the A'^erican Farmer, that Mr. Smeltzer, ofFrede= tick county, Maryland, raised of the “Oregon” wheat, at the rate of over 50 bushels to the acre, the seed sown being n ;t quite one and an half bushels per acre. The same gentleman also raised the “China” wheat, at the rate of 47 bushels per acre — a new kind which ripens earijq and is said not to be in- jured by the fly, mildew or smut. These are the results of careful cultivation and thorough tillage of the soil. In the English ex- ample, the soil was, besides being made rich, loosened by trenching to the depth of FOUR feet. This woiiM seem to be useless labor, if we had not the authority of Tull for the fact, that in pro- perly prepared soil, the roots of wheat have been traced to the depth of two feet. Yankee Enterprise. The farm of Mr. Phinney, of Lexington, Mass., is perhaps one of the most striking instances of what Yankee energy will undertake and accom- plish. It contains about 160 acres, and most cf it originally, was very rocky and rough. Mr. Breck, of the Neto England Farmer, says that accord- ing to an estimate that had been made, every six feet square of thi.s farm contained a ton of stones, leaving out of the calculation the immoveable ones. This will give, he says, more than a thou- sand tons to the acre. Yet they have been re- moved ; and the land that was once thus covered, is now producing luxuriant grass, or is planted with apple and peach tree? — and in their season with potatoes, melons, &c. Just think of that, ye lazy conks of our sunny South, who will plow round stones and stumps, and over logs, day after day, and year after year — just think of removing a thousand tons o‘f stones from an acre before you can plow it at all ; and let shame burn your cheek, because that, with so great natural advantages over Yankeedom — with our generous soil and abundant means to enrich it, wit^ our genial atmosphere and glorious sky — this end of Uncle Yarn’s heritage is allowed to wear such an aspect of dilapidation and misery — to look so much like the very fag end of creation. Mr. Phin'ney is clerk of the county court, and his office is some 8 or 10 miles from his farm ; yet, by early rising, he looks over his farm every morning, goes to his office, discharges its duties, returns, and looks over his cattle by light of lan- tern. There is industry for you — another trait of Yankee character that we want to see imitated in this our blessed land of sunshine and idleness. Here’s another example. The Baltimore Ame- rican says : “ The town of Rome, in Western New York, containing a population of over 5000, has been built up by factories for making paddles and ours from, the ash, thousands of which are shipped by almost every vessel for En-^land, Prance, Germany. Prussia, Sweden, Russia, and throughout all the East. The Junks of the Chi- nese are now all managed by American oars, and the small boats of all Europe and Asia, are now propelled by the enterprise of the people of this one village.” Good Lecturing. The edilorot fho Star of Florida discourses after the following fashion, of the exceeding great folly ot his neighbor.?, in buying what they ought to raise at home. We like these simple truths told in this plain way ; and we hope that paper will continue the hoarhound until there shall not be found in Florida a plan- ter who shall not be ashamed to be caught buy- ing a bushel of corn or a pouftd of bacon — a plow or a wagon— a broom or an axe handle, that is not the production of Southern labor. These Southern States ought to be independent of the world. The people have the means of making themselves so, if they will but use them. — From. the Star of Flotida. A Word to the Farmers. — Corn was sell- ing in the Tallahassee market this morning at 31 J cents per bushel. The average price of the last crop we suppose not to have been over 37i cents. The average price of Cotton of the last croD was perhapsdJ cents. The price of Bacon in the same market is now, and perhaps the average price during the season has been, 10 cents per pound. Yet, notwithstanding the relative price of these articles, there are many thousand tons of Bacon annually brought here from the West- ern States and sold to our farmers at these high prices, and their cotton sold at ruinous prices to pay for it. Can there be any wonder why our people should be embarrassed? But w'ith some of our people there is a worse state of things than this. The farmers of Leon county, as we have remarked, make corn at 374 cents a bushel. In a neighboring county, less than fifty miles from Tallahassee, a large portion of the farmers depend upon the New Orleans market for their supplies of corn, which they receive by the wav oflheChatta- hocchee river at a cost of not less (in general) than onedcllar per bushel. They depend upon their cotton crop, and their tobacco crop, to pay for their bread and meat. Can such a system lead to anything else but hard times and embar- rassment? Again, the Florida farmers have an abun- dant supply ot most excellent timber, lor all mechanical purposes, at their own doors. They have an abundant supply of mechanical skill, if properly encouraged, in their own neighbor- hoods. Yet if a Florida farmer wants a plow, he sends off to the next market and buys one which has been imported from Yankeedom, and pays five dollars, and makes cotton at 3 or 5 cents per pound to pay for it. If he wants an axe handle, scythe sheath, or any article of a similar sort, he pursues a like course. By such a system, hundreds of dollars are annually sent abroad, which might with very little trouble have been kept at home. “But,” says the farmer, “ I want to buy plows and so on, where they can be had at the cheapest lates. If I want an article made at home, I must run after the mechanic, hunt him up, and thf'D perhaps he will ask an exorbitant price. But I deal with Mr, Sharp the mer- chant— he takes my cotton — I trade it out with him — and it is very convenient to get anything 1 want from him,” Yes, theie certainly is a sort ol convenience in getting what one wants without much trou- ble. BuT yet, on the other hand, there is a very great inconvenience in being made to pay through the nose, tor what one doesn’t want. Now, it may sometimes seem to the farmer that he pays less to the merchant for an impor- tant article than the same would have cost him if made at home — when in fact such is not the case. When a farmer buys an article which has been manufactured abroad, he must pay for it in cash, or in some commodity that will com- mand cash, at the place o( manufacture. And as cotton is almost the only article grown at the South which commands cash in a foreign mar- ket, it follows as a matter ol course, that the farmer must continue to grow cotton, even at the most ruinous prices, so long as they pur- chase their principal articles of consumption abroad. But if the farmer procured his manufactures from a neighbor, even at a nominal higher price — yet the money would remain at home, and a large portion oi it would, in the course of the year, find its way back to the farmer’s pocket again. The mechanic must have timber to work up in the different branches ol his trade. And he pays back to the farmer some portion of his price of his plow, for what, otherwfise, would rot in the forests. The mechanic must procure from the farmer, bread for himself — corn and fodder for his horse— shucks, pumpkins and turnips for his cow, and many other articles which the farmer could not send to the North to pay fo' a plow. And it may therefore often be really cheaper for the farmer to pay nominally, a higher price for an article if made at home, than a fewer price for an article of foreign fabric. Deep Plowing. From all parts of the country where sub sol! plowing has been tried, the testimony is uniform in its favor. We do not know of a single excep= tion. Even the political papers are urging its im- portance on their readers. The New York Tri- bune, for example, says ; “As to deep plowing, all science, all practice, all authority recommend it, and yet three-fourths of our farmers persist in skinning their land over from five to eight inches deep, or not half what is required. We saw field after field of corn which will not yield ten bushels to the acre, (and poor stuff at that) which might have been put up to twenty by deep plowing alone. Of course, one year would not exhibit all the benefits of this cul- ture, though even the first year, if a dry one, would show its decided ad\antages, but let land have time to get used to deep plowing, and it will tell you plainly how it relishes that treatment. And the man who plows deep is pretty apt to put something else into the soil as well as iron. He will have muck and peat from his swamp holes and a noble compost heap near his barn. “ We hear farmers complain, and most truly, that they can make nothing by their business — and this while they are paying taxes, keeping up fences, and perhaps paying the mortgage interest, on twice as much land as they can cultivate well, and letting half of it go from year to year, with- out tillage, without fertilizing, and often growing up to bushes and all manner of mischief. Now the w'onder is not that such farmers do not thrive — the marvel is that they manage to exist. Let any manufacturer, or merchant, do his busi- ness after this pattern, and he must fail — there is no help for it. “But must we conclude that bad farming has become inveterate among our people? — that our farmers have resolved, though they know better, to hold twice as much land as thei can till thor- oughly, and torment it till it ruins them. We will not give it up. Every farmer we see admits the evils — says he and his neighbors run over too much land, cultivate too slovenly, are not suffi- ciently wide awake to the march of improvement, THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. and lay out too much main strength on what could be easier and better ^one by the aid of skill and science. All are aware that they must farm better or break, for the car of improvement moves on, and the only choice is to ride on or be run over by it.” Chickasaw Pea. A correspondent of the South Carolinian, writing from Greenville, speaks in very high terms of the Chickasaw Pea as a fertilizer. If this pea, after extensive trial, continues to an- swer the expectations that have been formed of it, we need not, in the Southern States, complain that clover will not succeed with us. We will have in this pea what will answer our purposes j ust as well. We shall he glad to hear more of it Irom those who have triedit; and especially it it be not the same as what is known as the Tory Pea, in Alabama, and some parts of Georgia. The account by the South Carolinian's corres- pondent, is as follows : “ There is, perhaps, no section of country in the upper districts which has improved more in agricultural condition than the ” Old Pendle- ton” neighborhood — the result, vie are told, of an Agricultural Society, composed of intelli- gent and practical farmers. We were struck with the inanifesc improvement in the breeds of cattle and hogs. The Berkshire cross has here told well, for the very simple reason, we pre- sume, that stock is attended to. We have ne- ver seen a finer stock of hogs in travelling through any country. More attention seems to be paid to the Pea culture here than in any sec- tion we have been. We are told that it is the opinion of many good farmers hereabouts, that land can be improved to a high degree by the Pea culture. We have no doubt of the fact, if properlv applied. There is a Pea, the Chicka- saw Pea, which bears most abundantly, and once planted, is almost inexlirpable. We have seen it put into corn ground — after the corn was taken off— pastured by the cattle and hogs all winter— in the spring put in oats, and after the oats was taken off the pea came up in great abundance. Now suppose these were to be let alone, and in lieu of the absurd system of pas turing stubble, the vine and stubble should be turned under in the tall— would not the land be vastly improved? We have no doubt, if the pea were sown on our stubble lands — a peck to the acre — and the crop turned in, while in the bloom — that the efiect produced would be equal to the best clover leys, so much esteemed in Virginia and the North. It is an admitted fact, that leguminous plants exhaust a soil in a very slight degree. The Pea vine contains about 53 per cent, of Potash, a most i uportant ingredient in all soils for the production of grain or cotton. If this should be returned to the soil, in addition to the carbon and nitrogen contained in the vine, it j seems to me that there would be a manifest im- | provemenf. It has been discovered by analysis ; that Cotton wool contains potassa 31.09 per I cent.; lime, 17.05.; magnesia, 3 26; phospho- | ric acid, 12.30 ; sulphuric acid, 1.2'k That the seed contains phosphoric acid, 45.85 ; lime, 29.79; potassa, 19.40; sulphuric acid, 1 16 per cent. While Corn contains potassa, 20 87; phosphoric acid, 18.80; lime, 9.72; magne.‘.ia, 5.76 per cent. The following anal- ysis of straws may not be uninteresting: Wheat Straw. Barley Straw. Oat Slraw. ] Potash i 31 15 ' Soda f 1 15 I I'tme 7 lOi 2| j Magnesia........ I j Alumina 2f 3 2^ 1 Oxide of Iron, ... . 2| J 2-| I Silicdtorliint. . . 81 73k 80 I .Sulphuric Acid. . 1 2" I .!■ ! Phosphoric do ... 5 3 i’ j Chlorine 1 pi i mo 100 too From the foregoing data we learn, that potash is a most important ingredient in cotton and corn, and that the pea vine and cotton seed would be most invaluable manures— how easy would it be to avail ourselves of both. If a planter should sow 20 bushels per acre of cotton seed, upon a luxuriant vinecrop, and putit in wheat, is it not reasonable to suppose that the advan- tage derived would be as great as from a clover ley, and gypsum. We are sure, the elements are nearly the same, and we have no doubt of its effect. It is an admitted fact, we believe, that oats exhaust land more than any other grain crop. The mystery is solved, we ihink, by the analysis, for thereby, oats is found to con- tain 15 per cent, of potassa, while barley straw contains only 'Sh, and wheat J per cent. No doubt the rapid growth of oats, and close pastu- ring aids much in the exhaustion of the soil, and we derive an important lesson from the analy- sis— the want of potassa in the soil— which may be supplied by the pea crop, and the keeping off one’s stock. Grass does not exhaust a soil, for the verv simple reason, that it takes up no pot- ash. Grass contains, carbon 45 percent; hy- drogen 5; oxygen 38; nitrogen U ; and ashes 9 per cent. Every old woman in the country can tell us, that post oak and hickory contain tlie most potash — yet how few farmers know,, that this is the reason, why post oak and hickory lands are the most productive. Let a piece of land of this growth be exhausted and turned out, and it will put up pine, whjch contains less potash, perhaps, than any other tree. For this reason, a pine old field will produce hut a few years, without manure. In all pine old fields, you will find an abundant supply of silica, and if you only will add the potash, you are certain of a good crop. We look forward to a day when the Pea crop will be found a most important anxiliary in the resuscitation of the worn out lands of the Sou' h. Clover cannot be grown here — the climate i® al- together too hot to expect a luxuriant growth to answer for manure. "We see no resource left us but the Pea culture. Paul Pry. ©rigiiial (Eommimications. Slieep and Wool. Mr. Camak: — f am.glad to see that your pa- per is becoming the medium of conveying mat- ters of vital interest to the public mind. Tri- vial experiments in trivial farming has been the dead weight which has overburdened almost every agricLiltural paper, and eventually created a disrelish which has condemned them to fail- ure. Some of your correspondents have come to your aid in .a branch of production, which must, ere long, constitute a source of great re- venue to individuals, and render the South an independent people. If Georgia does not be- come a large wocd-growing State it will be for reasons wholly unassignable. It cannot be for the reason that we have not territory and cli- mate perfectly adapted to it; nor can it be, that it is unprofitable. 1 will not place wool-grow- ing upon the ground of patriotism, for ihat ba- sis is apt to yie.d to the weight ot individual interest. So far as you have expre.ssed the de- sire that we should and ought to become inolc- pendeni of the world to supply oiif wants, every Georgian will concur with you. That we can do so in the main and necessary articles of foe d and raiment, I believe with you, that we can. There seems to be no doubt among men of re- flection, that Georgia mu.'t, ere long, from posi- tion and conlormation, become a mauulactur- ing State; and it is not only the manufacture of cotton, bat almost every branch resulting in an entire supply of such as we need. This end I am certain you wish to forward. As it was intended in this paper to bear te.s- tirnony oniy to the sound doctrine expressed by some of your correspondents in relation to wool-growing, it will be confined to that mat- ter. Coincidence in the opinions of a few men results in forming “public opinion.” I cannot promise any methodical arrangement in this matter, but as an idea arises 1 will put it down in ink, good or bad. Can we or not, raise w’dol ? This has been settled long since. I might say it had been done in every county in the State ; but to do it as a source of actual in- come is the point which is most material to prove. If it is not profitable and cannot be made so, no proof on paper will change our production of cotton. If more money can be made or saved by making cotton than raising wool, no conviction on paper will induce people to turn to wool-growers. But I am under the impression that a portion of our State can, and will be convinced, that wool growing is the only resource of peruianent profit left to us in time to come— I might say at this time. The Che- rokee district is yet too fresh; although the greatest part is fit foj; very little else in agri- culture, still the people wn'll not alter their pro- duction from grain to wool— 1 mean, to take it upas a main and leading production. Al- though no country on the continent is more suitable than some sections of Cherokee, it will not be done. Where anything, cotton, corn or silk, can be produced WMth greater profit than wool, let it be done. Where w'ool meets w’ith such competition it would be abandoned. For this reason, although the climate and soil ot the cotton region of Georgia might be en- tirely suitable, the rivalship of cotton is too powerful. We must then look tor a theatre where wool would be free from such competi- tion. The counties of Hall, Habersham. Ra- bun, Franklin, Clarke and Aladison, either en- tirely or in part, present every inducement to embark in this matter. The best evidence is that which is in reach. To prove anything by conjecture or supposition is useless where mo- ney is concerned.’ To induce men to lake up a new business, I must prove that it is not oiilv possible, but |)rofitable. The members of the Western bar are all in reach, if called on, . ■ prove that it is possible; if not to raise wool, certainly to raise better mutton than in Neiv England. I understand such to be the case in Habersham and Rabun. The possibility is therefore settled. I do not say better wool thau New”- England, but I will say, better than the foreign wools from Smvrna and Buenos Ayres. The wool from Smyrna looses about one-half when washed after it reaches our market. That from Buenos Ayres is always coarse, and it is imported because it is cheap — perhaps the cheapest. I mention these counties of Hall, &c., because we all know them. They are to be- come cur allies in this production. This place would be the market for wool grown in them. The average yield of sheep is better known to the farming people than to me. But we may put it at 3t pounds for sheep well housed and pastured. This, if managed neatly, w’ould be worth 30 cents per pound, or about the cost of the sheep per bead, leaving out the increase from a flock. It is rarely that we find a man who does not admit that wool-growing would be profitable in this section — perhaps not one in a hundred ; and many are anxious to test the matter, and are willing to risk much larger amounts than the Southern people have credit for. But in the historv of the world there is no parallel to the insignificance of the cause which prevents this outlay of capital in Georgia. I might say with truth, that millions of dollars are lost to the State by those worthless dogs which are allowed to wander and depredate, ut- terly useless to their owners. Now is there not a species of madness about us to suffer this an- nual loss, and make no effort to better our con- dition ? I know we cannot get protet^ion from the Legislature ; at least, no law will ever be passed embracing the whole State. No party, no legislature, will have the independence to save us from the fate of Acteon. Neither par- ties nor individuals will hazard their vanity or popularity by introducing a “ dog law.” But if we cannot get a general law, let old Clarke do her duty. If we cannot get Clarke county to do it, by her people openly and freely asking the Legislature to protect us in the attempt, let 172 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. us ol I’iis, ihe Atlieus district, sis^n our nauies, requesting tlie Legislature to pass a law giving us the privilege of excluding these miserable depredators, that “ make night hideous,” from our district. Let us agree upon the provisions of a bill which will insure the success of the ex- periment so tar as it may be impeded by dogs. Clarke county has led lorward nobly and successfully— the first to propose, adopt and urge on the great rail way system in this Stale. The money of her people has been laid down to ef- fect it, and at great personal sacrifice. There is no parallel in monetary affairs to the patience and tn lurance of her people under the adverse circumstances which have impeded her enter- prise. Clarke county stands the noblest exam- ple of the manufacturing interest in the South. Their capital was pressed into it when it was deemei hazardous if not chimerical, and her manufactured produce is now gre iter than in all the Stale beside. Let us take one more step in advance of public opinion— Lt us be fearless of the result. If we cannot induce politicians to do their duly, let us do ours. We have no hope of obtaining a dog law to protect the whole State; let us then protect our little dis- tiict. As lor myself, I am not above the influ- ence or party feeling; I may admit that I might be considered rancorous; but notwithstanding the admission, 1 am vvil.ing to nledge my vote to any man of any party, to forward these ends, regarding the matier as one of the highest in- terest to the people. This county, as well as those immediately north of us, are not adapted to cotton, except in a slight degree, and they become less so every succeeding year. We are, therefore, I might say, driven to make something else, and it is fortunate that we have a resource which promises so well. Separate from the individual profit to the wool-grower, tl e interest and prosperity of this lown and the merit of a good example, will, by success, ex- tend the action of the law to other districts in this county, and to other counties. These few counties can make nothing else on a large scale — and I might say that the population favors the project, because there is not a sufficient in- ducement in the present worn out condition of the lands to employ a large Negro labor; and in this business the poorest man can employ some capital and reap a reward which, under existing circumstances, he cannot do. Any man can own a lew sheep. The very poorest can make something with less trouble than by any other means, if he is proiected from devouring dogs. Let us go to work and counsel with our neigh- bors and settle among ourselves what we can do for the country. If vve cannot induce the whole country, let us reason with a part, and that part our own neighborhood. And in our consultations we may present forcible opinions to each other. It appears to me we would come to the point at once. We do not wish to raise wool to make broadcloth, at least not at this time. We can make such as is suiiable to the ex- existing state of manufactures. They cannot make broadcloth now, and never will unless we justify them in obtaining men and machine- ry, and this they cannot do unless there is a re- g*ular and full supply to retain these requisites in their service. ’ The wool we would make would be such as they want now, and they would manufacture the description of goods which we want. If we cannot get broadcloth we can wear Southern kerseys and satinets, and we should merit much more, dressed in that, than if we were lull rigged in superfines from Old or New England. I believe such privilege or proleclion, call it as you like, would raise the price of land when it was in operation. I am certain on this point. Perhaps there are 10,000 acres oflandinthis district utterly useless as a smrce of income to the owners. The most of it the owners would not acknowledge as their property il they were not “ stirred up wdth a sharp stick” by the tax collector. But, poor as it is, every acre of it, perhaps, would pay to the owner two or three dollars per annum, without any enrichment of soil, if permitted to use it in the manner propo- sed. This is more than the land is worth now, or ever will be, without this change. My opin- ion is, that the privilege extended to one or more districts would induce people to come within the limits w'ith their money to be so invested. The town, the manufactories and the people, are all to be benefitted by such a movement. Let the unanimous petition of the district place us, if possible, for the third time, at the head of a great enterprize. N. Athens, Oct., 1845. Suggested Plan for Improving Soil. Mu. Camak: — In the South, to be successful, we must have an agricultural literature of our own. The same plan of operations isnot equal- ly well adapted to every section of this exten- sive country. That which answers an excel- lent purpose in a cold latitude may succeed but very indifferently in a warm climate. Theo- ries in fanning may many times appear beauti- ful upon paper which turn out most badly in practice, I would give more lor the experience of one intelligent practical farmer than for a thousand theories that have never been tested by actual experiment. The experience and experi- ments of the best and most sHccessful farmers of this section of country is what we want. Will the farmers and planters of this region withhold this information any longer. I would fain hope not. Come, gentlemen, let your com- munications adorn the columns ol the South- ern Cultivator— a paper that will well com- pare with any agricultural paper published ei- ther South or North. So far as my observation has extended, in the South we have three kinds of agricultural doc- trines taught. One class of individuals says, wear out your land and move away. Another says, use prudence by resting the land and other means so as to make it last as long as you conveniently can, and then move. Others say, so manage as to improve both the soil and crops, I believe the last to be the sounaest doctrine. This doctrine cannot be carried into prac- tice, however, without manuring. The next difficulty is, how can that be effected by the least possible expense ot time and labor. Now for the practical part: I will take ten acres of perfectly exhausted laud — surface sandy with a clay subsoil. Next month I will sow half a bushel ot rye per acre, which I will turn under with a one horse turning plow, being careful not to cover so deep but that it will come up well. Next May, when the rye is not yet ma- tured, I will sow upon, and right among the rye standing as it is, two bushels of corn, (mixed with cow peas, say one peck,) on each acre. Then, when the corn is about tasseling, I will sow rye again and turn under the corn and peas. The tollowing spring, I will lay off and plant corn, and so soon as it comes up I will, with a turning plow, cover up for manuie all the rye that is growing in the spaces between the rows. Will any of the readers of the Southern Cultivator point out the defects of the above and communicate by means of the Southern Cultivator, a better method? The followingare some ol its advantages : The growing rye will keep the land from washing during the winter rains. It takes less of rye than of any other grain per acre to sow land. After the corn crop is raised, sow w'heat or oats or rye, and then corn and peas, broadcast, and turn under, and then a crop ot corn or cotton. By that means the land produces a crop every year ex- cept the first— that is, next year. By repeated plowings, in sowing and turning under the ma- nures, the land will be kept free of weeds, &c. How will such a plan do ? Intelligent farm- ers of the South, an answer is respec:fully re- quested. I have n^med a one horse turning plow, because all the most experienced farmers say that too deep plowing will ruin the land in this region. I ask for information. I make no pretensions to agricultural experience or know- ledge myself. Charles D. Davis. P. S. -—Should any one see fit to suggest ano- ther plan, the comparative expense and the mo~ dus aperandi is requested to be given. Sugar Caue~Iiiquiry. Mr. Camak: — A lew of us in the vicinity ol this place, who are your subscribers, wish your opinion on a subject about which we difl^er. It is the mixture of the two kinds of sugarcane. Where the green and ribbon cane have been planted very close to each other we have disco- vered a third kind, partaking of the nature of both the other plants, but not exactly like either. It has a blue color, but has not the stripes of the ribbon cane. In texture, it is softer than the ribbon and harder than the green. It contains more sap than the ribbon, but not so much as the green. But the sap contains more saccha- rine matter than that of the green, and not so much as that of the ribbon. Some of us think it is a mixture of the other two kinds, while others think they canliot mix, as they never bloom or bear seeds. As we have agreed to refer the matter to you, you will please give us your opinion ; and if you believe such plants mix, say, by what process in nature such mixture is effected. Respectfully yours, (iuisauE. BxLckeye, Laurens Co., Oct. 4, 1845. Liime* Mr. Camak: — Upon the suggestion of the Rev. C, W. Howard, 1 take the liberty of ad- dressing you, upon a subject in which I presume you will take some interest. We are preparing to burn lime in large quantities, under an im- pression that the demand tor agricultural pur- poses will be great when its value as a manure comes to be properly appreciated in Georgia. Our quarry is situated immediately upon the line ot the railroad in the valley ot the Cona- sena creek, Cass county. The rock is of a su- perior quality, and we have every advantage necessary to burn it with economy. We desire to obtain your opinion as to the probability of its being used by the planters of your acquaint- ance, and what will be the maximum price they will give for slaked lime per bushel. We should also be happy to receive your good offi- ces in making known through the Cultivator the fact of our being prepared to supply any or- ders after the first of December. As soon as I can ascertain the exact rate of freight upon the railroads 1 wish to insert an advertisement at fixed prices per bushel or barrel. The cost ot transportation is the main item., and I am alraid the Railroad companies will charge too much. We design at the outset to put the price as low as possible, as only in this way can it be brought into immediate and extensive use. The liberal use of lime as a manure, by lerliliz- ing the soil will increase its production, and thereby cause a large surplus to be sent by rail- road to market, it appears to me that this ar- gument ought to induce the companies, as well for their own interest as that of the agricultu- rist, to fix the rate of transportation at a mini- mum, Mr. Howard desires me to ask you to speak upon this subject toCol. Jehn Billups. He is a large planter, and one who, it is probable, would be likely to appreciate the value of lime as a manure. Please excuse any trouble an early attention to this letter may give you. Your obedient servsnt, Wm. Spencer Brown. P. S. At Vne advertised rates of freight we can afford slaked lime at from 25 to 30 cents per bushel ; ot course, as the rates are reduced the price will fall in proportion. Home, Floyd Co., Oct. 10, 184.5. Liq,uid Manure.— The Chinese, who are particularly skilful in the management of ma- nure, are extremely careful not to wmste the smallest portion ; and, according to Sir George Staunton, they prefer the dung of birds to that of all others, and next to that, night soil, which they apply in a liquid stale. THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 173 ^gricnltural ilUetings. Agricultural Meeting In Barbour County. A meeting of the Barbour County Agricul- tural Society was field on Saturday, the 4lh in- stant, in the Town HaU in Eufanla, Ala. The President, Col. A. McDonald, in the Chair, and H. Hemphill, Secretary. The object ol the meeting having been stated by the President to be, to make arrangements for the approaching anniversary of the Society, and the Agricultural Fair to take place on the 5th day of November, being the first Wednes- day in the month. The following letter from Dr. J. M. llaiford to the President of the Society, was read, on the subject of giving premiums for fine cotton ; Glennville, Octobers, 1845. Col. McDo.vald: — Dear Sir — Owing to phy- sical indisposition I shall not be able to attend the Agricultural Meeting in Eulaula to-mor- row. I regret it very much, as it has been my desire at that meeting to consult with the larm- ers of the Society, on the subject ol the propo- sition I suggested to you, when I saw you last. Tne proposition is this: that some ten or moreoi the farmers who belong to the Society, contribute the sum of five dollars each, which shall be appropriated to the purchase of a suit- able silver premium to be awarded to the indi- vidual who exhibits the best lot of ten, fifteen or twenty bales of cotton, (the number can be de- finitely fixed by the competitors,) at the Agri- cultural Pair on the 22d November next. The same rules and regulations that were observed by the Apalaf'hicola Chamber ol Commerce in the examination of toUons and award ol pre- miums, in the years ’41, ’2, ’3 and ’4, to be ob- served in the award of the premium under con- sideration. At a glance, my dear sir, you discover the great benefit such an exhibition would exert on the immediate interest of the competitors, by causing them to take more pains in the prepara- tion of their cottons, thereby improving the quality and price, and also in awakening a spi- rit of emulation in others to excel in the man- agement ol this important article. Ultimately it will have an incalculable beneficial influence on the prosperity and reputation of the country, and will also be of vast benefit to Eufaula as a commercial city. I would be glad that you would bring this subject before the attention of the Society, and if the proposition takes, let me know soon. With respect, &c. John M. Raiford. The following gentlemen were appointed a committee to take into consideration the matter contained in the letter of Dr. Raiford, and re- port to the Society, to wit: Col. J, L. Hunter, Gen. C. Shorter, John A. Calhoun, Esq., and Abner McGehee. On motion of W. S. Paulin, Messrs. Cal- houn, Flournoy and Archer, were added to the Executive Committee. The President ofiered the following resolution : Whereas, there is the greatest diversity of opinion as to the extent of the present crop of cotton ; and whereas, it is believed that owing to the unparalleled drought that has prevailed throughout the cotton growing sections during the past summer, that there will be an immense falling off of that valuable staple from the a- inount made the previous year ; and whereas, ft is a matter ol the deepest interest to the cot- ton planters as well as the community at large, toascertain as near as possible the extent of the crop or the quantity made: — Be it resolved. That the corresponding Secretary of the Barbour County, Agricultural Society, be requested to commence a correspondence wdth the growers of cotton in the different sections of the cotton growing region, for the purpose of ascertaining as near as possible the amount of the crop, and lay the correspondence before the next meeting of the Society. The Committee appointed on Dr. Railord’s letter, made the following report: The Committee to whom was referred a let- ter from John M. Raiford, Esq , Vice-President of the Society, on the subject of offering pre- miums for fine cotton — report that they have had the same under consideration, and recom- mend that a subscription be opened at o.ie or two dollars for each individual — the amount collected to be equally divided between the suc- cessful competitors of two lots, one of five, and one of twenty bales, to be exhibited on the 1st Monday in December next, at the market of Eufaula, at 12 o’clock : Provided, also. That if the merchants shall contribute the largest a- mount of money, that the said cotton shall be sold in the town of Eufaula. Jno. L. Hunter, Chm’n, ) Reuben C. Shorter, ^Com’ttee. J John A. Calhoun, Abner McGehee, The report was taken up, and upon motion of Mr. Calhoun, the same was laid upon the table, to be considered at an adjourned meet- ing, to be held on Saturday next, at which the merchants be invited to attend. Resolved, That the President appoint a com- mittee of five to award premiums and make ar- rangements for a Fair to be held at the Market House in Eufaula, on the 5th day of November next. Resolved, That the proceedingsbe published in the Eufaula Democrat and the Southern Shield. The Society then adjourned till Saturday next. The following gentlemen, from the Execu- tive Committee, met and decided on the pre- miums to be given at the Fair: John A. Cal- houn, Esq., Thomas Cargile, Esq., and W. S. Paulin. For the best stallion. 4 years old or upwards S3 00 2d best honors Best filly, 3 years old or upwards. 00 2d best honors. Best colt, 2 years old I vol. Southern Cultivator. 2d best honors. Best year old colt 1 vol. Albany Cultivator. 2d best .honors. Best brood mare, with or without coll $3 00 2d best honors. Best mule colt honors Best bull @3 00 2d best I vol. Southern Planter. 2d best honors. Best milch cow S3 00 2d best American Agriculturalist. 3d best Tennessee Agriculturist. Bast 2 year old heifer Southei n Planter. 2d best honors. Best boar Southern Cultivator 2d best .honors. Best breeding sow Albany Cultivator. 2d best, honors. Best 10 yards negro cloth. .. .American Agriculturist. 2d best....... .honors. Best plow Tennessee Agriculturist. 2d best .honors. Best counterpane $1 00 2d best honors. The following gentlemen were appointed judges to award premiums at the Fair: Gen. R. C, Shorter, Wilson M. Bates, Dr. J. M. Raiford, Henry Tolston and Benjamin Gardner. H. Hemphill, Secretary. Greenville Agricultural Exhibition. The Society met on Saturday, October 4, at 10 o’clock, A. M. The President, V. McBee, Esq., took the Chair, Several new members were admitted. Reports of competitors for pre- miums wmre received by the President, and Committees were filled by the appointment of persons in the room of absentees. Officers were elected for the ensuing year, viz: B. P. Perry, Esq., President; Col. S. M. Earle and Dr. A. B. Crook, Vice-Presidents; C. J, Elford, Esq., Secretary, and Dr. C. B. Slone, Treasurer. At 12 o’clock the Society repaired to the lots where domestic animals were collected for ex- hibition ; and notwithstanding the rain and in- clemency of the day, the show of horses, cattle, hogs and sheep, wms equal, if not superior to anything hitherto seen in Greenville, The cat- tle were certainly superior to any previous col- lection. There was a large crowd of specta- tors to witness the exhibition, all of whom evinced great interest in observing the fine spe- cimens of improved stock. The examination of the committee over, and the curiosity of the crowd satisfied in the slock line, after an interval for dinner, the Society re-assembled in Mr. McBee’s large new build- ing, at hall-past 2, P. M. The spacious room was already filled with ladies and gentlemen. Here v as to be seen the ladies’ department of the day’s exhibitions, and the display was truly admirable, both in the useful and ornamental ; fine culinary vegetables, fresh butter, tastefully prepared for show, domestic cloth, and rich bed quilts, specimens of knitting, ornamental nee- dle work, and fancy work of great variety, and baskets of choice and beautiful flowers. The President, V. McBee, called to order, and the committees reported successively on the award of premiums of $5 Silver Cups, as follows : The Committee on Horses, through B. F. Perry, Chairman, reported, awarding a premium for the best Horse to Col S. M. Earle’s Colt — from Bay Maria, by Col. Hampton’s Monarch; and to Gen. I'hompson’s sorrel Filley. out of Zela, by .lohn Bascombe. To W. M. Goodletl’s .Mule Colt, the premium for the best Mule Col. McNeely, from the Committee on Cattle, re- ported, awarding the premium to Dr. C. B. 5'tnne’s Durham Bull Osceola, 3 years old — and a certificate for the second faest^ 10 Dr. Stone’s Calf Moneco, 9 months old. For the best Cow or Heifer — premium to Mr. Me. Bee’s red Heifer, mo.nths old, by Dr. Stone’s Bull, Osceola, out ofafinecow of the native stock, bel ong- itig to Mr. McBee ; and a certificate for the secottd best to Gen. Thompson’s Cow, a superior animal of native stock. The Committee on Hogs, through Col T. P. Butler, Chairman, awarded the premium for the best Boar, to V McBee’s pig Osceola, by . I R. Poinsett’s Berkshire Boar, from Col. Hoke’s Soxv Bettv. For the best Sow, to .Mr. Bradshaw’s Sow Betty, of the same slock. The (tommillee on Grain awarded the premium to Dr. O. B Irvine, for the greatest product of Wheat per acre ; report on Corn postponed till November. Premiums for domestic and household manu- factures, vegetables, butter, ornamental work, &c., V ere awarded a.? tollows: For the best piece of Domestic Cloth, a Work Bag, worth S2.5(I. to Mrs. Martha Alexander. To Mrs. Dr. Stone, a Silver Hook and Thimble, for the be.«l Bed-quilt. To Mrs. Bradshaw, a silver Butler Knife, for the best specimen of Butter. For the best specimen of Knitting, a set of silver Knitting Needles, to Miss Eugenia Stone. For the best basket «f Flowers, a copy of the Arneri- can Flower Garden Companion, to Mrs. General Earle. For the best basket of Culi nary Vegetables, a copy of Miss I.eslie’s Complete Cookery, to .Mrs Dr. Stone. The Committee on Ornamental Needle Work, award, ed a premium of a Gold Thimble, to Miss Jane Walker The thanks of the Society were voted to Miss Sarah Belcher and Mi.ss Ann Hyde, for beauti- ful specimens ol Straw Bonnets, manufactured by themselves ; also to Mr. Bradshaw, for a spe- cimen, in the box, of Honey taken from the “Bee Palace;” also to Dr. T. Croft, for a spe- cimen of Rice grown in Greenville District; also to D. Westfield, for specimens of a Draw- ing Knife, and assortments of Chisels of supe- rior workmanship and finish, made by him. On motion, a committee of three, consisting of B. F. Perry, G. F. Townes and C. J Elford, were appointed to select for publication, reports of the competitors for premiums. V. McBee, Esq., towards the close of the meeting, lelt the Chair, and called on his suc- cessor, B. F. Perry, to preside. Mr. McBee made a brief address on retiring, and recom- mended various measures calculated to pro- mote the interest of the Society. Maj. Perry addressed the Society and meeting Irom the Chair, first returning his acknowledumenis for the honor of being elected to the post of Presi- dent ; and he suggested various important means of encouraging and securing the permanent ex- istence and usefulness of the Society. On motion, the thanks of the Society were vo- ted to the late President and other officers of the Society, lor the able and faithful discharge of their respective duties. On motion. Resolved, That the President be authorized to select some one to deliver an an- niversary address at the next annual meeting. On motion, adjourned. V. McBee, Prest. G. F. Townes, Secretary. 174 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. Florida Sugar— Letter from F. P. Miller. From the Floridian. We have been shown a specimen of Sugar manufactured by F. P. Miller, E«q , ot Jeffer- son county, (referred to in the letter below,) which IS by far the finest sample of Florida su- gar we ha ve ever seen. It is nearly equal in whiteness to the Havana box, and is superior to ihe sugar broushl here froiii New Oilcans. Liad vve the capital to erect proper works, sugar would soon become no snrall item in our ex- ports, As it is, however, our planters will soon be able to manufacture not only sufficient for their own use, but to supply the demand of our home markets. The annexed letter from Mr. Miiler, which has been kindly furnisiied us by Gov. Mosely for publication, contains some hints which may be u.sfeul to those engaged in the cultivation of the cane. We would re- spectfully suggest to those of our planters who have had experience in the manufacture of su- gar to communicate tlie result of their observa- tions to the public. We should be happy to ex- tend the use of our columns to any one who would favor us with ai tides upon sugar as well as upon the culture of tobacco, &c. Jefferson Co., Sept. 1, 1845. Dear Sir; — In a communication which I re- ceived from you a few days ^nce, you request- ed of me to furnish you with an article on the cultivation and manufacture ol sugar. 1 have had some hesitancy in complying with your re- que.st, only from the fact, that my opinions would possibl}' differ with some of the farmers of the country, and some, too, of experience. But, after giving the subject due consideration, and thinking [ might be of service to some in my communication, i have yielded to your re- quest; and, so far as I am capable of giving my opinions, you shall have them freely. As 1 am more accustomed to using my farming utensils than wielding the pen, and knowing better how to make sugar than to describe the operation, you must allow me to give my opin- ions in my own plain way. In the first place, I prefer the ribbon cane for this climaie, for the reason that it will stand the cold spells, which we are sometimes subject to in the fall season, much better than the green. I have noticed in 'some crops that I have made, where my cane has been mixed, that the green cane has soured after a killing frost, when the ribbon cane would be perfectly sweet. This I consider a great ad- vantage by giving the planter more time to ga- ther in the other products of his farm. The sample of sugar which I send you, was m^.de from the ribbon cane after a severe freeze, which 1 consider a good test of its preference. 1 have been accustomed to banking my seed cane in low, flat beds, say about lour feet deep, with the toots inclined downwards, and leav- ing them entirely uncovered with earth until af- ter the first frost, or until the blades are entirely cry. The advantage to be gained by this mode of putting up seed cane, I consider a great one, from the fact that the cane will remain in a warm, moist slate, during the winter, and the roots and eyes will not only be perfectly sound by the usual planting time, but will have put forth their sprouts, and secure to the planter an earlier and better stand. The usual mode of banking up seed, by drawing the bed to a nar- row ridge on top and covering with earth be- fore the blades are thoroughly dried, causes the cane to heat, and consequently a great ma- ny of the sprouts will perish from dry rot. The kind of .soil from which I raised my cane last year is of good quality pine land, about fourteen or fifteen inches deep, of a very light east, and has been in cultivation several years. Cane should never be planted on first year’s ground, from the fact that the juice ex- tracted from it will not granulate. The most favorable time for planting, in my opinion, is about the middle of February, provided there is a suitable warm spell ; for I consider the cane to be doing much better by remaining in bank, where it will sprout and remain sound and not exposed to the cold until the earth has become a little warm. My own observation has convin- ced me that cane planted about this time, will grow off faster, be equally as forward, and the stand much belter than when planted earlier. 1 have usually planted my cane four feet between rows, and very thick in the drill: a stalk of cane six feet long, should lap or be touching. The seed should be planted deep and covered with a turning plow. The first working which it receives should be done with the hoe, what is commonly called by the farmers flat-weeding. This will break the crust which may have been formed on the sur- face of the bed, and forward its coining up. The first plowing I usually give my cane is with the turning plow, but after it becomes ol any size, I use the sweep. The usual lime for laying by, is the first of June, t ut should it be growing rapidly, I would advise later and deep- er plowing, which will check the growth and cause it to mature betler. It will have been noticed by all who are in the habit of using it, that the saccharine matter is greatly increased alter the growth has been checked by the first frost : and nniil then should never be cut for grinding:. lam convinced that a great many of the failures in making sugar is caused from the fact of the cane being topped too high, and consequently a good deal of the juice is extracied from cane that is not matured. The best criterion to be governed by is from the blades drying up, and leaving the stalk exposed only so far as the cane is matured ; and 1 make it a rule to cut my cane at the joint above the first green blade, by which means you are cer- tain not to have any cane unmatured. I have found a great advantage in cutting iny cane and exposing it to the sun about two or three days before grinding. A good deal of the watery particles will evaporate, without any loss of the saccharine matter. The process of boiling will depend a great deal upon the quality of the cane and its maturity. A person would learn more from seeing a lew boilings taken off than from all he might hear or read on the subject. In the first place, I would advise the use of lime, which assists a great heal in clarifying, and causes the grain to be much firmer. My plan ol using it is to mix a halt gallon of the cane juice with a half pint of lime; after setting a while pour it off. This quantity should be put into a hundred gallons ol the cane juice. It is best not to commence skimming until it is near- ly in the act of boiling, at which lime most ol the scum has risen to the surface, and is much easier taken off. There are so many marks by which the sugar maker ascertains when his boiling has arrived at the sugar state, that it would be difficult to describe them all. I will give one or two which I consider most certain : It is known by all who have any experience in sugar making, that, as llie boiling approaches the sugar state, the froth or foam is greatly in- creased, and the bubbles become much smaller, by constantly dipping up and pouring it of! from the cooler. It will be seen that the quantity of liquor or .syrup decreases very rapidly after the boiling has turned down: this should be con- tinued until there is hut a small quantity of sy- rup left, which will be seen in the drainings from the cooler. Another criterion to be gov- erned by is, when it is ready to be taken off, the bubbles, instead oi rising and falling out from the centre, will turn in, when it should be taken off and put into the cooling vessel as soon as possible. With regard to the process of dripping, I would .say that it is all-important to have the molasses well drained from the bottom of the barrels ; to effect v;hich, it is necessary to have two or three holes bored in the bottom, into which should be in.serted stalks ot cane, which will gradually wither and leave the orifice larg- er at the lime when the draining is most needed from the bottom. The hoops should be well loosened after the sugar has been in the barrels a few days. In conclusion, I would say, that I believe as S'ood sugar can be raised here as in any coun- try, from the fact, that I have seen samples ol sugar made in this country, that wouki compare with tlie best quality of imported sugar, and if not cultivated as an article for market, should be made by all the farmers for their ov n con- sumption. Yours, truly, Fr.ancis P. Miller. To Gov. Wm. D. Moseley. Silk Culture iu the United States. From the National Intelligencer^ 3Iessrs, Gales cf- Seaton; — In your European Correspondent’s letter of August 20, published in the Intelligencer of September 13, 1 find the following para;..’aph : “ in the Journal des Debals of the 12th inst. (here isacolumn of American statistics derived from the last report of your Commissioner of Patents. Towards the end, it is said that the culture of ibe mulbeiry and the raising of the silkworm have utterly and ruinously failed in the United States. ‘ Let France, ‘ it is added, ‘cease to fear American competition ; the Union will be for her an immense market.’ We may hope that the silk case is not so forlorn with you. What are the natural obstacles to perseverance and success.” 1 assume the duty ol answering the very in- teresting interrogatory at the close of this para- graph. There are ^o nalnral obstacles to jser- severance, much less to success, in the silk busi- ness in the United Stales. The obstacles to its progress at present are purely artificial and ephemeral. I have had my eye upon this sub- ject now twenty-one years. That I might be a disinterested witness even in thepublic opinion, I have kept myself clear ot any pecuniary inie= rest in the culture of silk. I have witnessed its progress, its experiments, its successes and its failures; have scrutinized all the details of each and all ; and have never yet found the slightest reason to drmbt its ultimate successful estab- lishment as one of our main staple productions. The reason of its apparent depression at this time is to be found in the very place where it should be most rationally looked lor. The late speculation in mulberry trees, called the multi- caulis speculation, which I never failed to op- pose, and which I never in the slightest degree advanced, caused expectations oUmfits from the silk business that were not only unreasona- ble, but wildly extravagant. The failure to re- alize these expectations by the many that began the culture ol silk, and although a rea- sonable profit was at hand, induced its aban- donment by thousands. They expected to re- alize a thousand dollars from an investment of capital and labor that in any other agri- cultural employment would have been sat isfactorily compensated by fifty or a hundred. Disappointed in this extravagant expectation, they abandoned the enterprise. Another obsta- cle was found to its progress in the go-ahead character of our people, and their want of fore- sight. They raised large quantities of cocoons before there were means provided for their con- version into any useful article, and had not pa- tience to preserve them till these means were provided. This v/as a great error, and placed one of the most insurmountable obstacles in the way of our progress. Let everybody understand that the late multi- caulis speculation had nothing to do with our capability to produce silk; that the true friends of the silk culture were always opposed to that speculation, and did all they could to restrain and suppress it, (the writer ot this among them,) but that it had the effect of proving conclusive- ly that the United States, from 32 to 42 degrees of north latitude, (longitude without limit, ) is well adapted to the silk culture, equal in climate to China, superior to China in the enterprise, industry and intelligence of our people, and su- perior to France or even Italy in every requisite for the successful culture ol silk. I may not live to see it, but the time is not far off when even France shall be supplied with silk from this country — all Europe of course. The germ of this great interest is already firmly imbeddpd in our physical condition, and nothing can ar- THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 175 rest its steady progress to an overwhelming ex- tent. The time will come when even cotton will be second to silk on the list of our staple productions. But, before all this can happen, our people will have to learn to be satisfied with moderate but remunerative profits, and to ga- ther these in particles so small that the common or unpractised eye would scarcely discern them. They must also learn to make up large results from small items. Did it never occur to you, Messrs. Editors, that the great difference be- tween our Northern and Southern people con- sists in this peculiar feature— they ol the North are satisfied in collecting large sums from the congregation of extremely small items, almost ultimate aton's ; while they of the South can never contemplate with composure anything less than a crop ol a thousand bales of cotton, that is to yield them twenty to thirty thousand dollars'! Even these \a\Xer., with big eyes, can only see a large cotton field of one hundred to a thousand acres; the individual plant itself is too small for their vision. They forget that it is only from the aggregation of the products of these individual plants that their hundreds or thousands of bales are made up. Now, silk is a peculiarly small article — small, I mean, in physical proportions; but there is no article so well adapted to aggregation into large mas.ses ol value. Please say all this to vour much respected cor- respondent in Paris. Tell him that the self- complaceney of the Journal des Debats is mis- placed, and bid that Journal and the people of Prance, and those of Italy w'ith them, beware of “ American competition” in the production of silk. Respectfully, Gidkon B. Smith. Baltimore, September 13, 1845. Rural Architecture in New England, We extract from the correspondence of one of theeditors of the Louisville Journal, travel- ling in New England, the following notice, ef- fectively descriptive of the character of the im- proved rural edifices in that country : “ I had a great desire to see the lovely cotta- ges at New Bedford, of which Dowming speaks in his Landscape Gardening, but this pleasure I could not enjoy without detaining my com- panions, and I relinquished it with the less re- luctance from having already seen at Boston a number of exauisite rural structures ot different styles, built since my visit to Boston in 1843. These are the Italian villa of Theodore Ly- man, six or eight miles from Boston, and a group of cottages at Linden Place, near Bos- ton, some in the Italian and others in the En- glish Gothic style, but all differing materially in their details. I wisn it were in my powei to give your readers some idea of the delightful emotions with which the sight of these exqui- site specimens of art filled me. If it were, I might contribute thus to create a taste in the Vv^est for rural architecture, of w'hich, I am sorry to say, it is almost wdioll)’^ destitute. These buildings are all of wood — their cost ranges from S2,000 to S10,000 — certainly not more than that of the suburban dwellings of the West generally, and yet they are exceedingly beautiful, perfect gems of architecture, produc- ing an effect infinitely more charming than the most costly Grecian structure, I have seen mo.st of the costly public edifices in this country, but none of them, with the single exception of the new Gothic churcb in Broadway’', New York, give me anything like the pleasure of the cheapest and simplest of these wooden cot- tages, where effect depends in no degree upon size, costliness or material, but wholly upon the magic of art. “I am glad to find that in every quarter of the Eastern and Middle States, the Grecian style of architecture, for dwelling houses, is universally condemned and rejected. Every gentleman of taste here would prefer a tasteful wooden cottage, costing but 3f2,000, to Girard College with its thirty-two immense Corinthian columns. The Grecian style in domestic ar- chitecture is now regarded as vulgar, and no costliness or magnificence can redeem it from the air of inappropriateness and upstart preten- sion. Columns and walls, without visible roof or chimneys look very fine in the ruins of Greece and Rome, and can be endured in le- gislative halls in America, but in tne dwelling house give us the warm hospitable aspect of the old English cottage, with its steep, projecting, bracketted roof, its sharp gables, its swelling and sociable bag-windows, and its long, con- spicuous, ornamented chimney shafts — a style susceptible ot never-ending variety of detail. But I must refer the reader to Downing’s Rural Architecture, trusting that no one will hereafter build the cheapest cottage without first consult- ing that work, or getting a design from an ar- chitect ol taste, one who rejects the Grecian styles, and assuring the reader that, however admirable may appear the designs in Down- ing, the houses themselves appear infinitely finer. Theodore Lyman’s Italian villa looks well in Downing, but the villa itself infinitely surpasses the idea conveyed by the picture. I neglected to mention Bute cottage, which was built, I think, previous to my visit in 1843. It is a small cheap cotiage, but it is, to my eye, the most charming of all. I noticed one defect, and that wasin the color of the verandah, which is green, and does not harmonize with the other colors of the building. The new cottages are none of them white, but of some quiet unobtru- sive color, drab or light chocolate.” A Chapter on Feathers and Feather Beds. From the Indiana Farmer. He is poor indeed, in this land of abundance, this paradise ol geese, and turkeys, who cannot feather his own bed. At the West, at any rate, whatever other thing is wanting, none need lack a feather bed ; no girl is of a marriageable age or condition who has not earned a feather bed. The careful mother, intent on her daugh- ter’s dower, weaves her sundry woollen blan- kets, (ye gods of the loom! how thick and warm, and cosey, of a winter’s night!) and makes her a huge, well-stuffed feather bed. The Dutch, when fresh from “ fader-land,” sleep not leather beds merely, but under them, employing them instead of bcd-clothes. It is very well, then, to attend to the science of feathers, or as the old sermonizers used to say, their “ origin, nature, and uses, w’ith some practical reflections.” 1. The best feathers lor domestic purposes are geesc-feathers, being the most elastic and durable. There is about as much difference in their quality as in the wool of different breeds of sheep. The quality depends on their strength, elasticity and cleanliness ; and these again, depend upon the condition of the bird, its health, food, and the time of plucking its leathers. Down is the term applied to under feathers— most abundant in water-fowl, and in those especially which live in cold latitudes, being designed to protect them from wet and cold. The eider-down, from the eider-duck, is of the most repute. It is brought from extreme ' northern latitudes, and is used for coverings to beds, rather than for beds themselves, as, by be- ing slept upon it loses its elasticity. Poultry feathers, as those of turkeys, ducks and chickens, if assorted and the coarse ones rejected, afford very good beds; but they are not so elastic as geese-feathers. 2. Everybody knows that live geese-feathers are the best. Every one does not think of the reason; which, a.s it is the key to the art of Iiav- ing good leathers, we shall propound. So long as a bird is alive the feathers are as much an object of nutrition as the flesh, the bones, or any other part. When the bird has been for any time dead, its parts relax, and the feathers are also affected, although from their chemical elements, the decomposition is not as rapid as it is in the flesh. But it begins. 1 hey lose their glossy color, their spring or elasticity, and like the rest of the body, they are dead. Those feathers are best which are plucked in the very height ol health and growth. It is well known that sickness changes the hair and skin of animals. A dull colored hair, dry and rough, is a concomitant of sickness in the horse, ox, &c. On the other hand, a bright, glossy hue is a sign of health. Every one has noticed the same thing in fowls — the drabbled, rumpled, lack-lustre plumage of sick ones. The higher the condition, and the more vigor- ous the health of a flock of geese, the better the fieece-, while a meagre, draggling, half anima- ted flock, never will yield live-geese feathers. The same results arise from the age of fea- thers. They ripen and are shed as the hair of animals. At the time of moulting the feathers are dry and lifeless— because they are spent, and are to be cast off as dead. Whentowls are killed, the feathers will be alive and good, if immediately plucked off before the body grows cold. Sometimes geese are plucked five times a year, but only when they are owned by a greater goose than themselves. Such ava- rice defeats itself. No geese can be healthy un- der such cruel extortion; and, without health, feathers cannot be good ; twice a year, in spring and mid-fummer, is often enough. 2. After fea'hers are picked they require care- ful attention. Every feather is largely imbued with oil, by which it is defended from w'et ; and this oil must be removed or neutralized before feathers are fit for beds. This is effected by heat, or by heat and an alkali. As soon as picked they should be spread upon boards and oven dried, or they ■will hf-at and stick together and putrify. Up- holsterers prepare the feathers by rejecting from them all coarse ones— the tail and small wing feathers. They are next put into rooms heated artificially, with ventilators at the top to let off all impure vapors which arise from them. In this room they are frequently turned till quite drv. They are put into a coarse bolting ma- chine, and whirled round with great velocity until all dirt and dust is driven off. The whole process of curing will reduce their weight about one pound in seven. They are sometimes prepared by sprinkling a little quick-lime over them, which combines with the oil and prevents its becoming rancid. Another mode is to take a round of quick- lime to a gallon of w'ater, stir it well, then let the sediment form, and turn off the clear vi'ater from the top. Immerse the feathers in this for two or three days; then spread them upon coarse nets to dry. Shake them from time to time, and when perfectly dry, put them loosely in hams and beat them thoroughly, and they will be ready for use. If a recipe i.? required for a bed fit fora car- rion-crow, here it is : Let your geese be as un- healthy as possible. Either pluck them four or five times a season, or, if you kill them, let them lie several hours till cold. Then put them into hot water to make the feathers come easy. In pulling, take out large handsful at a time, so as to have scraps ot meat and shreds of skin adhere to the quill ; let them lie for several days in wet heaps to ferment a little. Then dry them suddenly by violent heat, cram them into the bed-tick, and jump on, and if you have not an odorous bed, and. in a month or two, a bed full of visiters seeking food, then there is no truth in the laws of nature. 4. The care of beds, is not understood, often, by even good housewives. When a bed is freshly made it often smells strong. Constant airing, will, if the feathers are good, and onlj'- new, remove the scent. A bed in constant use should be invariably [ beaten and shaken up daily, to enable the fea- thers to retain their elasticity. It should lie after it is shaken up. for two or three hours a day, in a well ventilated room. The human body is constantly giving off a per- spiration; and at night more than usual, from the relaxed condition .of the skin. The bed w'ill become foul from this cause if not well aired. If the bed is in a room which cannot be spared for such a length of time, it should be put out tc- air two full days in the weelr. l/G THE SOUTHERN CUUTIVATOR. In airing beds, /Afi sMWr should neveT shine di- rectly upon them. It is air, not heal, that they need. We have seen beds lying on a roof where the direct and reflected rays of the sun had full pt.wer, and the feathers, without doubt, were steivins, and the oil in the quill becoming rancid; so that the bed smells worse alter the roasting than before. Always air beds in the shade, and, if possible, in cool and windy days. And now, if any of our attentive housewife readers, and we have not a few. are disposed to reward us for all this advice, let them give ns a bed to sleep on, when we next visit them, made of growing feathers, from live and healthy geese, carefully picked, well cured, daily shaken up and thoroughly aired; and if we do not dream that the own^r is an angel, it will be be- cause we are too much occupied in sound sleep- ing- . Improvements in Agriculture. From the Genesee Farmer. “ The great truth that animal manures are nothing else than the ashes of the food produced from our fields, consumed or burned in the bodies of men and animals, has given the chief direction to all modern improvements in agriculture.” — L slig. fhe above remarks deserve the profound con- sideration of every practical farmer. After an animal has attained his maturity, and adds nothing to his weight in the course of a year, it is obvious that the matter which escapes from the body must be the same in quantity as that w'hich enters it. A very notable portion of the food of all warm-blooded animals passes out of the lungs in the form of air and vapor during their ceaseless respiration night and day, just as wood passes out of a chimney when burnt in a fire-place. The combustion ol grass, hay, and grain in the system of the cow, horse, or sheep is not so complete as that of fire applied to the same substances in the open air. In the latter case, nearly all the combustible ingredients — carbon and hydroeen uniied with oxygen and nitrogen — are expelled into the atmosphere. In animal combustion, a larger portion ol carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, and nitrogen remain with the ashes contained in the food taken into the stomach, and voided with the solid and liquid excretions. The time will shortlv come in this State, (New York,) when the liquid and solid manure de- rived irom the combustion of one ton ol hay, or 100 bushels of grain, will he worth half as much to make another ton of hay, or 100 bushels of grain, as the original crop.s were worth. That portion of cultivated plants which es- capes into the air through the lungs of man and his domestic animals, growing plants can re- gain by their roots and leaves, and thus reor- ganize into animal food. But the case is differ- ent with the ashes or earthy portion of all plants. It these minerals are taken from the" soil in crops, and not faithfully restored, by replacing on our cultivated fields all the salts contained in the excretions of the human family and of do- mes'ic animals, the injury to our State and our race will be large, almost beyond calculation. Nearly one-third of all the wheat grown on the globe is raised by the Chinese. For thou- sands of years this wonderful people have culti- vated most successfully this bread-forming plant. For a long period their wheat-fields have been fertilized almost exclusively with the ingredients of wheat derived from its decomposition in the human system. In other words, they manure their fields with night-soil alone. In Belgium and Flanders, the liquid excre- tions of all animals are diluted with twice or three times their bulk ol water, and are then spread over the growing crops, or on to plowed ground, fiom a watering cart. Many years of experience have demonstrated t'ne fact, that the urine of a single cow for a year is worth $9.50 to make into wheat to be sold at 70 cents a bushel. In Holland, cows are kept up the year round in stables, mainly to save every particle of their excretions. The manu- facture of corn, wheat, barley, oats, hay, pota- toes, pork, beef, butter, cheese, wool, and horse flesh, can be reduced to an exact science. The laws of chemical affinity, of vegetable and ani- mal vitality, are uniform and easy to be under- stood, so tar as successful agriculture is con- cerned. One of these laws is, that no man nor vegetable can possibly make anything out of nothing. Another is, that one simple substance, like carbon, cannot be transformed into another simple element, like nitrogen. Clay cannot supply the place of sand, nor sand of clay. It will require as much matt-.r, and the same kind of ingredients, to form ten million bushels of wheat or corn, in 1845, that were consumed lor that purpose in this State in 1844. The same remarks wi.l apply to all agricultural products, whethei vegetable or animal. How, then, can a practical farmer, cultivating 60 acres of arable land, send to market 20 tons of grain, pork, beef, mutton, wool, roots, butter, cheese, and the like, eveiy year, to pay for his groceries, dry goods, nails, crockery, and me- chanical work, and not ultimately sell all the ingredients in his 60 acres, which will dorm crops enough to pay lor cultivation, fences, and taxes? Suppose you have the materials to pro- duce 50 good crops in your now fertile soil, when those materials are worked up and sent to distant cities, where then will the largely, in- creased population of the State go to find their three good meals a day, clothing, &c. ? Do you say, to the West? But what right has the pre- sent generation to consu ne and destroy the na- tural fertility of God’s bountiful earth, to the se- rious injury of those who are to succeed them? By every principle of common justice and philanthropy, we should augment the natural productiveness of the soil at least 4 per cent.per annum, or double its fruits in 25 years. For in that time our race double their numbers, and their physical wants, in the State of New York. COUTEHTS OF THIS HUMBER.^ ORIGINAL PAPERS. Oliicka.saw Pea 171 Good I, enuring “ 70 Hill Side Ditching ‘‘ 169 Improving ib'oil —A plan suggested “ 172 Lime 168,172 TtTtleorological Journal page 167 “ 169 “ 16.S “ 170 “ 172 “• 163 “ 171 “ 169 “ 70 Maine Farrne Peach and Apple Tiade, the Plowing, deep Sugar Cane — Inquiry Sugar Cane. . . Sheep and Wool. .......... The North-West Yankee Enteiprise SELECTIONS, EXTR.».CTS, &C. Analysis of ^oils pag6 164 Agriculture, Improvements in “ 186 App'e Trade, the— Horticulture in Indiana. .. . *• 165 Agricultural Meeting in Barbour comity, Ala. “ 173 Agricultural Exhibition in Greenville “ 173 Education, statistics “ 167 Florida Sugar — Letter from T. P, Miller “ 174 Feathers and Feather Beds, a chapter on “ 175 History of the Thrifty and Unthrifty, the “ 163 Peach Trade, the. “ 165 Remarks of James A. Meriwether, Esq., before the Agricultural Society of Putnam county. “ 161 Runt Architeciuie in New England “ 175 Swiney, or Disease or Strain of the Shoulder. “ 166 Silk Culture in the United States “ 174 ACKSCULTURAI. I VIPCEMENTS. Hazard, denslqw & webster. Savannah, Geo., near the City Hotel, Dealers in PAINTS, OILS, WINDOW GLASS, GUNPOWDER, SHOT, PAPER, AND AGRICULTURAL IMPLEMENTS. In audition to their usual stock of the above named articles, the subscribers have, within the last year, made large additions to their assortment of Agricul- tural Implements, and now offer to planters a greater variety than any other establishment in the Southern country: amongst which may be found the following articles, viz : PLOWS. Yankee cast iron, No. 10, 11 12 and 20 Plows. Dagon, or Conneclicut wrought No. 1, 2 and 3 do Allen pattern, do R uggles, Nourse & Mason’s improved do Viz ; — Eagle plow, heavy, two horse or ox, do do with wheel and cutter. do No. 2 B Plow for two horses, do “ 2 B do with wheel and cutter, do “ A 3 do medium, two horse, do “A3 do with wheel aud cutter, do “ A 2 do light two horse do » A 1 do do one mule, or garden do ‘‘ 6 in. do do one horse turning do “ 7 in. do do do do do “ 15 do new pattern, 1 horse, for light soil do Rubsoil do heavy, two horse, or ox do do do No. 1 do do do da do d» 0 OR« horse do Double mould-board or furrowing do Cotton trenching do Rice do with guage wheel, do A 1 side-hill, or swivel mould-board, do No.O do do for one horse, do Plow irons set up, of the above kinds: also, extra slocks, which can be packed in small compa.'S, thereby making a great saving in transportation. Mould-boards, points and heels or landsides, for all the above plows Improved cultivators, with guage wheel Cultivator plows, or horse hoes, Common Harrows Folding do improved kind, Boxed lever straw cutlers Improved self-feeding strew and corn stalk do, with spiral knives, simple in construction, Corn and cob crushers (hand mill) do do for horse power HOES. W. A. Lyndon’s extra black,C3rolinahoes,Nos.0, 1,2& 3 do bright do do 0,1, 2 A 3 do new ground do doPP&I’PP do oval eye grubbing do do 2&3 do round do do do 2dc3 Anchor hoes do 00, 0,1 &2 Brades, patent do doO, 1,2, 3&4 Light Yankee do CHAINS. Straight-link trace chains, I Ox chains Twisted do do | Log chains from lOto 181 ’t MISCELLANEOUS ARTICLES. Collins’s Axes. Root’s do King’s do Bond’s do Ames’s Shovels, do Handled Spades, do Socket do Ox-bows. Horse rackets, Dirt scrapers. Fan mills, Patent churns. Cotton foot gins, Flails, Iron Shovels, ass’ted kinds, ; Axe-helves, Long Handled Shovels, Manure Forks, Hay do English patent Scythes, American grass do Grass platt do Brush and briar do Briar hooks, Corn cutters. Reap hooks, Scythe Siiailhs, Swinglelrees, Plow lines. Wheelbarrows, Horticultural chesU, Pruning shears. Ditching knives, Garden hoes,variout kinds, Garden ranes, Flour-scrapers, Toy hoes. Garden reels, Grain cradles, new pattern, Transplanting trowels. Rice cradles do do Forks, Post spoons, I Garden-lines, Ox- yokes, ' The subscribers have made sueh arrangements as will enabre them to proeure any improvements which may be made in the plow, or other kinds of implements suit- ed 1o this section, and trust from their great variety, mo- derate prices and exertions to please, ihey may receive a liberal share of public paHonage. Planters, mer- chants, and manufacturers are respectfully invited to examine their stock. Orders thankfully received and promptly attended to. 1-ly GAS43>EiV AND FIEED SEEDS. A GENERAL assortment of fresh and genu- ine Garden and Field Seed, among which ate the following : Red and white clover. Blue and green grass. Rye and orchard do Timothy and herds do Millet and Lucerne do Seed corn of every vaini- Buckwheat & potato oats. Seed wheat, [hie variety Kept constantly on hand by the subscriber, all 3 which are offered for sale at very moderate prices. .Ml orders, by mail OP otherwise, executed with neat ness and despatch. Wm. Haines. Jr., 1 No. 2.3'2, Broad-street, Augusta, Ga. MK. AND MR?i. CH APM A N’S ISOARD- ING AND DAY SCHOOL. No. 22S Broad-street, Augusta, Geo. This instituiton has been un- der the direction of its present Principals for se- ven years, and the success which has attended it has enabled them greatly to increase the facilities it affords for tiie education of young ladies Provision is made for thorough instruction in all the departments of fe- male education. The next term commences October Isl. Pupils can enter at any time daring the term, and will be charged for the lime they are members of the school. Tuition $8, $12 and $15 per quarter, ac- cording to the age and standing of the scholar. Music and French at the usual rates. Board $15 per month. 9-4 1 Southern dTultiuotor Is published on the first of every month, at Augusta, Ga i. W. & W. S. JONES, PROPRIETOR!?. EDITED BY JAMES CAMAK, OF ATHENS, GAq TERMS.-ONE DOLLAR A YEAR. 1 copy, one year $l oo I 25 copies, one year, ..$20 00 0 copies, “ 5 00 I too copies, “ .. 75 00 [All subscriptions must commence with the volume.] The Cash System will be rigidl)’ adhered to, and In no case will the paper be sent unle.ss the money accompanies the order. , ,, , , Advertisements pertaining to Agriculture, will be in- serted for ON DOLLAR foT every square of ten lines or less, for the first insertion, and seventy-five cents per square for each continuance. [i;^PosT Masters are authorized to receive and for- ward money free of postage. ri3=-ALL COMMUNICATIONS, MUST BE POST PAID, and addressed to JAMES CAMAK, Athens, Georgia. VoL. III. AUGUSTA, GA., DECEMBER, 1845. No. 12. KE.TIAisKS OF JABIES A. 3IEEilWE- THERy Esq , Before the Agnc^furgL Socle/!/ of Putn im Co. , May, 1343 • [CONCLCEED TROII EAST NO.] Peat may likewise be reniered a valuable ma- ^nure by saturaiio^ it with the conl^t? of tbe washtub — by pouring upon it hum^fcrine — by pouring on it the slop from the kit^ren, and by "'mixing ashes with it. It is the great natural ma- nure of rniij^die Georgia, and it requires but little art and ^bor to make it a source of great profit to our farmers. It is found on every branch and c^k in Putnam county, and the valley of Leek .jcreek has enough to manure the whole county for ' years. Mr. Dana, in his Muck Manual, says, “ it is highly concentrated vegetable food,” and is no- thing more than “ pood mud, the slushy material found at the bottom of ponds when dry, or in low grounds, the wash of higher lands.” Some is mere valuable than others ; that whijh is deposited by eddy water is the best, yet all washings con- tain vegetable matter, and are therefore valuable. It licks only ammonia to make it equal to cow- dung. Mr. Dana says, “it is certainly a very cu- rious coincidence of results, that nature herself should have prepared a substance whose agrirultu- ral value approaches so near cow- dung, the tj’pe of manures.” “ The great qu stion comes, how is to be given to peat, (a substance which in all its other characters is so nearly allied to cow-dung,) that lacking element, aram^'nia? By the addition of slkul: to peat, it is put iiit.) the state which ammo- nia gives to dung. The question then arises, how much alkali is to be added to stable dung .i* A corl of stable dung composted With two of peat forms a manure of equal value to three cords of green dung. Indeed, the permanent effects of this compost exceeds those of stable dung. The best plan for preparing this manure would be to dry the peat, or swamp muck, in the fall; in the spring of the year let this be mixed in the proportion of 30 lbs. of potash, or 20 lbs. of soda-ash, orS bushels common house ashes, to every cord of fresh dry peat. If ashes are used they may be mixed at once with tbe muckj if soda ash or potashes are used, Ihej'mu.st be dissolved lu water, and the pile evenly wet with the solution. 11 spent ashes are • used to prepare this muck, add one cord of spent ■ ashes to three cords of peat or swamp muck. ' There are other sources of alkali for convening peat into soluble matter. It has beeu actually pro- ved by experiment that a dead horse can convert 20 tons of peat into a ' almble manure, richer and more lasting than stable dung.” The next great and prolific source of ammonia is the urine. I have been thus minute in reference to peat, because it is a manure which is to be found on eve- ry plantation— !-is accessible, and by a very little - labor is capable of being made very valuable, and it n^st therefore of necessity, prove to this region of Georgia the basis of all compost manures. We need but a slight acquaintance with us properties to induce us to make a general application of it. It should always be compjsted with othei manures that it may acquire ammonia, the great food of all plants, and which it lacks. Let me urge you to try It ; it naay be had plentifully for the labor of digging. Another source of improvement to our lands, is me plowing in of green vegetables, Professoi “this manuring is perf irmed with the least loss by the vegetables in the green state, in no other form can the same crop convey to the sou an equal amount of enriching m after as in that Ot green leaves and stems.” The crop should be plowed in while green, for if exposed to the air, green vegetable substances gradually give up a portion of the saline matter they contain to the iaias that fall, and hence a great feriiliziijg pro- perty is lost. A distinguished agriculturist in Maryland states on his own experience, that the very best green manure, even better than clover, is green corn, bow it broad cast ; when of conve- nient height, plow it,under — sow again, and again turn it under, and so of the third sowing in the same season. He says, “ many suppose the oil plan of clover laying, is the cheapest and best; I differ with them ; you can put but one clover lay’er in every two years — you can turn under three crops of corn in ay’car, and each crop of corn will carry as much nutritive matter into the soil as each crop of clover can do.” Let the experiment be tried ; the labor bestowed on one acre is not much, if wholly lost; if successful, you have gain- ed a great deal. There is an indisposition however w'ith many to commence a system of manuring because they say it takes too much time, is too troublesome, and has to be repeated every year, and not having ma- nure for all his land, the farmer concludes it is not worth while to manure any. But is there any truth in these obiections ? Land well manured 'vill increase the product many fold ; by increasing the fertility you can reduce tbe number of acres in cultivation — the time saved in cultivation may be applied to the preparation of manures, by whiih an annual increase is made, and so in succession are the crops increased and the land enriched. A retrenchment in the expenditure- for tools and their repair is effected — an outlay of capital for horses, iStc., is saved, and otherwise emplo3ed. In fact, it is the most effective system of economy which can be resorted to ; for every one knows, that if by a system of cultivation thirty acres of land can be made to yield as much as one hundred acres did before, that there must be a savitig in the number of hands and horses which cultivate it, as well as in the food whien supports them, and the capital emploj’ed. As a matter of economy let every farmer improve his lands, and if he has only manure enough to make 20 acres toh.ra ly rich, or ten acres very rich, let him enrich the ten, as a matter of economy. Last year I attempted an ex- per:ment in this way; I selected one acre of ground very poor, so much so as not to be fit for cultivation. L’^pon it I placed 300 bushels of ma- nure, and the result was 43 bushels of corn, and 66 i lbs. of well cured fodder. I do not think that the land would have produced three bushels with- out the manure. The ground was laid off in drilis four feet apart, the rows were first run with a scooter, then plowed deeper with a long pointed shovel, and in the bottom of these a long broad pointed coulter was again run. Tbe manure was deposited in the bottom of the furrow— ihe corn was planted on it, and covered wiih the plow. The land was then broken with theeoulter, once plowed with the shovel, and once hoed. At no time did the corn even wither or droop, while some near by was very much twisted aad affected by the drought. But after applying the manure to the land, a great object is, so to apply it as to make it tbe most available and enduiing. On our broken lands it is su''ject to be wasted away along with the soilj by the heavy rains. To prevent this, hill- side ditches have been found to answer valuable purposes. If properly constructed with sufficient fall and capacity, and proper length, they will be found to answer every put pose. In the i nprove- ment of broken lands this seems to be the first consid. ratioii, and without this preparation the af- ter labor of manuring seems to be badly and al- most uselessly applied. But supposing the ditches opened and the ma- nure ready to be applied, how stjall it be done } on the surface, or at the root of the grain lapp.thenJI shall be encouiueiing some old and stubbori' pi-ejadice^, in advancing the opinion, that it should be applied beneath the surface. Broadcast manuiing is decidedly to be preferred jo that in the hill, because, the roots extending but, pass beyond the limits of the manure in the hill, and therefore draw no supporter nouiishment fro.m it, save those roots which are immediately in its ricinity, whereas if the manure is spread broad cast, the more they extend the greater tbe supply of it. If the soil be sandy it would doubtless be best to apply the manure between the suiface and the grain when applied in the hill, but on s<.il not sandy, apply it beneath the surface and beneath the grain. A common oj-inion prevail.'!, that manure sinks, and therefore to benefit the plant, you should place it on the surface, that in making its descent the roots may catch it. But whoever dug into the ground and found where the manure sank to ? But one fact w^ili contradict th s theory; ammo- nia is said to be the life-giving property of ma- nure ; this is gaseous — intangible and incapable of being seen — ii exposed to the air it escapes, and is lost to the plant, f-o to a manure heap, and the offensive smell like hartshorn w'hich in' ets j’ou is the ammonia. Now if it did not rise, but sank, then these heaps would yield no smell at all. To put manure upon the surlace is but tc expose to evaporation its most valuable parts. Rain and sun, have the effect to dissipate all the salts and gan?irue the signs of the times, the soil of Cobb is des- tined to n highly itnproved culture. The So- ciety now number* more than an hundred tiqem- bers, all of whom manliest much interest. Several ol the members, Me.ssrs. Goodman, Roberts, Pooteand Lemon, manifested a praise- worthy .spirit of liberality in olfering individual- ly premiums for w'ool, woollen blanlcels, &.C., in addition to the Society’s premiums, for our next Annual Pair. A. J. Hansell, Scc’y c- c. i. a, Iturbour C o. Agricu (iiral Society l<'alr. From lh« Tiiifiiiil.i (AltiliRmii,) Slitrld 'Phe " Barbour County Agi iciiliural Society" met in this place in the Town Hall, on Wed- nesd.iy, 5ib iinsf. a large number ol ladie.sand gentlemen in allend, nice. Tbe I’ri sident (t^id. .VlcD. maid) called ibe meeting lo older, and in ttie aliscnce of ihe Secretary, Bei j iinin Gard tier was requested to act in that capaeiiy. Tbe [iroceedings ot the last meeting were read, logeiber with the ad venisemCni of ilieEx- cedlive Commiliee, ollering premiums for the best Slock enumerated therein — and lor the best arlieles of domc.slic rnanulaclures — alter wliich, ihe President read an appropriate to the occa- sion, and eloquent exlraci from an address deliv- ered by C, Baxter, Esq , before the Agrieiil- lural Society ol ilaiicocU conniy,Ga., and con- cluded with some veiy brief, but inicresiing ob- servalions of bis own, upon the subject ol Agriculture, and die Itesl means lor its imi>rove- rneiit. Tbe meeting was also favored wiib in- lercsiing addresses from (Jid. John 1. Hunter, Col. John G. Shorter, and 11. N. (Rawford. Esq Being the day afipoinied lor holding ihe Pair, proposed by the Society, and awarding pre- miums to the succe.ssliil compeiiiors, a com- mittee, consi ling ol Jtdin Oil) Shorter, Dr. A. P. CrawKml, M. Browder, A. MeUebee and Dr. Ttiornlon, was appointed to assist the Awarding Committee previously selecieil, in examining the domestic labrics ilien lying on the table, bcliire the meeting for exhibiti on— which commillce torihwilh [iroceeded to the di.scharge of the duties as.signed them— when were exhibited to the Society and citizens pre- sent, many very fine specimens ol the handi- work and industry of the ladies of Barbour couniy, conclusively proving that we need be dcpemlent on nolliing but our own industry lor the comforts and conveniences of life. There were cxhituicd specimens ol fitu Counterpanes, Cluilts and Comlorls, which were worthy of the highest commendation, and between them it was didicnit to discriminate. Other speci- iiicns, sueh as Jeans, Negro Cloth, both cotton and woollen, were e.\hibitcd, of the finest tex- ture and most dtirable material, reflecting great credit upon Ihe industry of those v ho had been engaged in their manuincture. Other ma e- rials, lor which premiums were nut ofTered, were presented, viz: a fine saddle, made by Mr. Penn, a workman in this place, and some line leather tanned by Mr. Caigile, at his yard, in this place, which the commillct considered wor- thy of premiums, anti consequently awarded ilicin. Alter the exhibition of the above noticed fa- 1)1 ics, the Society adjourned till after dinner, lor the purpose ol examining the Slock which had been brought for exhibition : 'I'he Society again met, agreeable toadjourn- mrnt, for the purpose ol bearing Ihe report of the Awarding Oommiitee, and electing officers lor Ihe ensuing year. The President in the Chair, the Committee then made the following Rei’okt : The committee appointed to award premiums at the Pair this day held, report the lollowing as the result ol their labors, buitakc occasion to re- mark that, in many instances, it was diflicull lo discriminate, which renilcred the duty imposed upon them, of an exceedingly unpleasant and embarra.ssing character, (as all deserved the highest praise for their elTorts in advancing the best interests of the country,) and tbs Commit- tee only regret that it wa.s net in their power to award a premium lo each one. They, howev- er, have discharged their duly to the best of their judgment, and submit the lollowing as the re- sult of their investigation: Horses. — The best stallion, Nathaniel Roach, .ftfi.OO; 2d be.st, Wm. T. De Witt,Sl Ott; best filly, Henry Tolson,^.00; best colt, Wm. T. De Wilt, Southern Cultivator; 2(1 best colt, Edward Battle, honors; best brood mare, T. Flournoy, $3 00; 2d best brood mare, Philip Causey, honors ; best mule coll, E.S.Oll, honors. Cflf/fc.-Uesi bull, R. C. Shorter, $3.00; ^ best bull. A- Ml IJ (Iiahl, aoiuliein I’laiiier; 3J best bull. Pc. C. Sti iricr, honors; best rnilth cow, W. '1'. Dc Witt, $:H)(); 2(1 best milcti cow, R. C. Shoriei, American Agrit uliiii isl ; fid best milch cow, R. (;, Slioricr, 'I'eimcssce Agricel- turist ; be.sl 2 year o'd lieiler, R. C. Sliorier, Soiilbvrn Planter; ‘id best two year old heilcr! A. McDotiald, lioiiois. Sioin't tioar, A. McDonald, Snii'hcrD Cultivator; 2 I liesi boar, Ridicii Maiiin, boriors; best Sow, liobeit Marlin, Altiany Cultivator. lisccllauf ou».— l]vb\ \,\oY/ , W. I’ournell, Tcnnr/.ssce Agriciiliuri I; 2d best plow, 3'hos. Gillen waters, hoiior.s; be.si lOyards negro cloth, Mr‘, M. A. Browder, Amciiean Agriciillui ist ; ‘2(1 be.sl 10 yard.s negro cloth, Mrs. Alex. Mc- Donald, bonor.s; l)e.>-i couriierpanc, Mrs. W, Archer, .$! 00; 21 be.‘t counterpane, .Mr.«. R, C). Dale, hotior.s; be.sl j‘atis, Mrs. M, A. Brow- der, $100; tiest domestic ginghams. Miss Parke, $1.00; best carpeting. Miss Paike, hon- or.s; besi Colton negro cloth, Mrs. A. McDon- ald, $1.00; lie.st quill, Mrs. J. C. Pope, $2 00; 2J he.sl quill, Mrs. J. G. Hhorler, $1.00 ; 3J best quilt, Mrs. P. M. Calloway, honors; best riearih rug, Mrs. P M. Calloway, 50 cents ; best saddle, Mr. Penn, $100; be^t leather, Thomas Cargile, Soullicrn Cultivator. A Iter Ibe reading of the above Report, the Society procueded to the election of idficers for the ensuing year, which resulted as follows : Dr. J, M. RAiFoni), President. M. A. BiiowDcn, 1st Vice-President. J. A. Cai.houn, 2d Vice-President. T. Fi.ouiiNoy, Treasurer. M. M. Gi.knn, Recording Sec’y. B. Gaud.ner, Corresponding fSec’y. A. M yANFORD, 'j J. H'-^nnard, I Executive ir T « I Coinmitiee. Li. 1 oi.soN, I W. S. Paui.in, j Alter which, the Society adjourned. Benj. Gardner, Secretary pro tera. From the TrniiiiiciioiiA of (lie N. V. Agricultural 2oc’f. Subsoil Culture. liji Jidin M iCdonitld—Presiilcrtt Wuth.ngton Couniy Agiiiulturul Svoii ty. The site of Salem, as all will remember who have visited that pretty village, in ihe eastern extreme of a plain that ex‘cnds some two miles south and west, with very gentle ui-dnlaiiuns ol surface, and may embrace near 3,000 acree. This plain is surrounded by hills, and consti- tutes the bottom of a very picturesque, naiural basin, that geologi.vt* conjecture was once filled with water by Black Cieek,lrom the north, and the Baltenkill Rom the cast, and was finally drained tlirough a gap in the hills, by which the “ Kill’’ flows w'estward to the Hud-ion. Not far from the centre ol this basin lies my farm — the surlace rolling — the more elevated portions, gravel — and the low glades, loam — all rc.sting on clay at diflercntdeplhs — approaching the surface, however, cnly in the loam. For 30 years prior lo 1834, it was occupied by two industrious tenants, who taxed its productive powers to their utmost capacity— sowing wheat while wheat would grow, and then covering it with rye, year after year, I found ihe tarm so exhausted that it was ex- ceedingly difficult to make grass seed catch wiiliout manure— and no wonder— for it did seem as il the gravel soil in some ol the easiest tilled, and iherelorc the most exhausted fields, had been leached, and little beside clean sand and gravel left, (The course of husbandry adopted, and by which I enjoy both pleasure and profit of seeing these gravel fields giving lair promise of returning ferliliiy, may, per- hap.s, be the subject ol a future communica- tion.) The foam <00, seems much impoverish- ed by constant tillage and succe.ssive annual cropping— but the mere exhaustion of the soil was not the worst of it; for in the lower glades there was not sufficient depth of soil for either grass or gram. The surlace of rich alluvial lauds, it is THE SOUTH I<:HN CUI/nVATOK. 183 known, iri;ty tjc so iin|j iverishcd by consttini tillajrt.* H rid se/cre croppin;', as lo l)(,'conie coin- paruiivcly barren, but they may be renovated by unusual defiifi l<» tiie furrow and bfin^iriy; up a portion of soil that has never been robbed of its native leriility. Hut in my case this could not be, (br the clay orrath^'rthe subsoil, composed of clay atid sand, it) many locations almost irrificrvions to water, atid altogether sterile, was Ibutiil at riepths of from four to cijrht iticfies from the surface, liere th m, were i wo dilJieullies — my soil lacked ieitili.y, and itfacked (|e[ ih. It was not only poor, but there was not enough of it. Its ft'riiliiy might be restored by manure, but Uie want of deptb was alveays fatal to tfie ctofi, in seasons either of drougbl or moisture. The great desideratum, then, was to increase the deptli of soil. This could not be done by deep plowing, with the common plow, or by the ase of I lie subsoil filow. The first of tfiese modes is liatde to two ob- cctions, both of great piactical importance. And 1st, In those fields where the depth of the Soil varies fn in lour to eight inches, a lur'ow ten inches deep and of the cotnmon v^idth, would require the [lower of two yoke of oxen — and any consjder.ihlc increase in the depth of furrow wijuld cmjiloy the addition of a tfiird team. 21. Under such culture the soil is fiu- ried d>'ep and ilie subsoil brought to the surface, presenting a clay-cold, paie face. 'Fhi; great am Hint of manure necessary to bring sueh land to at once— to give it the hue of health, and the vigor of fertility, 1 could not at all af- ford; and as illy could I avail the slow natural proce.ss of am dioration by the frost amt the snow of winter, and ttie showers and the sun- shine of summer. My interest required that I should adopt some plan less expensive tlian the one, and more expeditious than the other, I had long thought of the sub.soil plow as an implement adapted to rny' purpose; but not un- til the past winter did 1 resolve to lest theory by experiment, and givesubsoil culturea fair trial, deeply impressed with the belief that it steered clear of those insuperable objections that exist to the other mode, and that it was w ell ada[iled to eflecl rnyobjecl in the tnost perfect manner, and at the least [lossihle outlay, both of labor and manure. 'I’hal impression bas been deep- ened by experience and observation. At our late cattle show and fair, I exhibited my subsoil plow, and am satisfied, not only from the report of a committee, making grati- fying mention of it as a new and valuable itn- plement, and awardingme a premium, but also fro-ni the universal curiosity exeiled by iisexfii- bition, and the equally universal marvel “what it could be for,” that it may not be out of [dace here, briefly to describe it and the manner of its working. The subsoil plow is perhaps best described as “the cjinmon plow without a mold board,” and having in lieu of it, a cast iron [date four or five inches wide, fastened to the sliare, and running back (with its plane at rightangles to the plane of the landsides) lothe heel of the plow, when it is elevated about four inches, constituting an inclined plane, over which the clods broken up by the share pass, and in their progress are still more broken and displa- ced. The stilts most convenient, are those com- monly used with the side-hill pb^w. It does its work entirely belov/ the range of the soil plow, and at the bottom of the furrow made by it ; and in orrjinary culture a comn:ori pl»w is always employed at the same lime wiili the subsoiler. - First goes the soil plow, in the usual way, turning over its slice of soil, and just after it comes the subsoiler, working in tire bottom of the new made furrow, thoroughly diftlurbing and displacing but not inverling the hard sub- soil, to the depth (if required) of 14 inches, with No. ], and 18 or 20 with larger size.s oi the plow. Then comes the soil plow again, on ilssecond round, turning over its slice rd .soil — covering the work of the subsoiler, (not its fur- row, for it make# none,) and uncovering a new an 1 nntiriiken line ol subsoil lor the s.etiond round of the sub’-oiler. 'J’hus they altertiale, and ex(ierience satisfies me that lwoteams(one toeach [dow,) will do as much wiili rcs[)i cl to quar.tity, more with re.s[)cct to efficient and pro- fiiable ullage, tfiari ifiree similar teams can, with the common plow, it) the oilier mode. 'I'hns at leai-l :i third >0. 1 2.. .■E>ECK:V3S{ER, 1845. OUR FOURTH VOLUME. Patrons and Friends op the “Southern Cultivator !’’ — as Ihis number closes the Third Volume, the Publishers avail themselves of the occasion to address a few remarks to each and all of y^-'U, in reference to the Fourth Volunr’e, a Prospectus for which you will find on another page, to which we would invite your attention. 'We desire to continue with every one of you the relations of Patrons and Publishers, because ■we believe it will result in our mutual benefit. Whether those relations will be continued, de- pends entirely upon you. If you forward the money, we will most cheerfully and certainly send the paper. If not— not. So much for the effect of the cash system ! We not only desire to send the paper to all of you, but we wish to send it to all your friends and neighbors, that they too may be benefitted, and ourselves better rewarded. And we there- fore appeal to every one of you, to see your friends and neighbors, and persuade them to be- come subscribers. It will only require a few minutes’ conversation with each of them, and you may benefit them much, and ourselves a lit- tle. There is not one of you who cannot obtain for us, if you will try, at least one new subscri- ber, and many of you ive knov} can obtain hun- dreds. Will you not make the effort'? It is a good, a noble cause— one worthy to engage the best energies of the Philanthropist Patriot and Statesman. May you not then devote a little time and labor to such a cause? The price of subscription is so low that we cannot afford to send agents among you to solicit you to subscribe, and we must therefore rely upon the exertions of those of you who desire to see the work sustained. With these remarks, we commit the destinies of the “ Southern Cultivator” to your keeping. If you extend the circulation, it will be improved, and con- tinue to present new attractions for your appro- bation and benefit. To sura up, then, we want every man of you to send us a DOLLAR for your next year’s sub- scription, and ask your friends and neighbors to do the same thing; and if you send us enough of them, in addition to the many other good things that you will find in the fourth volume, we will send you some elegant engravings of splendid cattle, hogs, horses, sheep, &c, &c. As this No. completes our third volume, we send a general index herewith. Fruits and Fruit Trees. “ Here’s to thee, old App'e tree, [hlow: Whence thou may’st bud, and whence ihou may’st And whence ihou may’st bear for us apples enow, Hats full, and caps lull — Duihels and sacks full ! tiuzza! ’ Old Song. Dscembee is the best time, in the Southern Slates, for transplanting fruit trees; and as we believe more attention than heretofore is about to be given to this business, we have thought that directions for planting, together with lists of good sorts, might be acceptable to the readers of the Cultivator. We condense what follows, to bring it within the compass of our paper, from the best authorities extant, chiefly from Downing, adapting it, as much as por sible, to the use of the Southern Stales, by engrafting on it the results of our own experience, which has been somewhat extensive during the last ten years. In taking trees up, it should never be forgotten that the delicate and tender points of the roots, usually white and swollen, are the organs by which food is taken up from the soil for the nou- rishment of the tree. These should be preserv- ed as much as possible, the chance of perfect success being lessened by every one of these p Ants that is bruised or destroyed. Where it becomes necessary to cut large roots, the cut end should be made perfectly smooth with a sharp knife. Where the roots are gotten up without much injury, very little trimming of the top is necessary. If the trees cannot be planted immediately, they will be greatly benefitted by dipping the roots in water and rolling the wet roots in the soil, so that a coat of it shall ad- here to them, and then covering them with mats. Tliey should never be allowed to become dry. If the trees are to be carried to any great dis- tance, their roots should be carefully packed in wet moss. In planting, the almost universal hab tof the South, of looking upon a tree to be planted pret- ty much as on a fence post, and of treating it ac- cordingly, must be corrected. The whole of the ground intended for an orchard should be rich, except for peach trees, and should fee stirred, ei- ther by subsoiling or by trenching, to the depth of at least two feet. The holes for the trees should be dug out two feet deep at least, and four or five feet square, the subsoil removed, and its place supplied by surface soil, and with this filled up within as many inches of the top as will allow the tree to stand exactly as it stood in the nursery — the whole art consisting essentially in placing the roots as nearly as possible as they were before. Set the tree, and fill in among the roots with the soft surface soil, enriched, if neces- sary, with a mixture of charcoal dust, barn yard — not stable yard — manure, and slaked lime. Pour a tubful of water about the tree, and this will settle the earth far better among the roots than the usual practice of shaking the tree and treading the soil around it. Set a stake by the tree and tie the tree to it with a hay band, and finish by covering the ground for four or five feet around the tree with coarse straw, litter from the barn yard, cr leaves from the forest. The proper size of trees for transplanting is a very important matter. It is clearly settled by both^heory and practice, that health, vigor and duration are all best promoted by selecting small trees from three to six or seven feet high. Such trees planted as herein directed, make wood rapidly, and come very soon into a state of healthy and long continued productiveness. There is trouble in all this ! So there is. But what earthly enjoyment that is worth anything is to be had without trouble? Let any oneplant an orchard according to these directions, and. in a few years, if he take any pleasure in seeing the work of his hands prosper, he will not regret the trouble.his orchard has cost him — more especial- ly if he remember in the mean time that it is an indispensable requisite in all young orchards to keep the ground mellow and clean by cultivation for the first few years, until the trees are firmly established in the soil. We must not omit to remark that if any one intends to engage in fruit raising, either for con- sumption on his own table, or for the benefit of his stock, or for market, and wishes to have ^ooc? fruit and thrifty trees as the result of his labor, he must first of all make himself acquainted with theprinciples of Horticulture. The study of this branch ol science is a delightful recreation, and the application of its principles to practice, is still more delightful. For the theory, we beg leave to recommend — Lindley’s Outline of the Principles of Horti- culture. Lindiey’s Theory of Horticulture, by Down- ing. For the practice — Kenrick’s American Orchardist. Downing’s Fruits and Fruit Trees of America. APPLES. In the Southern States apple trees should be planted in a deep, damp, loose loam, of calcare- ous or limestone character, with a northern ex- posure. The rich alluvions of our rivers and creeks, not subject to be overflown, would fur- nish the very best location for apple orchards. Steep, rocky, north hill-sides, of strong soil, would be perhaps the next best. The distance of the trees apart should be at least lorty feet. And such sorts should be selected as are known to succeed in the neighborhood. For there is hardly any tree so local in its character as the ap- ple. The Baldw'in and Roxbury Russet s'ucceed well only in Massachusetts — Peck’s Pleasant and Seek-no farther, are best in Connecticut — the Spitzenburg and Newtown Pippins, in New York — the Beilfl jvver and the Rambo, in Penn- sylvania. English apples do not succeed well in the United States ; and American sorts planted in England loose their high flavor. In 1832 we brought from. Oiiio some very fine sorts — they are now growing in our grounds, but they have never answered our expectations, notwithstand- ing all our care of them. In the Northern and Middle States every neighborhood almost has its favorite varieties, which will not elsewhere come up to their high character at home. So too is it in the Southern States, with the exception of the Horse and Red June Apples. They fiourisheve- rywhere, we believe, with proper treatment. Hence we do not furnish a list of apples, but leave every one, as ensuring the best success, to make a selection of those that have been tried, and are therefore known to do well in his imme- diate neighborhood. Yet we ■would advise every one to set about getting a good apple orchard- net indeed for the reason assigned by Dr. John- son to one of his friends : — “ I know a clergy- man,” said he, “of small income, who brought up a family very reputably, which he chiefly fed on apple-dumplings.” That happened in Eng- THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 185 lind— but, thanks to the men of ’7G. no such hardship need befall anyone in this country — clergymen or laymen. We place our advice on thr ground of the exceeding great usefulness of the apple, on the table, in the kitchen, as an a - ticle of food for cows, horses and hogs, and as an article of commerce. PEARS. Formerly, the Pear was not very highly es- teemed. In its wild state it is extremely austen : and even the pear which has been removed only one step from savagedom— the choke pear — considered by many as the type of this sort of fruit, lays held of the m.outh and throat with a grip rather more severe than a green persimmon. And besides, the late bearing of most of the com- mon sorts had given rise to the saying : — *• ITe that plants pears, Plants for his heirs.” But within the last sixty years, through the ex- ertions of Van Moxs, Kxisht, and others, the pear has been so greatly improved, in all respects, as to be styled the queen of fruits in temperate latitudes. Van Hons devoted the whole of his life to the improvement of the pear; and, from 60,000 seedlings which he raised, he got a num- ber of varieties of high e.xce]lenca. Hr. Knight, by crossing, has added many others to the list of fine sorts; and some of the very best are the pro- duction of nature, having been found growing in hedges and meadows. In all, there are between SOOand 1,000 sorts that are esteemed good. But of all these, only about twenty are really first-rate. The best soil for the pear is a strong loam, of moderate depth, on a dry subsoil. If trees are wanted for an orchard, those graft- ed on pear stocks should be procured — for the garden, those on quince stocks should be prefer- ed, as they make dwarfs, and come into bearing very soon. We have had trees on quince stocks to bear when only about three feet high — and large crops have grown on those that were only about ten feet. In the orchard plant 30 feet apart —in the garden plant dwarfs, if Q,uenouille train- ing is intended, 6 feet ; otherwise, 10 feet apart. In gathering pears, it should be always remem- bered that most varieties are much finer in flavur, if picked from the tree, and ripened in the house. There are many varieties, Hr. Downing says, that are only second or third rate, when ripened on the tree, but have the highest and richest fla- vor if gathered at the proper time and allowed to become mellow in the house. Winter pears, however, require a somewhat different treat- ment. They should be allowed to hang on the tree till the nights become frosty, and when ga- thered they should be wrapped sepaiately in pa- per. packed in barrels, and put away in a cool room, until within about two weeks of the time when they usually beome mellow, then be brought into a warm room and be there allowed to mature perfectly. Class I. — Summer Pears. Bloodgocd, 'Bartleit, or Williams’ Bon Chretien, "Dearborn’s Seedling, Green Chisel, '"Jargonelle, Julienne, "Madeleine, "Ronsselet de Bheims, ‘Summer Franc Real. Class II. — Autumn Pears. Andrews, Althorpe Crassanne, Belle el Bonne, Beurre de Capianmont. 'Beurre Brown, ’Benrre Bose, 'Beurre Diel, Bergamot, Gansel’s, ‘Frederic de Wurlemburj ‘Golden Beurre ot Bilboa. Heathcot, Bacon’s Incomparable, ‘Louise Bonne de Jeisey, ‘Marie Louise, Napoleon, ‘St. Ghislain, Stevens’ Genesee, Seckel, ‘Surpasse .Marie Louise, 'Surpasse Virgaleau. Vail Mens Leon de Clerc, ‘ Washineton. . ‘Jaminelle, nr Josephine, Louise Bonne, ‘Passe Colmar. Vicar of Winkfield, or Cli- on, ‘Winter Nelis. Cnshiiig, ‘Dix, ‘Uonchesse d’Angnuleme, ‘Doyenne, White, or St Michaels, Flemish Beauty, Class III. — Winter Pears. Beurre d’.Aiemberg, Beurie Ranz, ‘Black Worcester, Bon Chretien Spanish, Columbia, ‘Chauinonlel, ‘Glout Morceau, Those pears in the preceding list marked thus (*) have bon.e fruit in our grounds, and they fully sustain here the character given to them by Hanning, Kenbick, Downing and others. And in this list are included those that are es- teemed to be the verv best in Europe and the U. States. They can all be purchased in Northern nurseries, at from 25 to 100 cents per tree, and can be safely sent to any part of the country. PEACHES. As we remarked on a former occasion, this fruit has been so much neglected in the South- ern States as to have become comparatively worthless. Even the brandy that is made ot it, compared with tvhat was made thirty years ago, is often little better than blue ruin or cockle- burr whiskey. It is, in reality, slowly falling back into its original poisonous character. No one who has tasted ’he fine sorts grown in New Jersey and Delaware, can ever afterwards rdish the miserable trash that is too often allowed to grow in Southern orchards. Even as food for hogs, it would be for every one’s interest to get good sorts and cultivate them carefully. Every body knows the kind of soil the peach tree grows best in— and every one knows that no tree is more easily propagated. From the stone in one year, trees may be raised large enough for budding. And every one may learn, in five mi- nutes, how to bud a peach tree, either from the books or from one who understands the process. Get good kinds and go to work, and in three years orchards may be had to any extent, that will be worth something. We add a list of kinds, about the high qualities of which there is no dis- pute. To praise them would be to “ gild refined gold.” But unless they are properly taken care of, it wnll be all labor thrown away. The ground should be plowed and kept clean, and the trees carefully pruned every year according to the system of shortening-in, that is, cutting off, in January, half the last year’s growth over the v/hole outside of the tree, and also upon the in- ner branches, cutting always close to a leaf-bad ; the object of this pruning being to diminish the crop o.ie-half, make every peach double the usual size, and of superior flavor, and furnish a large supply of s trong bearing wood for next year. Commercial gardeners usually sell peachtrees at about 25 cents each. Those marked (*) we have tried, and know to be good Class T. — Freestone Peaches with pale Jlesh. ‘Bellegarde or Red Magda- Late Admiiable, len, * . . _ . _ Brevoort’s Seedling Mel- ter, ‘Belle de Vitry, Early York, Early Newington, ‘Early Admirable, George the Fourth, 'Grosse Mignonne, Class II. — Freestone Peaches with deep yellow Jlcsh. Abricotee, or Yellow Ad-: Crawford’s Late Maloco- ‘Morris’ Red Rareripe, ‘Morris’ White do., ‘Moirisaiiia Pound, Malta, ‘Noblesse, Oldmixon, Roy,al George, ‘Red Rareripe, 'Snow, or White Blossom. mirable, ‘Crawford’s Early Maloco- ton, ‘Columbia, or Pace, ton, ‘Red Cheek Malocofon, Yellow Alberge, Yellow Rareripe. Class III. — Paries, or Clingstone Peaches. ‘Blood Clingstone, ‘Catharine, ‘Heaih, or “White Eng- lish” of our orchards, ‘Incomparable Admirable, ‘Lemon Clingstone, Late Yellow Alberge, Oldmixon, Old Newington, Pavie de Pompone, Tippecanoe. PLUHS. The pl'im is one of the hardiest of fruit trees, and requires not near so much care in the calti- v.ttion as the apple, pear and peach. It succeeds best when planted in a heavy loam, or in a soil c jntaining a large proportion of day. Where the soil is sandy it should be thoroughly mixed with clay, and enriched with swamp muck. Mr. Downing says he has found common salt to be one of the best fertilizers for the plum. The most successful plum grower in his neighbor- hood, he says, applies, w ith the best results, half a peck of coarse salt to the surface of the ground under each bearing tree, annually, about the first of April. Grafted on seedling stocks of the common Chickasaw’ plum of our fields, under the sur- face of the ground, it makes a beautiful dwarf tree for the garden, comes very soon into bear- ing, and produces very large crops of very fine fruit. The most effectual protection against the at- tacks of the curculio is to catch and kill the in- sect. About a week after the trees are out of blossom, commence the war. Every evening for about a month, spread a white cloth under the tree, then jar the tree by striking the body of it with the hand. The curculio will double him- seli up and fall on the cloth as if dead, appearing very much like a dead bud of the tree. On close examination he is leadily distinguished from the buds that fall with him, and may be caught and crushed. Of all the methods recommended that we have tried, and we have tried the most cf them, this is, by far, the most effectual. In the following list, those marked thus (*) have fruited in our garden, and we know them to be good. Cla-s I. — Green, Buel’s Favorite., ’'Bingham, *Coe’s Golden Drop, Dana’s Yellow Gage, ’’Green Gage, *HuIing’s Superb, *lmperial Gage, White or Yellow Plums. ] Jefferson, j*Large Green Drying, I' ashinglon, Bolmet’s, |*While Magnum Bonum, Prince’s Yellow Gage, 'Semiana. Class II. — Red, Plueor *Brevoort’s Purple Bolmer. Blue Imperatrice, Cooper’s Large Red, Colombian Gage, *Dariison, Common, *Dnane’s Purple, Diamond, Elfrey. Frost Gage, *Horse Plum, Purple Plums. ’‘’Italian Damask, *Orleaiis, Smith’s, •^Purple Gage, cr Reine Claude Violette, ’’Quetsche, or German Prune, Red Magnum Bonum, Royale Hative, ’‘Sharp’s Emperor. The usual price of plum trees in the commer- cial gardens is from 50 to 100 cents per tree. There may s'.ill be remaining in the land some few persons w’ho may look upon all this fuss about fruit, as the veriest nonsense— utterly and immeasurably beneath the notice of men wdio plant cotton. If there be, w’e have only to re- quest that they hold their peace until they shall have seen the next number of the Cultivatob, and read therein an account of the recent cele- bration of the anniversary of the Massachusetts HorticultuEiil Society, at which Mr. Webster, Mr. Everett, Mr. Wilbur, Mr. Chapoian, Mr. Choules an:iothe s made speeches, investing the whole subject with an interest and a charm 186 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR, never dreamed of by those all of whose ideas nbotat fruit -are associated with hog-plums, choikc-pears a'nd erab-apples. The Cash System. The beauty ol tl e credit system, when applied to the publishing business, is made strikingly manliest, by the case of the Democratic /review. That work has now due to it, according to a statement recently published, on account of sub- scriptions, the sum ol ^40,000, VV e have the authority of the New liork Farm r and Me- chanic,^’ for this fact. When Mr. J B. Hines purchased the Geor- gia Journal of Mr. S. Graxtland, the debts due that paper for subscription and advertising, were estimated to amount to about S60,000. Of this large sum there never was collected, aceord- ing to present recollection, more than between three to tour thousand dollars. Would not the publishers and proprietors ol the Cultivator, with the knowledge ol these facts, be doing a very fine business indeed, to abandon the cash system, and encounter losses such as those above stated, merely to please some lew persons, who, because they cannot get credit for a year’s subscription, choose to fall out with the paper and every body connected with it ? All our e.xperience is in favor of a steady ad- herence to the cash system in the publication of this paper. This number closes the 3J volume. Our contract with our subscribers has been com- plied with fully. E very one wishing to get a copy of the 4lh volume, will oblige us by send- ing his order for it, accompanied with the cash, without delay, as it is very desirable to know before the first ol January how man}’’ copies will probably be wanted. Southern Dependence. Surely the severe scoring our Southerners get on every side, will, in the end, enable us to head our articles, “ Southern J/idependence,” instead of riependence. Among others, Mr. Solon Ro- binson t kes liberties with t;s, and our system ol economy, as in the quotation below. Mr. R. lives in Indiana, but spent the last Winter in Mississippi; and has written, and published in the Albany CuUivalor, his “ Notes of Travel in the Southwest.” His advice is in exact con- formity w'iih ours, given in almost every number ol our Cultivator. We trust it will be the more heeded, as Mr. R. lives in a region which derives very great profit from our Southern habit of buying what we ought to make at home. ‘‘There are a good many other things,” he says, “ that Southerners might learn economy in. And one ol the first things to learn is, that out of their own staple we furnish them almost every manufactured article, for which they pay us for carrying the raw material from the gin and press we built for them, done up in our bag- ging and rope, and sewed with our twine and needles, drawn upon our wagons by our horses, in our harness, over roads made with our plows and hoes and spades, to our steamboats, and upon that to our ships ; not forgetting to let our Commission Merchants have a good share of the "skinnage;” and then, alter manutaciuring, to return it In the same way to e.xchange lor more raw materials ; by all which means we constantly keep a raw spot in your feelings ; but it is not yet sufficiently “ galled” to teach you to become home manufacturers— o'a\y healing salve that you will ever find to cure the lesteiing sore of “ such low prices for cotton that plan- ters cannot live by it.” Would you adopt a more prosperous course? Gluit planting, as you understand if, and become farmers, as we understand it— raise upon your farm, as lar as possible, every thing that you eat, drink, wear, and use, and never buy an article of cotton goods, except it is of home manufacture — that is, manufactured in the country where the raw material grows — and never bale your cotton in any thing hut cotton baling, made from cotton not worth sending to market in any other shape. Get up and keep up agricultural associations, and give premiums to that farmer that shall come the nearest to raising every thing he con- sumes, and to him who will exhibit the greatest proportion of his Negroes clothed in plantation manufacture throughout — and above all things else, read and support agricultural papers.” English Farming. In looking over oui agricultural exchanges, we noticed the following statement of the ex- pense of cultivating an acre of ground in Irish potatoes, in England. Rent $24 Taxes I Manure 24 Plowing 3 Seed 10 Plaining 7 Hoeing or Plowing 3 Digging the crop 7 Total Expenditure on one acre $79 The result is about 400 bushels at 38 cents. . . 152 Proh>. .$73 Sometimes the crop will .sell lor more, and rents, taxes and labor may vary, yet the state- ment shows what may be considered a fair average. Near London, however, the item of rent is very much higher. Mr. Colman says land is usually rented there for about $100 per acre, lor producing potatoes lor the London markets. Of the market gardens near London the in- come per acre is very large. Mr. Colman men- tions one case as quite worthy of remark. The actual sales from if, in one year, were — Radishe.s £10 Cauliflowers 60 Cabbages 30 Celery, 1st crop 50 do 2d do 40 Endive 30 £220 Or about SI, 100, for the gross income from the produce of one acre of vround in 12 months. Mibsoil Plows. Mr, Churchill, of Athens, brought from Boston this fall, some subsoil plow.^. They were sold very soon after they were unpacked at his store, and there is a demand for more. This we fake to be pretty good evidence that some converts have been made — either by our preaching, or the preaching of somebody else. We intend to consider them ours, any how, un- til some better claim shall make its appearance. Railroads. The way railroads use up Northern towns, is admirably illustrated in ibe case of Fitchburg. May not a like fate be in store for Augusta, Co- lumbia, Macon, Athens, and other towns in the South? Fitchburg, says a Northern paper, since the completion of the ra'lroad from Boston, has grown very rapidly. The Crocker Company are erecting a large cotton mill to cost S200.000. There are three manufactories of woollen goods, at two of which a very good article of broadcloths and cassimeres is made ; the other is devoted to the manufacture of negro cloths. There are three scythe factories in operation, three paper mills, and saw mills, grist mills, &c. in abundance. Alvah Crocker, Esq. is erecting a brick building, two hundred feet long, between thirty and forty feet wide, and four stories high, for a railroad car manufactory, to be occupied by Davenport and Bridge?, of Cambridgeport. Messrs. Clark and Blackburn are building a factory of granite and brick, one hundred feet long by forty-six wide, and four stories high, for cotton goods; and Messrs. A. P. Kimball & Co. are building a scythe factory of granite, one hundred by forty feet ; all of which are on the Nashua, and when finished will give employment to a large number of hands. There Is a spacious brick hotel now building and nearly finished, in the immediate vicinity of the railroad depot. How to Get Rich. About eight years ago, says Mr. Beecheh, Ed- itor of the Indiana Farmer and Gardener, a raw Dutchman, whose only English was a good- natured yes to every possible question, got em- ployment here as a stable man. His wages were six dollars and board; that was thirty-six dollars in six months, for not one cent did he spend. He washed his own shirt and stockings, mended and patched his own breeches, paid for his tobacco by some odd jobs, and laid by his wages. The next six months, being now able to talk good English, he obtained eight dollars a month, and at the end of six months more had forty- eight dollars, ma- king in all for the year eighty-four dollars. The second year by varying his employment — sawing wood in winter, working for the corporation in summer, making garden in spring — he laid by one hundred dollars, and the third year one hundred and twenty-five dollars, making in three years ihr.ee hundred and nine dollars. With this he bought eighty acres of land. It was as wild as when the deer fl^d over it, and the Indian pursued him. How should he get a living while clearing it. Thus he did it: He hires a man to clear and fence ten a erss. He himself remains in town to earn the money to pay for the clearing. Behold him ! alreadyrisen a degree — he is an em- ployer! In two years time he has twenty acres well cleared, a log house and stable, and money enough to buy stock and tools. He now rises another step in the world, for he gels married, and with his amply built, broad-faced, good natured wife, he gives up the town and is a regular farmer. In Germany he owned nothing and never could; his wages weie nominal, his diet chiefly vegeta- ble, and his prospect was that he would be obliged to labor a? a meniai for life, barely earning a sub- sistence, and not leavingenough to bury him. In five years he has become the owner in fee simple of a good farm, with comfortable fixtures, a pros- pect of rural wealth, an independent life, and, by THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 187 the blessing cf Heaven and his w ife, nl an endless posteiity. Two words ttll the whole story — in- dustry and economy. These two words wi;l make any man rich in the West. Southern Independence. It g'ves us real pleasure to be able to copy such articles as that which follow-s. We find it in the Greenville (South Carolina) paper. Blay we not hope that this is the beginning of a new state of thingsin the Southern States? “ We presume it is not generally known that a Corn Broom Manufactory has been in successful operation at this place, (Greenville, South Caro- lina,) uluring the past year — such, however, is the fact, and it is probably the only one south of the Potomac. The establishment is owmed and under the di'-ection of Dr. Crittenden, who manufac- tured five or si.x hundred splendid Brooms last season — equal to any made in the United States for strength and beauty of finish. He raises the corn, and turns the handies from timber obtained on his farm-. We are informed that these Brooms will be furnished, wholesale or retail, as cheap as a similar article can be delivered in any of the Southern cities. They can be had at the Store of Hastieand Nicol, in this town, and probably at other places. A sample can also be seen at this office. *' Dr. C. made preparations for extending the business next year, but the drought of the past Summer almost entirely cut offhiscrop of Broom Corn; he has raised sufficient, however, to make about 1000 Brooms. Success attend all similar enterprises, say we.” Speed the Plow. Things are sure to be going right in any coun- try, where people take an interest in such exhibi- tions as that described in the following paragraph, which we find in the National In'dligencer. ” At the Newcastle County (Delaware) Agri- culture exhibition last month, there was a spi- rited plowing match for boys under sixteen years of age. It is thus described: Now fol- lowed the second match, being entries for boys under sixteen years of age ; eight of whom en- tered. Their performance was indeed surprising. The fi' St premium was won by a lad by the name of Janvier; the son, as I understood, of a poor widow woman; and when asked whether he would have a piece ot plate or its value in money, replied he would take the money; “ he wanted it for hi.s mother.” The second was won by master George Jackson, a boy of ten years old, (a son of Mr. Bryan Jackson, a large farmer,) and thought small of his age. The clearing up furrow of this lad exceeded any effort I ever saw of the kind by a boy. In addition to the second premium, Blr. Pedder presented to him, through a member of the committee, as coming from the We srs. Prouty, whose plow he held, a beautiful little watch, with chain, key, &c., and the possession otit seemed to gratify the little fellow much; nor was it scarcely less gratifying, apparently, to the numerou.s spectators, who all voted him the Ge- neral Tom Thumb of the plowing ground.” To CURE A Stifled Horse. — Take one gal- lon of urine, and put therein a small handful of junk tobacco, boil down to one quart; then add two ounces of the oil of spike, one ounce of the oil of amber, two spoonsful of spirits of tur- pentine, and two spoonsful of honey. Put it into a jug, and cork it tight for use. Proerss of Applicatvm. — Rub the stifle bone hard withthe mixtur? fifteen ortwenty minutes; then dry it in thoroughly with a red hot fire shovel, then ride the horse forth and back one hundred rods. Repeat the above two or three times, and the cure will be effected. — Correspon- dent American Agriculturist. Several silk rai.sers Rom the North and East, have gone to Virginia, where they anticipate doing well. There are eight silk factories in the town of Mansffeld, Cl., and all the work.s conlinueto increase. ©rigiixal Cammunicalions. Proposed P.aii of a General State Society. M R. Camak:— It is evident that Georgia ei- ther absolutely, or in comparison with other Stales, possesses vast resources of wealth, and her ciiiz. ns are becoming sensible of the fact. •The old business of planting, alone, can no longer confine their views and effoils. Con- scious of w-ealth beyond, they are daily over- leaping this narrow boundary to attempt the de- velopment of other resources; bur, finding themselves in a new field, surrounde.d by new pursuits, with which they are unacquainted, and therefore unable to make a proper choice, they often engage at random, and no wonder their attempts are frequently awkward, misdi- rected, or unsuccessful. We have capital and labor in abundance, as well as material. The spirit of enterprise is already aroused. Give it proper direction and prosperity will result. Under these and other views, I offer the follow- ing proposition : Let a society be formed in Athens for the pur- pose of promoting the general interests of the Stale— call it by what name you please — lei it be regularly organiz d, and have its regular meetings, and make honorary or corre-sponding members of intelligent citizens in every partof the State. Let the- society examine all commu- nications made to it, and publish such as might be thought worthy of it. It should have a suit- able organ for this purpose. T ■ e Cultivator, enlarged, would, probably, be better than a se- parate magazine. Such a society might endeavor first, to im- prove every kind of business now pursued in the State; and secondly, to introduce such other pursuits as might be profitable, and to develope all resources not yet developed. The first would compjehend agriculture, mechanism, manufacturing, gardening, commerce, naviga- tion, the fine arts, &c. The labors ot this de- partment would fall to the share of the socie- ty proper, and especially to the Secretary, who should gat! er all valuable knowledge upon t' ese suhjec’s. Could not tie Legislature be induced to pay him an annual salary? In bringing out the dormant resources of the Stale the correspondirg members might be of use. They could give the society a topographical description of every neighborhood in Georgia — its soil, production, climate, mines, minerals, and timbers; stone, waters, water power, and everything else which might be useful. I be- lieve Georgia would become a great State if her domestic economy could be skilfully man- aged, and that this might be done by a suitable combination of talenL 1 hope this short draft will enable vou to understand me. Please give me your opinion on the plan, and oblige. Yours truly, T. Foster. Peavine, Walker Co., Ga., Sept. 30, 1815. Salting Food fi>r Stock. Mr. Camak I— 1 lately saw a publication, (cer- tain evidence of thought, and good feeling in the writer,) recommending as saving in feeding, cutting up straw, hay, shucks, &c., in this time of scarcity, which is certainly an economical modeol leeding where the quantity is so limit- ed. Permit me to add my experience in saving and making coarse food more nutritious, to the valuable mode recommended : If hay, straw, shucks, or tops, are cut for feeding, which can be done very easy and quick on the late improved straw cutters, it should be done in quantities that will fill, say two large hogsheads. Sprinkle the cut straw, we will now call if, witK a small quantity ot salt water, and then pack it into the hng.s!ieads by pounding it with a wooden pestle. In this state the salt will diffuse itself through the cut straw, so delicately, that it wilt be sweetened with the salt, making it palatable and more nutritious, and much more healthy to ihs animal. The hogsheads should be kept closely covered, and when the cut straw, hay or shucks, is taken out, it will have the flavor of new made hay or straw, delicious to the smell. In using two hogshead.', one should always be kepi full, to undergo the process ofdiffusion, w’hich takes some little lime. Care -hould be taken that not too much salt is applied, or the animals will not eat it. A very small quantity only i.= required. These who have observed even cut oats fed, have seen that the joints ot the straw are lelt by the animals, being too hard ; yet this part is the most nutritious part of the straw. Sprinkle the cut oats with salt and water and these joints are softened and sweetened, and will be eaten up with avidity. Horses or mules fed in this way will soon show the value of the sprinkling, by an impro- ved coat of hair; and as salt is the best vermi- fuge, they will be protected from destruction by the ravages of the bots. The planter should, in every operation as . much as possible, adc pt system. This would systemise feeding, essential to health, and con- sequenily strength, even in the human family . Respectfully. &c. R. Greenville, S. C., Oct. 24, 1845. Hides. Mr. Camak; -If you think the following worth publishing you are at liberty to do so. Aimosl every farmer (frequently other persons too,) has more or less hides to dispose of every year. Hitherto, they have generally taken bad care of them — many persons neglecting them altogether. The principal reason of this, I pre- sume, has been the want of a good market for them. Now every little saving to the farmer (the same is true of all of us,) is so much clear gain, especially if he can do it without neglect- ing other business, and with little or no incon- venience or expense. The demand lor hides is on the increase, and consequently the price must be better. A market is alme si at the door ot every man. As an instance, take Putnam county, where, a few years ago, there was no tannery; now it has six. And 1 have got d reason to believe that there is a great increase of tanneries in all parts of the State. Almost every farmer has from three to ten hides annually, some from thirty to filly. These hides are worth (if properly taken care of,) from 50 cents to S6 a f iece. Upon an average their price may be safely estimated at S2 each ; so that from this estimate you see that the farm- er’s hides are worth annually to him from 86 to SIOO. Notwilf standing this, you will scarcely find one tenth of the community wffio bestow pro- per attention on their hides. ’Tis true, some are alive to their interest on this subject — but how few ! The common . mode is to flay the beef and throw the hide on a fence rail, under a shelter or hen roost, or on top a negro cabin ; there it remains till the farmer wi.she.s his annual sup- ply of lesthei, or till he has leisure to. send to the tannery. By this time it is geaerally taint- ed, worm-eaten, or destroyed by the rats; it is then good for nothing — not worth tanning. Many persons have their hides tanned on shares, viz: give one half for tanning. When they bring such hides to be tanned, they expect to re- alize good leather from them ; but this is out of the question — they won’t make good leather, and t.he tanners are blamed for not rr^aking good leather out of bad hides. ’Tis this in- jurious exposure that has prevented many yards from tanning on shares. If good hides are always brought to the yards, good leather may be expected in return. Thus you see, by neglect, from $6 to SIGO is annually lost to tho farmer, in part or in whole. This is perhaps more than double his annua! lax. Perhaps not less than 2 or 8300,000 is lost to the Slate every year, in this one article alone. Is it not high time for us to economize ? How much better would it be to appropriate this amount to edu- catioflal purposes annually ? We buy largely 188 THE SOUTHERN CUI.TIVATOR. Northern shoes and leather, taking the proceeds of cotton to pay lor them. And that 1 may no good on a larger scale, let me speak a Inile more particularly to the wealthy farmer. You employ an overseer to attend to your business, and he perhaps cares nothing lor your hides. Now when you employ an overseer, let this be part ’of his business. Perhaps- that one item may cover one-lourth or one-half his wages. 1 am acriuainted with men who arc called neat farmers, and they make money too, and seem to have everything conducted in systematic style, yet they hardly ever realize anything from their hides. If the farmer has no better rule for preserving his hides, let him take mine : In the first place, always send your hides to the yard, while green, then you run no risk, and green hides generally make the best leather. You will realize more from the green hides than when ilry— .5 cents per pound for green hides is aboulequivaleni, to 12J cents for dry; but the tanners pay only 10 cents for the dry-mat is, dou.de the green price. But if not convenient to .‘^end to the yard when the hide is first taken off, sprinkle a little salt on the flesh side and fold it up, this side in, for two or three hours, for the salt to strike in, then hang it up smooth— ihd.i is, free from wrinkles— in some barn or out-house, keeping it out of the sun and rain all the time. When cured, sun them occas'onally and beat the worms out, if there be any. You may then have no lear of your hides. You must recollect another thing also: il you have timber to cut down, do it in the spring and sell the bark to the tanners, and your sap timber will then last nearly as long as the heart. Your sap timber is generally ruined by bark be- ing left on it, and also by cutting down at im- proper .sea.son3 of the year. Mr. Editor, I could have written more, but this communication is already two or three times as long as 1 expected, so you will excuse my prolixity. Very respectfully, J. II. Anoeuson. Salem, Ga., Oct. 20, 1845. Deep Plowing. Mii.Camak: — In June last, I went from this place to Augusta, and on my way saw the plant- ers, who were then threshing out their wheal, put up the straw in so careless a manner, that I saw they set little value on it. I spoke to Mr. Jones in Augusta about it. He requested me to write an article lor publication on the value of wheat as compared with fodder. I did so, and thought but little more of the subject. 1 lately was in Habersham county at the house of a gentleman, who I found patronized your in- valuable agricultural paper. I had not seen a number of it until then. I asked him if he had observed an article in that paper on the value of wheat straw. He told me. he had, and spoke in terrasol commendation on thediscovery. On my return, near Pendleton, in looking over the Pendleton Messenger of the 18th June, I read a communication extracted from your paper, by Williams Riilherlord, jr., of Cow- pens, Walton county, Ga., dated 2lst March, oti the subject ol deep plowing. 1 will give you an experiment made by me from necessity. The result was something similar. 1 had a field of thirteen acres, naturally very poor, (so much so, that the first natural produc- tion was a poor growth of sheep sorrel, a cer- tain indication of sterility,) which 1 intended to fiut in wheat. The summer was something ike the last, excessively dry. When the lime arrived that this field should be broken up, it was so hard a plow with two horses could not be got into the ground. Four horses were tiied without success. A coulter was tried with two horses but the draft was too great, and four horses enabled the plowman to break this field. The weather continued dry, and when it was time to sow the wheat, a piece of corn was ga- thered and that sown (no rain meanwhile;) the plows were then removed to the field plowed with the coulter, and it was discovered it plowed well. 'I’he wheat was sown ; no manure was afiplied. The wheat wlicn harvested was a ve- ry tolerable crop, (for such poor land, very good,) and there were many places liom 10 to 20 yards square covered wiih luxuriant clover. No seed could have been on the land, arul how it came to grow can only be solved by future e.xperimenis. 'I'he idea that s'riick me (which 1 would like to see investigated by some more scien tific ex- perimentalist,) is, that the plow having reached deep into the clay bottom, (the top soil was de- composed granite, or coarse gravel,) the clay attracted nitre from the atmosphere, and thus caused the growth (d clover, which it is believ- ed will only grow on lands cultivated lor some lime and manured. New lands will not pro duce clover if very rich. Another suggestion I will make, with the hope it may be subjected to scientific and che- mical research, which this experiment suggest- ed to me : By deep plowing at the season when the sun’s power is diminished from summer lieat, the earth then becomes warmer than the atmos- phere, and as there is attraction in heat, may we not suppose the nitrous particles floating in the atmosphere will be attracted by the greater warmth of the earth, and so poweifully aid in fertilizing the soil. From the accidental experi- ment ol myself and Mr. llutherlord, I hope j others will be disposed to examine the result ol similar experiments. With much respect, R. P. S. If I have time I will send some re- marks on irrigation, the result of my agricul- tural expeiimenls. All the upper part of South Carolina and Georgia is adiniiably adapted to improvement by irrigation, and hay may be made an article of exportto an immenscamounl. When one acre will produce one and a half tons ol hay at a cutting, at least, which can he cut and cured by one hand in two days, and at least two cutting's can be taken in one sum- mer, then corn will not be injured by pulling off the natural feeder, the blade, given by an All- w'ise Being to give it maturity. Greenville, S. C., Oct. 22, l845. Rot ill Sheep. Mr. Camatc Sir — Having promised some remarks upon the final cure ol that disastrous distemper commonly called the Rot, among our sheep ol the South, 1 now proceed to com- ply with my promose. Mr. Livingston, in the Farmer’s Cabinet, made some remarks upon the excretory duct o) the feet of sheep, that is worthy of the attention ol every wool-grower throughout the United States. But it is our du- ty to improve upon everv suggestion made by onr friynds; therefore, I shall o/Hr a lew re- marks upon the excretory duct. Twelve years past my father had a fine flock of young sheep, and as the sheep grew older they began to linger, and in fact, some did po- sitively dwindle away and die, and at the same time, I suppose, they had as good pastures to feed in as any farmer of Newton county. IVe knew very well that it was the rot, commonly so called by the Little River farmers, but the cause that produced that coughing disease was a inatier of great astonishment with us, as the sheep had fine pastures to run in, and were regu- larly salted. So we commenced examining, and we found out that the excretory duct was the grand cause. Well, we being determined to get rid ol our sheep, or that they should be re- lieved of this destructive disease or distemper, lor they were not worth anything ol conse- quence, and an experiment on them w'ould not be attended with much loss if we should lose the whole flock. Therefore, instead of bathing the feel in warm water, or of brushing the fis- sure ol the hoof, or ol probing the orifice, or ol pressing out the fluid, or of extracting the fluid alone, we resorted to the needle and knife, and extracted the whole aflfair. This is done by tak- ing a common sized sewing needle and a strong thread; press open the fissure of the hoof, and take up tlie point or inouih ol the duct with your needle, draw your thread through and take a sharp sinall-bla.ied knife and split the skin each side of the thread, commencing preci.sely at the thread on the top of the duct, lengthwajs the split cd the hoof. So soon as you have cut through the natural skin ol the hoot you will perceive, to your a.stonishrnerit, that the duct is, like the eye of the sheep, separate entirely from either .‘■kin or hoof, and only confined in the bottom of the fissure by a small thread or lube. And when you have cut this thread the pocket of poison will leave its den of secret disasteror destruction to the sheep. This was done to iny father’s flock about eleven or twelve years past, and il any ol the sheep have had the rotor cough since, 1 never heard of it. Bol, to the contrary^ they commenced thriving, arul instead of holding up their heads that they might breathe, they were able to pul them down to feed upon the grasses and herbs ol thfe fields; and instead ol standing or of lying and coughing their lives away, they were enabled to rest at ea.se in any position, and chew their cuds, and thrive upon the very food that once would poison and kill. My brother has operated upon a large flock for Mr. M, Gresham, of Stewart, the riresent year. We would like to hear the result on the pine woods sheep of Mr. Gresham. I will only remark that tho.se sheep that feed behind in the flock are the worst off, and wherefore?— be- cause the poison that the grass gathers from the ducts ol those sheep that feed before, is eaten by the latter. For it is my opinion that the way it is caught i:;, by eating the grass that hascaucht the poison from the duct of the leer. I could write this cominunicaii''n as much longer il time and circumstances would justify. It my brother farmers wish to know the philo- sophy in full of this communication, I will give it in a future number of your highly esteemed paper; for 1 believe that the reading ol your pa- per lor two years, that only cost me two dollars, has been already worth more to me thnn one hundred dollars, and I do say that I think any man is acting in the dark who attempts to carry on a farm without book farming. Thos. L, Middlebrooks. Newlon Co., Ga. Florida Coffee. •' For nt.u(;lit so vile that on lire earth doth live, I5nl to the earth some special good doth give.” Shokspeare. Mr. Camak: — Some seven or eight years past, I was in Georgia on business, and found an old friend ol mine engaged in raising w-hat he called Florida Coffee. He had procured some seed, and had sowed it in a lot, for distri- bution amongst his Irieuds. I happered to know more of this coffee, at the time, than he did, and advised him to destroy every plant and seed if lie could. Whether he followed my ad- vice or not I am unable to say. Now, sir, I have been for ten years-endeavor- ing to find out .some use for it, and not finding any, to destroy it — both in vain. It still flour- ishes in my best soil. If il would be contented to grow in old worn outfields, 1 could with some patience spare it ground. But it selects, uner- ringly, the best spots of soil whereon to fix and to grow, and will grow nowhere else. The seed will lie in the earth all winter and come up, from May to October, in successive crops as you kill it. If you cut it down with a scythe it will put up twice as thick from the stem, by lateral branches. If you pull up every stem, and before it seeds — it avails nothing — next year it will appear again. Nothing will eat it. The birds spurn its numerous seeds, which fall to the earth and remain as uninjured as if they were kept in a house. As I have seen no mention of ilin the Cultivator, I hope it has found no foothold in Georgia. Il it has, I hope some of your correspondents or subscribers will be so kind as to communicate whatever of good or evil their alchemy may have discover- ed of this rattle-weed, alias stink-weed, alias Florida Coffee, and oblige An Alibamun. THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 189 Cait a Horse Kcasou! The Editor of the Mobile Advertiser, whence we. take the followiiig curious arid arnU'iiig slateirieiits of Judge I’aylor, say.s they may be entirely relied on, and can be corroborated by the ti.sliinony of hundreds of the rnO'l reputable citizens of Mobile. My purpose is not to discuss the question at the head ot this article, but to submit some lacis for the speculation of those who may be curious in such matters. As you are aware, I own a horse called John, that lor several years has not only amused, but astonished the public, by his various feats of intelligence and sagacity. Everybody knows John ; and if he is seen, as he often is, in a buggy, and no one in it, walk- ing, trotting or galloping through the mo.st crowded streets, threading his way among car- nages andclrav-s, no citizen offers to stop him ; but if a stranger attempt it, he only excites a laugh, and is asked how long he has been in the city"? 1 have witnes.sed some amusing scenes of this kind, at the expense of some one’s grrorf inlcniions. It is proper I should state, that lor the last seven years, with the excefdioii of the past and present winters, I have resided about two and a half miles from the city. I generally come to town every day, about 11 or 13 o’clock. I fre- quently drive to town and back, without touch- ing the rein. If I come down St. Francis-street he is certain to stop at the VVaverly, without anything being said to him; and as soon as I . get out he wilfstart in a trot or gallop and stop at the Oorinihian. If 1 come down Dauphin- street, he will go directly to the posi-oHice, where he will stop until 1 get out, when he will wheel aeioss the street, and remain there, in his opinion, ?L rea.sonable time ; if he wants water . he will go to a pump, and from one to another, until he finds a friend to pump it for him, when he will return. John is also a general favorite. The "free- dom of the city” was longsince presented to him in a bugey ! He is therefore not confined to any particular street, but goes where he likes, in pursuit of me or his own amusement. He will sometimes go to Water-street, and then to Commerce, where, withexcellent te^eand judg- ment, he wilt sample bales of hay on the side- walk; but, unlike the cotton samplers, he was ' never known to fill a bag and carry it off on his back. He not only knows me from others, but can distinguish my voice from all others, as may be easily proved. H undreds of persons may pass him daily, without attracting from him any particular notice. If I come toward him when his head is turned from me, and hap- pen to be talking at the time, although from his tight check rein the motion may be difficult, and perhaps painful, he will turn his head round, resting it against his side, with his eye, which then exhibits a peculiar, tremulous motion, fix- ed on me, till I pass. If he then desires to go home, he will raise his head, point his ears, and start after me, stepping loftily, and keeping me , in view. Although a spirited animal, nothing ^“frightens him from his propriety;” in fact, he “dares do all that may become a”— Aorse.' It is a fact quite notorious, that he will go about athecityin pursuit of me ; it is equally so, that a'eiperiments have been made to induce him to Ifcleave me, by turning him up the street leading ^to the country; but after turning a block or two he would invariably come back. There are y.many instances ot gentlemen having driven .jjJ''*hira to their residences in different parts of the Sr city, and turned him loose to come back ; and ! am informed some bets have been pocketed on «uch performances. I had a standing bet for some years, that I would send him to the mar- ket, or the post-office, or any house or point that ^ might be designated, and that he would return safely with the buggy. No one doubted he would do it. But a few months since, I sent him from my house across the country to the Spring Hill road, and up that road a distance ot a mile, to the house of a friend, although he g- had not been there for more than a year. 1 have often sent him on errands of a similar character. I have only to go with him and •iliow him a place, and he never forgets it. He is perfectly under command of my voice. 1 speak lo liiuj as 1 would to a servant ; and that he understands many things I say to him, i.s proved by the tact tliat he obey.s me. In har- ness, or out of it, he follows me about like a eog. He stands in no tear of me, and has no cause; for although I may sometimes scold him, I have never struck him, as 1 b'. lieve, in the se- ven years and a lialf 1 have owned him. He therefore does nothing from fear, but everything from kindness. It is getting quite late— two or three o’clock — I must have gone up thes reet. He turns up Ifoyal-sireet, and stopping a short lime at the Literary Depot, and several other places, he goes to the VVaverly. There is no use in go- ing faiihcr in Uiis direction, lor he knows I sel- dom go above that point. He becomes uneasy; turns bar k, and goes down the street as far as the courthouse. He turns again, much exci- ted; hi.s ears thrown back, bis neck arched, his nostrils flattened, and starts in a fast trot. As he pa.sses the Mansion House, he is in a round giillop, wildly throwing his head from one side of the street to the other. It he sees me he will stop, or come up to me. 1 get into the carriage, ami without say ing a word to him or touching the rein, he takes up the first street leading to our home. Here is a narrow lane leading to llic gate, and to make a clean turn through it, it is necessary lo keep to the right, near the fence. John knows it, and slops at the proper point; 1 gel out, open the gate, and pass through. He wheels short round, desciibing a quarter circle, and sees all is right before him ; the gate is narrow, there being but five or six inches to spare, between the wheel and the post. John knows it, and in more than five hundred limes passing through that gate, he has not touched the post more than three or four times; but when he happens to do so, he will immediately back, sheet ofl of his own accord, and pass through, never failing in his second attempt. There are many instance.sof his having locked his wheels with other carriages whenendeavor- ing to get a good shade, and disengaging him- self in a similar manner, and which have been noticed by Gen. T. D. VV.arid others. But for the oddity of it, 1 certainly should not use either rein or bridle. In going to the city, or back, but especially at night, 1 would trust him sooner than a professed watchman. Not the slightest injury has ever occurred lo the carriage by any fault of his. But he has also a mode of communicating his wishes and want.s, by signs, looks, and actions, which are as perfectly comprehensible by me, as ifexprc.ssed in the plainc.st language spoken by man. H.'’ not only wsex a language lo ex- press his ideas, emotions, &c.. but be has clear- ly invented that language himself, as I think I shall prove. A portion of the year, the stable being left open for that purpose, John is allowed to come to the house and kitchen when he likes. About 12 o’clock one light night, I heard a hea- vy knocking at the kitchen door. The knock- ing continued so long and so loud, that I got up and went lo the window, when I found it was John creating the disturbance. His hind feel were on the ground, and his lore feet on the up- per slep. Lifting his foot, he would strike the point of his hoof against the door, ten or fifteen times, repeating it every few minutes. From many other feats of his sagacity, I was well con- vinced of his object. I called up the servant, and charged him with neglecting to feed the horse, but he stoutly denied the charge. It is certain 1 did not believe him. But the .same thing happened several times afterward.', and I had as often called up the servant, who still as- serted the horse had been fed. One day I hap- pened to hear the old negro talking to the ser- vants in the kitchen, laughing hoarlily, and re- peating, “ John won’t lie, and master knows it.” A laugh. “He believes John, and won’t be- lieve me.” Another laugh. “ I won’t tell any more lies about feeding John. It’s no use.” They all laugh, and I laugh ! When he wants water he will go to the well and knock against the cuib, or the water tub, in thesame manner. Of late years, the servant gets up at the earliest knocking, for lie knows that no sleep is to be liad on the premises until John’s demands are complied with. I often direct that he should not be fed in the morning, for ih'' purpose of in- ducing biiri to adopt some other me, hod of com- munii aiing his wishes. After cxhausiing his patience in his usual eflciis, he would come lo the house and wflk by the door, stepping ..short and quick, and wheeling abruptly round. After practising in ibis manner lor some time, he would give one of the queerest squeals 1 ever heard, as much resembling the yell of a Choc- law, as nnyihing else, although he can, if he likes, .squeal in veiy good English! In November last, Mr. H., of C,, who was at my bouse, desiied to witness someol John’s per- formances. After performing several feats I have related, and we had gone into the house, the servant came to rne and said John would not let her go into the kitchen. We went out on ifie gallery and saw that John had planted his heels directly opposite do the kitchen door, looking very savagely. I ordered the giil to drive him away, which she attempted to do with a slick. But no! John would not move an inch. With his head near the ground, his ears backed, stamping violently, and shaking his head, be bid defiance. A 11 this I knew was merely for effect. 1 knew be would not have injured the least of living things. I then told the girl to go to the well and draw him water. As soon as she sliirted in that direction, lie threw off his theatri- cal character and followed her, looking pleased and highly gratified at the success ot his inge- nious experiment. 1 will relate one feat of a different character. A year or two ago, when I came to ihe city one morning, I left John at a shop in Church-street to be shod, requesting the smith, after he had done so, to put the house in the buggy, and let him go; a practice I have pursued at that and other shops for several years. An hour or two after, I was standing on the side-walk, opposite to the Mansion House, when 1 saw John comingdown Govern- ment-street, and then up Royal, in a fast trot, slopping within a lew leet of me. He soon commenced stamping violently with his fore loot, which continued fur a minute or two. The West ward omnibus was standing some JO or 40 leet in front of liim. Walking up to it, be put his foot on the upper step, and com- menced biting it. After relieving himself of the fly — as I supposed it wa.s— he backed the buggy to hisold position. Although John Anew, and had his reason, why he went to the omni- bus, yet it is proper the /earner/ public should be informed, that as his check rein would notal- low his head to be brought down to bis fool, he went to the omnibus to bring up his foot to his head! Mr. P., then and now of this city, and a number of other gentlemen, were amused spec- tators of this performance. John is a northern horse, finely formed, and without a blemish ; and although in his twelfth I year, he has all the playfulness and elasticity of a colt. H. W. Taylor. Curious Clock. — The correspondent of the London Morning Chronicle, who accompianied the retinue of Gueen Victoria, on her late lour to Germany, in giving an account of the various curiosities in the Museum in the palace of Frie- denstein, gives the following account of a clock of very singular construction; “In another chamber there is a very elaborate and strange piece of clock machinery, combined with an or- rey, which keeps time with the celestial bodies. The different dials of the clock tell seconds, mi- nutes, hours, days, weeks, months, years, centu- ries, and thousands of years. There was .some- thing curious in looking at a needle constructed to move one inch every thousand years. I could not help thinking it satirically emblematic of German activity ; but if it is slow it is sure, and so are my friends on this side of the Rhine. The ingenious piece of mechanism in question was constructed about a century ago, by a prie.st, whose name, I believe, is lo.st.” J90 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. Experimental Farming* From the Southern Reformer. Col. W. M. Srhth— S'tr;-The great object 1 have had in view Irom the very com- inencetnent of my writings for the public, was to induce my brother farmers to reflect more on their business, and thus insure the improve- ment not only of our soil, but of the mind, I am fully aware that many have thought, and indeed said, that my highest aim w^as to induce farmers to purchase improved stock, whereby I could realise money. This is an error, and were not such things so common, 1 w'ould much regret my being suspected; as it is, I blame no one, feeling assured that my perseverance in the good cause will induce some to regret hav- ing attributed to me sordid motives, and others to forget having thought it. One w’ho is sin- cerely desirous to teach, will adopt the course that he thinks will lead to the end the surest and readiest, I, believing that the feasibility of im- provement could be showm by taking hold of stock, used it as a means of proving that we had not arrived at the ultima thule of perfection. And f still hold the same opinions that I did, that improved stock will pay better for keep than others; this is even now denied by many — they honestly believing that the corn-crib is the only improvement. WhilstI will admit thelull ben- efit of the cross on the corn-crib, yet I deny in toto, that the corn-crib will make a racer out of the Indian lackey, or a four or five hundred pound hog out of the pure native breed of hogs. I furthermore contend, that the mass^ of the farming community do thoroughly believe in another sort of cross, and that having seen this, they are willing to admit that our crops of cot- ton, corn, &c. can be improved. The great drawback on a more rapid improvement in farming matters generally, arises from too much dependence on experience. This thing expe- rience is a capital thing in its way, but to place so implicit reliance on it will cramp the ener- gies of the strongest mind, and clog the wheels of improvement. We will take as an illustra- tion, corn, which every farmer knows so well how to cultivate, and try not only to show up to our practical, hard-working farmers their error, but explain my meaning. Farmers who have cultivated corn for fifty or sixty years, claim experience by right, 1 ask, is it experience as it should be 1 They have planted one variety of born, and cultivated it one wmy; they have made 20 to 30, or may be 50 bushels of corn from an acre. Of course their mode of culti- vation is best; and why 7 because they have tried no other. Tell them to plow deeper, plant closer, cultivate shallow and lay by early ; they answer, our ‘‘ climate will not suit close plant- ing.” How do they know? Oh! they have left three or four stalks in a hill and made no- thing ; but “ mark well”— theymerely scratched the earth before planting, and plowed the corn to death after it was growing ; and yet they claim experience. Let them boldly launch forth into the broad sea of experiment, unbiassed by the trammels of their own peculiar system, or that of their fathers, and they will soon find out they have not yet arrived at perfection, even in corn planting. My friend and kinsman, A. K. Montgomery, having brushed away the cob- webs of experience, tried this season what a different way of managing corn wmuld do. He never saw corn planted thus and was taught to believe it would not do ; but the result, 98 bu- shels per acre, with a firm conviction that he can make 120. Prudently, as all farmers should be, he only tried some two acres, but it being along side of his crop, and cultivated at the same time, he is well enough satisfied to try it again. To satisfy inquiry, his mode was this: He scattered some 400 or 500 bushels of cot- ton seed per ace, plowed about five inches deep, laid off rows about 2h feet apart, drilled corn and covered — thinned out to as near one foot as he could, plowed once, and flat-weeded with hoe twice, I think. The adjoining corn was cultivated as usual, and though rather more on an acre than he generallv leaves as a stand, as it was planted one foot nearer, yet it will not yield much over 40 bushels. The plan to have succeeded best would have been, to have plow- ed 6 or 8 inches deep, scattered his cotton seed aboul-350 bushels per acre, cross-pknved shal- low, then marked off rows, scattered about 50 to 100 bushels in the drill and dropped his seed. The alter culture should have been without a plow at all, relying on harrow, or cultivators, or sweeps. He used the manure because it was at the spot, used too much of that kind for the season, and no doubt injured it by this healing manure. As it was dry at the lime of filling, and the stand not regular, he made not as much as might have been made. 1 now ask, is the experience of this gentleman worth anything 7 Of course not, as it militates against pre-con- conceived notions, and cost too much. This latter argument is weightless, for we know that the land will be benefilled for four or five years. There was too much manure used, and even as it stands, one acre has produced about the ave- rage yield of three ; therefore, twm hands couh have been spared to gather manure, 1 say thal experience is a capital thing in its way; and when a man has fairly tried the different plans, for a time sufficient, then should it weigh, and not without. Farmers have an awful dread of theory and experiments, when appertaining to their own business, and which can be kept un- der their own control; but let them launch forth their bark on the tide of politics, or some other fantastic notion, and you cannot keep them from being controlled by the one, nor from blind- ly following the other. I think every farmer should be an experimenter, and he should ma- turely reflect before he commences; thus theo- rise, but not spend his income at the one, nor his whole time at ihe other. By way of illus- tration again, and to give a practical lesson too: I had heard many argue on the advantage of covering corn deep, and reflecting on it I came to the conclusion that it was wrong; I had ex- amined many stalks, and found invariably one thing — the root had put out from the grain or its shoot near the surface. I, therefore, in the month of June, planted in garden movM several hills of corn, at depths varying from one inch to six inches : mark! under the most favorable circum-stances — in June and in my garden. I used a mathematical scale, was particular to an eighth of an inch, and not one grain showed itself above ground that was planted over four inches deep — in fact, the deepest planted that made its appearance was three inches. This was only one experiment ; a dozen should have been tried. 1 tried wheat dibbled about 2 to 4 inches deep; not one in an hundred ever vegeta- ted to be seen, whilst that which was drilled half, or three quarters to one inch, vegetated well. These experiments occupied an hour or so of my time, cost nothing, and when fully completed, will satisfy myself at least. All that I ask of my readers and friends, is to exa- mine well and to be prudent in trying experi- ments, and I make no question but they will find pleasure and profit therein. I would urge on every farmer and planter — aye, on the di- vine, the lawyer, the doctor, the merchant, me- chanic and all, to subscribe to a farming and scientific periodical; they will soon acquire a fondness for the reading'; and being innocent, profitable and pleasing in their bearings, can- not possibly do injury. They need not be run away with it ; let that be left to hot-headed, im- pulsive, soft people ; but let them read to reflect and to profit. This good will result at least, it will give to the younger folk a thirst after know- ledge that will be innoxious in itself, and tend to draw them from sinful amu-sements. The expansion of the mind on any subject will of course have its advantages in any situation of life. It is the class of men who have felt this generous impulse, who are selected for the high- er w'alks in life, as well as patterns for imita- tion. I would, therefore, press on parents, guardians, teachers, &c., to encourage the read- ing of agricultural works; andl presume there is ho one who has more brains than fatty mat- ter within his pericranium, will object to the ^ policy. Yours truly, M. W. Thilips. Log Hall, Hinds Co., JVhss., Aug. 25, 1845. 'Mb The proper application of Manures to Land. a| From the Valley Farmer. 3® A few practical observations, I trust, will not prove unacceptable to most of your readers, ;iiS! when we consider the great importance of thelW subject, and how much the productiveness of oursoil thereupon depends. It is well known that the greater diversity of opinion exists as to the “ modus operandi” and ' time of applying manure. Some, on the one •• hand, contending that it should undergo tho- rongli fermentation, and become enii-ely rotted. ' - Others, again, think that it shonld be applied ’ fresh, and that fermentation should take place after naving been applied. Again, there is the same difference of opin- . ' ion as to the manner in which it should be ap- plied. Some contending that it is most benefi- cial and durable to have it plowed under as soon as spread : others preferring it applied to the surface in the form of a “ top dressing.” The simple inquiry then rests upon this: By which mode of application does the same a- 5 mount of manure act most beneficially? ^ I have carefully examined the various opin- « ions, and have been led to the following results % from experience, the best of teachers, that ma- u nure should be applied to lands in an unfer- ffl mented slate, and that upon the surface, and at .jH as early a period as possible in the spring. 1 w have derived the greatest advani^age from the .j| simple application of dry and unrotted straw, ^ to my thin knolls, while the land was lying to ^ gra.ss, thereby protecting them from the scorch* 9 ing rays of a summer sun ; and wherever thus 9 applied, the land appears to be renovated and 9 moist, and in fallowing it, I invariably find it J mellow and loose. Now, the question arises, 9 does the mere.covering of the land increase its fertility. And how can it be accounted lor if J it is not simply because evaporation cannot 9 take place; and is it not by evaporation, toge- ^ ther with frequent tillage and exhausting crops, that land once fertile, becomes barren 7 Now, our main object should be to prevent each and all of these different effects and results. In ap- plying our manure to the surface, we give to the land a shelter and protection, thereby pre- ^ venting evaporation irom the surface of the j soil, and-at the same time, the rain acting di- j reel upon the manure thus applied, carries the ^ dissolved substances no deeper than the roots of 'j most of our plants generally grow' ; and there j these substances remain held by the chemical j affinity of the earth, until the roots of the plants j by a still stronger attraction act upon them. Again, it is a conceded fact that the fertilizing 'ij substances of manure are only soluble in water, / and w'ill remain uninjured themselves and use- less to plants, until that solution begins, whe- ther they be applied as a top dressing or plowed - under. Now this solution can only take place by the application of water to the manure, and ^ when thus applied in the form of rain, it is ta- ken up by the subjacent soil, and there held by gravitation, until it is received by the minute mouths of the plants, which can only receive it in a state of dissolution by w-ater. J Nature always manures the soil by applica- } tion to the surface, and then relying on the rains ' to carry down the decomposed solution to the' roots ol the plants. She has taught us a useful 4 lesson in the application of leaves, as applied to the forest, and notwithstanding the immense ^ growth of timber, that our lands produce and sustain, they are still by this extremely small " annual return, not only kept from barrenness, but in most cases they are in a progressive state of improvement. What a lesson we are to de- 7/ live from this example 7 Protection from heat and the drying winds, with a proper distribution of manure to the soil, are all that is required to produce large crops and a progressive fertility, h Again, in applying our manures upon the £ surface, we do not prevent that proper compact- a THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 191 ness of the earth, in order that it may the more readily withstand the powerful effect of Ion? continued drought.?. But when incorporated into the soil, it renders it light and spongy and the roots ol the plants do not enter into that so- lidity with the earth as to be thus enabled in withstand its scorching effects. But when ap- plied to the surface acts as a renovator and a protection to the tender roots, thereby retaining moisture, by preventing evaporation. I still further contend that by applyingthe un- ferraented manure to the surface early in the spring, that the decomposition is more gradual, and that the different elements it contains are evolved more gradually, and the volatile pans are absorbed as rapidly as yielded by the grow- ing crops, / It is again urged that the carbonic acid gas, so necessary for the full developement of the leaves of the plants, is lost by the application to the surface. Now, carbonic acid gas is heavier than at- mospheric air, and by its specific gravity is confined to the surface until it is distributed in the surrounding atmosphere, and where it di- rectly comes in immediate contact with the plant in its earliest-stage. Nor is it thus lost, for it is driven off in such small quantities, by the very gradual fermentation and decomposi- tion, that it is much more lasting in its effects upon vegetation and of much longer duration. Whereas, on the other hand, if speedy decom- position takes place, the carbonic acid gas is driven off much sooner, and there is an excess over and above the quantity required by the plant which must of course be diffused in the * surrounding atmosphere. For it is well known ■' that but a very small quantity is required by the plant; for plants exposed to a superabundance of carbonic acid gas will survive but a short time, t The same rule will apply equally well as re- ' gards ammonia which also escapes from ma- nure during fermentation. But it is very obvl- ' ous that manure will generate ammonia with- I out the heat and moisture, and that heat by which ammonia is sent off in such quantities |i as is perceptible to the eye, on visiting a stable j! yard early in the morning, is thus prevented, by I decreasing the bulk and exposing a larger sur- i' face to the action of the atmosphere. These are my practical opinions and reasons as to the proper manner and mode of applying manure. ; I am full}’^ aware that I differ very materially ! from the great body of farmers ; and I have been thus induced to give my views in full, hoping to induce others to point out the fallacy of my • mode, if there be any; for it is by repeated ex- periments and close observation that we are I best enabled to apply general principals to any I particular practice ; it is by silting the opinions I of each other with freedom and respect, that : we often discover and avoid error, and elicit i facts. 1 could here give you many striking in- 1 lustrations, but shall refer only to one single I I example. In the summer of 1841, and during ; the month of June, I cowpenned ray stock at I , night for the purpose of manuring a piece of I ground for turnips. I suffered the stock to re- main on the pen until thoroughly covered with f manure. I then removed the pen and plowed up the ground, preventing as I supposed, the evaporation of the manure. I pursued the 'same plan with the second pen, breaking it up ■ as soon as the pen was removed. I again stir- red the ground with a shovel plow and harrow- ed it, and sowed my turnips about the 25th of July. The third pen 1 did not plow up, and it was left in that state until September, when I plowed up the whole field, together with the two first lots, they having missed in turnips. I sowed the field in wheat and there was a deci- ded difference in favor of the pen wheie the ma- nure was left upon the surface. The spring following, the field was planted in corn. The difference here was very perceptible in favor of the third lot ; and this difference is now percep- tible, it being in clover, when the first and se- cond lot, together with the whole field missed, in part, to clover, the third lot was well set. Summit Point, Jefferson Co. Va, W, C. ! The 41 ood of Plants. From the North Carolina Farmer. The practical farmer should understand ( hough of chemistry to know the compound of his lands. With this knowledge he would be able to form a correct estimate of the different soils, and adopt a suitable crop. A succession of crops always impoverishes liie land, no matter how well manured it may be, unless the farmer understands enough of chemistry to supply, in the manure, the parts extracted by the crops. This knowledge can be obtained in the course of one month, by stu- dying one hour each evening in Chaptal’s Agricultural Chemistry, or some other good work. He will find there, the analysis of the differ- ent kinds of grain and straw ; and when a defi- ciency occurs either in the grain or stalk, it points out the correct way to improve and as- sist the earth in bringing forth its crop. When the science of agriculture is well un- derstood, the planter will look alter the health of his fields, with the same interest that he will his animals in the stable, or his servants that work the grounds: the same interests will in- duce him to give food to the soil and the com- ing ci ops that he may reap the abundant har- vest. Unless this be attended to, a portion (and not a small one) of the husbandman’s labor will be lost. But to come directly to the food for plants : it must be understood that all plants do not re- quire the same nutriment ; but all require wa- ter and carbonic acid gas. Tlie roots are thrown out for the purpose of collecting the water and the kinds of earth in solution which forms one or more constituents of the plant. The absorbent organs can be likened to numer- ous little pumps vt'hich are constantly at w'ork ; after the water has been brought up into the plant it makes its appearance under each leal in the form of a globule or little drop ready then to receive the food of the atmosphere. The evaporation of water from the surface of the earth, which is constantly going on, and which condenses each night in the form of dew on the under side of the leaves, contains car- bonic acid gas, or rather the dew is converted into carbonic acid. The plant receives this into circulation, and decomposes the water and discharges the gases during the day from the top of the leaf. This is a wise arrangement in nature. The plants are so organized that the gases cast from the lungs of animals can never be respirable again until decomposed and made the lood of plants : w^ere vegetation to cease, in a lew years the whole atmosphere would be changed into car- bonic acid gas, which would not support ani- mal life. As it is, animals go on preparing an atmosphere for vegetation, and vegetation, in turn, restores an atmosphere of nitrogen and oxygen. It will be seen, then, that vegetation is necessary, not only lor food, but to purify the atmosphere and render it wholesome and fit for respiration. Hence it is that the large parks in London are held sacred and are looked upon as the lungs of that great city. Yours, S. N. B, Sliiid Bridles. Look and reflect, use your own intellect. Yes, use your own thinking powers, friends, they were given you to use and not abuse. Blind bridles! truly named, surely. Art never invented a more fatal thing to the eyes of horses than when she devised this plan of depriving the horse of what nature intended he should en- joy. But, says one, why are blinders injurious to the horse? Because they gather dirt and heat around the eyes. Dirt irritates the eye and heat produces inflammation. These bri- dles so enlrammel the eyes of the horse that he is compelled to be straining them constantly to see his way. This over exertion of the neive soon brings on disease. Eyes were not made in vain, Had they been useless, they would not have been located in the head. They were pla- ced on the corner of the head that he might have the advantage of looking in different di- rections. Men, in the abundance of their ima- ginary wisdom concluded the horse had loo much sight, and they wished to curtail it, hence the origin of blind-bridles. Think of this se- riously and you will abandon the use of so de- struc;ive an appendage. Remember that blind bridles and diseased eyes are inseparably con- nected. Custom hoodwinks the senses of men, as much as blind bridles do the vision of horses. Improper Education; Why do we have so many puny men and nervous women 1 Because parents half the time do not know how to educate their off- spring. If the child is but to school, at an ear- ly age, and if care is taken to provide the best masters, and if the morals are preserved by good examples and religious influence, the pa- rents think all has been done that duty requires, and that their progeny will have nothing to re- proach them for. Fatal error! It is not the mental, so much as the physical education of your child for which you will be called to ac- count. Good health is of more value than book-learning, and contentment and happiness a better heritage than millions of dollars. But no persons can be happy with a sickly consti- tution. Half the miserable hypochondriacs you know may thank their parents for a diseas- ed state of mind. A healthy frame has more to do with sound intellect than you think, and the shortest road to despondency is through a disor- dered system. If you would have your childrea grow up able, energetic men, with minds “ equal to their fortune,” take care in early childhood that they lay the seeds of good constitutions by proper exercise. As a general rule, children are put to school too soon. The consequence is, that the vital power which ought to go to strengthen the muscles and enlarge the frame is consumed in the sustenance of a brain over- taxed by study ; and nothing is more common now than to see children with large heads whom their parents consider prodigies, but who are in every instance we know of, affected with fits, headaches, vertigos, or other nervous disor- ders. Often children thus abused become in- sane; still oftener they die prematurely. In- deed, it has grown into a provvtrb that a child is “ too smart to live.” In the public schools of this city and country this over-taxing of chil- dren with study prevails to a lamentable extent. We have known (asks to be given to a child, and one loo of ordinary ability, which occupied nearly all her time when out of school, to pre- pare for the ensuing day, leaving little or no leisure for recreation. The fact is, teachers wish to makeshort cuts to learning; cram where they ought to instruct. It parents knew how the constitutious of their progeny are weakened by such a forcing system, and what a fertile source of ill-health, and unhappiness arising from ill-health is thus laid up for their victims, they would attend more to the physical educa^ tion of (heir children, see that they had daily exercise, and not attempt to confine them in jschool more than four hours a day, until they are ten years old. Large yield of Corn.— The Highland Mes- senger says: — We are informed by Mr. Alexan- der Porter, the manager on the farm ofThos, T. Patton, Esq., that an acre of corn was planted on the farm the last season, with which it was designed to contend for the prize offered by the Buncombe County Agricultural Society, and that a fewdaj's since the corn was gathered and measured, and the yield was one hundred and thirteen bushels and a half! His farm is on Swannano river. Here, farmers, is an evidence of what can be done. Had the season been good, Mr. Porter has no doubt the yield would have been one hundred and fifty bushels ! 192 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. PROSPECTUS. Kotice to S'Ubscribers. OF THE FOURTH VOX.USIE OF THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR A OTSNTHiT lOUSJJAl., liDguoteb to tl)c Smprouement of tl)e AgriculUtrc of tljc 9out!). Edited by JANIES C ANIAK, of Atliens. In submitting to the Southern Public the Pro- spectus for the Foubth Volume of the SOUTH- ERN CULTIVATOR, which may now be re- garded as permanently established, the Publish- ers deem it unnecessary to advert to the high character the Work has attained under the edito- rial control o! Mr. CAMAK, and therefore make a direct appeal to the Planters and Friends of Agriculture throughout the Southern States, to aid them in sustaining a publication devoted ex- clusively to the cause of Southern Agriculture. The advantages and benefits resulting from Agricultural Periodicals, have been felt and ac- knowledged by the Intelligent and reflecAng Til- lers of the Soil in all civilized nations; to be most useful, therefore, they should be extensive- ly circulated among all classes of Agriculturists; if possible, they should be in the hands of every man who tills an acre of land, and to this end we invoke the aid of every one wl\o feels an in- terest in the improvement of the Agriculture of the South. The first number of the Fourth Volume will be issued on the 1st of January nexc. It is pub- lished Monthly, in Q,uarto form ; each number contains sixteen pages of matter, 9 by 12 inches square. TERMS : One copy, one year ...-$1.00 Six copies ‘‘ “ 5 00 Twenty Five copies, one year '^0 00 One Hunored “ “ “ 75 00 The Cash System will be rigidly enforced. The CASK must always accompany the order, J. W. & W. S. JONES. Augusta, Ga., Nov., 1845. 13“ As we desire to regulate our issue by the number of subscribers, all persons who obtain subscribers are requested to send the lists as ear- ly as possible to J. W'. & W. S. .Tones. COUTEmS OF THIS HUMBER. original papers. Gash System, the ,.... ..page I8f> Engli.'h Fariniig “ Fruits and Fruit Trees “ 181 Florida Onffee.... “ 183 General Slate Society, proposed plan of a “ I'7 How to Gel Rich “ l‘^() Hide.s. remarks on preserving 187 Onr Fourth Volume... “ 184 Plowing, deep “ 138 Railroads, effVcis of “ 186 Southern D-pendeuce “ 186 Southern Indi-pendeiice “ 187 Subsoil Plows, demand for “ 186 Speed the Plow “ 187 aallinnrFrtfvrlfrtr - ............... ** 1 7^7 Slock, salting food for. “ 187 Sheep, rot in, to prevent ‘‘ 168 SELECTIONS, EXTR.ACTS, tC. Agricultural Societies, val'ie of ITS Association of Georgia. “ 1"9 Bridles, Riind “ 191 Barbour County (Ala.,) Agricultural Society, Fair of “ 182 Cobb Count y Agricultural Society, Fair of. . “ IHI Education. Improper “ 191 Farming, E . perimental 190 Manuies. proper appliu ition ol to land “ 190 Plants. Food of » 191 Planters’ Club of H incock. Fair of the “ 180 Remarks of.JimesA. Meriweiher, E q., before the Agricu'tural Society of Fiiinam counjy. “ 177 Subsoil Culture J82 Warren County Agricultural Society, Annual Fair of .180 The breaking down of the power press on which this paper is primed, has delayed the is- sue of the present nninber of the Ccltivator several days beyond i.s usual day of puLdica- tion— the first of every month. We trust ihis apology will be deemed ample for our late ap- pearance this month. AGRSCUL.TUSIAI. HiPLENIEINTTS. Hazard, denslow & webster, Savannah, Geo., near the City Hotel, Dealers in PAINTS, OILS, WINDOW GLASS, GUNPOWDER, SHOT, PAPER, AND AGRICULTURAL IMPLEMENTS. In audition to their usual stock of the above named ar tides, ihe sub.scribers have, within the last year, made large additions to their assoriinenl of Agricul- tural Implements, and now offer to pianters a greatcar variety ihan any other establishment in the Southern country: amongst which may be found the following articles, vis : PLOWS. • Y'’aiikee cast iron. No. 10, li T2 and 20 PIOM’8. Dagoir, or Con lecticut wrought No. I, 2 ami 3 do Allen pa tern, do Riiggles, N o □ rs e & Mason’s improved do Viz;— Ea gle pi ow, heavy, two horse or ox, do d o vvi th wheel and cutler, do No. 2 B Plow, for two hor.-es, do » 2 B do with wheel and cutter. do “ A -3 do m dinm. two horse, do “ A 3 do with wheel and cutter, do ‘‘ A 2 do Jigiit two horse do “ A 1 do do one mule, or garden do “ Oil). do do one horse turning do 7 in. do do do do do “ 15 do newpatlerii, 1 hnige, for light soil, da Subsoil do heavy, two horse, or ox do do do No. 1 do do do do do do 0 one horse ^0 Double mo'ild- board or furrowing do Cotton Irenchi iig do Rice do with guage wheel, do A 1 side till, or swivel mould-boaid. do No 0 d 0 do for one horse, co Plow irons set. up, of Ihe above kinds: also, extra stocks, which can be packed in small compa>s. iheieby makinga great saving ill Iransponat ion. Monld board.s, points and lieels or landsides, tor all the above plows Improved cultivalois, with guage wheel Cultivator plows, or horse hoes, HOES. W. A. Lyndon’s extra black, Carolina hoes. Nos. 0, 1,2 i 3 do bright do do 0. !, 2,t3 do newground do doTPil'I'T do oval eye grubbing do do 2 A 3 do round do do do 2 i J Anchor hoes do 00, 0, 1 & 2 Ilrades, patent do doO, l,2,3dcl Light Yankee do CHAINS. Straight-link trace chains, I t)X chains Twisted do do | Log chains from iO to 18 f ’t MISCELLANEOUS ARTICLES. Collins’s Axes. Knot’s do King’s do Hond’s do Ames’s Shovels, do Handled Spades, do Socket do Ox-bows. Horse rackets, D.rl scr-jpers. Fan mills. Patent churns, Cotton foot gins, Flails, do do Iron Shovels, ass’led kinds. Axe-helves, Swinglelrees, Plow lines, Wheelbarrows, Ilnriicnliural chesta, Pruning shears, i Ditching knives, I Garden hoes.varioQikindi, I Garden rakes, Floni-scrapers, I Toy hoes, i G-trden reels, ’ Tiansplanting troweli, do Forks, I Garden-lines, Long Handled Shovels, Manure Forks, Hay _ do English patent Scythes, American grass do Grass platt Hrnsh and briar Bi iar hooks. Corn cutters, Reap hooks. Scythe Siiaiths, Graiti cradles, new pattern. Rice cradles do Post spoons, (Ix-yokes, ' 3’he subscribers have made such -irrangementsar. v'jll enable them to procqre any improvements which mar be made in the plow, or other kinds of implements suit- ed to ihis section, and trust from their great variety, ino- derate prices and exertions to piease, ihev may receive a liberal share ot public pauonage. Flamers, mer- chants, and manufacturers arc respectfully invited to exariiiiie their stock. Oiders thankfully received and promptly attended to. 1-ly 'B-U4£]VEP seed. A SUPPLY of the following varieties of fresh Turne.-i Seed, jn't received, viz: Yellow Sweedi'h nr rula baga, very fine for stock, Large gloLe iiifnep, “ While fiat do “ Hanover or while rutabaga do “ Norfolk do For sale in quantities to suit purchase; 1 Wm. Haines, Jb., Broad-st. (Fine for tab:e use. AUGU.s'J'a PlIiEidS CI-’Ii REi\T. Thursday, Die. 4, 18a5 Wholesale. Retail. BAGGING, Hemp .ft yard 13 (a) 15 ■ T ow St t. none. Gunny (t (( 17 (a) 18 .jd BALE ROPE . “ lb. 5 (cd 7 J BACON, Hog round H (t 9 (a> 10 Hams (t tt 10 Cd> 12 tihoulders t( a 8 (3 9 Sides .... H (( 9 (a) 10 BUTTER Goshen (( (( 23 (a) 20 North Carolina... t( n 10 (a) 1! Country u u 1-2 (a) 15 COFFEE, Green prime Cuba Ct (( 8 (a) 9 Ordiiiaiy to Good. , il tl 7 'id 8 Java- U (( 13 fa) 15 Mocha a (( 22 (a) 25 CANDLES, Spermaceti (( (( 30 (ir) 33 Taliow a (( 12 (a) 16 CHEESE, American 9 fa) 12 English (( t( none. ^ CORN . “ bush. 65 (S FLOUR, Canal U tb 7 25 fa) 8 00 Baltimore a u 5 50 fid 6 00 . Western, u u 5 50 fid 6 00 ' Country (( u 6 CO fa) 6 75 FEATHERS . “ lb. 28 red 30 ' IKON, Russia (( (( 5 00 fa) 6 00 \ Swedes, assorted . “ cwt. 4 50 (id 5 00 i Hoop (t t( 7 00 (id 8 00 I Sheet t( u 00 (a) 8 00 1 Nail Pods (t 5 00 (id 7 00 y LEAD “ lb. 6 (a) 74* LEATHER, Sole a u 14 (a) 15 1 Upper , “ side 67 (id 2 00 J Call Skins . “ doz r2 00 (a) 26 00 1 LARD . “ lb. 8 (id in '9 MOLASSES, N. Orleans . “ gaL 30 (a) 36 J Havana t( it -25 (id 30 4 English Island. u u none. H NAILS , “ lb. 5 (id 6 ^ OlI.S.Lamp “ gal. 1 00 (id 1 25 II.ATS . “ bush. 50 (id PEAS (( (i 62 (a) 73 1 KICE, Prime . “ cwt 5 00 (id 5 boM Inferior to Good U (b 4 00 (a) 5 00 ■ SUGAR, New Orleans . “ lb. 7 (a) Havana, white C. 4( 11 (3) 12 -1 SALT Liverpool bulk . “ bush. 40. . (id 43 '4 (( (i . “ sack 1 45 (a) 1 60 J STEEL, German . “ lb. 15 (id Blistered U (( 8 (a) 17 4 SPIRITS, Cognac 4th proof. . . “ gal. 1 50 (id 3 00 5 'TEA Pouchoiig (( it 75 fc) 1 00 1 Y'oung Hyson. tt t( 30 (id I 25 Hyson. . t( n 75 (id 1 00 Gunpowdei (( <( 1 00 (cd 1 50 Imperial (t U 1 00 (a) 1 50 G.A.4si».-..'^ .AND Ei.-.Eai yEicliiS. A GENERAL as.sonnient of Iresh and genu- ine Qaiden and Field Seed, among which are th* following : Red and white clc'ver. Blue and green grass. Rve and oichard do Timothy and herds do Millet and Lucernedo Seed corn of every valua-S,, wHssnf rttlA Tn Buckwheat Appotato oats, Seed wheat, [hie variety Kepi consiantly on hand by the subscriber, all a which are olfered lor sale at vei y moderate prices. •Ml oiders, by mail or otherwise, executed with neat ness and despatch- Wm Hainss-.Ir., 1 No. 212. Broad-street, Augusta, Ga. MR. AIM D MRN. aFM A l\»}j ROARDw ING AND DAY SCHOOL. No. 22S Kroad-street, Augusta, Geo. This insiiiuuon has been un- D R the direction of its present Principals for se- ven yeais, and ihe socce.ss which has attended it has en. bled them greatly to increa-e the facilities it afiordt for tiie educal ion of young ladies Provision is made lor thorough instruciion in all the departments of fe- male educiioii. Ihe next term commences October Is!. Pupils can enter at any time during the term, . and will be charged for the lime they are members cf. the school Tuition *8, $12 and SI5 pe; quarter,.ac cording lo the age and standing of ihe scholar. Music and i'reiic-h at the usual r.aies.’ Board $1.6 per month, i ®l)c 0oiitt)crn (lultiDator Is published on the first of every month, at Augusta, Ga J W. 6c. W. S. JONES, PRt.)PRl£roRS. EDITED BY JAMES CAMAK, OF ATHENS, Gi TERMS.-ONE DOLLAR A YEAR. 1 copy, one year, $i oo I 2-5 copies, one year, ..900 ( 6 copies, “ 5 ou I too copies, “ .. 75( (All subscriptions must commence with the volume.) Thb Ca>h Sv.stem will be rigidly adhered to, and in no case will tlie paper be sent unless the money accompaniet the order. AnvERTTSEMENTspertainingto Agricultu-e, will be fa^ serted for on doi.lar for every square of ten lines i less, for the first insertion, and seventv-five cents) square for eai h continuance. trlr“P ST .MAsTE-rs are authorized to receive and ward m-mey frre of postage. ■r'S=A L C -MMONICATIONS, MUST BE POST PAID, addressed to JAMES UAMAiC, Athens, GeoreU. > THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR f M. st©3aaiii» irewaaaai a DEVOTED TO THE INTERESTS OF SOUTHERN AGRICULTURE. Ilc0i9ncb to Jmprooe tl)c TO ELEVATE THE CHARACTER OF THE TILLERS OF THE SOIL, AND TO INTRODUCE A MORE EHLISHTINED SYSTEM OF CULTURE. EDITED BY JAMES CAMAK. VOL. IV. AUGUSTA, GA : PUBliZSHSID BY J. W. W> S. JOMBS. 1846. INDEX TO THE FOURTH VOLUME A Page. Address of R. P. Sassnett, before the Plan- ters Club of Hancock 5 Admixture of soils, on the 134 Agriculture, aid to 43 “ and Science 184 “ and the clergy 24 “ anticipations about 25 “ European, notice ot Colman’s56,120 “ Horseley’s wine and nursery, . 91 “ in the United States 38 “ in schools 63 “ improvements in 103 “ practical 35 “ practice of 11 Agricultural College at Mt. Airy 174 “ correspondence 78 “ Chemistry 165 “ Education 153, 168,185 “ experim’ts, care in raaking.20, 73 “ fairs, influence of 191 “ implements 47 “ improvement, future 133 “ “ Judge Rosts’ letter 62 “ meeting in Harris county. . . 174 ‘ " Gwinnett county. 174 ‘ papers 26 ‘ reading 188 “ reading, &c,, by Zachary.. .154 “ Society, Albany, Baker CO., 142 “ “ Barbour CO. .60, 76, 143 “ “ Burke CO., Ga.33, 47, 49 “ “ Chatham, Bryan and Effingham 86 Agricultural Society, Clark county, Ga .160 » “ Jefferson CO., Ga 60, 142 “ “ Leon CO,, Fla 47 “ " Liberty C0.51, 60, 65,123 “ “ Monroe and Cone- cuh 158, 173, 190 Agricultural Society, Pendleton, S. C 159 » “ State of Georgia.13,17, 18 19,20, 86 “ “ State of S. Car’na.20, 84 " “ Taladega CO., Ala 92 “ “ Talbot CO,, Ga. 75,160,191 “ Warren co., Ga 59 “ Societies, names of, wanted. . 169 “ science in France 73 Alpaca, introduction of the, into the U. S. . 126 Amateur Gardener, the 102 American ingenuity 43 Animals, domestic improvement of 94 “ urine of 181 “ concerning the breeding of . , . . 32, 68 Animal substance, conversion of vege- tables into 166 Anonymous writers 46 Ant, to get rid of the red 93 Apricots, select list of 31 Apples, a chapter on 103 “ select list of 31 “ preservation of 152,169 Apple Butter, how to make 152, 170 Artichoke, Jerusalem 70 Asparagus, how to raise giant 137 B Bark of trees, slitting 93 Barley, green, a substitute for corn 138 “ enquiry about.. 74 Bear grass, concerning. 70, 75, 179 Bee-miller, to destroy the 119 Beer, to make ginger 119 Bermuda grass, to destroy.. 91, 108 Book farming and a portrait 105, 109 Books fora farmers’ library 89 Bots, natural history ot 129 “ cure for the 155 Buckwheat, culture of 55 Bugs, to prevent their depredations on beans. 119 Butter, how to make apple 152, 169 “ list of varieties of bad -..168 “ making 150 “ about the philosophy of ..181 “ purchasing, rules for 37 “ Philadelphia, cause of its flavor. ... 151 Bread, white and brown, relative value of.. 162 '• recipes for making 161 Breeding of animals 32, 68 Brinkley ville Vineyards, notice 21, 156 C Calendar, Monthly 14, 30, 37, 62, 78, 94, 1 08, 124 141, 145, 167, 177 Candles, hints to makers of 20 Cakes, to make, of rice 87 Cattle trade, an account of the 165 " Hereford, an article on 171, 189 Coffee, Florida 140 Colic in horses, remedy for the 29 Cold weather, to keep warm in 42 College, Agricultural at Mt. Airy 174 Contributors, notice to 40 Convention, resolutions of the Memphis 42 Corn crusher, Rowe’s 141 “ to cure for boiling 124 “ sheller, an account of a 140, 171 “ green barley, a substitute for 138 “ and cob mills 58 “ boiling, for hogs 58 " great yield of 27, 84 culture of 75 “ and fodder, experiments with 165 CORRESPONDENTS. Abbey R 141.173 CORRESPONDENTS— Continued- A. B. C. Agricola .. . . Anonymous A. R A.S Aw try, W, Baker, W. S Bowie, A Burke, B. B Caldwell, Robert. . . . Calhoun, John A. . . . Carolinian, Carolinensis,. ....... Cooper, M. A 45 Chambers Clodhopper Davidson, P.. . - Davis, Charles D D. G .. Duncan, P.E Farmer, A.. ........ Farrar, John Flournoy, J, J Green, John Havis, J. D Hurt, Joel J. C. S Kendall, D Liberty county, Long Coulter Madison McDonald, Alex ...11,28,57,90,122 McDowell, S McKinley, Wm.... McMillan, D Paniptt .T n Pedro, P. W. J Raytown, Rogers, A. C Rose, D. C. Reinhardt, D R. W Summer, A. G Shorter, R. C Smallwood, Wm Turner, J. L Trep Walton Watts, 157 Weller, Sidney White, Geo Zachary, INDEX.... VOL. IV 111 Cotton nianulactures 12 “ Mastodon 12,141,173,186 ** fine 21 “ Sea Island 74 “ Nankin 46 “ planters, remedy for their embarrass- ments 119 Cotton caterpillar 157 " crop in Alabama 154 “ “ of the U. States, for the year ending August 31, 1846 151 Cotton, first bale of new 135 “ gins 74 Cow peas 74 Cowology, notice of a treatise on milk cows 28, 40 Cultivator, the Southern... 8, 72 “ Mr.Farrar’s proposition about the 74 Currants, select list of. . 31 Chemical principles, necessity for a know- ledge of 101 Charcoal on wheat 8 Cheese-making ISO Clay, Georgia 36 Clergy, their influence on Agriculture 24 Club, Planters’, of Hancock co., premiums. 30 “ Farmers’, of Monroe county, fair of. . 191 Crab grass, hay of 71 Croup, cure for the 1.55 Crows should not be destroyed 166 Crop, notice of the grain 88 Crops, rotation of 149 “ the 105,122 *' and culture, Southern 134 “ in Mississippi 155 '* in Florida 187 “ Southern 185 Crossing, effect of, on the Consitution 109 D Debts, paying our 140 Degeneracy of plants 93 Dependence, Southern 41 Dew, how produced 175 Domestic Wine, notice of 42 “ animals, improvement of 94 Dogs, Shepherd’s 72, 73 “ injury by, to wool growers 9 “ an article on 92 Draining land, concerning 77 Drought.... 91 Dyspepsia, cure for the 27 E Earth, benefit of pressing the 69 European Agriculture, notice of Colman’s. 120 EDITORIALS. Agriculture, Colman’s European,. .. .56, 120 *■' And the Clergy, 24 aid to 43 “ anticipations about 25 Agricultural Education,.. 153, 168,185 “ experiments,... 73 “ papers, 26 Apples, how to save in winter,. . . . 152, 169 Asparagus, giant, how to raise 137 Books for a farmer’s library, 89 Book-farming 105 Bread and butter, 168 Corn, great yield of 27 Cowology, 28,40 EDITORIALS— Continued- Cultivator, Southern 72, 105, 153 Charcoal on wheat, 8 Clergy and agriculture, 24 Crops of 1846, •••• 105 JDogs, concerning 9 “ Shepherds’ 72 Dog traps, how to make 26 Domestic port wine, 25 Dependence, Southern 41 Dyspepsia, cure for 27 Education, agricultural 153, 168, 185 Efficient support 40 Egg trade of Cincinnati, 105 Engravings,. 168 Experiments, agricultural 73 Farmer’s life, 27 Farming, Pennsylvania. 12! “ Yankee 138 “ N, Carolina 137 Figs, Southern 83 Frying as a mode of cooking, 169 Grain crop 88 Grass, a new for the South • . . . .152 Ground nuts, 40 Haymaking, 120, 136 Horses, Morgan, ....27,41, 88 Horticulturist, the 168 Healtb, physiology, &.c 26 Hemp, Southern- • 72 Independence, Southerns, 56, 88, 121,153, 1S5 Industry, New-England 56 Ingenuity, American 43 Iron works 8 Labor, respect for 9 Liberality, New-England- 24 Library, books for a farmer’s 89 Madeira wine, how made 25 Marl, 72 88, 120 Measures of capacity 9, 41 Memphis Convention 42 Milk trade of New York 104 Mutton 89 McDonald, Col. A., his proposition 136 ” obituary 138 New England Farmer, notice of 121 Ourselves 152 Our Patrons, to 184 Opinions of the press about the Cultivator- 153 Orange tree insect - 24 Port Wine, domestic 25 Potatoes, how cultivated 40 Physiology, health, &c 23 Plowing, deep 66, 73 ” English 72 ” American 88 ” Dialogue about-- - 90 Press, opinions of the, about theCultivatorl53 Public Property, protection of- 89 Right Spirit, the -• - 88 Robinson, Solon, his tour - 8 Science and Agriculture 184 Soil, improvement of the 105 Shoes, Wooden 24 Sumach 41, 137, 169 Subscribers, about those 20,000- - 184 Strawberry trade of New York 104 Tobacco 24 Turpentine - 104 Trees, ornamental 4i ” roadside 104 ” to be planted 89 Weather, the 42 Wine, domestic 25, 42 Wooden Shoes 24 Wheat, Charcoal on 8 Economy and Industry 60 “ Plantation 13, 29,57, 127 Egg Trade of Cincinnati 105 Etowah Iron Works, Mr. Cooper’s account of 45 Experiments, curious, in breeding animals •• 32 F Fairs, Agricultural, influence of 191 Farm Management 66, 172 “ Model of the Union 147 “ “ of Ohio 38 “ Tools 39 Farmer, life of a 27 “ on four acres, and on four hundred acres 55 “ importance of the ---• 95 “ importance of knowledge to the --183 “ the ignorant 107 Farmers, good advice to 95 “ of South Carolina, to the 53 Farming, Pennsylvania 121 “ neatness in 108 “ Yankee 121, 128 “ North Carolina 137 “ On twenty-five acres 166 Farrar’s Proposition 72 Fencing, a substitute fot 46 “ Rules for making rail 46 Festival, Horticultural, at Boston 1 Figs, Southern 88 “ and Wine 122 Filberts 71 Filtering water, simple method of 51 F.)od,Nutriciou$ 77 Folly, Southern 79 Pour acre, and four hundred acre farmer- • - • 55 Fritters, recipe for making 77 Fruit and fruit trees 30 Fruit trees, manures for 174 “ preparing seeds of 181 Frying as a mode of cooking- 169 G Garden Seeds, planting and vegetating of- - - 22 “ Refuse of the Ill “ Plantation for the South 23 Georgia, true policy for 11 Ginger Beer, to make 119 Gooseberries, select list of- 31 Guano, poisonous 105 Guinea Grass, concerning 84 Grafting in summer, mode of 170 Gravel in horses, inquiries about 155 Grain crop, the 88 Grape culture 21, 156 '• Scuppernong, fortheSouth 10 Grapes, select list of 31 “ manure for 174 Grass, a new, for the South 152 Green barley, a substitute for corn 133 Green crops, turning in to enrich land 164 Gieen house plants, treatment of- 77 Groundnuts, concerning- 40, 140 H Hammond, Gov., letter by, on marl 81, 97 Hay, curing 136 and fodder crops, concerning 39 Health, Physiology, &c 26 Hemp, Southern- --- 70, 72 Hereford Cattle, an account of 171, 1£9 Hint, taking a Ill IV INDEX,... VOL. IV. Hogs, fattening “ to cure staggers in 173 Home truths HI Horses, some remarks on 27 “ remedy ior colic in 29 “ IMorgan, &c- • • 41, 88 Horticulturist, notice cf the- • • • 168 Horticultural Festival at Boston 1 Hopkins’ Allen Plow, noiice of 59 Husbandry, History of- Id" 1 Independence, Southern 8,41, 45, 55,88, 121, 153, 165 Industry, New England 56 Information respectfully desired 169 Ingenuity, American 4i Iron works, account ot the Etowah 45 Irrigation, concerning- - 12 Items • • 24 ILLUSTRATIONS— Hereford Bull, Sir George 171 Hereford Cow, Matchless ■ Silk worm, cocoon and moth 115 K Kettles, large 58 L, Labor, respect for 9, 139, 186 “ well directed, importance of 175 I.adies, Southern 135 Lamps, to prevent from smoking 93 Land, to make poor good, and good belter - - - 36 ” improvement of 187 “ improvement of exhausted 108 “ too much 63 “ clearing 53 lAberaUty, New England 24 Litne, a chapter on 13i ” use of 163 Little things, not to be neglected 35 Lockjaw, remedy for 67 Lucerne, concerning 108 Rl Manure, appropriate 48 foronions-- 77 “ application of 110,181 Manures, their application 7o “ the effect of prepared 100 “ mineral, concendng- - - 153 “ nature’s, reciprocity system of 167 Manners, rural, in England 87 Marl, notice of Gov. Hammond’s letter on-- 72 “ Gov. Hammond’s letter on 81,97 “ Effectof, on Gov. Hammond’s fields-- 120 Measures, useful 9,41,46, 91 Meat and corn 46 Meteorological Journal for Oct., Nov. and Dec., 1845-. 16 “ “ Jan’y, Feb. and Mar, 1846 •• 96 *• “ April, May and June, 1846--128 " “ July, Aug. and Sept., 1846-. 176 Millet, concerning 46 Milk trade of New York 104 Mi k, glass pans Desi for 124 Mutton, belter than bacon 89 McDonald, Col. A., letter from 28 “ his proposition- - 128, 136, 152, 154 “ notice of his death 133 N Nankin cotton 46 New England Farmer, discontinuanceof 121 “ Industry 56 “ Liberality. 24 Nectarines, select list of- 31 () Oats, smut or blast in 107,122 Ourselves - *136, 152 Opinions of the press about ihe So. CuUivatorl53 Ovens, diicctions for making 161 Overseers, concerning 106 Orange tree, to prevent insect depredations on the 21 Crnameutal trees, should be planted 41 Orchards, best time for pruning 126 P Pancakes, recipe to make - • 77 Peaches, a select list of 31 ” dried 139 Peas and Beans, nutritive properties of 161 Pears, a select list ol 31 ” the best five winter 182 Permanence, w’cnt of, in the South 114 Poultry, about the care of- • - - 54 Potatoes, their cu'tivation 40, 102, 107 Physiology. Health, &c 26 Plantation economy 13,29, 57, 127 Planters’ Club of Hancock, prems 30 Profession ought to be respected -- HO Piaster, action of, as a manure 61 Plowing, general rules for 163 “ deep 56, 73, 79 “ E.nglish 72 “ conversation on 90 “ near the Salerno 108 “ subsoil 31, 43 Plow's and other farm tools 39 “ subsoil- - -• ’- 31, 45 Plums, a select list of 31 Property, on the protection of public 89 Pruning, proper season for 126 R Raspberries, select list of 31 Rats, how to lure them into traps 124 Red .4.nt, to drive away the 93 Refuse of the garden Ill Road side trees, ‘heir use and importance- - -104 Robinson, scion, his tour 8 Root crops for stock 86 Rose, proper soil for the 176 Rice, a new proposition concerning 110 Rye, on the cultivation of 130 Rhubarb or Pie Plant, concerning 69 ■ S Salt as a fertilizer 143 Seeds, planting and vegetating of garden 22 Silk, on the culture and management of- ---115 Soi', iinpiovmg the, an tjxperiment 29 “ to improve the 110,148,149 Soils, analysis of 182 “ fertile--' 188 Southern Cultivator 72 “ crjps and culture 134 “ folly 79 “ hemp 7J, 72 “ independence '8, 41, 45, 56, 83, 121 133, 185 “ ladies 135 “ soils, improvement of 148 -Subsoiling, an experiment in 45 Sumach, concerning- - - -41, 69, 75, 137, 163, 173 Sunflower, cultivation of, and use of seed- • - • 87 Support, efficient 40 Science with practice 101 “ and agriculture.... 184 Sheep and the Shepherd’s dog 68, 72 “ management of- 170 Shoes, w'ooden, recommended 24 Slaves, on the management of 43, 113, 127 Spirit, the right 57,83,99, 92 Statistics of Georgia, proposition concerning the .--171 Strawberry and Milk trade of New York 101 Squash crop, concerning the 91 Subscribeis, about those 20,000 184 T Toads should be protected 16G Tobacco, culture of in Connecticut and Ken- tucky 24 Tobacco, housing and curing 146 Tomato, to make wine of the 125 Turpentine, information about 104, 172 Trees, roadside 104 U Urine of animals 181 V Vegetables, conversion of, into animal sub- stance 166 Ventilation, impoitanccof 175 Vineyards, outline of American system ol-- -173 W Warren County Ag. Society, Premiums by-- 59 Weather, the 42 Weeds should be aestroyed 175 Wine, domestic Port ‘25 “ culture, brief outline of American S3 “ Tomato, to make 125 Wooden shoes recommended 24 Wool, its preparation, &c., for market- 170 Worth know'ing 119 Wheat, experiments with charcoal, on 8 “ Southern States should cultivate largely 150 “ extraordinary experiments with 160 “ sowing in Houston county 156 Whooping cough, cure for the 112 Yarns, Georgia, triumphant- Veast, recipes for making. - •• ■179 161 VoL. IV. AUGUSTA, GA., JANUARY, 1846. No. 1. HORTICULTUKAC FESTJVAS. AT EANEtJSE HALL. [Abridged from tbe Boston Journal of Sept. 23-.} The 17 ii anniFersary of thai highly utilita- rian and most liono.''able association, the A/as- sac'iusdls HortiailLiiral S>cieiy, was celebrated on Friday last, at Faneuil Hall, by a well ar- ransfed fete, prepared in beautiful accordance with the occasion — a “ least of fruits,” mosl abundantly showin? ihe rewards yielded to the liberal cultivator by that Protecting Power which alone “giveththe increase.” Simple confections of attractive display, and very plea- sant to the taste, prepared under the direction of Madame Meyer, composed the remainder of the b.anquet, and Temperance held her gay court tn the evergreen bower, which was formed in the old Cradle of Liberty. The choicest au- tumnal gems of the ll )rdl kingdom gaveajo}'- ous effect to the whole decorations of the gala, and the caup d'mUoi the hall after the company had assembled, amidst the flood of light thrown upon the scene, was both picturesque and bril- liant. The tints of the fliwers, i. ied, in their glowing warmth, with the hues of the various fruits, an! the peacn outdid the rose in its blushing beauty. There were app.es on the laden tables “ that rivalled rubies; pears of to- paz tint; a whole parapliernalia of plums, some purple as the amethyst, others blue, and bril- liant as the sapphire; an emerald here, and nowa golden drop, that gleamed like the yellow diamond of Genghis Khan, ’ There were grapes too> exquisite in flavor and beauty, and melons beyond all praise for. size and perfec- tion. These rich products of a proud cultiva- tion, made us reneu edly to biess the sunshine which seemed ihe .source ol the earth’s fertility, and we thought that its golden warmth could never again beam upon a barren heart, where there was so much to e.xcite to thankfulness. The decorations of the Hall were both chaste and pleasing; large trees from the forests filled op the space between the pillars of the galle- ries, whilst the panels and columns were orna- mented with graceful iestoons, and tastefully entwined with flowers. At the east end of the gallery, an inscription upon an arch rea.i as fol- lows ; “MASSACHUSETTS HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY, Serenteenfh Annual Exhibition ” Ol the west end there was suspended from the portraits of Washington and Peter Faneuil, a mo t-i bearing the following appropriate quo- tation ; ■•Til lion ers and blossoms T.ove is wont tn trace Emblems ol Woman’s Virloes and ber grace.” The panels around the galleries bore the names of the le.iJing botanists and cultivaiors of foreign lands, as welt as of our own -Lin- nceus. Jus.sies, Loudon, Knight, Van Muns, De Caniolle, Daharael, Douglas, Plumier^ Lowell, Buel, Fessenden, M.inning, Prince and Michius. Marshall P. Wilder, E-q., presided on the oc- casion, being assistid in his arrangements bv the i.i-i 'latigable attention of the gentle nen wh ) had been appointed Marshals. The larg^- assembly occupied the whole floor of the hall, and were ex ended along thirteen tables, num- bering in all about six t iindred persons, ladies and gentlemen. O i th e right of President \/ilder sat the venemble widow of Ale.x:.nier Hamilton, fthe daughterof Gen. Philip Schuy- ler,) and the P.ev. Dr. Codman, the officiating clergyman on ttie occasion. On the rostrum, in front of the President, were seated the follow- ing guests ; Hon. Ed ward Everett, Hon. Daniel W’’ebster, Ex-President Q,uincy, Hon. R. C. Winthrop, Hon. Caleb Cushing, Hon. J. G Palfrey, His H-inor the Mayor, Hon. Jonathan Chapman, : Rev. Mr. Choules, Hon. S. H. W'alley, jr., ■ Hon. Mr. Maclay, Hon. Mr. Meigs, George S. Hilliard, Esq., George G. Smith, President of the .Mechanic Association;. Delegates from NewAmrk, Kew Jersey, and Q.ueen’s County, Long Island. The opportune arrival of our late Minister at the Court of St. James, was the exciting event of the occasion, and the hearts of both men and women beat proudl}', as they welcomed in Fa- neuil Hall their honorable and honored ambas- sador. The company being comfurtablv seated, it was announced by the Chief Marshal, that the Committee appointed to waiton His Excellency Edward Everett, and solicit his attendance, had arrived. As Mr. Everett entered the hall, ihe President requested the audience to rise. Mr. Everett was then conducted to the ro.^trum by Messrs. Josiah Bradlee and Stephen Fairbanks, where the forme’’ gentleman, with a few appropriate remarks, introduced the distinguished guest to the President. Mr. Wilder then prf sented Mr. Everett to the audience with the following remarks; Ladies and Gentlemen — It is with feelings of high graiilicaiion that I am enabled to present to you a distinguished m.ember of our associa- tion, who, alter an absence of several years of honorable service at me Court of St. James, has this day arrived on the shoies of his own New England, i introduce to your cordial greeting — His Excellency Edward Everett! The announcement of a name so loved and honored, so ramiliar and so connected with nroud a.^sociations, made the hall echo with welcomings. Order being again restored, the throne of Grace was invoked by the Rev. Dr. Codman, alter which, the material part of the banquet was discussed, and the products xd' a rich horticulture abundantly and most satisfac- torily tested. After a reasonable time thus spent, the Presiaent arose and addressed the as- sembly as follows ; Ladies and Gen'lemenr — It has been remark- ed that ourcountry’s glori’ is its cultivated soil. The li ling of the earth was the first employ- m -nt given by ihi Supreme Ru'er to ihe human aie — it has ever been the fi si step to civiliza- lioa, and those nations that have been the mo.st distinguished for their devotion to this calling, have also been the most celebrated for litera- i ture, science and the fine art.s. I It is the founiation of all national and indi- I vidu ll prosperity and wealth — the basis on which rest commeYce, manufactures, and all the various great interests that unite to make j up Ihe .sum of human happiness, and in the j language of our own Washington, whose be- I nign countenance seems, from the canvas, [here the President poin’ed to Stuart’s portrait.] to re- peat again — “ It is the most healthful, the most useful, and the most noble employment of man.” I Horticulture and Floricultare, and their kin- dred branches, are bui higher and more advan- ; ced departments of the great science — the arts i that leqch us to develope and improve the lich , fruits and flLoral beauties that lie treasured in j the lap of mother earth, and to adorn and em- I hellish her luxuriant bosom with the endless j diversity of her productions as she displays her \ ever-varying charms,, in tree, fruit and flower, I from the lofty cedar of Lebanon to the humble I lily of the valley. ! It were easv' to cite a long list of the illustri- ous men who have bestowed on this pursuit i their distinguished approbation ; of poets who : nave sang its praises;, the theologians and phi- j losophers who have extolled its virtues and I pleasures; of heroes and statesmen, and the ! master spirits of the world, who, having receiv- ed all the honor and glory that could be con- I ferredou them by theirfellow men, have retired to its calm and peaceful labors, to spend the j evening of a busy life in the contemplation of ; ail that is beautilul and sublime in creation, and to enjoy “ God’s blessings as they spring fresh from the earth.” The recurrence of another anniversary sug- gests a review of the progress and condition of our institution. Sixteen years ago, ihisday, its fiistexhibi ion was held in the Exchange Coffee House in this city, and as an illustration of the great success and prosperity that have attended the efforis of its members, i quote from the published Report of the Society. The number of contributors on that occasion was thirty-two. The baskets and dishes of fruit less than one hundred, and the amount of premiums offered less than S’200. During the present anniversary, there have been placed on our tables more than fourteen di'hes ol fruits, and the premiums of- fered by the Society this year, exceed $1,300. And as a further illu-rraiion, 1 notice by this Report, that the contribution of Robert Man- ning, the great Pomologistof America, consist- , ei of but one basket of peaches, while at the ; present exhibition, the lamily of the lamented man have sent us "240 varieties of the pear. And in a note that I received from him but a short time previous to his decease, he stated that : he had gathered into his own collection, from a ; point of time but a few years antecedent to the 1 formation of this institution, nearly 2,000 varie- ties of fruits. ' Similar advances have been made by other ; menTibers, and those whose names were not then i borneon its roll, and some who had not even com- I rnenced the good work, are now amongst its i largest contributors, presenting forty, fifty, and an hundred varieties; and the same success and corresponding increase has been attendant on the productions of the floral and vegetable king- dom. Among the pleasing incidents of the present j’ear, may be noticed the completion and occu- pancy of o’^r new edifice in School-street; but who would have predicted that ere the present exhibitio n had closed, there would still exist a demand for further and enlarged accommoda- tions? I congratulate the Society on the liberal and increasing patronage of the community — og the addition of more than 100 new members to its ranks during the last nine months — on the 2 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. continued improvement in the productions ex- hibited—on the honorable and elevated standing which ou r institution sustains both at home and abroad— and on the harmony and union that prevails among us. We have assembled to commemorate its I7ih anniversary. We are met in this Temple ot Liberty, whose time-honored walls have oft re- sounded to deeds o( patriotism and benevolence, and we too have come up hither lor a benevo- lent object. We have not come to prepare by exciting debate for the political contest, nor tor the discussion ol those subjects that agitate so- ciety to its very centre. We are not here to share the spoils of party, or to rejoice in the victories of the sword that has poured out the blood of our lellow beings like water on the earth. No, we come tor a richer and nobler object. We come to celebrate the peaceful triumphs of Horticulture — to ad- vance a science that tends to the preservation and happiness of our race— that adits to the en- joyments and refinements ot lile — that adminis- ters to the luxuries and comforts ol our neigh- bors— a pursuit that renders home still more lovely andattractive — that invigorates the body, tranquilizes the mind, chastens the affections, elevates the thoughts— and , rightly viewed, should fill the soul with emotions of gratitude and devotion to that bountiful Creator, who “ Sends Nature forth, the daughter of the skies. To dwell ou earth and charm ail human eyes.” Amidst the array of beautv, intellect and learning that I witness around me, I have not the presumption to detain yo ; from the rich in- tellectual repast with which you will be favored in the remarks ot others. 1 cat not conclude, however, without alluding to the grace and elegance bestowed on our feast by woman— to her — who “Still is fairest found where all is fair ” Ladies! we welcome you with all our hearts. W^ithout the light of your countenances, and the smiles of your approbation, our emulation and enterprise would languish and decline; and we rejoice with gratitude in the beautiful and glorious results that have flowed from your etforts in the cultivation of the ment d fruits ; in training intelleciual plants lor honor and use- fulness here, and fur a habitation in the celestia. fields, where may you be rewarded with a crown of never-fading flowers, and a harvest of im- mortal fruit. Ladies and Gentlemen, I propose for your consideration, as a sentiment, Oullivation, Manual, Mental and Moral — The three great sources of wealth, fame and happiness. In the absence ol Gov. Briggs, John G. Pal- frey, Esq., the Secretary of the Commonwealth was called upon to respund to a toast, and spoke as follows : Mr. President, and readies and Gentlemen — 1 learn more and more every day, how impru- dently I have acted in taking upon me the hum- ble office which has been the occasion of this call upon me. This is not the first time I have suffered in this way. You pay your respects to your Governor, who is rearing quietly, as you so justly say, his crop of esteem in all parts of the State, and, in his absence, you call upon one humble individual, as his representa- tive, to face an audience, which it would re quire more boldness than he claims as an attri- bute of his, to meet. Mr. President, lime was, when Massachu- setts had a Governor who was on the spot, and accustomed to respond for himself to any call that might be made upon him. Thank God, he is among us again this evening. (Great cheer- ing.) Thank Heaven, that he is here sale and sound to receive again our hearty welcome, and to respond to ns in those eloquent tones, to which this hall has so often resounded! Mr. President, I have seen the lime, when I was hard pushed for mailer for a discourse. I was glad of a good text. And you have this evening given me a good text in the sentiment which you have ofifered in compliment to the Chief Magistrate of this Commonwealth, But I will reserve that subject for another occasion, when another audience shall throng the floor and galleries of this venerable hall. I will now speak, not of the Governor of Massachusetts, but of Massachusetts herself. How has Pro- vidence bkssed us in making us citizens ol the good old Commonwealth ! With what a pro- fusion of bounty has Providence surrounded us in appointing here our lot ! We often speak in admiration of the wonders ot art and the tri- umphs of machinery. What shall we say of that amazing mystery w’hich transforms the brown earth, insipid waier, and invisible air, into delicious fruits, and beauiilul and fragrant flowers! What shall we say ol the delicate machinery of the little seed which gives to the oak its strength, to the flower its beautiful tints, and to the Iruit its exquisite flavor ! — of that be- nificent Power which surrounds us under a Northern star with the gorgeousness of an Asia- tic summer! We have heard it said that the only products of Massachusetts are granite and ice— she has been called the state ol hard bar- gains and hard granite, of icy takes, and icy hearts, I will not adit, lor that has long been an obsolete idea — but 1 will conclude with giv- ing you a sentiment. * * * * * The Hon. Edward Everett, in reply to a toast, said : Mr. President, Ladies and Gentlemen:— \ am greatly indebted to you for this cordial recep- ti( n. I cannot but feel under great obligations to the Massachusetts Horticultural Society, ol which I have long had the honor of being a member — though a very unprofitable one — that the first voice of salutation which reached me on returning home, proceeded from them. Our respected tellowc-iiizens, Messrs. Josiah Brad- lee and Stephen Fairbanks, on their morn- ing stroll through East Boston, w’ere good enough, before I had set foot on terra Jirma, to convey to me your kind invitation ; and here, fellow-citizens and friends, amidst this attrac- tive display ot the bounf'es and beauties of na- ture; surrounded by so many ol those w'ho most adorn and honor the community; drink- ingin the breath of sweet flowers and the sweet- er breath of friendly voices, I have the happi- ness, after a long absence, to stand in your pre- sence, and to enjoy the honor of your welcome. (Applause.) 1 regret that I am so little able to thank you in a proper manner. I have been so lately rocking upon the Atlantic — whose lullaby is not always of the gentlest — that I am hardly fit ' for a rocking in the “Old Cradle of Liberty,” to which your kind note ol this morning invited me. I almost unconscirusly eaten at the table to steadv myself, expecting that the flowers and Iruiis will letch way in some lee-lurch ; and even the pillars ol Old Faneuil Hall — not often found out of the true plumb line — seem to reel over my head. But as 1 look around and be- hold so many well-remembered countenances, and as I listen to the friendly cheers with which you are so kind as to receive the announce- ment of my name, I leel at length that 1 am in- deed at home. Something of this grateful feeling has been for some days growing upon my mind. We seemed almost to have reached the goal, when we found ourselves a week ago on the edge of the Grand Bank — w'e were in soundings in American waters, and in the ancient and favor- ite field ot New England industrv. The shores ol Newfoundland and Nova Scotia, as we coast- ed along them, seemed to have a claim upon us as a part of our native continent, and ma !e us feel that we had at length crossed the world- dividing deep: — and when about sunrise this morning, after stretching down Jrom Halifax against a stiff southwester, I beheld Cape Ann light-house at a dim and misty distance, I must say that I thought it one of the most beautilul pieces of architecture 1 ever beheld. I do not know to what particular order it belongs, nor the proportion ot the height to the diameter. Andes to the ornaments of the capital, Mr President, w hether they a,e acanthus or lotus, or any other flower in your conservatory, I am quite unable to sav ; but this I will say, that al- ter seeing many ot the finest buildings in the old w'orld and the new, 1 came to the conclu- sion, at about six o’clock this morning, that Cape Ann light-house beat them all! (Great applause,) It would be impossible, sir, to describe the emotions awakened in my mind by the different objects on the well-known coast, as we dashed ranidly up the bay — borne on the iron wings of steam, till at last the welcome sight ol Boston burst upon me, as she sits enthroned between her sister heighis, presenting to me, as it were, within her family embrace and immediate vi- cinage, every spot most dear to a man on earth — the place of my birth and the haunts of my childhood, the scenes of my education and early lile, the resting place of my fathers — every- thing, in short, which a tender and dutiful pa- triotism comprehends in the sacred name of home. Ladies and gentlemen, I cannot say much to you this evening. I need repose, bodily and mental, and would gladly find it in listening to the eloquent voices of lho.se around riiC. Some painlul feelings crowd upon me. I heard at Halifax the mournful news of an event which has deprived us this evening of the presence of one, whose countenance was the light of every circle he entered; whose death will be fell, not in America alone, as a public calamity ; from whos“ long-tried friendship I had promised my- self a cordial welcome on my reiurn. Allow me, sir, the gratification and solace of being a listener ; and let me only express the hope, that alter more than five years’ absence, during which period, time, I dare say, has been doing his w'ork on the ou’er man, you will find the I inner man unchanged in all that you ever ho- I nored with your indulgent and friendly regard, I and to assure you that I reiurn with no wish or ambition but to engage with you in the per- formance ol the duties of a good citizen ; in the hope of sharing with you the enjoyment of the prosperity with which a gracious Providence has been pleased to bless the land in which we live. I The Chair then announced — 'Phe I^farshjield Farmer — “Ail hei^d in counsel, all wisdom in sp^-ecli” — always ready to defend fhe soil, and lo make ihesoil more and more worth defending. The Hon. Daniel Webster then rose and said, Ladies and GenJlemen — There are far better farmers in Marshfield than 1 am, but as I see none of them present, 1 suppose 1 am bound to lake the compliment to iiiyselt. Mr. President, I had the honor of partaking in the origin and organization ol this Society, and you will bear me witness that it was then a dear and cherished object to me, and I may add that among those w-hu co operated in that or- ganization, no one was more assiduous or more effective than that great man whose departure has just been so feelingly alluded to. It has so happened that since that time, the circum- stances and pursuits i t my life have rendered it impossible for me lo be present at many of your meetings, yet I have seen wiih f leasure ard de- light the continued progress of the institution. Mr. President, as it has been said f'om the Chair and in the sentiments around the table, it is our fortune in New Bngland lo live beneath a somew hat rugged sky, and till a somewhat hard and unyielding earth ; but something of hardness, of unlavorable condition and circum- stances, seem necessary to exciie human ge- nius, labor and skill, and bring forth tl e resulis most uselul and honorable to man. I greatly doubt wheiherall the luxuriance of the tropics and all that grows under the fervid skv of the equator can equal the exhibition of flowers made to-day amid these Northern latitudes. Here, there is all the brilliancy of color and all the gorgeous display of tropical regions — but there the display is made in swamps andjun- glfs abounding in noxious refUiles; it is not the result of cultivation, la.sle and human labor working on the capacity of Nat ure. THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 3 Sir, I congratulate you that our flowers are not “ born to blush unseen And waste their sweetness on the desert air ” The botany we cultivate, the production ol the business ot horticulture, the plants ot Uie gar- den are cultivated with us, by hands as dehcate as their ov.'n tendrils, viewed by countenances as spotless and pure as their own petals, and watched by eyes as brilliant and luli ol lustre as their own beautiful exhibitions of splendor. (Applause.) . Horticulture is one pursuit of natural science in which all sexes, ages and degrees of educa- tion and refinement unite. Nothing is too po- lished to seethe beautr of flowers, nothing too rough to be capable of enjoying them. It at tracts, gratifies and delights all. it seems to be a common field where every degree ot taste and refinement may unite and find opportunities lor their gratification, Mr. President, I will take the occasion to ac- cord to the sentiment of the honorable Secreta- ry ol the Coinmon wealth, and congratulate you on the return of our worthy friend who has just spoken. He finds here no enemy, and in the exhibition ot the talent which he possesses, of his classical learning and his popular orato- ry, he finds only one rival, but a very daneer- ous rival; il he maintains the cjrapeiitson with that rival he has nothing to tear, and that rival is his own reputation. Mr. President, we who belong to the class of farmer.s, are compelled to biing nothing but our ap[)lause to those whose taste, condition and po- sition, enable them to contribute these horticul- tural excellencies which we see aiound us. But the honor belongs to the State, and 1 shall not trespass beyond the bounds ol reason and justice, if 1 say that there could nowhere—wo- where — be a more perfect and tasteful exhibition ol horticultural products that we have v/iiness- ed in this town the present week, t^ei this good work speed. May this iiselul and good work goon prospering and to prosper. And as we live in a country which produces a race of hard working men, and the most useful fruits ol the earth, so let us show every year that it is not less productive of beautilul flowers— as it certainly is not of gracelul hands to wreathe and entwine them. (Applause.) After a song and several toasts, the following was announced : Harvard Univers ty — The flower-bed of ihe State — the garden that produces plants whose bloom is peren- nial. The Hon. Josiah Gluincy replied as follows ; Having been told by the chairman that this beirg a sentiment in honor of Harvard XJniver- sity, it was expected that he should respond to it. he should do it most willingly; although he was no longer officially c nnecied with tnat in- stimtion, and now claimed only the enviable distinction which he had enjoyed fur two days, of being a citizen of Boston. He had come, however, to that meeting with no purpose of speaking, but with the sole intention to enjoy. He had attended the exhihitiun, and while there had exhausted every superlative of honor in the English language, in expressing his graiifica- fion and delight. In the Horticultural Had he hdd witnessed the wonders wrought by the Flo- rist’s hand; he had there seen what man could do by labor and taste to enlarge, beautify and multiply the bounties ol nature; he had seen how art and wisely employed capital were per- mitted by Heaven to improve its own gifts ; and had felt how impossible it was by language to express the beauty of fruits and flowers, ■which nature and arthad combined to improve. Nor could he refrain from reflecting that all, ail was the work ot vreU directed industry. Under the influence of which thought, he asked leave 1.0 propose as a sentiment — 77tc Blessings nj well directed Industry — “ The sonre® of every geiiUe arl and all the soft civilities of life."' A song followed, then’ several toasts, and a short speech by the Rev. Mr.Codman, when the Chair called upon the cle.gymen present to re- spond to a previous toast, and the Rev. Mr. Choules follow-ed : He observed that his profession was accus- tomed to calls— this was one he would decline, but as he w'as not demanded to speak on proba- tion, he would at the “call” of the chair, offer a lew remarks simply to slate an historical fact. Mr. Shepherd, the accomplished conservator of the Botanical Gardens at Liverpool, is ihe auihoriiy lor the following anecdote, respecting the introduction ol Ihe elegant flowery shrub, the Fiischia, into the green bouses of Europe. Old Mr. Lee, a well known Nurseryman and Florist, at Greenwich, near London, about fifty years ago, w’as one day showing his variegated treasures to a person, who suddenly turned and said, “ W ell, you havenot in your whole collec- tion, Si) pretty a flower as one I saw to-day in a j window at Wapping!” “Indeed, and what was this PhcEnix likeT’ “ Why, the plant was beautilul, and the flowers hung down like tas- sels from the drooping branches, their color, was the deepest crimson, and in the centre, a fold of rich purple.” Particular inquiries were made as to the ex- act whereabouts, and Mr. Lee posted nft'to the place, where he discovered the object of t.is I'mr- siiit, and immediately pronounced it a new plant. He saw and admired. Entering the humble dwelling, he said, “ my good woman, this is a nice plant of yours, I should like to buy it.” “ Ah, sir ! I couldn’t sell it for no money, it was brought me from foreign parts by my hus- band, who has gone again, and I must keep it lor his sake.” I ■“ But I must have it.” “ No, sir, I can’t sf are it.” “ Here,” emptying his pockets, “here is gold, silver and copper,” (his stock amounting to more than eight guineas.) “ Well a day, sure this is a power of money.” “ ’Tis yours, and the plant is mine, rny good woman. I’ll give you one of the first young ones I rear to keep for your husband’s sake. 1 j will indeed.” i The bar.^ain was struck, a coach called, in which old Mr. Lee and his appaiently dearly j purchased flower deposited. On returning home, his first work was to strip nff and destroy every blossom and bud ; the plant was divided into small cuttings which were forced into bark beds and hot beds, and again subdivided. Every effort was employrd to multiply the plant. Mr. Lee became the delighted possessor ofSOOlus- chias, all giving promise of fine blossom. The two which first expanded were placed in his Vindow. A lady came in, “ why, Mr. Lee, my dear Mr. Lee, where did you get this charming flower 7” “’Tis a new thing, my lady— pretty, is it not?” “Prettv! ’tis lovely! its price?” “A guinea, your ladyship” — and one of the two plants that evening stood in beauty on her lady.ship’s table in he' boudoir. “ M.y dear Charlotte ! where did you get that elegant flower ?” “Oh, ’tis a new thing, I saw it at old Mr. Lee’s; pretty is it not?” “Pr-nty ! ’tis beautiful, what did it cost?” “Only a guinea, and there was another left.” The visitor’s horses trotted off to the suburb, and a third beauteous plant graced the spot from whence the first had been taken. The se- cond guinea was paid, and the fusebia adorned another drawing room of fashion. Thisscene was repeated as new cal s were made by persons attracted by the beauty of the plant. Two plants graceful and bursting into flower, were constant- ly seen on the same spot. He gladdened the faithful sailor’s wife with the promised flower, and before the season closed, nearly three hun- dred guineas jingled in his purse, the produce of the single shrub from the window at Wap- ping, as a reward ol old Mr. Lee's taste, skill and decision! I am happy to be present on this joyous oc- casion. I wish many ot my brethren were here — the place is full of instruction, and is a field lor usefulness. Some ot my most plea- surable reminiscences are connected with agri- cultural and horticultural employments. They are in unison with God’s plans and human na- ture. At your last festive occasion, one of the ornaments of our community observed that “he felt delighted when he saw the laboring man walk through the streets of Boston carrying home a potted plant under his arm, because he felt convinced ot the love of nature and virtue that was exhibited.” Sir, the mechanic cannot come into competition with your rich men’s gardens and greenhouses. You have no reward to stimulate such humble skill as belongs to the cultivation of the window plant. I have the pleasure to say that I am authorized by a libe- ral friend to announce a medal at the disnosal of this society, tor the best single potted plant produced by the mechanic, female or child at your ne.xt exhibition. The Bon. Robert C. Winthrop replied to a toast as follows: 1 am greatly honored, Mr. President, by the sentiment which you have just offered, and 1 beg the ladies and gentlemen before me to ac- cept my most grateful ackno xtledgments for the kindness and cordiality with which they have responded to it. 1 heartily wish that the com- pliment were belter deserved. I wish that even in reference to matters of Horticulture, I had done more to keep uo the credit of that old Ge- nealogical Tree. One of your Anniversary Orators told us some years ago, iff remember rightly, that among the earliest records in re- gard to the production of fruit in this ueighbor- houd, was the account ol “a good store of pip- pins” which was forthcoming upon some occa- sion from Gov. Winthrop’s garden. It would be thought no great things to raise a good store of pippins now-a-days, I suppose. But two hundred years ago it must have been something of an achievement. Our fathers had not many apples to regale themselves with. The fruits to which they were obliged to turn their atten- tion, were of a more substantial and practical character. Theie is an old song still extant, called “ Forelalher’s Song,” supposed to have been written in 1630 or thereabouts, which gives us an amusing insight into the flori icu! lural labors of those early days, an — " and not to suffer.” He actually said, howev- er. “and not to speak.” Verily, I think the two words to be quite synonymous. It is not for want of will, that 1 thus decline to make a speech. Indeed it is one of the diffi- culties— nay, it is one of the seveiest trials of our frail human nature, that our desires, our aspi- rations, so far outrun our abilities. I want to make a speech, and ray aspirations prompt me to make a good one. Even with the knowledge that such gentlemen as have al- ready spoken, were to be here, I have dared to aspire to making a speech as good as theirs. 1 cannot tell you howl have been exercised upon this matter, ever since 1 rose this morning, to say nothing of ray sleeplessness last night, how I should rejoice to warm and stir and enkindle this audience. But the moment of action has come, and yet, I am powerless. Truly, sir, my spirit is willing, but alas the flesh is weak. And then the topic to appropriate to the occa- sion— what chance is there for anythin? new I There is the garden of Eden— ^a capital theme in its primeval state. But such hosts of inva- ders have taken possession ot it, that its guar- dian angel must have slept upon his post, and there is no room for another settler. Fruits and flowers have been so thoroughly sung, that they have almost withered before the quantity of wind that has been blown upon them. And as for woman, she has been so often toasted, that, as some wag once remarked, our directory would soon cotitain no other name than that of Brown. I heard a story the other day, which, as it il- lustrates this difficulty, and is a short one, per- mit me to repeat it. It was of an unmarried man, who, though he pretended he was not mar- ried, because he had never tried, was yet known to have made more propositions, and received more rejections than probably any man living. He was in the habit, too, of making his propo- sitions after a very short acquaintance. Upon one occasion, he met with a lady in a railroad car, who particularly struck his tansy. He procured an introduction to her, and set about his usual attentions. The lady, having been informed of his habit, humored the matter through the day. As they approached the end ot the day’s journey, the gentleman made his usual proposition of marriage. The lad}" re- plied with great seriousness — that the subject which he had proposed was a very important one, and ought not to be hastily decided- that she would take a little time to consider it, and if he would call at her house in the morning, she would give him an answer, as in the meantime she could consult her husband. He had actually offered himself, Mr. Presi- dent, to a married lady! Just such, sir, has been my faie all dav, in seeking a subject for a speech to-night. Every one I applied to has turned out to be eithar engaged or married to somebody else— and heaven forbid that I should break off any match. Beset by all these difficulties, sir, I repeat I cannot make a speech to-night, and as a me- mento of my sufferings al' day, I give you as a senliment-- Tke viiscru of table puhlir spr. king — Equalled only bj that of seeking a wife in vaiv. Many other toasts were given and speeches spoken, for which we have not room; and the amount ot the whole affa.r in the Boston Jour- nal is concluded thus; Such were the ihoushts advanced on this blight festal occasion, and uttered in ihe pre- sence of a vast assembly of brilliant women who graced the celebration by their presence, the whole commemoration fully justifying the sentiment of the Hon. Mr. VValley, who gave, “The trio of this Festival, Flora, Pomona, and the daughters of Eve.” As an entertainment it gave the highest satisfaction, and it passed off like similar events, on the wings of time m rapid fieetness, leaving, however, a very plea- sant memory on the minds ot ever participator. We trust that the next triennial celebration of the Society may be equally successful, and with this, our hearty wish, we add a volunteer senti- ment ot “Health, prosperity, and long life to the Massachusetts Horticultural Society.” .VBKRESS OF R. P. SASNETT, Esq. A MEMBER OF THE CLUB. Delivered before the Planters’ Club of Hancock, al their Annual Fair in Sparta, \st November, 1815. Mr. President and Gentlemen of the Planters’ Club of Hancock: — We have assembled to-day 10 celebrate the fourth anniversary of our Club. Four years have elapsed since a few ardent and enthusiastic votaries of agriculture, actuated by a spirit of improvement, and a zeal for the ag- ricultural prosperity of our country, met under much embarrassment, encountering the sneers ot some, and the ridicule of others, and organ- ized this association. It may not be unprofitable or inappropriate to the occasion, here to inquire v hat practical utility has resulted to the people of this county from the formation of this club. Hts it teen instrumental in materially improving the agri- culture of this county in any ot its departments'? Has it caused one bushel of corn, or one pound of cotton more to be raised than would other- wise have been produced w’ithout its existence 7 I answer emphatically and unequivocally, it has. The institution of this club has been of incalculable service to the people of this coun- ty ; lor no man of common discernment, pre- viously acquainted with the agricultural condi- tion of Hancock, can fail to perceive in travel- ling over the county, that there has been a man- ifest improvement w’ithin the la.st four or five years in the husbandry and rural management of our f irmers. But it may be inquired, what are the particu- lar benefits w'hich this association has conferred, and the mode by which it has been accomplish- ed? To its instrumentality the dissemination of agricultural periodicals is to be chiefiy as- cribed, which is the fi-rst great preparative step to improvement. Its liequent discussioi^ td agricultural subjects has excited a spirit of inquiry and investigation among its members. By its annual lairs, exhibitions ot stock, and reports on premium crops, the farmer’s pride has been aroused, his ambition stimu-lated, and he has gone away from these exhibitions with a more elevated conception ol his vocation. The pursuits of agriculture have become not a mere business of dollars and cents — not a mere means, in popular parlance, ot getting a living, but a business of pleasure. In this wtiy a de- - gree of fixedness' and stability has been imparted to our before restless and roving population, never before enjoyed by this community. By the agency ol this club, a spirit of improvement has bees excited, from w’hich has resulted al- most an entire abatement of that mania for em- igration w'ith which our people a few years ago w’ere affiicted. For, previous to 1840,- there fiow’cdfrom this county, one continued stream of emigrants to the w'est. Hancock w'as part- ing, year affer year, with many of her best and intelligent citizens, who carried with them much ot her wealth and influence. Since that time, not only has emigration almost entirely ceased, ^ut she has had large accessions to her popula- tion and aggregate wealth. As an evidence of this fact, her VC ting population has increased more than one hundred and tw'enty in four years. At the Presidential election in November, 1840, Hancock polled 7*23; at the Presidential elec- tion in 1844, she polled 845, It is but just to presume that this was a lair »est of the voting population of our CoUnty at both periods; and it is believed that her black population has even increased in a much greater ratio. Again, by reference to the tax books of the county, it will be seen that the aggregate in- crease in amount of Stale tax, within the last two years, commencing from the time the late tax law w'ent into effect, is upwards of $650, showing a gradual increase also in the taxable property in the county. But there are other facts wffiich demonstrate more conclusively the benefits rebuffing from this association of farmers. It is universally admitted’, that this has been one ot the most try- ing years to the farmer which w'e have had since the memorable yeai 1818. Indeed, I have been informed by gentlemen older than myself, who recollect well the disasters of that year, that the drought this year exceeded the drought of that year; that it commenced earlier, and continued longer, and that, altogether, much more rain fell during the spr ng and summer of 1818, than in those seasons ol 1845, and yet though the county was then comparatively Iresh, and the land much stronger, there was far less made, and the alarm ol scarcity much more general. Corn sold in the fall of 1818, as 1 have been credibly informed, from $1,75 to $2 per bu- shel at the pile, and could not have been bought even at those prices, bad not the quantity in market been augmented by the selling out and emigrating ot several of the w'ealthiest planters in the county; w'hereas, corn has been offeied lor seventy cems per bushel de'ivered in this towm, and met no purchase, and actual sales made at sixty-two and a ball cents. But, gentlemen, w’C need not refer to other times lor proof of the benefits resulting from the organization of this club. We have in- contestible evidence of its usefulness in the superiority of our system of agriculture over that of Ollier counties in the State in which a sense of the importance of agricultural asso- ciations and of agricultural reformation has not been experienced— for whilst countieswhich have been settled long since Hancock, whose lands are much fresher and equally fertile na- turally, have made almost an entire failure— and wnose inhabitants are compelled to seek elsewhere for corn and other breadstuff's, Han- cock, it is believed, has raised an ample suffi- ciency to support with reasonable economy an increased population— together with two-thirds of an average crop of cotton. I have crc* versed freely with a number of gentlemen of this and other counties, who have travelled ex- tens-ively over the State, and all agree, that the crops of Hancock are decidedly better in the aggregate, than those of other counties in the State through which they have passed. Now, results are the best tesis of the practi- cability of such institutions. Bacon says, that philosophy is best which is the philosophy of fruit. These statistical and other facts, the re- sults of my investigation, I have laid before you, gentlemen, not tor the purpose ot boasting, not that we might assume to ourselves merit beyond that which we deserve ; for 1 am one ot those who never think much has been done, whilst so much remains to be done. So far from adducing these facts lor purposes of this kind, I am convinced that the agriculture of Hancock has abroad far higher reputation than it deserves ; and I have, in my intercourse with citizens of other sections of Georgia, often been put to the blush at the unmerited encomiums passed upon Hancock farming. At all events, gentlemen, it is abundantly evident, that increased exertion is requisite, if we would sustain our characters as farmers] and, which is of far more consequence to us, to continue the advancement already made in this the noblest and most useful of all voca- tions, and it is with the view of urging and im- pressing the importance of keeping in being and perpetuating this association, this combi- nation of effort, this concentration of mind and meatis, to the advancement of agricultural im- provement, that 1 have so far departed from be- 0 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVAT OR. coining delicacy as to have become the tt ump- eter ot our own lame. If has been done that, by ihe contemplation ot ths benefits our asso- ciation has already conferred, and its enlarged resources and capabilities lor good, we might become alive to its true dignity and the useful- ness of its proper aims, and in future he en- couraged to extend its operations and exert us powers on a more ample scale in the accom- plishment of its objects, I have deemed it the more excusable too, in view ot the fact, that many of the staunchest friends, even many ot the most zealous members ot this club, have be- er-m - d.'couTaeed at the prospect before us. Grt-rt fears nave been entertained that the (ail this year would be a failure^ that owing to the fai.ure of tbepremi.im crops, consequent upon the oryness ot the y< ar, the general be- lief that there would oe no exhibition of stock, the display of our fairmustnecef-sariv (all short of the past, and that discouragement .r suing, our club must in consequence cease to live.-- ■ Our enemies, too, have been busy— -those croakers who are ever ready to presage evil to every laudable undertaking — they being too wise themselves to improve, or, as that inimi- table writer, Sam Slick, more happily ex- presses it, “ too sot in their ways to larn,” and tm selfish to allow others to do so— have been pro’ hesying (or years, that our club would fiou'ish whilst it possessed the charm ot novelty; but when divested of this, or an un- favorable year occurs in which there was a failu e of premium crops, and farmers had not c rn to throw away in fattening si#ck for our lair, the Planters’ Club of Hancock would die and be numbered with the things that were. Tliere is another class ot farmers, though I am happy to say they are neither so numerous nor helpless as the one 1 have just mentioned, who nevertheless serve to clog and impede the march ot improvement. They are those who are never able to do anything. Go to them when you will and ask them to give you a dollar and to take the Cuhivator, and they will tell you they believe the Cultivator to be a very good sort of a thing, very useful and all that, but they are not able to take it, haven’t the money to spare; ask them to pay their dollar and become members of the Planters’ Club, and they give you the same answer. All such clod- hoppers (for they don’t deserve the dignified appellation of farmer,) forcibly remind me of the anecdote of the man “who held the six- pence so close, that he could not see a dollar at arm’s length. With all such I have nothing to do, upon “ the present occasion ; for verily they are too sot in their ways” to improve. But I put it to the sober wisdom and enlight- ened patriotism of the members of this Club, and to the community generally to determine, whether they will allow an associaiion to be dissolved which has exerted, as 1 think I have shown, such a satisfactory influence in eleva- tingand improving the agriculture of this county. No, gentlemen, for myself I have no fears that such wil! be the fate of this club. Your patriotism, your character, your prid", your in- terest all forbid it. You are too deeply imbued with the spirit of the age to permit your seal in the cause of agricultural improvement to abate. The power of an association and concentration of eflfort to the accomplishment of thisgrealend, has been too deeply felt, and is too highly ap- preciated by you, to allow you again to relapse that apathy and careless indifference, which has too long characterised the farmers of Geor- gia. There is, perhaps, no instrumentality ever yet employed either by God or man, which has exerted such a wonderful influence over the des- tinies of the world, as this power of association. It is this principle of association which distin- guishes the present from all other ages of the world; it is this which has done so much to humanize and christianize the world— which has sent that blessed book, the Bible, the bjst of all God’s gifts toman, into every land and country — which has planted the standard of the Redeej^ier’s Cross in the remotest isles of the sea, and raised men, in thousands of instances, from that state of ignorance and moral degrada- tion which is “of the earth earthy,” and pointed his soul to a higher and brighter immortality beyond the grave. It has stricken down the thrones of tyrants, and is at this time shaking to their foundations some of the old dynasties of Europe. It has dragged science from the secret chambers ot the scholar, and made it snb- servient to the common business purposes ol life. It has stripped art ol itsempiricism, and is last hurrying man on lo that state of perfection which is to be his ultimate destiny. The agri- cultural classes, though they are the most im- portant, the most useful, and the most numer- ous in all countries, seem to have been the last to perceive arid apply this principle. A bright- er day has at last, however, da wmsd upon the farmer. Scotland, the first to perceive and apply this powerful agency to the improvement of her agriculture, has acted as a pioneer, and now leads ibe van in the march of improvement; England soon followed in her wake — and our more sagacious and industrious countrymen, the Yankees, ha e not been slow to imitate their example. Among ihese the States of New York and fviassachusetis stand pre-eminent. Tnrough their agricultural associations they have succeeded in arousing ."nd diffusing a spi- rit of impruvement which has been felt and at- tended with the. best results in every part of those States. These societies have wrung from their legis- latures large appropriations of money lor agri- cultural purposes. And it is believed, and has been confidenily asserted, that the State ol New York has been amply remunerated for every dollar thus expended, in the increased amount of revenue which has flow’ed into her treasury from the tolls on her canals, turnpikes and rail- roads, to say nothing of the increased amount of revenue from taxation, consequent upon her increased wealth. This Siate is still moving on with a firm and steady step, and with una- bated ardour, in the great business ot agricul- tural improvement. The editor ot the Albany Cultivator, in the last number of that valuable paper, says that the extraordinary interest which for a few years past has attended the agricultural fairs of that State was fully kept up at the exhibition of the Slate Agricultural Society at Utica in September, that iheie were no less than forty thousand persons in atten- dance— that nearly seven hundred head of do- mestic animals, all choice specimens of their kind,#vere brought upon the ground to be shown for premiums - that the collection of domestic fabrics, specimens of the mechanic arts, agri- cultural implements, &c., were no less Rumer- ous; all going to show the immense interest which the people of that Stale taken in the bu- siness of agriculture, and the immense influ- ence which has been brought lo bear upon its impruvement. With these examples before our eyes, gentle- men, what is to prevent Georgia from doing likewise. The people are ready and ripe for it. No more decisive evidence can he offered that agriculture, in its effects and consequences, is beginning to be belter appreciated and under- stood, and the means ol advancing it more fully realized in Georgia, than the number of new societies w'hich have sprung up in almost every section ot the Slate within the present year. The establishment too, of that excellent pe- riodical, the Southern Cultivator, and its exten- sive circulation among our farmers, has already aroused a spirit of improvement which only re- quires to be fostered and sustained to make Georgia what indeed she can and ought to be, one of the first agrioultural States in the Union. All that is now wanting is for the State to aiif in this business. A law similar in character to the law passed by the Legislature of New York in 1841, enacted at the next session of the Le- gislature of Georgia, appropriating some ten or twelve thousand dollars to be divided according t© population, among the several counties of the State, upon condition that each county should regularly organize an agricultural socie- ty, and raise a sum equal to the amount appro- priated by the Stale, would give an impeiur to agiiculture which could not fail lo do for Geor- gia W’hat it has done lor every other State whose Legislatures have had the wisdom and sagaci- ty lo adopt ihis policy. Such a law would be worili all the eighty thousand dollar appropriations to Monroe Rail Roads, and the thousand other appioprialions to sustain and keep up the credit of rotten banks which the Legislature could enact from now till doomsday. I regard the passage ot such a law aspailiculariy needed, and specially called for in the present juncture of the agricultural history of Georgia. As before remarked, quite a num- ber of the counties of the State have re- cently formed agricufural societies. li does not require the gilt of prophecy to fon tell that many ol these Societies must perish and go by the board, if left to rely alone upon the liberali- ty of individual contributions lo susiain them; but if they could receive a small donaiion from the State, of from one to two hundred dollars, it would serve as a nucleus, w’hich could hardly fail to render these societies permanent, and at the same time to extend the sphere ol their use- fulness, To illustrate this more foicibiy, gen- tlemen, suppose the proposition was made to you to-day, that the S*ate would place in the hands ot the officers of this club, the sum of $250, to be distributed in premiums, as the club in its discreiion might think proper lo direct — provided a like sum should be raised by the cit- izens of this county, and placed in their hands, to be disposed of in like manner. Think you there would be any difficulty in raising this amount, or in keeping the soul and body of the Planters’ Club together ? 1 suppose not; fori think you would plank ii up, every dollar of it, before leaving this house. Now these two sums, when added together, would make the sum of $500; a handsome sum to be applied to this purpose, and soon that would be made to tell most immediately, effectually and power- fully on ihe prosperity of the people of this county. There used to be an old adage which was very common before Temperance Socie- ties came about, that “ a spur in the head was worth two in the heel.” This, I ihink, would place a spur in the head, heels and.liandscf every farmer in old Hancock. 1 am aware that ihe opinion pr''vails with many, and is used as an argument, that private cupidity and individual interest will prompt men to this, without taxing the community to lurnish ai tificial stimulants to incite them to do that which it is obviously to their interest to do without such incentives. Now what a practi- cal refutation of this argumciit does the every day conduct and practices of men furnish. I will only mention one among the thousands ot such instances that might be named. It is clearl}'^ to the interest ol every farmer in this county to prevent his land from washing away. It is geneially admitted by the best practical farmers in the county that this can be easily and effectually done at a very trifling cost of labor, by means of hillside ditches and hori- zontal cultivation . And yet how few planta- tions are there in this county that have been thoroughly and effectually ditched. Now, sup- pose this club had the ability to offer a stand- ing yearly premium for five years of $50 for the best hillside ditched pianialion in the county, w;ith SU' h cordiiions and restrictions as would admit of the greatest possible number ol com- petitors, what would be the effect'? Whv there would soon be miles of bill-side ditches cut, where thwe are not now rods. In five years time there would scarcely be a plantation in the county that would not have the requisite number of drains judiciously arrang- ed and constructed, with such strict conformity to hydrostatic principles as effectually to pre- vent the land from being injured by heavy rains. It seems to me, then, that every consid- eration ol public policy and enlightened patriot- ism should prompt the State at the ensuing ses- sion of the Legislature to lend its aia in eleva- THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 7 ting and improving this too long neglected branch ot industry. With these remarks, gentle- men, lest I weary your patience, I leave this paitot my subject. I do so the more cheerful- ly from the fact that you have already intrusted it to abler hands. At a very full meeting in Ju- ly last, this club unanimously passed resolu- tions declaratory of its views upon this subject. A committee was also appointed to wait upon and petition the Legislature to make an appro- priation for this purpose. That committee, I am happy to say, is composed of gentlemen ev- ery way qualified to discharge this important duty ; ana I have no doubt they will place this subject in such a light before the Legislature as will secure for it that careful consideration which its importance detnands. The greatest obstacle now in the way of im- provement of land in this county, is the unac- countable pertinacity with which our people continue to grow cotton at the present low pri- ces, to the utter neglect of almost all other crops. There is nothing clearer than that the grow- ing of large crop.s of cotton is incompatible with the imorovement of land. The amount of labor requisite to prepare the land, plant, culti- vate and save a full crop of cotton to the hand, is so great as to leave no time to devote to mak- ing and applying manure, without which there can be no permanent improvement. That any system of agriculture which im- poses upon the people of a country the necessity of buying a large portion of the necessaries of life, will finally lead to impoverishment and ruin seems to be so plain and self-evident a pro- position, as not to need demonstration. The policy therefore of being dependent upon other States for any portion of our pork, flour, horses, mules, and many other articles which we might easily and profitably raise ourselves, becomes doubly doubtful, when vie consider the low price of cotton, and the vast amount of labor it lakes to raise a sufficient amount of this commodity to purchase these articles. Now, if we can so diversity the agricultural labor of the county as to raise an ample sufficiency of these indispen sable tiecessaries to supply the countv, and could realize in the way of saving w’hat we should lose by cutting down the crop of cotton, it would be a great gain to the county, because it would enable us to substitute a system of cultivation which, so far from exhausting and wearing out our lands, would give us ample opportun ity to improve them. It behooves us, therefore, to weigh well the propriety of cur- tailing our crops of cotton; to rely as much as possible upon our own resources, to live within ourselves, and to raise enough and to spare of everything in the way of .necessaries, which can be profitably raised on our farms. One of the most mischievous and mistaken notions w'hich has ever taken bold of the minds of the farming community, is the nlea that good farming consists in the greatest number of cot- ton bags produced to the hand. This is not true; for it is too often the case, that thin is done at the e.Tpense of everything else. Good farming is the very opposite of this. It consists in a steady, piogressive improvement of land, negroes, stock, farm buildings, fences, and eve- rything that pertains to farm economy, combin- ed wdth fair remunerating profits from the pro- ceeds of crops. This principle is clearly ex- emplified in a majority of instances, by those who have accumulated fortunes in this county by farming. One of the greatest defects in our mode of farming is the want of a proper system of ro- tation of crops. The practice of planting land in corn or cotton for a series of years in succes sion, cannot be too nighly condemned or too readily discarded on every well regulated farm. The better plan would be to divide the farm in- to four fields, and to plant one-fourth in corn, one-fourth in cotton, sow one-iourlh in small grain, and let the remaining fourth lie at rest, and by alternating so as to plant cotton and small grain after corn, combined with a judi- cious system of manuring, our land so far from wearing out and becoming poor, would gradu- ally improve and become rich. This system, whilst it would tend todiminish the cotton crop, would more than make up for the deficiency in the surplus of small gram, and the increased facility it would afford in producing pork, cattle and horses — a surplus of which could always be sold at prices corresponding to the price ot cotton. Whilst we cannot appreciate too highly the importance of the wheal crop, and the proprie- ty of extending its cultivation and improving its quality, yet it is upon the corn crop that we must mainly rely lor our bre idstuffs, and to furnish tood lor our stock. This has become to us of the older parts of this country, the greatest and most valuable of all crops. There is probably nothing within the whole range of agriculture of such vital importance to our farmers as a proper understanding of the best modes ol planting and cultivating this crop. I cannot, therefore, belter improve this occasion than by directing your attention to a few praciical suggestions, the result of my own experience in relation to the cultivation of this important crop. My plan, whenever it is practicable, is to plant corn alter cotton, sow small grain after corn, and to plant corn alter stubble. 1 prefer the drill sys’em lor corn ; I think it has many advantages over the old method ol hill cultiva- tion. I endeavor to have all my upland-and especially il it is tolling— well loriified against that grei test ot all scourges in this Southern climate, heavy washing rains, by cutting the proper number of guard drains, or hillside ditch- es in every field. 1 then lay off my rows hori- zontally, and as near upon a level as 1 can get them. This I accomplish by first laying off a guide row with a level ; and by this gUjide row a smait, active plowman, wiih the aid of a guide stick, commences the business o! laying off" the field into rows. It will he seen, that every subsequent row serves as a guide rov.?; but where the field is very undulating, having a number of saddlebacks and nobs, it is impossible to keep on a level without laying off with the level again, at frequent intervals, other guides, and filling in between the old and new guides with short rows. This plan should in- variably be followed by farmers ju>i commenc- ing this sys em. A better mode, however — one wdiich is attended with much less trouble and loss of time, and is sufficiently accurate for all practical purposes — when you are varvingfrum a level too much, instead of laying i ff a new guide row, is to commence on or near the high- est part of your row, if you are descending the hillside; and if ascending, on the lowest part, and run on, or butt up short .•’ows until you again bring your rows upon a level. This may be done, in most instances, by the eye, without the use of the level. This, however, should not be attempted unless by an experienced and prac- ticed eye, as there is nothiug about which one is more liable to be deceived than in levelling and grading by the eye alone. The guide stick is a very simple though a very useful imple- ment in this business, It is nothing more than a reed or hickory switch, which serves as a measure by which to regulate the width of the rows, which the plowman should keep con- stantly in his hand, and at the end of every row' should lay it down as he would a stake to mea- sure the next row. He should stop frequently while laying off rows, and measure to see that he is keeping his rows the proper distance apart, especially at the ends and curves. By paying strict attention to this at first, he will soon be- come so expert as to lay off his rows more uni- formly of the same width, and have few’er wide and narrow places in them, than by the ordina- ry method ol laying ctf with slakes. But it may be asked, where is the advantage to he gained by all this trouble of laying off guide row's — running rows upon a level — hav- ing so many short row’s, and so much turning and twisting. 1 answer that twelve years expe- rience and observation has convinced me that it is the only practicable method in this climate, and with our system of cultivation, whereby our deeds can be made to bold our arable uplands. It has been handed down to me as a maxim, that land was the safest and surest property which a man could hold in this country; that it did noteat or drink, and that it never dies nor runs away. Now, this may be true so far as the land in the forest is concerned, but 1 am sure it does not hold good when applied to bro- ken arable land ; tor there is no species of pro- perty with which 1 am acquainted, that requires more, and that pays better for high feeding. And most farmers in Georgia, 1 apprehend, espe- cially those who did not plow deep and prepaie well, have been made toleeithis year thatdnnk is indispensable. As to the running away part, I knov/ to my cost, that it is the easiest thing in nature to run away, and the hardest thing in na- ture to bring back again. 1 therefore conclude that the old maxim which says that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, is a much truer and safer maxim to be observed. Six years experience and observation has also con- vinced me that it is perfectly practicable by culti- vating land according to this method, to prevent it from losing b'U very little ol’ its original fer- tility, other titan that which results Irom our exhausting system ol cultivation, viz : exces- sive cropping and no manuiing. But hill-side ditches and horizontal rows are objected to by some, on account ol their taking up and causing too great a waste of land. Now these objectors seem to forget that a ditch takes up much less land than a gully; and they need only travel over some of the counties in the middle parts of Georgia, to be convinced that on many plantations the gullies have appropri- ated by "far the largest share of the land to them- selves; whereas, the ditches would have been pertecily content to have occupied the space of a few corn rows. I am certain that so far as taste and beauty are concerned, all will agree that the gentle curvature of a ditch is a far more comely sight than the yawningchasm ofa gully. Where a field has been ditched, the rows must not be so laid off as to make it necessary to plow across the ditches ; because, by going across, the ditches are continually liable to be filled up by the horses w’alking over them ; care- less negroes suffering their plows to drag across them, tearing the embankments to pieces, there- by making them liable, in heavy rains, to break over and ruin the land below. The better plan is to lay off the rows betw'een the ditches, as though each ditch was the boundary of the field; and by running the rows upon a level, there w'ill be no more turning than in any other w'ay ; for if there are more short rows, there will also be more long ones. The whole philo- sophy ot guard drains and horizontal cultiva- tion consists in this; each row is intended to hold its own water, which it w ill do in ordinary rains, where due care has been taken to keep the rows upon a level by throwing up high beds and by keeping the water furrows in each row well open. But to guard against excessive floods ot rain, such as would fill the water fur- rows and break over the beds, guard drains are cut at proper distances on each hillside, to inter- cept the water and carry it off gradually belore it can accumulate in such quantities as to do serious damage to the land. But there are other advantages independent of these, which I think would go very tar towards recommending this system ol cultivating upland to the favorable consideration of every farmer in Hancock, who has not already adopted it. 1 give it as my deliberate opinion, founded on several years’ practical experience, that broken lands which have been well ditched and cultivated upon the horizontal plan, will yield from 2i> to 25 per cent, more in the way of crops, than when culti- vated according to the old method of planting in hills, and up and down hill plowing. This, I think, I can demonstrate to the satisfaction of every gentleman present, as clearly in theory, as I have demonstrated it in practice on my own farm to my own satisfaction. In the first place, the plow work upon a arm can be much more thoroughly and effect- THE SOUTHERN CULTIVA'l'OE ually done, when a level line is pursued : every I'armer knows who has ever followed the plow, that it is much more difScull to do good plowing when plowing tipland down a hill, especial- ly ifthBhill isat all steep, than it is on a le^ el surface. That the plow is much more diffi- cult to gaide-; that the land cannot be as deeply and as thoroughly broken up, ard’that'it is far more laborious and fatigueing to both man and horse. 1 therefore^cbnclude that the ehances for a deep and thorough pul verfeation of the soil — for a smooth, clean, close cultivation of the crop, (indispensable rei^uisites in good cul- tivation,)—are greatly in favor of horizontal, over up-hill and down-hill ploV/lng. Secondly, a crop planted upon broken land which has been well ditched, having the rows upon a level, will stand a drought better, and M ill be less liable to be injured from protracted spells of dry weather, for the reason that all the rain that falls upon the land during such sea- sons is made available by not being permitted to run off and escape out of the field. Each row is made into a kind of reservoir lor retain- ing water, which is gradually absorbed and ta- ken into the beds to nourish the growing crop; whereas, when land is plowed up and down the hill, when there comes a heavy, dashing shower, as most Irebuently happens during dry summers, the water would rUn off the beds into the middle furrows and dash down the hills with the velocity of waterin a millfall, carrying dlong with it the humus and fine particles of thesoil. From the foregoing facts and observations, 1 think lam fairly warranted in drawing the fol- lowing conclusions : Isi. That, under this system, broken lands are less liable to wash, and will consequently last longer. 2J. That land can be more thoroughly pre- pared for a crop — that the crop can be more effectuallv and advantageously cultivated, and with much greater ease to both man and horse. 3d. That it will stand a drought much better ; and lastly, that it will yield from 20 to 25 per cent, more than when planted and cultivated in hills in the old way. I have dwelt upon this subject more minutely than I otherwise should, from a conviction of its importance to the farmers of Georgia'; for I should rejoice to see the day when the did barbarian Indian method of hill culture, and up and down hill plowing will be scouted* and driven from every corn field in Georgia,' except upon rich level bottom lands, and even then, I think the cultivation of corn in drills decidedly preferable. The system thus recommended will cause our crops to yield a richer abundance; encourage- ment will thus be given to a direction of atten- tion away from the exhausHngsystem now pur-' sued, to such crops and to such objects in hus- bandry as will allow of the most enlarged, per- manent improvement ot our agricultural inte- rests, which, indeed, is the legitimate design ©f our association. Let us aim at this, and al ways remember that it is our business, by the influ- ence of both precept and example to recommend and establish that system which, while it se- cures fair remunerating profits, furnishes the greatest facilities lor the permanent improve-: ment, as well ot our lands, as of our modes c>f' cultivation. I cannot permit this occasion to pass without congratulating this association, whose organ 1 am to-day, on the encouraging interest which the ladies of our county have, from the com-; mencement, manifested, as well in its objects as i in Its success. The very large part they con- tinue to take in our fairs— the very great extent to which they have always contributed to the interest and profit of these occasions, by such exhibitions as pertain to their peculiar depart- ment of domestic economy ; and their presence to-day in so large a number, evince that their interest is yet unabated ; and whilst it assures us that ours is an elevated ahd noble cause, fur- nishes an ample guarantee, that if faithful to our own high trust, we shall not be deprived of the power! ul aid of their influence and patronage. ®I)C 0oittl)£rn ^ulttuator. AUGUSTA, GA. VOL. IV., RO. 1 JANiUAKV, 1846. To Editors. — The Editors of miscellaneous an^ political papers with whom we exchange in the South, are respectfully requested to no- tice the reception of this number of the “South- ern Cultivator,” and call the attention of their readers to the work. Reader !—whe'her you be aCultivatorof the Soil, a Mechanic, Laborer, Clergyman, Physi- cian, Lawyer, Merchant or Statesman — we ask you to give heed wiiile we address a few words to you, in reference to a s ibject which pertains to your interests as well as our own. It is equallyiyour duty as ours, to endeavor to pro- mot^ie well being of society, and to this end should our energies be exerted. Regarding this a high moral obligation, we are seeking to pro- mote the great interests of society by the publi- cation of an Agricultural Journal, whereby we may improve the Agriculture of the South, and increase the happiness and prosperity of the people. In this you are all interested, either directly or indirectly; foras Agriculture is the basis which sustains all other pursuits, so when it flourishes all other business feels its influence and is alike prosperous— and on the contrary, when it is depressed, no class of society escapes its influence. You are all and each of you, ^very man, of whatever business or pursuit, interested in'ihe success of Agriculture. Our object therefore is to ask you to do good, not only to those around you and society in general, but to do good to yourselves, by using some ex- ertion to extend the circulation of the “South- ern Cultivator.” All of you have neighbors and friends, whom you can persuade and in- fluence to become patrons of the work. See them, and endeavor to induce them to unite in sustaining a work which the most intelligent men of the country think is destined to exercise an important influence upon the prosperity and happiness of the people of the South. The cost is a very 'small “sum, only One Dollar a year, an amount which every man can afford to pay. Reader! you can certainiy obtain lor us one subscriber — perhaps ten, twenty, or one hun- dred—and if our remarks be founded in truth, it is your interest to make the effort. Will you do it? Will you see your neighbors and friends and persuade them to unite with you in a com- mon effort to sustain a work— the objects of which are so laudable? If so, you will not only be engaged in a good cause, but you will deserve and receive the thanks of The Publishers. Solon Robinson. This gentleman, so well known by his writings, to those who have been in the habit of reading agricultural papers, is now on a tour of observa- tion through Indiana, Ohio, Maryland, Virginia, and 30 South as far as Alabama, along the Atlantic coast. He is acting as Agent for the American Agriculturist', 'and, in reference to that agency, the editor asks for Mr. Robinson such attentions upon his travels, as will lend to make them agreeable, and further he objects of his tour. — It will be Mr. RoUinson’s study, the editor says, to make himself useful wherever he goes, and he may be emphatically styled the Agricultural Missionary of the land. He has travelled over moat of the United States, and possesses a large fund of information to coirmun'icate, as well as disposition to acquire more. We are persuaded, the editor continues, that Mr. Robinson’s recon- noissance will be particularly agreeable at the /South; lor upon the subject of which South- erners are somewhat jealous of interference, we can assure them that they will be pleased "to com- municate with him. Charcoal on Wheat. We have heard of several of our subscribers who are trying what efl’ect the application of charcoal will have on their wheat. We hope we shall have from them in due season, an aiacount of the result of their experimertt, whatever it may be; for practical men are offt-en as much benefit- ted by an account of the failure of an experi- ment, as of its success. In the meantime, for the encouragement of those who are stilj disposed to try the same ex- periment, we copy from the Genesee Farmer an account of the result of an experiment in the ap- plication of charcoarto wheat in Ohio. “ To prevent rust, Mr. Haywood, of Buffalo, has used charcoal with signal success. Mr. H. is the owner of a tract of sp'enaid wheat land near Sandusky, Ohio, where he has two flouring mills. He has kir.dly furnished us'with a plot of seven wheat fields, taken for experiments this season, with the results,'V/hich follow: No. 1. 20 acres. Applied 50 bushels of coal, ground fine, per acre. Yield, 25 bushels of wheat. per acre. No. 2. 4 acres. No coal applied. Wheat badly rusted. Yield. 5 bushels per acre. No. 3. 15 acres. Uoal as in No I. Yield, 25 bushels. No. 4 25 acres Coal as in No. 1. Y'ield, 35 bushels per acre. Note. — No. 4 Was seeded with "oW'lo/teal. No .5 15 acres. Coal. Yield, 25 bushels per acre. No. 6. 8 acres. No coal. Yield, 5 bushels per acre. No. 7. '6 acres. No coal. Yield, 3 bushels per acre. “ The soil, culture, &c., precisely alike except the use of ^0 bushels of coal per acre as designa- ted— sown in April and May. The soil abounds in lime and organic matter. “Mr. Haywood will apply 10,tX)0 bushels of coal to the fields to be sown in wheat this au- tumn. It costs him "^30 per IDOO bnShels. T^e grinds it in a common bark mill used by tanners.” Soutlieru Iiidepeudeiice. Nothing pleases us so much as to be able to record any' evidence, however slight, of a deter- mination on the part of the South to rescue her. self from the miserable habit of depending on others for what we ought lo make ourselves. — Such evidence is furnished by a late number of the Wetumpka Argus, and we 'copy it with very great pleasure indeed. We would like very much to be able to inform our readers what Messrs. Cooper & Stroup are doing ill the same line, in Cass county, Georgia. — Will not Mr. Cooper give us the means of in- forming our readers on the subject ? “Alabama Castin'gs.- -That loa'd of fine cast- ings, which was left at the store of Messrs. A. P THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 9 & .1. C. Langdon, last Monday, was Alabama manufacture. It was from the furnace of Mr. John M. Moore, in Benton county, it is saidby those who profess to be judges, to be a first rate article — superior to Eastern or Western castings for toughness and standing the fire. We believe it to be a superior article — cheap, too, as it can be bought anywhere: and we trust that Alaba- mians will buy this ware in preference to that which is imported. We say, give the preference always to Home Manufactures— encourage those of our fellow-citizens who are engaged in those undertakings, come what may. It is our true policy — interest, as well as State pride, should influence us. “Mr. Moore is now six thousand pounds of castings a day, and can make more if the de- mand requiresit. He has a large supply on hand, and is preparing boats to take large quantities to Mobile, as soon as the river rises. He thinks he can sell as low, and lower, — and give a better article too,— than the Northern and Western manufacturers can-; and if so, we really hope our Mobile dea'.ers will give him the preference We think he may claim a fair trial at their hands. ’ Dogs. Things will come right after ii w‘hile here in the South. As to the intolerable nuisance of dogs to wool-growers, vve did hope’thdt there would have been boldness ^enough ‘found in the Legislature of some Southern State to make a movement towards its suppression. We have been disappointed in this very reasonable hope, so far as Georgia is concerned, it is true; but'in South Carolina the ice has been broken. Yet even in that State, it seems that those ►rndking the movement, at last hesitated, and “agreed^to keep the matter under consideration.” — The correspondent of the Greenville Moun- taineer, writing from Columbia, on the 8th of December, says ; “The Committee on Finance and Banks have had under consideration a long memorial from the State Agricultural Society, asking Tor a Tax to be levied on all Dogs, for the protection of the Sheep-growing interests of the State. Mr. Boyce moved in t'lommittee to lay a Tax of one gs.” Just across the Ohio river, in the State of Ohio, such depredations are not allowed. There, our foolish southern notions of personal indepen- dence are not indulged in. Every man considers his personal interest identified with the interest 'of the whole community. Whatever destroys the property of his in ighbor is considered as-in- juring himself, as it diminishes the aggregate of the property Of the county. Hence, they are not only ridding the country of dogs, but also pass- ing laws to make the stealing of fruit and the destruction of ornamental trees and shrubbery something more than a mere trespass. Tfseful Measure. We find under the head, “Valuable Table,” an article in many of our exchange papers, profes- sing to give the dimensions of curtain measures ■of capacity, in every day use arr.ong planters. 'It was prepared by James M. Garnett, of Essex county, Virg'nia, and was first published in Mr. Ruffin’s Farmer's 'Register. Wherever we have seen it recently, it is full of errors— so much so, that if any one shall have made his boxes accord- ing to the table, and used them, he will have very much wronged either himself or his neighbor. We have corrected the figures, and the reader may now depend on having it, as Mr. Garnett made it. accurate within a small fraction of a cubic inch. The standard English Corn, or Winchester, bushel contains 2,150 2-5 cubic inches, for the di- ■mensionsof the Winchester bushel are, by stat- j ute, 8 inches deep, and 18 1-2 inches in diameter, j Remembering this, every man may easily verify j the dimensions in the table. I MR. Garnett’s table. [ A box 24 incnes long, 16 inches wide, and 28 inches I deep, will contain a barrel, or id 752 ci)bic inches, j A box 24 inches long, IG inches wide, and 14 inches I deep, wil I coniai n a half b rrrel , or 6.376 i nches. I A box 16 H. 10 inches long 16 inches wide, and 8 inches i deep, wi II contain a bushel, or 2. 150 4- 10 cubic inches, i A box 12 inches long, 1 1 2-10 inches wide, and 8 inches i deep, WI II contain a half bushel, or 1.07 5 2 10 cubic inches. A box 8 4 10 inches long. 8 inches wide, end 8 inches deep, will contain one peck, or .537 6 |0 cubic inches. A box 8 inches long, 8 inches wide, and 4 2-10 inches deep, will contain one half peck, or 268 8 10 cubic inches. A box 7 inches long, 4 inches wide, and 4 8-10 inches deep, will contain one half gallon, or 134 410 cubic inches A box 4 iticbes long, 4 inches wide, and 42-10 inches deep, will contain one quart, or 67 2 10 cubic inches. This is the form Mr. (Harnett gives bis table. But for convenient reference by those who want to use it, would not the force following suit bet- ter? Length Width D-pth. Contents. Contents. Inches. Inches. Inches Cu'>. inch. By name. 24 16 28 10,7.52. One barrel. 21 16 14 5.376 Half “ 16.8 16 8 2.1.50 4 One bushel. 12 11.2 8 1,075 2 Half “ 8.4 8 8 537.6 One peck. 8 8 4.2 268.8 Half peck. 7 4 4.8 134,4 Halfgallon. 4 4 4.2 67.2 Uiie qviari. In connection with these measures it may be useful to have a simple and easy rule to find the -contents of a ciib— corn being often sold by the bulk in this way. Rule. — Make the corn in the crib level. Take the length, width and depth of the pile. Multiply them' together. Multiply their product by 8, and divide that product hy 10. The result is bushels 'and tenths. To the result add one-half bushel ‘for every hundred in the said result, and you have the ti ue contents of the pile of corn within a small fraction of a bushel — supposing it to be shelled. Example.- -tn a pil-e of Corn 12 feet lon.g, 11 feel broad and 6 feet deep— I2i><; 11X6X8=6,336. Divide G.-SSG by 10, and we have 633.6 bushels. Add one half bushel for every 100 3. Conletils in shelled corn. . 616.6 bushels. [f the Corn be in the ear, the content is. .318.3 “ Agricultural Fair in DeKalb. — Theannual Fair of the “DeKalb counly Agricultural So- ciety” took place on Tuesday, December 3. It was its first appearance in that capacity, and it cou d not. therefore, he expected that the exhibi- tion would be either very extensive, or interest- ing. The meeting was very thinly attended, and even many of those attending, were unprepared to make any exhibit of their advances, or success in agriculture. Respect for Labor. There is no mistaking the signs of the times ; and these signs plainly indicate, all over the United States, that the day is well nigh gone by, when labor was considered disreputable. — Look, for instance, to the State of New York; — and see the increasing-interest, every year, taken by the people, in the State Fairs. The last was held in Poughkeepsie, and is thus described in one of our exchange papers : “The Late New York State Fatr — Agricul- tural Enthusiasm — Increasing Respect for Labor. — To those who have attended the succes- sive State Fairs of N. York, comparisons between the past and the present will be at once suggest- ed. Not only the absolute change which is so clearly manifest, but the spirit at work strikes the mind with pleasureable wonder and pride. “Four years since, when the first State Fair was called at Albany, it was considered a matter of doubt wh-ther the great experiment would succeed. It was deemed more than questionable whethereven a sufficient numberofvisitorscould be induced to come there, to pay the expense in getting up these Farmers’ Festivals. That Fair was held, and it succeeded beyond the most san- guine expectation. It was found to be a most at- tractive place to visit. Those who went, mes- senger-like, soon spread the news in their several localises, and those who neglected to go, after- wards regretted that they had lost so much plea- sure. The next State Fair was held at Syracuse. The gathering was large, and the exhibition fine. The next at Rochester, where'Western New York poured out her richest treasures and thousands and tens of thousands of people. In 1844, it was given to the Hudson River (jouniies at Pough- keepsie, an I most nobly did Eastern New York repay that honor, by an exhibition worthy of her past reputation, while the people gathered there not by thousands, but tens of thousands, to cele- brate this great annual holyday. In 1845 the Fair was awarded to Central New York at Utica, from which so many thousands have recently re- turned to their homes, and where the exhibition in the ready useful has surpassed that of any pre- vious year. “At every succeseivejFair there has been an in- creasing interest evinced, until now' the enthusi- asm has become so wide-spread among all classes, that the question is not. Have you I een there? but rather, Have you vot been there '1 One ol the best evidences of this deepening and pervading interest is the increased attendance of ladies, whose presence is thus calculated to dig- nify and adorn '?/!« useful in the Farmer’s life. Four years ago their attendance was limited. The number has increased from year to year, un- til at the late Festival at Utica at least one-half the visitors were ladies : many from distant parts of the slate, and of a class loo, who do n 't usu- ally attend these exhibitions. They came there with their fathers, brothers and mothers to ■com- memorate the great Harvest Home of New York. We allude to this circumstance because nothing can be more calculated to render agricultural ex- hibitions popular with ourpeople, who are noted for the respect they entertain for tlie fair sex. Their influence in forming the tone of public opi- nion is of inconceivable moment, and therefore, we hail their presence upon such occasions, not only as calculated to enhancethe nleasures of the hour, but as tending to give interest to the occu- pation of the firmer, and fo elevate the life of manual labor to that position which it 5ho-iild oc- cupy in the minds of the rising generation of our republic. ■“ It requires but little perception to see that farming is becoming fashionable in this country. Young men of position, wealth and education, now pride themselves upon having a finely man- aged farm, and a superi ir breed of stock. At the late fair we met young men of fortune ai.d fin- ished eilucation scarcely in their majority, who have become farmers, and wh'i pointed with pe- culiar pride to the articles they had raised for ex- hibition. The influence of such examples is scarcely to be esiimated. Ten years since such w'as the diseased state of public opinion in rela- tion to farming, they w'ould have been almost ashamed to acknowledge that they were farmers. But those days of sickly sentimentality have passed, and a healthier and sounder tone is in- fused throughout the State, and we may hope THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. throughout the Union. The cultivation of the soil is now resarded with a real pride. The toil, hardened hand and the sun-burnt face are no longer esteemed a reproach. Labor is approach- ing the true dignity of its position, while the devo- tees of indolence begin to be estimated as they should be, in a republican country like ours. “Though much has been done, much remains to be done. Improvement should be the con- stant watthword in al the details of farming. When anything is to be done, it may be as well done well, as shabbily done, and frequently too with no more e.xpense, and trouble. The great point in all farming should be to get the full worth of the labor and monet expended. The experi- ence of every one will at once call to mind how much is wasted. The comparison and observa- tion of every farmer wif constantly suggest some- thing better. When alterations or repairs are to be made, cotnmon sense would at once say that these should be done in an improved style.” We are happy, too, in being able to produce evi- dence of increasing respect for labor in our own section of the Union. Heretofore, if we mistake not, agriculture was not deemed worthy of more than a casual remark, in our Governor’s Mes- sages, connecting it, in some general observation, with commerce and manufactures. Now, how- ever, we find whole paragraphs devoted to the subject . Extract from Gov. Crincford's Message, to the Legisla- ture of Georgia. “In view of the depressed condition of the ag- riculture of the State, I respectfully submit to your consideration the prorriety and necessity of adop'ing some plan which will give the promise of plenty in the land. The first step will doubt- less be to restore fertility to the fields and procure grains and grasses adapted to the climate. Every experiment faithfully and fairly made will require improved impb-me its of husbandry ; and if relia- ble as a guide for the future, a closeness and ac- curacy of observation wnich shall mark its pro- gress and end. For this purpose I earnestly re- commend that an appropriation of a limited sum be annually expended in the pu chase of the va- rieties of grains and grasses, and gratuitously distributed to the several agricultural societies of the State which are now or may be hereafter fornred. The object is to concentrate individual experiments, deduce general results, and thereby give to this primitive and indispensable occupa- tion that strength which system always imparts.’) Extract from the Messige of Gov. Aihen to the Legisla- ture of South Carolina. “ Of all these, our agricultuie demands the first and greatest consideration. It is the great interest of the State — to which all others are but secondary^, Jts food is the support of all, and its staples sustain Commerce and Manufactures. On its extension and improvem.ent, depend more interests than on all the rest. It bears the chief burdens of the State taxation, and it has received less of State favor and assistance than anv other. Possessing the power of the State, the Agricul- tural in'erest seems rather to have opposed than to have sought for the aid of the State, when that aid might have legitimately been extended to it. There is no School of instruction, no department of the C )ileze, v/here this oldest and noblest *of the .Arts of civilization is taught. The only boon they have asked and received, has been the par- tial, hurried and imperfect examination of the State by the unfinish'’d Agricultural or Geologi- cal .‘survey. Jlany there are, wl o underrate and depreciate the value of this work. It is hoped and b-lieved, however, that this spirit is passing away; and a more enliglftened estimate ot the importance of the measure prevails, .^outh Carolina has the honor of leading the way before all her sister States in this department of im- provement. But uniortunatelv, though she be- gan first, she paused in the work. Others seeing its immense advantages, adopted it. Connecti- cut, with a territory scarcely.equal in extent to one seventh of our State, has employed an able and successful gentleman for a series of years, at great expense, who has just completed a survey of that State. Massachusetts, Maine, New York, Virginia, and others have also completed or now have in progress, similar surveys. Of those which have been finished, several of the States have had ample reports, accompanied by admirable Maps, indicating the localities of valu- able Mines, and Minera's, published at the public expense. The survey of our State, if made with the same leisure and minuteness, could not fail to be attended with advantages fully balancing a'l possible expenditure. The scientific examina- tion of our soils, their analysis, and an explana- tion of their derivation and nature, the exposure of the substances existing amongst us, suited to the improvement of those soils, especially the Marl of the Lower country and the Limestone of the Upper, the disc very of the rich Mines of precious and useful Metals, which abound in our hills and mountain lands, are advantages not un- worthy of ihe highest appreciation. I therefore recommend the continuance of the survey for such ti t e, and on such terms, as will insure its being completed in a manner adapted to its im- portance, and the character of the State.” (fl)riginal (Eommtinicatioits. The Scupperiioug Grape for the South. JVIr. Camak: — As your uselul periodical is calculated particularly to enlighten the farming community in the South ot our country, I trans- mit you lor insertion, .some observations, and an extract ot a letter of mine on the peculiar Southern advantages ot the ScuppernongGrape. I once was doubtlul on this point, from an obser- vation in a letter I had from the late excellent Mr. N. Herbemont, of Columbia, S. C. But I now consider t is mistake w.as in not gather- ing the ripe grapes at intervals of ripening. But now, from various information,! can as- sure you that the Scuppernong is the finest ot grapes South. Mr. Noyes, ot Natcheg, Miss., who remitted to me tor a set of those vines two years since, and got them by way of New Or- leans, aud so up the Mississippi, intorms me by letter, that they did finely, bore well, matured well, and were the finest of truit from the mid- dle till the end of August in his location. And the wine I presented him in the box ot vines was pronounced by ihe best judges of wune al Natchez, first-rate Scuppernong Champagne. He has lately remitted me a bill by letter, and an order for more Scuppernong vines. Mr. Noyes sent late in February tor his vines, and when arriving, thf-y w'ere by late arrival so sprouted and injured, he thought they would not grow. But 1 quote an extract ol his letter to me in April last : “With regard to success, I have exceeded my expectations, seeing their condition on be- ing unpacked. Ot Ihe Scuppernong, I have lost only ten, and they do so well, as yet, that 1 am induced to think they wijl exceed all other grapes in this climate. They open out late in ttie spring, thereby escaping the attacks of our late frosts that are so injurious to all the earlier kinds ; in fact, these vines look so well (nearly all now in blossom.) that they give me more satisfaction than any vines 1 have imported.” Mr. Noyes, under date of September 29th, writes as follows : “ I received your reply, dated June 6th, to my former letter, and the Natchez paper, and as you expr.tssed some surprist al my Scuppernong be- ing in blossom, (as early as April, when in N. Carolina not until June in blossoming,; and wished to know whether the fiuit matured or not at the proper season, I inform you that all the vines that were two years old when I had them from you, (1844) have borne this year, (184.5,) and matured the fruit well, shedding scarcely any at all. They blossomed in April. I gathered the first ripe fruit from them on the I3ih of August, and the last ripe on the 30th ot the same month. Some of the berries were three inches round, (several here have measur- ed 34 inches in circumference.) This grape has been almost the only one this season that has borne, as it has been the worst year for the grape, and almost all other fruit, 1 have ever known in this country. Have the goodness in your next to inform me a little as to your me- thod of wine making. You will find inclosed SIO, lor which you will please send me forty lwo-y?ar old, well rooted Scuppernong vinc.s, packed the same as the last, and direct to J. Noyes, Hollywood, Natchez, Miss., care ot Burke, Watt & Co., New Orleans.” Mr. Noyes names in the above guotatioh a • Natchez paper, to explain which, I quote again from his other letter of April 30th, viz : “ Last Wednesday, I had a good opportunity of opening the bottle of wine you presented me. About 30 members of the St. George’s Society dined with me, and among them are some good judges of a glass of wine. The “ Natchez Cou- rier” of the 25th inst., which I have forwarded, will show you the compliment w’e consider due both you and the wine.” As to Mr. N.’s inquiry about wine making, I will answer him as I inform you, that straining the juice of any ripe grape through folds of woollen blankets, as it comes from the press, and putting in immediately (and shaking well the mixture,) at least one-fourth good spirits, or at least two pounds of sugar per gallon, will make an excellent safe-keeping wine, that will be ready lor use or market in a few months, (instead of years as by European modes of long fermentation ;) and if a sweet as 'well as strong wine, that will not spoil in almostanv situation, is desirable, after the fourth of brandy, to the strained juice add also one pound of sugar per gallon, and shake the contents of the cask well belore putting it away. And I add, if the most palatable and healthlul cordial be wanted, to the juice well strained as above directed, add one- third spirits and two pounds of sugar pergal- lon, and double refined susar if you wish your cordial to excel any of the foreign in market. And I again add, that as to injured wine, not too acid, it may be recovered and made good by putting therein some sugar or good spirits, or both, and letting it stand awhile. But as an encouragement for others to perse- vere in the vineyard enterprise as I have done, I name here as the remit of my past vintage, that I have made about twenty barrels of wine in all the modes above suggested, and from exami- nation I dn not calculate to lose a gallon by spoiling, but think all will prove excellent wine in a few months (instead of years it servilely following European modes of making) fit for n arket, and realize me as that heretofore made, from 75 cents to $1.50 per gallon. I calcula- ted, from former ratio of increase, on lorty bar- rels the past season ; but having advertised the sale of grapes at 40 cents per gallon, and en- trance into my vineyard to partake of the Iruit at 20 cents a person, and commutation tor com- panies, and scarcely any other fruit in this re- gion, 1 had constant abstractions of grapes for about two months— sometimes large numbers of visitors per day, as 30, 60, and at one time 100. And as an evidence ot the prolific nature ot a Southern vineyard, well managed, 1 will here state that the 100 mostly partook or pluck- ed grapes for themselves, (by standing on bench- es and other fixtures, and thus reaching the grapes hanging on Ihe canopies above,) within the space of about a quarter of an acre, (my vineyard is about six acres, the largest, 1 believe, in North Carolina,) and that some, after retiring, returned to notice the altered appearance of the canopies, and reported, that they could not miss the grapes ! As a sample of the appearance of a vineyard, after a few years’ culture, according to “wy American System ot Vine Culture,” 1 will de- scribe the view presented to the eye when ap- proaching said quarter. Nothing is seen for six or eight feet high but posts, ten feet apart, to support the scaffolding above, and the stems or trunks of the vines; or, no stragg'ing, down- hanging branches to impede the passage of wind, persons, or teams. The trunks of the Scuppernong vines, at least twenty feet apart, and of other kinds, (mostly Weller’s Halifax, Norton’s Virginia Seedling, and Cunning- ham,) ten feet. For although 1 have more than one hundred varieties in bearing, I calti- vate but few on one space of ground; and, of the one hundred or more kinds, I consider but a dozen or so good in every respect, so as to be THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 11 profitable in a vineyard; though it is well, for the sake of variety and contrast, to try all good grapes you can proctire {n our country. I say our country, for foreign kinds 1 find not worth cultivating ; or, as well as some iiatives, will ■only tantalize your hopes by rotting ere they mature. I add here, that the Scuppernong will not suc- ceed from cuttings. But to propagate, layers are to be rooted from parent vines, and thence put into the nursery, and afterwards into the vineyard. Trimming in summer, young vines; the old, never. In haste, yours, &c., Sidney Weller. ■Brinkleyville, Halifax county, N. C., Nov. 29, 1845. Practice of Agriculture. Mr. Camak Having promised my brother farmers who read th’ Cultivator, some account of my farming operations, I w'ill now give them, through the columns of that invaluable 'work, a sketch of such matters as I can em- brace in a letter. Now this is complying w’ilh your views. At page 72 of the present volume will be found your request, that the farmers on the Savannah river set down and compare notes with the farmers on the Chattahoochee, and vice versa. In the same piece you request- ed them not to get cn stilts and get the dictiona- ry and go to hunting for big w’ords, but to take their pen and pm down on paper precisely W'hat they would say, tvere they telling over their operations when they met. Now, Mr. Editor, I consider the advice so good, that I, fur one, will try to take it : and permit me here to say, that 1 am astonished to find so few farmers •came forward in the columns of theCuLTiVATOR with their own operaiions, for, as you very pro- perly say, it is by comparing n-otes tnac we are enabled to know what each one is doing, and also learn many important and useful things that would forever lie buried. But I promised you some account of my farm, though indeed it is hardly worth talking about; but, such as it is, it is the best I have gut, and it becomes me to make the best of it l ean. My farm embraces 360 acres of poor pine land, lying on both sides of the Barbour creek, four miles from the beau- tiful town of Eufauln, The creek about di- vides the farm. One side of the creek the land is extremely broken, the other side perfectly le- vel. It is olten profitable to compare years in agri- culture. This can only be done by keeping a farming memorandum or diary. I will there- fore eive you a shor' account of the operations of 1844 and 1845, taken from my farming book or diary, to wit ; ON THE isT PAGE FOR 1844. Say, SCO acres poor pine land at $6 per acre. . .$‘2,160 00 13 hands, mostly boys and women, counted at 10 good hands 5,800 00 Five mules 375 00 ‘One yoke of steers 50 00 Carts, tools, &c 11500 Capital invested $8,500 00 I find the interest at 8 per cent $680 00 'Overseer’s wages, including board.... 300 00 Bagging and rope.. 100 00 Various other expenses 100 00"1,I80 00 The following is tie division of the farm for 1844, as to cultivation : say, in 'Corn acres TOO j Polaloes, rice, &c. acres 6 'Coilofi TOO Oals 50 I Total acres 255 The following is the production : ‘Corn and meat on the farm sufficient for the farm as well as for the family in town. 59 bales cotton made averaging about 500 pounds to the bale. The gross sale of 47 bales sold in the city of New York $‘2,119 63 Expenses on 47 bales to New York. .271 74— $1,837 89 12 bales of inferior cotton sold in Apa- lachicola $‘232 80 Expenses on 12 bales 20 00 $212 50 Total ,..$2,050 69 Deduct entire expenses for 1844. 500 00 Leaving a profit of $1,550 69 The above calculation, taken from my farm- ing memorandum, 1 think is about correct. A large portion of my cotton sokl in New York, brought over 10 cents per lb. The manner of preparing my cotton lor market will be found at page 145 of the second volume of the South- ern Cultivator. It will be seen by the above calculation, the interest made on my farm and the amount invested in it. OPERATIONS FOR 1845. The value of properly set down on the first day of .lanuaty, 1845. the same as the first day of January, 1844, viz:........- $8,500 00 The following alteration as to land cultiva- ted, to wit: No. acres in Corn acres 120 I Potatoes, rice, &c. acres 8 Cotton 80 Oats 50 I Total acres .258 The corn crop has been considerably increas- ed over 1844. There will be considerable fail- ing off in the cotion crop. I see on page 30 of this year’s farming memorandum, that we haul- ed out 275 cart loads of compost manure, pre- pared with the blue mail of this region, and pine straw, about equal parts, and the treading of cattle. But the severe drouth of July and August, so severe always on pine or sandy "and, caused the cotton to cast its squares and young bolls, and instead of fifty bales, which was the crop I planted for, I will not make more than thirty-five. We will this year have no in- ferior cotton, as our cotton was all made early in the season and picked out early ; indeed, we have picked out no cotton this year in October, our small crop having been picked out before last of 'September, as we picked it out as it opened; and now takmg the pains with it that we are, having so little to manage, we are making a fancy article, and expect to obtain 12 cents per pound for it ; for, it is generally known that where a farmer keeps entirely out of debt, and is not conipelled to force his cotton on the market, and makes an extra fine article, he can generally put his own price on it, and nine times out of ten, he will get it. I priced, last year, all my extra fine cotton at 10 cents per lb., when most of the cotton was going at 5 cents, and 26 bales of it brought in July IO4 cents. The cot- ton of the present year is altogether superior to the cotton of last year, for the reason, that we have hfd it in our power to bestow much more labor and pains on its preparation, and we ob- tained a seed that produces a longer and finer staple. Hence, we now price it at 12 cents. There are other advantages growing out of a short crop. I find, at page 180 of this year’s farming memorandum, that up to Saturday, the 8th of this month, we had been 38 days haul- ing marl into our lot — that to make our com- post manure, the marl being within fifty steps of the lot, we hauled with two hands and a yoke of steers, 30 loads per day, averaging ten bu- shels to the load. We set down the labor of two men and a cart and steers at $2 per day $76 CO I find at the above page that we had been 24 days hauling pine straw into the above lot where tv-e prepare on- compost. There being five hands engaged in collecting and hauling Ihe straw, we set it down at $3 per day 72 00 $118 00 We propose continuing until the close of the year hauling in the blue marl and the straw in the lot where our cattle, to the number of forty, are penned every night. I would here remark that our manure lot is dug in the centre and raised all round, so that the urine of the cattle and all is saved. Now, I have said soniethmg of the advan- tages of a short crop. 1 find at page 162 of our diary, that up to Saturday, the 18th ol October, we bad finish- ed sowing our oats; for in this climate we can .sow oats with safely in the fall, as they will stand the winter. I find on page 167, that up to Saturday, the 25lh of October, we had rolled our logs on the stubble land, and had it turned over for a crop of corn lor 1846. Thus, by turning the gr“en grass completely under, it will rot and be much better prepared to make a crop the ensu- ing year. We hope to make two thousand cart loads of compost manure. Should we succeed, we will be able to manure all our level land. As the making a compost manure out of the blue marl and pine straw is rather an experi- ment, I will, if spared, give the result at a fu- ture time. Now, Mr. Editor, in conclusion, I have only to say, that I was delighted to find that the Go- vernor of Georgia, in his message to the Le- gislature of my native State, had so earnestly recommended to the Legislature to make a move in favor of agriculture. Your friend, Alexander McDonald. Eufaula, Barhour Co., Ala., Nov. 15, 1845. The True Policy for Georgia. Mr. Camak: — The cacoethes scribendi is not upon me in the agricultural line, and alter this rnoniiion to my countrymen, 1 would take leave for some lime of a train of reasoning, where theories accumulate like blackberries and prac- tice has so little to do ; especially as f have seen, hy the rejection of certain arlioles, that the Southern Cultivator will not indulge ideas peculiar with me ortoially original. The great question with the plantation Georgians is not so much how to cultivate, or what to rear, as what is the viost frugal or economical plan cf living] and you will please let me talk as I please, though my expressions may be neoteric or novel. A writer in the last Southern Cultivator, N.,” holds this language : “Trivial experi- ments in ti i vial farmingAos been the dead weight which has overburthened almost every agricul- tural paper and eventually created a disrelish which has condemned them to failure.” How unphilosophic I “ N.” certainly madethisp‘r>- fonnd calculation w'whoxxi i\\s hos\.\ lor the de- ductions 1 drew from Socrates’ reasoning u'ere worthy of the gravest contemplation. But ex- amine with me, “ N,” \.\\e philosophy of the mat- ter contained in periodical publications on farming. Everything that may be wrilien, based upon actual experiment, with answering re- sults, if not hitherto conceived, is valuable to the inexperienced, and the enterprising is aided by each successive light; provided, alw'ays, Ac experiment' on them in faithful succession. The chief difficulty with this kind of periodicals, i.s, that they contain so many novel directions, and ever accumulate new, u’hile the first practice on either be not put in motion; and without any operation men grow weary of reading theories, and then abandon the paper: and thus it fails — not from trivial suggestions, for they cannot be “ trivial,” but from lethargy, when those suggestions, however trifling, have never once been practiced upon by the rejectors. If “N.” had been well read in metaphysics — a deep drinker of that Pierian touni — he would easily see the absurdity of hisAiZ against agri- cultural papers, in this view; that atoms ulti- mately firm the mountain, drops of water the river, and rills ihe ocean ; hence, trivial sugges- tions for trilling experiments, in the aggregate, comprise the inestimable value of agricultural operations. Thus, hisendo-rsement of ihearticle of Jethro — a first-rate one — on sheep raising, would, before shepherds with theii thousand flocks can fill our land, ha ve to descend lo much of that he ha ughtily condemns. The sheep-tender must have his irivial directions about ihe diseases peculiar to his flock and their healments — he must have a trifling di.'i-sertation on dogs — a homily on iheAoo/ diseasel and other minute particularities that compose the library of the best sheep raisers and wool growers in other lands. I do not believe \\\\s generalizing majesty as exhibited by “N.” is good for the South just now. Far from it, Georgians are too full of it already, and hence, deeming the policy of the thrifty Yankees — their pains-taking minutiee — their rigid frugality, e\.c.~trivinl, they never advance one step in the career of beneficial in- novation. Even this trumpet-soundingraising of sheep, is sillier than the animal itself, so long as this I.* M 12 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. spirit against triviality prevails, as it is a sort ot multicaulis anticipation, destined to an obli- vion as singular, with none to regrettully pay it obsequies. ' All is high sounding theory— lofty speculation— fantastical discourse — a thing so peculiar with idle, well educated Southern men who have nothing to do, and who are above tri- vialities. And since the attempt may not be ac- tually made, or, it tried, successful, we had bet- ter stick the closer, to day, to “our trivial expe- riments in trivial farming.” is Dame Nature herself a fool when she descends to such incon- ceivable trifling, as to propel the juice up the minute pores of so many trivial items of corn, cotton, wheat or oat stalk? This is what I want to admonish my coun- trymen : to descend, coats off and sleeves roll- ed up,” a Za John Randolph, of Roanoke, to tri- vial duties, and the result wouid tell in stu- pendous generalities, as so many rain drops and small gushing springs make the amaz- ing body or' waters — to buy less foreign and Northern broadcloths, and cassimeres and bom- bazines, each man, lor sell and sons — and infi- nitely less gossamery silks and cotton and wool- len habiliments for wife and daughters — to go it coolly and determinedly for Georgia manu- factured investitures — both sexes — for Georgia luxuries in preference to others, or rather hard and hale old Georgia fare, discarding ail foreign and Northern superfluities that feed vanity without imparting health or the approval of one’s sober conscience; in short, 1 go lor a State or National costume, elaborating fiom our devotional meditations, or unthinking genuflec- tions, the tailors, milliners and haberdashers of London, Paris and New York, and dismissing them. Then, and not till then, would every Southern man’s now lean pockets have a ple- thora of purses— and know not “collapse” — and eac-h purse as it be drawn out by stalwart hands that know not gloves of a summer day! show gold, in the glad language oi once hopeful politicians, “ glittering through the interstices !” Why not hasten — first by humility! — to avail of the manifold blessings of Almighty God upon our then to be flourishing and much loved Georgia. Adopt our fathers’ example, when they cherished, nourished and introduced cot- ton from these shores into Europe — picked it patiently with the hand, as was the custom dur- ing our remembered schoolboy days — or if the gin gave them an impetus, availed of and fol- lowed that impetus with momentum! How much does good indigo sell for ? How much a good silk shirt? How much merino wool? Behold them the effect of the patient, pains tak- ing labor of the Italian, the French and the Spanish peasants, who never abandon trivial oc- cupations to attend grog-shops and talk trashy politics— who dole out upon a task day by day, and supoort an opulent royal house and nobility, w'hen we support only ourselves. Imi- tate them, Georgians! and claim, in fact, your social as well as political imtependence. Dee. 1845. J. J. Flournoy. Cotton Manufactures. Mr. C.imak; — Some twelve months since our country was alive to agricultural meetings. The principal object was, to see if we could not devise some plan whereby w'e might divide our labor, and thereby make it profitable to the farming interest, instead of the ruinous policy of all endeavoring to see who could raise the must cotton, thereby ruining their lands, with- out receiving a p'^oper compensation lor it. I then advocated the diversification ot labor, par- ticularly in this section of country, where we possess greater advantages tl an any other coun- try (within my knowledge,) can boast of. Here we can raise all the different varieties of grain : wheat, corn, oats, barley and rye, in abundance — all fruits that are valuable, either North or South -and more cotton than we ought to raise, though it paid double the price that we realize at the present time. With a healthy region, a plenty of timber, and water power not surpass- ed any where; with all these advantages, why should we complain of hard times, while the remedy is within our grasp? But the difficulty is the want of energy in our Southerners — they have been raised in the cotton field, and they do not believe any other place will be so congenial with their habits as that. For an example, (and no doubt you have found many such,) I will give you a specimen of Georgia character in the way of an anecdote that occurred not long since ; I was travelling in the western part of this State, and believed I could go a nearer route than the one 1 had been accustomed to travel- lii.g. I met a brother traveller, of whom! made some inquiries in regarti to the way. 1 found he was acquainted, and told me of several pla- ces to inquire for on the way. 1 got on for some 12 or 15 miles very w'ell to one of the pla- ces; a man, by-the-ny, w’ho wms well acquaint- ed with the country — 1 inquired if he knew a certain man so ne filteen or sixteen miles from there? He told me he did, but I would find it much farther than that, and undertook to direct me a distance of twenty-seven miles to get there. This, I suppose, was 2 o’clock, P. M. I asked ni-m if there was not a nearer way? He told me there was, but it was mounta.nous and very rough. I informed hioi that was the kind of road I had bee.n travelling all my life, and expected to pursue it during the balance, 1 took the rough road and reached my place of destination about dark. I could here state a good deal more in regard to it, but the above is sufficient for my purpose. Now, it I had been afraid to encounter small obstacles, I could not have reached my place of destination that night. So we should compare our lives to a day. Now, I must confess, I have strayed some distance from the point I had in view, w'hen I commenced this epistle, though I do not know that the digression is much out ot place. My object is to show, if possible, how hard it is to stimulate men to action, it the road is rough over w'hich they may have to travel. As I be- fore stated, last winder I endeavored to show the necessity of diversifying our pursuits, and, among others, recommended the erection of cot- ton factories as one of the most profitable in- vestments that could be made. 1 undertook to show' from observation, that Southern factories, at that time, when properly managed, could not be realising less than 20 per cent, on their cap- ital, ana no doubt, a great deal more. Tnat was fine, even though they had to lay out of the use of their money for three }'ears before they could realize on it. Numbers were wil- ling to go in with me in the erection of one, but I have found, in this, like most other ca-es. men that are the quickest to lay hold, are not partic- ular when they do take hold, and it very fre- quently fails them. So it turned out with my factory. All backed out but one. He was of the right grit, if he would have ventured tar enough. But his subscrip ion was too small to be much aid. Yet, I feel determined to perse- vere. My course is onw'ard, though 1 may never be able to make it profitable. My water power is sufficient, and my works shall be suffi- cient for S50, 000 worth of machinery, though I may never be able to put one-fifth of that amount of machinery in it. 1 have offered to give equal rights in the premises and water power, w'ith all my services, to any persons that would join me in the enterprise. This I believe to be the true policy of the South. If we feel the tariffa burthen let us re- alize the benefit. It we manulacture our own cotton, we enhance the value three or four fold thereby, greatly increasing the profit by reduc- ing the e.xpenses of transportation ; and on all we consume, we not only save the commissions and freights one wav, but both. Besides, w'e give employment to many who are at present a burthen to our country. It also opens a home market for every kind of surplus produce rais- ed among us, and must eventually tend to re- duce the quantity of cotton raised among us. Is there anv person prepared to believe that Georgia is determined to look to the North for all her manufactured artick-s, and pay for them with cotton from three to six cents per lb. Yet, judging the future by the past, we would be compelled to admit it; yes, sir, if we still con- tent ourselves to fravel the old road, (because we know it best,) when we seethe great dispa- rity between the profits of the producer and ma- nufacturer of cotton, our children and grand childien may live to see the day when our coun- try will fi" tilled with manufcctories owned by Northerners, and they the operatives. Now, sir, when I satdowm, my intention was to give you some ot my thoughts in regard to the Cultivator, yet I have gone on until I scarcely have any room left. 1 have made some inquiry among my neighbors, and they are pretty much like my man in my anecdote; they prefer the old way — do not know whether it does any good or not. We have had a dry year and made nothing, and ot a wet year we make plenty, and I fear they feel but little de- sire lor improvement. Men scarcely ever know the value ot education until they feel the want of it. Yours, very trulv, John Webb. Newton Co., Ga., ~Nov. 15, 1845. Irrigation. Mr. Camak: — The late extremely dry sum- mer, causing, in many instances, a failure, and in others a very light crop, shows the necessity ot improved modes in agriculture. No section of the southern country has so many natural a'lvantages to improve land, and consequently increase the product by irrigation. All that tract of country in South Carolina and Georgia above the sandy country, such as is based on clay, would be advantaged by irri- gation. Where the rivulets and streams run out of elevated situations, if, instead of permit- ing them to seek their natural level, bylalling over precipices and shoals, these streams were conveyed in ditches on a level with the point at which they were taken out ot their usual chan- nel, the lands, belo ,v the ditch thus made, would be immensely improved and the production as- tonishingly increased by the moisture that would make its way through the porous earth. And all of what is called the up-country, where there is a considerable descent in the small streams is susceptible of such advantages. It will appear to many, this is practicable; but making the ditches they will view as too expensive, presumingthey must be dug out with mattocks and shovels. Ditches may be made that will answer every purpose with a plow. They need not be deep if kept on a proper level, even through lands covered with trees. When the level is marked, a couiter plow with two strong horses or oxen, if run three times on the line, having an axe ready to cut roots out of the wav of the coulter, and then followed with a turning plow, will open out the ditch very soon and with but little labor. The turning plow' should be follow'ed with a Shovel to throw out loose earth that has not been thrown out by the plow. Three hands w'ith the proper plows should open a ditch ready to receive the v'ater, even where many roots would have to be cut, of a quarter ot a mile in length per day. The ritch is best not to be deep. ITe water running near the surface will have its outlets along roots and between the topsoil and clay bottom, moistening bo.h, and thus increasing the attractive powers of the clay, so as to take (what kind nature is willing to bestow) in nitre to the grasping but invigorated soil, which in that slate is gaping w'ith open mouth lor this natural aid. The soil, if wanted tor grass, soon presents a green sward w'hich resists the scorching rays of the sun; so soon as that is done then the deposit of nitrous matter is abun- dant and enriching. To reap the earliest benefit from irrigation in producinst, is to have the w'ater running in the ditches during the winter. Frost aids very much in fertilizing, and in the absence of a hot sun, nothing extracted by heat, only the genial warmth of the earth in receiving the de- posits extracted fiom the atmosphere and depo- sited by the w’aier, which is kindly and pi'ovi- THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 13 deniially held m reserve by the kind earth to produce the next summer. in plowinglands that have thusbeen under the influence ot irrigation, it is astonishing to see the amount of the rich deposit in many places underground. It will look as if a large quan- tity of manure had been placed there, all of which had been deposited in almost impercep- tible particles with the raany'bubbles floating in the stream. But when we think these mites in the course of one hour are innumerable, the accumulation of a winter of five or six months will make these millions of mites into large and valuable deposits, enriching the soil and pre- senting an increased and improved product. This would appear as if it were designed on- ly to produce grass. I will, at so.ne time, show my experience in improvinglands by irrigation, and the astonishing effect in producing corn, it I should have time to devote to writing. As I have filled my sheet 1 shall present nothing more at this time. Irrigation will make parts of South Caroli- na productive beyond the conception ol the most extravagant. The water will thus be ta- ken from where there is too much so as to do injur}’’, and placed where it is wanted, increas- ing the product ol both. Yours, .‘•incerely, D Rei.n’hardt. Greenville, So. Ca., Oct. 27, 184.5. Improving Soil. Mr. Cam.ak: — Your correspondent, Mr. C. D. Davis, has given his proposed plan of im- proving the soil, and wishes the readers of the Southern Cultivator to point out defects, &c. I will not presume to point out delects, but will give some of m}’ notions, which I hope wi-ll be received, as they are oflered, in a spirit of kind- ness. In the first place, I would like to have the land brotce as deep as possible with a good turn- ing plow, drawn bv at least two, it not four horses; I would like for a good subsoil plow to follow in the same furrow immediately after the turning plow’, and for this plow to be drawn as de'=p as possible, and by as strong a team as the first plow’. Some of the subsoil clay I w’ould like to have mixed with the surface sand. This w’ould give the soil a better body, it would retain moisture better, and the growing crop would not suffer so much from the droughts of summers. After this plowing, I would pass a heavy iron tooth harrow’ over the field to pul- verize and level the surface. This done, I would sow one bushel of rye per acre, and har- row in the seeds. If Mr. Davis sows his corn and peas as he speaks of doing, and then p'ows sufficiently deep to cover the rye well, I think he will be very apt to see but little of his corn or peas thereafter. They would., in my opinion, he co- vered too deep. I would prefer to roll the rye down w'ith a heavy roller, and plow in with a two horse turning plow, the plow going the same way the roller had gone; then harrow once, SOW’ one-half bushel Tory peas per acre, harrow them in and mil. In September, plow in the peas, and again harrow in one bushel rye per acre. In February, roll dowm the rye and plow it well in ; harrow at least tw'ice and roll welL Some two or three weeks thereafter plant corn. In the alter cultivation use no plow ex- cept the cultivator or sweeper, run shallow, so as not to interrupt the sod. After turning in each green cron, 1 would like to have some ten or twenty bushels of lime sown on each acre to correct acidity and hasten decomposition. Like Mr. Davis, I wish to obtain inlorum- tion. Will Mr. Caraak or some of the readers ol the Southern Cultivator correct my de- fecs'] Clodhopper. P. S. Give mv respects to my friend Bucket, and sa}’ to him I am anxious to learn how to feed Bet kshires to profit. C. Pride goeth before destruction, and a haugh- ty spirit before a fall. Plantation Economy. Mr. Camak: — It is probably known to you that I have been something of a correspondent lor the Southern Cultivator. Having made no communication for it the present year, you may perhaps conclude that I have lost my form- er relish for its success; it so, let me say to you that I am far from that ; so much so, that I felt mortified at the commencement of its third vo- lume, that I had such poor luck in getting my neighbors to subscribe for it. I hope neither you or the publishers will despair of making the Cul- tivator profitable to yourselves, as it must and w'ill be both profitable and instiuciive to the greater part of its readers. It is know'n to you that we had an uncommon drouth through this section of country the last summer. The wheat crop was short, on ac- count of the w'orm and fly. The oat crop was uncommonly short, on account ol a dry spring. The corn crop is about iw’o-thirds id' an ave- rage one. The cotton crop from a half to tw'o- thirds, compared with last year’s crop. The potatoe crop is quite indifferent. The pea crop almost a complete failure. On the back of all this, the army worm, or a kind of caterpillar, took possession cd' our fields and pastures about the first of September, and made a complete sweep of our grass. The above named circumstances have put us in a proper frame to study and practice econo- my. 1 now propose togive you and the readers of the Cultivator a sketch of my management under present circumstances, having no doubt but I shall find such management and economy profitable in the most plentiful times. I have one of Mr. R.i>we’s natent Crushers in opera- tion. I have corn ground with the shuck taken off for my pork hogs, and have a boiler made by the description given by IMr. A. Greene, of Greene county, in the first volume of the South- ern Cultivator, dated July 19ih, 1843. There is some six or eight of those boilers in use in this neighborhood, wliich answer an excellent purpose for boiling food lor stock. The benefit arising from the use of these boilers, so far as we are concerned, must be placed to the cre- dit of Mr. Greene, through the instrumentality of Ike Cultivator, as w’e should have known nothingof the value of so cheap an article had the Cultivator never been published. I have (alternately) boiled lor my hogs, collards, tur- nips, pumpkins, potatoes and artichokes, a cer- tain portion of corn and cob meal in every boil- ing, using salt freely. By the use of lour bu- shels of this corn and cob meal added per day to the other articles above named, I find that forty-four hogs of good size are fattening very kindly. I have my corn ground with the shuck on for my mules, horses and work steers. The cobs from which the grain is taken for bread, we have ground and boiled for our milch Cows. Mv mules and tiorses are doing well on the kind of feed above spoken of. I am ol the opinion that my’ crusher will save me at least S’lOO in the way of corn in tw’elve months. I planted about three fourths of an acre of ve- ry highly manured land, both last year and this, in a kind of corn called (about h^ie) Texan Corn, which afforded moie feed for my stock than any five acres I bad in common corn. We commenced feeding with it the first of August, by cutting down at the ground, filling up a large trough twice a day. If the mules left any of the stalk.s, they w’ere thrown out for the hogs, which seemed to delight in having them to chew on. When we first began to cut the corn a second crop came on in the way ol sprouts or suckers, which got to be some six feet high It grows as thick as a canebrake, has thick and soft feeling fodder. The grain comes on the top of the stalks in a branch, which is excel- lent feed for fowhs or anv kind ot stock. I have had some of it ground and bolted, which flour makes tolerable good batter cakes or fritters. I spoke ol a large trough ; let me describe one, as it is worth any planter’s attention ; It is made with four pieces of hewn timber, any length desired, 18 or 20 inches wide. G inches thick ; two blocks of a suitable size, say 6 feet long; the blocks are placed on the ground, two of the pieces laid on these blocks, the othe-r two are set up, one on each side, and the whole clamped together. This is done by boring lour holes W’ith a large auger, and putting in a pin in each hole with a shoulder outside, one in each end of those blocks, and wedges drove to clamp the timbers which form the trough, which is done when the heads are pinned on. My trough is 20 feet long and has a shelter built over it. I forgot to name in its proper place that the kind ot corn herein spoken of, remains green till frost, and continues to grow’. We have cut the last of ours this week. It has been in ibis settlement for three years, I believe. The seed was brought from Alabama. Mr. Pitts, in his communication some time since on the subject of Berkshire Hogs, is con- sidered to be extravagant, though I have to con- fess thatthere has been something of the multi- caulis about them with some men, and thatthey are not what they have been cracked up to be. They are not the hogs for planters, especially those that do not allow more than a bushel of corn per day to something like a hundred head. I am, dear sir, yours respectfully, John Farrar. Putnam Co., Go,., Nov. 15, 1845. Agricultural ilkrting0. STATE AGHIC5JETEJXAE SOCiE'2T. REPORT Of the Committee on the Agriculture oj Georgia. The Committee on the Agriculture of Geor- gia, conscious of their inability to meet the ex- pectations of the Association, will yet endeavor to discharge the duty assigned them. For the purpose of enabling them to do so, they have ad- dressed several scientific and practical agricul- turists; they have also consulted the pages of that valuable peiiodical, “ The Southern Culti- vator.'’ Entertaining but little hope of present- ing new' truths, the Committee regret that they will be compelled lo pass over many old ones that would be interesting. From one or two ol the gentlemen addressed by them they have received communications: from one or two others they had still hoped to receive them. 'The communication from Mr. Jas Camak, is so pertinent and yet so concise, that it will be made the foundation of this re- port. From the communications of other gen- tlemen, had they been received, we might have derived aid bv way of quotation or appendix. Mr. Camak reads — ^‘Athens, Sept. 16, 1845. Mr. Turner, Dear Sir : I have been prevent- ed by bad health from answering your letter of the 15th ult. until now’. '• You ask for hints as to the report of your Committee to the Agricultural Association of the State. I can only make suggestions as to the plan of your report. “ 1. Take a survey of the present condition of the Agriculture of Georgia, and ol the practices which have led to it. “2. Show how we are to remedy the errors of the past and better our condition. “Among the causes which have brought Georgia to w hat she is, I would dwell emphati- cally on the partial action of the General Go- vernment as one of the chief of these causes: taking care, how’ever, not to meddle with party politics. “ Among the remedies, I would insist on the Legislature enabling our State University to give a complete course of instruction in Agri- cultural Chemistry and Geology. “You may thus make a report that will com- mand attenti'm, cotton don’t get up to te7i cents. If that takes place, everything like improvement stops ai once. “ Very truly, yours, James Camak.” Assuming these suggestions as the basis of our report, we will endeavor, 1. To take a survey of the present condiiion 14 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. ol the Agriculture oi Georgia, aud ot the practi- ces which have led to it. The present condition of the Agriculture ol Georgia; —who does not perceive that it is de- plorable indeed 1 Who is not pained with the view of the exhausted helds, the dilapidated houses, the decayed fences, the deserted farms, that so often present themselves 7 Who is noi aware ol the diminished products and profits of Agriculture, and the embarrassments ot Agri- culturists? The practices which have led to these results are obvious. The unremitted cultivation ofour fields, the neglect of a proper rotation ot crops, the failure to rt store fertilizing properties by means ot manure, the continual washings con- sequent upon injudicious methodsol cultivation, the neglect ol judicious ditching and horizontal plowing — these are the practices, or causes, which have exhausted our fields, and impover- ished our farmers. Hence, decayed houses, deserted plantations, and depopulated neighbor- hoods. Hence, the pecuniary embarrassment ol the agiicultural community. But theie are other causes ol the evils of which we complain. “Takingcare notlo med- dle w'ith [larty politics, we would,” as advised by Mr, Camak, “dwell emphatically on the partial action ofthe General Government, asone of the chief of these causes.” We do this the more readilv, as we conceive, with him, that there is an immense difference between party politics and political economy; and that, while weighty considerations require us to keep aloof from the former, the best interests of the com- munity require us to heed the lessons ot the latter. We turn, then, to the unequal action of the General Government, Leaving out ot view all mere party denunciation, let us candidly in- quire whether the action ot the general agent has been impartial and equal, or impartial and unequal? Has it been equally serviceable to all the great interests, and all the various sec- tions of the country; or has it promoted the welfare of some at the expense of others? Has the General Government aflbrded equal protec- tion and encouragement to all the great interests of the country — to East, West, North, South and interior? Have taxes and duties been so levied as to bear equitably on all the various interests and sections? Have the revenues ot the Go- vernment been expended w ith a single eye to the general good; or have sectional and partial considerations largely influenced public exac- tions and public expenditures? Have the pub- lic lands been managed for the equal benefit ol all? The Committee will not attempt to answer these questions; they will not attempt to occu- py the wide field belore them. The condition of different sections, and different classes, w’ill answer these inquiries; the records of the coun- try will answer them ; the recollections of our lellow-ciiizens will answer them. All know the efforts which have been made to sustain some ol the great interests of the country; all know' the favors which have been extended to the new States; all know the unequal expendi- tures ot the publio money in different sec- tions; all know the difference in the actual condition of diflerent sections of the country. — Nor can a difference in local situations, local institutions, and local habits, fully account for the prosperity which is maniiest in tl e condition of some, and the adversity wdiich is manifest in the condition of others. The committee are constrained to insist on the partial, unequal and injurious action ofthe General Government as one ot the chief causes of this state of things. We will now endeavor, 2. To “show how we are to remedy the er- rors ol the past, and better our condition.” The method is obvious. We must provide suitable accommodations for man- and brute. — We must repair our fences, ditch and drain our lands, anii restore our soil. We must cultivate habits of economy and industry. We must confine both the General and the State Govern- ment to the judicious provisions of the State and Federal Constitutions, and to the legitimate purposes of government. These truths require no proof. The errors of government, however, are not to be corrected by violent denunciation; they are more effectually prevented by temperate dis- cussion. To answer any valuable purpose at the pre- sent time, our habits of industry and economy must be of a very high character. Our soil iato be restored by a proper rotation of crops, an extensive application of manure, a judicious use ot the plow, and occasional rest. In a proper rotation of crops, the ground is left by each succeeding crop, either in a better condition for the cultivation, or lor the produc- tion of its successor. The preparation of manure requires enclo- sures lor different kinds ofstoclr, the judicious arrangement oi stables, and the collection of all those substances which may be elaborated into manure. Cornstalks are important lor this use. The judicious use of the plow, includes deep plowing, horizontal plowing, and sub- soiling. The importance otoccasional resltq our lands will at once be adiuitted. Much valuable land may be reclaimed by draining. Much valuable soil may be retained by n erelj"^ horiz mtal ditching and plowing. It behooves u.s to begin to think of some sub- stitute for the common rail fence; in some sec- tions rail timber is becoming scarce. An ade- quate substituleconsists in twoditchesof proper width and depth, with the dirt from them thrown into a hank between them, (.t properdimensions, surmounted bv a straight fence ol 4 or 5 rails height. Instead of rails, the bank might be surmounted by rocks of vvhich there are con- siderable quantities on some plantations. Col. Moughton ol Jones county, has, it is believed, demonstrated the practicability and utility of the double ditch, and intermediate bank. Proper enclosures and shelters should, by all means, be provided for all kinds of stock. Both the humanity and the interest of the farmer is involved in this matter. With the increased comfort of stock, iheir value is increased. The additional quantity of manure saved by this course, would repay the trouble involved. It is clearly the interest and the duty of the farmer to provide better for the neglected cow; and w'ell was an agricultural meeting which took place in Milledgeville, in the early part of the year, call- ed upon in the public papers, to “heed the plaintive meanings of the neglected cow.” If it is both the duty and the interest of the tar tier to provide shelter for the brute, how much more is it his interest and duty to provide comfortable lodgings for the man ? If crops and stock suffer and waste for the want of proper shelter, men suffer and- die from the same cause. The la- borer as well as the master, imperiously re- quires suitable food, clothing and lodging. But among the means of remedying past er- rors, and be'tering our condition, we w'ould, by no means overlook Mr. Camak’s suggestion concerning a recommendation to the legisla- ture, to “enable our State University to give a complete course of instruction in Agricultural chemistry and geology.” ft would be obvious- ly calculated to promote the interest of Agricul- ture, and is, w'e think, sanctioned by the exam- ple of several of the States. Tf e plan of carrv- ingagricullnral instruction intocommon schools by means of suitable school books, seems alto- gether feasible. Nor should we be deterred from any of these plans by the common objection against “ Book Farming.” Our books and periodicals should contain practical knowledge, and then the ob- jection would not apply. There is no reason why practical knowledge mav not be imparted by books, in agriculture, as well as hi medicine, mechanics, &c. Having said thus much in pursuance of the plan suggested by Mr. Camak, we pass from it with the remark, that as cotton has not ad vanced to “ten cents,” we trust that some of our views may receive attention. But in regard to the more immediate wants of agriculture, we find in the Cultivator lor May, a few remarks so appropriate that we must be allowed to copy them : “ What we want now,” says the editor, “ is a plain account ot theexperimentsofmen of plain common sense. There are now but few per- sons engaged in tilling the soil who do not be- lieve that all professes may be varied, with cer- tain benefit to the crop, and profit to the owner ; and thus believing, they are very apt to make experiments of some sort or othc, and note the results. When they meet their neighbors on public occasions, these experiments and their results are the subject of conversation, unless party politics should happen to exclude every thing else. It would not be much trouble of a long winter night, or a rainy day, to write out) an account of these experiments for publication in the Cultivator. Now, this is just what we want: that our planters should enlarge the sphere of their conversation, and besides talking with their immediate neighbors, shall talk through the pages of the Cultivator, with men engaged in the same pursuit, one hundred miles distant; that il^ planter on the Savannah river shall talk and compare notes with the planter on the Chattahoochee, and he of the mountains with him of the seacoast, without leaving their own firesides. But you sav you can’t write. You can talk though ; and all you have to do is to banish the idea, so prevalent, that when you take pen in hand, you must get on stills and go hunting big words in the dictionary, wherewith to construct high sounding sentences; thus cry- ing to write in a style and manner altogether different from rhar you use when talkingto your neighbor. Banish this notion altogether. Take your pen and put down on paper just what you would say to your neighbor, just as you would say it when speaking of your experiments, and vou will then succeed to a certainty. [A pretty good method, the committee would say, for all writers and speakers.}.; If there should be some- errors in spelling and grammar, never mind that; we will take eare to have everything right in that respect.” Thus far the “Cultivator.” In addition to the means indicated for correct- ing the errors of the past, and bettering our con- dition, others might be mentioned, and especial- ly a due diversity in the objects of agricultural operations, a proper adjustment of the claims' of different objects, and an extensive association of men engaged in agricultural pursuits. All other classes of men unite to promote their in- terests, why not agriculturists ? Butitis lime to dr&w to a dose, and in doing so, we desire to- present for consideration, the views of the Hon. Thomas Spalding, as contained in an extract from his letter, dated “ Sapelo Island, Sept. 2d, 1845i “ Under these circumstances, 1 must be short- er in iny communication to you than 1 other- wise should have been. “A National Agricultural Association at New-York, has associated my name among their consulting members. In return for the compliment, I have promised at my leisure, to- prepare a paper upon the agricultural capabili- ties of Georgia. And, in doing so, I have in- tended to divide the State into three agricultu- ral zones ; the first extending from the sea coast to the granite range at Augusta, Milledgeville^ Macon and Columbus. This region is, in gene- ral, sandy, based n-pon clay, covered with pine orfirlimber; adapted with the tidal range of waters, to the production ot rice, and of long stapled cotton from thence to- the termination at the granite falls, to the production of short stapled' cotton, and its native growth, our pines,, found no where growing so well in the United' States but from North Carolina to the Alabama river. And let no one undervalue this produc- tion; lor the pine clad hills of Sweden and of Norway have given more to their people and their government than rhe rich plains that bor- der the Danube and the Vistula in Europe. — And this, too, will be the case in America when we shall be filled up with people. THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 15 “ From the granite range to where the rivers again break from Athens across the country, is emphatically a larming country. I have known It tor fifty years: and in no country, in Europe or America, have I seen any region so admirably adapted to the production of wheat and barley and roots of every variety. And they should ever go together ; carrots and beets and turnips should precede the wheat crops, it great results are expected. Turnips are sup- posed to have given to England more than any other plant that ever was introduced into it, and carrots and beets are still belter. In this climate, these are all winter crops ; they would be plucke I trom the field to be led to the stock ; they would give great return in manure to the land, which, reposing during the summer, and free from the action of the plow, would im- prove yearly in tertility, instead of being wasted away in a few years and destroyed by the corn culture. There are streams all around to manufacture your wheat, and well led teams would cart their products to a shipping point upon their rivers, instead of being dependent upon monopolizing associations. “ The red lands ot Georgia resemble, in every point, the red lands ot Morocco, in Africa; the climate is precisely the same; and John Gray Jackson, who reside! at Mogadore, as Consul General, tor twelve years, says, that a crop of wh^at would feed the entire people for seven years; but the government of Morocco does not permit expo''tation, except as a special ta- vor; and thousands and tens ot thousands of acres, when there is a good season, are lett un- reaped upon the fields. “ Our third zone, ex'ending from Franklin county to the line, is, in all points, ihe finest grazing country in America, and should be covered with flocks and herds. The hills are sufficiently elevated to be verdant at all seasons ; the vallies are sufficiently moist and fertile to give maize or corn crops, and hay to winter stock of every kind, and lucerne should be cul- tivated in every valley. “ Arthur Young found that in the vicinity ot Barcelona, lucerne cultivaied i-n the valley lands, gave forty tons to the acre, of rich lood, in five cuitings. And the climate ol Barcelona and the soils of their vallies greatly resemble the climate and soil of our Cherokee country. “ In closing my observations upon this zone, I cannot hesitate to say, that the State, or our friend, Col. Carter, or some other peison that could afford to do so, should expend 51,000 in procuring from Liverpool, where they can be procured, ten Alpaca or Peruvian sheep. — They hav^done well in England in a quarter where the mountains aro about the same ele- vation of the Cherokee mountains. Their fleeces have been improved in quality and increased in weight, and the Earl ot Derby in Lancashire has multiplied them, ' An ap- plication, either by the Legislature, or by a respectable individual, transmitted through the medium ol our present minister, Lewis Mc- Lane, would, no doubt, procure them at twen- ty pounds sterling a head. Or they might be procured at a much lower rate, by an ap- plication, on the part of the Legislature, to the Secretary of the Navy, Mr. Bancroft, from Peru direct, by our returning ships of war. “ In cultivating wheat we should abandon the dirty little white wheat and return to the yellow^ lammas, which grew forty and fifty years ago well in the upper country, and gave wheat that weighed seventy pounds to the bushel. We should sow our wheat crop in the last of Sep- tember, as Dr. Pallas sal's they are obliged to do in the Cromire, to guard against rust; and we should, it we sow broad-cast, sow four bushels to the acre, as they do in England.” Although the letters from Mr. Camak and Mr. Spalding were not intended for publication, yet we are confident they will excuse the use we have made ot their cornmunicatii ns. We re- gret that we have not received other interesting communications trom gentlemen from whom we hoped to receive them. 10, 1815. W.M. Tcrn'er, Chairman. ilX0ntl)l2 Calendar. I Altered from the Ainencun Agriculturist's Almanac for ISL, uTul arranged to su.t Ihe tdoulhern States. CALENDAR FOR JANUARY. [The folinwitig brief hinisio the farmer, planter and gardener, will be found lo apply not onl y lo the rnon lli under which they are arranged, but, owing lo diversity of seasons, climate and soils, they may frequently an- swer for other momhs This precaution 'he consider- a e agriculturist will not fail to notice and apply in all cases where his judgment and experience may dictate.] The first and most important thing that de- pmands atieniion is the care of the stock. All the catne, horses, and swine should be housed ainisht and during storms, and the sheep, I ho ugh usually considered a more hartly a nimal and better adapted to exposure and inclemency, will yield mtire wool, and consume less hay, and be less subject to tiisease, it furnished with snug shelter at night, and during the coldest weather. They require a tree ventilation ot their sheds, which all stables should also have. But this does not imply that they should be so open to the rude winds, that a good sized calf can jump through the sides of the buildings anywhere. They may be close and warm, but not filthy, damp and un wholesnme ; on the contrary, they should be kept clean and at all limes well aired. If fodder is .short with you, be the rhore eco- nomical with it, not by starving your cattle, bui by taking more care that none ol it be wasted. There is great savins in cutting fodder, which should always be done, when the price ot labor is not too high in proportion to i's value. Whi re this is practised, cattle eat all the hay clean; and straw and corn-stalks, when cut up fine, with the addition ol some light grain or roots, will keep stock well through the winter, if properly housed. Sheep should never be'suf- fered to run under the hay-mow or stack, as the seeds and parts of thf* hay sift into the wool, and diminish its value materially. Water should, it possible, be snnplied in ihe farm-yard, and wherever practicable, Irom a living spring, or running stream. This gives fresh, sweet water, and by having a supply always at hand, animals never drink to excess or overload their stomachs with cold w’ater, which often produces cramp or cholic. It the hauling is good, or the ground well frozen, all the transportation tor the year that can possibly be done, should be attended to. All the wood required fjr the year may now be drawn. This ought to have been cut in the pre- ceding autumn or summer, as it is more solid and durable cut at that time, and it has moreover an opportunity to get well dried. The logs should be drawn to the saw-mill, by which a supply ot boards and timber can be in readiness lor tuiure use. All the products remaining on hand, should be taken to market, if the prices are favorable. Heaps of manure may be re- moved to the fields where wanted. Peat and sw'amp muck, if before thrown into heaps and drained, may be hauled home, or into the fields where they are to be used, it manure can be had of any one unwise enough to part with it, let it now be drawn home and stored, and not al- lowed to ferment unless well covered with earth and gypsum, to absorb the gases that would oth- erwise escape. During the winter months, all the toois should be put in order, and any old diffi- culties remedied, and new improvements added to them. The children should all be at school, and their studies well looked after. Their head- work in w’inter, is of more consequence than their hand-work in sum.mer; and you cannot ex- pect to make g.'Od or efficient men and women out of ignoramuses. Let the grown folks look well to ihe manner of spending their own long winter evenings. Especially, see to it, that you carefully look over your agricultural books and periodicals, read attentively all they contain re- lative to your own business, and note carefully how far your own experience corresponds with, or differs trom, the information there detailed. If you have any valuable facts to add to the gene- ral stock of knowledge, prepare and send them for publication, as a partial return for the ad- vantage you have received f.^m others on simi- lar subjects. Improve all the clear Irosty weather this month to break out hemp, have a care of the tobacco, and if the weather be open, continue plowing. Ktlcken Garden. — Hot beds should now be made by those desirous ot having very early vegetables. This may be done with a layer ot horse manure two feet deep, well settled to- gether, over which place a le w inches ot garden mould, intermixed with sand, unless there is enough in the soil. Around this is placed a frame to keep the manure and soil in their place, and over it glass frames inclining about 2b deg, toward the south. The seeds of all such vege- tables as are required tor early use, may then be sown, such as cabbages, cauliflowers, radishes, lettuce, tomatoes, &.c. The surface should be kept sufficiently moist, and during the middle of the day in very warm weather, the glass may be withdrawn so as to let the sun in upon the plants. As much air should be admitted as can saleiy be done without injury to the plant Irom redu- cing the temperature too greatly, as the growing vegetables soon change the air and render it un- ht tor nutrition. A great many little comforts may be procured by some attention to a hot bed ; and if you live near a market, enough may be sold Irom your early vegetables to remunerate you for all trouble and expense thrice over If the ground is frozen, continue preparing' for spring, as directed in December. Fruit Garden and Orchard. — Examine jmur t rchards and cut off all dead limbs close to their trunks or branches; scrape off the moss, &,c. General pruning should be left until summer, Ftour Garajen and PloAxire Grounds. — The directions of December will also apply to this month. At your leisure hours prepare labels tor flowers next season, and get everything in order for the work in the spring. Planlation. — Let it be remembered that the florist, the gardener, and the agriculturist, have no remission from labor; tor there is something to be done in every week in the year — something to attend to, which will add to wealth, amuse and in.sinict the mind, interest the imagination, and benefit the general tone of mental and phy- sical health. “ Persevere against discouragement — keep your temper — employ leisure in study, and al- ways have some work on hand — be punctual and methodical in business, and never procras- tinate— never be in a hurry — presence self-pos- session. and not be talked into conviction — rise early and be an economist ot the lime — .maintain dignity without the appearance ol pride — man- ner is something with everybody, and every- thing with some — be guarded in disci.'urse, at- tentive and slow to speak — never acquiesce in immoral or pernicious opinions — be riot forward lo assign reasons to those wno have no right to ask — think nothing in conduct unimportant and indifferent — rather set than follow example — practice strict temperance, and in all your trans- actions remember the final account;” In the early part of this month, if it has not been done in December, select a spot ol ground, p.''epare the necessary beds, and sow your tobac- co seed. Make the beds, if possible, on land newly cleared, or, at all events, on land which has not been seeded with grass. Break up the ground properly, grub up the small stumps, dig out the roots, and carefully remove them with the hand. Make the beds from three to four inches high, of a reasonable length, and trom three to three and a half feet broad, so as to en- able the fingers, at arm’s length, to weed out the tender plants from both sides of the bed. Be- fore the seed is sown, take some dry trash, and burn it off upon the beds, to destroy insects and grass seeds, q’ake one ounce of tobacco seed, mix it with a quart of drv ashes, so as to sepa- rate it as much as possible, and sow it broad- cast. After it has been thus sown, slightly rake the surface, tread it down with your whole weight, that the ground may at once closely ad- here to the seed; and sprinkle with rain or river water. Should the beds become dry, from blighting winds or othercauses, watering should be consianHy repeated until the young plants 1« THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. METEOROLOGICAL J O U R N A L FOR THE YEAR 1845, KEPT AT ATHENS, GA,, BY PROFESSOR McCAY, OF THE UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA Latitude, 33° 58' N. : Longitude, bh. SAm. TV. r Elevation, about 8’70 feet. OCTOBER. NOVEMBER. DECEMBER. .-A_. > < GO BAROME- TER, THERMO- METER. CLEARNESS OF SKY F’M 10 TO 0. COURSE & STRENGTH OF WIND-* Rain tD CD BAROME- TER, THERMO- METER. CLEARNESS OP SKY F‘m It) TO 0. COURSE & STRENGTH OF WIND.* P3 5 a > *< CD BAROME- TER. THERMO- METER. CLEARNESsJeoURSE & OF SKV F’M strength IOtoO. Iof Wind ’ > 2 Sun- -3 o' elk Sun- •3 o'k Sun- 3 o’ elk Sun- 3 o’k Inch- S Sun- 3 o’ elk Sun- ! o’k Sun- 3 ocVk Sun i o’k Inch- Sun- i o’ elk San- 3 o’k Sun '3 o’clk Sun- 3 o’k InJS, MUST BE POST PAID, ailJ addrisseJ to J.v.M.IS GA.MxK, Athens, Georgia. VoL. IV. AUGUSTA, GA., FEBRUARY, 1840. No. 2. Qlgricultural ilketiiigs. STATE AG2SICI;L,TI;KA2. society. Report of tlie Committee on Grain. The Cummiltee appointed to report on Grain, have had the subject under consideration, but are at some loss whether the report was intend- ed by the Society to be of a statistical character, or to refer more particularly to the value and variety of the various grain crops of the State, and the relative proportion they bearto each other in value. The latter is forced on your Com- mittee from the fact, that Georgia has no statis- tics by which the amount of the various grain crops could be ascertained — tlie Lt".ghlalwe not deeming such stalislics worthy their attention in talcing the census of the S-ate. Under this view of the subject, vour Committee will proceed to lay before you iuch opinions as may suggest themselves from their experience and observa- tion, atid facts within their reach. The principal .grain crop ot the State is corn ; next in importance, is wheat; then follows oats, rye and barley — the two latter of which are very limitedly cultivated. Corn is the principal grain crop not only for bread, but for raising and sustaining our stock and fattening our poik; and if by drought, or any other cause, it partially fails, a panic is felt throughout the country; when if more attention was paid to the other grain crops, in such a case of failure we might have substitutes nearly, il not quite equal, to corn. The custom of the country has contributed much to this mischief, and the object of your Committee will be to suggest, before they close this report, at least a partial remedy. It is obvious that Georgia does not raise a sufficient supply of grain for her purposes; and the faci is fully proven by the large importa- tions of flour, pork, horses and mules every year made into the State. But your Commit- tee doubts whether the amount of corn now raised on the average, would not be sufficient for all the wants of the Stale, if it received the necessary aid by the increasedculture of wheat, oats, rye and barley, and at a less cost to the farmer than if the whole supply was made up of corn. Again — your Committee are ol opi- nion that 25 pel cent, more of corn might be raised with the same laborthan is raised, by an improved method of culture, on the same land, which would make a vast difference in the re- sults of the State. When Georgia was first settled, the circum- stances that surrounded the inhabiianfs 'neces- sarily induced a slovenly culture, but the virgin and fertile condition of the soil bountifully re- paid the labors of the husbandrian. This slo- venly custom grew up with, and was imbibed by the succeeding generation, and so sirong are old prejudices that you find it exceedingly difficult to make a man that is over forty years old, believe that anj^ o. her plan is better than his fathei’s. Men seem to forget that the earth has been shorn of her virgin fertility by the withering hand of time under ihe seourgings of the kill atifi cripple system— that she, like animals, must have the necessary amount of lood to en- able her to make a yearly return equivalent to what she did when young, healthy, vigorous and strong. Place her back where she was in her virgin days, and then call on her with an improved system of culture and she will re- spond in a precise ratio to the science and skill applied. Although she now seems to be worn out and exhausted with old age, and fit only to be abandoned to the miserable fate of raising broomsedge and old field pines, you have but to feed her plentilully and she will again rise in her native majesty and fill to overflowing the lap of ihftse who thus act in accordance with the laws of nature. But to the subject, taking it for granted that the deficiency in the average corn crop might be supplied at a less cost by increasing the crop of wheat, oais^ rye and bar- ley, and that 25 per cent, more of corn might be raised by improved cultivation, yet we are left to conjecture what increase in the grain crop would be sufficient to enable Georgia to be per- fectly independent of other States for ihose sup- plies which she would have if she raised an abundance of grain. Corn, the grain relied on in ihe Slate for biead, has become a less certain crop than for- merly, being more liable to be cut off by drought and bad culture in consequence of the exhaust- ed state of the soil, and is also prejudiced in its culture by the great staple ol the couniry, which not unlrequently causes it lo bring a price far above its true value, compared with the sta- ple article. The labor necessary to produce the cotton to purchase corn, if applied directly to 'he culture of corn, would produce more coin than the money arising from the cc iton would purchase. ft is therefore clear that so indispensable an article should have applied to its culture ihe ne- cessary amount of labor to secure a full supply for all the purposes for which it is used, and then the balance may be safely applied to cot- ton. Every larmer knows, without a sufficient supply of corn hisstock must decrease in value, and the necessary consequence is, that a portion ol the money received for this cotton must go to supply the deficiency created by the want of corn. Your Committee therefore consider corn of the first and greatest importance of ihe various grains of the South, and would recommend an extension and improi. ement in icscullure. Al- though your Committee are not resiricled in their report, agreeable lo the words ol the reso- lution directing their appointment, it might be considered as travelling out of their limits lo speak of the best method of preparing the land for the culture ot corn, therefore they will sim- plv suggest to their breihren the importance ol thorough preparation and culture, with a libem! use ot manure. Next in order is wheal ; and in the opinion of your Committee, of quite as much importance as the corn crop in its place, having entered much more largely than formerly in forming the principal bread of a large portion ot the in- habitants, and especially when we consider its entire adaptation to all the various uses made of the Indian corn, even the fattening of stock. It is unfortunate that thiscrop is held in such low repute by our farmers in consequence of the alleged uncertainty, and interfering with the cotton crop both in the time of its sowing and harvesting. It is true that the time for the sow- ing of wheat happens at an important time lor picking cotton, and the harvesting at an equally important time for working the cotton, but your Committee will not admit that it is a more un- certain crop than either of the grain crops rais- ed in the State. True, it is attacked by rust, smut or blast, and the yield not unfrequently a very poor one ; but when you trace the causes, they may, m almost every instance, be account- ed for. Your Committee hesitate not to say from experience, that success may be as cer- tainly calculated on in wheat as in the corn crop, the necessary pains being taken in selecting the seed, the preparation of the land, and the put- ting in of the grain, reference being had also to the time ol sowing, which should, in every ir- staticp, be early in the season lor the variety sown. The riist which has never yet been sat- isfactorily accounted for— consequently no re- medy has been prescribed— in every case has been escaped by wheat that ripens very early ; therefore, let the cause be what it may, you have only to select the early varieties, and sow early for the particular variety, and you escape the rust. The cause for the blast or smut has, by the light of scientific research, been discovered to be a fungus formed on the seed, which ger- minates and communicates through the grow- ing stalk to the grain and rots it in the milky stale. For this disease a remedy has been dis- covered which has proved effectual, viz; soak- ing the seed from twelve to sixteen hours in a strong decoction of blue-stone and liming it just before sowing. If your Committee are cor- rect, of which they have no doubt from expe- rience. two of the objections that were consid- ered formidable and insurmountable are over- come. The third objection, that ot a pooryield, can as easily be disposed of, for no man calcu- lates on a full crop ol corn when he half pre- pares and half cultivates the land; and for the same reason he should not calculate to make a crop of wheat with a scratching for a plowing, and only one at tha', which practice is too fre- quent in this countiy. Your Committee are of opinion that the method of sowing wheat in this country is radically wrong, — though aware they run ihe risk of being hooted for their sug- gestion of a better method, because of its inno- vation on the long established custom of plow- ing it in, and that many contend the failures are owing to its not having been plowed in deep enough. Notwithstanding, they are of opinion from experience and observation as well as good reasoning, that neither wheal nor any other small grain should be plowed in. They would suggest as the best method, a thorough preparation of ihc soil by deep plow- ingand thorough pulverization; the wheat sown on the land thus prepared, harrowed in and fal- lowed by a roller to mash the clods and com- press the sui face, that germination may take place at once, and a vigorous and healihy growth be promoted in the plant theieby. It is obvious to every thinking mind, that wheat, oats, rye and barley, are all surface plants; that they do not send their roots deep into the eanh, like many of the other plants, and as a proof of the fact, a gtain of wheat that germinates at the depth of three inches will have a hard strug- gle to get througli the earth, and when it does, it will remain a weak and sickly plant until the lateral roots aie thrown out from the first joint near the surface, within the influence of atmos- pheric air, and the genial influence of the sun’s rays; then it changes its appearance and put-s forth its foliage with more vigor. It is, howev- er, not unfrequent foran unhealthy condition to 18 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. be imparled to the plant, because of me long and lingering existence it had to undergo be- fore it could reach that point which was favora- ble for it, and which nature intended for it. None of these difficulties happen to wheat sown on a well pulverized surface, harrowed and rol- led, because it is immediately within the reach of the atuiospheric air and the sun’s rays, and having the earth compressed about it by the rol- ler, germination takes place at once, and a healthy plant springs up and grows vigorously, because it is just in the element that nature in- tended it for ; its position in every respect being favorable, the young roots runout vigorously in search of food for the support of the plant, and necessarily, a healthy and vigorous plant is the result, by which the chances are greatly increas- ed for a favorable result in the crop. Your Committee are therefore of opinion, that the wheat crop is quits as certain as corn, and for the labor necessary to raise and save the two crops, decidedly a cheaper crop to the farmer, and that its yield per acre, though not so many bushels, when you compare the labor and the value of the two grains, is fully com- pensated for. It is true that the saving and har- vesting of a wheat crop is very much in the way of the cotton crop, and so is the corn crop, and many other things that are absolutely necessary which contribute to the happiness and comfort of a people; and if the cotton was made to yield to these very necessary things, w'e would not have to complain of the low price it bears, and the scarcity of corn, wheat and pork in the land. Your Committee would therefore urge the ne- cessity of increasing the quantity of wheat, not only because it enters largely into the bread stuff of the country, and is a cheap crop and equally certain as corn, but because, in a year like the present, when the earth has been parch- ed with drought, and the usual supply of corn failed to be raised, it comes in as a most valua- ble substitute. And last, though not least, to keep our money at home paid out yearly for the article of flour that we can raise cheaper than to purchase it. Next in order is oats; and your Committee regret that this crop is not so extensively raised as in former years. The reason alleged is the uncertainty of the crop and its exhausting qual- ity to the land. It is admitted that the oat crop sown in the spring is precarious, because of drought in the spring which frequently occurs, and when sown at that time, may be a greater exhauster than other small grain crops; but they have not seen the evidences of its exhausting quality, neither are they willing to admit either of the objections as well founded, if the crop is sown at the proper time and in the proper way. Although it is considered a spring grain, there are several varieties that stand the winter well, and even the little black oat, the tenderest of them all, will, nine years out of ten, go through our winters unhurt. The experience of your Committee is, that oats sown from the 15th of November to the 1st of January, nine years out of ten, go through the winter unhurt, is very slightly affected by the spring droughts, and most generally makes a lair crop for the land, and if the winter and spring are favorable, a very abundant one. Therefore, taking the ca- sualties of the fall sowing, and then of the spring, and the difference oi the product in favor of the fall sowing, and the average is greatly in favor of the fall sowing. Your Committee have no facts at hand by which they can show that the crop of oats sown in the fall does not exhaust land as much as those sown in the spring, but from the greater length f'f time that the one has to grow and ma- ture than the other, the fall preparation of the land for the reception of seed, thereby admitting the gasses of the fall and winter months, forces on us the conclusion, that the fall crop is not as great an exhauster as the spring; and from ac- tual experience they can state That the chances for quantity is fifty per cent, in favor of the fall. Admitting then, only for the sake of argument, that the crop is an exhausting one, the question to be determined is, whether the exhaustion of the land is equivalent to the crop, and whether the land is not more restored from the crop of weeds that spring up after the crop of oats is taken off, and the preventing of the washing of the land through the summer months, than it would be if a crop of corn had been grown on it. This position none, we think, will doubt. — Then, if we are correct, that oats sown in the fall do not exhaust the land equal to a eorn crop — that the crop sown at that time succeeds well, nine times out of ten — that the crop is much less ex.pensive to the farmer than corn— that it is capital food for horses, mules and cattle, and affords good gleaning to the farm stock after the crop is taken from the field — that it materially aids a abort crop of corn in the way of food for horses and mules while engaged in the culture of the crop, are facts which your Committee deem sufficiently established. Therefore, they can see no good reason why this particular crop should not be extended, that in the event of a short crop of corn, help may heat hand. Rye, the next grain in order, is very limitedly grown in the State, and so far as your Commit- tee are informed, less now than in years past. We are aware that this grain is considered of great value in some countriesars food for horses, as being better adapted to their health and vigor than corn ; that horses fed on this grain, by cut- ting the straw and sprinkling the ground rye meal over it, are capable of performing better ser- vice, and far less subject to the various diseases common to them when fed on corn. It is known to your Committee to be a hardy grain, grows well on their land, and is well adapted to win- ter grazing for mares and colts, cattle, sheep, and sows and pigs; and if your Committee are correctly informed relative to its quality as food for horses, they cannot too strongly recommend it to the notice of farmers, espeeiadv when they take into the account its adaptation to, and lux- uriant growth on poor land, and the great re- turn that it makes to the land, in straw and stubble. Last, though not least, is barley. YourCom- mittee have very little hope of being able to ar- rest the attention of farmers, and place tliis im- portant grain before them in such a light as Us merits will justily. For grazing, nothing is its equal ; all animals are lond of it, from the horse down to the hog; for soiling purposes it has no superior; when the grain is formed and the straw begins to yellow, it is not equalled as food for horses; and v hen ripe and the grain thresh- ed out, it stands unrivalled as food lor horses, giving them a finer and more glossy coat than any other gram, and as for production per acre, no grain equals it, save corn. It may be ob- jected to, on the ground that it requires very rich land to produce it profitably, eiiher for grazing or quantity, which objection is valid; but your Committee contend that any farme’- can afford to make land rich when he can have an assu- rance of raising seventy-five to one hundred bushels of good grain from one acre that he makes rich and sows in barley, as one of your Committee has fully proven, aside from the ad- vantage that he will receive by winter grazing from the same land. Your Committee there- fore cannot too highly recommend it to the at- tention of farmers. . Flavinggone through with what your Com- mittee intended on each of the particular grain crops of the State, they would again remark, that corn is very properly considered Ifie most important grain. Notwithstanding, if more im- portance was attached to the other grains, so that corn would not have to be resorted to as the food (or men and animals so entiiely as it is, all may be supplied at a cheaper rat-e, for no one will contend that it costs as much labor to raise a bushel of wheat or oats as it does corn ; and as for barley, there is no comparison. As for the casualties attending the various gram crops, your Committee consider them about equal, ana are of opinion that the cause of fail- ure is more frequently the fault of the operator or manager than otherwise. Yonr Committee, in conclu-sion, regret that Georgia has no statistics by which they can ar- rive at anything like the yearly deficiency of the grain crop in the Stale, therefore they can only assume as the probable deficiency, the amount that the money expended for flour, pork, mules and horses, would purchase in grain, takins it for granted that said amount, if applied to the rearing of those things, would be fully adequate to supply the deficiency. What amount this would decrease the cotton crop is impossible to tell unless we knew the amount expended, but certain it is, that the amount would be suffi- ciently great if extended to all the cotton grow- ing region, to so diminish the quanli y as ma- terially to affect the price. Although Georgia cannot expect to exert such influence as to effect anything beyond yer own border, save by ex- ample, may she not materially benefit heiselt by adopting such a policy as will raise her own consumptions in those articles which she has been in the habit of purchasing from other States In the opinion of your Committee, she can, and the principle will not only hold good in a State, but in an individual. For which opinion, they offer but one simple and plain reason, viz: he who makes everything he con- sumes, and sells all that he has to spare, never fails to be prosperous. Respectfullv submitted, R. S. Hardwick, Chairman. Report of the Committee oii Stock. The Committee appointed by the Agricultu- ral Association of Georgia, to which” was re- ferred the subject “what kind of plantation stock would be most conducivejo the interest of Gei.rgians to cnliivate, and the best mode of improving the .same,” have had the same under con-sideiation, and beg leave to submit the fol- lowing as their report : It cannot be expected that the report will con- tain much valuable information, when it is con- sidered that the quality of farm or plantation stock has heretolore depended entirely on indi- vidual judgment — or it may he, caprice ol the farmer or planter. There have been few pub- lic exhibitions of stock by which comparative values might be determined, and the Committee, thus confined to the immediate range of neigh- borhood observation, are not qualified to make an enlightened report on the varieties of planta- tion stock which are to be found in different parts of the State. The Committee in this re- port, have confined their observations to six kinds of stock, which they believe the most common, and certainly the most valuable. And contrary to the general opinion in regard to va- lue, they begin with Thn Cow — which they consider as of supe- rior importance to the horse. This humble beast, (the cow,) which contributes so largely to the comforts and necessitiesof civilized man, in its wild or nati ve stale, seems to lu ve a wide range of existence. Some one of the eight va- rieties has been found in the frozen regions of the North, as well as the tropical regions of In- dia, America and Africa ; and thus it appears that the genus Bo.s, (or Ox,) stretches across all climates, and with an exception or two, is redu- ced to universal slavery or domestication. Of lli& Horse. — This noble animal, so called, probably, from his qualities — so befitting war, and which is in truth sagacious and generous, IS admitted universally to be native in Asia, somewhere about Lake Aral and the Caspian Sea; he is found there now in the wild state, and especially in the desert regions of Tartarv, also in the extensive uncultivated parts of South America — the latter are no doubt descendants of the Andalusian horses used by the Spaniards in the conquest of that country. The wild horses of Tarlar}'^ and South America are said to have larger heads, longer ears, longer and thicker legs proportionally, coarse wavy hair, and in South America of diminished size, com- pared with the original Andalusian. There are no black or pied horses in Tartary, and in South America the number ofehesinut bays are abut 90 percent. — scarcely a black in 2,000, and few of any other color ; it is therefore believed that chestnut bay is the natural color, and here it may be stated as a remarkable fact, that the wild THE SOUTHERN? CULTIVATOR. horse of Asia can never be tamed il not captnr-- ed when' young, and that ihe same animal in South America, at any age, surrenders himself in a few days to his captor and is domesticated. It is believed that in regard to the South Ame- rican, the animal has not yet lost the eSecl of his early civilization, (if the word may be al- lowed.) The Ass.— The native country of this ani- mal is the same as the horse, but while the lat- ter extends as far north as 56 degrees ol lati- tude, the former does not voluntarily pass the 45th degree, but descends south to the Persian Gulf and the southern extre.mity of Hindostan; he is therelore fi-.ttd by nature to warm lati- tudes. The ancients were well acquaintea with him, and valued him as well lor his grave .good nature as his strength, and for his easy means of subsistence.. Job says of him — “whose house I have made the wilderness, and the barren land his dwelling, the range of the mountains is his pasture, and he seeketh alter every green thing.” The Hog. — The wild bo^r from which our domestic breed is supposed to bederived, occurs | in many parts of Europe, Asia and Africa, in the South Sea Islands and in the Chinese do- m nmim, but is not a na'ive of America. In a wild state he is exceedingly fierce and savage. It is deemed needless to descant on the value of this animal, which, notwithstanding his un- couth appearance and filthy habits, constitutes j in his improved and domestic state, one of our i most valuable quadrupeds. The fecundity of the race — the omnivorous character of his food | — readiness with which he takes on fat, and the | delicacy and healthiness of his flesh, are every- i where highly valued. i Tk”. Sheep. — This valuable animal, like the | cow, is found in its native wildness in both the i old and new world — and in both, in that state, was rather a hairy than a tvoolly animal. It may be remarked of this creature, that he is re- corded as the first who owned the dominion of I man — “'and Abel was a keeper ol sheep, and Cain wms a tiller of the ground.” The gentle- ness of his temper, the excellence of his flesh for food, and above all, tlje abundance and warmth of his fleece, make him to man of ines- timable, almost indispensible value. The va- rieties are numerous, adapted to evei'y climate, and the w'onder seems to be that so little atten- tion is now bestowed on him by the people of Georgia. One of the Committee has a speci- men of the fine wool used at Lowell for broad- cloth, and another of wool raised in the pine w'oods of Sumter; the last is considered by ma- •ny as the finest. How easy to multiply in our fine climate this valuable animal, which, most of the year, would require no other care but to be protected from worthless curs. This short and imperfect history of the ani- mals from which our domestic breeds have ori- ginated, is not deemed by the Committee of any value except to show the effect of domestication and the modifying and meliorating influence produced by the hand of man. The tame ani- mal is a very different being from the wild, not only in the perfection of his form and his size, but still more remarkable in his temper and disposition. It may be said without violence to language, that the savage has been ci^'ilized. The animals ol the cow kind in their native state, are fierce and dangerous, and ready lor battle; the horse of indomitable temper and vi- cious; the hog not less wild and ferocious than the wolf; the sheep inhabiting mountain re- gions, fleet and ti.mid, and covered with hair in- - stead of wool. The great difference in the ori- ginal and the domesticated animal, is lo be at- tributed to ihe skill and care which have been bestowed on them by man in selecting and pre- serving the most perfect specimens, by crossing the diflerent varieties, and by food and shelter. To illustrate this, let a comparison be made bs'- tween the wild horse of Asia, or mustang of South Antfrka, and the thorough bred British races. Compare the buffalo, the wild animals of India or Europe, of the ox kind, with the Durham-s, or Herelords, or Devons of England Observe the difference between the wild boar, wherever found, and the fat, good nat.ured Berk- shire. And finally, compare the hairy sheep of the mountains with the merinos of Spain. It would seem therefore clear that the best mode of improving the breed of the stock of Georgia, would be to pursue the same system which has been pursued by all enlightened nations, and which have produced such remarkable results. This system is careful b.^eeding, good and plen- tiful food. This will be done by the Georgians when they get willing to make less cotton and more grain and giass. The animal that remains to be spoken of, (and none is more worthy,) ;s The ilJwfc.— He is seldom found in a state of nature, and it has been supposed by some to be a violation of the laws of nature to produce him. This however, is a mistake; for we find it written — “ and these are the children of Zi- beon, both Ajah and Anak ; this was that Anak that found the mules m the wilderness as he fed the asses of Zibeon his father.” The Commit- tee are quite persuaded that there is not only no objection to the production of mules, but that it should be extended and the breed improved. The mules ol Spain are said to be very supe- rior to those of any other country, being much larger and more beautiful — so much so, that ihey are used chiefly for travelling, carriages and stage coaches. The fine Andalusian horse is used for parade and for war; for our purpo- ses of agriculture, the plow and wagon, they are believed to be uecidedly superior to hofses. The remarkable condensation of bone, muscle and tendon, give them great strength. His thriftiness, his love of coarse food— -in oiher words, his easy keep gives him surpassing value; besides this, he is exceedingly sagacious, and seldom makes but one difficulty with his master, and that is, when first subjected to labor; he does not like lo sur- render his liberty, but when he has been com- pelled to do itTe goes to work, and like a sen- sible creature, never after reluses to do his duty — pity il i.s that the same thing cannot always be said of his master — independent o-f his strength, his long life, his docility and hardi- ness. The Committee believe from the history above stated ol the jackass, that he is particu- larly adapted to Southern latitudes, and hence the value, in part at least, of his descendant. For purposes of the saddle or pleasure carriage, the mule is not considered, as he is found in this country, suitable. In these particulars the horse is everything that is needed. The variety of this animal best suited to the Southern Stales, is halt or three quarters thorough bred, and the Committee are of opinion, that large horses are less hardy than those of medium size. Perhaps the range in height miglit be from 4 feet 10 inches to 5 feet 2 inches. It has been ascertained by chemical analysis, that the bones of the Arabian or tho- rough bred horse are more compact or harder than those of tlm larger variety or dray breed; the muscles and tendons are more elastic, the chest deeper, and therefore more room for the lungs, and hence the power of long continued ac- tion and better wind. The Committee are of opi- nion that the same rule will holdgoodin regard to cattle; large coarse an imals have less muscu- lar activity, require more food, .and seem to en- dure heat with more difficulty. They would iheretore recommend short legged cattle of com- pact forms and clean small bones. They are usually better milkers, and it is thought that their fle-h is more delicate for table use. They are therefore inclined to the opinion that the Devon, or other small cattle, are belter suited to'Georgia, than the Durhams. Of hogs, the Committee believe that the rule should be, to obtain the greatest quantity' of meal for the least food. And here the same rule seems lo hold. The very large breed of swine are not so thrifty, or so readily fatted. It may be that the Berkshire is near the mark ol the best hog, especially where there is much pasture land; besides, it is believed that he fat- tens more readily and certainly when put up for that purpose. In regard to sheep, the Committee are of opi- nion, thalfor common coarse clothing, the com- mon sheep of the country, with a cross of the Colswold, or Leicester, w'ould bathe best; it would give them increased size and heavier fleeces. The Cotswold are said to yield from 8 to 12 pounds of good wmol at a shearing. For fine wool, the Saxony, or Merino, or a cross between them would no doubt do well, and make a good return for the capital invested, as both varieties are known to do well in Georgia, better indeed than in colder climates, where the Saxony is found to be a delicate animal. In regard to the improvement and value of all domestic animals, the Committee are entire- ly convinced that a plentiful supply of good food and kind treatment are indispensable, and that in this particular, the planters and farmers of Georgia are signally deficient : many of them are hardly exempt from the charge of cruelty, in the permitted poverty and suffering to which their domestic animals are subjected, and in be- half of the dumb beasts, they will put into their mouths this saying, worthy of all acceptation — “a merciful man is merciful to his beast.” Reports on Manures. T.he Committee appointed on manures, know'- ing the great diversity' of opinion existing upon this important subject, seeing the opposition w'hich any object of improvement meets with from many agriculturists, and feeling the re- sponsibility which rests upon them, approach this duly with diffidence; but deploring the ruinous system of culture which has been pur- sued by our citizens for many years past, and acknowledging the advantages which would re- sult from reform, beg leave to make the follow- ing as their repot t : Cotton seed, in the opinion of your Commit- tee, is regarded as one of the best manures wdth • in reach of the planter. The ease with which it may be carried on the farm, the facility wnth which it may be distributed, together with its astonishing effects, particularly upon grain crops, have long since brought it into general use as a manure; and yet your Committee be- lieve, that for want of a proper understanding of its valuable properties, it has been in many instances improperly applied and wasted. For instance, most farmers believe that less than a quart of cotton seed to a hill of corn, will be of no use, and is consequently thrown away; w’hile your Committee brlieve that where the land is thin a half pint is as much as ought to be applied. The quality ofour land should re- gulate the quantity. When the land is capable of producing two and a half or three barrels of corn to the acre without the assistance of ma- nure, a pint of seed to the hill of corn is admis- sible, but on a poorer soil much less must be applied. This opinion of your Committee is the result of experience, and they feel safe in recommending it to public notice. We would also suggest the propriety of forming compost of cottonseed by banking it in alternate layers w'ith swamp muck or alluvium. By this means the quality of the manure is decidedly intpro- ved, the quantity increased, betterresults are ob- tained in the crops, and the soil is more perma.- nently benefitied. It is a well ascertained fact, that all grasses and grain require large quanti- ties of silicate of potash, and it is an equally certain fact, that the reeds and species of cane which thrive so luxuriantly on marshy grounds contain large quantities of silicicus earth. The potash evidently exists in all ground of this character, and is furnished with dis.solved sili- ca continually by the change of water; hence w--e cannot recommend too strongly the general use of these substances— peat, swamp muck, or alluvium, in the formation of all manures. — A compost .formed of either of these suf- slances and one third animal manure, con- tains most of the fertilizing salts and gasses which the ordinary crops of our country require for their development and maturity. With a compost of this kind, a free use of pulveriged charcoal w'ould be highly beneficial, as it fixes and retains permanently the vclali’e gasses for 20 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. Ihe future nourishment ot the plant, which would otherwise escape and be lost. We are also of opinion, that the importance ol these substances combined with ashes, leached or un- leached, or with lime, is not duly appreciated. It is stated by one ol our celebrated chemists, (Dana,) and his assertion is corroborated by actual experiment, that one cord of a compost made ol ashes and muck, in the proportion of one part ol ashes to three of muck, is tully equal to a cord of the best cow manure. This muck manure, in some one of its forms, is at the command of every one. We would also recommend to our brother farme.'s the necessity of con^tracting lots and establishing a regular system of saving and making animal manures. For this purpose, we would advise a more extensive cultivation of grain, particularly of wheat. Wheat straw, as an article of food lor stock, in our country is considered almost valueless, while a.s a litter for well constructed stock pens, it isol the great- est importance. We will not attempt to enter into a detail of its properties or account for its peculiar action upon vegetation; but for the purpose of making manures, we give it a deci- ded prelerenee over all other light materials we have used for that purpose. We consider ma terials abundant. All refuse substances are fit ingiedients in a manure pen. Some are fine absorbents— some, unknown to the plain farmer, possess important chemical properties, and all add to the quanti’y. AVe are aware that che- mical and foreign manures are highly lauded in all the agricultural prints of the day, and while we are Jar from objecting to any experi- ments which may be made in relation to this important subject, w’e would still rely upon our own resources, as, under good management, be- ing fully sufficient lor the purpose of restoring fertility to our exhausted soils and of securing permanent comfort and independence to our people. I. P. Whitehead, of Hancock, One of the Comriiitiec. BY ANOTHER OF THE COilJlITTEE ON MANURES. Your Committee to whom was relerred the subject of investigating and reporting on the best mode of raising andapplying manuies, ac- knowledge that their experience is so limited that they are entirely incapable of doing jus- tice to that important branch ot agriculture, notwithstanding, we beg leave to report — 1st. That to succeed in raising manure, we should find out what are the different composi- tions that will ierment and decompose in the shortest time and in*the best manner ; and our limited experience is this: to haul upon our farm yards corn and cotton stalks, leaves from the woods, rotten wood, &c., and spread them upon the yard, and then cover them with muck or dirt from a pond ; after they have been suffi- ciently trod, dunged and urinated upon, w'hich lime must lie regulated by the season of the year, it should be thrown into a pit prepared for the purpose, or in pens, taking care, after your heap is ccmpleted, to cover it well with muck or pond dirt, to prevent evaporation. Your stables should be filled up with the same kind of litter, except the muck, and cleaned out once a week; this system would make it more com- fortable for your horses, and prevent the loss of a great quantity of urine. The quantity of lit- ter to be placed upon the barn yards must differ in the different seasons of the year. In the spring they should be six inchesdeep, the muck or pond dirt, one inch deep. In the summerlhe coat or layer of litter and muck should not be so thick, and trod not exceeding four weeks, then lakefi up and thrown into the pit or pen. The reason tor cleaning up in so short a time is obvious; it prevents the long hot summer days sun Irom burning it up, orkillingthe droppings or dung of the cattle, and the evaporation of the urine, which we believe to be no little item. As the season moderates, the layers of litter and muck should be deeper and longer trod. We are of opinion that the above preparation may be continued for cotton until the last of February successfully. Your Committee beg leave now to report up- on the application of mrnures. In the first place, we recommend that the manure be pla- ced in the hill or drill, as deep, if possible, as the clay or subsoil, immediately under the corn or cotton, or any other article, and covered with dirt previous to planting'. If for corn, a very small quantity of dirt should be placed upon the manure; if for cotton, it should be bedded upon until tlie manure is covered from four to six inches deep. The reason that we recom- mend placing manure in the hill or drill is ow- ing to the small quantity that we have. If we had a sufficient quantity, by all means the sys- tem ol throwing it broadcast is the true agricul- tural system. All seeds should be planted im- mediately subsequent to the application of the manures. In treating upon the subject of ma- nures, cotton seed comes into the account, as it is known to be a great fertilizer. There seems, however, to be as many conflicting opi- nions and modes in the application of cotton seed as manure as any other article of manure, it not more. Some contend, (and all say from ex- perience,) that the proper mode is to put the seed in the bottom of the furrow, after the ground is laid off, and then throw a small quan- tity of dirt upon the seed, then drop the corn and cover in the common way, say with a plow or hoe. Others contend that the seed should be dropped upon the hill immediately after the corn is planted — some sav not until thecorn is up, and then they should be placed round the corn and covered with a hoe, which is a weeding or hilling to the corn. Now, it iollows of course, that all these modes cannot he right; and to know the proper mode of applying them, it is necessary first to- know the feitilizing properties the seed possess. This, your Committee be- lieve, all will concede, i- mostly contained in their oil V substances ; if so the mallei is at once settled, for this reason: oil is lighter than vva- ter, consequently in a wet lime, or when the earth is full ot water, the oil will rise, being lighter than water, and in its rising it has to work its way throughto the surface, and in this process the roots of the corn receive its nou- rishment, consequently it should be placed deep enough to be below the roots ol the corn. Y' Ur Committee not being acquainteri with the principles of chemistry, nor that of anah z- ing, defers any reference 'o them, but believes them connected with agriculture, and do not be- lieve that the true system of agriculture can be carried out without a knowledge of them. Your Committee believe the practice o! heat- ing cotton seed in pens or heaps as is the cus- tom of the country, entirely at variance with the true mode ot preparing seed for manure, as it is conceded that oil is the fertilizmg property contained in the seed. You readily discover that heating the seed destroys a goodly Quantity of the oil. To remedy this, we recommend that the seed be kept dry under shelter until they are wanted for use, and then with some simple machinery the seed be so mashed as not to sprout after they are applied as manure, and be applied in the green state. All of which is respectfully submitted for the conside.r’ation of the Association. John W. Moodt, one of the Conimiiice. Soutli Carolina State Agricultur.al Society. [From ihe ChMUsion M'jrtury ] Dear Sir : — Business lies heretofore prevent- ed me frona giving you some account of the proceedings of the State Agricultural Society. I( held three meetings, and adjourned on Thurs- day night. Among other papers presented to it was a valuable communienffon from Mr. Ruf- fin, eniitled, “Marling Facts and Estimates.” designed by him as a continuation ol his e'-sav on that subject, sub.miited to the Society in De- cember last. It would thus appear, and I re- joice to mention the fact, Mr. R. still feels a deep interest in the prr sperity of South Caro- lina, A communication from the Russian j Economical Association of St. Petersburg, soli- citing an interchange of information on agri- cultural topics, accompanied by two volumes ol its transactions, in the German language, was read by the President. This evidence of kindness and courtesy on the part of a foreign co-laborer, and the present of books received at different limes from the State Societies of ihe Union, have induced us to ask ot the Legisla- ture an appropriation cf gtSOO, to enable the So- ciety to disseminate the mass of useful mailer collected from its organization. Il successful, we shall have it in our pow'er not only to prove to our immediate friends, but to tlie a.griculiural communit}' ol the world, that the Slate Society of South Carolina is in the faithful and zealous discharge of its duties. Mr. James P».heti’s motion to request the Chairman of the Committee to adopt proper measures, by which to secure the introduction ot Manilla Rice, was adopted. Capt. Wilkes, I think, mentions that on that island there are eight varieties, of which five are well adapted to high lands. To extend the culture ol this valuable grain, is a niatterof great impoitance. A copy of the'report of the Committee ap- pointed to ascertain the quantity of Corn neces- sary to supply the wants of the suffering por- tions oj^the community, I forw'arded to you on Satu rday. The specimens of domestic fabrics exhibited were numerous and beauliiul. Premiutns were awarded to several ladies, A few' bottles of the juice of thegrape. andone of the bene oil, from a ‘ fairconsiitueni,” were presentea by Mr. Simms, of Barnwell. He embraced the occasion of giv- ing free vent to his opinions, in a manner, too, highly felicitous, of the influence ol the female sex in society, and especially in times of dan- ger and dislress, and added that the President, in his appeal to the patriotism and sympathies of the audience, had wholly omitted to apply to the only source whence aid at all peri^d-s and under all circumstances was certain of being rendered — the heart of woman. It was a vety neat and appropriate effort on the part of ibe gilted novelist, and I scarcely need say that the ladies w'ere gratified. The audie' ge, on Thursday night, was the largest I ever witnessed in the Hal! of the House of Representatives — a large number ol gentlemen were obliged to stand up until a late hour. The ladies were accommodated with seats on the floor. Much was expected ol the orator, and we were not disappointed. In man- ner and matter, Mr. Poinsett was eminently succes.'^ln!. At present, I will only .'ay, that in my judgment, wJien the address itself is spread before the public, the reputation of the author, as a man of useful and extensive information, will be greatly incieased. The Representative chamber was, as usual, decorated with fruit, plants and flowers — the most of W'hich w’ere from tlie gaiden ol Mr. Russell, a public spirited citizen ot this place. The next semi-annual meeting will beheld at Aiken, on the third AVednesday in July. Tire Orator — the Hon. R. P. AA^. Allston. Our di-siingiiishecl Statesman and practical Agi icnlturisr, John C. Calhoun, will be the So- ciety’s Orator in December, 1646. It had nearly e.scaped me to state that the Society have instructed the Executive Commit- tee to invite as many State Societie.s as they may deem advisable, tr' attend, liy delegation, our next anniversary meeting — the delegates to come with written answers to such interrogato- ries in relation to the progress of Agriculture in their respective States as may be propounded by the Committee. Respectfully, yours, AA’hiTF.M.ARSH B. SEABROO.rJ. Columbia^ December, ]845. Hint tc Makers of Candles. — Take two penn-' S of alum for every ten peurdsof tal'ow, dissolve it in w'ater before the tallkiw is pvtt in. and then melt the tall iw in the a um water ; with lire f.equent stirring it will clarily aivl harden the tallow so as to make a most bcami- ful article for either vvinier or summer use, al most equal to sperm. THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 21 'raiE GKAIPE [F.om the North Carolina Farmer.] THE VINE NURSERY, PREP.4RATORY TO BE- GINNING A VINEYARD. Mr. Lem^y To start well is of the first importance in any bastness, and. ol agriculture especially. In most treatises on vine culture it is recommended to begin a vineyard by planting out cuuiiigs, and not unfrequent.ly this plan is attended with much unavailing labor and discouragement. Alter all the preparation ol ground and the like, many of ihe cuttings olten do not vegetate, and, if a dry season ensue, those that sprout frequently die. At least this was my experience some seventeen years since. And out of 301) ^'cupoernong cuttings that sprouted well in the spring, but bare one was alive in the lall. I had not then the knowledge that this kind ot grape very rarely succeeds by cuttings in any sort of season. The way ol propagating the Scuppernong is by layers, or that ol burying some of the sprouts grown from the lowest part of the vine. The spring is the best time, so soon as .sprouts start say a foot or so long. Cover with earth so as to leave the end of the sprout out a lew inches. In the tall they will be found to have small roots attached; and with any mots, however small, a Scupper- Jiong vine voill surely grow, if transplanted with proper care. But my plan, to prepare them for making a bearing vineyard speedily, is to cultivate them in the nursery, s,ay one, two or three years after detaching them from the parent stocks. Vines thus prepared fur a vine- yard, if properly transplanted and cultivated with common care, bear some the first season in the vineyard, and pretty well the second. So my own experience, and so that of others, as I am informed by purchasers in different parts of the country whither sent. 1 propagate other sorts of vines by layers also. But my usual mode with others or most others is by cuttings, as follows: In ground previously put in order, I run deep furrows three feet apart, and therein, slantwise, I place cuttings a foot or so long, and a few inches only apart in the furrow. After the cut- tings thus placed and one end stuck into the bot- tom of the furrow a little, and the other end left so high as not to be quite covered, 1 run a fur- row along side to cover them nearly. And, with a little adjusting with a hoe perhaps, the planting is finished. The afterculture is, to keep the ground clean and loose. If the above be done in the fall most of the cuttings sprout and live ; but if some die, there are still enough ge- nerallv to have a well set nursery. If found too thick, some, or say every other one, ma^’’ be removed after the first season’s culture. But from my nursery I keep thinning out to suit the call of customers. For, as my price varies, say Irom 15 to 75 cents each, according to age, size and number taken by one remittance and order, dilferent persons choose small as well as large rooted vine.? ; and I add, others take cut lings only at their low rate to make their own nursery as preparatory for a vineyard. As American vines are perfectly hardy, no need of any such trouble as laid down in Euro- pean treatise.s; such as coveringand uncovering buds in the spring lor fear of frosts and the like. In shoit, I have revealed my secret of vine nur- sery business, for as manv to rival me therein as choose. And for the encouragement for others to do this, I name that I have reason to be grateful to a generous public lor patronage in my nursery business generally and vines in particular. Most in my vicinity have small vineyards through my means. O.ae near neigh- bor, fir instance, from two Scuppernong vines only put in the edge of the garden some years since, and thence spreading branches over trees in a grove, has abundance of grape (ruit. Ano- ther neighbor from a few vines made fOO gal- lons of wine last season at my pre.sses. I box up vines with damp saw du-i^t or moss and send thena with entire success to all oarts of the Uni- ted States. For instance, by Norfolk and New Orleans, I serit winter before last, a bo.x to Nalches, State of Missis>ippi, qnd the , gentle- mar. remitting for them wrote to me they did finely; and added, that a bottle or so ot my Scuppernong Champaigne wine, as he called it, (sent with the vines.) was pronounced fi.^st-rate by good judges of w’ine there. I am aware, M. Editor, that the foregoing are very desultory observations; but perhaps not the worse on ihat account, if clearly unlolding the ideas intended. Indeed, i would say to fel- low agriculturists, inclined to throw in their mite of experience and inlormation as I do tor your useful print, to write just as their thoughts flow, and not be discouraged, because they had not time or perhaps scholarship to make a po- lished style of it; and if any bad grammar or bad spelling occurs, why you are the very one to make all correct, as far as requisite, by your long thorough experience as an Editor. * -if * * * * * OUTLINE OF AN AMERICAN VINEYARD FROM ITS BEGINNING. The following brief outline is the result ot much reading on the subject and some years of observation and experience. If it proves of any service to you in your praiseworthy object of raising the standard of Agriculture in our State, and to any readers of the “ Farmer” to enable them to speedily have a vineyard to their entire satislaclion, my object is attained in pen- ning it. 1. R,eject all kinds of foreign vines as well as all servile imitation of foreign modes of cul- tuie and wine making. 2. Thus unirammelled with foreign treatises on vine culture, as that of ouilitig dowm to so many joints ann ually and keepin.g the vines humble and 'he like; you must also reject, in your choice of American or native vines, all not pretty ihoroughly tested by experience to be free from the tantalizing propensity (wdiether young or old,) to rot or The like, as do foreign ones. 3. Of kinds known to be excellent in most or all resp.ecis, take those well rooted, or of some two or three years standing in the nursery, if you vri.?h your vineyard to forthw'ith begin to bear and go ahead in expanding its branches over seafioiding American fashion. 4. As to soil, site, or the like, (so much dwmlt upon in some treatises on vine culture,) I con- sider them unimportant, if the situation be dry enough and no! too rich. More clanger as to vines not bearing well from the ground being too rich than too poor. Any kind of soil I find will do, if properly managed. My vineyards all fl()Uii5h and bear well, though on six acres ot diverse description, as from the hardciayey to the very light sandy soil. If land will bring good corn it will do well for vines. 5. But you must have the site of your intend- ed vineyard in good clean order. Then in the lall or spring excavate wuth the plow, or other- wise, holes say every 20 feet each way for Scup- pernorg, and 10 for other vines, and plant as you w'ould fruit trees, with a stake north side a few inches from each vine. It the ground be sufficiently rich, surface earth alone throwm into the hole, say half i'uif of two feet deep, ere planting the vine, will do; otherwise, partly filled with manure and earth on top of that to prevent the roots coming in contact vrith the manure, and con.sequent danger of vines dying by dry weather the first season. 6. Trim in summer or fall merely to train one or t'vo main stems (without laterals and un- checke.l as to length,) to the stakes for, say two or three sea.sons, or till time to put in posts of oak or lightwood every 10 feet to support the rails or scantling for the canopy over which the vines to expand, ever after untrimmed, except as to any straggling lateral branches that might prevent a free passage of air or team; or say .•ill clear beneath, except the posts, lor 6 or 8 feet high under the canopies. 7. No part of the year are weeds or grass to appear in your vineyard, if you wish it to flour- ish and bear well. But especially just before and after hard frosts in the fall, must 'he ground underneath the canopies be well scarified, that, acccording to native plan ot Jertilizing the woods, no leaves or other litter mav blow or wash away, but all be incorj orated with the soil, as the very best substitute for other manur- ing. However, instead of thus doing, in some parts ot my vineyards, I cover underneath the canopies with a t.hick coating of pine straw to prevent ail undergrowth. 8. Some small matters, and 1 have done this off-hand piece, in plain, if not rough style, now longer than at first intended. 1. As to posts, they should be charred or burnt as to parr in and a little above the earth, and put into theground with the little end down or inverted as to the part upwards in the tree, to cause them to last longer; the squared end of the upper part of the post to have a clete or shingle nailed on each side to keep the scantling fast. 2. As fo mode of inserting posts, I do it in a wet time, with what we call a jobber^ or piece ol wood, say three feet long, sharpened at one end and near the other square end a round stick or piece of iron put through a large auger hole, with which and by a crowbar or strong slake, the jobber may be raised out of the ground af- ter having been driven in by a maul or beetle. Some jobbers have long handles (or drawn off’ at one end,) to enlarge the holes, if necessary, ere the posts are inserted. 3. As to inserting other posts, when first pul are giving way, or becoming too short bj let- ting down after the end in the ground rotting off it may he done at any time by forking up the scaffolding. 4. As to lies for fastening up the vines to the slakes when young, nothing betier than strips ot elm bark I find. The elm bark may begot in the spring, and at any time in summer ; when soaked an hour or two, is fit for use. The slripsolthis hark will outlast any strings 1 have ever tried, and are very convenient. 5. For thin strips of wood" to lay on the rails or scantling farsupporting the canopy branches of vines, any lasting wood will do; but cypress orcedtfr, as light, is best, vrhen conveniently pro- cured. In fact, a'ter the vine branches are well spread, very little support other than the scantling (10 feet apart) is required. In haste, yours, &c , with all due respect, Sidney Weller. BnnUcyville, Halifax Co., N. C, Sept. 25, 1845 Fine Cotton, We publish the following letter for the par- pose of showing the spirit of rivalry which rx- ists among our planting friends in the produc- tion ol fine cotton. We were shown the sample alluded to below, and so far as we are capable of judging, itishard to beat. „ „ "Valley Farm, Nov. 27, 1845. C. R. Woods, Esq.— Dear Sir.— Your letter of the 26th, with New Orleans price current, ot the 19th, has been received, tor the same accept my thanks. With this, I send a sample ot my be.'-t Cottons, although the sample is not as good as one I put up for Mr. Young, which 1 request- ed should be shown you, as it was taken from the top of the cotton, as in bulk; I think, though, in a few more days ginning, lean better each ot these sam.ples. Please let me know under what classification it will come on the same board with my friend’s, Col. Mc.Donald. I will put up about thirty bales of this kind. There is something in preparing a sample of cotton for exhibition, to make it appear extra, which Ida not understand. These are w'rapped up, with- out any pressing, &c. as taken from the gin, in order that they may be a fair sample of wfiat is in the bale. Fur all this pains in cotton, and really the improvement is very gieat, we are indebted to Col. M ?D. It will, in the end, I tru-st, make our port rank with Mobile. Respectfully, yours, &c. John H. Dent. There^are 140 different species of oak in the world — 70 of which are found in America and 30 in Europe. The oak will live GOO years. 22 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. TOBACCO CCg^TURE, MODE OT CULTIVATIKG IN MASON COUNTY, KY., AND IN CONNECTICUT. By request we republish below an article on the cultivation ol tobacco in Connecticut, and a communication irom Judge Beatty on the cul- tivation ot tobacco in Mason county. Though the .soil in these two regions is as different as possible, the tobacco is very nearly ol the same kind, fine segar leaf, and the inference is strong that thick planting is the secret of the similarity ol the product. It will be observed that in Con- necticut the rows are but three feet apart, while Judge Beatty states the distance in Mason at three and a half feet. Another coincidence in the mode of culture in the two pltmes is high topping.— F'ar. * [From the Albany Cultivator.] Messrs. Gaylord and Tucker: — We grow in this town annually about three hundred tons of tobacco, and in the valley ol the Connecticut about five hundred tons are grown annually. The yield the last year (1843) was less than usual, fifteen hundred pounds being about the average per acre. The price of tobacco, the last season, ol a fair growth, was seven cents a pound, and most of the crop was sold before housed and cured. We have two varieties of the weed, the broad leaf and narrov/ leaf— the latter is about two weeks the earliest. it seems our tobacco is of a peculiar species, or our soil and climate are peculiarly adapted lor the production ol a superior article. The soil that produces our best tobacco is a light sandy loam. We prepare our beds lor the seed as early in April as possible — select the richest or best land in thegarden or on the farm, moist but not wet — manure and prepare it as we do for the cultivation of cabbage or any deli- cate plant for transplan ting — pulverize and make the bed as hne and smooth as possible ; then sow the seed broadcast about as thick as we do cab- bage seed: then roll or tread down* the bed thoroughly, that the seed may be 'pressed intotlie soil. The bed is kept clean of weeds. In a common season the plants will be large enough for transplanting by the 10th of June. The land for the crop should be well manured, and plowed at least twice before the time of trans- planting, and harrowed and rolled, or hushed, and left as smoolfi as possible. We mark the rows three feet apart and straight; on the rows we make small hills for the reception of the plants, two feet to two feet six inches apart. We have our land all prepared by the time the plants are large enough lor transplanting. If raining at the time, we take the advantage of it and get all our plants out; if not, we set and water. After this, the field is examined several times, and where plants are dry, or injured by w'orms, others are set in. As soon as they stand well, they are carefully hoed and vacant places filled with new' plants ; after this the cultivator IS usedbetw'een the rows and the crop kept clean with the hoe. The plants are frequently a.nd thoroughly examined for the tobacco worms, and they must be destroyed, if not the croj) is sure to be. When in blossom, and before the formation of seed, it is topped about thirty-two inches from the ground, leaving from sixteen to twenty leaves on each stalk. After this the suckers at each leaf are broken off, and the plantskept clean til! cut. When ripe, the time of cutting, the leafis spotted, thick, and will crack when pressed between thumb and finger. It is cut any time in the day alter the dew is off, left in the row till w'ilted, then turned, and if there is a hot sun it is often turned to prevent burning; after wilted it is put into small heaps of six or eight plants, then carted to the tobacco sheds for hanging. We usually use poles or rails about twelve feet long; hang with twine about forty plants on each rail — twenty each side, by crossing the twine from the plant.? one side to the plants the other, the rails about twelve inches apart. It hangs from six to ten weeks to get perfectly cured, which is knowm by the stem of the leaf being thoroughly dried. It is then, in a damp time, when the leaves will not crumble, taken from the poles and placed in large piles by letting the topsofthe plants lap each other, leaving the butts ol the plants out. It remains in these heaps from three to ten days before it is stripped, depending on the state of the weather, but must not be allowed to heat. When stripped it is made into small hands; the small and broken leaves should be kept by themselves. It is then, by tlie purchaser, pack- ed in boxes of about lour hundred pounds, and marked seed leaf lobacco. The most of our last crop has been shipped to Bremen. I think we can cultivate one acre of tobacco with the same labor and expense that we can two acres of corn that produces sixty bushels to the acre, and the manure requ ired is about the same as tor the corn crop, and I do not think it exhausts the land as much as the corn crop, for it is not allowed to seed. East Windsor^ Jan. 1844. Henry Watson. Prospect Hill, April 26, 1844. Dear Sir : — Your favor, ot the 26th of March, was duly received, and would have been sooner answered, but that 1 desired tooblain some in- formation on the subject of your inquiry, from some of my friends in the tobacco growing re- gion of Mason county. I had occasion to take a ride through that part of the country, two days since, and met with some intelligent tobacco- growers, with whom I conversed freely on the sulject. 1 was for merly engaged in the tobacco culture, but have, for a number of years, di.s- continued its culture, and was, therefore, de- sirous of availing m3selt of any late improve- ments which might have been made. Fur the general mode of treating the tobacco crop, from the sowing of the seed till it is prepared lor prising, I refer you to my essay on that subject, published in the Kentucky Farmer, in March, 1841, and which will be republished in'a vol- ume of agricultural essays, now in press, and which will be ready lor delivery in about two months, a copy of which I will do myself the pleasure of sending you. In this letter 1 shall attempt togiveyou such additional information as may be useful in pro.lucing the fine toba' co cultivated for cigar wrappers. 1. With respect to the kinds oftobacco culti- vated for the above purpose : There are the Summerville and light Burley — some prefer the former and some the latter. I do not under- stand that either has a decided preference. 2. As to the soil suitable for its growth fine tobacco is found to succeed best on light rich soil, having a portion of sand mixed with it. New or fresh land is better than old ; and pretty steep hillsides, provided they are light and rich, are better adapted to producing fine tobaccothan level land. Hillsides, facing the Ohio river, and the numerous small branches emptying into it, when the land is newly cleared, and suffi- ciently rich, are well adapted to produce fine tobacco. I have seen these in cultivation, having an elevation of from twenty to thirty degrees. But level lands, or those nearly so, if new, and especially if the soil have a mixture of sand, are also well adapted to produce fine cigar tobacco. 3. As to the mode of cultivation : This, per- haps, is the most important point in producing fine cigar tobacco. The ground should be well prepared, and rendered as light and as finely pulverized as possible. In laying off for plant- ing, 1 w'ould advise the use of a single horse P'low,^ ihrow'ing the ground into ridges, three and a half feet from centre to centre, and then crossing, at right angles, with single furrows, at the distance of two feet from centre to centre, and make the hills, so as to be as near a true line as po.ssible, three feet and a half from cen- tre to centre one way, and two the other. I re- commend the use of a one horse plow, in layr ing off, because, in this way, the ridges will be but little trodden down, and the ground will be left in a light condition. The difference in the width of the rows is to facilitate the working ot the tobacco, after it attains some size. Close planting is found to be essentially ne- cessary in raising fine tobacco, In the above mode of planting, each plant occupies seven square feet, and six thousand two hundred and twenty-three plants will stand upon an acre, if none be missing; and, allowing tour plants to make a pound, the yield will be one thousand five hundred and fifty-five pounds per acre. 1 have heard of instances in which the product has been at the rate of a pound for three plants, or more than two thousand pounds per acre. But to produce this extraordinary crop, the sea- son must be vf ry favorable, and everything be managed in the most particular and skilful manner. To make fine tobacco, it is very important to piant '*«'/?/, so that the tobacco may be cured at that season of the year when the weather is warm and dry. To this end, plant beds should be sown very early and in situations where they have a good southeastern exposure. They should be lightly covered with brush to keep them moist until the plants get up, and a little while longer, if there is danger of hard frosts. New ground is best for plant beds. The hills for planting should be made as recently before the plants are ready as possible. These may be set out when very small, if the operation be skilfully managed, and thus the crop will be brought forward in good time. The plants should be topped to about sixteen leaves, exclu- sive ot the ground leaves, vdiich should be bro- ken off. I'he top leaves will, of course, not make fine tobacco, and must be separated when stripping, but high topping is important to' im- prove the quality ol the first ten or twelve leaves on each plant. It is the practice, in Mason, to cure tobacco without firing, except in damp rainy weather, when fire is applied to guard against what is called house burning, the danger of which is al- w'ays increased in rainy w'eather, especially where tobacco is hung clo.te. ' The almost universal mode of building tcbacco houses, in Mason, is to erect a four square pen of legs, hewed or round, with large open spaces between them, and then to construct a shed all around, about twelve feet wide, by planting posts in the ground, (locu.st if to be had,) and ship lapping scantling on these, at proper distances, from which poles are extended to the cracks of the log pen. The shed should he planked, up and dowm, to protect the tobacco from the weather. For the benefit of air, small interstices may be left between the planks, and it would be advan- tageous to have some broad planks, hung on hinges, on every side of the .‘hed, which might be opened in dry weather for the purpose of ventilation. It is now too late to sow tobacco seed, but if you w'ish it, I will procure and send}'ou some in time for next year. I have given, in answer to your inquiry, what seemed to me to be necessary. It you^wish farther information on an)' particular points, it will afford me pleasure, at all times, to comply with your wishes. Yours, cordially and sin* cerely, A. Beatty. To Cesrge W. Weissinger, Efq. Planting and Vegetating cf Garden Seeds* {Frotn {lie Colwnbus iGa.) Enquirer, Messrs. Editors: — As the season now ap- proaches for gardening, and very lew seem to properly understand the most suitable time and method of planting the different kinds ofgarden seed*', I thought you would confer a lav' r on a portion of your readers to publish a sia ement of the miost proper time to plant, and ihe vege- tating pow'ers of those kinds of s eds which suit our climate, and are in general use amongst us. The directions which follow' are for open cul- ture, and not for hot beds. Green Globe Arti- chokes, plant first of March in drills one inch deep, and eight or ten inchesapart, in rich eaiih, and transplant two feet apart when Ihe plant is six inches high. Asparagus, plant in February and March, in drills twelve inchesapart, cover the seeds about one inc h, when the plants are up, keep them clear of Weeds and the earth mel- low' around them, they wdll be fit to transplant w'l.en one year old ; transplant into a rich coiur THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 23 pust well rotted, aboalten inches each way, the third year the buds will be eatable. Beans, English Dwarf the climate is too hot lor ; Kid- ney or Snap cannot be safely planted until April, as a slight frost will kill them ; plant in hills 12 inches apart and three in the drills. Pole Beans may be planted the same time, poles should be about four feet apart and four or five beans around a pole. Beets may be planted- from February to April, they are slow in ger- minating and should be soaked in water thirty- six hours before planting; let the ground bemel- low and plant in drills 12 inches apart and 3 inches in the drill ; cover the seed about an inch, when the plants are up three or four inches, thin them out to eight inches. Brussel Sprouts and common Kail may be sown broadcast any time from April to May, and transplanted the last of July two feet apart each way, Broco- 11 and Cauliflower, need only to be known to be extensively cultivated here ; Brocoli is only a purple variety of Cauliflower, perfectly hardy; early Cauliflowers rar(dy ever come to anything here, but the late kind, with the Brocoli, maybe sown broadcast any time from April to May and transplanted in July or August two feet apart each way, they will produce their rich pulpy heads all winter. Cabbage, early varie- ties may be sown broadcast from January to March, and transplanted as soon as the, plants w’ill bear moving; the late kinds from March to June, transplant the last of July, putting the entire stock in the ground up to the leaf, which will cause it to head large and firm. Carrot is rather slow in germinating and should he soak- ed twenty-four hours before planting, plant in drills 12 inches apart, as thin as possible in the drills, thin out to five inches. Celery may be made very fine by sowing in rich ground and not transplanting ; plant in March, drills three feet apart, sow as thin as possible in the drill, and knoll or trample the seed -in, when up to three or four inches, thin out to eight inches, as the plant increases in size draw the earth to it in clear dry weather. Cucumbers, Squashes and Melons, are not safe to plant before April. Esfg Plant is very tender and should not be planted before April, plant in drills and trans- plant as soon as the plant is three inches high, two feet apart. Early Corn may be planted the last of February, in hills four feet apart each way, three kernels in a hill; some kinds will be eatable in six weeks from planting. Leek is hardy, and maybe sown in drills 12 inches apart, in February. Lettuce may be sown broadcast or in drills, any time from January to April, transplant as soon as the plants bear moving. Okra is tender and may be planted about the first of April, in drills three feet apart and six or eight inches in the drill. Cnion hardy, but difficult to vegetate, unless soaked twenty-four hours before planting, sow in drills 12 inches apart, three inches in the drills, about the middle of February, let the ground be rich and mellow, and trample the seed in, or stamp aboard along the drills after planting; there are no finer Onions made in the United States, than are made here from seed. Parslev is hardy, slow in vegetating, and should be soaked tbirtyrsix hours before planting; it may be sown in drills or on borders, in February. Par- snip is hardy, may be sown in drills in Februa- ry l2 inches apart, thin out to five inches in the drill. Peppers are tender, should not be plant- ed until April, plant in drills 12 inches apart, and transplant as the plant will bear it. En- glish Peas, the early kitcds may be planted in January, February and March, the latter kinds in March and April, plant in drills two feet apart, drop the peas thick in the drill, cover about one inch, keep the ground mellovv, and when the peas a^^e six inches hiuh- stick them; the early Dwarf kind need no sticking; for Fall Peas, plant the early kinds in August, and shade with straw. Radishes and Salsify are hardy, and may be planted in Fehrnar/ and March, in drills 12 inches apart, and four in the drills; Salsify remains good in the ground all winter. Spinnage is hardy, may be planted in February in drills eighteeq inches apart, in rich ground, and thin out to ten inches in the drill. Tomatoes may be planted the ia.st of March, plant in drills eighteen inches apart, and thin out to eighteen inches in the drill, they can also be transplanted. Turnips, early kind may be planted in drills in February and March, twelve inches apart, thin out to G inches in the drill; late kinds in July, August and September, broadcast, except Rutabaga’s, which should be sowed in drills three feet apart, and thin out to ten inches in the drill. Button Onions, Onion Sets, Garlic, Shallots, &c., may be put in the ground any time from October to April. The above directions are what my own expe- rience has proved to suit this climate,* and it they are folio wed with ordinary seasons there will be few failures in Gardening. Truly yours, Cuas. A. Peabody. Plantation Garden for tlie South. BY T. AFFLECK. These dircalioiis for the management of the Plantation Garden, being prepared for the latitude of Natchez, Miss., can very easily be adapted to a degree or two farther north, or south. The garden is a primary object on every plantation. Much is saved by it; and much added to the health and comfort of the laborers. Wholesome, well-cooked vegetables are pre- ferable to anything else, during hot weather. The garden must be proportioned in extent to the nuinber to be supplied from it. For one of some size, instead of a spot laid off in small beds, to be cultivated exclusively with the spade and hoe, select a piece of good ground, no mat- ter what the exposure. Shape, if possible, an oblong square ; run one main center walk or road lengthwise ; and such otheis as may be thought requisite; and enclose ihe who'e with a good and sufficient fence. Even though natu- rally very rich, add a coat of well-rotted manure, as early as practicable in the winter; and im- mediately turn it under, by running two good plows in the furrow, one behind the other — thus plowing it to the depth of ten inches, or as deep as the soil will admit ol, even turning up a little of the 'subsoil, if not positively bad. When in this rough state even a slight freezing is of great advantage. As the ground is needed for plant- ing, give a top-dressing of manure or rich com- post,turning it under with a light plow; and if at all cloddy, run the harrow over it. As more correct and particular directions can be given, and with less repetition, where each variety of vegetables is treated of separately, thac plan is here adopted, in preference to giving a monthly calendar. Potaloes.— The sweet and the Irish potatoe are vegetables of great importance. They are cultivated here in the same manner as in the middle states, and should be planted as early as March or April. Twraips are sown from the 20ih of July to last ol September — sowing three or four sepa- rate patches, at as many different times. They are usually sown broad-cast, but would pay well lor the trouble of drilling and tending. The turnip patch is most commonly enriched by pen- ning the cows on the spot intended for it— but a niece of newly cleared ground is better, produ= cing sweeter roots and fewer weeds. Cabbages are produced abundantly in the south, il properly managed, and are the favorite vegetable on a plantation. They head best on old land enriched with stable manure. For early spring use, make several sowings of seed frotn the middle of August to first of October, of early York, sugar loaf, &c. During very cold weather, protect the young plants with pine boughs, or magnolia leaves; or with stiff brush lai I between the rows and covered with corn stalks and other litter. Plant out earl'y in Feb- ruary. For summer use, sow in January, pro- tecting as above; plant out wheirlarge enough. For winter use, sow drumhead or other large sorts, in April ; lelthem stand in the nursery beds all summer, when they will ru.n up a tall stem; during the rains in August, set them out in rich ground, laying their long stems in so deep as just to leave their heads out of the ground. Il planted out sooner they will rot; if sowed much later than April they will not head; and the roofs being placed tolerably deep in the ground, enables the plants to stand the autumnal drought. Plants from seedsgrowa in the South will not head. Okra. — A large mess of okra soup (called gumbo) should be served on every plantation at least lour days in the week, while the vegetable is in season. The pods are gathered while still tender enough to be cut with the thumb nail; cut into thin slices, and with tomatoes, pepper, &c., added to the rations of meat, forms a rich mucilaginous soup. It is planted about the first of March, in drills four feet apart, leaving a plant every two and a half or three feet, if the ground is rich, which it should be. Peas. — Although the dwarf, marrowfat, charl- ton, &c., are occasionally grown in sufficient quantity for plantation use, il is but rarely. They would form an excellent and wholesome addition to the rations. The crowder and com- mon co'vv peas being of easy cui'.ure, requiring no sticks, being great bearers, and lasting all summer, are indispensable. In winter the ripe peas form a fine variety. They are planted at any time from the 1st of February to the last of July, either among the corn or alone, in drills three feet apart, leaving a plant at every foot. Beans.— Kidney or snap beans are planted in succession during March, April and May, ei- ther in hills two and a half feet apart, or in rows three feet apart, leaving a plant every lour inch- es. The Hale white bunch bean sent from the North in such quantities, can be raised in the Sou'h as easily as any other sort. Lima Beans, or butter beans, are grown in hills tour leelapart, first planting a stout pole in the hill plant first of April ; leave three to four plants ; or they are drilled along the walks, first forming a rough arbor of stakes or of canes lor them to run on. They are easily cultivated-- procuring and planting the stakes being the principal labor — and are very productive and nutritious. Tomatoes are indispensable. Sow the seed m a bed that can be protected, early in Februa- ry. Plant out as soon as there is no longer danger of fro.st, in rows four feet apart, a plant every two and a hall feet. A few seeds may be sown about last of April, and again about last of May, to bear until frost ; the early plant- ings will cease to bear by August. Onions and Scallions ought to be cultivated in considerable quantity. They are of easy culture and favorites with the people. Bunches ot scallions may be divided and set out in rows at anytime from September to March. Onion seed is sown in drills during the fall or early winter, and are drawn while young and used as scallions — leaving enough of plants to occu- py the ground, where they will bulb. /Sgii^sA.— Of this there are two sorts, with, many sub-varieties — the summer bush and the 1 running squash. The former will produce the greatest number on the smalFst space ot ground— the latter, however, continue longer in bearing. Plant toward the end of March, and again about the middle of April; the bush sorts in hills three feet apart, leaving one plant in a hill; the running squash in hills seven feet apart, leaving two plants. The Kentucky cn= shaw, a large, striped, crook-necked sort, can be kept, with a slight protection, all winter. A good supply of squash is desirable, as a whole- some and favorite vegetable ; jt v.'ill moreover prevent your people using young, green pump- kins, which are vety un wRolesome. As the squash become fit for use, they must be picked off for use, or the plants will .soon cease to bear. Mustard, which may be sown broadcast, and tolerably thin, the seed being very small, in Oc- tober or November, on a piece of good ground. Mustard makes a wholesome and favorite dish all winter, and early in the spring, boiled with a piece of pickled pork. Like turnips, when sown for the same purpose, it requires no cuU tiyafion, if the ground is tolerably clean, 24 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. ®:i)e Soutl)crn €ulti»ator. AUGUSTA, GA. VOI.. BV., P' the pro- cess recommended in these agricultural publica- tions, for cultivating, manuring, deep plov.'ing in- stead of scratching, those who have practised it have found to their perlect satisfaction, that by Lhe cultivation oi less, land, they raise larger crops of all kinds, have a greater supply of all the necessary articles for plantation use, work less hands, use less agricultural implements and plantat'on stock and make more money. All this may be traced, directly or indirectly, to the cir- culation of agricultural periodicals.” A Farmer’s Fife. thur readers no doubt remember the speech of the the Rev. Mr. Choules, at the anniversary of the Massachusetts Horticultural Society. They will notice, also, his letter, in another column of this paper, on the duty of the clergy in connection with agriculture. We have the. pleasure now to make an extract from a speech of this gentleman, on another occasion, which is worthy of a 1 com- mendation : “1 wish I could see (he says,) in all our farm- ers a disposition to magnify their calling ; but T have been grieved in many a farm-house, to lis- ten to lamentations over what they term their ‘ hard lot.’ I have heard the residents upon a noble farm, all paid for, talk about drudgery, and never having their work done, and few or no op- portunities for the children ; and I haye especial- ly been sorry to hear the females lament over the hard fate of some promising youth of seventeen or eighteen, who was admirably filling up his duties, and training himself fer o tensive useful- ness and infiuence. They have made compaii- son between his situation, coarsely clad and working hard, and coming in fatigued, with some college cousin, or young man who clerked it in a store, till at length the boy has become dissat- isfied, and begged off from his true interests and happiness. “ I am conversant with no truer scenes of en- joyment than I have witnessed in American farm-houses, and even log-cabins, where the fa- ther, under the influence of enlightened Chris- tianity, and sound views of life, has gone with his family, as the world have termed it, into the woods. The land is his own, and he has every inducement to improve it ; he finds a healthy employment for himself and family, and is never at a loss for materials to occupy his mind. I do not think the physician has more occasion for research than the farmer ; the proper food of vege- tables and animals wili alone constitute a wide and lasting field of investigation. The daily journa) of a farm.eris a source of much interest to himseli and others. The record of Ms labors, the expression of his hopes, the nature of his fears, the opinions of his neighbors, the results of his experiments, the entire sum total of his operations, will prove a deep source of pleasure te any thinking man. If the establishment of agricultural societies, and the cattle shows of our country, should have the effect of stimulating one farmer in every town to manage his land and stock upon the best principles of husbandry, there would be a wonderful and speedy alteration in the products of the earth, because comparison would force itself upon his friends and neighbors; and his example would be certainly beneficial, for prejudice itself will give way to profit.” Great Yield of Corn. When, last year, we spoke of .the production of bushels of corn from an acre by Mrs. Lewis, of Hancock, and expressed our confidence that 150 bushels might, and wmuld ere long, be raised on an acre, in the Southern States, some per- sons charged us with making a very extravagant p)rediction. Extravagant as it may have appear- ed, it is in a very fair way to be fulfilled. “ We are informed,” says the Highland Mes- •senger of the 23th ult., “ by Mr. Alexander Por- ter, the manager on the farm of Thomas T. Pa-t- ton, Esq , that an acre of corn was planted on the farm the last season with w’hich it was designed to contend for the prize offered .by the Buncombe County Agricultural Society, and that a few days since the corn was gathered and measured, and the yield wis one hundred and thirteen bu- shels and a half ! Mr. Patton will no doubt take the prize. His farm is on Swannano river. “ Here farmers, is an evidenee of what can be done. Had the season been good, Mr. Porter has no doubt the yield would have been one hundred and fifty bushels ! “To show what industry and management can accomplish, wc take the liberty of stating a fact related to us by Mr. Porter. He says that from three-fourths of an acre of land he produced and sold $55.43 worth of Watermelons.! besides a large number consumed on the place. We state this as an inducement to others to use their heads as well as hands, and to show them that what they might despise as a small business, may be made a source of no inconsiderable pro- fit.” Horses. One of the editors of the Dollar Farmer spent part oflast summer in Vermont, and while there collected a good deal of information about the famous Morgan Horse. In one of his letters, he says : “I find that the breeding of horses in the last' few years has been much neglected. I have con- versed with some of the Oesf judges of horses and some of the most experienced breeders and dealers in the State. There is no doubt whatever of this— that the breed of the Morgan horse was, and is now, in the few instances w'here it can be found, far the best breed of horses for general service that ever wasin theU. States* — probably the best in the world; and it is re- markable that this breed was and is now known by many striking pecnliariiirs, common to near- ly every individual. They have a full, heavy, wavy mane and tail, good head and neck, small well shaped ears, are broad between the eyes, legs broad and short with large tendons, bodies rather thick set ; hut their most striking pecu- liarity is in their carriage, legs well under, trot quick, short, and springy, forelegs bending re- markably, the very reverse of the slow, sloudiy movement of the race horse in a tiot. They are likewise exceedingly hardy and well tem.pered. The great demand for this breed caused all at first to turn their attention to it. Great numbers were bred and the price fell. In the meantime the price of wool rose and everybody went into the wool business. But the fame of Vermont horses spread abroad, and those that were left were nearly all bought up and sent off, including most of the finest mares. The people of New -York came over in great numbers with their horses and swapped them off for the Morgan horses. The result is that nov/ there are twenty common horses to one Morgan. But still you do find an occasional ftlorgan horse, and when you do there is no mistaking him for any other breed. I saw the celebrated Slrerman Morgan, Black Hawk, at Bridport, and I think he deserves all the praise that has been bestowed upon hinu He is the finest stallion I ever saw. His legs are fiat and broad, shoulders well setback, loin and back- bone very strong, lengttiof hip beyond anything I ever saw, as quick in breaking as the bullet, from the rifle, head and neck faultless ; in motion mouth open, crest sublimm, legs carried finely under him, square and even, and fore-legs bend- ing beautifully. Sir. Cotterel, of this place, who is as well ac- quainted with horses as any man in Vermont, says there is not the slightest doubt that the ori- ginal Morgan was got by a Canada horse. He says the most probable account of his origin is this: A man by the name of Smith, at Plainfield, N. H., had a fine imported mare. He rode this mare to Canada on a courting expedition, and while there his mare got in foal. Smith regretted the accident, and setting no valut upon the colt, he sold it to Mcrgan, a singihg master, who, when the colt was grown, rode him about on his sing- ing circuit. '•Vhen the coils from Morgan’shorse grew up they proved fine, and this gave him cele- brity. He was a fleet runner at short distances, and this originally induced the people to try him. Of the old klorgan’s progeny three became fa- mous as stallions, viz: the Sherman Morgan, Lhe Woodbury, or Burbank, and the Chelsea.^ Of these the Sherman Morgan was greatly the most distinguished. I have a'fecertained to a certainty that he died in the winter of 1835. Black Hawk was sired by him. The Chelsea Mo.gan is the only one of the three yet alive. He is said to be yet full of vigor. “ Such is the family likeness between the Canada horse and the .1: organ, that 1 find that some horse dealers here believe that the old Mor- gan was a genuine Canada. Certainly the evi- dence is clear that his valuable and characteristic qualities were derived from, the broad-legged Canada breed. Mr. Cotterel believes that rite Morgan horse would be a fine cross for the Ken- tucky horse, but he says he would prefer the Canada horse. He recommends that Canada mares as well as horses should be taken to Ken- tucky. A great msny Canada horses are import- ed and sold in Boston. Some of them are very fleet trotters and command from SSOOtoSTOO. Mr. C. saw last winter a large drove of Kentucky horses at Baltimore. He considered them much inferior to the \’'ermont horses, and he says that the prices asked for tiiem were greatly less than the prices got for the Vermont horses at Boston. The best place to purchase Canadian horses is some distance around Montreal and in the neigh- borhood ol Q,uebec. Just around Montreal they are much purchased up. The best of them can be purchased for $150. The pacing hoise of Canada is said to have proceeded from the Nar- raganset pacers rode over to Canada by fugitives from N'ew England. Very truly yours, g. ww. In another letter, speaking of the horses used in the wagons on the road from Cumberland to Wheeling, he says: Such road draft- horses are nowhere else to be found on the earth. They are as large and as strong as the Eng'ish cart horse, with greatly better limbs and more action. Of hundreds tha t I saw it w’ould be difficult to match the meanest in Kentucky, wheie there has been so much ra- cing “ to improve the breed.” This breed of horses is known, I believe, as Badgers. They are found in Pennsylvania and the norlhern part cf Maryland. I hope some enterprising breeders in Kentucky will import some of them to cross our stock. Racing improves the breed of race horses, but the less racing blood the better for every thing but the turf. No two animals of the same species could well be more unlike in form than the Morgan or Canada horse and the racer, and nothing could be more manifest than the superiority of the former over the latter as fast moving roadsters, with or without heavyweights We have the racer, (enough for sport, and they are fit for nothing else unless it be for an express mail); let us breed off from the racer with the Morgan and Canadian and the Conestoga. .Some people have an idea that the more race blood the better for all purposes. The idea is refuted by experience in a 1 coun tries. No racer is equal to the London cart-horse or the Conestoga lor he dray or veagon. None are equal to the English hunter for hunting. None equal to the Canada pacer for pacing. -None equal to the Canada, Vermont orNew York erotte'’r fortrotiing. None equal to the F.nElish Cleveland bay li.r "coaches. In England they hav"- distinct breeds forevery use — amblers for ladies’ riding horses, hunters for fo.x-hunting, cart-horses for carring, Cleveland bays for carriages, and race horses"for the turf. It should be ordered in the same way here. Very truly, yours, g. w. w. Good— Excelle!it==l!ifailiMe. There never was a belter prescription made np, any where, lor that most horrible of all dis- eases, Dyspepsia. Let these Yankees alone, and they’ll find out, some day, a cure for thun- derstorms, hurricanes, earthquakes andeclipses. Cure FOR Dvspepsi.v. — In a recentconversa- lion between a dyspeptic clergyman and a Yan- kee, the following occurred: “Tell you what, if you ministers, when you gits a salary, ’d just git some land, and dig yonr own corn and taters, guess as howyou would’nt git the dyspepsy.” “Right, Iriend — I’ll record that.” “ Know Parson H , down here in Beth- lehem T’ “Yes.” “Beatsa fe ler all holier at mowin’and niich- in’. See’d him stick apis last winter, at d haint a teller in town can come within a rod on him. Grand feller, sm.irt chap— preaches like si.xty!” 28 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. Coxv=o'.osy. The last number of the Farmers' Library brings iis acquainted witn a very curious book on a very curious subject. The title of the book is “ A Treatise on Milch Cows; whereby the qiudily and quantity of milJc which any cow will (rive, may be accurately determined, by observing natural marks or external indications alone, the length of time she will continue to give milk,<^c. By M. Francis Gcknon, France. And the ob- ject ot the book is to propose a system, by which, in addition to what is .specified in the title, on e.xamination of a calf a few months old, its fu- ture milking qualities may be predicted. Strange as this may appear, it is, nevertheless, rnain- tainea to be true by members of the highest character of the Agricultural section of the French Academy of Sciences. And in the Journal d' Agticulture Pratique, as quoted by the Farmers’ Library, itisstated that. Monsieur Guenon, a farmer of Libourne, having dis- covered an infallible method of ascertaining the lactiferous qualities of cows, by means of certain invariable signs, easily to be found on these anima'r, inviieda rigid investigation of his theory, by the Agricultural Society of Toulouse. A committee was accordingly ap- pointed by ihafSociely, w’ho reported; “ We conducted Mr Guenon into seven cow- stables with which he was entirely unacquaint- ed. Here fl.rty-six cows v ere submitted to his inspection. In twwnty-two instances he named the exact num 'icr of yin's given by each cow ; in fourteen he came wiihin a pint, and in ten with- in two or three pints. “Exact precision as to number ot pints, how- ever is deemed as of little importance, as the quantity of milk is liable to vary, with many circumstances, as f)od, temperature, date of calving, &c. But the main fact ofihediscovery w’e consider, fes established, as Morisieur Guenon invariably di'iinguish'es the good from the bad milkers. Highly respectable as are these foreign au- thorities, we should still have some suspicion that there might possibly be some mistake in the matter, were it not that one ot our own citi- zens has prepared a translation ol Monsieur Guenon’s book- for American readers. N. P. Tkist, formerly U. S. Consul at Hava- na, now engaged in the department cf State at Washington Cilv, is the frans'ator. His name is a sufficient guarantee that there is no humbug in the business. Here is what he says about it in his prclace : T R E A T 1 E ON M I I. C II COWS. The Tnmslator to the Reader. Nonsense ! Who can believe any such thing? What! bv merely looking at a cow, to be able to tell how much milk she is capable ol be'ing made to yiel-i; and, also, how long she ' can continue to give milk after being got with c^lf!_lo be able thus to ascertain, not only what are the qualities of a full grown cow, but what are to be the qualities of any heifer- calf, by looking at her while yet but two or three months old! Surely, it ever there was a humbug, this is one. Softlv, Mr. Reader! You are very incredu- lons, no doubt, but I d-tfy you to be more so than 1 was when in your present position. Whatis more, I ddy you to elina to your skepticism more than ari hour or so. Htnvever strong and firm it may be at this moment, i‘ will, in a little while, hive vanished into nothing; anil iis place will be filled bv another solid proof in ad- dition to the many that you have already stored up, thax “ There are more things in heaven and earth , Than are dreamt of in your jbilosophy.” When this discovery was first mentioned to me, as one which had recer.ily been published in France, I smiled at the credulity of some peo- ple. My informant perceiving what effect the announcement had upon me, said, “ It is so, however;'’ and then, nothing but politenes-s towards a stranger, for the first time under my roof, prevented my replying, “You do notreally believe this to be possible.” He offered to send me the book; and, though 1 had not the least idea of throwing away my lime in reading it, civility would not allow me to decline, it came, and i opened it with the intention merely ol looking into it sufficiently to say that 1 had done so. W^hen, however, in turning the pages over, i saw that this piece of quackery, as 1 I'elt very sure the pretended dis- covery must be, had engaged the attention of distinguished Agiicultural Societies in France, and had earned “ Gold Medals” for its author in a country where they are not prone to be lavish u( such substantial marks ofapprohation, my curicsity was awakened, and I had soon ' read enough to bring home to me once more, for the thousandth time, that homely old tiutb, “ W^e live to learn.” Since then, manv things have occurred to strengthen my confidence in the reality of this discovery, and in its high practical value ti all interested in the preservation and improvement of milk stock— and who is it that is not interest- ed in its prodneliveness? The most recent of these incidents is as follows : A friend to whom I had lent the translation accompanied with the plaies which are requisite to make it intelligible, showed it to a man from the courdry whose calling had rendered him quite conversant with thesubject of cattle. This person’s curiosity was so far awakened, that, beside attending tothe explanations made to him, he took a sketch oi some o\' escutcheons ■ — After an absence ofsome weeks, he .returned to the city where this had happened, and came to see my friend. “That thing (said he) is as true as a book. There is no mistake about the mat- ter. Since I was here, I have looked at more cows than ever you saw, and I am perfectly satisfied that the thing is just as ihe Frenchman says. I have become convinced, too, of another thing : that our breeds of cattle are by no means the great things they are cracked up to be.” N. P. T.. ©uiginai QTammiimcations. To the Ed- tor of the Southern Cultivator: Mr. Cam.-mj : — Ttie business of the day is over, and f have finished saving the December nu.mbers of the Southern Cultivator, the Alba- ny Culiivaior. and the American Agriculturist, making the file for 1845 complete lor these three excellent woiks; 'and the Novembernum- ber of the Tenne-see Agriculturist is also sew- ed on. While engaged in the above pleasant business ol preserving the above work’s, so that they may answer the double purpose oi consul- tation and reference vi hile I iive, and be handed down to those who w'ill come after me when lam no more, m.}'' mind naturall}' turned to my friends while thus employed. I at once deter- mined to take up my pen and say sornethirig to the tarmers. I am ihe more stimulated to do this as our post office law has been changed, and it will only cost five cents to tell you some- thing of ihe day’s business now the year is coming to a close. I say the day’s business. Now, Mr, Editor, you know I live down South in the land of flowers in the spring, and ever- greens in the winter. In the early part of the day 1 h.Tve been engaged in digging np the young Magnolia, and, by ihe-by, I was more fortunate in fi-ding them on yesterday than ever 1 was beture, that is, in procuring small ones, fir it is unnecessary to attempt to raise those that are of any siz '. The Ivy, the two varie- ties of the Biys, the Rhododendron, the Yellow Jasmin, the Daik Hydrangea, the Holly, I am colleeiing together with many other evergreens, to send to Mr, S. B. Parsons, of Long Island. While visiting that kind gentleman the past summer, we agreed to enter into an exchange of trees, shrubber}', &c. He lias promptly complied, and has sent me out a vaiieiy of fruit and ornamental trees, andnow I am making an effiii t to comply. Perhaps some of my old friends in my native Stale, Georgia, will say to themselves, you had better be employed in so nething else. In an- swer, 1 must say, we can beautify our residen- ces, and do something else too. Alter get’ing through the trees,^ I v erii to the furm, four miles distant, to see how things were getting on there, as I visit my fariii every day, and as the close of the year and the commencement ol the new year is, if possible, more important than any other season. This is the time that the farmer should close bis old book for 1845, and com- mence a new one for 1846. Now, Mr. Editor, I mean precisely what I say. Every farmer should keep a weekly and daily diary ot all his operaiions. Mine is a small farm, and I close at page 204, and have commenced my book for I84G. We commenced on yesterday morning hauling out oiir compost manure with twoycke of steers and two carts, the distance to haul not great. The carts hauled out on yesteiday 22 loads each. On an av’erage, 20 loads a dav will be as much as they will be able to haul. Each cart hauls 15 bushels to ihe load, making daily 600 bushrls, and it will take 50 days to haul it out, which will be thirty thousand bu- shels of manure. Now, Mr Editor, it has ta- ken much tabor to prepare this manure, and still I have no doubt but thal we will be well paid in the end. We have refused nine cents per pound for our cotton, wiihin four miles of where it wms raised; we expect 12 cents per lb. in New Or- leans and Nev.' York, as we will this year send some to each place. So, Mr. Editor, the read- ing of Agricultural papers is not such a bad business alter all. Your friend, Alexander McDonald. Enfanla, Ala,. Dec. 30, 1845. Agriculfiiral Experiments— Be Careful in Making, Mr. Camak : — It is usual wheyi a letter is ad- dressed to an editor for publicalii n, that his name be annexed IherHo, I oppose the plan, from the fact, that private or public exposure does not taste well; and anoiher reason is, that a communication for agricultural purposes is different from that of a political one, and there could scarcely originate a cause for offence, end particularly too, when it is intended for our mu- tual benefit; but at the .same time, if necessary, the author should give his name in full. My object for writing is, to know why there exist such a difference of opinion upon agricul- ture, not only in things of an abstruse nature, but of the most plain and simple operations connected with ihe farming business. Oneman will tell you, that manure should be applied to the surface ; another will tell you, that it should be Covered, and that if put upon the top of the earth, there will be a serious loss both by wa.sh- ing and evaporation. Some will tell you that this should be done, another will say, that this should he done, thereby causing conflicting opi- nions and much contusion. It dees seem tome that we have too many scientific arid practical agriculturists in the South .ffir so much skepti- cism to exist long, anti it must be rooted out if we ever expect to be worthy of the name of agticulturists. Let us follow Crockett’s advice, “ Be certain that you are right, then go ahead.” Such would f say lo all agricultural correspem- dents. Don’t .submit your farming notions to a careless examination or a partial experin ent, but probe, probe, probe, until there is nothing left to probe, then hawf your knowledge of tl ese things published for ilie benefit of yqur broil. er farmers RespecMuHv, B. B. Cassville, Dec. 16, 1845, THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 29 « Piantatiou Economy. Mr. C-iM.vK:— I had a pretty good beef slaughtered on the last day of December. Per- ] haps 3'ou and the readers of the Ccltiv^tor j will not thinlr it amiss lor me to give a stale- | ment of my manner of fattening, an l his value ; when taken from service, and what 1 consider- ed his value when slaughtered, worth oi teed, &c. I do not think hisweisht anything to brag of, but shall make the following statement to show what a man may gain by-a little attention and trifling expense: This beet was an old broken down ox, some 14 or 15 vears old, taken from the voke the first ol last March, and had common pasturage from then till harvest. His fare was then pretty good till the first of Sep- tember. About that time the army worm made a sweep of our grass. From that time till pull- j ing corn he was on the decline. J put him in a | pen of about a quarter ot an acre aboutthe 15;h l of October, expecting to fatten him on corn ! and cob meal, which be ate kindly at first, j There being some hogs in the same pen which 1 were led on boiled lood, the ox soon began to i taste of the hogs’ food, and after a while reins- j ed the feed in his trough, preferring the boiled feed, such as turnips, collards, pumpkins and i artichokes, with a portion ol corn and cob ; meal intermixed. He had no other teed after j his choice was fully made, except occasionally j a rav,’ pumpkin chopaed up and raw sweet po- ; tatoes. 1 do not think he could have been sold tor mote than S'o when he wa.s taken from the yoke. I further think that it would be doing : injustice lo make a charge of more than S15 for his leedaad attendance. I now give the state ' ment of his v eight, value, (fee : j Nett beef, including suel fdt, 704 lbs. at 4j cents. S‘31 63 Tallow. 73 pounds at 10 cents 7 80 Hide, 86 " “ 5 4 30 Head, haslet, tripe and feet I 50 Tolal proceeds -Si.5 28 Value when taken from work §5 Feed, attendance, .oyal Charlotte, and Barring- ton. Nectarines. — Selection of choice hardy Nec- to,rines, for a small gamden. — Early Violet, El- ruge, Hardwicke Seedling, Hunt’s Tawn)', Boston, P.oman, New White. The Guince. — The apple-shaped is the most popular variety. It bears large round fruit, re- sembling the apple in shape, of fine flavor when cooked. The Portugal is considered superior to all others in flavor, its flesh becomes deep crimson wiien cooked. It is a shy bearer. Raspberries. — The Yellow Antwerp and the Red Antwerp are the best of the old va- rieties. The Red Antwerp is very different from the common red which goes by that name. It is rather tender. Ol the new kinds tried in this country the Franconia and Fastolff are highly esteemed. The Ohio Ever-bearing is recommended as deserving a place in every gar- den. The Victoria is a new kind, not tried fully in this country, said to equal the Red Antwerp in flavor, audio bear freely from July to December. Subsoil Plowing. From the Southern Planter. Amongst the agricultural discoveries of mo- dern times, none perhaps deserves to rank high- er than the invention oi'the subsoil plow. The value of this implement will, it is true, vary much with the nature of the earth to which it is applied, but in most situations we believe it to be one of the cheapest and most efficient means of improving the soil. It is a happy expedient, by which all the old opposition to deep plowing is at once lemoved. By this means, the earth can be stirred and mellowed to a great depth, whilst the shallow mould upon the surface is kept where it is most desirable to re- tain it. If any farmer is so g'rten as to ask, what is the use of breaking up the soil below, v.'e answ-er, that il is only pulverized earth that attracts and retains moisture. If, a lew inches below the surface, you have a compact clay, into which the roots of plants can never pene- trate, when the exhausting heat of the summer sun has evaporated the moisture, as it will do for several inches, what is to support the plant"? Ohi then we have a drought, as it is called ; but if you will permit the roots to penetrate 15 to 20 inches into your subsoil, (and they will gladly avail themselves ot the opportunity, they will then find inexhaustible supplies of mois- ture in which they mav revel, secure from the withering rays ol the fiery sun, which seek in vain to penetrate their store house. But the prevention ol drought is by no means all the benefit to be derived Ircm subsoil plow- ing. Beneath that portion of the earth’s sur- face which has been subjected to cultivation, lies a virgin soil, possessed ol different but un- exhausted, and frequen.ly very valuable mine- ral properties. It sometimes happens that this soil in its primitive slate is very inimical tri ve- getation, but when fieely operated upon by the atmosphere, it undergoes chemical changes that assimilate it to the most produciive of the virgin soils that are found upon the surface. To this operation of the atmosphere, these slumbering stores of feriilization areexposedby the breakening and loosening efl'ect of the sub- soil plow. 32 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVAl’OR After the subsoil has been thus regenerated by the admission of the atmosphere into its bo- som, it may be turned up with the greatest ad- vantage, and gradually converted irorn to snrlace soil. In this way, not only will valua- ble mineral ingredients be eventually nrought to the surface, where without injury they may be exposed still larther to the meliorating in- fluence of the atmosphere, but it also not unfre- qnently happens that into this subsoil has been Altered the saltsof manute applied to thesurface. This is a very preti)' theory, says the practi- c'’ farmer, btu what are the facts ? The facts are numerous and incontrovertible. From time to time, we have recorded the most authen- tic statements of the wondertul effect of this pro- cess, and yet how few, comparatively, have adopted it. We remember last year we saw at thefarm of Mr. Jo-eph Sinton, near this city, one ol the finest crops of turnips wi ever be- held, Mr. Sinton r s imated that it would yield him double as much as lie had ever gathered from the same quantity of land before, and this excess he attributed solely to a small subsoil plow that he had used in their cultivation ; and a few davs since vve heard him declare, that if he could not get another, he would not take fifty dollars lor his little implement. Curious Experiments. [From the Tennessee Agriculturist.] Mr. FAr.n: — Having noticed in the last No. of your valuable paper, under the caption, “A Curious Fact for Physiologists,” a statement by Mr. Wattles, in confirmation of some ex- periments that have attracted considerable at- tention in France, and believing that the wiuk in which they are contained is not generally known, I have concluded to send you the fol- lowing extract. It is taken Irorn Becklard’s Pnysiologv. The, learned author observes, that the experiments were made by an eminent physician. Those experiments seem to es- tablish the fact “ cl the difference o! the seed in the right and left testicle and it is one, cer- tainly, that should be generally known, as it will prove of great. utility to breeders of farm stock. Expsrimsnl 1. TTaving baught two castrated boars, one of which lust by castration only the right tesiis, he proposed to convince himself w’hether there was any foundation in the an- cient doctrine about the difference of the seed in the right and left testicle, ble therefore pur- chased a young sc'’, whom he carefully in- closed in ih“ month of August, and after find- ing her pregnant,- he got in December 8 fe- male pigs. Ex:2. In March, the same sow was im- pregnated by the same boar, and delivered in July of eleven female pigs. Ex. 3. H- had three dogs castrated of ilie right testicle, anil enclosed each of them, alter being perfeciiv cured of the operation, with a hitch, and obtained ot the first 8, of the second 7, and of the third 4 female whelps. Ex. 4: He repeated, with two of the above mentioned dogs and bitche'^, the experiment, and. got again ol ihe one five, and of tlie other seven female whelps. Ex 5. He castrated three rabbits of the right testis, and after being cured, shut them up with lemale-s; he then got through the summer, (werv five or six weeks, } oung rabbits all ofthe female kind. Ex. () He deprived two dogs of the left testis, and provided ihem with bitciies carefully inclosed, from one of whom he obtained six, and Horn the other eight male whelns. Ex 7 The same experiment was made with rabbits, whose left testicles weie cut out, and with the same result. Ex 8. He cut out the right tuble and nvaria from several bitches — ot bitches thus castrated onlv two survived, who after being inclosed with a dog whose right testicle had been pre- viously cutout, were imnregnated, and brought forward, the one five and the other seven little bitches. Ex. 9. One of the above bitches- was after- wards locked up with a perfect dog, and she brought only female w'helps. The other was inclosed wiih a dog who was previously de- prived ol the left testicle, but she never became pregnant. The author observes, that “each ofthe above experiments has been many limes repeated, and has never once been known to fail in producing the same res.ilts.” A gentleman of this coun- ty and myself, design soon to make some sim- ilar experiments — and if deemed necessary, you shall be informed of the result. Very respectfully, D. Shelby. Madison Co., Ala , Nov. 1815- Special Notice. We request Postmasters and others who re" mit us money, to adopt the practice of enclos- ing the cash in preference to forwarding the Postmaster’s drafts on the Postmaster in Au- gusta. COUTEL^TS OF THIS HUMBER. ORIGINAL PAPERS. Agricullui'al Papers page 26 Anticipations in Agriculture “ 25 Agiicultural Experiments — neces.sity of care in making “ 28 Clergy and Agiicniture, ihe “ 24 Corn, great yield of “ 27 Cure for Dyspepsia. “ 27 Covv-nlogy— Treatise on Milch Cows. “ 28 Dog Traps “ 26 F.rrmer’s Life, a “ 27 n orses, some remarks on “ 27 Items '• 24 Improving Soil — An Experiment “ 29 McDonald, Alex., letter Irom “ 28 New England I. iberality “ 24 CiangeTree Insect, the. “ 24 Physiology, Ileallh.&c “ 26 Plantation Economy “ 29 Plan'ers’ Club of Hancock— List of Premiums offered “ 30 Special Notice “ 32 Tobacco 24 Wooden Shoes 24 Wine, Domestic Port " 25 SELECTIONS, EXTR.».CTS, &C. Cotton, fine page 21 Candles, hints to makers of “ 20 Fruitaud Fruit Trees. . “ 30 Grape Culture — the Vine Nursery-, preparatory to beginninga Vineyard ; Outline of M Ame- rican Vineyard from its beginning. “ 21 Horses, remedy for cholic in 29 Monthly Calendar, for February. “ 30 Plantation Garden for tlie South “ 21 Plowing, subsoil “ 31 Seeds, planting and vegetating of Garden “ 22 State Agricullnral Society — Grain, report of i he f^ommi I tee on *• 17 Pioak, report of the Committee on 18 Manures, report on... “ 19 “ another report on “ 20 State Agricultural Society of South Carolina. “ 20 Tobacco Culture — mode of cu 1 1 i vati ng in Ma- son county. Ky , and in Cotmecticiit “ 22 NEW YORK AGElSCU£.'rUIS/iL. WASSE MOUSE* fTAVlNG Taken the commodious Store, No. 1 1S7 Water-street, the subscriber is now opening the Largest and most complete assortment of Agricultural Implements of all kind.!, ever yet ofi'ered in this market. Most of t he.se are of new and h igh I y im proved pattern, warrant- ed to be made of the best materials, put’together in Ihe strongest manner, of -a very superior finish, and offer- ed at the lowest cash prices. SEEDS FOR THE FARMER. Such as Improved Winter and Sn'ing Wheat, Rye, r?a rley,» Oats, Corn. Beati.s, Peas, Rutabaga, Turnip, Cabbage, Beet. Carrot, Parsnip, Clover and Gr„ass- seeds, improved varieties of Potatoe.s. WtRE-CLOTKS AND SIEVES. Different kinds and .sizes constantly on hand. FERTILIZERS Peruvian and African Gtiano, Poudretle, Bonedusl, Lime. Plaster of Pans, (fee. FRUIT AND ORNAMENTAL TREES AND SHRUBS. ()i ders taken for these, and executed from a choice of the best Nu ssries, Gardens, and Corservatories in the United Slates. HORSES, CATTLE, SHEEP, SWINE AND POULTRY. Orders executed for slock of all kinds, to the best advantage Tha subscriber requests samples sent to him of any new or i m proved Implements, Seeds, &c., (fee., which, if found valuable, e.xtra pains will be taken to bring them before the public. A. B. ALI.EN, 2 187 Water-street, New York. PROSPECTUS OF THE FOURTH VOLUME OF THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR, A MONTHLY JOURNAL, Devoted to the Improvement of Southern A^ricvltwe, Edited, by JAMILS CAMAK., o£ Athens. In submitting to the Southern Public the Pro- spectus for the Fourth Volume ofthe SOU'^H- KRN CULTIVATOR, which may now be re- garded as permanently established, the Publish- ers deem it unnecessary to advert to the high character the Work has attained under the edito- rial control o! Mr. CAMAK, and therefore make a direct appeal to the Planters and Friends of Agriculture throughout the Southern States, to aid them in sustaining a publication devoted ex- clusively to the cause of Southern Agriculture. The advantages and benefits resulting from Agricultural Periodicals, have been felt and ac knowledged by the intelligent and refleciing Til- lers of the Soil in all civilized nations; to be most useful, therefore, they should be extensive- ly circulated among all classes of Agriculturists; if possible, they should be in the hands of every man who tills an acre of land, and to this end vve invoke the aid of every one wlio feels an in- terest in the improvement of the Agriculture of the South. The first number of the Fourth Volume will be issued on the 1st of January next. It is pub- lished Monthly, in Quarto form ; each number contains sixteen p.tGEs of matter, 9 by 12 inches square. TERMS : One copy, one ye.ar SI. 00 Six copies “ “ 5 00 Twenty- Five copies, one year 20 00 One Hundred “ “ “ 75 00 The Cash System will be rigidly enforced. The CASH irust always accompany the order. J. W. & W. S. JONES. Augusta, Ga., Nov., 1845. As we desire to regulate our issue by the number of subscribers, all persons who obtain subscribers are requested to send the lists as ear- ly as possible to J. W. & W. S. Jones. 'rUSSNEP SEED. A SUPPLY ot the following varieties of fresh Turnep Seed, just received, viz: Yellavv •Sweedish or ruta baga, very fine for stock, Large glohe tnrnep, “ White flat do “ Hanover or white ruta baga do “ Norfolk do For sate in quantities to suit purchase, 1 Wm. Haines, Jr., Broad-st. A MAMMOTH WEEKLY FAMILY NEWSPAPER, FOR TWO DOLLARS A YEAR!! tUcckln (CIjrouide Sentinel, The Largest and Cheapest Family .Newsp.iper in the Southern States, 28 by 46 inches, containing 36 col- nmns. is now pnblished at the low rate of TWO DOL- LARS per annum, in advance. 1 J. W. table J use. VoL. IV. AUGUSTA, GA., MARCH, 1846, No. 3. 1 BY SI. C. M. HAMMOND, Delivered before the Burke County Central Agricultural Society, January i3, 18iG. We have arrived at an era in Agriculture. To the planters in this region, it is one ot ihe deepest intere.stand importance. Certainly not in our time, probably not in that of our fathers, and I am inclined to think, not since the settle- ment of thi-s country, has there been any period so critical to the rvhole agricultural class, and which demanded of them such earnest attention, such mature reflection, and such vigorous exer tion. From the time that our vast forests resounded with the axe of the settler, great staple produc- tions have been introduced, one after another, and each has poured its golden tribute into the lap ot Industry. R,ur children, would in- sure their starvation; we must iherelore turn our attention to scientific and useful books; we must s'rive to know all that the collected experience ol the world, from the earliest ages, can inform us, of what has been done and can be done again ; we must take agricultural pa- pers and learn what the practical men all over the country, having in view the same great ob- jects as ourselves, have done, and are now do- ing ; and having in waruly digested these things, we must exercise our best judgment in appro- priating the results to our own use. We must try carefully and thoroughly every experiment from which we have any reasonable hope of advantage. Ninety-nine of them may utterly fail us, yet the hundredth may remunerate all our trouble, and fi.x our fortunes on a sure and enduring foundation. The Chinese, who have carried agriculture to its greatest perfec- tion, did indeed arrive at all their knowledge by the slow process of experiment, unaided by sci- entific principles. How much more rapid shauld be our progress and more sure our suc- cess, blessed as we are, with the incalculable benefit ot acquaintance with the physical sci ences and especially with the grand revelations of modern chemistry. In reclaiming lands we must make the best use of the resoitrces which nature offers us, and has deposited most conveniently frr our purpose. With manure made in our stables, cow and hog pens, all of us are familiar. I propose to suggest the means of greatly increas- ing and judiciously using them. The most extensively employed in other countries and the most valuable of all materials for improving land, is lime. For ages past it has been regarded as the “ basis of all good hus- bandry.” It is an essential element of a good soil. Spread upon the land, its mechanical ef- fects, at least they are yet regarded as mechani- cal, are to loosen and make porous stiff soils and give adhesiveness to sandy ores, and it gives valuable aid in restoring “galls” and prevent- ing washes. Applied in its caustic state, it combines with free acids, which check decay and converts them sometimes into fertilizing substances, as in the formation ol gypsum. It has an important solvent action upon certain inorganic compounds, and largely absorbs car- bonic acid from the atmosphere, which it gives up to the rootstd plants, and is thus highly be- neficial even when applied to calcareous soils. But its greatest advantage is in hastening the decomposition of vegetable matter, such as weeds, mots, &c., uniting with their elements, rendering them soluble in water, and yielding them, when required, to growing plants. In this respect, it is the best of all materials for re- ducing our compost heaps; yet as it expels am- monia, the Promethean spark of putrescent manures, care must be taken to cover the heaps with absorbents, in order to arrest the gases as they are evolved. Lime is burnt near the mouth of Briar Creek, and was sold last year at 12 cents a bushel. . On account of its destructive action on the texture of plants, when applied to the growing crop, it has been superseded, when convenient, by the use of marl, Protessor Johnston asserts, “ that a larger surface ol the cropped land ol Europe, is improved by calcareous marls, than by the aid of lime and farm yard manure put together.” Though producing, with pure lime, uUimately, the same general effects upon the soil, it has the advantages of acting beneficially at all periods, of supplying carbonic acid, the grand principle of nutriment, and of sometimes adding to land animal and saline matters of great value. And while promoting temporary fertility, this substance, caustic or as a carbo- nate, has a tendency likewise, with the addition of vegetable materials, to give durable and in- creasing strength i 'the soil by awakening with the earthy compounds a beautiful play ol che- mical affinities. Marl has been found in va- rious parts of this county, and if diligently sought, I have little doubt, may be discovered within the reach of all who desire its aid. Un- certain experiment need not be apprehended, as its value has been amply tested in Virginia and in Carolina. The quantity to be applied de- pends altogether on the strength of the land, lor which rules may be easily formed. For specific purposes, plaster or gypsum has been applied with great effect in other countries and in our own. The increased luxuriance of vegetation which it produces everywhere, de- monstrates clearly its tertilizing influence. It is a disinfector, and thrown over our manure piles, absorbs the gases which arise from fer- mentation injurious to Health, and concentrates and preserves them for the legitimate purpose of enriching the ground. It has a peculiar af- finity for ammonia, the gas encountered in our stables and known by its pungent and offensive smell. Scattered in these nauseous places, it renders them as sweet and the ait as pure as in our parlors, while it fixes and saves to us this ammonia, ihe vital essence of manure. Thus is the health ol our negroes and work animals essentially promoted, by the very means which improves so materially the quality of our ma- nure. Plaster is not found among us that I know of, but it can be procured at the North on reasonable terms. After plaster, peat is proba- bly most uselul in our stables and pens. Though flora disinfector, it absorbs largely and combines with ammonia. It has been applied to .soils in the different forms ol ashes, compost, and in its natural state, and where a deficiency of vegetable matter exists, is highly serviceable in all. But it is preferable to us as ia compost, as it is .scarcely abundant enough to supply the desired quantity of ashes, and requires a long period for decay in its natural condition. Swamp mud or muck, when well dried, is in many re- spects superior to peat, as it is more finely di- vided, more soluble, contains a larger propor- tion of earthy sails, and absorbs equally as well. We possess rich mines of this material, which it becomes us to work as early as practicable. It should be dug out and piled to dry at least six months before it is used for any purpose. Red clay has an affinity for ammonia, and diiecl, absorbs remarkably, while in its burnt state or reduced to ashes, which is done on a grand scale in other countries, it resembles lime in its mechanical effects, and supplies va- rious salts essential to vegetation, and which are rendered soluble by the burning. Leaves and straw, in proportion to their weight, lurnish a large amount ot alkaline salts, and absorb freely the liquids of the farm yard. I’hey are abundant about us and in general use. Corn- stalks are not only excellent absorbents for our heaps, but, containing a large proportion of sil- icate ol potash, an essential manure, should be carefully preserved. Marl, in addition lo its other advantages, is likewise an e.xcellent ma- terial for our compost heaps and stables; when it begins to operate it stimulates powerfully tlie process of (iecomposilion, and also absorbsno.x- ious gases, since experience proves, that it ren- ders stables more healthy for animals. In some parts of this county Bommer’s pa- tent system of making manure has been adopt- ed with eminent success. This method should not have been patented, and it is not certain that the patent is valid. The plan was s} steril- ized by Jauffret in France, but has been more or less practiced in all ages and countries. It is simply a mode of composting, a little more expensive and laborious than those in common use, by which the raw material is much more rapidly carried through the process of fermen- tation. There is no magic about it, but still it merits attention, and perhaps is worth the re- duced price now asked for it. On small plan- tations it can certainly be employed with great effect, and possibly on large ones. Yet, as time and labor cannot always be conveniently spared to collect at once the large quaniiiy of materials required — without counting the mo- ney cost of some ol them — while our ordinary compost heaps may be built up by gradual ad- ditions during the year; it is a question, whe- ther we could not excite fermeniaiion sufficient- ly by pouring into the heaps the liquids of the yard and stable, p.ixed with marl or plaster, and loosening the piles to admit the air, at the same time render the manure good enough for all practical purposes. But il we are at length ronvinced, and the time.s oughtat least to have induced this conviciion, that it is cheaper to raise our own rneai than to bring it across the mountains, and have fully resolved to make the trial, our hog and other pens will supply the most considerable portion of our manure, and of the most valuable kinds that are known. From this source we have heretofore derived little or no benefit. The tew hogs reared among us, with some excep- tions, are usually turned into a scanty range, with scarce lood enough to preserve life, until shortly before killing. They are then allowed the run of pea fields, olten picked over, and an increased supply of corn to give as'reakof fat. Excepting the straw for bedding, which ab- sorbs something by accident, no manure what- ever is co’lecied. And under such treatuicnt a hog rarely weighs 150 lbs. at a year old. The plan should be changed; we should pen all our hogs and feed them regularly the year round. This course has been adopted successfully at the North and partially practiced with profit by certain planters in boih our adjoining States. Thus enclosed and attended, hogs have been knowr. to exceed 500 lbs. at a year old, and to increase for short periods as rapidly as 3 lbs. per day, w'hile each hog, when amply supplied with straw, peat, rotten w’ood or charcoal and other raw materials, has manufactured in the year as much as two cords or over 200 bushels of excellent manure. Thus, the manure alone would pay for the leeding, and the increase ol flesh over the ordinary accumuldlion Irom the means I have described, would be nett gain. Taken from our range, hogs will consume more in fattening too, than they w'ould under judi- cious treatment in pens, during the whole year; and by enclosing they w’ould be kepi out oi mischief to ourselves and cui neighbors, would multiply more rapidly, occupy less time in at- tending to them, and be less liable to be stolen or destroyed by wild animals. From the heat of our summers and the liability to mange and lice, our pens should not be loo confined, and free access should be had to running or liesh waier. Houses are built for hogs at the North, where they ar*e removed from their element and pairqaered in the second and sometimes even as high as the third story from the ground. We may not obtain immediately such results here as at the North, though an approximation to them has been made recently in Alabama ; yet, with a good choice of breeds — among w hich I should by no means recommend the Berkshire — an abundant growth ot turnips, artichokes, peas, potatoes and corn, and with our mild w in- ters, there is no reason why we should not sur- pass them. By enclosing likewise our cattle, even great- er advantages would result to us. After pro- viding our negroes amplj' wdlh milk, the in- crease ot meat and butter w ould repay the tron- ble and expense incurred, while vast quantities of manure wmuld be collected nearly equal in qualiiy lo that from our stables. A grand benefit ihat would accrue from the enclosing all our stock, if universally practised among us, w'ould be the ability to dispense al- logether w’iih fencing, except for these enclo- sure^. Few' taxes are heavier than keeping up ihe infinite line ot lences and cross-fences, not only upon our lime and labor, hut also or, our lore-ts, w hich w ill soon be cemsumed wiihout a change ol system. It has been esiimaied by an enlightened planier of South Carolina, that there are at least 100,000 miles of rail fence in that Slate, requiring 8 or 0,000 rails j-er mile, valued at S50, which gives loi the value l i all their tences, t' e enormous amount ol five mil- lions ol dollars! And ihe Slate interest being 7 per cent., and the annual decay ol such fences being 13 per cent., or their duration only seven years, the annual interest on the sum thus invested, is 20 per cent., or one million ol dol- lars. The calculation for this Stale would be ' ^1 Uirill TT THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 35 much larger. AnJ our proportion of this im- mense outlay of capital is incurred solely to allow our stock the benefit of a proverbially poor range. Tne amount thus invested in len- ces equals perhaps the *’ull value of our stock; and it the labor of splitting rails and repairing fences were withdrawn and applied to lue crop, it would increase it sulticiently to purchase the larger part of the meat for the entire plantation consumption, while, it the necessity of keeping up extensive fences no longer existed, we might dispense wdth our immense reservations of lands lying idle, otherwise than to supply tim- ber tor rails. In addition to the above sources of manure, I must not fail to allude to night-soil as the most valuable of them all, and which might be more readily collected and applied to use by planters than is generally supposed. It is nearly as good as guano, without costing as that article does the transportation of 5,000 miles. Prejudice, 1 kfjow, will preclude its general use among us for a while, bat when we fairly begin the scheme of manuring, and acquire, as we cer- tainly will do, a sort of enthusiasm in the ac- oumiiiation and preservation ot all lertilizers, learn that this one is universally save.! and ^^lied with the greatest results, in the best agricultural countries, I am sure that it will be as carefully kept, and be far more highly ap- preciated than stable manure is now. But besides manuring, other means must be employed in order to loosen and lighten up the soil on our level lands, packed down by tillage and the tread of man and beast for a series of years. Marl or lime will answer this purpose on the surface, but to stir it to a proper depth we must resort to the subsoil plow. This plow, counted, the great discovery of modern agricul- ture, was invented in England many years ago, but revived in Scotland recently, to serve The double purpose of loosening stiff soils from 12 t'> 20 inches deep, and to drain off their surlace, which in this kind of land, especially in cold climates, retains too much moisture, its suc- cess has been complete, both there and at the JNTorth, and in some instances a double and even triple yield, has followed a single application. We have a good deal of clay land, damp and consequently sour, cold, and comparatively un- productive, and this is the implement required to drain it. All lands, those the most worn es- pecially, would be vastly benefitled by the use of this plow. From what I have observed, I am inclined to think our lightest sandy soils would amply repay its use. If there are any on which it will fail in the long run, they are per- haps only the most compact and the finest pipe clay, which would run together again at the first heavy rain. By making it porousand light, we would permit air and heat to penetrate and warm and fertilize the land, while the loosened soil would enable the roots to extend wider and deeper in search of nutriment. The subsoil, iso, as asserted by high authority, contains an inexhaustible quan ity of earthy salts, used by plants, locked in the embrace of chemical affi- nity, which would be realized by exposure to the pulverizing and decomposing action of the ele- ments. An application of manure to these soils afterwards, and judicious treatment siibsequent- ■ ly, would insure and prolong their restoration. On our rolling land, looking f ideous w'iih its deformities of naked ridges and gullies, the lat- ; ter of which have carried away so much fer- I tilityand threaten to extend tar into the plains, ( we must resort to hill-side ditchine. It has ^ been practiced in the up-country with decided t advantage, and at whatever cost, rules should be procured for its use here before our broken t lands are utterly destroyed. Common sense I has governed some in the invention of a suc- cessful method, but if we lack energy to think ' for ourselves, or patience to experiment until ' crowned with success, let a special committee ' be named to examine and report, or a premium ' be offered lor an essay on the test plan of ope- ration. I We have extensive swamps and count'ess ponds in our county, most of them vastly rich. The period has arrived w'hen our attention should be seriously directed to their drainage. For the most part this may be done with ease, the fall and outlets being abundantly sufficient; the commonest levelling instrument will an- sw-er to regulate our operation.s, and with som- instrucliou, our slaves will ditch faster than w'hite men, which w'ill greatly diminish the e.x- pense to us. Instead of requiring manure, these swamp soils coul 1 furnish a large amount of peal and mud for our poorer land, and retain afterwards a thickness of vexeiable matter which agesof proper culture could not exhaust. They are equal, large portions ot them, to the best lands of Louisiana and Texas, and their yield on ihe second year’s cahivation would re- pay all the labor ot draining and clearing. [concluded in cur next.] iiittie Tilings. From the North Carolina Farmer. Mr. Editor; In travelling through N. C., I am frequently amused at such expressions as — “ Mr. A. is one of ourgreatest farmers; he owns 1000 acres of good farm land, and runs 20 plow's.” Now go around Mr. A.’s fence, look at his farm ; you w'ould say instantly that an in- telligent man had nothing to do with that farm. The fence is out of repair — the Ian I about half plowed — the stock in bad order, the corn un- even, the plows good tor nothing, the horses poor and galded— bushes growing on the ditch bank, in the middle of the field and all about the fence — the negroes are ragged and filthy — the master going like a madman all over the prem- ises, complaining of the diso'^der here, there and every where. And now, w'hat is the matter? All the difficulties grow out of the want of a lit- tle more contrivance in “ Master’s head.” He wants to cultivate too much land tor his force ; wants the Iffnd to improve itself without his trouble; is mad w'iih the hogs because they won’t fatten with less food; and nothing goes right. Now, the difficulty lies here; Mr. A. thinks that good farming consi>ts in the number of plow’s a man has, the number of horses, hands, stock, &c. He never once thought about attending to liUle 1hins,s. This is the cry- ing sin ot farmers generally. A w'ant of s)'s- tem, and attention to the smaller circumstances of the farm. They forget that the great Archi- tect of the world has made himself as great in minuteness as in magnitude, since the legs of a fly have been fitted up with all the perfection of an air-pump, and this too, done by that hand that formed those vast globes of light that float in w’ide fields of immeasurable space. A friend called on M ichael Angelo, who was finishing a statue; some time afterwards he called again; the sculptor was still at his w’ork; looking at the figure, his friend exclaimed. “Have you been idlesince I saw' you last?” “Byno means,” replied Angelo, “I have retouched this part and polished that; I have softened this feature and broughtout that muscle; 1 havegiven more ex- pression to this lip, and more energy to that limb.” “Well, weil,” said his friend, “all these are trifles.” It may b- so’’ replied An- gelo, ’’but recollect irijl.es make yerfection. and that per feet ion is no trijle.” Let farmers think of that. How much happier our farmers would be to restrict their labours to a smaller space, and bringihatspace to perfection. There w’ould be much pleasure in looking at the scene — more real profit in the end — and less aggravation in attending to the labourers. Then, let no farmer think it a trifle to have all the woeds carefully wed from about the yard, and thrown into the hog-pen— have the milch cows curry-combed, the horses well rubbed, the ditch banks trimmed down, the clearings of the ditches hauled into the lot for manure, shrubs cut from about the fences, pig pens daily supplied with trash for manure, all the ashes carefully saved, soap-suds all poured on the manure pile, manure piles kept shaded as much as possible, see that the menure is spread the minute it is carried into the field, &c. &c.; always remembering, “that, trifles make perfection, and that perfection is no Lrijle." Bladen County, N. C. By the IVay. From the American Farmer. To the Young Farmers of Maryland, ou Practical Agriculture. Six teeth out of my threshing machine, and the consequent delay in my operations, enables me to devote a few moments to a subject, on which I have long contemplated addressingyou, but until the present, prevented by various caus- es—that of PraclicoA Farming — more especial- ly as applying to young Maryland Farmers, like myself on old lands. The recent chattge in the form of our venera- ble and useful agricultural journal, keeping pace as it does, with the “lights” as they are discovered beaming above the mists of by-gone ignorance, has suggested the spirit of these pa- pers; or, if you w'ill dignify them with the term, essays — and it is my special aim, so far as consistent with fact, to avoid all the techno- logy of pedantry ; the ‘schools,’ and the meta- physical theorist. Succeeding the management of an old estate, at a period when mercantile pursuits presented more pecuniary attraction than agricultural, my first experiment in the latter, was to let my farm on shares, by the advice of my friends, to a working man ; the consequence was, that at the end of two years, I was heartily glad to rid my- self of a vampyre, who exhausted w'hat little ‘blood’ there was left in the old ‘turnip’— his last boast on quitting m.“, being that '■hehad skinned my place in two years,’ and thought by rushing ii, (a favorite phrase of his,) to be able to ilo the same, where he w'as going. Hence, you can readily imagine theccndiiion in w-hich I found matters, on assuming sw'ay in person. My first efforts at restoration were, to repair and have made several hundred pannels of out- fencing ; discarding entirely, and using the ma- terials on it, all innerorcross lines, save a good sized, paled barn-yard ; a five rail feeding and milking yard, and a poultry yard- designingto pursue the soiling and excise system, and study the economy of manure, ot w hich, more anon. Ot course the eyes of all our old neighbor- hood w’ere upon me, and their aged wives spoke wonderously wise as to what ‘I would not do,’ not what I would — ‘to make a living off that old place.’ ‘Your meadows have all run out,' quoth one; ‘you’ll have to spend many a dollar to repair your houses,’ quotha — and so on, un- til at last, had I not at least possessed the nega- tive merit of obstinacy, I should have beaten any plowshare into a sword, and taken the road to Texas for a livelihood! ‘ It’s a pity,’ said a person who was burning blue lime, ‘you do not lime that bare-looking field- why, it w’on’traise interest whatever in this more than in any other good implement; that I spoke as highly of this plow belore I eversaw or knew anything of the makers, as 1 can possibly do now; and that I speak of it again merely be- cause it has stood the lest of two years’ constant use, and has been in nothing found wanting; and because I would persuade my neighbors to reap the advantage from the use of an excellent implement, that I have done. The results of the trials, held there, have been that no other plow offered could, in any thing, compete successfully with the plows made by Ruggles & Co. There were many excellent ones exhibited at different Fairs in the North, this fall, none of which were offered there for trial — though inducements were held out to the makers to send them, and we were assured that at the trial which we hope to see take place early this next spring, in Washington, a great major- ity ol the best Northern plows will be forth- coming. Ruggles & Co. have exhibited so of- ten, and that successfully, that they now gener- ally decline competing for the premiums offer- ed; but where exhibited, this season, they re- tained their deserved position. At the State Fair at Utica, New York, they were exhibited, but much to our regret did not comnete at the trials. Nor did Prouty’s Centre Draft. Of those we saw at work, one marked “ J. B. Gay- lord, Auburn, No. 5,” made by Comstock & Brainard, was decidedly the best. All of their make were capital plows, as was also one marked “Wilson.” The trial, however, was in sod land only — by no means a fair test, as a different implement is needed for that, and lor stubble and light mellow land. For stubble there was an excellent plow on the ground; large, light, and effective — the only objection being its cost, the mould-board being a plate of steel — it would suit our soil just as well it of cast iron. We regret having lost the address of the maker. Those trials, at the time of a great gathering of this kind, when no one is willing to give their attention to one object for any length ol time; and when different kinds and conditions of soil cannot readily be had, must necessarily be partial and defective. Having a strong desire to visit a lar,ge facto- ry of agricultural implements, and having but one day to spare, we determined to devote it to that of Messrs. Ruggles & Co., at Worcester, Mass, A day more fraught with pleasure and profit we have rarely spent. Half a dozen columns would scarce afford space enough to tell of all the wonders we saw — the pattern-making, casting, polishing and fit- ting the castings; the limbers all sawed out, planed, dressed, turned, bored, morticed, etc., by machinery ; the apparatus for stocking or fitting each plow together, so that all are perfectly alike; the extraordinary rapidity and complete- ness with which the whole was done; and the careful economising of labor in every depart- ment— all was one succession of surprises. — The machinery is driven principally by water- power, assisted, when needful, by a powerful steam engine. The timber used seemed parti- cularly fine — all choice and carefully selected; and when any piece, in the working up, proves to be defective, it is at once thrown aside. The metal is so superior that an inch and a quarter cast bar, submitted to us, required repeated blows from a heavy sledge hammer to break it ! The surface of each casting, where exposed to wear, is chilled, by which, for about one-sixteenth of an inch of its depth, it is-rendered excessive- ly hard. The timber is all worked up by ma- chines—the morticing, cutting tenons, etc., is all, of course, perfectly exact; no bungling, no loose fitting, and irregularity or difference in the running of any of the plows. Ni merous other implements are made here — cutiingboxes, plant- ing machines, cultivator.s, harrows, etc., and all put together, apparently, with like care. All connected with the concern are ingenious, prac- tical men, ready to hear, weigh and act upon any suggestion for the improvement of the im- plements they now make, or that will adapt them to any particular region of country, and for making altogether new ones. We left them engaged in preparing sundry new patterns, to lessen the weight of metal in those plows in- tended for the light lands of the South, without lessening the work done by the plow; and this especially in the breaking plows of that size found to suit us best, and in their side-hill plows ; also, getting out patterns for new cultivator teeth, on a plan suggested by us; a trench plow and some other implements. T. A. Hay and Fodder Crops. Fiom ttie New Orleans Commercial Times. Hay is now quoted in New Orleans at S26 per ton. In the river towns above, it is still higher. The hav crops in the North and West were very light this past season; so light were they, in man\ places, that distress amongst the stock must have ensued, had not their agricultural journals pointed ouc to the farineri the means of remedying the evil— by sowing corn and oats mixed; drilling corn alone, so thickly as to cov- er the ground; sowing millet, and other fodder crops ; and by cutting up all the fodder they feed out, by running it through a cutting box. Until the next year’s crop comes in, hay will continue to rise in our markets. W e can do much to regulate the price, by do- ing as ourNorlhern neighbors have done — sow- ing oats, millet, etc. It is the extreme of lolly in any planter to buy hay, or even corn. Ber- muda grass will cut double the weight of hay to the acre that any grass in the North or West will. Crab-grass makes excellent hay, and a great deal of it; and a good crop can be had af- ter cutting a crop of oats or millet. Even bit- ter coco makes good hay. In no part of the world do oats succeed better than in Mississip- pi; the Egyptian (winter) oats, when sowed in Beptember, afford capital grazing all winter, and will yield, if »he ground is suitable, and they have been well put in, forty to sixty bush- els per acre of oats, weighing thirty-eight to forty-two pounds per bushel. Millet is an ex- cellent fodder crop. t. a. THE SOUTHERN CULTIVAl'OR. ®i)e 0outi)cni CultiDatou AUGUSTA; GA. IV., NO. 3 MAI2CM, 1846. P3= We have received articles for ihe Cultivator as follows ; From Mr. Seaborn, on Subsoil Plowing, &c. From Mr. Baker, Recording Secretary of the Liber- ty County Agricultural Society, an account of the pro ceedings of the Society on 1st January last, and an Agricultural Address delivered on that occasion by Dr. J. P. Stevens. From “Pedro,” en Hopkins’ Allen Plow. These all came to hand too late for this number of the Cultivator, but shall have due attention in the next. The Southern Cultivator. The publishers of this work, without desiring to obtrude upon its friends, deem it due to themselves, no less than to all those wholeelan interest in the success of the paper, to state that, thus far, the patronage extended to it, is wholly inadequate to its support— not sufficient to pay the actual expenses of publication ! The publishers have no appeals to make to any; they have entered upon a contract, which they intend to, and fulfil to the letter, by the publication of the 4th volume. That done, their contract ceases, and will not certainly be renewed unless a very different feeling be ex- hibited in behalf of the work by those to whose interests and prosperity it is devoted. Papers that exchange with the “Southern Cultivator” are requested to give the above notice an insertion, and accompany it with such comments as they deem proper. Efficient Support. The Albany Cultivator for February boasts of having received niree thousand subscribers in the month of January ; being one thousand more than were received in January, 1845. There subscribers go in by companies of twenties, fif- ties and hundreds. To those engaged in trying to elevate the character of the great profession by which the human race live, such treatment is very cheering. We would be greatly pleased to see a like spirit prevail here, among Southern planters. Then we would have the satisfaction of being able to make the Southern Cultivator w’hat we wish it to be, both in appearance and in the quality and quantity of matter wherewith it is filled. Cow-ology. In the February No. of the Farmer’s Library, we have Chap. I, and part of Chap. II, of Mens. Guenon’s “Treatise on Milch Cows.” We regret that we cannot copy in the Cultivator any part of this Treatise, because the copy-riaht has been secured to Messrs. Greeley & McEl- RATH, proprietors of the Farmer’s Library. The preface, .vhich was inserted in the last No. of the Cultivator, will give the reader a very dis- tinct idea of the character and object of Mens. Guenon’s book. Those who want to know more about his discovery must go to the Farmer’s Li- brary for information. Potatoes aiul Ground Nuts. A carrespondent writes to us as follows; — “I would be glad if you would inform me through the columns of the Cultivator, of the best manner and time of planting Irish Potatoes, Sweet Potatoes and Ground Nuts, together with the culture of them.” If the time were not so near at hind when these crops, to succeed well, ought to be in the ground, we would request some of our corres- pondents to give the information wanted. As it is, we must undertake to do what, we doubt not, might be far better done by others, that is, to comply with the above stated request. IRISH POTATOES. Our own practice, which has been very suc- cessful, is to prepare the ground well by stirring it very deep — new ground is by far the best— to make the rows three feet apart — the trenches 9 inches deep — the manure three inches deep in the bottom of the trenches: — the manure must be perfectly well rotted, otherwise the quality of the potatofi is exceedingly injured. Coarse, un- fermented stable manure, hogs’ hair and such like is otten used, and the result is waxy pota- toes of very bad flaior, in some instances, even disgu-ting; and, ivehave no doubt, unwholesome as they are disgusting. If we would have the Irish Potatoe in perfection, too much care can- not be bestowed on the food that is prepared for its sustenance. For seed we select large pota- toes without knobs on them, cut them into pie- ces with one or two eyes at most ; put these in the trench on the manure, nine inches apart, and fill the trench with rotten leaves from the woods, or rotten wood, or chip manure, which is better still. Plant from middle of February to middle of March, according as the weather may be. When the stalks are about 9 or 10 inches high, the whole surface of the ground is covered with wet leaves from the forest, up even with the top of the plant, packing the leaves close around the stem, and taking c.ire leave the top uncovered. Nothing more is necessary ex- cept to puli off all the blossoms as they appear. To ensure good crops of good mealy potatoes, according to our expeiience, too much care can- not be bestowed on the following particulars: 1. The selection of kinds to be planted. We prefer the Mercers for an early, and the Blueno- ses for a late crop. 2. The kind of ground they are to be planted in, the preparation of it, and the kind of manure used. Nothing mors readily takes a tincture from coarse, filthy, unferraented manure. Even chip manure is improved foi the use of the pota- toe, by being mixed pretty liberally with the car- bonate of lime. 3. The moisturo of the ground. — Hence in part the excellence of the potatoe in Ireland and Nova Scotia. In our hot, dry climate, by cover- ing the ground with leaves the same end is at- tained in some degree. This is a brief account of our practice. Others have their own plans which tbev prefer. Mr. McCoy, of Pendleton county, Virginia, makes 800 bushels to the acre in favorable seasons. He prefers a soil composed of sand and clay in about equal proportions, resting on a clay sub- soil, “ On such a piece of land, which h.as been in grass for a few years, I haul out (to use his own vvords as we find them on page 59, Februa- ry No. of Albany Cultivator.) in February or March, six four-horse loads of good stable ma- nure to the acre, (about 60 bushels to the load.) The manure is immediately spread and turned under ay inverting the sod to the depth of ten inches at least. About the last of April spread on the inverted sod about three additional wagon loads of manure to the acre. Harrow the ground well lengthwise with the furrow. Cross-plow to the depth of four or five inches and harrow again. By this time the last manure applied is well mix- ed with the soil, and the laud is .in a fine state of tilth. The first of May mark out the ground in rows three feet apart each way with a large two-horse nlow, to run as deep as the first plow- ing. A good plan is also to let thebull-tongue plow follow in the furrows after the barshear plow. This breaks up and loosens the subsoil under the rows. A subsoil plow would, I sup pose, do the work belter, but we have none, and the bull tongue answers very well, as it loosens the soil and does not throw it up. We plant the ‘ long reefs,’ using large potatoes for seed, cut into pieces, with about four eyes each, and put four pieces in a hill, which takes about 20 bushels of seed to the acre. The seed is thus planted deep on a loose mellow bed, and the ground after plant- ing has a perfectly level appearance. The after culture is quite easy andsimple. As soon as the plants are two inches above the ground, plow w’ith abull-tongae, as near to the hills as possi- ble; if most of the plants are covered up, so much the better. In two or three weeks plow again both ways ; by this cross-plowing the earth is well loosened, and thrown up around the hills in a sort of hollow square, a little de- pressed in the centre, presenting a broad surface to receive the rains, and convey the moisture to the roots of the plants. The hoe is used to de- stroy such weeds as have escaped the plow, and to give the hills the proper form. Care is taken not to make those conical shaped hills, which used to be the fashion, so adm.irably calculated to carry off all moisture from the roots of the plants. * * * * I have nevtri' tried planting in drills, and prefer hills on account of cross- plowing, which I consider very important. I know that 800 bushels per acre can be raised by myp'an, fori have done it three years in suc- cession, in 1842, ’3 and ’4.” Next, we have in the Southern Planter for February, a statement of Dr. Camm, of York county. La., of a “ new mode of planting Irish Potatoes,” which he has tried and prefers to all others. The novelty of his mode consists in the use of a hot bed to start the shoots, and then taking the shoots off and setting them out in ground properly prepared, just as sweet potatoe vines are set out. He says he has tested it for three years, and last year set out his whole crop in this way, and had six crops to succeed well, all of which were drawn from the same bed. It is very easy to try this new mode. We intend to try it carefully, and hope others will do so too, and report the result. SWEET POTATOES. This crop, according to our expeiience, re- quires light, sandy soil, a long, warm summer, and plenty of rain in July, August and Septem- THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 41 ber. We prefer the Yam and the Red Bermuda to all other kinds; and to make a large crop we arrange so as to have the vines ready to set out immediately after the full moon in April — all danger of frost being then usually past. To do this, use is made of the hot bed, or forcing frame. Our frames were made according to the directions given on pages 10 and 11 of McMahon’s Ameri- can Gardener’s Calendar, and are managed as directed at page 12 to 20 of the same book. The potatoes are put in the hot bed about the first of Alarch, and by the middle of April, even in the latitude of Athens, we often have vines two feet long. The ground to which they are trans- planted is made rich with well rotted manure, and plowed very deep. We prefei^^ a deep sandy soil, in which there is plenty of vegetable mat- ter in a state of decay. Ridges are made three feet apart, not more than six or eight inches high, so arranged as to run horizontally, and thus hold all the rain that may fall. As soon as all danger of frost is past, the vines are drawn from the potatoes in the hot bed, and planted in the ridges about a foot apart. By putting about a pint of water in the hole in the ridge opened to receive the vine, they will grow right off ; so that if water can be had conveniently there is no need of waiting for a season, as they say. Indeed, we have found vines set out in this way, in a very dry time, and under a hot sun, grow better than those set out as they usually are. Then as to cultivation : about the time the vines begin to spread rapidly, and if possible when the ground is wet, we fill in between the ridges with leaves from the woods. This is all the labor expended in cultivation except to pull out any grass or weeds that may spring up on the top of the ridges, the leaves effectually pre- venting any such growih betw'een the ridges. We are perfectly aware that the use of forcing frames is altogether unnecessary in all the coun- try below the last falls of the rivers in South Ca- rolina, Georgia and Alabama ; and even in the district of countiy immediately above that, on large plantations, it might not be profitable to use them. In such situations, the common hot-bed without glass may answer all purposes. But in the range of country in w’hich Athens is situated and in all the country above that, inhabited as it is, more by farmers than by planters, and in which good potatoes are so seldom seen, we are confident the introduction of forcing frames w^culd be attended with great benefit. Such, at least, is the result of our own experience. But in every situation, below the falls, as well as above, we are quite sure that the planting in ridges running horizontally, so as to retain all the rain that falls, and the filling in between the ridges with leaves, will be found to be a very important improvement on the old plan of plant- ing in hills, which we must think is the very worst plan that could be adopted. In vol. 1, page 33 of the Southern Cultivator, a plan is described by Mr. McKinley, of Ogle- thorpe, by which the Sweet Potatoe is cultiva- ted in level ground — that is, without making ei- ther hills or ridges. The reader is respectfully referred to the article itself for full information on the subject, with the single remark that the plan is well w’orthy of a careful trial by every- one who is in search of new revelations on the subject of Agriculture. GROUAD KUTS. Though the cultivation of this article is con- nected with our earliest recollections of field la- bor, yet we must depend on some of our corres- pondents to supply the information wanted. Useful Measures. We publish the article of “ Pedro” cheerfully, but must be permitted to ask him for the author- ity on which he relies to make the bushel contain 2160 cubic inches. Since our attention has been directed to this subject of measures of capacity, we have been very much surprised to find that so great a want of uniformity prevailed, a short time ago, even in the Custom houses of the U. States. We are aware that the government has been engaged in furnishing correct standards of weights, and measures of capacity, and of length : and so far as weights are concerned, we believe standards have been made and distributed. But as to the measures of capacity we know not what pro- gress has been made. Those who are engaged in Agriculture have a very deep interest in this matter. The following tvas the size of the bushel, at the Custom-houses named, in 1832, as is shown by the investigation directed by a former Presi- dent, John Q,. Adams. We find the document in Mr. Hassler’s report to the Secretary of the Treasury, in 1832. Custom house. Bu’lCitbin Baih, Maine 1925 Porlsnioulh, N H.. 2153.74 Boston, Mass 2211.6 Providence, R I. . . .2194.5 New London, Con. 2223. 06 N ew Yo r It 2152.36 Philadelphia 21S6.2 Wilmington, Del . .2192.2 | These are the principal Custom-houses in the list made out by Mr. Adam’s direction. Besides these, there are many others in the list, inwdrich there are still wider discrepancies. At Plymouth, N. C., for example, the bushel is made to contain 2358 53 cu’fic inches, and it is remarkable that in the w'hole list Baltimore is the only place where the bushel was, at the date of the report, of the right size, \iz : 2150.42 cubic inches. Ornamental Trees. Would it not be well for those who take an interest in planting Shade Trees about their houses, to introduce something more of variety in their selections'? We get tired of seeing the never-ending China Tree. It is a handsome tree enough, but we have entirely too much of it. If we go into our own forests we may find in the red maple, elm, beech, sweet gum, black gum, sugar maple and poplar, abundant means of giving variety to our ornamental plantations. Add to these a few foreign sorts, as theailanthus, sterculia,- pau’ownia, abele, silver-leaf maple — and, above all, the Linden— and intersperse the whole liberally with our native Holly, and we might have something worth looking at. A.s to the Linden, read the follotving extract: The Linden Tree. — Few trees connected with rural economy, are of more value than the Lin- den. In some countries, and especially in Rus- sia, scarcely a village or hamlet can be found where it cannot be seen. The w’ood of the Lin- den is valuable and much sought aftei by cabinet m.akers, by whom it is w-rought into furniture of various descriptions. It also furnishes a most eligible material for other artificers, particularly the carver and the turner, by whose skill it is made to assume the form of a variety of domes- tic utensils. From the inner bark of the linden, cords and matting are manufactured. Its blos- soms, which e.xhalc a most aromatic peifume. Custom house. Bu i Cub in. Baltimore, Md 2150.42 Washington City. .21 17.20 Richmond, Va 2112.6 Camden, N C 215-2.2 Charleston, S C. .. .2172.03 Savannah, Ga 20L3.32 New Orleans 2162.02 are available to the apiarian as a pasture for his bees, and to the botanical practitioner as a tisane for the invalid. The particular hue, fine aromatic odor, and delicious flavor of the honey of Cir- cassia, derives its valuable characteristics from these blossoms. The small limbs, and tender shoots, gathered with their foliage and mixed with ground corn or other nutritive grains, are fed to stock during winter, and are reputed valu- able. Sumacli. Has any ©ne south of Virginia turned his at- tention to the culture of Sumach'? The extent of the crop in Virginia last year is stated to hay,e been about 10,000 bags, equal to 700 tons, and nearly one-twentieth of the whole consumption of the United States. Why cannot something be done in growing this article in South Carolina, Georgia, and es- pecially in Florida'? Vfe believe it is a Jaw of nature that plants containing gallic acid require warm climates to bring them to the highest state of perfection. Sumach raised in Virginia, it is ?tated, has been used in place of the Sicilian. If this be so, the growth of still more southern climates would be still better. Vv'ill not some of our enterprising planters make an experiment in the culture of this new article. Properly mana- ged, the product is caid to be from three to five tons per acre. Southern Dependence. The editor of the Avierican Agriculturist in his number for February, says he has paid out to farmers, chiefly in the State of New York, during the year 1845, over sLx thousand dol- lars, for improved stock and seeds, most of which has gone South. He further states that he probably did not make one-tuentieth of the purchases that were made for the same purpose. Now just take your pencil and calculate how much cotton it will take at present prices to pay for all these seeds, Ac. — nearly all of which is a dead loss to the South, simply because, when the stock and seeds come home and a:e paid for, our people too often don’t know how to manage them. Isit at all surprising that, with such drains on our resources, our part of the United States should be advancing backwards 'so fast 7 Horses. By thevery many glowingaccounts of the great excellence of the Morgan Horse, which we have read since our connection with the Agriciiltura press, we were induced to arrange with a gentle- man in Georgia, to purchase and introduce one. for the improvement of our Southern stock. Well, what think ye, is the upshot of the busi- ness! Read the following extract of a letter lately received from our correspondent, who was entrusted with the purchase, and that will tel! jou; “ The Morgan h.irse,’’ he says, “ has been run out these twenty years, and it is the merest gammen with jockies to ta’k about them. Eve- ry thing in the country is now called ‘ a Morgan,’ from the merest rat of a pony to a gaunt, lor.g-leuged, seventeen-hand horse. We have what is better than Morgan horses ever w-ere, viz: the Messenger, Mambrino, and Duroc crosses. They are almost thorc-ugh bred, and the most admirable roadsters that the world can produce. I have seen all kinds in England and other parts of Europe, including quite a number 42 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. of pure Arabians, Persians, Turkomans, Cos- sack horses of the Don, &c. &c. * * * * It fairly makes me sick to see the miserable Ca- nadian, and other horses palmed off upon the South by glib fellows, who, il they can write an article in some agricultural paper, are set down at once as great judges, though they really know nothing upon the subject. There is not one real good judge of horses out of one hundred pre- tenders, or indeed of stock of any kind.” This article is intended as a sort of counter- blast to the article on horses in the last number of the Cultivatoe; so that if any one shall have been induced thereby to think about get- ting a Morgan horse, he may be induced hereby to look sharp with whom he is about to deal. Domestic Wine. We have received the bottle of wine, and the cuttings of the Uchee Grape, so kindly sent by Mr. Peabody, of Columbus. The wine is a first-rate article — so pronounced by every one who has tasted it. Mr. Peabody’s account ot the grape from which the wine is made, is as follows : Springhill, Ala., January, 1846. Dear Sir; — Your favor of the 16th came duly to hand, and in reply to your inquiries respect- ing the grape, which my Port Wine is made from. I will most cheerfully give you the histo- ry of the grape. It is a native grape, which abounds on the Banks of the Uchee Creek in Russell county, Ala., the bunches are long, very compact, and of a jet black color when fully ripe. In its native wild state it yields but little juice, but that is extremely rich and makes a most dedciou.s wine, as you shall judge for your- self, for I will send by a gentleman who leaves for Augusta in a day or two, a bottle of the Black Uchee Port, and some cuttings of the grape. The bestnf Wine connoisseurs have pronounc- ed it equal to the best imported, and altogether superior to most of the trash sold for wine. A New York importer of wines and liquots of some celebrity, on being called in by some gen- tlemen (who were discussing the merits of a bottle,) to give his opinion, after deliberately tasting and closely scrutinizing, said: “Gentle- men, I pronounce it a cask of genuine Old Port, begot by a ten gallon keg of Muscat.” I think you will find it a good decision, for it has the bodv of Port, with a little of the Muscat flavor. The wine is perfectly pure, not havinga drop of any kind of spirits in it. Yours respectfully. Chas. a. Peabody. . From T\Ir. T. Speed, of Madison, Rlorgan county, we have received the tw'o specimens of wine mentioned in the following letter. Of the specimens, 'hat of the vintage of 1844 is gene- rally preferred by those who have tasted both; because, as one person said on trying them, there is something more manly about it. It is equal, in all respects, to the best Madeira. The other has more of the character of Muscatel. Both are first-rate, each of its kind. JAadiso.v, Ga., January 26, 1846. Dear- Sir ; — There appears to be some interest taken in making domestic wines in different sections of the country, and you being editor of the Southern Cultivator. I send you two bot- tles, the smaller from the vintage of 1844, and the larger from the last year’s. If you think them to be a good article, and believe the mode of making it wmuld be of any interest to your readers, I can furnish you the r cipe by which it was ma.le. You must excuse the smallness of the sample of the vintage of 1344, as 1 only made a little to see if it could be made on a small scale. Yours, very respectfully. T. Speed. ]\Tadison, Ga., February 7, 1845. Dear Sir .-—Yours of the 27th ult. was duly received. I herewith give you the recipe by which the two bottles of wine I sent you were made. The grapes should be gathered of a clear, dry day, and after the dew is off in the morning. They should be picked from the stems, and the grapes should then be well mashed. Let them remain in the must about eighteen hours. Then strain the juice from the must through some to- lerable open coarse cloth. Having no barome- ter, I used a fresh laid egg. Sweeten with brown sugar until the egg rises out of the juice as large as a 12^ cents piece. Put it into a cask and leave the bung open, and let it ferment four days. The cask must be full, so that in its fermenta- tion the dregs will rise to the top and be thrown oft. As often as two or three times a day fill up the cask with some juice kept in reserve for that purpose. At the end of the fourth day, draw it off as clear from sediment as practicable ; and to every ten gallons add one gallon 4th proof Cog- niac Brandy. Wash a pint of sand until the wa- ter runs clear from it ; add to the sand the whites of ten eggs ; beat the eggs and sand well toge- ther, but not to a froth; then pour it into the cask and bung it closely. The egg and sand form a nucleus which carries wiih it all remain- ing sediment to the botton, and the wine be- comes clear. Let it remain quiet until the last (jf October or first of November ; then draw off as long as it runs clear. It can then be bottled or returned to the cask after the cask is well washed. This racking is better to be done on a clear day. The largest bottle sent you was sweetened un- til the egg rose out about the size of a 25 cents piece. In 1839 I made t n gallons; il was sweetened until the egg rose to the size of our new coin 25 cents pieces. Many good judges of wine drank of it and pronounced it the best do- mestic wine they had ever tasted. I kept some of it four years and I thought age improved it very much. Yours, very lespectfully, T. Speed. “ First it blew, and then it snew, and then it thew, and then il friz.” Hood, The present winter, thus far, (20th Feb.) has been unequalled in severity by any one since 1835. There has been snow in Mississippi, ice at Tsew Orleans, cold unequalled before, so far as is known to the present inhabitants, at Corpus Christi, Texas, and indeed all over the Southern States the weather has been steadily, and, at times, intensely cold. Here, in Athens, on the morning of 21st Dec., the Thermometers show- ed, according t© exposure, the cold to be from 4 to 10 degrees above 0, or 22 to 23 degrees below the freezing point. In 1835, on the morning of 8th February, the mercury stood at 9 degrees be- low 0, or 41 degrees below freezing. The injury done by the cold of 21st Dec., to the grain crop is not so serious as was at first apprehended, as peop’e now think. But the a- amount of discomfort ensured in consequence of the open houses of the South, has been very great. The two preceding very mild winters put people off their guard, and hence they were taken by surprise, when the late cold came. If we had anticipated any such state of things, wo would have published in due season, the follow- ing excellent recipe for keeping one’s-self warm in cold weather. We publish it now — andasMr. Webster said recently in the Senate, about cer- tain memorials against the admission of Texas, which he presented after Texas had been admit- ted— if they are too late for Texas they may be in time for Cuba — so our recipe, though too late for this winter may answer for the next. We have not tried the recipe ourselves, but it stands to reason that it is good, for it is full of very sound philosophy, and is, withal, very old ; and what is still better than all, it is not very expensive. Keeping Warm ALL Winter wn H a Single Log of Wood. — To enjoy health, warmth, peace of mind and a vigorous constitution, if you have nothing else to do, take a log of wood ol mode- rate size, carry it to the upper garret and throw it from the window into the street, taking care of course, not to knock any body on the head; this done, run down stairs as fast as you can ; take it up again to the garret and do as before. Repeat the process until you are sufficiently warm — when you may lay away the log for ano- ther occasion. — Old Recipe. The Late Memphis Convention. The following resolutions are appended to the report of the Committee on Agriculture : 1. Resolved, That it is the opinion of this Convention that the present depressed condition of the cotton planting interests of the South is entirely owing to the over-production of Cotton, and that the crisis demands some immediate well-concerted plan for restoring the equilibrium in the cotton market, by equalizing the supply and demand. 2. Resolved, That we believe it practicable for the planters of the South to form a compact, agreeing on some definite ratio of annual dimi- nution of the crop (say about one-third,) for a term of years — until they are in a measure re- lieved from the evils complained of, by a mani- fest revival of a satisfactory demand for their great staple. 3. Resolved, That inasmuch as the proposed reduction in the cotton crop, would give rise to a new direction oi capital and labor, we recom- mend the establishment of manufactories in the South as the most profitable investment of said capital and labor. 4. Resolved, That we believe any prompt and uniform action on the part ot the cotton planters of the South, justifyingthe conclusion that those pioposed objects will be successfully carried out, would have a most salutary influence on thepre- sent price of cotton. 5. Resolved, Should the attempt in forming a compact among the planters of the South, for a general reduction of the cotton crop fail, we consider it a paramount inducement for them to encourage, not only in their own domestic eco- nomy, but by the manufacturing of the North, every new source for the consumption of the raw material. 6. Resolved, That w'e recommend it asanin- violable rule in the economy of every planter, to raise an abundance of provisions, and every spe- cies of grain and stock that may be required for the consumption oi the plantation. And we do especially rei ommend the substitution o^ the “ comfort” tor the woollen blanket, as an article of economy, believing it to be cheaper, more healthy, and more comfortable for the use of ne- groes. 7. Resolved, That above all, we believe the more frequent formation of Agricultural Socie- ties in every Southern State, together with a more liberal patronage of Agiicultural periodi- cals on the part of planters, would prove power- ful agents for the correction of the errors most prevalent in our system of agriculture, and for inspiring a generous emulation for practical sci- ence so eminently conducive to the development of all the sources of wealth among us. Remarks. — These are the lesolutions. The report is a good one— the whole of it, except that part which relates to a combination among cot- ton planters to reduce the amount of the crop. No combination, we think, of that sort can be formed in the first place. And in the second, if it could be, it would accomplish nothing. The elements of failure would be inevitably blended with its very organization. Reduction of the quantity produced, by such means, is utterly im- practicable. Of the resolutions, the 6th and 7th are worthy of all commendation. The 7th, especially, em- bodies suggestions, w'hich, if acted on steadily and earnestly, w'ould produce just such results as all sound, practical Southern men see the ne- cessity of, and would greatly rejoice to see pro- duced. PTntfMM THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 43 Aid to Agriculture. Well, the Legislatures of all the Southern States have adjourned, and so far as we have been able to learn anything of their proceedings, not a single thing has been done for Agriculture, by any one of them. In some instances, it is true, the subject has been pressed on their atten- tion in a very appropriate manner in the Govern- or’s messages; — but there the matter ended; — and soil will end every year, until the tillers of the soil assert their rights to an equal participa- tion in the benefits of the government, which they, chiefly, have to support with their money, and defend with their arms, when danger comes. This is the more to be regretted, as legislative ac- tion, for the benefit of Agriculture, in many of the free States, as they are called, has had an impor- tant agency in placing them far ahead of the South in wealth and prosperity. In a late number of the Ohio Cultivator, we find a synopsis of what has been done, in this re- spect, in several of the most important of the free States — and one has only to go into these States look at the condition of things th'ere, and contrast it with that in those where no such laws exist, to be at once satisfied that public money could not be better spent. A good deal has been accomplished in having the interest of Agriculture occupy the prominent position >t does in the late annual messages of the Governors of South Carolina and Georgia. This is one important step towards what ought to be done. In due season, we have no doubt, the most ardent hopes of the friends of Agricul. ture for efficient aid from the Legislature of every Southern State, will be fully realised. [From the Ohio Cultivator.] In Maine the county or district agricultural societies are aided and sustained by an annual appropriation from the State Treasury, of an a- mount equal to what is raised from fees or con- tributions by the members, not to exceed S300 for each society. In addition to this, bounty Is, or hasbeen paid by the State to encourage the pro- duction of wheat, and some other crops. In Massachusetts the law provides, that when any county or district agricultural and horticul- tural society shall have raised and invested at interest, $1,000 as a permanent capital, the in- come of which is to be devoted to the objects of the society, the sum of $200 shall be annually paid to the society from the State Treasury ; and if the capital at interest exceed $1,000, the State bounty shall be increased in proportion, not to exceed $600. The premiutns offered and not competed for, and other surplus funds are allow- ed to be added to the capital fund each year, so that a number of societies have now $3,000 or over at interest, and receive $600 annually from the State. Besides this, large amounts have been expended by the State for bounties on crops, and for agricultural and scientific surveys. The effect of this liberal polict has been to place Massachusetts in advance of all other States of the Union, in improvements in Agriculture and the increase of domestic industry and wealth. For many years, indeed, that State was the only one in which any considerable progress was ma- king in agriculture; and at thistims it exhibits a more scientific and profitable system of farnuncr, as a whole, than can elsewhere be found. In New York the sum of $8,000, is annually appropriated from the State Treasury, of which sum, $700 is given to the State Agricultural So- ciety, and $950 to the American Institute, and the remainder divided among the county agricultu- ral socieries. In addition to this, a valuable vol- ume of agricultural essays and reports is annually published by the State and distributed gratuitous- ly ; and a bounty is paid on silk to encourage its growth and manufacture. The law for pro- moting agriculture in that State has only been in operation five years, but its effects are already exciting the wonder and admiration of all intel- ligent observers. In Pennsylvania, a law was enacted about 20 years ago, similar to that now existing in Ohio, providing for the organization of an Agricultural society in each county, and allowing them to re- ceive from $30 to $150, annually, from the county treasury, provided the county commissioners deem it expedient to make the appropriation. The effect of this law, as in Ohio, was of very littleif any general benefit. Only a few county societies were organized under it, and most that were organized had but a short duration. The only society that has of late years been active and useful is the one called the Penn. Society, which embraces the city and county of Philadel- phia, and one or two counties adjoining, and which is aided by a positive appropriation of $50, for each member of Assembly elected by these counties. In Indiana a law was enacted a few years ago, providing for the incorporation of a State Board of Agriculture, and a society in each county, with rules for the government of a complete system of State and county operations for the advance- ment of Agriculture, comprising an act of 17 sec- tions; but like a piece of beautiful machinery without motive power, the law has proved ufi'erZy useless — the State Board we believe never had a meeting, and not a county society was organ- ized; and why 1 Simply because no provision was made for defraying the necessary expendi- tures of the board, or for aiding the societies, in their endeavors to promote the generalgood; and the kind of men who are the most efficient, and take the most interest in these matters are not such as can well afford to spend their money as well as time in such business. In Ohio, as most of our readers are aware, a law was passed in March 1839, providing that the Commissioners of each county, may, ‘if they deem it e.' pedient’ appropriate out of the county funds a sum not exceeding $100, annual- ly, in aid of the county agricultural society, if oncis duly organized. American Ingenuity. Mr. WEissiNGER,one of the editors of the Dollar Farmer, in one of his letters written from New England, thus speaks of the Ameiican character as developed in that part of the Uni- ted Stales: “There is no people on the globe, not the French nor the English, that can compare with Americans in adaptation for manulactures and the mechanic arts, in ingenuity, enterprise and versatility. Mind is no where else so free, ac- tive and enterprising, and there is no country that begins to compare with this in the number of intelligent and inventive persons, in propor- tion to population. In every branch at manufac- tures that we have attempted we have succeed- ed; in many we have advanced far ahead of other nations. In the last lorty years ten valu- able improvements and inventions have been made in this country, in the departmentsattend- ed to here, forone in Europe. Many American inventions have been transferred to Europe, but some we retain as secrets. Witness the carpet power-loom, invented bv Bigelow, which gives the American it anufacturer an immense advan- tage, and which yields to the inventor a very large income by the si.nple per centage paid him by the manufacturers who use his loom Such is the confidence of American Ingenuity that 't in many instances refuse.s to avail itself of European inventions for the most complica- ted untried processes, setting to wo'-k at once to make the machine, and seldom failing to pro- duce one superior to those of Europe. I asked a New England man his business. He said he was an inventor, explaining himself to mean that it was his business to devise the m.eansof doing anything that is required. The maxim of the country is, if a thing is to be done, there is a way to do it; and that way is generally dis- covered as soon as the demand arises. Such is the character of the A merican people. In spite of all the powers of Democracy, they are des- tined to become the greatest manufacturing peo- ple on the globe, and the fact that they can make their own bread and meat and produce thi ir own cotton, hemp and wool will be no ob- stacle, but an aid. If they can feed their own operatives and supply them with the raw mate- rials so much the better — it is no reason why they should get their furniture and wearing ap- parel from foreign workshops. “ By the way, I am reminded by this train of thought to say a word ot the inducements offer- ed for educating youth with especial view to fit them to conduct manufacturing establishments. The learned professions are crowded, but there will be no supplying this demand for those eve- ry way qualified to take charge of such estab- lishments. The demand, too, for designers, engravers, chemists and machinists will be boundless. Let fathers educate their children with a view to these employments. Let them be grounded in mathematics, natural philosophy and chemistry, and then let them be placed in the woikshopsand serve a thorough apprentice- ship. Here is a refuge for those who vainly desire to give their children position by placing them in over-crowded professions, for which many are unfit. Nothing can be more respec- table than to have charge of the establishments I am speaking of. or to fill the posts in them of artists and men of science. The designer of Lowell, who recently killed himself in a fit of drunkenness, though an intemperate man, had a salary of S2,500 a year. Let fathers think of these things and educate some of their children for the workshop and Aithe workshop. ©riginal (Eommunirations. Management of Slaves. Mr. Camak: — Looking over the back num- bers of the Southern Agriculturist, published in Charleston, S. C., I met with the subjoined ar- ticle on the “Management of Slaves.” Ob- servation and experience have taught me that the success of the planter depends as much up- on the judicious management of his slaves as upon the proper cultivation ol the soil. Fully persuaded that the plan adopted lor the treat- ment and management ot his negroes by a South Carolina planter, if pursued by Georgia planters, would be attended with eminent suc- cess, and prouuctive of the most salutary and wholesome results to all— slave, master and country— I respectlully suggest, if it meet your approbation, the le-publicatii'n of this excellent article in the ctdumns ol your valuable paper. Very respectfully, and truly Your obedient servant, Burke. [From the SoulhertiAgriculiu rise] Dear Sir:— In compliance with a reque.st made by you some time the last winter, I now give you the plan I have adopted for the treat- ment and management of my negroes. I must first, however, apologize for the delay that has taken place. 1 assure you, in making thiscom- munication, I do it expressly to convince you of my W'illingness to afford any information in my power, solicited by my neighbors. I shall state to you, therefore, frank'y, and as fully as circumstances wdll allow-, the views which have governed me in laying down the plan I have pursued. When 1 commenced planting, I was induced to believe, from the advice 1 received, that suc- cess depended more upon the judicious ma- nagement ot negroes than anything else; and that in order to arrive at any good system of management, it u-as necessary. First — That there should be a perfect under- standing between the master and the slave. Secondly — That certain rules should be laid down on the plantation, which shvuld be con- sidered fundamental rules, never to be deviated from, and which should bedislinctly understood by all, and. Thirdly — That there should be uniformity of conduct on the part of the master, w ho ought to exhibit c on.siderable interest fn the proceed- ings on his plantation, and an ambition to excel. What I would mean by a perfect understand- ing between a master and a slave is, that the slave should know- that his master is to govern 44 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. absolute!}’’, and he to obey implicitly. That he is never tor a moment to exercise either his will or judgment in opposition to a positive order. The rules 1 have laid down, and which are considered by all on the plantation, as funda- mental rules, are : 1st. No negro shall leave the plantation at any time, without my permission, or in my ab- sence, that ol' the driver ; the driver in that case, being responsible for the cause of such absence, Avhich ought never to be omitted to be inquired into. 2d. The driver should never leave the plan- tation, unless on very urgent business of'.the plantation. 3d. No negro shall be allowed to marry out of the plantation. 4th. No negro shall be allowed to sell any- thing without my express permission. 1 have ever maintained the doctrine that my negroes have no time whatever ; that they are always liable to my call without questioning fora moment the propriety of it; and I adhere to this on the grounds of expediency and right. The very security of the plantation requires that a general and uniform control overthe peo- ple of it should be exercised. Who are to pro- tect the plantation from the intrusions of ill-de- signing persons when every body is abroad? Who can tell the moment when a plantation might be threatened with destruction from fire? Could the flames be arrested if the slaves are scattered throughout the neighborhood, seeking their amusement? Are these not duties, of great importance, and in which every negro himself is deeply interested? To render this part of the rule justly applicable, however, it would be necessary that such a settled arrange- ment should exist on the plantation as to make it unnecessary for a negro to leave it, or to have a good plea for so doing. You must, therefore, make him as comfortable at home as possible, affording him what is essentially necessary for his happiness — you must provide for him your- self, and by that means create in him a habit of perfect dependence on you. Allow it once to be understood by a negro, that he is to provide lor himself, and you that moment give him an undeniable claim on you for a portion of his time to make this provision; and should you from necessity, or any other cause, encroach upon his time, disappointment and discontent are seriously lelt. If 1 employ a laborer to perform a certain quantum of work per day, and 1 agree to pay him a certain amount for the performance of said work, when he has accomplished it, I of course, have no lurlher claim on him for his time or services. But how different is it with a slave! Yv^ho can calculate the exact profit or expense of a slave one year with another? It I furnish my negro with every necessary of life, without the least care on his part — if I support him in sickness, however long it may be, and piv all his expenses, though he does nothing — if I maintain him in his old age, when he is incapable of rendering either himself or myself any service, ami not entitled to an ex- clusive right to his time? Good feelings, and a sense of propriety would always prevent un- necessary employment on the sabbath, and po- licy would check any exaction of excessive la- bor in common. Whatever other pi ivileges I allow the driver, he is not su.Tered to send any negro off the plan- tation, unless he sends him to me, or some ex- traordinary circumstance arises that could make it proper that a message should be sent to a neighbor: tor as his transactions are confined solely to the plantation, there rarely could exist a necessity to communicate elsewhere than with me. It he sends him for his own purpose he is answerable tor his absence, as the negro Avould be, did he go away without any permis- sion at all. I never give a negro a ticket to go from home without he first states particularly where he wishes to go, and assigns a cause for his desi:-- ing to be absent. 11' he offers a good reason I n ever refuse, b'.tt otherwise, I never grant him a ticket, and feel satisfied that no practice is more prejudicial to the community, and to the negroes themselves, than that of giving them general tickets to go where they please. lam so opposed to this plan, that I never permit any negro to remain on my plantation whose ticket does not authorize him expressly to come to it. 1 believe there are some who think that alter a negro has done his work, it is an act of oppres- sion to confine him to the plantation, when he might be strolling about the neighborhood for his amusement and recreation. This is cer- tainly a mistaken humanity. Habit is every- thing. The negro who is accustomed to re- main constantly at home, is just as satisfied with the society on the plantation, as that which he could find elsewhere ; and the very same re- strictions laid upon him, being equally imposed on others, he does not feel them, for society is kept at home for him. As the driver is answerable for the good con- duct of the negroes, and the proper application of their time, he ought always to be present to attend; otherwise he could never with proprie- ty be charged with neglect, in which case all re- sponsibility would be at an end. No rule that I have stated is of more impor- tance than that relating to negroes marrying out of the plantation. It seems to me, from what observations I have made, it is utterly impossi- ble to have any method, or regularity where the men and women are permitted to take wives and husbands indiscriminately off the planta- tion. Negroes are very much disposed to pur- sue a course of this kind, and without being able to assign any good reason, though the mo- tive can be readily perceived, and is a strong one with them; but one that tends not in the least to the benefit of the master, or their ulti- mate good. The inconveniences that at once strikes one as arising out of such a practice are these : First — In allowing the men to marry out of the plantation, you give them an uncontrolable right to be frequently absent. Secondly — Wherever their wives live, there they consider their homes, consequently they are indifferent to the interest of the plantation to which they actually belong. Thirdly- -It creates a feeling of independ- ence, from being, of right, out of the control of ■their master for a time. Fourthly — They are repeatedly exposed to temptations from meeting and associating with negroes from different directions, and with va- rious habits and views. Fifthly — Where there are several women on a plantation, they may have husbands from dff- ferent plantations belongingto different persons. These men possess different habits — are accus- tomed to different treatment, and have different privileges; so yoar plantation every day be- comes the rendezvous of a medley of charac- ters. Negroes who have the privilege of a month ticket to go where they please, and at any hour that they say they have finished their work, to leave their master’s plantation, come into yours about midday, when your negroes are at work, and the driver engaged ; they either take possession of the houses in which their wives live, and go to sleep, or stroll about in perlect idleness, feeling themselves accessible to every- thing. What an example to those at work at the time! Can any circumstance be more sub- versive of good order and contentment! Sixthly — When a man and his wife belong to different persons, they are liable to be separated from each other, as well as theirchildren, either by the caprice of either of the parties, or where there is a sale o! property. This keeps up an unsettled state of things, and gives rise to re- peated new connexions. It might be asked how does this rule answer when there are several men on a plantation, and few women, or vice versa, where there are several women, and few men. I would observe, it would be best to equalize the number ol both se.xes as nearly as possible. This can be done either by purchase nr sale. For to adopt rules merely because they are good in themselves, and not to pursue a plan which would make them] applicable, would be fallacious. I never allow my negroes to sell anything without my express permission. I never re- strict them in any acts of industry, but reward them punctually for their exertions, bv taking from them at a fair price whatever they justly have to offer. Where they have all the com- forts they have a right to expect, regularly and carefully furnished them, they very readily and cheerfully submit to any such restrictions. 1 furnish my negroes regularly with their full share of allowance weekly. I give them an- nually their clothes and shoes, anrt every third year a blanket. I supply them with salt, and from time to time through the year salt fish and tobacco. If a negro is suffered to sell anything he chooses without any inquiry being made, a spirit of trafficing is at once created. To carry this on, both means and time are necessary, nei- ther of which is he of right possessed. A ne- gro would never be content to sell only what he raises of either corn, poultry or the like ; but he would sell a part of his allowance also, and would be tempted to commit robberies to obtain things to sell. Besides, he would never go through his work carefully, and particularly when other engagements more interesting and pleasing are constantly passing through his mind; but would be apt to put off his work for a future period, or slight it over. That the general conduct of a master has a very considerable influence on the character and habits of his slaves, will be readily admit- ted. When a master is uniform in his own ha- bits and conduct, his slaves know his wishes, and what they are to expect if they act in oppo- sition to, or conformity with them: therefore, the more order and contentment exist. A plan- tation might be considered as a piece of machi- nery ; to operate successfully, all of its parts should be uniform and exact, and the impelling force regularand steady ; and the master, if he pretended at all to attend to his business, should be their impelling force. If a master exhibits no extraordinary interest in the proceedings on his plantation, it is hardly to be expected that any other feelings but apathy, and perfect indif- ference could exist with his negroes; and it would be unreasonable for him, who has the principal incitements, and is careless, to expect attention and exertion from those who have no other interest than to avoid the displeasure of their master. Whenever the season for hoeing begins, whatever tasks a negro commences with, are considered his throughout the working of the crop. Sickness sometimes produces a little va- riation in this plan, but to no great extent. Where a negro knows that the task he is work- ing is to be worked by him the next time he goes over the field, he is induced, in order to render the next working as light as possible, to work it well at first. But where he is allowed to lake his task indiscriminately as he comes in- to the field, there is always a great contention for tasks, each endeavoring to obtain the easiest to work. By that means great injustice and imposition arise. The fastest worker would always have the choice of tasks, and it is not always the fastest worker who is the best work- er. Instead of taking pains to do his work well, he hurries over it, to have the choice of the next task. In the different departments on the plantation as much distinction and separation are kept up as possible, with a view to create responsibility. The driver has a directing charge of everything, but there are subordinate persons, who take the more immediate care of the different depart- ments. For instance, I make one person an- swerable for my stock of cattle, the plantation horses, the carls, wagon.«, plows and their tack- lings. Another has charge of my boats; a third attends the dairy, the sick, &c. ; a fourth, the poultry, and providing lor, ani taking care of the little negroes whose parents are in the field. Each of these negroes, however, do other work. As good a plan as any I have found, to estab' THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 45 lish security and good order on the plantation, is that of constituting a watch at night, con- sisting ol two or Tuore men. They are answer- able for all trespasses committed during their watch, unless they produce the offender or give immediate alarm. When the protection of a plantation is left to the negroes generally, you at once perceive the truth of the maxim, “that what is every one’s business, is no one’s busi- ness.” But when a regular watch is established, each in turn performs his tour of duty, so that the most careless is at limes made to be observant and watchful. The very act of organizing a watch bespeaks a care and attention on the part of a master, which has a due influence on the negro. Southern Sndependeiice. Mr. Camak: — By last mail some unknown hand forwarded to Messrs. Cooper &Stroop a number of the Chronicle Sentinel, containing an extract from yourpapei, in which is copied a notice taken from a Wetumpka (Ala.) paper, of certain very superior castings about then said to be delivering in Wetumpka, from Mr. Moors’s Foundry in Alabama, staling also what he was doing, and how much, &c., after which, you express a desire to know what Cooper & Stroup are doing, and you appeal to me individually to inform you. Having at all times had a pleasant as w'eli as profitable intercourse with you, 1 cheerfully avail myself of the first opportunity to •■'espond. First, we have too much to do, to talk much or write much except on business. W'e are blowing two good furnaces v.dth a capacity for 6 to 7 tons metal per day, producing from twenty to twenty-five tons per week; — su- perior metal in the form of machinery, agri- cultural implements, hollow ware, pig metal and wrought iron. In machinery, we make all kinds of gearing for cotten mills, grist andsaw mills, cotton gins and horse powers, threshers, wheat fans, plows, &c. Cast machinery for cot- ton factories, fir looms, spindles, throstles and cards, are made by us equal to any in the Union, pronounced so by the machinists at the Coweta Fails Manufacturing Company’s works at Columbus, Geo. These men are recently from Low-ell, Mass. We are sending hollow ware to almost every part of Georgia, and selling it at from ‘3i to 4^ cents. We have a depot at Newton & Lu- cas’s, Athens, where it ma}^ be bought by w.’holesale at factory prices. Ten tons of it are now on the wmy there. About the time specified in your extract from the Wetumpka paper, we delivered and sold at Wetumpka a ton and a half of hollow ware as good as ever went to that market, the quan- tity and character of which we hope will not disparage that of our neighbor. We can send more. We have a depot in Augusta and Columbus, and hope soon to have in Macon. In strength and durability our wares and machinery have an advantage over most that comes to Georgia. We are making about a half ton of mallea- ble iron per day when operating, and have on hand a stock of thirty tons bar iron and plow moulds lor market. We have a fi wir mill that can grind eight to ten bushels per hour per run, and makes good fljuf; two corn grists, one of which only is now operating, and grinds 50 to GO bushels per day. There is a popul.iiion of about 400 depend- ant on our operations for daily subsistence, of whom, probably, two hundred are women and children, without work, who might be employed in cotton and wool factories at nom.nal prices. We have water power without limit, in two miles and a half of the Rail Road to Charleston and Savannah. We consume annually about 25.000 bushels ot corn, 3 to 500 barrels of flour, 100.000 lbs. pork, besides other minor articles; from 10 to 20 sacks cotfre per month, besides sugar, s:ilt, molasses, etc. This, sir, is a part of what we'are doing. — We are building a Merchant Mill (of stone,) capable ol manufacturing 3 to 500 barrels flour per day. W-e are putting up a wool cardingmill for Mr. Buchanan, to which is to be added ma- chinefy for coarse woollens. We have the foundaiioii of a Rolling Mill laid, and expect to start it by December next. We have filty tons ol pig metal on the way to Boston, Providence, Charleston, Savannah and Augusta, and ought to suppiv every foundry in Georgia it they know their interest. We have the power ot the Etowah river five limes over in three miles, and where one mil- lion of dollars might now be profitably invested. Having hastily answ’ered your question so pointedly referring to my affairs, excuse me if I in turn a-«’ir one of you, to wit: What w'ill you and your neighbors do with your idle capital ? Can’t you apply it so as to put idle people to work? Re.‘ted with the turning pluw with- out the subsoil furrow. The field was planted on the 7ih and 8.1; of 46 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. April, and all treated with the same number ol plowings artd hoeings, without “favor or affec- tion,” my object being to ascertain the precise amount of benefit accruing trom the subsoiling and manure. The result was, that although the whole crop was little over one half, on account ol the ex- treme drouth, the difference was three to one in favor of the part subsoiled, while the only ex- tra labor expended was the three extra furrows to each row at planting, and putting on the ma- nure. An experiment was tried by one of my neigh- bors, of subsoiling for corn on pine land, with a result very favorable to the practice, though I cannot give you the precise amount of benefit. Suffice It to say, these experiments have induced several of our large planters to try it this year upon a large scale, and when the result is as- certained, I hope they will have the goodness to make their experience public, as there seems to be considerable prejudice upon the minds of some in regard to this matter. P. Davidson. P. S. Can any one inform us in regard to the culture of Nankin Cotton, and where seed can be procured 7 Medville, Ga., January 21, 184&. Nankin Cotton. Mr. Camak By this mail 1 forward you a sample of Nankin Cotton, in a newspaper, which grew from seed I imported last year from Malta. The staple is finer and longer than the Malta cotton, as compared with some unginned cotton with the imported seed. I planted this cotton on a plantation where no other cotton grew, and ginned it in a gin where no other cotton was ginned, thus keeping it Irom being injured by mixing with other cotton. It grew finely and was free from the rot which general- ly prov'es very destructive to our common Nan- kin I have a few hundred bushels of the seed for sale, at two dollars per bushe'. The seed im- ported cost me more than double that price. They can be forwarded to Columbus or Apa- lachicola by steamboats, &c. I have an order lor some of the seed from a gentleman in South Carolina, which will be shipped to Charleston via Apalachicola. Should you think the pa- trons of the Southern Culiivalnr would wish to procure any of the seed, you can give such no- tice in that periodical as you may deem proper. Yours, very respectfully, ileuBEN C. Shorter, Sr. Enfaula, Ala , January IG, 1846. [ I’he sample of cotton mentioned in Gen. Shorter’s letter we have received. It is very beautiful in color, and the staple is very fineand silk-like. We hope Gen. S. will be re-amply rewarded for his enterprise in bringing this new article into the country, and introducing it to the notice ol cotton planters. The Editor.] Fencing. Mr. Camak: — I see in the first number of the Southern Cultivator, in the report made by the Committee on the Agriculture of Geor- gii, that they state that it behooves the Geor- gians 10 begin to think of some substitute for the com non rail fence. 1 am now making an ex- periment that I have no doubt will succeed, and answer the purpose of th - best kind of a rail fence. Wherever there is a fence that will se- cure the farm for three years, ridge up a bed of land inside of the fence, in the same manner that land is prepared for cotton, and open the ridge wiih a narrow p'ow, and if the land is very poor open the ridge pretty deep and fill it with rnanure, and sow, or rather drill, China tree ber- ries about the first of April, They should be drilled pretty thick, so that they may be suffi- ciently thick, and if th.ey should come up too thick they can be cut out to a proper stand. In three years they will make a fence sufficiently strong to turn any kind of stock. I drilled about one-half mile last year. The weather was very dry for some time after I planted the berries, and they did not come up until late in May, but wherever the ground was properly prepared and moist I have a fine stand. The best of them are from six to eight inches high. This year I shall plow and hoe them. I shall prepare this year about one mile more inside of my plantation, and I have no doubt that in three years they will an- swer the purpose as well, or better, than the best kind of rail fence. The China is a tree of quick growth, and flourishes finely in the Southern States. The berries should be covered about two inches deep. Persons living in an open prairie country would do well to make the experiment, as well as those who live where timber is incon- venient to be had. Respectfully yours, &c John Green, Burnt Corn, Ala., January, 1846. Fencing. Mr. Camak; I find short practical rules of immense benefit to the farmer. As the time for resetting old and making new fences is at hand, I present your patrons with a very short and simple rule to ascertain the number of rails ne- cessary to do the amount of fencing needed. Role — Measure around the ground to be fenced and multiply the number ol ijardshy 4, and this gives the number of rails necessary to make a 10 rail fence over the ground measured. Example. — Suppose you desire to make a fence one hundred yards long. Then: lOti X 4==1U0, the number of rails required. In a fence made by the above rule the stretch made by two pannels is fifteen feet, the base or width ol the strip of ground occupied by the fence is 4i feet. The angle is about I2(P. The practical mode ol laying this worm is to first stake off two lines, wi,h the distance of 4^ leet between them, then prepare a rod iSfeetlong, which is to be carried by the man who lays the worm, lor the purpose ol measuring bet ween the corners. In laying let the ends of the rails cross precisely upon the two lines previously laid off feel apart. By this rule you have a fence which is commonly made in the country. But I think it is rather straight, and the base too narrow, and the number of rails too small (10) to the pannel to make either a handsome or strong fence; and, therefore, prefer the following Rule. — Measure, as before, and multiply the number of yards by 5. For every 100 yards add 16 rails. This gives the number of rails to make a fence of 12 rails high, with 14 feet stretch and 5 feet base. Example. — Suppose it is desired to fence one hundred yards Then; 100X0-^16=3=516 rails required. A fence made by this last rule, though it takes more rails, yet the farmer is well paid in the strength and beauty of his fence. The angle, in this instance, is about 108°, which makes a much handsomer crook. Were it not for occupying too muck space in your valuable paper, 1 w’ould give the rationale of the rules, for the benefit of the curious. Your Iriend, Walton. Measures— -Millet— Meat and Corn. Mr. Editor— Sir :— I see in your last number of the Cultivator recommendations how to irnke measures; also, how to measure acorn crib. Now, I do not say that these are Incorrect, in the leasfybut permit me to give you my rule, and then pers ms measuring can work by either. In the first place, almost. every farmer has a use for a half, or biisht 1 measure, and for want ot knowing the proper size to make them, he goes to town, buys a Yankee made one, pays three times as much for it ns the plank and nails are worth that it takes to make one. Any man who can saw a plank and drive nails can make one. The rule is this : A box 12 inches square and 15 inches deep will hold one bushvl. For a hall bushel, 12 inches square and 7^ inches deep. For a peck 8k 8 k8J — a little too large. The calculations are made for the bushel to contain 2,160 i iches. To measure a corn crib — multiply the length and hrea hh togeiher and multiply that product by four. This will give you the amount the crib would contain suppose the corn to be one foot deep. Multiply this product by the height of the pile ; cut off the right hand figure ; in short, mul- tiply the length, breadth and depth together, and that product by four, and cut off the right hand figure. Example: — Suppose a crib 10 k15 k8 V. Presid’s. Jno. S. Shepard. Esq., 3 Col. R. \V. Williams, Cor. Sec’y. F. H. Flagg, Rec. Sec’y and Treas’r. On motion, the Recording Secretary was in- structed to request the several papers in Talla- hassee to publish the proceedings ol ihe meeting together with the Consiitulion 0! the Society. The meeting then adjourned to the first Sat- urday in March. B. F. Whitner, Pres’t. P. H. Flagg, Secretary. Cf^NSTITUTION. “We. the undersigned, do hereby form our- Ives into an association, to be devoted to the improvenieiu of agriculiuie and agricultural economy, under the name and style ol the Agri- cuUural Society of Leon Counly. 1. Any person shall be eligifile as a member on subscribing this Constitmion and paying to the Treasurer the sum of S'L 2. The officers shall consist of a President, three Vice-Presidents, a Corresponding Secre- tary, and a Recording Secretary, who shall also act as Treasurer ; to be annually elected by the Society. 3. The Society shall meet in Tallahassee on the first Saturday in every month. 4. Eight members present at any regular meeting ofthe Society shall constitute a quorum tor business. 5. The President shall presideatall meetings and appoint the several Committees, and in his absence, a Vice-President shall act, or if none be present, a Chairman, pro tern. 6. The Corresponding Secretary, shall keep a file ( f all communications received, a copy of all letters written by him in carrying on the cor- respondence ol' the Society, and shall revise and superintend all publications ordered by the So- ciety. 7. The Recording Secretary and Treasurer shall record the proceedings of the Society at each meeting, in a suitable book, and shall re- ceive the funds of the Society, and pay the same to the order of the President, keeping a record of all receipts and expenditures. 8. That there shall be a Standing Committee on Cotton, whose duty it shall be to collect all facts relative to the growing crop, the amount produced, the kinds most profitable, with such other observations as may be useful to the So- ciety ; to be prepared and reported through the President at the call ol the Society. 9. There shall be similar committees on To- bacco, Sugar, Rice, 'Corn, small Grain, Root crops. Fibrous Plants and Fruits, with similar powers and duties. 10. There shall also be a Cimmittee on Stock, whose duly it shall be to report on the best varielies, the best methods of rearing, &c., at each annual meeting of the Society. 11. There shall be four Visiting Committees, consisting of three persons each, and it shall be the duly of some one of these Committees to vi- sit the plantation of each member of the Socie- ty, at least once in every year, and report to the President upon its management and condition, and he shall embody these reports and submit them at the annual meeting of the Society. 12. It shall be the duly ol every member ol the Society to iry annually some experiment in agriculture, manufactures, o- mechanical arts, and to communicate the result to the President, to be laid before the Society. 13. Each member of the Society shall exhi- bit, at the annual meeting, some improved do- mestic animal, some specimen of domestic in- dustry, or some improved agricultural produc- tion. And all others, not members, are invited to exhibit, at the same lime, specimens in the line of their business, as mechanics, artisans or manufacturers. 14. The annual meeting of the Society shall be held in Tallahassee on the first Thursday in December in every year. 15. A majority of the members present at any regular meeting of the Society may propose any amendment, and if the same be adopted by two-thirds of the members present at the suc- ceeding regular meeting, such amendment shall become part ot this Constitution. B. F. Whitner, President. F. H. Flagg, Secretary. Agricultural Implements, &c. From ihe Floridian. We are pleased to noiice that Messrs. Starr & Flagg have this lal! brought out an assortment ot Agricultural Implements for the use of our Planters. They are purchased at the Agricul- tural Ware House of Ruggles, Nourse & Ma- son, Q,uincy Flail, Boston, an i are sold at Bos- ton prices, adding only the cost ot transporta- I tion. We hear all the first invoice, consisting of Sub-Soif Plows, and Eagle Plows for break- ing up land, and smaller sizes for the cultiva- tion of Cotton, Corn, Sugar cane and Rice, were disposed of in two days after their arrival. Orders have been given for a further supply, with the addition ol Cultivators, Corn Shellers, Corn Mills, Hay Cutters, Harrows, &c., all of which will soon be received. We are informed that several of our large planters have used the Eagle Plow, and are highly pleased with it. They can cultivate the land much u ore thoroughly, and make better crops on a less quantity of land, than by the old method of plowdng. We have always been of opinion, that the lands in Florida were not pro- perly cultivated. There is too little attention paid to breakirg up the soil for the crop, more perhaps than in the cultivation after the crop is planted. Many planters are of opinion that deep plowing injures the land more than it benefits the crop, inasmuch as it exposes too much of the undersoil to the action of the sun, and de- stroys Its productiveness. Some we have heard contend that deep plowing w'ould ca'.'S“ more wash on rolling land. This certainly must he a mistake — as the surface of land merely scratch- ed up by a small plow, will, on the first heavy rain, become so saturated w'ith water, as to go off almost in a body — while land v\ell broken up will retain the water, and give time for the water to soak into the soil below. We have frequently recommended deep plowing to our planting friends, but have generally been met with one or the other reason why it should not be practised. We know of others, however, who have adopted a more thorough cultivation, and have succeeded far better than in any other mode they ever pursued. The Sab-Soil Plow is a remedy to an exposure of the soil to the in- fluence of the sun. It is so constructed, that it enters the soil deeply, and merely breaks up and mellows the earth, while the topsoil is lelt to remain in its old position. It is not turned over as with the common mould-board plow. — Flow much, however, we would ask, of the heavy burthen of grass which always follows a crop after being laid by, is lost to the soil by the simple scratching of the small one horse plow ? If it is turned under at all, it is covered so scan- tily that instead of rotting and becoming ma- nure for the next crop, the sun dries it to a pow- der, or the wind drives it into a fence coiner, where all the substance is wasted. Too little attention is paid to manuring land. We have too much land here logo to this trouble, and when one clearing is exhausted, or entirely worn out by improper cultivation, another new clearing must he made. This generally hap- pens before the old stumps are removed, and frequently before much of the deadened timber is out of the way, Asricul.urists at the North do not so cultivate their land. Such a course there, would in a short time rroduce starvation. We if.ink our planters here should go in for a belter cultivation ot their land — they will find it much more profitable. They will require less land, less servaiLs, less horses and mules, less agricultural impiemenls, if they purchase the right kind, and will make belter crops, vvith less labor, and far more satisfaction to themselves. Another great evil we have considered here- tofore in our plan of cultivation, which we are happy to notice is becoming somewhat improv- ed, was that of depending too much upon the cultivation ot one single article - that of cotton. Our observation has taught us that the most successful, thrif y planter, is one who diversi- fies his crop — who raises his own corn, his own sugar, his own beef and bacon, and vvho manu- factures the nece.ssary wearing apparel for his servants at home, upon his plantation. Find ns such a planter, and we pronounce him a thriftv planter. He is making money. His cotton is nearly a clear gain to him, at least he has but few expenses to be paid out ot the mo- ney he receives for it. To him the price of cot- ton cannot matter, as it does to one who depends upon one or two articles to pitrclase subsistence for nim?e!f and his servants. THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. But there are other crops which might be cultivated to profit, il intermixed properly with the cotton crop. Tobacco, the long staple cot- ton, the cultivation ol Bear Grass, from which a hemp can be procured perhaps nearly equal to the Sisal hemp, some of which we have seen, and are informed it is easily produced, and can- not tail to be profitable. These, with others we may hereafter name, all or any of them can be successfully cultivated. We have thrown out these remarks for the consideration of our friends. Having recently become a State, it devolves upon our citizens to aid in developing our resources. Unless we think upon these things we shall never practice them — unless we practice them we shall never succeed. Agricultural Societies should be insti- tuted in every county in the State, regular meet- ings should be held, and the experience ol plan- ters, the success of different crops, and different modes of culture, should be made known to the communit}'^ Appropriate Mauure. The following remarks, which we find in the Albany Cultivator, have their oiigin in prac- tice. The results obtained, and the sugges- tions, are in accordance with scientific experi- ments : With too manj farmers it seems to be the aim to make and apply manure, not stopping to inquire how it can best be applied. Green and rotted, composted and clear, it is too often ap- plied, indiscriminately to all kinds of soil, when or where convenience or custom may di- rect. There can be no question that long ma- nure is best alapted to hoed crops, and well rotted compost for top dressing. But the prin- ciple to which I would particularly invite at- tention, is that given by the Creator of Adam, and legible in all nature’s works, viz : that seed produces seed alter its kind; in other words, that like produces like. Look upon the stately trees of the forest. How have they attained their great dimensions'! Who has been their cultlvator, and what the mode of their cultiva- tion'? He, who does all things well is their culturist, and their food the decayed leaves and branches that are annually deposited at their roots. Man has been slow in learning the simple principle from the Great Teacher. It is but a recent thing that the vine dressers of France have discovered that the prunings form I he best manure for the vines. It has lotig been observed that hog manure is exceedinelv well adapted for a crop of corn. Does not the fact that hogs are generally fatted upon corn, fur- nish the reason of its adaptation? An experi- ment of a good farmer in this vicinity, bears di- rectly upon this principle. Cutting the lops of corn for fodder, he places the bol'om stalks be- tween the row.s, and upon these stalks he turns back furrows; without further manuring or plowing, he plants his corn, and his crops are above the average of those in the neighborhood. A similar experiment with potatoes has proved that the tops weil covered at the time of digging, will furnish sufficient manure to ensure an equally good crop the .succeeding year. Onions it is well known succeed best when sowed on the same ground >ear after year. Ls not the ra- tionale found in the factihat the tops are always left on the gi-ound? Rye has been known to grow on the sam? land for a course ol years, with undiminished yield, with no other manure t lan is furnished by the stubble plowed in. Chip manure is universally recommended for promo- ting the growth ol young fruit trees. The wherelore is found in the simple principle we lav down, that like produces like. Nature has furnished all seeds with nutriment in themselves best adaptr-d for the luinre plant. Who can . doubt but that the pulp ol the apple was design- ed aslood f ir the seed as well as to gr.atify man’s appetite? The blade of wheat and the sprout of the potato, as they first shoot forth, feed solely upon the parent stock. The principle we have thus briefly illustra- ted and endeavored to prove, has important po- litical inferences. 11 the principle is true, no top-dressing can be better adapted for grass than theaflermath left to decay on the ground. The manure from stock led on hay should also be applied to grass lands, while that derived from grain should be applied to farinaceous crops. — It is not necessary to carry these inlerences lurther. They will suggest themselves to all readers of reflection. Lee, Sept. 15, 1845. Berkshire. COUTEl^iTS OF THIS HUMBER. ORIGINAL PAPERS. Anonymous Writers page 46 Agricultural Society of iiurUe county — List of Premiums “ 47 Anniversary Oration, delivered before the Burke County Central Agricultural Society, by M. C. M. Hammond “ ok Editorials. — Agriculture, Aid to “ 43 American Ingenuity “ 43 Cow-ology “ 40 Domestic Wine “ 42 Efficient Support “ 40 Horses “ 41 Memphis Convention, the late “ 42 Notice to Contributors 40 Ornamental Trees “ 41 Potatoes and Ground Nuts “ 40 Southern Independence “ 41 Sumach ‘‘ 41 Useful Measures. “ 41 Weather, the “ 42 Fencing — A substitute for “ 46 Fencing — Rules for making rail Fences “ 46 Measures, Millet, Meal and Corn “ 46 Nankin Cotton “ 46 Slaves, management of. “ 43 Southern Independence “ 45 Subsoiling, experiment in “ 45 Subsoil Plowing “ 45 SELECTIONS, EXTRACTS, &C. Agriculture “ 38 Agricultural Society, Leon county, Fla “• 47 AgricuUuraMmplements “ 47 ualcndar for March “ 37 Georgia Clay. ... “ 36 Hay and Fodder Crops “ 39 l.ittle Things “ 35 Manure, appropriate “ 48 Model Farm of Ohio, the “ 38 Practical Agriculture, to the Young Farmers of Maryland, on “ 35 Purchasing Butler “ 37 Plows and other Farm Tools “ 39 To make Poor Old Land Good, and the Good Better “ 36 |33= Volumes 1, 2 and 3 of the “ Sovthebn Culti- vator,” can be supplied to those who want. The back numbers of present volume are sent to all Subscribers. PROSPECTUS OF THE FOURTH VOLUME OF THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR, A MONTHLY JOURNAL, Devoted to the Improvement of Southern Agriculture, Editeil by JAMIdS CAMAK, of Atlietis. In submitting to the Southern Public the Pro- spectus for the Fourth Volume of the SOUTH- ERN CULTIVATOR, which may now be re- garded as permanently established, the Publish- ers deem it unnecessary to advert to the high character the Work has attained under the edito- rial control ol Mr. CAMAK, and therefore make a direct appeal to the Planters and Friends of .Agriculture throughout the Southern States, to ail them in sustaining a publication devoted e.x- clusively to the cause of Southern Agriculture The advantages and benefits resulting from Agricultural Periodicals, have been felt and ac knowledged oy the intelligent and reflecting Til- .ers of the Soil in all civilized nations; to be most useful, therefore, they sliould be e.xtensive- iy circulated among all classes of Agriculturists ; if possible, they should be in the hands of every man who tills an acre of land, and to this end we Invoke the aid of every one wlio feels an in- terest in the improvement of the Agriculture of the South. The first number of the Fourth Vi>!ume will be issued on the 1 si of January next. It is pub- lished Monthly, in Q.uarto form ; each number contains sixteen pages of matter, 9 by 12 inches square. TERMS : One COPY, one year ®1.G0 Six copies ‘‘ “ -5.00 Twenty- Five copies, one year 20.00 One Hundred “ ” “ ••••'•75 00 The Cash System vtill be rigidly enforced. The CASH must always accompany the order. J. W. & W. S. -JONES. Augusta, Ga., Nov., 1845. As we desire to regulate our issue by the number of subscribers, all persons who obtain subscribers are requested to send the lists as ear- ly as possible to J. W. & W. S. Jones. NEW YORK AGRICULTJJRAt, WASSEKOUSE. Having Taken the commodious Store, No. 187 Water-street, the subscriber is now opening the Largest and most complete assortment of Agricultural Implements of all kinds, ever yet offered in this market. Most of these are of new and highly improved pattern, warrant- ed to be made of the best materials, put together in the strongest manner, of a very superior finish, and ofi'er- ed at the lowest cash prices. SEEDS FOR THE FARMER. Such as Improved Winter and Spring Wheat, Rye, Barley, Oats, Corn, Beans, Peas, Rutabaga, Turnip, Cabbage, Beet. Carrot, Parsnip, Clover and Grass- seeds, improved varieties of Potatoes. WIRE-CLOTHS AND SIEVES. Different kinds and sizes constantly on hand. FERTILIZERS. Peruvian and African Guano, Pondrette, Bonedust, Lime, Plaster of Pans, &c. FRUIT AND ORNAMENTAL TREES AND SHRUBS. Oiders taken for these, and executed from a choice of the best Nurseries, Gardens, and Corservalories in the United Stales. HORSES, CATTLE, SHEEP, SWINE AND POULTRY. Orders executed for stock of all kinds, to the best advantage The subscriber requests samples sent to him of any new or improved Implements, Seeds, &c., &c., which, if found valuable, extra pains will be taken to bring them before the public. A. B. ALLEN, 2 187 Water-street, New York. GAK2?EiV AM® FfEE® SEEDS. A GENERAL assortment of Iresh and genu- ine Garden and Field Seed, among which are the following : Red and white clover. Blue anfl green grass. Rye and orchard do Timothy and herds do Millet and Lucerne do Seed corn of every valua- Buckwheat & potato oats, Seed wheat, [ble variety Kept constantly on hand by the subscriber, all o which are offered for sale at very moderate prices. All oiders, by mail or otherwise, executed with neat ness and despatch. Wm Haines, Jr., 1 No. 232, Broad-slreel, Augusta, Ga. fresh Turnep Seed, just received, viz ; Yellow Sweedish or rutabaga, very fine for stock. Large globe turnep, 1 _ “ White flat do rThl®’’ “ Hanover or white ruta baga do [ table “ Norfolk do J use. For sale in quantities to suit purchases 1 Wm. Baines, Jr., Broad-st. A BLiMMOTH WEEKLY FAMILY NEWSPAPER FOR TWO DOLLARS A YEAR H ®l)c tDceUb CIjronidc ^ Sentinel, Tub Largest and Cheapest Family Newspaper in the Southern Stales, 28 by 46 inches, containing 36 col ■ umns. is now published at the low rate of TWO DOL- LARS per annum, in advance. 1 J. W. & W. S. JONES, Proprietors. ®i]c Scntljern OTnltinator Is published on the first of every mo7ith, at Augusta, Ga. J. W.'& W. .S. JONES, PROPRIETORS. EDITED BY JAMES CAMAK, OF ATHENS, GA . TERMS, -ONE DOLLAR A YEAR. 1 copy, one year Si oo I 25 copies, one i/car, . .S20 oo 6 copies, “ 5 00 I too copies, “ .. 75 00 [Alt subscriptions must commence with the volume.] The Cash System will be rigidly adhered to. and in no case will the paper be sent unless the money accompanies the order. Advertisements pertainingto Agriculture, will be in- serted for ONE DOLLAR for every square of ten lines or less, for the first insertion, and seventy-five cents per square for each continuance. a3=A[,L C )-M.MU-N’IC.\.riO.N3, MUST BE POST PAID, and aLUasiil to JA.MSS CAJI.VK, Athens, Georgia. AUGUSTA, GA., APRIL, 1846. No. 4. orj.iTiOX, JEtM'.vered before the Burke Ccninly Central Agricultural ■ ■ So:iety^J.inu uy ii. 1S46. BY M. C. M. HAilMOMD.— [CONCLUDED] FfOiii a- faithful proseuu'ion of the general . plan I hage sketched, would soon flow innu- inerahle advantages of me highest 'value ; amoae the most important oi which, would te the promotion of health, the choicest blessing ot lilCj and the consequent increased happiness and value ol our slaves. The necessity of Ab- sentesism, toe chief obstacle to our progress, if it could thus be reutoved, would lead to every solid and lasting irnprovemeat. Livingperma- neati v on, our 'places, we wmuld feel deeper in- terest in our pursuit, andreiy more on ourselves and less on our agents. The war h and con- tentment of our pen: le, who perfirm cheerfully • under the eves of their dpyners more than they, can be made to do tor others, would be enhanc- ed; and, instead ol devoting all our eneigies to the worship of M.irnmon, we would raise all necessaries within gurselves, and having less ' need of mcney, would turn more fully lo the cultivation of the fntellecfual faculties and so- cial afleciions, and the humane chariiies ol lile. Our hole system would be changed. After restoring ourlands and learning, as would soon, be done, tnar, p.jl in ..II, our conJiiion could not be be'ier 'd l.y removal to Texas, or Oregon, or Cal fornia, we would build moreduiable dwell- ings and plantatl'in hous.^s— extend onr orchards — ornament our gardens and yards— and having estabMshed a s.^crhd home for ourselves, our children and tiieir posterity, vvould be permit- ted to enjoy in their realiiy, the tranquil plea- sures anu rural Messinss, which poets and phi- Irsophers of all ages, have assigned to country lile. It may he asked, how is the planter to find time to consummate such a system ol improve- ment as, I Suggest ? Who can carry out the ex- tensive schem' of mailing, manutactnring ipa ■ Durc, s ibsoiling and draining? I answer at once, that time and labor mu.st both beloundfor these things, whatever else may be omitted; and that hands must, withoiu hesitation, be ta- ken dor these pu' po.-es, frotnUiecrop. If a plant- er works l>iit four hands let him give up one, wholly and s dely to them'. It he works one hundred hands, let him apnrnpriate twenty-five. If he -‘an m ike as much with three-tourihs of his force as all enn gather m season, of which I have not a shadow of doubt, since it is esti-. mated, .that in time, one half would do it, he will be doing an infinitely belter business than he does nqw. Let him then devote one-fourth of his labor to the improvement of his soil. His "rop mavbe diminished for the first year; indeed, the effect may be.to decrease it for seve- ral years, umil his system gets daird*}' into ope- rafioD. But in the end, he wiff he directly paid for .ihe.se losses in greatly increased crop's, and doubly and trebly paid, in the permanently en- hanced: vhlue ot hi.s lands.' But this view is imme tiartelv connected with the otlier great question .which I propose to con- sider. Hm are onr crops to be diversified? If to make manure wa pen our hogs and cattle, they most be fed, and to feed them properly ve must 'make far greater, prnvi.sion than we do now. ^ In ihe.s3'stera ot. ehclosrngppastures and artificial grasses' -mmst of coprse be.teft out of consideration. Aithough the foreign grasses, like almost all foreign productions, ha'ye been, and may again be, grown successfully in our genial climate, yet we can better employ our land in the cultivation ol substitutes; and first among ihem, our great product ol Indian Corn. Won- derful as cu.lon is to the external man, and the world, in all its relations of clothing and com- it, is infinitely less so than is this plant to Uome. ecDncmy, the subsistence of man. In the beautiful system of ancient Mythology, the Olive wa.s held sacred to the Goddess of Wis- dom, and other fruits to certainother divinities; witn more propriety might the Bed man have consecrated his incomparable maize to the Great Spirit whom he nvurshippedl Indige- nous to this continent,, unparalleled in vjilue, and of universal use, reaching nearly five hun dred millions of ba.shejs annually in the United Stales, it should he p.oj- excellence, the Natlonal Plant. ■ It is applicable' to a greater variety of nutritive purposes than any piant that grow.s. Its grain supersedes as food the use of all the small grains, including rice, and if man will drink spirituous liquors, which I presume he will do more or less for all time to come, it lurnishes the most wholesome of al- coholic stimulants. Given separately, it is the most strengtheni-ng food for work animals ; and ground in an improved mill with the c .b, or cob and shuck, it is the cheapest, and, as abun- dant experience can tes ity, the healthiest and most nutritious provender that can be us-.-d. Its leaves make our fodder, the .great substimte for hay. Tne stalk contains, at a certain pe- riod'of its growth, a large quantity of saccha- rine juice, arid when properry managed, yields a high perceiuage ot sugar, superior in grann- iation to that dei ived iroin the maple tree, and nearly equal in all respects. to that from the cane. After some experience^' it has been cal-, ciliated in Indiana that an acre ot land which •.vill uroduce 50 bushels of "corn will make from () u 800 lbs.. of syrup, of whicn two-thirds or 5,<'0 lbs. would be sugar and one-third.mQlasse.?. I I Delaware in 1313, a single;acre of corn yield- ed 500 poLindsiof su^ar, 50 gallon's of molasses, and more than 6.000 lbs. ot fodder, all of 'wh eh sold tor -SSG. Here is an opening for our enter- prise. Sugar .will not soon be a drug in ihemar- ket. The advance of civilization increases its consumption, it is becoming a iiecessary all over the world, and wealth and luxury mould it into, a thousand forms fofuse. '^Vhatelse can we plant that will return us S'SG g.ross per acre? Cotton does not ordinarily realize us more than a tenth of this amount, nor will anything that l. am acquainted with make, in the long 'run, so profitable a refuni as sugar. The method of maki'ng it is by no means expensive nordidictih to learn. Ten dollars will suffice fo construct a mill for grirulirig, which will answer all purpo- ses lor a number of seasons,, and donble that amount will provide a boiler that will la.st in- definitely, E.xperience will sqon teach the best way to. manage the stalk and the pr-pper time for .culling, ariul. likewise remove all obst'.icies to success la clarifying the juice, and in grannla tion. The extensive roots ot corn is riot the leasf of its remarkable properties. A single stalk, ffiresenled last ye.ar by Mr. Skinner to' the Na- tional Gallery in Washington, mea.sured p;i es- timate, about 8,000 feet of foots, when it had beej\ grpwingonly two months. This of coursi^ was extraurditiarv, but cum nonly they are greater than those of any other annual plant, and bejmnd competition in enriebingthe ground with carbonaceous matter. Hence we perceive the infinite advantage ot deep or subsoil plow- in.g, to give facility to the rods to descend and diverge; and like'vise how important we might render corn, in the renovation ot our lands. Sown broadcast after deep breaking, and turn- ed under when in tassel, it would be an ample coat of manure for a fair growth of cotton, wheat or any other crop. This product may, however, be applied as food for animals, in a mode not in use among us at all, which is destined to contribute largely towards subsisting cur slock, at least ; and witn the cob and corn meal, to supersede almost en- tirely all oiher provender. When sown -or drilled and cut bef ire in.jhe silk, and cured with stalk, leaves and shoots, ii lurnishes a loo'iier, fattening and grateful nvt only to cattle, but fo horses, mnles, sheep and hogs. It will answer the purpose of corn avd lodiier both, andii fir.st ■submitmd to the cutting knife, would be all consurned. A piece of land in South Carolina BOWD last year with three bushels of seed to ilie acre, returned at the rate per acre of 27,000 lbs, of well cure [ forage, if we will manure hea- ■ vily, anP drill the seed to enable us to work it •once or twice, we can e.xceed even this amount. Thus a very few acres would supply all our stock the year round. T. itb such ab'undance of provender at so' small an oufla}' cf manure and labor as this source, with others to be mentioned hereafter, Xv'outd supply, we coul.l profitably consume c un on our plantations far more extensively than we do now. We could rear all the im- proved stick fonh'd valuable- to us — manufac- ture any quanaity ot manure, and supply our- selves amply with meat, so sure an indicaiion of prosperity w'hf>re abundantly raised. Al- ' hough we miglit not find a market for any large quamityoi com iiself, yet I i-.e general and en- !a ged culture of it would confer upon ouro'.m, as'vvell as it is wii-h other People, the signal blessingof reducing to the lowest price the “siafi of IHe;” while by feeding it a way-bountitully, we could sell it indirectly at a fair value in beef, poik, bacon and butter. For these articles, we should fiiid fora long lime ready sale at borne, and at first even for out corn; for corn is ship- red to .South Carolina and Georgia in large quantitie.s, from other State.s. Our butter is chiefl'/ imponed from the North, and all our cheese. Gur bacon comes from Cincinnati by way ot New Orleans, and our pork is driven over the mou'niaius. But ample as it might be f u' cur day, we would not be restricted to the home market. By reference to our National statistics will be seen the immense export of all these ar ides,. and the reasonable price they •ev'ery wherecrimrnand. The whole world would be open to our comretitiori, arid while consu- mers are multiplying over the globe, and we possessed the advantage of cheap transporta- tion to the seaports, we could at least fare as well as others engaged in this trade. Consulering- ihe inestimable value of Indian Corn, I am inclined to think itour true policy — andone which will ere longbe forced on us, whe- ther we will or not — lo make it at once our main crop, and to hold all others, especially cotton, subordinate to it. For this reason, we should ' now direcLonr attention seriou.sly to stud^'ing 50 the southern CUI.TIVATOR. i's character, and improyin«? its cullivatiur as well as its use. Making with ease a sudicien- cy for existing wants, we have been hereUdore culpably nesligeni in its cultivation. .There must be some radical delect to occasion the marked contrast in its production here and in the North, Our climate it is said is too hot lor its net led growth. True as this may be to some extent, it is probable also that our ullage is not adapted to the climate. Uur soil can be strengthened, and if the heatol otir sun cannot be mitigated directly, its worst eflects u.ay be evaded'by skilllul management. A hiindied bushels ol corn to the acre has been avciaged repeatedly on good sized hekls ol native land 'at the North, while we rarely ^^^her over fi teen bushels, and on our unmanured, from eight to ten is a lair yield. Their most enriched acre, in the gravelly soil of Connecn- cut too, turned out in 1844. 151 bushels; and laolher in New York produced some years ago 174 bushels ; and a ten acre lot in Ohio avera- ged per acre 193 bushels— while we have reach- fKtainly only 89 bushels in this State, and last year 113 bushels in North Carolina, and I have good reason to believe that Il3 have been made ©n Savannah river bottom. Still, this result is not discouraging. It show.s tne closer planting and manuring; and as a thou- sand acres may be brought to the same produc- tive capacity as one, it proves also, that we ca7i do much better than we are doms- It is far easier to enrich and till one acre with such effect, than to work ten after our present fashion. Tie land would improve yearly ; the laborers would perform their tasks with more cheerfulness and ease, and in housing t be pro- duce. our satislaciion would be incomparably greater. Supplying annually abundant nutri Sphere Mould be no need ol fallow ng. De Candolle’s theory ot roots excreting substances hurtlul to their repeated growth on tne same soil, existing only in conjecture the r.uation system might be abandoned. could be selected and corn perpetually n, each year increasing its produce over the last, until thes..il attained what is unknown yet, its maximum productive ability. But our common culture I lear has its evik , and with the hot sun, must share the r^ponsi- bility of failure. Perhaps we ^ our corn too late in the season, and ib^s cu th* roots at the critical periods ol tasseling or shooting. We ma v plant too wide J ^ stronger lands pariicitlarlv, and lose the ben cS ol shading the soil, which checks ^e growth of grass and pi otects the roo _ . should break the land deep j,. roots will not spread so much it ^bey can scend, and will be less apt to be ^t vv. 11 gather more nutriment when manured b'jl, an^ suffer less in a dry season, provided the sur- fice has strength to impel them to the e ay sab soil where moisture is perpetral. We shouia plant early, since it always increases the grain, and it is equally imporianlto gather as eailv as h can be preserved, lor here likewise the g am isau<'menled. In short, by carelul expenmen and judicious reflection, I have no d^^bt any i 1 effects of climate may he overcome, and this inJa uable plant grown in its utmost perlection on our soil and under our sun; aJid corn alone sold in Ike srain, or mnnvfachu ed into Zoar or fed away and sold m meat, every Planter will soon as nil should do an in- tadSurulelopay all kis planlation and family '■''K we have other products to aid in subsist- inlSur peoXand mU, «tuch hava a„rac,ed our attention to some extenj, y V and sS are' well"dLTied"o Sl.l)00 bShe°s “f Mba This i.s equal to ihe highest produce in England, where ire an important crop, and its amount greatlv increased by spade cultivation, "^bich is proved !o be the bek Twenty years ago, 5 to 600 bu- shels to the acre was counted an immense yield there whereas 15 to 1800 bushels per acre is by no meins uncommon now. By adding lo the ordinary mode of cow ^ neat or dried mud saturated with the drip pin^/s of thHlable and 20 or 30 bushe s per aerSot pounded bone-s, I am convinced that we can equal in amount oi turnips a^y^bing on re- cord.^ Bones have indeed become-so b'gbly ap meciated, that in the German States, a tarifl is hnposedontheirexportation. Iv of lime and phosphoric acid, they a e valua- We likewise tor corn and cotton, but the supply is too limited to make it more than an object to collect and pound or grind them for our unnips The Jerusalem Artichoke is also capital lood for cattle, but especially lor hogs. It is planted and cul'ivated precisely like corn, and in good and ocn 500 m 1.000 bushels ot tubers per acre is not unusual. The leaves make equa.ly as good Ibdder as those of corn, and abdut a. abundant, and the stalks likewise are as good absorbents lor our compost heaps. It has been asserted that a single acre ol them ^'®b lood lor twenty hogs for lour months. Like corn and iheiorpea, U would be highly uselul in re- storing land.^and being easily destroyed with the plow, would never become troublesome lo other ^"^The Sweet Potatoe is too generally planted, to do more than allude to it as excellen food for our negroes as well as our stock. It is one- fourth as nutritious as meat iiselt, or three lbs. are equal to 12 ounces of bread, and 5 ounces of meat. Itctriainly merits more extensive ^“whearand Rice might be consumption, and when over supplied at home there are Foreign markets Lr them both, whirh are Lvcrglulled. Ourheavy loamsand strong r>lav lands would yield fair crops ol wheat. Sev^enty bushels nave been gathered from an arre, and 56 bushels averaged cn Eno-land; and an extraordinary yield on a small Su properly prepared and drilled at intervals six inches, aiiained the enoimous amount of S-liO huhel, pro P“ bushels have been cut Irom an acre in N. Ytik, eS from an acre in Ohio, and (ilbusheds have been averaged on large fields; and n isbtlieved at the North that drilling and judicious culture wi l turn out on good land in this country 100 bushels to the acre. As with respect to Ind an Corn we are far behindthe.se results; but when we turn our attention strictly to wheal, 1 see no reason why we shouhi not avera e production of any other region. Onr climate cannot be an ob'^iacle, since in warmer (onn- iries in olden lime, in Egypt, ly immense drops of it were made, and ihe tben k^nown world was mainly supplied from the. e s,mme.s, in tie periods of their respective pros- ''^Floiir is imported very considerably into this State. The entire wheat crop ot ^^orgia for 1844 was little over a million >f bushe b i < oeneral crop of near one hundred m'' 'o"*- keie is an ample market lor us, and could ue by porsibmty over-supply it, England would cLsume the^surpliis at a compensating price. Her deficiency of crop last year was esinnated variously at lU twenty five to fifty mdltons o bushels, and her p pulation incrjs n las'e than the ahility of her land to leed thern. and Imr com laws^ being soon to be repealed, she will always offer a good market for fltmr. Our Southern flour, loo.' is the richest in the world Anaivsis has proved that the flour made in this country is eight to ttri per cent richer in the es- semial principle of gluten 'ban any made in Europe, ^and the farther South it has been ed amonsr us the richer is the wheat. Ri"; it is said, willgrow wherevercorn w, 1 and it’ is remarked also, that our up-coun ry rice is larger grained, whiter. «nd mote nu.r - tioiis than that in the tide-water reg.om Plant ed ir our richer drained land, it dii- faircrop and although the grass would be dii ficullto^kill without flooding, still 'be culuva- S would well repay us the labor expended. Its consumption is increasing evei ywl, ere and its great productive regit nsare mainly conhned, at least in America, lo the low c uniry ol Ca - olina and Georgia. tnm- Some ot our planters are already wisely urn ing their attention to Tobacco. 1 Ins v ^^d, m hile bilieily leviled by many, is yet esteemed b\ a large majority of th. se v ho have access to it as one of Heaven’schoicesi giltsto man. 1 o mil- lions it is a comlort, lor which nothing can be l"bs,i.u«araiively a high price. It isdiscredi'abletoany planter lo buy hi.-^ tobacco, and in a lew years it will so be universally con- sidered. We can readily giovv it to an extent beyond our own demand. Three to lour hiinded dollars have been realized in a season m EU'rufa irom a single acre in tobacco, b"' Jb^ Ibis could be made here we would be lully .at i-fied. Eight hundred i minds have beet; ga- thered from an acre in this State, and if it weie from the Cuba seed, and it is true that ^ will make a thousand cigar.s, this vicld wou d. nroduce 100,000 cigars; tliese, if sold tor only 25 c'^nis per hundred, would bi ingihe handsome ^nount of S250 This crop is so -^b.aust.ij l.i land as to abstract in the lair pioduce ot an acre, as much as 170 poundsof minetal rnaitei vet reasonable succes.s compaied with the cal- culations made, wc>uld anthoiizea l< ige exft ditare of manure and labor in , Indigo, an extir.ct staple, might le revived and grown again lo sonieextent. It c< ti manos from 30 to 50 ccnis a ® f land will produce about 5(.0 we+ght. I wild among us, and the weed i f mis wild phin. is better than ihaftrom impoiled se. c , ^b< wing the perlecl adaptation to luf t ur climate ^nd soih Some trouble and ext ense ate if quiied in its preparation, but they would be tully com- ^^^Madder, likewise, would well repay the labor of cultivation. It has been into Ohio with great success, whe e t ts a^cer tamed that strong smls will > f.i n iw o to three thousand m umds ot it per acre. It eel s lor 15 cenisa lb. Thisdemands a.sosi n.eskill and much care in its culture and preparation, but un- der the system of Agriculture I suggest, ski I and eare. now so wholly wanimg m our operations, will soon b^buiu anl.y and ha- bitnally applied to every kind ol c op. Both mese dve-sinfls ate extensively need in^he lac- lories at the North and all over the woild, and il rnanulacluring continues to "'cmase ere hke* wise, as 1 think it cetiamly a htnie mar ket would be opened lor them, vhich, at lea.t, we should etuleavc r lo sni ply. I mould hesitate to recommend any Planter, entirely unacquaiTiud with the business, to in- vest largely in the cotton snrini>ing up in our region, and least ot all, to under'lake himself to d.iect one; but tmques- liunablv it is our interest to encourage tfipin by all the means we can properly use. Such ?*?■"'- ers however and other citizens as have risked ^11,1 are now risking themselves in these, to us, somewhat novel enterprises, and the stfr.ngers come among us lorthe sarr.e pm. pose are entitled to our highest gratitude lor their enterprise and patriotism, from winch, m g.'ou Sson we cannot tail to reap steal advamages. 'in lime they will becoiiie safe derosiiories lor o"; suTluI funds, and uur ^■biUlren may be S;stimerVnmUr:i;'orcu^^^ LoVelam P.cduction; will introouce ot give ' me to capital among us, and set us the best ex- amples t.l industry, skill, care and economy, m r,rrr";7;qi.v,!;i;;:em.H.„ev»',poong ’°Z"l:/r"t/aSorraralacluree,uMlyap. THE SOUTHERX CULTIVATOR. 51 propriate to us as that oi cotton woe 1, and I am not sure that it would not be as profitable. Accuin- ulatin? an abundant supr-ly cf manure Irom the means I have sugge.sted, we might appropriate our cotton seed to a better purpose. Invalua- ble as they have hereiotore proved as manure, we shoulddispense « ith them in view of a high- er economy. A valuable oil may be expressed Irom them, which burns, when fully refined, as well, it is said, as sperm oil. It has double the strength of light from coal gas, and makes also a good oil for paint. Besides, a cake results from Its manulaclure of great use in feeding milch cows, and fully as good as that from rape seed so celebrated in Europe. A bushel of seed weighing30 pounds gives over two quarts of oil and more than twelve pounds of oil cake. The crop of Georgia for 1844 was estimated by j\Ir. Ellsworth, Commissioner ol Patents, at 532,000 bales ol cotton, though in reality it turned out less : Counting 25 bushelsof seed per bale, after deducting five bushels for planting purposes, it would have yielded more than thir- teen million bushels of seed, which would have expressed over .seven million gallons of oil, and have (urnished about one hundred and sixty milli m pounds of oO cake. Valuing the oil at only 50 cents a gallon, (and we pay twice ihat sum now for an interior article,) would give over tliree and a half millions ol dollars; and estiinatine the cake at only 1 cent a pound, w’ould sive over one and a half million more, in all, more than five millions of dollars ! By converting our cotton seed into marketable ma- terials, we would by this calculation add about ten dollars to the value of each bale ot cotton ! This is an i nportani consideration and merits our deliberate atieniio.''. This diversilving of our Agricultural opera- tions, which I .have endeavored to_show may be readily and profitably efiected, and which, in time, must inevitably be done, would curtail the amount of coton planted to so much as we could make clear of all expense.s, and in mos' cases reduce it even lower. However little that amount when exch.anged for money might ap- peal, I suspect that it woukt be 'nore than most Planters make clear now. Vet. il oue soils were hishly improved, although the culture were reduced two-thirds in ihe quantity ot land, it is very probab'e tha as much cotion mieht be gathered as is now done. Dr. Cloud, whose sy.siem ol cultivation, so far asthe manuring is concerned, at least, is unquestionably the true one fjr us, declares that ordinary land has been made to yield from 3 toSOOOibs. seed cotton per acre. It, however, the plan were universally adopted, and it.s effect should be to diminish the quantity of cotton, it 'vould enhance its value, and thus the uliimate result would be the same. With this view, could the war which isthreai- ened, it it is declared, continue i or a f'w years only, I have no doubt it would prove in the end, as beneficial to the Southern Planter as it cer- tainly would to the ^Northern manufacturer and the VVesiern farmer. However calamitous it might he to the commercial interests, and per- haps to the .seaport cities and the coast planters, yet by reducing our staple to a price at which we could not grow it, would force us generally, and at onoe, to abandon iis cultivation for Fo- reign markets, and to adopt substantially, the very scheme that 1 recommend. Temporary losses would of course follow, but we would soon raise our own provisions, and indeed com- pete in the common markets with other regions in supply ing all the necessaries ot life — would manufacture for ourselves wiiatever was prac- ticable amd profitable, and bring into immediate practice all the rules of household and planta- tion economy. A '•hori period would serve to confirm this diversion from cotton planting, and the demand for it again on the return of peace, would probably recall us to only so much of its cultivation as we ?ould attend independent- ly of our more i.nnortant productions. ' In connection wiih the restaralion of land and the changes ot cultivation, it is important like- wise, to improve our implements of labor’ Among these, from the earliest times, the Plow has been the great instrument in agriculture. For hundreds ol years it underwent little or no change, and though greatly altered in .size and form, and much varied in its modes of use with- in half a century past, and even modified in the last fev/ years, still it is no doubt susceptible of farther improvement. As we cannot supersede by steam or otherwise the use of animal po wer in plowing, the source of greatest expense to the staple planter, the grand dpsideiatum is to I perform the most effective and the largest I amount of work, with the least exertion ot it. j Thus have been introduced the sweep, and for deeper plowing the halt shovel or turn plow, constructed with mathematical accuracy; and upon this fundamental principle must be based all useful alterations and inventions ot the plow. It may not be inappropriate to allude here lo our communications to market. For a long time to come, it is feared, that our enterprise will prove insufficient, to consiruct a Railroad from the 80 mile station to Augusta. Wagon transportation, to which we must continue ne- cessarily lo resort, is highly expensive. Every bale of cotton, and other produce in proportion, thus conveyed to Augusta from this part of the County, costs at least ime dolla.’’. It is a lii le less tothe Pvailroad, and something cheaperslill to the river. But the larger part of this outlay might be leadily saved to us. Briar Creek, which has been partially cleared out once al- ready, could be rendered navigable for pole b lats, at least as high as R.av’s Bridge. A Com pa D}', or. condition of removing i he oOsiruc- tions, wmiild find liitle difficulty in obiaining from the Legislainre the privilege of exclusive navigation tor a series of years; and a few thousand dollars judiciou.sly applied by them, which would be tenfold repaid, would tnas af- ford us a safe an I cheap ouilei to market fiTall I our produce, and enabla us to receive our sup- plies direct Irom the seaports, at the cheapest rates. It would even be preferable to a Rail- road, since ours would be “way freight” and be liable to cominual neglect, and all the charges w'ould be higher, and only counterba- lanced by the single advantage of speedier transportation. Its tendenev too would be to rebuild and enlarge our County town, to keep much of our money in circulation among our- selves, and confer benefits which would be lek througliout ihe couniry. But I have done. I have trespassed long on your attention. The magnitude and inappre- ciable importance of the subject, excuse, if they cannot justify me. We have a great work j before us. The welfare and happiness of our- selves, of our children, and of our Country, rest upon the exertions we are at 'his crisis, called on lo make. What higher motives can ad- dress themselves to man, to stimulate him to collecting information —to deep reflection — to decisive judgment — to bold and vigorf)us action? ll they fail to do it for us our late is sealed, and the same Historic page nhich depicts it. will record that we were not. worthy of a belter, I But, Gentlemen, lam fulf of hope. I know too well the noble character of Southern Planters to despond. 1 perceive already the right spirit at work among us, and I look forveard with san- guine expectation and cheerlul faith, to see, at no distant day, our broad lands renovated and our Gounirv rescued by the virtue and intelli- gence, the indomitable courage, and persevering energy of her S- ns. ^ Simple IMethod of F'lLrEiiixG. — The waters of the ’•Vangho and Yang-tse-kiang, in China, are highly surcharged with mud, the former containing one-seventeenth part, and the latter one ninety-sixth of earth. This renders them both- unpleasant and un-vhclesome to drink. Cunningham, the writer, informs us thar the Chi.nese have adopted a very simple remedy for this evil, which it behooves any one who may cliance to visit muddy streams, to remember- Irl to about a quart of water they throw a small pinch of alum, leaving it to stand a few minutes; it becomes as e'ear as crystal, a- considerable sediment being found at the bottom, The poor- est fisherman is always provided with a small portion for this necessary purpose. A(;KICL L,TirKAI. ADDRESS, BY J. P. STETENB. Delivered before ihe Liberty County Agricultural Society, January 17, 1^6. Gentlemen’: — The circumstances which con- vene us at this time are peculiarly interesting. Annually do we meet to commemorate the birth- day of our National Independence, Thie calls upon our charities in the formation of benevo- lent associations for the amelioration of the condition of suffering humanity are responded to with cordial sympathy; any great national scheme is unhesitatingly pursued with avidity and enthusiasm ; but that which concerns us most intimately, which directly affects the per- sonal condition ot each one of us, has, until now, been regarded with a jest or sneer. It is unnecessary for me to enter into a min ale de- tail of the advantages accruing lo society from the pursuit ol Agriculture; far, from its first organization, improvement in the art ol culti- vating the earth have progressed in a direct ra- tio w’iih the advancement of civilizatiwn and enlightenment. Even among seme nations where religion and morality "have withdrawn their influence, and blindness and superstition have veiled the evidences of a future state of accountability, a rem^irkable degree of acumen and sirill is exhibited in gleaning from the soil the necessary demands upon its resources, Il is believed that nine-tenths of the fixed ca- pital of all civilized nations is embarked, and probably two hundred millions of men spend their daily labor, in the prosecution of this art. It is, indeed, th** foundation upon which rests all other pursuits in life. The myriadsof ships that are supported upon the bosom of every ocean— ihe thousands of locomotives that fly upon our Railroads — the thousand millions of human beings who live upon the earth, lean upon agriculture as the fountain and source of iheir being. Man is naturally averse to labor, and so long as he can depend upon nature lor support, his physical and intellectual exertions will be commensurate therewith. We discov- er, then, i.hat m those countries where a virgin soil is rich in fertilizing properties, the system of agriculture is of the rudest acd simplest cha- racter. Ol this nature, we are inforhned, is a vast portion ot the western territories of our own land, where it is frequently necessarv merely to protect the grain from the depreda- tions of animals, and a plentiful harvest is reaped by the planter. In proportion tothe increase of th? popula- tion ol a country will there be a demand upon its agricultural resenirces. Hence we observe, that iti France, Germany and Great Britain, a large number ot ingenious and investigating minds are engaged in rehovaiinjj the energies of a soil worn out by perpetual cillage. Caleu- latii.ns are made by which the maximum amount of grain may be produced upon every acreof ground susceptible of cultivation. The aid of science is called into requisition, and the arijof culture must be proportionally superior. From statistics of a writer* computing the pecuniary value of the productions raised in Great Britain, w’e have the following items : In 1760 the total amount of all kinds of grain produced in England and Wales, was about 120.1100.000 bu.shels. To this should be added 30.000 000 for Scotland, makine a grand total ol 150,000,000 bushels. In 1835, the quaniiiy in both countries could not have been less than 340.000. 000. In 1755, the population did not, if ary, exceed 7.,500,090 in the whole island. la 1831 it had risen to 16,525,180, being an in- crease of 9,000,000 ! Now the improvements in agriculture have more than kept pace with this prodigious demand for its various produc- tions ; for il is agreed that 16,500,000 or rather 17.500.000, for more than a million have been added since 1831, have been much fuller fed, and upon provisions of a far better quality than the 7,500,000 were in 1755. Again, it is esti- mated by British writers of high authority, that the subsistence ot 9,000,000 ot people costs, •‘Hunsphrey’s Foreiga Tour. 52 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. in raw produce, not less than 000,000, or £8 for each individual per annum. According to this estimate, the annual productof this great branch of national industry is S350,00i),000 more than it was in 1755. Now, if it cost $350,000,000 to feed the increased population of 9.000. 000 — to feed the present population of 17,- 500.000, must cost nearly $700,000,000. By consulting another authority of more recent date, we are informed that in 1780 the island of Great Britain contained about 9,000,000 of in- habitants, it now contains nearly 20,000,000. The land has not increased in quantity, but the consumption of food has probably more than doubled. The importation from abroad has not increased to any important extent. By impro- ved management, therefore, the same area has been caused to yield double. The superficial area of Great Britain comprises about 57,000,- 000 of acres, of which 31,000,000 are in culti- vation, about 13,000,000 are incapable of cul- ture, and the remaining ten millions are waste lands susceptible of improvement. The present population, therefore, is supported by the pro- duce of 34,000,000 acres, or every 31 acres raises food for twenty people. Suppose the ten mil- lions susceptible of improvement to be brought into such a state of culture as to maintain an equal proportion, they would raise food lor an additional population of about6.000,000, or sup- ply till the nurrber of its inhabitants reached 26.000. 000.* We have an analogous instance of superior skill, as exhibited in the an of husbandry, among the Chinese. Their agricultural imple- ments are comparatively simple, and although hitherto excluded from intercourse with foreign nations, yet their su perior knowledge of the art of culture has enabled them, upon an area of 1,200.000 acres of Land, to support a population of nearly 300,000,000 of people! Indeed, the progress in the science and practice of agricul- ture has been so great, in recent times, among the older civilized countries, that it has been confidently asserted by a popular writer, that within the next twenty years, Britain will, in all probability, become an exporting zoxinx.x'y . The inquiry naturally presents itself, hoiv have such astonishing results been realized! We reply, the application of scientific prin- ciples in the cultivation of the soil ; in other words, by making Agriculture a source of study and reflection. The farmer, of all other men, is the most deeply rooted in his prejudices. Taught from his earliest infancy to pnrsue a certain system of labor, trained up in the cus- toms and manners of his ancestors, guiding all of his important operations by the different lu- nar phases and meteorological ob.'-ervaiions, which are tohis mind ominous of good or evi,; any suggestions which may have a tendency to invalidate the stability of his faith are received with incredulity and suspicion. Even when ac- tual obsevation and experience have tested their superiority, he is tardy in adopting them and giving due credit to their efficacy. It is al- so true, that while ad other sciences have been fostered by governmental patronage, and the public mind has been educated in them. Agri- culture has been lelt to itself, neglected and de- spised. It is pleasing then to reflect, that as ne- cessity, the most successful opponent of opi- nionative notions, has invoked attention, the veil of Isii which has so long obscured the movements of this branch of industry has been partially removed, and a day has already dawn- ed whose invigorating influence is destined to elevate agriculture among the most certain, useful and popular of the sciences. The most rapacious intellects here find a field for the em- ployment of their noblest faculties. A plant it- self insignificant in appearance, yet in its structure it presents h striking analogy to the very perfection of Divine mechanism. Ls rad- ical extremity imbibing nutriment from the va- rious ingredients of the soil and atmosphere, it is conveyed in the form of sap through the trunk and branches to the leaves, there to un- dergo a process of aeration preparatory to im- parting its nutritious qualities to the plant, and finally that part V hich is no longer adapted to the purposes ot the economy is returned to the soil in the form of effete, or excrementitious matter. In the functions of the leaves we ob- serve a process analogous to that which the lungs perform in animals, namely, that of re- spiration. Here too, we observe in this chemi- cal laboratory, by the decomposition of certain gases, an explanation ot one of the means to which nature resorts, in the animal and vege- table kingdoms, fur maintaining a due supply of healthy atmospheric air. We are awmre that the air which we breathe is composed ot defi- nite proportions of oxygen and nitrogen gases, and a trace of carbonic acid gas. In the pro- cess of animal respiration, oxygen gas is ab- sorbed, as a certain portion of it is necessary to the support of animal existence, and carbonic acid gas is evolved, the inhalation of wliich produces instant death. We will readily per- ceive that from the countless numbers of ani- mals upon the lace of the earth, the atmosphere would soon become irrespirable from the pre- dominance of this deleterious agent, was there not a counterbalancing influence. But mark the munificence and providence of nature. Plants absorb carbonic acid and evolve oxvgen gas. That noxious agent, one atom of which if inspired into the lungs of at imals, uoiild produce immediate dissolution, is expended in imparting health, vigor and strengih to the whole vegetable world. Here, then, we cannot look with contempt upon the smallest twig or tenderest leaflet that dances in the breeze, fur truly we are measurably dependent upon it for the blithesome countenance and elastic step of health and happiness. This property of p'ants receiving nourishment from the atmosphere is a wise pn-visisn ot nature, r.nd it is ihe only rational method by which we are enabled to ac- count for the manner in which vegetation was originally supported, for veseiable mould, called by some humus, is the product of the decay of vegetable matter in the form of leaves, stems, &c. : and there havin.g l ecn no anterior provision or this kind, we are led to inler that the original plants must have been supplied with e.xtensive lealy expan.sions, receiving their nourishment chitfiy Ir Jin the air, and deniand- ing but a limited supply frrim ifie soil. By arriving at the conditions nece.s.sary for the development of plants, investigating the difiereni ingredients in the soil which are ap- propriated to the formation of certain poitions of the same plant, and becoming ac-^uainted with tho.se general physiological laws which operate in maintaining a healthy growth, has the art ot culture of the present clay attained its superiority. We must proceed in the rearing of plants upon a similar principle to that which we observe in our treattnent of inferior ani- mals when we wisfi to ontain a definite object. By pursuing a certain .system of legimen we have a development of the muscular tissue ; by a different course of treatment vve have a piedo- niinance of fatty matter. So with plants; be- sides heat, light, moisture, and the component parts of the atmosphere, there are certain sub- stances which exet a specific influence upcm distinct j;enera, and even upon separate portions of the same plant. Some require a predomi- nance of the silic-iles to afford .strengtli and du- rability to the stalks; all plants of the grass kind demand a large share of the silicate ol -potash; wheat requires a stilt larger alio wance of potash. One hundred parts of the .stalks of wheat yield 15 per cent, of ashes, while the same quan iiy ol the dry stalks of barley afford but 8, and ot oats only 4 per cent. It is evi- dent, then, that the same soil which would sup- peut but one crop of wheat would bear ihree of oats. In a thousand pounds of the clrv hay of rye grass and clover, we have of the rye R per een*. ol potash at.d 27 of silica; c)l clover, 19 percent, of potash, and 3 of silica. These facts then afford a solution of the reason why oats are found to be so exhausting to lands; on aceount ol the great demand which they make upon a single ingredient in the soil, namely, silica. We are enabled to arrive at these deductions by the aid of chemical analy- sis. And here I may observe, that it is to che- mistry in its application to agrieultuie that we are indebted lor the astonishing results which have followed the labors of the scientific agri- cultuiist. The fertilizing properties of arable land are dependent upon many conditions. Upon its porosity, its ability to retain moisture, as well as upon the various ch<- mical compounds which are essential to the growuh ol plants. Pure sand alone is essentially barren, for aside from its absolute deficiency in nutritive agents, its loose and comparatively reticular consistence renders it unfit to retain a sufficient degree of moisture around the roots of plants. Rain, when it comes in contact with the earth, exerts a solvent agenc'^ upon many of the constituenls of the .'oil, and instead of there being a me- chanical impediment to its transit, causing its invigorating influence to be directly applied to theroois.it permeates more deeply and is hence lost. So, in lime of drought, not only does the riant suffer from defective nutriment, but ihe first relreshing breeze that passes by severs its fragile attachments and prostrates it. Clay alone, presents the opposite difficulty. By its consistence and impermeability to water it retains moisture too long. There is not free ac- cess of air and warmth to the roots, and the plant ag : in perishes. Itis, then, by an union ot the two, clay and sand, in definite propoitions, that we can expect to obtain a so’l mrimaitiing proper consistence to afford mechanical sup- port. as well as a sufficient degree ot porosity for the purposes of watering and ventilation, and having enough of the silicious ingredient to afford strength and durability to tl e st.nlk. Of cour.'e modifications to suit the (ffiniands of dif- ferent plants niav be desired. Thus, clav soils possessing a large proportion of potash, are ge- nera'ly acknowledged to be fetter adanted to the growth rf wheat; a considerable proportion of sand is requisite for barley, and a d(Cideahj san- dy loam lor i ve and oats. Having obtained a .soil, the chemical consti- tuents of which are most tavorafile to the growth ot plants, it is evi'^ent that a proper system of cultivation is absolutely necessary to success. As reasonably might we expect to observe all ihe diversified facii'iies of the human nArd to be possessed in the full vigor of peifeci maturi- ty by the Inoian in his stale cf savage wild'. ess, as to look for a maximum return cf grain upon even a virgin soil unaided iiyihe skillful hand of the husbandr.''an. InOerd, the diffr tent de- grees ol success which characterize the efforts ot agriculturists may be ascribed in a great measure, to the diligence and assidui'y w iih which each employs physical and mechanical means as well as to the lelati ve accuracy of their observations. [CONCI.UDEU IN OUR NEXT.] Potato .Telly. — The potato mav xvith ease he made into a r'ch and nutritious jelly, and the process should be gener: llv known. It is ns fol- lows: Let a couple of good sized, pu.niy pota- to! s bo washed, peejed and grated; tlir. \v the pulp thus procured in a basin of water and srir it well ; let it s’and a few minutes, and a sufTit !• nt qunntdy of stnreh will have fallen for the pur- pose, required ; P'Otr ofi the water, and pour on boiling water, stirring tbe starch tb.e v bile, and it will soon and sudder lv pass to tbe state of jelly. The only nicety required, is to be careful that the water is absolutely boiling otherwise the ciiauge will not lake place. On compaiing this jollv vciih that obtained from Renniida, a difficulty in discrimirnting between the two will be apparent. The diffirencc. however, becomes more obvious on applying su.qar to sweeten the jellies, for then tbesupeiior flavor of the potato jellv is at once perceived, and it is equal, if not siiporior, also to arrow root in its nutritious pro- perties. r.AZiNEss. — I.azin e.«s grows on people: it hegins in cobwebs and ends in iron chains. The more business a man has, the more he is able to accomplish ; (or he learns to economist his lime. ' Johnston’s Agricultural Chemistry. THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 53 Fr<)m the Chirlestoii Mercury. To tlie Planters anti Farmers of South Carolina. . At the late meeting of the State Agricultural Society, the following Resolution was adopted, viz: fnat the Pre>ident be requested to com- municate to the public before the planting sea- son, such information as he may possess, or which it may be in Iris power to collect, in re- lation to toe means of modifying the effects of druugat on injian Corn and other provisions.” It is necessary tor me to premise, that what 1 shall say concerning the use ot the plow is main- ly derivative. From several causes, the plant ers of the Sea Islands are but slightly acquaint- ed, in practice, with the value of that great implement. To give the experience of the highest authorities is, iherc-fore, on my pait, an imperaMve obligation. It is proper also I should in this place observe that, in consequence of assiduous endeavo''s to ■ btaiii lads Irom sup- posed reliable sources, in which 1 have signal- ly lailed, this communication, which would have oeen made at a much earlier period, has been delaved, but not so late, it is hoped, as to be wholly unprofitable. Satisfactorily to elucidate the matter of the Resolution would involve a minute examina- tion of many ol me topics connected with the science of hasbandry. As I am certain, how- ever, it was not designed or intended that my remarks should take so wide a scope, I shall only brielly advert to tiiose princioles and ihei- operation upon which some of the most valua- ble results in husbandry rest. Ail the earths have a considerable attraction for the fluid which- the atmosphere contains. The very best soils possess this power in the highest degree; hence, it may wiih certainty be assumed, that the measure of their I'erliliiy depends chiefly on their capacity to absorb mois- ture. In determining their value, however, on that head, two other properiies have to be noticed — ihequm.tity of water which is essential to their.saiuration, and their power of retaining it. In all these respects, clay and sand occupy an- tagonistic relations. '1 he lormer imbibes ihe aqueo is vapors like a sponge, and pans with them reluctantly; when dry, it constitutes a com- pact mass; Irom the closenessof its texture the disselveni astion of the air is excluded, and pu- trelaclion is retarded. The latter is friable and a sceptic; from Ihe solidity of its particles and their want oj coherence, water filters easily. In the adoption ol expedienis by which to se- cure these earths a supply ol moisture, different processes, in part only, il is advisable to pur- sue. From their predominance in the State, 1 shall direct my attention prominently to clayey or aluminous soils. What then, are the means which reason and experience assure us are Ihe best calculated to attain the end in view? I answer, deep plowing; thorough pulverization ol the soil; abundance of manure; and ihe use of salt and retentive atmospherical absorbents. 1. Deep plowing. The roots of plants should be allowed to extend themselves in every direc- tion. The deeper I he.y } enetrate, and the wider their ramifications, the greater vviil be the ab- sorption of nourishment. The average depth of good soils is about 6 inches. Every inch added increases its value 8 per cent. : so that a soil where the vegetable layer is 12 inchesthick, is worth half as much again as that in which it is only six inches.* It is consequently obvious that whatever, Irom this cause, may be its en- hanced value, if not reached at some time in the progress of cultivation, the remainder is in ef- fect a caput morluuni. By deep plowing the ca- pacity of the whole soil is called lorih. While it enables the earth, through the agency ot air and water, to inhale atmospherical manure, by diminishing the lo'rce of the sun’s rays, it lessens materially its exhalations. Should the substra- tum, which perhaps in every instance contains the principles ol fertility, be broken, still, as a general proposition, the most signal benefits, prospectively, if not immediately, may confi- dently be expected to enure from the operation. Deep plowing insures the greatest product from the smallest given quantity ol land. 11 by the use ot one half of me soil ten bushels ot corn per acre be obtained, if is reasonable to infer, all other circumstances being equal, that were the wh de in tilth, twenty bushels would be har- vested: indeed, a much larger quantity ought to be me result, lor the deeper the. soil the great- er will be ihe number ot stalks, and the larger and more numerous the ears. The Maize, says Taylor, “ is a little tree,” and possessing roots correspondent to its size, penetrates a depth almost inciedible — 9 eet, it is known, have been reached. It follows that where, from Ihe vigor of the plant or the friability of ihe land, me roots meet with no obstruction, the con>equences of drought will be sensibly di- minished, it not entirely prevented. It is be- lieved that the rolling ol the leaves ot corn is aitribntable solely ro the absence of moisture, Tliis is an eiror. Scanty manuring or shallow tillage is as often the true cause. To render deep plowing* efiecmal, it should take place in autumn. The expansive pow'er ot frost, and the mollifying influence of air and rain, and the action ol these in breaking the continuity of fibrous matter, are strong reasons in favor of the practice. Whether it should be done once in two or three years onlyq which, I believe, is the opinion of the most successiul farmers ol Great Britain, or annually, as is common in parts ot our country, is certainly as yet an undetermined point. 2. Pulverization. I he soil must not only be made easily accessible to the descentand spread . ot the roots, but there should be such a disinte- gration of its parts, as to allow the free trans- mi.¥sion of air. However rich in ingredients, these afford no nutriment to vegetation, until subjected to the. combined action of heat, air and moisUrte — the great agents ot decomposi- tion. Unless freely supplied with oxygen, the remains of animals and vegetables do not de- cay, but they undergo putrefaction t “The .frequent renewal of air by plowing and the pre- paration of the soil, change the putrefaction ol the organic constituents into a pure process ol oxidation; and from i he moment at which ail the organic matter existing in a soil enters into a state ol oxidation or decay, its fertility is en- hanced.” In a well compounded soil, wa'er is presented to the roots by capillary attraction. As this increases in proportion to the smallness ot the particles ol earth, the advantage of their complete pulverization is plain It is equally true, that as food lor plants must exist in solu- tion, it is requisite to admit water to the roots by artificially reducing the compactness of ihe soil bv tillage. From Irequent working, there- fore, the most favorable results may be antici- pated; indeed, it has been well observed, that good stirring of the ground in dry weather is equal to ashow'er ol rain; for however strange it may seem, while it promotes moisture, desic- cation is prevented, j^'o aid in the increas.’ and preservation of atmospherical vapor, the ridge system is especially recommended. The breaking up of the old furrows deeply, and mak- ing the new ridges on them, by which the two interchange places, provide a quantity of finely divided earth much greater than what is obtain- ed in the ordinary mode. While the coming up of the corn is thereby facilitated, and the thrifty condition of the young plants secured, the depth at which the seeds of grass and weeds are de- posited, prevents their germination, except in small numbers; hence labor and lime in the cultivation ot the crop are saved. In relation to maize, the author of “Arator” sums up the ad- vantages of high ridges and deep furrows in substance as follows: — The roots are never cut in one direction, and this great depth ol tilth thus early obtained, by superseding the occa- sion for deep plowing in the latter period ol its gr^'wih saves them in the other. The preserva- tion of the roots, and their deeper pasture, ena- ble the corn much longer to resist dry weather. Litter thrown into the deep furrow upon which the list is made, is a reservoir ot moisture, far removed Irom evaporation ; within reach of the roots which will follow it along the furrows,and calculated to feed the plants when in need of rain. The dead earth brought up by the plow from the deep furrow is deposited on each side of It, without hurting the crop on the ridge; further by one deep plowing, received by the corn, alter it is planted, being bestowed upon it whilst it is young, and its roots short, and being run nearly a loot from it, the roots of the corn in this way escape injury, and the effects of drought on the plant being thus lessened, its product is increased. It would appear from this condensed exposi- tion of his views that, in the opinion ot Taylor, one plowing only, and that a deep and early one, the growing crop requires. To clean and pulverize the soil, the harrow, skimmer or culti- vator, alone should be used. Each might ad- vantageously be resorted to in any stage of its growth, but in a parched condition ot the earth their reviviscent tendency would then clearly demand it. With regard to sweet potatoes, the plow may most profitably be employed at any lime. When the shoots begin to wither break up the space between the hills or ridges by running four fur.rows. The newly turned earth will be found wet in the morning, while before no mois- ture had been apparent. In a few days the leaves from being brown or yellow will assume a greenish hue, and new shoots ordinarily may be expected to follow. 3. Manure. The fertility of the soil is the first object to be attained by the farmer. For their dividing properties, all fossil manures are hishly esteemed. Deep plowing and lime, un- aided by organic matter, it is well attested, have renovated lands, that in the judgment of the former proprietors, w'ere not worth the labor of cultivation. In reference to the special matter under consideration, a judicious mixture of soils is of primary importance. Clay applied to sand assists it in retaining manure, and receiv- ing the vaporized water oi the atmosphere. To allow the fibres of plants to shoot freely, clay, sand and liii.e, acting mechanically by their mixture, are mutual manures to each other. Burnt clay may beneficially be substituted for sand. It has already been observed, that pulverized earth has a strong attraction lor atmospheric vapor, and this increases in proportion to the minuteness into which the particles are divided ; but as the power of the most fertile soils, in this respect, is inferior to that of even the worst or- dinary manure, it is evident, that “for the mere purpose of withstanding long continued dry weather, those plants whose roots have imme- diate access to organic manures, will be much better enabled to absorb the necessary supplies ol atmospheric moistui’e, than those merely ve- getating in the unmanured soil;” hence, when- ever fertilizers are employed in anticipation of drought, or to miiigate its evils, in either case, the good to flow from their application to corn, will depend in a high degree upon their abun- dance, and the materials that compose them. The richer the ingredients and larger the quan- tity the more decided will be the benefit. Sup- pose in a propitious season one acre, judicious- ly manured, to yieid 50 busfiels, and five acres ol the same natural, strength, unassisted by art, 10 bushels per acre; experiments and practice prove that in a drought, the lormer will produce generally not five fold, but seven or eight times as much as the latter. 1 may indeed assert, that the difference in product will be commen- surate with the heat and dryness of the weather. Whether manures should be buried deep or shallow, or lie on the surface, and whether they should be spread in a rotted or unrotted state, are questions which the occasion does not re- quire me to investigate. The tendency of de- composing animal and vegetable matter is to rise in the atmosphere ; of fossil manures to sink. As it is known that coarse litter is better 'Thaer. ‘ fchov.t 12 inches. t Liebig. 54 THE SOUTHERN OULTIVAl'OR adapted to corn than any other crop; if employ- ed when putrefaction has commenced, immedi- ately before the period of committing the seed to the ground, or in the fall, in the shape of long muck, to allow the frosts, rain and wind of win- ter, to prepare it lor the putrefactive process, every portion of the decaying and fermenting fertilizer will be gradually absorbed by the roots and leaves of the plants. All the facts that have come to my knowledge sustain conclusive- ly the principles and reasoning 1 have advan- ced. I repeat that very rich ground rarely sof- lers materially the want of water, especially if it has been properly divided and loosened by artificial means. If, therefore, the withering power of drought should at any time show it- self on poor land, let the farmer instantly ap- ply putrescent manure on the surlace of the ridge. To the spreading of compost wiihout burying it over the cereals during the vegeta- tion, the English attribute an almost magical influence. They assert that “the plants may almost be seen to renovate and regain their ver- dure.” It is evjdent, says Thaer, that not only actual advantages, but also security against evil is to be derived from the possession of an active manure of this nature, and wiihout any sensible diminution of its value. Though the quantity may be small, yet the beneficial results first itidicaied in the change of color in the leaves, will soon appear. In the instance of a planter of this place, whose crop was In a peri- lous condition from the excessive dryness of the summer of ’44, one cart load only to the acre of stable manure, partially decomposed, was in- strumental in producing a fine yield, while from the remainder of the field the harvest was very meagre. When the application w'as made, the corn had begun to tassel; the -stalks were small and the leaves yellow and curled. Although the former never increased in size, the latrer soon exhibited a healthy green. This favora- ble indication took place before the first shower of rain, which was slight, and occurred about a fortnight after the trial of the experiment. This secret of my friend’s success is traceable to the fact that, as all fertilizers have a strong attrac- tion for atmospherical moisture, he used the one, which of all others, in that respect, guano excepted, possesses the greatest power. A prominent error in Southern husbandry is over-planting. Manuring, consequently, as a system is not practised. This alone is suffi- cient to account lor the smallness of the aggre- gate crop for the extent of ground annually in tilth. Reformation on this head is therefore loudly demanded. But until this ensue, what is to be donel In what way may the injurious operation of drought be modified, as well by the ignorant as the skilful, the poor and the rich? 4. Salt. In small quantities salt is a septic; in large quantities it resists putrefaction. Though not strictly germane to the subject en- trusted to my charge, I hope I shall be excused for here stating the estimation in which this substance is held by many observant agricultu- rists. It destroys, they maintain, noxious weeds and vermin; gives luxuriance and ver- dure to grass lands-; prevents the scab in (Irish) polatoes; sweetens grass, and hastens the ma- turity of crops. Wheat or barley following turnips on land that had been previously salt- ed, the ensuing crop, it is well authenticated, escaped the mildew. For a top-dressing for grass land, six bushels per acre are recommend- ed; for cleaning the ground preparatory to the putting in of the grain, sixteen bushels, it is aaid, may be employed upon fallows. An ounce of salt to a gallon of water benefits vege- tables ; a larger quantity gives a brown color, and is therefore injurious. As it is a stimu- lant, salt should be mixed with compost, mud, or loamy earth. Its great capacity for inhal ing atmospherical moisture renders it peculiarly valuable in dry and hot weather. For cotton I have used it successfully at the rate of 5 pecks to the acre. Beyond that its effects were ad- verse to the growth and production of the plants. Manure designed for corn, should receive, se- veral weeks before it is put on the land, as ' much salt as will luinish to cveiy acre not ex- ceeding one and a hail bushels. It. however, none of the measures noticed in this communi- cation have been adopted by the larmer, and his crop be suffering from the absence ol rain, let him sprinkle on the ridge of each plant or hill as much well pulverized salt as he can conve- niently take up with the thumb and two lore fin- gers. In a short time the result, from my own experience and that ot some of my co-laborers, will be the same as though the ground had been recently moistened with a moderate shower. How long the benefit will continue I am unpre- pared to state, for after every experiment of my own, rain fell in from ten to filteen days. 1 can only assert that, in the inter/al, the salted por- tion of the field was in every respect much su- perior to the remainder. 5. Organic absorbents. It is not merely ne- cessary that atmospheiic gases should be in- haled by the agents which the vigilant care of the fanner may have provided, but to render his labors and knosvledge more effectual, they must possess the additional merit of retaining them. The atmosphere is the matrix of ma- nures; these however, are so subtle and evan- escent, ihat they quickly escape, unless elabo- rated into permanency by the use of vegeiablos in a hardened term. The valuable propenies of organic matter in a stale of putrefaction, if buried in the earth, are absorbed by plants, and “exactly that portion of manure which is lost by the custom of rotting it before it is ernnloy- ed, becomes the '^arent of a great crop.” *l'he most common and yet the most esteemed re- tentive atmospherical absorbent with which I am acquainted, is the leaves ot the pine.* When mixed with farm yard or stable manure, especially if a little salt has been added, it forms a highly fertilizing compound In attracting and preserving the gases and vapor ol the at- mosphere, lies, however, its great virtue. In a drought, if applied a few inches thick around each ^iill of corn, considerable moisture under the heaps will be seen in tweniy-four hours, and shortly afterwmrds, the field, should the farmer’s operations have been so extensive, will prove the efficacy of this simple experi- ment. At the late session of the Legislature, a member of the Senate informed me, that the last summer he employed pine leaves for his growing crop of polatoes with the happiest re- sults. During the drought he filled the alleys with this material. At the time ot harvest po- tatoes were found on the earth below the trash. Though unable to speak with precision of the difference between this section of his field and that on which no leaves had been placed, yet the product of the one was far greater than that of the other. To determine a question of vege- table re-production, in 1841, near Brest, in France, on a few rods of poor land, untilled, and which received no ulterior attention, grains of wheat were strewed, and then covered with wheat straw about an inch thick. In despite of excessive droughts during (he spring, prolong- ed and several times repealed, while all around was drooping and uncertain, the protected wheat sustained no injury. When the plants matur- ed the straw was found to be more that six feet high, and in the ears were filly, sixty, and even eighty grains of wheat of lull development.” A satisfactory explanation of this experiment, remarks a French writer, is found in straw be- ing a bad conductor of heat, and a good conduc- tor of electricity. The roots consequently were maintained in a medium temperature, and the rnoisture of the earth furnished by the straw la- ciliiated the absorption of carbonic acid from the atmosphere. As pine leaves contain a much greater proportion of nutritive juices, they should always be used, if obtained, in pre- ference to the straw of other trees or any crop. Having already extended this communica- tion to an unreasonable length, I will merely add, that the true and permanent interest of the Oak leaves,” says Thaer, “ are not easily decom- posed, and contain an astringent matter which is high- ly injurious to vegetation as long as the leaf remains ondeconiposed.” agriculturist is to be found in preparing against the vicissitudes of ihe season, and not in weak and uncertain attempts to mitigate their influ- ence. Deep plowin?, loosening effectually the texture of the soil, and a bountiful supply of appropriate aliment, are the surest means for the accomplishment of that purpose. While a parsimonious use of manure is sure to develop slender returns, it promotes slow ly but inevita- bly the deterioration of the land. It is belter, then, to cultivate a few acres to he plow' or la- borer, fuinished abundantly wiT enriching’ ma- terials, than iieble the number w iihout nutri- ment. These trulhs were practically er.foiced in the paimv days of Egyptian agriculture. The Roman hu-bandman was considered bless- ed who owned 7 acres of ground In England 20 or 30 acres constitute a good farm, and in China on one third of that quanti- ty, a large family is well supported. 7 he grass lands in the irnmediaie vicinity o( Edinburgh, rent lor SlOO the acre. In West Cambridge, ivfassachiiseils, manure to the value ol SfOO per acre, is supplied by many of the farmers, and instances are not iinfrequent of ten acres, thus leriilized, yielding in money ^5,000.t To us the full power ol land is unknown ; indeed, no- where has it been as -ertained that there is a li- mit to production. 7'he perii'd perhaps has ar- rived, w’hen not only the advancement of their peruniary welfare, but it may be, the preserva- tion of the domestic institutions ol the South, depends on a radical change in the habits and practices of the tillers ot iissoil. If, in relation to this State, the distressing visitation of the last sumiTier ha ve the effect of f rousing the at- tention of our agriculturists to the necessity of union among themselves, with a view to a free and full interchange of opinion in matters per- taining to their common vocation, they may yet have ample cause to be grateful to a merciful Providence for the calamity with which they have so recently and heavily been afflicted. Whitemarsh B. Seaerook, President State iltgriculiural Society, S. C. t Farmer’s Register. From the London Gardener’s Jeurnal. Poultry. 7’he economy of poultry may be classed un- der three heads, first, in their natural slate, which is the def'artment of the naturalist; se- cond, in their domes'ic state in the country, with a full range of the farm yard and field, in which the poultry-keeper is concerned, for his profit; and third, in their artificial state, in or near towns, in pens or yards, which will chiefly engage my attention in the present article. The best and cheapest method of feeding I must leave to be detailed by those who keep poultry in large quantities. Shelter. — Fow’ls should always be kept in a dry, warm, sheltered situation — a southerly as- pect is to be prelerred — for they enjoy and bene- fit greatly by the “warms in the sun,” as w’ell as requiring protection from its scorching rays, and a secure (storm) shed lor rainy weather. 7’he roosting-house and laying house, if sepa- rate, should communicate, that early layers may have early access to the nests, and also communicate with the storm-shed for the fowls to run in for security, i( they should leave their roosts early in the morning. The nests should be numerous, either in boxes or barrels, not too deep, but roomy, some situated high, some low, and as independent of each other as possible, each supplied with sweet, short and soft straw and a small nest-egg or two ot chalk, the size of a pigeon’s egg. If the nest be too deep they break the eggs in jumping in and out, and if the nests are not roomy, sitting bens have no room to turn easily, and consequently break eggs by not being able to get to them softly. They then eat the broken eggs, which gives them the ha- bit of doing so at other limes. They should roost warm at night, the perches high from the ground and of easy access, by means of lower ones or ladders. The more lightsome the house the better lor promoting dry air and free circu* THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 55 laiijQ; De-iile-i, to vis caoiioi see at all, heinst qaiie staoifieel anlheloless in the dark, conse- qa--nily the leathere'i trilte al ivays retire to roost before the sun goes down. Shutters to the gla- zed windows are unnecessary, except for better security, or to prevent fowds from leavinsr their ro ISIS too early in the morning, to disturb tick- lish neighbors, otherwise they come out almost as soon asdav-iight begins to appear. The feed- ing places, it under cover, so much the better, as a precaution lor wet weather, and as far as possible removed irom the nests, that the hens which happen to be laying at the time, or which may be sitting, mav not be disturbed and enticed off their nest and eggs at improper times. Be- ing evidently natives of a warm country, they are scarceiv vet perfectly acclimared to our va- riable an 1 col ler regions; although so widelv diff i-ed from time i mmemoriai over the whole face of the-gl one, they have retained a peculiar susceptibility ot oarno and chillness, most ol their diseases arising from rheum, or catarrh catching colds. The lungs ol fowls are parti- culady tender; the finer the species the less is it j ha-rdv. Clea,nUness. — Fowls being cleanlv by nature, thrive when regul.arly attended, but degenerate and sicken if neglected. In an artificial state of existence, they require to be supplied by art with what in nature they wmuld obtain tor themselves. For this purpose they should have j a regular supply; in some convenient part of the shed, ot sifted cinders daily to roll in and cleanse tben selves, and which should be often changed. This precaution will keep them en- tirely Iree from vermin of any de.scripiion. Green Fond —This being quite as necessary for health as corn, to supplvthis requirement ol nature, they should have daily a good supply of' sweet and Iresh green vegetables. Cabbage and lettuce are the best — turnip-tops and water- cresses — but on no account any sour plants, which scour them as do spinnach, the cuttings from grass plats, and most sorts of garden seeds, as their instinct does not serve them to choose the whole.some from the noxious weeds, more than it does animals that happen to stray in a clover-fi^l 1, or happen to receive too large a quantity into thsir s'ables. I have known them to burst. Green food with fowls is an astrin- gent, the very reverse of wliat vegetables are w th us. This fact will notappear so surprising, when it is recollected that one takes them raw, j and the other cooked. A plentiful supnly of clean water, in daily i well cleansed vessels, and wholsome food are } necessary. Frequent changes and mixtures of j corn improve the appetite. Barley is decided- ly their staple.food in this country ; Indian corn, or sometimes rice, mi.xed, for a change. Oats cccasionallv, buf in too large quantity, are apt : to scour. Occasionally buckwheat and hemp seed, as a stimulant, mixed with the barley for a change, are very beneficial, paTticularlv whilst moulting. One meal may be composed of boil- ed or steamed potatoes, w^ll mashed up whilst hot, with a portion of barleymeal or oatmeal for a change, but w'hich must he allowed to remain till cold. Books copying errors trom one anoih er. make a great mistake in advising food to he given hot. It is unnatural — they have no good cooks amongst them in their own state; and it is decidedly injurious to their digestive organs, except when fattening, when 'hey are doomed soon to be killed for table. Feed twice a dav at least, or three limes if not loo fattening; morning earlv, before the usual hour for laying, j if possible; at noon, the noontide meal jnay be j the poiaioesj as above directed, and before sun- i set —no later than lour o'clock — that they may! go to roost by daylight, or they will go without j their fool. Regul.arity greatly lends to health, j and disturbance of any sort is very hurtful. — Rice occasionally boiled in a cloth, greatly in- ! creases its bulk, and they are very fond of it. — Reaumur says, that great economy is derived fiom steeping or boiling the barley, to increase its bulk, when they will be satisfied with one third less quantity. But I cannot speakof this j from ray own experience, nor can I say that beneficial etfecis are produced tiy giving them much flesh, raw or boiled. But lat, as advised in books, produces scourings; spiced or salt meats, and kitchen studs, are certainly perni- cious to their stomachs In fattening lor the table, when they are not required to live I mg, or show fine feather, this may not be ot anv conse quence. Will some ol your practical corres- pondents enlighfer US'? They require in pens, or small yards in towns, to be well supplied with grit, s.and, and small gravel; slaked lime, and old mortar pounded is verv beneficial, and 'ser- viceable in assisting to make the pen or yard dry. 1 will add to the above, that there is no economy in Keeping poultry in towns, in small quantities, which is always exceedingly expen- sive, it well fe 1 and taken care of ; wnich, how- ever, is compensated lor, to those who wish to make certain that the eggs are quite fresh and newly laid. All calculations of expense must be erroneous, there being so many contingent expenses. As a source ot trade, much depends upon r-earing ihe-best breeds, to be early in the season, laying in a stock and store at prooer times, having a ready sale for produce, and to “ buy cheaj), and sell dear.” From the N. Y. Firmer and Mechanic. The Four, aui Hundred Acre Farmers. In journeying through the State of R.hode Is- land, the traveller in that State, as in most others, discovers a great variety of interests and almost every specus of husbandry, from the very best to none at all, as you may say. A few days since I fell in conapany with a gentle- man who had just purchased a farm, for which be paid StT.OOO, every dollar of which he had saved from the income of his garden or farm, consisting of only four acres ot land, (and that not of the first quality in the natural state,) be- sides supporting his family. 1 asked him lor the secret, as I was sme he possessed one, which he gave me as follows. “First,” said he, “ I prepare my ground, and never use any but the best of seed, and that mostly of my own raising, and always put it in in good season, and often take two crops from the same ground bv putting in vegetables that ripen early and then those that are late. And, again, I never carry anything into the market except it is of the first quality or quality recommended, sell it for what it is, and not for what it is not. Al- ways sort ray potatoes and all other vegetables, and vary the price according to quality; yet I can gel more for each quality in proportion to mean cost or price of whole by so doing; fre- quently sell potatoes from 10 to 15 cents per bu- shel. Allow the market price and other kinds in same proportion, and only because the buyer knows he can depend upon having just the sort, kind or quality that he ordeis or purchases. Near bv. was a farmer with an hundred acres of equally good land who was hardly ab e to make the ends meet, (as the saying is,) ye‘ was in- dustrious and had a healthy family. Again for the secret. Well, he did network his land; had too much and could not; went over it and left it to work itself; was obliged to fence more, and do ajhousand things that the man of four acres was free from; and w’hen he went to mar- ket went in a hurry, and in such shape as was most convenient and in such order as the time he allolied bim'self would allow ; always a little late iu the season, and usually found a falling price. Had he sold one half of hi< farm of 100 acres and boaght manure, and hired help to pro- perly till the ofher he might long ere this have brought it back and another with if of equal value. In a few instances I saw farmers carting ma- nure from their yards and putting it in Reaps in the field for spring use. This 1 call anything but good husbandry, as the manure Ry laying in the yard through the summer and exposed to the frosts and storms of winter, must waste at least one half its virtues, i^s the grass crop in New England is by far the most profitable I think, that the fine manure and whatever is made through the summer, should be put on to the land mat is seeded in the lall, and then the yards cleared in the spring, and whether coarse or fine, be either plowed or harrowed in spring for crop. Muck fro i its resting place should be hauled out in the fall or summer, and expo- sed to frosts and storms to decompose and sweeten it a little if a present profit is wanted, and in the spring before using put in unslaked lime, and woik it over, and you will be sure of a rich return for labor thusexpended. From the American Agricaltarist. Buckwheat. Buckwheat is a native of Northern Asia, and seems to have been introduced into our country at its hrsi settlement. It stands lowest among the grain crops ot the larmer, and is seldom in- cluded in any regular rotation, but is cultivated on some piece of new land, or some field out of its regular order. Mr. Ellsworth’s Report for 1844, makes the xvhole crop grown in the United States, 9,000,- 000 bushels. More than two thirds of this is grown in the States of New York and Pennsyl- vania. "Among the New England States, Con- necticut takes the lead, while Ohio is most en- gaged in its cultivation in the valley of the West. Among some farmers its cultivation is induc- ed by the little comparative outlay of seed and labor, and the quickness of the returns. By some it has been considered a very ex- hausting crop; but this is by no means the ge- nerally received opinion. It is more easily af- fected by the weather than any other grain, and a dry season, a hot sun upon the blossoms, or an early frost, is sufficient to seal its ruin ; but if the season is propitious, good crops are often gro'^n on very poor land. It is generally sown about the first of July, and about half a bushel of seed to the acre is required. The belter the ground the less seed is wanted; the most successful cultivators con- sidering it an object to have a rather thin stand, large straw, and well branched out, in order to have a good yield. Rye is sometimes sown w'ith it, and a tolerable yield obtained when the season favors. Thus two crops are obtained W'ith the same plow'ing. About 175 lbs. of grain are required lor 100 lbs. ol flour, and different mills will produce very different qualities with the same quantity of grain. The essentials of good buckwheat flour are whiteness, absence ot all grit, and a clean, soft handling. The bread, or rather cakes, made of this grain, in some sections, is considered essential to a cold w’eather meal. In its season, it is used almost exclusively by the poorer classes, both on the score of economy and convenience. Medical men have pronounced them unhealthy, and no wonder they should do so, if their judg- ment is made upon the heavy, leaden things that so olten come upon the table under the name of ‘ buckwheat cakes.’ As in other things, there is sMgkt in the baking. Our countrywomen are lar ahead of your city cooks in this mrtter. Some analysis ot this grain have shown it to be nutritious. It is said by Professor Johnston to contain gluten, starch and sugar, nearly equal to some varieties of wheat. But a hard-work- ing German once in our employ, said it would do very well lor supper, to sleep on, but not for breakfast or dinner, to sustain him at his labor. The German’s analysis was a real practical one. Give me experience, yet. Most kinds ol stock are fond of this grain when ground; and it is the best of “slop” for cows, producing an extra flow and better milk. Probably three-lourihs of the crop is consum- ed where it is raised, and retailed in the country tow'nsand villages. Except in some sections, the city markets are seldom resorted to. For New York it is put up in kegs or bags of 100, 50, or 25 lbs, each. It is generally sold in lots to wholesale flour dealers, from whom the gro- cers obtain and retail it. It is now bringing (Nov. 1st,) about .$2 per 100 lbs in bags or bar- rels, in the city of New York, according to the newspapers. A. R. D. ffackettstown^ N, J. THE SOUTHERN CULTIVAl.'OR. AUGUSTA, GA. VOL. IV., rxiO. 4., 1646. New Englaiid Industry. We have been exceedingly interested in a pa- per, which we find in the National Intelligencer, of 7 th March. It is a synopsis of the “Statistics of the condition and products of certain branches of industry in Massachusetts for the year ending April 1, 1345.” And what think you is the ag- gregate of the products of the labor of the peo- ple of that State in the items enumerated 7 No less than $114,473,443— nearly twice as great as th'^ value of the whole Cotton crop of the South I Look, for a moment, at the items jn the table that exceed a million of dollars. They are. nieachiiig or coloring cotton goods . ..$2,166,000 Koo's and Shoes . It. 799, '4'.) Butler I,|I6.7'<9 C.ilico 4.779.9'7 ’ (.'audies... i 0.6l3;9o Cars, carriages. &c 1.343, .576 Chairs and cabinet- ware 1,476,679 Colton goods of all kinds ..12,193,449 Fishery, cod and mackerel. 1-184.137 do Whale 10,371.167 G-ain 2.228,229 Hay 5,214,357 liollow-ware and castings 1 .280,14 1 Leather 3.836,6.57 Alachinery 2,022,648 Paper 1,750.273 Potatoes 1,309.030 Rolled and slit iron, and nails 2,7-38,300 filone squared lor building purposes 1,06-5,599 Straw bonnets and hats, pa nt leaf hats and braids., 1.649 496 Vessels 1,172.146 Wood, (file,) bark and charcoal I,0rj8,6.56 Woollen goods of all kinds 8.^77,478 Other enumerated goods and produce 5,204,111 Kon enumerated do do 4,758,581 Then, in the grand list, are other items, each amounting to less than a million of dollars, viz : Anchors, chain cables, &c, beef, bricks, tallow and soap, caipeting, cheese, chemical prepara- tions, copper, cordage, cutlery, engines and boil- ers, firearms, truit, glass, glue, hats and caps, iron pig, iron railing, &c., jewelry and watches, white lead anfi paints, lumber and shingle.^, milk, musical instruments, oil, larJ, saddles, har- ness and trunks, shovels, spades, forks and hoes, sewing silk, snuff, tobacco and segars, refined sugar, tacks and brads, tin-ware, upholstery, vegetables other than potatoes, w'ooden-ware, wool, worsted goods, amounting, together with the items over amihion, to the sum of $114, 478,- 443. And all this immense sum is the result of the labor, for one year, of 152,766 persons, em- ploying a capital of $59,145,767. We are surprised that, in the tables we find no mention of ice. This is certainly a very im- portant item in any good account of the produc- tive industry of Massachusetts. For we were informed last summer, in a conversation with a gentleman who had the statement, as he said, from Mr. Webster, that Vne ice exported by Mas- sachusetts, paid for all the cotton consumed in the manufactories of that State. Besides the grand list, we have a large number of tables, exhibiting very interesting statistics in detail, of various departments of industry — such as the number of mills, manufactories and male and female operatives employed therein ; consumption and value of different articles used in manulactuving ; statistics of the whale, mack- erel and cod fisheries ; statistics of sheep and wool; number and value of cattle, stock, &c.; statistics of grain produced; statistics of other agricultural and domestic products. In this last table, we find potatoes to amount to nearly five millions bushels; fruit, to nearly three millions do. ; butter, to nearly eight^raiilions pounds ; cheese, over seven millions ; milk, nearly three millions of gallons; broom corn and seed to the value of $S6, 111 ; and shoe pegs, to iheamountof 13,608 bushels, valued at $18,206. When the citizens of a State have such an ex- hibit to show to strangers, they have something lobe proud of; and when those who are elected to make laws have such minute and accurate statistical information before them, they can go on in the discharge of their duties boldly and fearlessly — and not groping in the dark as with us magnificent Southrons. To a citizen of the Southern States itis exces- sively mortifying, when in New F.ngland, to be asked bow many acres of land are in cultivation in cotton, rice, sugar, corn, &c., and to be com- pelled to answ'er — don’t known What is the number of sheep, horses, cows, &c., in Georgia? for example — don’t know. What is the amount of the cotton crop ? — so many bales. And so of everything else. What, no statistics!! No ; none except an account of the population. How in the world do your members of the Le- gislature get along in arranging taxes equitably, and doing the many other things that can’t be done right, without such statistical information as we in New England are so careful to collect ? Why, they have just to do as well as they can. There is no exaggeration in this.. And, trom present appearances, we fear such mortification will have to be endured for a long time yet by our Southern people. Soutlieru Indepeiuleiice. With a view of showing what people are do- ingin Mississippi to relieve them selves from the abject thraldom to which the South, too gene- rally, has been reduced by depending on Cotton for everything, we copy from the Albany Culti- vator an extract of Dr. Phillips’ letter to the Editor. Shall we hope for the extensive preva- lence of the like spirit ? “Our people are improving,” the Doctor says, “and will improve ; and I tell you more than this, that low prices of cotton, and high prices of our necessaries, wall open out in this wry clime a production that will drive many from our mar- ket. Pork can be bought cheaper in Eastern Mississippi than iu Cincinnati ; hay or fodder can be bought cheaper than in New York, Cin- cinnati, or New Orleans. I have sold an excel- lent lot (10 steers) of beef cattle at 2^ cents per pound. I know of a pretty large lot of two year old hogs, purchased at $2 50 to $3 each--they would weigh 150 to 200 lbs — say 160 lbs. average. I will sell weathers at 5 cents, stalled for two or three months. I hope to see the day that Mis- sissippi and Louisiana wall supply our own peo- ple with every necessary, and I glory in being one of Mississippi’s citizens who exerts himself in making her thus honorable and independent. I tell you, sir, it can be done, and yet send off our 500,000 bales, worth $10,000,000, or more, and, I believe, to some extent, it will be, done in my day and time.”. Colmaii’s European Agriculture. We have received the fifth part of this very valuable w'ork, and ha\e read it with very great pleasure. We cannot but reyret, on looking over the list of subscribers, drat there are so few in the Southern States— not more than one in a hundred of the whole number, we think. There are to be ten numbers in ad, making two vo- lumes of about £00 pages each; and we do not see how anyone, ha\ing five dollars to spare, can make a better use of the money than by the pur- chase of Mr. Colman’s work. The subjects discussed in this 5lh No., are ; — General Markets. General Remarks and Divisions of the sul ject of English P’armins:, The Soil. - - Theories of the Ope»ation of the Soff. Soils ot Great Britain. Classific.ition of Soils. Physical Propenies of the Soil. Peaty Soil— Loamy Soil. Humus, or Vegetable Mould. Peculiarities of Soil. Application of Chemistry to Agriculture. Theory of Agriculture, Actual Improvements. Plowing'. The Perfection of Plow ing. Plowing Match at Saffron Walden. General Rules for Plowing. Improved Machiiiery. Moral Considerations. . Harrowing— se mif} ing or grubbing. General Remarks on the use of Agricultural Machinery. Particular Exam.ple.s of Improvement. Cornwall and the Lands’ End. Table of Calculations on Plowing. Deep Plowing. .Ill 1828, the celeiirated Dr. Cooper, of South Carolina, in an article in the Sou hern Review, on the “Principles of Agriculture,” made the remark, that “ accurate pulverizatioii, and deep plowing, are, as yet, very uncommon in our Southern States generally, and in South Caro- lina in particular.” This was w ritten, printed, and published a little more than eighteen years ago. And though since then, reasons have been immensely multiplied, from the w earing out of our Soil, and the diminished value of our chief crop — cotlon--\vhy an improved system of Ag- riculture should be adopted, yet here wm are, driving along in the old beaten track of our ances- tors, and spurning, too general])', every proposed improvement, especially if it be suspected to come from books. Blit it is useless to complain. Time Will w’oik a cure, after a while, in spite ol all the resistance of bigotry and folly. Stern necessity will com- pel other generations to profit by the lessons taught by science, even though they be recorded in books, as has actually happened in England in the course of the last hundred years. We wish we could transfer to our columns the w’hole of Dr. Cooper’s article on ihe “ Prin- ciples of Agriculture.” We are compelled, for want of room, to confine ourselves to an extract of so much of it as relates to pulveiization and deep plowdng ; “ Jethro Tull, who published in 1731 ard 1733, and who died in 1740,. may be considered as the father, 1st, of the pratice of pulverizing the soil to a degree not in use, before. It is true, he c n-’ sideied this practice essential, not only as afford ing a more easy passage to ihe tap-ioots, and tl • lateral fibres of roots, and encouraging iho' THE SOUTHERN" CULTIVATOR. growth, but as a coiuplete substitute' for ma- nuring; inas uuch as he considered earth itself as apabuinm or lood of plants; wherein he was undoubtedly in error: — ■2dly, ot the Drill Hus- bai.drv: — 3dlv, of the Horse-Hoeing Husband- ry:— 4thlv, of the abolition of Fallows: — and SVhh , as'the obvious result of his principles. Deep Plowing. “It is long before the precepts of good sense and sound philosophy are bro^ight into common practice. We thinli it may be said, that accurate pulverization and deep plowing, are; as yet, verv uncommon in our Southern States generally, and in South Carolina in particular; although the hot and dry summers of a southern climate seem pecaliaily and loudly to call for this prac- tice. Suppose a field plowed 4, 8 and 12 inches deep, 4 A S B 12 C when rains come, on whose moisture the -plants will have to subsist during, perhaps, a two- months’ drought, the four inch plowing will be thoroughlv soaked with moisture for four inches down to A ; and the water will percolate with difficulty through the unstirred ground from A to B. biJt will run off in great part, to supply springs and hollows at a lower leve;, and be lost to the field. But if the ground be plowed eight inches from the surface down to B, there will be a body of moist earth for the gradual supply of the roots, eight inches deep instead of four, and will, therefore, las . twice asl-mg as the moisture contained between the surface and A. So, if the ground be well plowed and stirred as low as C, the supply of moist earth wdli take a long pe- riod of evaporation from below, bef-are it be-ex- hau'=:ed. The absolute quantity of moisture re- tained, will of cou' se d'‘P''nd on the capacity of •the soil for retaining moisture ; but be this more or less, the above reasoning vvdil hold good : the ground will be thoroughly socked, so far an ' no farther than it can psrnut the water to percolate; when the under soil is so hard as to present an obstacle to its passage, it will run off to some lower h vel, or be Cjnverted into a reservoir of water, which th . heat of the earth will gradually evaporate among the roots of the plants. To make a san.iv soil more retentive of moisture, Gen. Beatson’s plan of manuring with half burnt clav, pulverized, to the amoant of f:om 30 to BO loads per acre, would, undoubtedly.be attend «d with the hammiest effects; and we are fully inclined to believe this would be an adduion, as waruable, at least, a's the same quanti y ot stable manure; for it would be more perrnanent. Deep plowing, therefore, furnishes a reservoir of mois- ture for the roots to feed upon, when the sur- face earth is parched by long continued heat. All this is familiar to every gardener, and we be- lieve this mode of explaining one of the good ef- fects of deep plowing in our climate wifi be intel- ligble and perhaps convincing; but it will take along time t j persuade a planter or farmer that the practice of a gardener will repay the cost. “ Another advantage of deen plowing and pul- verization is, the facility it affords to the tap re -ts and side shoots that branch off from the main root, to extend themselves to find nourislimcnt, and to contribute to the growth of the plant. About the middle of October, we went into a cotton field of poor and sandy soil, and plucked up t VO plants by the root ; digging down (not a diiflcu't operation) to the bottom of the main taproot. One of them was from a part of the field where the soil was loose and well pulveri- sed for about four inches deep ;, the otherplant | was taken from a part of thg field where the i earth appeared to be more baked and bard ; t e | larger root (the first mentioned) was seven inch- ■ es longfroin the surface of the ground ; the other j was si.x inches long. The root from the part of the field most loose and pulverized was about double the. size of the other, and its side shoots about six limes the thiekness of the other ; it weighed also about three times as much. The whole field had not (from appearances) been stir- red by the plow more than about four or five inches deep ; but the superior size of the larger root was manifestly o%ving to the facility afford- ed to the side shoots in their search for food. We think it not too much to say, that had the whole fie’d been plowed twelve inches deep, the crop on the same space of ground would proba- bly have been doubled. Ail that we have read, and all that we hare seen, co.nvinces us, that the nearer agriculture approaches to Horticulture, the more perfect will it be, and the better will it remunerate the labor expended. “Gen. Beatson, from examining the East Indian and Chinese plows, so light and simple in their structure, and the effect produced by them, ar- rived at the opinion, that deep plowing could be effected more easily, more cheaply, and as per- fectly, by meat s of light plows or scarificators drawn by one horse, and repeatedlv working in the same furrovv lill the requir-d depth was ob- tained, than by heavy plows drawn by four oxen ■ or horses ; and that the required pulverization of i the ;; . il would be more easily and effectually pro- I diicedby this repetition, than by one deep plow- ■ ing in the cornm n way. Hence, he runs a light plow ora scarificator six or ti: hr times along the same furrow. If the facts detailed in his book are fairly related, of which we see no reason to doubt, the practice recommended by him, is attended with the desired success, and a great improvf ment on small farms it wi:l assur- edly prove. Heavy plows and a numerous team cannot be prudently purchased or easily main- tained but by farmers on an extensive scale, who can supply constant work to this expensive team; and, theref ue, deep and effectual plow- ing cannot lake place where farming is carried on on 9. small scale, or where the tenant or occu- pier is sira tened for capital. The practice of gardeners in respect erf deep stirring the earth and effectually loosening the subsoil, appears to be the greatest practical improvement that could be introduced into agriculture Every modern garden, commenced upon apj.roved principles is dug ad over at first, full two spits deep.” ©riginal Cominnuirations. Plantation Slauagement. Me. Camak : — Having taken hold of the han- dles of the plow. I dare not look back. I have endeavored, from the commencement of the SouTHERir Cultivator, to encourage that ex- I celient work, not only by procuring subscribers, I but, in my teeble way, to give my brother farm- I ers, from time to time, the plan we do things on i down here South. Well, we have entered upon I the responsibilities of another year, and have al- I ready put oonsiderable seed in the ground. But, ! as year after year passes by, I find much to learn I in nry efforts to carry on my small farm. Fiiid- I ing [ had to abandon mj' farm or commence en- I riching it, I determined on the latter course — as : pulling up stakes and nroving from one section j of country to another is, I think, one of the worst kinds of employments that a fanner can possibly engage in. In an effort to enrich my farm',^ had to pursue the course that every farmer must, who makes the trial depend on the materials within his reach. I therefore commenced digging tlie blue marl, and set to hauling it into my lot, nnd at the same time, commenced hauling in the pine straw. Biit'here, Mr. Editor, I was at once at a loss as to the best plan to pursue, having but lit- tle knowledge of Chemistry; — not knowing, in- deed, whether the marl would not answer as well spread over the land at once, instead of the laborof hauling it in a lot, and letting it remain some four or five months, and then hauling it out. I knew but little of the pioperiies of the pine straw. My impre5si''n'3 were rather against the pine strawL •Still, I thought, by mixing the marl and straw together, a compost might be made with the treading ot cattle, that might prove valuable. So to work I went. I havejbund it quite a task to haul it into the field. Here, again; I was at a loss how to manage : whether to manure in . the hill, or to spread broad-cast, or both, was the dif- ficulty. I finally determined on Dr. Cloud’s plan, with the excejiti n I was afraid to risk the hill systenr of planting. Cotton, for fear of a stand. I therefore first spread my manure broad, erst, and , then turned it under with tlie turning plow. I I then operied a large shovel furrow, and filied that I with the manure. Time will determine our success or failure ; and in either case, should I be spared, you shall h; ar from us. You know 3Iaclix's advidfe to Ins Son was, -to write perseverance on his heart. If we fail, we must but change our .system. But the .fiirm has to be manured, and we have to find out the b;st System by Experiment. I said we had much to learq. I have been ploxving ever since I was able to handle a plow, say forty years. I am fo: the first time, using the Sub-soil Plow and the Cultivator. — The self-sharpening Plow that I have, is rath- er on The plan of the old bar-shear, with a coul- ter in front, only that the mould-board is iron, in- stead of wood ; and the coulter of the self-shar- per,ing Plow is so constructed, that the. point of the plow runs into the coulter — the coulter being confined by a wedge. Will you be so good, iVIr. Editor, as toinform us ih’ ough the Cultivator, how you have succeeded with the grape, and your opinion of the best va- riety for the South 2 V.'ith us, the culture orf the grape has proved a failure. The roots rot la the ground jrfter a few years. This, I presu'ne, is o\i ing to a want of proper knowledge of their culture. While'visiting the garden of M r. Bar- son’s of Long Island, I found him bury ing the roots of the grape very deep. He shov.-ed"me a bank in which, he Inform.ed me, he ffad buried some five or six dead horses, for the rr ,ots of the grape to penet’-ate. Although I found the finest graphs i n the North, 1 ti'.ink our Southern clim.aie muchb etter adapted to the raising that delicious fruit, rhan a mere Northern latitude. Air. Ellswon’n informs us,, that North Carolina raises double, the quantity of grapes of any Stale, at least, m.akes double 'the quantity of wine Knowing you to be a proctir^al man, ?n r. Edi- tor, give us through your colvirons the best plan for a manure heap. A stro'ng box to hold the Parmer’s money, is not mo.reln portQut than a well managed manure hea.p. Alanuis is only a dirty kind of iiionev. Hoping your efforts to do good, and improve the Farming interests of the country wiU prove successful, I am your F'riend, A lexander McDonald. Eufaula, Afo., \2th, March, lS4ff, The Fiight Spirit* Camak : — I see an announcement by the Publishers, in thf; Cultivator for this month, which betokens a, bad state of affairs. I allude to the fact, that, “ '^(hus far, the patronage ex tended to it (the paper.) is entiiely inadequate to its sup- port-—not sufficient to pay the actual expenses o. publication.” This must be mortifyirg to every rnan whodefjires to see an improved mode of Ag- riculture. Can ’t be possible thar the people of Georgia, will suffer the piper to dv.indie, after it has battleci so nobl5’ to promote their interest 1 I think no t. I cannot, nor will not believe, that they will prove so recreant to thdr own interest. Are there not among its friends in almost every County in the State, those who will exert tkem- sel-ves to extend its eireulafion, until it shall bs justN entitled to a place beside the best work in ths Lnion, of the same character 2 There are miany of your Eubscribers, who do not believe In, r*or wi’l not tolerate a retrogade movement of *chis sort, now that they are apprised of the fact. Tell them how many su'-scribers you have — how many you ivant — how many it -wi;! take to make your paner as good as the b-_ st in the land — plates and all; and then see if they' don’t send you “ new subscribers ” by “ scores and hundreds.” I believe that in advancing the interest of tlv Southern CuLTiVA.T0R, I am indirectly advanc- ing my own, and ta shotv that I “practice what 1 !)reach,” you have my permission to place my name on your list of gratuitous agents. To support liberally our .Agricultural papers, is the first step to improvement in our art : for un- less men are previously prepared for it, by a pro- per course of reading, you cannot get them to unite in forming Associations for their mutual benefit. They do not see any' advantage to be gained from Associations, because they are un- acquainted with their practical tendency', not having read or even heard of the great benefits that other sections of the country have derived from them. Good papers are all important to the Agricultural communl’y, (all who read them think so,) i.^ inifrovementhe their object, and yet. if we were to judgqx-f their value by the numbci of farmers who read them, we should be com pelled to set them down as almost valueless. It surely would not be thus, if our people refiected upon the subjecPproperly. I have pursued this subject far enough, and will drop it, hoping that some one of more abil- ity, will take it up, and while it may rest, let u.s all do what we caii to increase the ci culation t’.ie SouT.‘'EaN. Cultivator. I have seen ail the 58 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. ■while, tlmt Fomo of your oorresnondents were anonymous, whir' others sisn. d their real names. We h ar some ^ uinbdng among the latt r c'ass occasional y~ pray don’t let them fall out bv the way for so trivial a cause. T like very much to s'e the proper name at ihe end of each article, but ■when a g lod reason exists for withholding it, let us have the article without the name. How I like to see T. .Affleck, M. W. Philips, Solon Uo- binson, or s img other “ srood and lawful” name attach'd toon arfcle ; v( t, who can say that these men have accompli hed more than *■ Com- mentator.” " Agricola,” ‘‘A. of the North,” and many others like them. Tell them, IVlj. Editor, to give us a ffood chiistinn name, if they can, and if they can’t do that, let t^em do the best they can without the name. Respectfully, your Friend, Joel Hurt. Crawford, Russell Co., Ala., Afar. ISfh, ’46. Clearing I_aud. Mr. Camak — As there are some of your read- ers who may yet have land to c’ ear, I propose makinea few remarks, the results of my expe- rience and reflections, on the manner and t’me of clearing land, in which the labor spent will be most productive; the soil most easily brought into cultivation, and the timber kept most valu- able. I will briefly sta e, fir-t, the process which I wou'd recommend, then state my reasons, &c. I do not hesitate to think that I would havebeen benefitted some hundred.s of dollars by the course I now recommend, if I had known and pursued it for the last six years. As the season is not yet too far advanced, I hope it will benefit some of vour leaders. The course I recommend is, first burn off the leaves, underbrush, &c., in the usual way of burning wmods, in the spring. If it is done ear- ly. the burning will be more uniform and easily effected, as tl.e leaves have not been blown by the wind into seperate heaps; if it is done after the sap begins to run the small growth is more eff’jctually killed, and I prefer it. After burning, at any leisure time, it should be cleaned by cutting down (not grubb'ng> all the small growth and putting it into heaps, together ■w'ith all the dead logs, &c., and if convenient it maybe plowed with a coulter or dull scooter. The next step is one on which I lay particular stre s ; which is to wait until the month of Alu- gust, an-l, if you have any faith in the moon, to wait until a few days before the full, but I think any time in August, then go over the whole ground and deaden all the trees, which can be done more easily than at any other time, most trees requinng only to have the bark cut through. After this split rails, fence, burn logs, clean, plow, plant as tisual. The main advantages of this system are the following : fi st, much labor is saved by burning the leaves and undergrowth out of the way ; se- cond, the labor of grubbing is saved, while the roots of the grubs'^ are more- certairrly killed ; third, the horse in plowing is not so frequently stumped, as the snag of the sprout, or bull-head, as it is pithily called, turns the plow aside; which turning also gives a t’wist to the root and causes it sooner to die. There is a time in May, which I call the nick of time, for burning, (in dry season ;) itis when, in most trees, the leaves of spring arj fully grown and before a second growth has commenced. The second great step in theprocess flows from a G'- and Secret, viz: Rails and 'Rimber, for all purposes, cut in August ara more durable than the like timber cut at any other time. And this, I am bold to assert, and can substantiate by argu- ment— Uncle Sam, his live-oak cutters and an- cient usage, to the contrary notwithstanding. It is also thought that the roots will rot out of the way sooner. This is yet with me a matter of investigation. But about the rails I am as confident as the boy who exclaimed, “Chesnut rails is the idee for a fence ; they last forever ; dad’s tiled them often ; I knows.” And, enpas- sant, of another thing! am as confident, and for the boy’s reason ; and that is that fence corners and pasture lands sprouted in August will remain clean longer than if grubbed at most other times of the year. I hope, iMr. Editor, that some of your corres- pondents will think on the matter, and correct any error which they may see in my plan. I have frequently mentioned my thoughts in this matter, and the only strong' obiection which 1 have heard, and it was pretty much of a dam- per at first, but has occurred so recently, that] have not had time to collect facts in the case ; it was this, " You are right, but it will kill your land too.” Now, sir, one motive in making this communi- cation is to draw out well ascertained facts, bear- ing upon this matter, from the stores of experi- ence laid up by many of yourrea‘'ers. Are there any facts which they will give in regard to the injury resulting from ki ling timber in summer? I once bought a little experience in regard to plowing wet land ; which I would do, because 1 could not get a reason, as well as an assertion, for it, and I have ever since been cautious how' I rejected a statement made by one of OldUsages chiidien. I think the objection here, however, invalid; and that it arises only from observing the effect on the wild growth, and not by noticing the pro- duct after cultivation Agriculturists should observe carefully and not draw their deductions mo so; n. Yours, A. S. OF Hakwood Farm. Lebanon P. O , Cobb co , Aiarch 11, 1S46. Subsoil Plows, Corn and Cob Mills, Straw Cutters, Large kettles. Boiling Corn for Hogs, &e.,&c. Mr. Ca.mak: — I herew iih send you a rough draught of a subsoil plow, (f.r your own in-pec tion, as I presume you have no means ot trans- feiring it to the Cultivator,) which 1 have had in use for the last two years. It is a combina- tion of two plows, or rather, of a plow, the twisted shovel — and the broad-dart-shaped-point Coulter, which latter, I had first made, (and the first I ever saw in that shape) to run in a com- mon Coulter stock after another plow. But, on reflection, 1 came to the conclusion that I could combine the two, and so save the labor of one hand by doubling rny team, and, J am happy to say to you, that 1 have succeeded in making a fubsoil plow, with which I am much pleased. It is, however, most probably not to be compar- ed with the late inventions of Messrs, Proutv & Mears, Ruggles, Nourse & Co., and others, that are so highly spoken of in our Agricultural papers ; neitheref which have I had the pleasure of using or even seeing. But, it is an i ■nple- ment that will, when properly constructed, and drawn by a good team, 1 think, give satisfaction to all of my biother Farmers who have not seen or used a better. You will perceive by the figure, though bad- ly drawn, ihd# the small turning plow runs a- head. It may be set to run a furrow as deep as may be pioper to turn a ttiin soil. The Coulter follows in its wake, and may be set to run as deep as desired, or as the team may be able to pull it. It bleaks, like a mole, without Iming- ing the subsoil to the surface. The bar of the Coulter should be two and a half inches wide, by three-fourths thick. The point, which is made it the shape of an fscsccZcs triangle, should be about 8 inches on the two longer and equal sides, and 6 inches on the shorter sii'e, or across the heel. It should be laid with steel and set at something over a right angle with fhe front edge of the bar. It is nof necessary, I presume, to describe the “jack” or “ twisted shovel,” as most farmers have seen oneor the other of them. Either will do to run before the Coulter. Or, to those that are opposed to turning iheir land, 1 would say, put on a common shovel or bull tongue, in place of the turning plow, and “ go ahead” I have been anxious to procure one of Proutv & Mears’, or Ruggles, Nourse & Co.’s subsoil plows, but have not yet succeeded. It is said of the former: “ These arelight in theirstructure, simple in construction, easy in draft and man- agement, adapted to a common team on com- mon farms, viz; for two to four horses, or oxen, and efficient in operation. The weight does not exceed that of a common plow.” * * * “The fact that No. 2, working at the depth of 12 inches, after a light span of horses, driven and held by ahoy, for a whole day, with ease to himself and team, and the work performed in such a manner as to call forth ihe unqualified approbation of numerous iniel igent fanners, is conclusive, as to ease ol drali, &c.” This plow, as well as those of Messrs. Ruggles, Nourse & Mason, are highly spoken of by most persons that have used them. Col. B. F. P, of Green- ville, S. C., inaleiierto me, on Agiicultural subjects, says: “I have the honor of iuir.'du- cing the first subsoil plow into Greenville Dis- trict. It costs only ten dollars, and is easily drawn by two horses. By running a common plow in front, you may plow with it ten or fif- teen inches deep. By subsoiling our hill sides, we prevent their washing. The water sinks down through the Subsoil instead of sweeping over, and carrying ((ff the surface. Kvny Far- mer should have this plow, if he wishes to pre- serve and pulverize his soil.” I believe the development of facts growing Out of the application ofihe principles of Cliem- isiry to Agriculture, with the useot the subsoil plow, on our lands that have been well protect- ed by hill-side or grade ditches, vviil form a new era in the science of Agricultute. With hill- side ditches and subsoil phunng to protect our land from washing, and chemical analysis, to point out the character ol our soils and the ne- cessary manures lo render them productive, we farmeis had better stay at hoti e, and let speculators, and others that choose, go to Texas. 1 was much pleased wiih ihe excellent address of Mr. Sar-neit, published in the Cultivator, and fully concur with him in the conclu-ion he has come to on the subject ol hil'-sitie ditching. And 1 will vouch for the (act, that if his advice is well followed in Georgia, or elsewhere, there will be less “ running away” of land than there has been heretofore. On the subject of asking Legislative aid to Agricoliure,^ 1 would say to Mr. S., You had as well “sing psalms to a dead horse.” Well, it is our own fault. When our Legislature is composed of the proper materials, ve may ex- pect aid, and not be/vire. Think you if our worthy (Governors had recommended an increase of so.' aries or fees, instead ol fo.stering the Agii- cultural interests, they would not have been better sustained ? But you will perhaps say, 1 am meddling with politics, so to my subject. In addition to subsoil plow.s, there are other implements ol husbandry we stand much in need of. A northern farmer would keep an extra animal on what we wmuld wasie in feeding halt a dozen! We need Com and Cob Crushers, Straw Cutters, and also large Kettles to boil food for our Cows and Hogs. Of the latter Messrs. Cooper & Stroup cf Cass county, Ga., can furnish any number, I presume, that mav be called for I have oDe on my farm, near the Fur- nace, which he Ids about 60 gallons. In this kettle, put up in a rough furnace, corn for 120 hogs, fatted the past season, was boiled daily, and, I might add, nightly, for it was kept in use all the time. Occasionally a kettle of 'Turnips or Ar/icAete were given, and now and then, a handlul of sn.lt, or a shovel or two of ashes, were thrown into the kettle when boiling. Not onlv the Corn was eaten without any waste, but the Cobs were masticated, Ihe juices sucked out, and I believe a part swallowed. I never had hogs to thrive faster, or, as I believe, fatten on less food. But this was loo much trouble, some would say. Well, it was some trouble, to be sure ; for it required the constant attention of one of my best hands. But the corn saved by this trouble, lor which I expect a fair price ere long, wdll more than compensate for it, besides paying Messrs. Cooper & Stroup lor the kettle, which is now in daily u.*e in boiling turnips and ar- tichokes, with a portion of corn meal, (here you seethe necessity ol a cob mill,) to mix with my cut food for my cows and calves.. You would not, I think, censure a man, Mr. Editor, for thus economising, especially if he had scarcely corn enough to make ends meet. Nor do /fear censure, even when I inform you, I have not only a plenty for my own use but some to '■'■take to the depot," lo supply the wants of our low-country friend.?. Poor Richard in- SBBSCKB THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 59 forms us ihat “a penny saved is a penny made.” Thc'e is no propriety in wasting, even ii we have more than enough, especially v'hen so many are in want. With a corn and cob mill, much might be saved by grinding into fine meal, all the corn with the cobs, fed to our stock. I say fine meal, because 1 do not approve ol feeding such “ cob meal’' as is ground in bark mills to eitiier cows or hogs. Much of it, I know, will be rejected by iiogs, and it is said by some to be injurious to cows. By breaking down tne cob so that it will feed out of the shoe of a corn mill, and then grinding it with the corn as other meal, it is an exeellent ariicle of food. Having no cob crush- er near me at this lime, ! have my nubbins bro- ken op on wet days, in a large trough, as you would beat apples for cider; then the miller that does my other grinding, converts the whole in- to fine meal By mixing a portion of this meal lor each horse, with cut oats, hay and rye, or wheat straw, I believe I save near, if not quite, half of the corn that w’ould be required to keep a horse in the same condition, when fed in our usual wasteful manner on corn and fodder; be- sides, I am enabled thereby to sell all my fodder to rny neighbors that are afraid ol trouble. Judging from what otliers say ®1 them (for I have not had the pleasure or profit of owning one myself, though I trust this will not be the case l('ng)— -there are some excellent corn and cob mills now offered for sale in most of the cities of theNortP.and they are probably kept by Messrs. Hazard & Co., of Savannah. Why do not the A ngusla Merchants keep them ? If they do, they do not-advertise in the proper pa- per, the Cot-T’ivATOR. The much lamented J. M. Garnett in one of his last excellent articles over the signature ol “ Coinmentatoso,” in the Albany Culti vatnr, says : “The account giv- en by C. N. Bementof Hussey’s and Baldwin’s corn and cob crushers, is such as ought to in- duce every one, who feeds corn to slock, to buy and use one; since there can be no longer even a sliadow of doubt as to the great economy of the practice. Yet, strange to say, there is not probably one farmer in a thousand, even among those who are thoroughly convinced of their great utility, who has ever bought either of them. ‘Our extreme tardiness to adopt even what we ■firmly believe will materially benefit us, is among the most unaccountable things in our nature; and the man who could cure u.s of it, wouid be one of the greatest benefactors to our whole class that ever lived.” I do hope that many, very many, of the Agriculturists of the South will, through the influence of Agricultu- ral papers, be shortly cured of such obstinacy, and that the cob mill may be found on every farm or plantation where there is a threshing machine or cotton gin. We also need better straw-cutters than the old Dutch cutting knife and box, of which there are almost an endless variety now' offering for sale, (1 cannot saj/ or believe, however, that all of them are better) many of which are, no doubt, superior. Of such as I have seen in use, 1 had concluded that for cutting straw or hay Greer’s was the best, especially when .the power neces- •sary to drive it was taken into consideration. Col. P. from w’hose letter I have taken the liber- ty to quote above, says of Hovey’s straw cut- ter: “ It is an improvenrent on Greer’s, and costs only $15, It cuts, with wonderful ease and rapidity, cornstalks, shucks, hay, fodder, straw, &c. In one day yon might cut enough with it to feed on for weeks or months. One reason why we have all been so averse to feed- ,ing our stock w'iih cut food, is the trouble of cut- ting it; thisdifficullv is removed by J/btry’s straw cutter.” I see that others speak in equally high •terms of it. But, Mr. Editor, I shall, I fear, trespass too far on your columns. I do not pretend to write often or but I hope ! shall be understood by plain men. The greatest difficulty with me is, when I have once commenced, to know when to stop. When I gel on the (to me) interesting subject ol Agriculture, I put myself in mind of what a friend once said to me respecting these “ no-occasion” sort of eaters. He said, “If ever you invite a fellow' to eat, and he says he has no occa'^ion, let him alone, don’t insist on him, for so sure as you get him down, he will sweep the platter." And so it is with myself, as in the present instance, I have swallow'ed every- thing of this hotch-potch that vi as set before me, and yet I am scarcely satisfied ; but for “ man- ner’s sake” 1 will desist. Our w'orthy Post-mas- ter and myself have succeeded in increasing your subscription list some five or six the pre- sent year, and Ihope it w'ill continueto increase. Geo. Seaborn, Pendleton, S. C., Pebrunry, 184G. Hopkins’ .kllen Plow. Mr Gamak : — As this is the season for plow- ing. 1 will, w'lth your sanction, suggest to the favorable consideration of your patrons, the ex- cellency of “ Hopkins’ Allen Pattern Plow.” This iinplemeiit was perfected a few years since, after much effort and application, by Mr Thos. Hopkins, of Augusta, and is only to be had at his Foundry in its perfect (brm. This plow is an entire casting, w ith point and heel at- tached by a single screw and tap each. This advantage renders it the most convenient, at the same lime the most economical implement now in use. Its width is only 7| inches, but cuts and turns far more land than the old wrought “Allen Plow” with nearly double its width. It is a correct scientific irni lement, and comes nearer perfection than any article I have ever seen, and is construct literally upon the prin- ciple of a perfect wedge, which is the true sci- ence of plow making. As an evidence of this fact, it wears equally at all points. lam now working with some that have b-en in use three years and are nearlv as thin as pasteboard. “ Hopkins’ Pattern'’ combines the three points of a perfect plow', which are never reali- zed in the old fashion and detestable wrought plow. First, It enters and passes through the soH with the least possible resistance. Secondly, It turns the furrow slice and breaks it thoroughly. Thirdly, The mos't beneficial line of draft to the horse is easily obtained. There are other advantages too in this imple- ment which are most important to the planter When once slocked it never requires to be sent to a sn.iih, as any cobbler can make wrought points from the pattern of a piece of pasteboard. As a general rule, the old fashion wrought plow, when once beat upon by the comnuin smiths of the country, can never again be fitted to the same stock. Mr. Flopkins certainly de.serves the rew'ardof the planting interest of Georgia for having con- structed a plow of so great utility, and answer- ing so eminently all sections and all varieties of soil. I w'ould suggest to Mr. H. the propri- ety of casting his plow's of better materials and giving them a smoother surface. We shall never arrive at anything like a cor- rect system of agriculture until we adopt anew and more scientific method, and with it alsothe improved implements of the age, which are pro- gressing w'iih the same ratio as all other tools that wear the impress of genius. The planter that sets himself down at the present day with- out the agricultural lights before him, is unfit to be classed in the scale of a rational being; lor his duty requires of him far greater effort of mindand mus.cle than any other member of society. Should he be a parent, then he is more culpable— for so certain as mind is pro- gressive, the blush of agricultural ignorance will crimson the cheek of his son. The planters of Georgia must, ere long, adopt a new and more thorough system of agriculture. The present fatal system of surface-plowing must be abandoned or ruin is inevitable. We must break deep, mix top and bottom together, plant deep, cover lightly and cultivate shallow. The past fatal season has thoroughly demon- strated the practicability of this plan. Our sys- tem of agriculture can only be compared to our system of education, radically wrong and too shallow. I have never seen a planter upon hilly and clay lands adopt any other for breaking than a turning plow, but I have lamented his folly. If the planters ot old Burke, Jefferson, &c,, break their sandy and light soils with the deepest turning innplements, and find that every subsequent operation only adds durability and life to their old fields, cultivated from 50 to 60 years, why need those upon a clay substratum pervert the guarantee of nature herself; for in the absence of it upon light lands she has given them a subsoil to build upon. If not it relevant, Mr. Camak, I w'fuld here suggest, that to achieve a proper and more correct plan of breaking lands, we must ha ve another race of blacksmiths as well as improved implements, tor the work of their hands have aided in desolating one of the fairest portions of creation. Bv a ruinous and unenlightened system of surface-plow'ing, tiie sidl from one of the 1 we- liest poi lions of God's handiwork has been swept from its base until nothing now presents itself but one vast area, stripped reci by ihe ladiss, and agricultural produc- tions. Resolred, That the proceedings ol the meet- ins be published in the Tri-Weekly Chronicle & Sectinel ; nd the Southern Cultivator, and that all other journals in Ansusta and Milledge- ville friendly to the e.' use of agriculture, be re- quested to CO]'}’ the above. J' Hx H.rRRis, President, John H. Roberts, Jr., Secretary. Jelfersou County Agricultural Society. The Jefferson Coutity Asricultnral Society offer the lldlovving list ot premiums for 1846: For the best half acre of Corn for each hand worked §1' ■2d best 5 3d and 4ih best honors Best acre of Couon . . . .So 2d best 3 3d and 4ih best . . . .Iionor^ Best acre of wheal So 2d best 3d and 4ih be.-i. . . .Iionois Best ria ( acre potatoes. 2d best I Best crdt under 2 yrs old .$5 2d best 'I Best calf under 2 )'rs old. .85 2d best 3 For the best lamb, this year’s rai-ing $.5 2d best 3 3d and 4ih best honors For Ihe be.s. bog, accord ing to age SS' 2d hesi 2 3d and 4th be.st honrjrs For the uesl iniprove- menl in malving and stockiliff plows. Besi «t igiH il iiieih od of iiMkiiig: rnaiiure sit) For the be.>t marled acre of land producin g 'be best results ■2J best 10 3d and Hh best, . , . . honors Befit to yds. of homespun (or gentlemen’s wear .^^5 ■^d best 3d and 4;h best. . . , Best 11) yards domestic Carpeting $5 2d best 3d and 4ih t est. . . . .honors For ihe best patch work bed-quilt 3 'id and d h best. . . .iionoi's Best counterpane. S5 2d best :3d and 4th best. . . . .honors For tlie best 10 yds negro cloth 2tJ best Sd and 4lh best . . . . .honors The Society has set apart S15 to be awarded tor such other articles as may be presented by ladies not enumerated in this list. A. R. Wrioht, Secretary. Fair of this Society and report at our next tnetl- ing. Messrs. J. B. Mallard, W. Q,. Baker and M. L. Jones, were appointed that Committee. Resolved, That a report of the proceedings of this day be prepared tor publication in tlie Southern Cultiv.ator, and that a copy ol the addresstleliveretl by Dr. Stevens, and tf the re- port by Mr. Jxnes, be requested for publication in the same paper. Mr. J. B. Mallard was appointed to deliver an addre.*-s at our next meeting. The Society then adjourned. W. S. Baker, Recording Secretary, I feel it due to Mr. Jones as well as to our As‘hns(nn hoih confirm. Then, the eff'Cts- cannot b? due in this case, to Lime, as there is none in clear oil ot vitriol or sulphuric acid. But in confirmation of what i have said, I will give a simple fact or two. A lew of the last days ot July, the past summer, I spent, in company with several others, as one of the viewing committee (ol the Merrimack Co. Ag. Society) on farms, &c. In rambling over the farm of A. Brown, Esq., NortbfieM, N. H., I noticed that the stones in his wall were nearly all pure vranite. I observed to him that plaster of Paris would be a good manure lor bis soil, and said, have you ever'trieil itl Yes, hesays, I have tried it, and it is uselul upon my soil, and when, we come to my cornfield, I will show you iis effects. No more said upon the subject at that time; after lo-ikingat a field of wheat and .some other crops, we came 'othe cornfield. There were four acres — a good soil — well ma- nured, and free from weeds; the corn was verv heavy; in p.assing through it, we came to four rows of very small corn, not more than hall as heavy as the rest. Upon e.xpressing our sur- prise, he informed u.s that those four rows had no plaster; the rest of the field had a teaspoon- ful of plaster dropped in each hill at the ti'ue the corn was planted, and that was all that made the diff 'rence. But some ofthe committee expressed surprise that the corn on such good land and well ma- nured, should not be any better, even if it diu not have plaster, “Oh !” says Mr. B., “ it is a great deal poorer, for the others having plaster, — the plaster draws the nitre, or air, or something irom the un plastered, and robs it.” (The thought occurred to me that this was confirming what Prot, Sprengel says ol the effect of marling al- ternate strips of land in Holstein ; the unmarl- ed strips are much less proclticive in conse- quence of marling the other strips.) But one thing is a fact: one leaspoonful of plaster on his corn, made about as much clifierence as three of guano did upon nine; and had not the whole field been any better than the unplasteied rows were, he never would ‘have entered it for a premium: that’s another fact. A lew days since I saw a son of Mr. Brown, and he inform- ed me that there was about as much difference in the corn at harvest, as there was when I saw it, the 3(>'h of July. I cannot yet believe that a teaspoonfol ol lime in the hill would have made the difference in his corn that the plaster did — but 1 will write to him to make experiments the coming season, and have no doubt that he will, and report the results. The next day I was upon the farm of Capf, S. Chadwick, in Boscawen. Flere I observed a different kind of rock and stone prevailed. — Many ol them, in the walls and about the fields, had di.sintegrated, and others were in a stale of rapid decomposition by the agency of oxygen and moisture. 1 observed to Capt. C.il^at I thought plaster was ol but little or no use upon hisfarm. “ Well, ’t is not,” says he; “I have tried it, out andout\ the money is thrown away in the purchase ofit, and the labor is lost in ap- plying it.” Prof. Hitchcock, in one of his reports upon the Geological Survey of LVIassachusetts, gives several well attested lads of the very remark- able, effects of what he terms “ muck sard. ” I'hi.s sand is strongly charged with .-ulrihiire ted hydrogen, and by its application in numerous insiance',4t effeemd wonrier*- upon various crops and plants. May not its efii cts be asciii ed to the sulphur, in combination with hydrogen, one ot the elemenis of water? Sulphniic acid is nothing but sulphur and oxvgen, the otlier ele- ment of water. No one, wiiti the least preten- sions to a knowledge ol animal and vegetable physiology, doubts ihe impmtance of phosj ho- ric acid to animals and plants : wiihout il, in combination with lim?, the wr.eat cease.s to per- lect its seed, or to be nnt 1 itious, and the young animal cannot grow. Bones are, u hen burned, nothing hut phosphoric acid and lime. Why not with jnst as much proprietv say the applica- tion of bones was but an imlirect wav of liming the soil ? The Englisli I'airners would veto such an idea. But, as I observed, if M. Bousingault is right in his theory, it is impmtant ih.al ine fact stumid be irnown ; and i will dliislraie its i'mponance. The farmers at Haverhill, N. H., and vi. initv, use many tons ot plaster every y'ear: they ob- tain it at Concord, N. PI. When ground fit for use, it costs 50 cents per cwt. The Ireighu as much more ; so that the piaster co.‘-ls lliem one centperlb.; lOOlbs, of plaster containing 33 lbs. oflime. Then it costs them $■3 per hun- dred lor the lime obt iined by the pnrc.hasecf 'planter. I presume lime at tiie kdns in Haver- hill,-N. H., can be purchased, fur half a cent per lb — and il it is f.nly the lime irt the plaster that acts, as M. Bousingault says, then ii is very important that farmers stmui i know it. It is to be wished, then, that those fanners up- on whose soil plaster exhibits such lavorable results, would make many experiments with plaster and lime— and if it shoulii prove that a teaspoonful of lime has as good an effeci as the same quaniiiy of plaster, it will save liie far- mers much money — but it will be a. sorry day to some of the Nova Scotians. Yours, truly, " Levi Bartlett. Woj-ner, N. TT., O J. 16, 1815. 62 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. iHoiiU}lt) €fli^nbar. Altered from the American Agriculturist' s Almanac for 1614, and arranged to suit the Southern States. C.4 1.IjIVDAEI for APRIL,, [The folinwing brief hinis lo the farmer, planter and gardener, will be found toapply not only to the month under which they are arranged, but, owing to diversity of seasons, climate and soils, they may frequently an- swer lor other months This precaution the consider- ate agriculturist will not fail to notice atid apply in ail cases where his judgment and experience may dictate.] Plowing may be done on all light sandy or gravelly soil, as soon as the Irost is out of the giound. But on all clay soils, their exact con- ditii'D should be observed, and if not previously plowed in the lall, as they always slwuld be, xhef must be turned over only when they are compa- latively dry. Plowing when wet mixes the soil inio a mortar, which subsequently bakes into large lumps, in which condition it remains th'ough the summer, unless beaten in pieees at great tiou le and expense. Deep plowing is too much overlooked. It should be t'he object of the farmer consianily to deepen his soil by cultivation, and in proportion as he enriches it, a small quar tiiy i f the subsoil should be bionghi up lor imimovement. By this means the roots of ihe p'ants will have greater resour- ces for lood, and before he is aware ol it, his crops vill be doubled by this system. The mowins fields should be put in order, by carry- ing offany surface uaier there may be upon thf'in ; and all ihe stones should be carefully col - cte 25 fa). .7'&) FE.VTTTERS “ lb. 23 (a) - 30 GINGF.R “ lb. in -fa) 12 GUNPO .VDEir. “ 6 00 fa)- 7 Oil Blasting “ 4 00 fa) 4-50 GLASS, 10 12 “ box 2 .50 (a) 3 oU 8 X 10 “ 2 25 (a) 3 00 IRON, Russia “ c; 5 00 fa) 6 00 Swedes, assorted. . . .i, “ cwt 4 7o (a) 5 2d Hoop. “ 7 OQ fa) 8 00 Sheet “ 00 in) 8 00 Nail Rods 5 00 fa) 7 00 LE.VD “ Ih. 6 feg ■7 I.EA'I'HER, Sole, Hemlock. . . “ 13 fa) IS Uak “ 2!) fa) 2.5 Upper “ Calfskins “ side 87 fd) 2 00 doz 12 00 fed 26 00 L ARD “ lb. 7 f3) 9 MOLASSES. N. Orleans “ gal. 30 fa) 35 Havana “ 27 fed ■31 English ^slAnd.,’ N.\TLS OILSJ.amp ‘ Linseed Tanners. . Lard. . Jb. gal. 41 1 t)l) so .ao S7 none. I & (d> 0 (a) O 6 1 2S 1 Ob 7o 1 00 t).\TS .- ; 50 62 67 PAINTS. Red Lead .. lb. 12 f3) 15 White Lead , . ke? • 2 12* fa) 2 50 Spanish Brown... ..“ lb. l3 (a) 6 Yellow 0< lire. . . . 4 0) 10. RAISINS. Malaga. . . , . , “ box 2 75 fed 3 00 Muscatel 2 00 fed 2 25 Eloom ii (k none. RICE, Prime , . “ cwt 3 75 fd) 4 50 Inferior to Good 3 50 (0) 4 00 SUGAR, New Orleans . . ** lb. 7 fed 9 Havana, wliile . . . . 11 fed 12 “ brown . . . U- ii,. 8 fa) 9 Lump 13 fed 14 Loai 14 fa) 15 D suble refined . . . 15 fed sriCE “ “ 14 fS) 18 SOAP, American, No. 1 “ “ 6 (S) .7 “ No. 2 “ “ 5 tS) ? SALT Liverpool bulk “ bush. 40 (3) 40 “ “ “ sack 1 4b (S) 1 62 STEEL, German “ lb. 12 (n) IS Blistered “ “ 8 (3) 17§ Back Volumes of the Soutlierti Cultivator. The Work complete from its commencement. Ld™ Volumes T., II. and III. of the “Southern Cultivator,” can be supplied to all who may desire the work from its commencement, at the subscription price— One Dollar each vol.mie. The back numbers of the present vojiime are sent to alt new SubscriHefs. CO^TEldTS OF THIS HUMBER. ORIGINAL PAPERS. Anniversary Oration, delivered before the Burke Countv Gentral Agricul'ural Society, by M. C. M. H-immond. (concluded.) page 49 Agricultural Address, delivered before the Lib- erty County Agricultural Society, by .1. P, Stevens “ 51 Clearing Land “ 58 Editorials — Colm'an’s European Agriculture, “ 56 Deep Plowing '. “ 56 New England Industry “ 56 Southern Independence “ 56 Hopkins' Allen PJow .* ‘= 59 Jeli'ersoM County Agricultural Society — List of Premiums “ 60 Liberty County Agricultural Society — Pro- ceedings of. » •• 60 Plantation Economy “ 57 Subsoil Plows. Com and Cob AliIJs. Sirav' Cut- ters, Large Kettles, Boiling Com for Hogs, &c. &c .' “ 58 The Right Spirit “ 57 Wai'ieu County Agricultural Society — Lislrof Piemiuras 59 SELECTIONS, EXTR.'.CTS: tC. Action of Pi.aster as a-Manure “ 61 Agricultural Improvement, Judge Rost on the Progress of ; “ 62 Agriculture in Schools, Prol. Johnslon’s*Lec- tureon — iMr. Norton’s Let ler 63 Barbour County Agricultur&l Sociery -Pro- ceedings of “ 60- Buckwheat “ 55 Calendar for Ap.-il “ 62 Economy and Industry - — -- tt 6^ I- iltering Water — Simple M thod of t‘ 51 Four and Hundred Acre Fanners, the. “ ' 55 Poultry “ 54 To the Plan ters and Farmers of So. Carolina. . ‘1 .53 Too .Much Land 63 NEW YORK AGT;fCU'£i’3Vll£/.lL YTA JFESfOVSE* Hawing Taken the c SE23SS. A GENER.AL assortment of fresh and genn- ine Gulden and Field Seed, among which -aie the -following : Red and white clover, Blue and green grass. Rye and orchard do Timothy and herds do Millet ’and Lucerne do Seed com of every valtta- Buckwhe'at & potato oats. Seed wheat, [hie variety Kept constantly pii hand by tlte subscriber, all o which are offered for sale at very moderate prices. ■All orders, by mail or otherwise, executed with neat ness and despatch. Wm Haines, Jr.) 1 No. 232, Broad-street, Amgusla, G.i. PROSPECTUS OF THE FOURTH VOLUME OF T*HE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR, A MONTHLY JOURNAL, Devoted to the Improvement of Southern Agriculf-ure, ild-ited. by JTAREtiS I5Ii£S§, BY J. P. STEVENS. Delivered before the Liberty County Agricultural Society, January 17, 1616,--[G'onftode(7.] It would ba interesting to dwell at length upon the effects resulting from proper drainage, plow- ing, hoeing, &c.,but we must be contented with a lew passing observations. The effects of draining are more percepti- ble upon tenaceous clay lands than upon a light, porous, friable soil. In the cultivation of the former, this is the first step which the planter takes preparatory to planting his grain. Pro- per drainage prevents the accumulation of stagnant water, and gives free e.xiL to the escape of large and sudden visitations from the clouds; favors the access of fresh supplies of rain wa- ter, and consequently of fresh air to the roots; washes away those no.xious accumulations which collect iniliesoil, and renders it softer and more impressiole by the roots By effec- tually resolving the hard lumps and rendering the subsoil more porous, it enables the plant to enjoy a wider range for feeding, and it facili- tates vegetation by dissipating that coldness of the soil which so often paralyzes the plant in early spring. The sanative influence of hoe- ing and plowing is no less remarkable by mi- nutely dividing the soil, encouraging the plen- tiful supply of air and water, thereby affording a due supply of oxygen, which is necessary to the decomposition of vegetable matter, the ger- mination of seeds, and maintaining the plants in a healthy condition. The destruction of weeds and insects, and extending the field ol imbibition to the roots are productive of incal- culable benefit. One ct the most judicious and economical methods of retaining the natural fertility of soils, and in the disregard of which we are guil- ty of a must flagrant sin, is ihe observance of a judicious rotation of crops. Chemical ana- lysis and experience demonstrate that the con- stituents of the soil are heterogeneous, and that what will prove detrimental to one plant affords healthy food lor another. Decandolle main- tained that plants absorb various soluble sub- stances simultaneously, and that consequently some are received which cannot be assimila- ted, and must be returned to the soil. Now it is evident that this deposition of excrements must increase in proportion to the length of time that the same crop is successively planted, and final- ly there will be an accumulation sufficient to induce total sterility. Now this very substance may be soluble and assimilable by another plant, and a twofold object will be accomplish- ed by a change. All plants require alkalies ; some in the form of silicates, others in the form of oxalates, nitrates and tartrates. Corn de- lights in phosphate of magnesia and silicic acid, and an analysis * of the cotton plant dis- covers, in matter soluble in wider, a predomi- nance of 44 per cent, of the carbonate of potash, as well^ as 9 per cl, each of the sulphate and mu- riate of potash; the phosphates of lime and mag- nesia, and the carbonate of lime are also found in variable proportions. Thus we see, that an alternation between even these two varieiiesof produce alone will be followed by beneficial re- sults; for what one plant is found to reject, an- other receives. In the older countries of the Eastern world two successive crops of a simi- *Seabrook’3 Memoir on the Cotton Plant, lar kind are never permitted to grow upon the same soil. In Belgium, we are informed * that the rotation of crops upon a portion of land re- markable for its fertility, which had not receiv- ed any manure for twelve years, is as follows : Beans, barley, potatoes, winter barley with red clover, winierbarley, wheat, oats; during the 9th year it was allowed to lie fallow. By the lOth year it was probably capable of}delding as boun- tifully as during the first. By pursuing this sys- tem judiciously, you will perceive that no limits can be assigned to the fertility of lands. We are blessed with a soil which is unsurpassed in natural productiveness by that of scarcely any other country, and yet the controlling principle with us is to impose upon its resources by a most shamelul and suicidal policy until iis trea- sures are actually irrecoverably exhausted. The necessity for alternation may in a great measure be obviated by the application of a sufficient amount and of appropriate kinds of manure. The aid of chemistry is here advan- tageously employed in discovering the actual amount of sustenance abstracted from the soil, and exactly that kind and quality which is re- quired to be returned. As animals are depend- ent upon vegetables for their maintenance and growth, it is reasonable lo suppose that the same chemical combinations which existed in the latter will be eliminated in some state by the former. The process of the decay of animal matter liberates carbonic acid, water and am-, monia. It has been already remarKed, that each of these constituents, singly or in combi- nation, furnish abundant food for plants. The last principle, ammonia, is found abundantly in the various effiuvia of animals in the form of a carbonate; it is an object then to know how to make it available. By the addition to our ma- nure heaps of sulphate of lime, known by the name of gypsum, or plaster of Paris, a compa- ratively cheap substance, we have the forma- tion of sulphate of ammonia and carbonate of lime, fixed substances, and therefore transfera- ble, Innumerable are the agents which are employed for increasing the value and produc- tiveness of land. In the laboratory ol the che- mist there is scarcely an atom in nature which may not be made to yield some available prin- ciple. Man, in his insatiable appetite for gain, is not even contented to guide the lightning in its wild, erratic course, but even compels elec- tricity itself to contribute to his comfort and convenience. Indeed, it has been affirmed by one of the most gifted minds of the age, “that the time will come when plants will be manured with a solution of glass, with the ashes of burnt straw, and with the salts of phosphoric acid, prepared in chemical mannfaeiories, exactly as medicines are given for fever and goitre.’ ’ And now, gentlemen, having taken a very cur- sory glance at the lights which men of science have thrown upon the efforts of the cultivators of the soil, permit me to inquire why it is that we are so far behind the age 7 Why are we so lethargic upon a subject which is agitating the whole civilized world? Why is it that we are contented lo grovel and plod in the steps of those who have marked out a course for themselves, fifty years since ? Why is it that having treated with contempt the munificence of a kind Pro- vidence by destroying the productiveness of a rich and fertile soil, instead of employing some of our lime and talents in assisting and impro- * Liebig’is Agricultaral Chemistty, ving upon nature ; like tf e Arabs of the deiC-, nay, like ihe herds of the field, we migrate from place to place ? Do you say that our country is rich and boundless in territory. Europe, with her scores of millions of human beings, is groaning under her heavy burthen. Is it possi- ble for ihe imagina"' m to poj’f'"'y'' . ..GiOuntot wretchedness and misery which would neces- sarily follow gome tremendous political agita- tion or adversity of seasons. Even under the wisest lesiislation, and when enjoying the smiles of Heaven, how awfully deplorable is the con- dition ol myriads of miserable paupers, who drag out an existence of the most squalid po- verty, in many instances, of abject want! Can we not pr diet the time wffien even our country will be exf.eriencingthe force of similar circumstances? “Blessed by Heaven o’er all the world beside,” the policy of our legislation ex- tending an indiscriminate invitation to the op- pressed of evety land to participate in our joys, with an increase of seventeen millions of peo- ple since our political birth-day, who will not venture the assertion that the millions of acres of desert pine lands, marshes and lens, now sole- ly tenanted by beasts and aquatic birds, will be compelled, at no distant dav, to unbosom their treasures in obedience to the calls of science and art. The inducements to the larmer for de- votion to the study and practice ol his art are superior to that ot almost any other pursuit in. life. What are called the learned professions occupy, each of them, responsible and appro- priate positions in society, but the practice of them IS unceriain and unsatisfactory, from the fact that the source from which support is sought after is the vacillating and changing na- ture of man. It has been said with much truth , that nothing repays more bountifully and readi- ly than the willing soil: and in what beautiful and harmonious concert are the graces and vir- tues ol the heart nurtured and cherished! Bound by a community of interests, each by en- riching the products ol his own farm conduces to the well being of his neighbor. Removed from the cares and perplexities of public life, an overweening mania lor notoriety not having poisoned the fountain of every ennobling senti- ment, enjoying in rich profusion the munifi- cence of Nature, witnessing the dear pledgesof his affection growdog up in heabh, beauty and wisdom around him, he is among the happiest and most highly favored of men. As an il- lustration of the charms which invest rural life, refer to the present occupations of the greatest statesmen of the age. The Sage of Linden wold, and the venerable and gifted Farm- er of Ashland, having occupied the highest po- sitions in the councils of the nation, battled manfully and gloriously in preserving the peace and permanency ol our confederacy, have thrown aside the mantles of honor and respon- sibility to indulge in the pleasures of fields and pasture lands. When the glorious achieve raents of generals and statesmen shall have been consigned to oblivion, the splendid disco- veries ol Davy, Liebig, Johnston, Decandolle, Chaptal and Bousingault, will be preserved in living monuments as trophies ol their greatness and beneficence. As a favorable indication of increasing zeal in the cause of agriculture as exhibited in our community, we regard the organization of this Society. United effort in the pursuit of any de- finite ol^2t ea|i alone ensure success. Stri= 66 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. ving for the attainment of the same end, divest- ed ot sectional jealousies and political animos- ities, we convene at stated periods for the pur- pose of exchanging views in relation to the best means ot advancing the interests of the plant- er, But how exceedingly small is the number of names enrolled upon our catalogue in com- parison with the population of our almost ex- clusively agricultural community. Can this be ascribed to a want of intelligence, and a due appreciation of the advantages which are des- tined to result from our Association 7 Most cer- tainly not. Is it a consciousness of incapacity to contribute to the literature ol the Society 7 This idea, though exceedingly prevalent, is none the less erroneous. Wedeal in facts, we search after facts, we wish the results of observation and experience, and certainly these can becom- municated orally, or in a colloquial style. The simple truth that our ideas are clothed in language tinselled with classical purity and lo- gical accuracy, invests them with actual im- portance only so far as they originate ov substan- tiate facts. There are none then who do not possess the ability to add to the importance of correct principles. Some declare that they will not connect themselves and participate, but will wait and see what good emanates from our deliberations, and then they will reap the benefits resulting therefrom. Such a declara- tion as this needs no commentary. It speaks for itself. Others urge in vindication of their apathy, that they are doing well enough, and care not for information. They, indeed, may congratulate themse'ves upon their good for- tune. But it is conceded by all that there are certain duties which we owe to society, and as social beings we are bound to discharge them . There are many who will contribute to the preparation of a convivial banquet with a view to advance the interests ot political demagogues, inflaming the passions of men, thrusting fire- brands in a community, yet when the special object of an Associatien is to conciliate good feeling and tranquilize the popular tumult, they are stricken w ith paralysis. But, gentlemen of the Society, can it be expected that the attention ot others will be arrested when we are so le- thargic and desponding 7 Is it not a notorious and lamentable fact (hat the mere shadow of an apology is eagerly sought after by man}" as a plea for neglecting to attend the regular meet- ings of the Association. The paucity of our numbers urges the strongest inducement for punctuality and alacrity in the performance of the duties which are assigned us. Was there ever an Association worthy of attention which, in its infancy, did not meet with discouraging embarrassments 7 It seems to be a governing principle with the human mind, to oppose inno- vations, Among our countrymen of the North we see that the public mind has been alive to the importance of this subject. Individual and State Associations render reciprocal aid in en- forcing upon popular attention the necessity lor general action. The consequence is, that the reeky plains cuf the Atlantic coast are seen teem- ing with the foliage, and ultimately the fruits, of the Western prairie. Persevering, indefatiga- ble industry and unwavering zeal characterize their efforts. And it is only needful to refer to a lew statistics to exhibit more forcibly the re- wards which follow such determination.* It has been computed that the average value of exports from this to European countries, during a decennial period included between the years 1821 and 1831, may be estimated at $53,000,000. From this aggregate we may assign the relative value of articles exclusively of Southern pro- ductions, viz : cotton, rice and tobacco, to be S33,000,000 in round numbers, this will leave lor the North a remainder of only $20,000,000, with nearly double the amount of population. With regard to the import trade we will merely present a contrast between the then rival States. In 1821 the value of the import trade of New York was $23,000,000; in 1829, $43,000,000; in 1821 that ot Virginia amounted to Si, 078,- 000 ; in 1829, S375,000. Thus we see that the * Southern Agticulturist, Vol. II, April No , 1838. value of imports at the South in comparison with the exports is exceedingly small. It will be recollected that in the year 1769, anterior to the Revolution, the import trade of Virginia exceeded that of New York by nearly eight times, while in 1829 the imports of the latter exceeded that of the former by upwards ol one hundred times ! Here then we have a vivid and forcible illustration upon an extended scale, of the necessity for vigorous and untiring as- siduity in the promotion of individual as well as national prosperity and importance. Let us then move forward and extend a cordial wel- come to all who will unite with us in main- taining an Association, the direct object of which is, the promotion of the comfort and hap- piness of all classes of community. FARM MAINAGE MENT; OR PRACTICAL HINTS TO A Y0CNG BEGINNER. From the South Carolinian. I take advantage of a rainy day, to fulfil my promise to answer your queries about the con- duct of your farm. If you will permit me, I will give you a general and detailed view also of the manner in w'hich I would manage your place, and en passant, shall probably answer all your inquiries. You have 80acresof woodland, and 60 acres cleared, besides your garden, orchard, and vineyard, and four hands to work — two of them being women. In clearing, ditching, rail- splitting, lifting, &c., you will find women of little use. In all other farming operations they are equal to men, and in some of them superior. As to working out doors, most of them prefer it, and are healthier than house servants. No ne- groes, however, should work out in bad weath- er, or at night. Humanity dictates this, but sound economy demands it. You should add to this force a smart boy of 14 years old; or per- haps and elderly man, say 45 to 50, would be better. He should have a good mule and cart; his employment all the time to collect materials for manure, feed your stock, go to town, &c., &c. You w'ill perhaps find it requisite in time to have tw"o hands of this kind. As wood is valuable, and becoming more so, 1 would not just now clear any land, or be in too great a huiry to cut down any wood. You will find dead M'ood enough to answer all your do- mestic purposes, accruing annually on 90 acres. As you are convenient to a town, the market ot which is miserably supplied with provisions, I would make the farm what may be called a market farm, and raise nothing but what is de- manded for town consumption. Time and ex- perience must suggest the most profitable crops to you. In the mean time, however, I recom- mend the following : Divide your 60 acres into two lots— one of50, the other of 10 acres. Plant your 50 acres in corn, early in March, as soon as the equinox has exhausted itself, which it usually does by or before the 15th. Corn is the king of vegeta- bles, and worth all others put together. Our farming operations have long been impeded by running after grasses, grains, &c., — none of which do well below our upper cotton districts — while we have neglected corn, which may be cultivated and used in a great many ways, and as a substitute for every thing else, that potatoes will not supersede. This 50 acres of corn land I would manure every year with not less than 100 bushels of manure per acre, and 500 if pos- sible. I would certainly make the greatest ef- forts to get Oil it 300 bushels as soon as possi- ble. Thus manured, by the second crop, it will make you 40 bushels per acre— certainly by the 3rd. Plant it 5 by 3 feet, reducing to 4 by 3, and ultimately 4 by 1 as it grows richer — always put- ting in peas the wide way, between the 20ih May and the 20th J une — the 1st June best time. If you will thus manure it, you will need no ro- tation. In fact, I don’t believe in rotation. All plants, with the exception of aquatic ones, use pretty much the same food. The texture of the soil and the climate, both may have specific ef- fects, and difierence ofculture may have a slight influence also. But my only rotation is rest ; and if you will constantly supply additional food lor your crop, the very same kind will grow and flourish on the .same spot to the end of time. If you will add 100 bushels manure per annum, you may plant corn on your 50 acres for life, and if yon add 300 to 500, it will soon double and quadruple the product. Two plows and two hoes will tend your 50 acres like a garden. Two acres per day may be plowed by each hot se, and as many hoed by each hand. Allow'- ing for contingencies, it will be plowed and hoed every fifteen days, from 1st April to 1st June, when it should be plowed no more, but thoroughly hoed for the last time. If the season has been dry and backward, so that your corn is small, and the main grass crop has not been killed, you must w'ork it longer: but then some ofthe previous workings will for the same rea- son have been omitted. Four plowings and four hoeings are as many as will do corn good, and your evidence of judgment will be in giv- ing them at the proper time, according to the seasons, never working when very wet or very dry. Prepare your land by spreading your ma- nure on it early in January, and then break it up thoroughly and deep— 6 inches at least. There i.s an endless variety of plow's. I do not believe there is any better one lor breaking up (w'hich is also the cheapest and simplest,) than the Boatw'right plow, invented by your townsman. I tried it many years ago, gave it up to go the rounds ol Yankee inventions, and because it went rather deep I have now' come back to it again. Your land can be broken up by two plows in 25 days, say by 20th February. Then lay it off flat, or with the smallest possible bed, made by three furrow's ot bull-tongues the wide way. Flat culture, however, is the best lor corn. Plant it flat, and w'ork it flat. Never soak your seed. Plant only the butt end half of your best ears, and only one grain in a hill. You save corn and thinning by this. You cannot save re-planting, do as you will, and this should be attended to as early as possible, wiihout wait- ing too long for it to come up. Late corn is seldom worth anything, and replants after 10th April are ot little account. As soon as your corn is well out of the ground, run a sweep on each side of it, as near it as you can. This is commonly done by bull-tongues, and if your land has not been thoroughly and deeply bro- ken up, they are best. But it should be so bro- ken, and then I would afterw'ards use no- thing but asw'eep; and, contrary to the com- mon practice, I never w'ould put any more dirt to it than they throw. The dirt injures mate- rially for a time, but it kills grass and saves hoeing — but you will be strong in hoes. You can run round 7 acres a day, or eight with two plow’s. This finished, turn them, and run one furrow in the centre, the narrow way. After this, you can spare your plows a few days from the corn, and put the hands at hoeing, if behind in that line, or to making manure. As soon as the young grass springs’, or in eight or ten days any how, run three to four furrows the wide wayandsweep it out completely, and then hoe it thoroughly. This is the second and most important working. You have one or two moie to give, according to circumstances. Plant peas before the last working, so that they may have the advantage of it. Nothing but a hoe should go into corn after it begins to tassel. Your 50 acres, thus manured, and thus worked, will soon give you a crop of 2,000 bushels of corn , and 2 to 300 of peas. Your ten acres I would thus divide ; two acres in turneps, two in sweet potatoes, one in ground nuts, one in Jerusalem Artichokes, and the ether four in rye, and, if you like, wheat. The first six, and that in wheat, should have at least 500 bushels of manure. If you can lime, or marl and plaster them, so much the better. One in- valuable manure you can readily command — bones. Have two large wooden mortars dug out, with an iron plate 6 by 6 inches fa.stened in the bottom. Use a crow bar for a pestle, and beat up all the bones you can collect to th'" THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 67 size of a marble. A hand will beat three bu- shels of a rainy day. Get a coarse wheat grain silterand sift them all: 10 per cent, will be fine enough to mis with ashes, and put in your tur- nep drills. Spread the rest broadcast, 20 bu- shels at least to the acre— 100 if you can — and then be patient till you see the second cvo'^. On the turneps certainly, and if possible, on the po- tatoes, I would put bones at the rate of 25 bu- shels per annum, or 100 lor four years. Ot course every thing else will be much benefitted by it. Turneps are a valuable vrinter and spring food for cattle and hogs, being cooling and diuretic. They would be invaluable to us, as they are to others, if our sweet potatoe was not far better and more easily grown. I have lost three stands ot turneps by the fly this fall, and shall put in the fourth as soon as it holds up, though it is too late to make any thing but tops. It is a very uncertain crop. As to car- rots, beets and Irish potatoes, never think of planting them outol your garden. By great care you may then raise an inferior article lor your table, or lor early marketing, but never enough to feed a cow, if you planted ten acres of them. They do not belong to our clime — nor do turneps, in anything like perfection. And those wdio work against nature must pay for it, as those do w'ho grow pine apples at St. Petersburg. I count that your four hands can till these crops as well as your 50 acres ; but re- member, they will not bear neglect. Every spear of grass in your potatoe patch is one potato gone, at least. I am of opinion that potatoes should be planted in very small beds, and not until you have a breathing lime in your corn crop. They will do just before your first work- ing, or after your second. The common but ve- ry erroneous opinion is, that they must be plant- ed the first thing. They will do best I believe, planted last of April or 1st of May. Pindars are very prolific and very valuable. You may dig for seed or for market what you can sell, and fatten your hogs on them, the arti- chokes, and remains of potatoes after digging. Read about Ariichokes. But I find I have omilted one important item. One O' the acres I have given you lor grain I must take back, ft must be sown in forage corn, which will be woith 20 acres of rye or wheat, or oats, for provender. Pul 500 bushels ot manure on it, lay off drills, 2 to 2i feet, drill your corn (early) as thick as you can, and run a small plow through it two or three times to keep down the grass. Cut it down in the silk, and you may count on, if a fair season, 20.000 lbs. of dry forage of the best quality, or 100.000 lbs. of crreen. This and your shucks will furnish an ample supply of the most nutri- tious forage for all your cows and horses the year round, and enable you to sell every blade of your (odder— say 30,000 lbs — off your fifty acres of corn. Tkis is no fable. Now lor the main points: You must keep up your hill-side ditches. Study that matter close- ly, and see to it minutely. If you let the water wash away your soil it will carry with it.all the gold it contains, or that you can put on it. This point secured, the next is how to get the manure which my plan requires— say 30,000 bushels. 1st. Fill your stables, stable yard, cow and bog pens one foot deep with straw and leaves. Do it instantly. Manure, like interest, makes day and night, and an hour lost is lost forever. Don’t take up the idea of a little, and good. Make as much as possible, and if you can only gel into trash, dung and urine enough to act as leaven, put it on your land; nature will do the rest. Once fermentation is started, the work is done. After putting on one loot of leaves, &c., you must add a little from time to time lor the comfort of your animals, until you find the sta- bles, &c., inconveniently full. Then clean out, and heap it up in a wet time, and sprinkle a few bushels of plaster (no lime) over it; and, if you can, give a coalof muck six inches thick. Co- ver it with a shed besides if convenient. The plaster and muck, however, will save nearly all the gases; and if you were to put one or Doth of these on your yards and stables, from time to time, so much the better. By this plan you may make 1,000 bushels for each bead of horses and cows, and 200 for each hog. But this may not be half what you want : Then, 2nd. You must go to composting. Get all the offal from the slaughter houses v/hich are convenient to you. Make arrangements to get the blood, which is invaluable. Get hair, horns, hoofs, bones, dung, everything. It will be leaven. Supply to it leaves in abundance, and let it cook them. Get all the dead carcas- ses about town. One dead mule or cow will make you 500 bushels of the best manure, if you will cover it with mud and leaves. I have no means of estimating the quantity you can make in this way, but it must be great. If, however, you have not enough yet, then 3J. Go to Russell —buy JBommer’s patent — make Russell teach you how to use it in the most economical manner, and then make out and out enough manure to complete your 30,- 000 bushels, lor 30,000 you must have to carry on your farm in perfection. As to stock: The best foreign herd for us is the Ayrshire. Taylor and Hampton both have it; but if you cannot procure it from them, Dr. J. B. Davis can tell you where it may be ob- tained in Fairfield. 1 couldgive you a half blood bull, and perhaps in time a full blood of the best of that stock. I am inclined to think the foreign stock crossed on the native is the best. Four to six cows you might keep; perhaps less would serve. The question would be whether most could be made by selling provender, or selling butter. Two cows you might feed on offal of the place, and you would hardly feel it. Peas, turneps, potatoes, &c., all answer well. Don’t have any more stock than you kecy-. atl the time and feed. They give double the milk when confined, and you have their manure. To milk two cows you must have about four. As to hogs, 1 am entirely out with all the im- proved breeds. They can’t stand our climate. 1 have cultivated them until I have nearly lost my stock. 1 have never seen them thrive, ex- cept when two or three sows are kept about the yard, and perhaps your best plan would be to procure, say three Berkshire so'ws, and let them have the run of your stable and other lots, with tree access to water. These three ought to give you 20 killing hogs per annum, which would be an ample supply of bacon. One hog of 150 lbs. for each month, little and big, is a fair calculation. I recommend these small beginnings in the slock line, because they are very expensive ar- ticles. They eat enormously, and niust be well fed to do well, and unless one has a great deal of experience and manages well, he will soon find they cost more than they come to. Nothing is easier than to lose money by cattle and hogs. Sheep would be a nuisance to you. They suit aone but those who have large old fields and idle pasture lands in abundance, and are very troublesome and unprofitable then. Hampton has the best stock of them in America. When droves come in this winter you may purchase a few at $1,50, on which you can try your hand. You see in all my calculations I give the go- by to grains. In some situations, and in some soils, they do well. But you see how I esti- mate them in comparison with forage corn. If you had mills near that were prepared to grind flour fit to use, you might, from a couple of acres, well manured, grow your supplies. But it would be more trouble than profit. I have fine mills and am pretty well prepared, and shall for the first time this year sow wheat— 4 acres. Besides this, I have in two acres of rye, for calf pasture. I have not sown an oat in two years, and never will again. I have sowed as largely as 350 acres at once, I would prefer 10 acres of forage corn to the whole 350. Where nothing else can be made with profit, grain may be tried. But you are too near market. You can sell every bushel of corn at 50 cents, ave- raging one year with another; or you may buy poor stock ot all kinds, feed away your corn, &c., and sell them at the close of shad lime, when beef, &c,, always bears the best price. You might easily clear a spot in the branch and grow your own rice. Half an acre would suf- fice. You might on one of your ten acres grow Spanish tobacco with great profit in a small way, and time will alsodevelope to you a great many changes for the better in the plan 1 sug- gest. In the meantime, on this plan your farm will be greatly improving, and ready for any change you may desire, I only propose a scheme for starling you. 1 think you will want six handsto make your crop andyourmanure,and four horses or mules, a small wagon, two carts, three Boatwright plows, two bull-tongues, four sweeps. It would no doubt be the greatest advantage to all your land to subsoil it. By writing to A. B, Allen, of New York, editor of the American Agricul- turist, fan excellent $1 paper,) you can get a small one for two horses— such as I have got from him, at something underSlO, delivered. It will be worth your while to subsoil, if only 10 acres annually. Alter looking at your letter I return a moment to hogs. My trial of pens this year has not been a fair one, owing to the extraordinary heat and drought. On the v/hole, the hogs have done as well in the pens as in the woods, perhaps a little better. They have consumed more food, but the manure pays the difierence. 1 shall try them another year, but on a different system — in lots, witn running water, rather than pens — feeding them under a shelter well littered, where they will be sure to spend most of their leisure time, and yield me a fair share of manure. In food, hogs require frequent change, when not permitted to run out. Boiling is best, on the whole, but they lire of it. You may boil any- thing, peas, corn, turneps, potatoes, meal, tSrc. — and those are the things to feed them on, with a little fodder or cured corn stalks, rotten wood, charcoal, &c. — salting well and giving salts oc- casionally. Three sows in your lots would scarcely require more than the shattered corn and wastages. The pigs, as soon as weaned, should be kept to themselves, and the killing hogs to themselves. But in the small stock I recommend you to keep, I would make n» di- vision unless some of them proved mischie- vous. Let the sows pig in a secure sheltered place, and remain there separate from the rest lor a few days. As to woodland pasture, it will be found of great service from time to time, for dry cattle, jaded mules, hogs, &c. Its chief value will be in furnishing leaves for manure. No grains or grasses will, in this climate, grow in it to ad- vantage, without being thinned so as to destroy its value for wood — that is, taking off so much thai none could be cut without clearing it. Wood is to be cherished, and is more valuable where you are than grass pastures. Your idea of landscape gardening is a delight- ful one. Of course it would not be profitable, except in as much as it added to the permanent value of the place. Still, as far as you might feel inclined to indulge in it as a luxury, 1 would commend you to go. Money is a good thing, but a man is a fool who runs alteritas an end. It is a species of insanity. As a means, to what end could you devote it more likely to increase your happiness than in gravelled walks, terra- ces, and glorious bowers of native oakl Remedy for Lockjaw. — Having seen in the Argus of the 2lst, an account of the death of the son of Mr. Andrews Wasson, from lockjaw from a nail accidentally run into his foot, I w'ould state for the benefit of those afflicted from similar causes, that a common cent, or a piece of copper bound firmly upon the wounded part, and in actual contact with it, will cause almost immediate and entire relief, and cause the wound to speedily heal, whether it be made by rusty nail, steel instrument, splinter, or any other cause, either in foot, hand or other part of the body. N. B. Rusty or tarnished copper is prefera- ble to bright copper, though either will answer. 68 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR Fiom the Southern Planter. SjElCEP. By fishing in the sea of “stufi,” with which oar agricultural papers are filled, v.’e are some- times enabled to catch up a sensible, practical article like the following, taken Irom the “North Carolina Farmer,” a paper lately started at Ra- leigh, which we would most heartily commend to the attention ol our Southern friends. A thorough knowledge ot the sheep business would be as good as fitty thousand dollars to any man in Western Virginia : Mr. Lemay: Sir, — I have seen one or two ar- ticles in your new paper on the subject of rais- ing wool in this State. I have no practica 1 know- ledge of wool-raising in so warm a climate a North Carolina enjoys, especially in the Eastern part of the State. There are impediments in every department of husbandry to retard enter- prise ; but I feel sure that wool raising has as few drawbacks as most branches of employ- ment. The hindrances may be summed up as follows, viz: 1. Climate and food. 2. The diseases of sheep. 3. Necessary piotection to sheep. 1. The Climate of North Carolina is in many respects similar to that of Spain, where the raising of wool has long prevailed as a sta- ple. Much ot the imported wool of the United Staiea has been brought from Spain. The lati- tude of the two countries is not the same, but the coldness of the Western Continent renders the climate much the same. The high or moun- tain districts of Spain produce the greater por- tion of the wool, and it is probable that the same is to be the case in North Carolina. It is a notorious fact that the Northern latitudes are the best adapted to the grov/ih of wool. Scot- land and the more northerly parts of middle Eu- rope raise the greater part of the wool for Eng- lish manufactures. The nature of sheep leads them to the hills as much as the forest courts the instinct of the bird. In cold w^eather sheep leave the fold and wander to some elevated spot to graze, and will only leave it in very severe weather. Sheep should never be housed; an open shelter, closed on three sides, open on the South, ought to be the enclosure in cold weather. Horned cattle ought never to be kept in the same enclosure; yet sheep will pick much alter both horses and horned cattle ; per- haps a farmermay save halfihefeedofhissheep by allowing them to pick after his other slock; but never let them graze together or to be acces- sible to hogs in time of having young lambs. — Sheep, if healthy, are a hardy animal. The question, whether North Carolina has a suitable climate, and the proper food to sustain large flocks of sheep on small portions of land, is unsettled; for I hold practical e.\perience to be the only answer admissible to questions of so much importance. That sheep do flourish and do well, in small flocks, in all parts of the State, is indisputable; as I have seen them in all sec- tions, from the sea coast to the mountains. — Sheep of the common wool kind, have been made to yield on an averase eight pounds per head tor the whole flock ot thirty sheep; and in one in- stance as high as sixteen pounds of wool was sheared from one sheep. A farmer ought to be satisfied with from four to six pounds per head, unless he uses more than ordinary care. Every branch of industiy yields a profit only to labor and attention. If you read the mode of tillage that brought an unusual crop ot wheat or corn, you find the land was plowed deep, subsoiled, rolled, harrowed, manured and worked over and over, again and again. A man that wishes to raise a good field of corn must get up at daylight and see every thing right, and his land must be kept all the time loose ; so if he raises sheep, he must be up at all times and see them often. — Salt them, have good shade trees in his fields, or make shelters open on all sides in the sum- mer. There is a fly peculiar to sheep pastures, besides the excessive warmth of their wool, that rendersgood shades necessary ; perhaps an open 00 a hill i« the best shelter in summer. The only valid objection to raising wool of a fine quality, is the changing temperature of spring. Sheep, if not sheared, would shed their coats annually. The wool matures by the end of autumn, and the new crop commences its growth as soon as the Iresh grass of spring has stimulated the sheep, and produced that change that all snimals experience at this season of the year. This new growth is s parate in its film from the old coat, and if cut off with it ruins the whole fleece for making any fine fabric, as the new growth in carding, works up into knots and pervades the whole texture, producing weak- ness or rottenness. Cloth made from wool of such a character is of inferior value. This drawback is owing to the long spring. Sheep cannot, with safety, be sheared before May ; grass often puts forth in March, and sometimes in February, it did so in 1842. In the Wes- tern portions of the Stale this evil is not so like- ly to befall wool raisers — as the spring is later and more abrupt. The only remedy for this evil is to feed the sheep from the barn and not let them pick grass so early, yet this would be but a partial remedy, the w'arm weather would stimulate reaction and produce a change of constitution. To introduce a fine, well reared stock, ol ei- ther sheep or domestic animals into a district where farmers are unacquainted with the mode of treatment to which they have before been ac- customed, is toquadruple the disadvantages un- der which the trial or experiment is to be made. In the first place the animal must undergo ac- climation, if he change latitude, or even if he be but removed from the north to the south side of a range ol elevated land a few miles, ox vice versa — or if from the east to the west, and the contrary. .Besides climate, the change of food owing t^different soils, and the change ot na- ture, all conspire to derange the constitution ; and all changes are for the worst. The native stocks of hogs, cattle, horses, etc., are always best to rear from, and it is but a species of mo- nomania tor any man to attempt to change the entire stock ol any couniry, or even district of country at once. The change must be gradual and keep pace with the knowledge ot the na- ture, habits and character ot the newly intro- duced breeds. 1 v.'ould not be understood as discouraging the introduction of superior ani- mals among us — far otherwise; I would foster the enterprise by every wise and practicable means or justifiable expense. Daily experi- ence teaches us that the correct way to improve stock, IS to do it gradually. I would suggest this rule as the safest way of procedure to any man who desires to improve his stock, viz; to first take some good agricultural paper lor 12 months and there read carefully the best means to improve his farm, (lor sure as he is living, improved stock comes Irom improved farms;) after he has read and practised improvea farm- ing, tried a It'w new grasses, and has put a lew acres in clover to feed his pigs, calves and lambs on, then he may safely order a fine blood- ed bull, boar and buck to range among his cows, sows and sheep at the proper season. And on the subject of the right time of the year, (or al- lowing the free intercourse ol bucks and ewes much of the success ol sheep rearing depends. The bucks should be kept up unlit such lime as will effectually prevent the too early produc- tion of lambs in the spring. In any effort lo rear a fine anima], care nrust be taken from the very first that it does not become stunted. More depends on the first year’s growth, in any animal, than ever after. If the animal is neg- lected the first year of its growth, give it up and try another. In adopting the native stock to rear from, we have all the produce of native and sound con- stitution and not liable to the vicissitudes of climate. Most, it not all, the discredit ot the Berkshire humbug, as some call it, would have been avoided by observing the above method — of first learning what sort of food is most suit- able to the animal, and having it provided ready when he first needed it. Sir, agriculture and ' Improvement of stock must go band in band. The food of improved slock has been of a very superior grade to that grow'ing on our worn-out hills and old fields. The imported sheep have been nursed with great care by per- sons who are shepherds in fact, and it we are to raise sheep, we too must turn shepherds. It will never do to say to every negro, do so and so through the spring, and so and so through the summer, and so on lor the year with my sheep; but every man must daily inspect his sheeptold ; (tor such he must have, secure from without and w'ithin,) he must look to bis flock carefully; ifoneissick it must be separated from the flock and taken the strictest care of. It must be separated from the flock, because most diseases of sheep are contagious or at least contaminating, and liable to inlect the whole flock more or less — as the old adage has it — “ one smutty nosed sheep will spoil the whole flock.” There is more truth than ficlicD in the old saying. It must be nursed, because the constitution of sheep soon sinks under disease ; and if once a flock of sheep become weakly and sickly, it runs out. There is no restoring a pu- ny flock of sheep. The food for a better flock of sheep than w’e now have must be commen- surate with the grade. The finer the breed of sheep the more delicate the nature of the animal and the greater care must be taken ol it. Sheep must be sustained at all seasons of the year. It is the nature ol sheep to graze, and in North Carolina they can do so most of the year. In the winter a lew oats are the best support weak sheep can have. On the subjectot diet and dis- eases, every sheep raiser should be provided with a full treatise. It costs but little, and is of the first importance — buy one. Mr. Lemay, I will give you something on the protection of sheep, soon. Yours, &c., Wake Counly^ Nov. 12, 1845. M. R. From the Boston Courier. BREEDING ANIMAfi. S. The New York Courier & Enquirer of the 19th Jan., in a notice of the Farmei’s Librarj', for January, (a periodical conducted by J. S. Skin- ner, and published by Greeley &. McElrath,) has the follewing : The peculiarity of this number is in the disco- very which it announces — and a treatise on which discovery is forthwith to be published in its pages — that ihe quality and quantity of milk which a cow will give cun be unerringly ascertain- ed by external marks and appearances on ihe ani- mal. The value of such a discovery is obvious, tor since it costs just as much to keep a bad cow as a good one, and as by care in guarding them from intermixture, good races can be perpetua- ted— this discovery will at once consign bad miieh cows to the butcher, and with advantage all round— for the tendency tofatti n whic!! suits the sb' mbles, is one of the causes which render cov's indiflerent milkers.” There will be many an incredulous reader of the above paragraph, many who, as the transla- tor ot the work about lo appear in the Faimei’s Library says — will exclaim, “nonsense! who can believe any such thing 7 Y hat ! by merely lookingjht a cow to be able to tell hew niuchnii k she is capable of being made to yield !” — but the fact is even eo. It is of French origin, and the treatise, of which the translation is now to be laid before tlue readers of this periodical, isby i\I. Francis Gue- non— the translator is Wr. N. P. Trist, late Uni- ted States Consul at Havana, and a gentleman of accomplished mind. Y'hen the discovery was announced in France it attracted the notice of the chief Agricultural Societies, committees w^ere apuointed to investi- gate it, and on being satisfied that it is what it professes to be, a most important step in know- ledge, gold medals were awarded 'o the discover- er. Mr. Trist in his preface adds, that having explained the subject to one of our countrymen quite conversant with cattle, his curiosity was aw’akened — he took notes of the particular marks and indications, and after an absence of some weeks returned, saying, “ that thing is as true as a book. Since I was here I have looked at more cows than you ever saw, and I am perfectly sat- isfied the thing is just as the Frenchman said.” The proprietors of the Farmer’s Library have THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 69 taken out a copy-right for this translation, which therefore can only appear in its pages. We have not seen the number of the Farm- er’s Library, to which reference is made in the preceding quotation, and as we are not a subscri- ber, we may not see the forthcoming number, which is to contain the promised copy-right translation; but we have some reason to sup- pose that the “ discovery” alluded lo is nothing more nor less than a developement of what Col, Jaques of the Ten Hills in Somerville, has suc- cersfully practised for many years. That Col. Jaques can breed animals to order, is a fact well known to the farmers of this region, and he has never doemed it necessary to take out a copy- right for his theory. He was at the New York State Fair, at Albany, in 1343, and there spoke freely of his method of breeding animals, and described the process, which, with him, had al- ways been successful. In the New York He- rald ol October 4, 1842, is an article on this sub- ject, from which the following is an extract : " Breeding Animals to Order. — Coming down from Albany we hadtne pleasure of an interview with the celebrated Col. Jaques, of the Ten Hills Farm, near Boston. He was present at the fair, and was chairman of the committee on na- tive cattle. He is said to be the best judge of animals — animals of all kinds — from the mouse up to the horse — that there is in the country. He is the breeder of the famous Cream Pot Cows, four quarts of whose milk vyill make a pound of butte! — and the cream of which he guarantees publicly or privately to convert into butter within a minute’s time — he has done it before the members of the Jlassachusetts Legis- lature. Hejhas some curious notions, in which some people think him rather enthusiastic, par- ticularly in the matter of breeding animals to or- der. For example, he guarantees to breed 20 cows tj order, either red, white, black, speckled, ring-streaked, or striped, with horns, either long or short, straight, or turned up or lopped — with large bags or small, and of any color— [he is now breeding a lot with yellow bags and mahogany colored teats] — with wide backs upon which you may lay a bushel of corn without its rolling off, or so narrow as not to hold a single kernel. In short, he will breed you animals to order, and is a perfect LL. D. in the matter of crossing breeds. He breeds all his Cream Pot Cows with a deep red body, white faces, yellow noses, yellow bags and mahogany colore I teats. He claims to be able to transfer the properties of any one cow, whatever they may be, to any other cow — and in the matter of color, to shade the animals to fan- cy. He goes strong for native breeds of cows; and m.any people think he will eventually ruin the foreign bloods, as the Durhams, the Here- fords, the Devonshires, &c &c.” Then follows anextractfrom the Report which Col. Jaques had prepared for the ensuing volume of the New York State Agricultural Society’s annual proceedings. In the New York Spirit of the Times, of Sep. 23, 1839, is aletter from Col. Jaques to the edi- tor of the American Farmer, (J. S. Skinner, we believe — if not, his immediate successor as a conductor of that valuable paper,) in which is a detail of his operations to produce a “ h.irse to order,” and in which he succeeded beyond his expectations. A description of the horse (Bell- founder) is given, and the skill and intelligence of Col. Jaques are highly complimented by the editor. in February, 1843, at a meeting of Agricultu- rists at thi State House in Boston, Col. Jaques spoke at large upon his theory of breeding ani- mals, especially cows ; a report of his remarks was published in the New England Farmer of February 15, which we here give in full, as his remarks upon the qualities of these animals, and the signs which indicate their good qualities, will be generally interesting to agricultural read- ers : “ Upon the subject of selecting and breeding domestic animals generally, it has been my ob- ject to combine as much as possible all the most desirable properties adapted to the soil, climate, and habits of New England. I wish, however, it may be distinctly understood, that whatever 1 may say upon this subjecq I do not desire to dictate to others, but hope those who are better informed may make known their practice and experience. “ My principles are, that the blood— the red flu- id, in every living creature, in whose body it flows, is, by the laws of nature, the sole agent and controlling power, in developing the gene- ralcharacter; and that by crossing and mixing the blood of the diflerent varieties of the same species, the strongest strains of blood will be found to predominate — and that health, or dis- ease— good or bad properties — are transmissible to the progeny and descent, both in the human and animal creation — even the color may be sha- ded to suit the fancy. “ From over fifty year’s practice and experience upon these principles, I consider the lollowing, among many points, important to be observed in neat cattle generally, but in bulls and cows particularly, viz: — Muzzle fine, with yellow nose; eyes brilliant ; head and horns light; ears thin, the inside yellow, not unlike as though sprinkled with yellow ; neck ot cows thin and clean, fore shoulders quite close, and well laid in, giving the fore hand a very light appearance, in proportion to the other parts of the cow; bulls’ necks may project from the breast a id shoulders stout, very muscular and strong, but tapering fine, so that the bulls’ and cows’ neck be joined to the head vei y neatly. Throats clean and tree from much dewlap. Bosom or breast, broadand full, projecting well forwurd ; legs straight, vdth fine bone, and well set apart ; the fore arms svell covered with muscle, tapering downwards fine ; shoulders smooth an.l well laid in; chine full; back straight and broad; ribs well roundi gout, the last rib projecting most, and not too far from the hips; broad in tiie loins and hips; hips full and globular — neither too close nor ragged, but placed on a level with the back ; rumps .ong and broad— very little, if any, sloping ; pelvis, broad and full; tails set on strong, and on a level with the back — tapering down to the end fine, where they should be well covered with long, silky and glossy hair ; and on opening the hair here, there | should be the same yello.v appearance on the I skin as is mentioned above on the inside of the ears. .Not too full in the twist, (which is, a full- ness between the hind bgs or thighs,) nor too thick in the thighs. Flanks quite deep. It is important that the wdiole skin should be yellow'. The color of the hair is pretty much fancy. A good coat of hair, even if it inednes to be long, is not unfavorable; but it should be very silky and glossy. The elastic handle, or touch of the flesh, w'ith the silky and glossy coats, are of the greatest importance, as these properties indicate their value as much, in comparison, as in broad- cloth of from two dollars to ten dollars per yard. The bag or udder of cows, should be capacious, projecting w’ell, bo*h fore and aft; hanging mod- erately deep, when full, but alter the milk is drawn, to be quite the reverse. It is very desir- able in a cow, that she should have teats, well spread apart and of medium size. Cow’s possess- ing most of the above mentioned points I have found generally to be deep and rich milkers— al- so, neat cattle generally I have found to be of good temper, good spirits, vigorous, active, good walkers, easily kept, taking on flesh readi- ly, and that too, on the most valuable parts ; and the bulls and cow'b well adapted for good breed- ers, for the dairy, the yoke and the shambles. We have no doubt that this theory of breed- ing is original with Col. Jaques. When he first spoke of it in public, some persons thought him a little too enthusiastic, and some thought that his enthusias.T. had impaired his judgment; but there are few intelligent breeders of cattle, now, w'ho do not acknowledge the soundness of his theory t.nd admire the success which has attend- ed his efforts. Col. Jaques boasts of nothing, we believe, which he is not able to perform. Since the development of his principles, we have understood that some persons have advoca- ted them, and claimed the credit of originating them. But to him alone belongs the credit of their conception, and the first efforts to prove their accuracy by their practical results. It is possible that Mr. Francis Guenon, or some other Frenchman, may have the same or a similar theory, without any knowledge of Col. Jaques and his operations. It may be that the French writer has made a new discovery of facts entirely different from those which form the ba- sis of Coi. Jaques’s theory. The forthcoming number of the Farmei’s Library will furnish the means of judging, whether it be original with th eauthor or a transcript of principles acted upon for forty or fifty years by the industiious and skillful proprietor of the Ten Hills Farm. Culture of Sumacli. In September, 1845, 1 sent you an article on the cultivation of sumach, which appeared in your number for October. I am pleased to in- form you, and the friends of American indus- try generally, that the quantity sent Irom the South for the past year, 1845, mostly from Vir- ginia, has been equal to about ten thousand bags, equivalent to seven hundred tons, being nearly one-twentieth ol the consumption of the country. I mentioned in my lormer essay, that the most astringent vegetables, or those containing the largest portion of gallic acid, are raised in warm climates. Now, although the sumach sent from Virginia has been used in place of Sicilian, yet that which can be raised in South Carolina, Georgia, Alabama, and more partic- ularly Florida, would be of decidedly better quality. 1 would therefore call the attention ot enterprising citizens of those Stales to the ar- ticle, and can promise them they can cultivate no product that will pay them better. I staled in my article of 1845, “that I had been informed sumach would not reproduce from the seed, it being a hybridous plant; but on consulting a Mr. Woodward, who sent the seed ol our sumach to England, he says it will repioduce, as much of the seed sent there pro- duces bountifully.” He states that it should be gathered as soon as rij e, and planted soon af- ter, so as not to become too old. This I con- sider an important fact, and one which our Southern planters should embrace ; for by planting the seed, and mowing down the shoots three times annually, they might obtain from three to five tons per acre, with much less ex- pense and trouble than by gathering and bring- ing home the natural growth scattered exten- sively over the country. The sumach is pe- rennial, and when once planted would last for ages, the crop when sown annually increasing until the ground became lull ol roots. Wm. Partridge. Benefit of Pressing the Earth. — A writer in the Michigan Farmer says: — “ A few years since, I was employed to make a garden. The soil was a gravelly loam. Among the beds made, was an onion bed, about 8 feet by 20. The earth for this bed was carefully spaded up to the depth ot 11 inches, and with a garden rake, made very mellow. The next day the seed was sown in drills, crosswise the bed, the drills being about 7 inches apart. Immediately after sowing the seed, one half of the bed was stamped down as hard as the weight ol a lad of 15 years age, by pressing once or twice in a place, would make it. The other half was left light. Shortly after the onions were up, they were weeded and carefully thinned, so as to stand about three inches asunder in the drills all over the bed. The soil during their growth was not moved any more than was incident to the pulling up of the weeds. With regard to the result, suffice ii to say that the onions which grew on the part ol the bed which was stamped came up first, grew more thriftily, and weie more than double the size and quantity than those on the other half— being mlact, as good a yield as I ever saw.” Rhubarb or Pie Plant. — This is another highly esteemed esculent for early Spring use, and ol the easiest possible culture. The plants continue many years in lull bearing, and occu- py very little room — a small number being suf- ficient tor a family. The seeds may be sown any time in Spring, and will make good strong plants in one year ; when they should be trans- planted to a rich deep border, or any convenient spot — placing them three or four feet apart. — The stocks should not be cut until the plants are aileasttwoor three years old.— OAw? Cultivator. Planting trees in Great Britain, and through- out the continent, is now extensively prosecu- ted. In some instances thousands of acres are planted on a single estate. 70 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. From the South Caiolinian. JEKUSAI^EM ARTSCHOKE. helianthcs tuberosum linn. This plant having recently excited some at- tention amongst agriculturists, as a valuable root crop, we proceed to give a lew hints re- specting its culture, derived from our own ex- perience, together with some accounts ol its yield. Although it is called so, it isbotanically, in no way allied to the artichoke, but it Is otthe same genus as the sun-flower, which it much resem- bles. The term Jerusalem is, according to Web- ster, a corruption of girasole, the Italian name for sun-flower j and it derives the appellatiou of Artichoke from some fancied similarity in the taste of the tubers with the Artichoke bottoms. — It is a native of Brazil, and was first carried in- to England about the year 1620, and before po- tatoes were so generally in use, was extremely popular as an edible root. Mention is made ol it in old agricultural treatises, as the Canada potato, to distinguish it Irom the common potato, and it was sometimes called l he Virginia potato. It was regarded as w'holesome, and is of an a- greeable taste, though it is never dry and mealy like the potato, being rather moist and soft in its texture, and is nutritious. Being hardy and perennial it succeeds in almo.st all kinds ot soil. It was almost lost sight ol in agriculture, until within a few years. Latterly, it is obtaining as an article ol food lor domestic animals. Twelve to fifteen hundred bushels have been obtained from an acre, when properly cultivated, and being relished by horses, cattle and hogs, it is undoubtedly the most profitable root crop which can be planted in the South; and perhaps, it might succeed in more northern regions. It is rich in farinaceous substance, and all animals do well and improve, when fed upon them. — Last spring a friend sent us a quart of tubers. We did not think this small quantity worth plant- ing, as they were much injured and dried up by longexposure. On the 3d ol May, fully two months after they should have been planted, w’e had a small space of ground , about 2 rods, pre- pared, and put them in. A drought ensued, and they did not come up soon, and consequent- lylostagreat deal by their being so late. They were planted in drills two and a hall feet apart, and twenty inches in the drill : but the seed be- ing so badly injured, the plants were very irreg- ular. They were plowed once, and the grass and weeds afterwards removed with the hoe. — In November we had them plowed up, and up- on gathering them, found we had ten bushels; and it is ouropinion, that if they had been pick- ed clean Irom the land, the yield would have reached twelve bushels. The tubers filled all parts ol the soil, and some of them are two feet long, consistingofsmall bulbs connected by suc- culent roots. The roots are white, and extremely tender, while the tubers are slightly tinged withered. — The roots make the best slips for planting, and if cut up, leaving an eye to each slip, they readi- ly-vegetate. When it is intended to feed this crop to hogs, they require no harvesting, for they readily withstand, pur mild winters; and if the hogs are turned in ,on them, they usually pro- vide for themselves. Por calves, sheep and horses, they must be gathered and washed, but unlike other roots, they require no cutting up.-- - They might be fed to sheep, by merely plowing up a few daily, and letting the sheep eat them immediately from the ground. In consuming this crop, the hogs gave the ground a thorough plowing, and by turning under the stalks and leaves, they add much to the soil. Some have asserted that it is an exhausting crop, but from the genus of the plant, we infer it is not. The leaves are large and the stalks are crowned with beautiful yellow flowers. The above was substantially the contents of an article contributed by us to the Albany Cul- tivator,, for February, 1845. In the Spring of 1845, in preparing the plat of ground spoken of, for potatoes, more than 6 bushels of tubers were gathered, (making the yield sixteen bushels,) which had not been eflTected in the least by the frost, and vegetated finely. The ground was planted in potatoes, but there still remained in- numerable small tubers of Artichoke which had not been gathered, and these vegetating brought up a fine stand before the potatoes came up. — They took possession of it, and instead ol a crop of potatoes, one of Artichokes w'as raised, which produced thesecondyear over twenty bushels on the ground above mentioned. Our experience of the prolific nature of this plant, does not cease with the two instances above mentioned. Sev- er?.! acres were planted in a peach orchard at Pomaria last year, and under all the disadvan- tages ol dense shade, drought, and exhausted soil, they pioduced quite a fine crop; and its adaptation as food for swine has been fully tes- ted. A number ol sow's and pigs, are now run- ning on this last mentioned lot, and keep fat on w’hat they glean from the field, which has been partially dug over, without a particle of other food, it i.s a great promoter of milk in all ani- mals, and fully sustains the opinion above ex- pressed, concerning its being good food lor cows and sheep. It wmuld perhaps supply better food for ewes and lambs, than any other root we could grow, as the tubers are extremely succu- lent, and embody more farinaceous matter than is usually allowed to it, by those persons who wish to discountenance its culture, because the Artichoke happens to contain 76-100 parts of water. The great quantity of this constitu- ent renders it the verx' best article which we can give to our stock, in conjunction wdlh the dry food w'hich we teed out in winter. Thisiswise- ly ordained by the Creator, who, with the pow- ers and inightiness of omniscience, has thus constituted vegetable substances, in order that they may be fit and proper food lor the beasts of the field,, without the artificial aids of preparation, which man is forced to apply to the articles of his diet. Owing to the large yield ot this root we are fully satisfiedthat one acre of it, vnllfur- nis/i more farmaceotis matter than an acre plant- ed in any other root crop. The Jerusa lem Ar- tichoke, contains one-third more nutriment than thebeetwhich isextensivelycultivatedin France as an article of economical food. It will com- pete and far exceed the yield and profit of the carrot in our soil ; being more nutricious, and at thesame time, more p>'oductive — it will grow luxuriatfily on soils too poor for the diflerent families ofthe potatoe, the beet or the carrot — and we have tested its powers of withstanding drought and cold; for our crop grew well amidst the desert heats ol the last Summer, and the roots which remained in the ground during the late severe winter, have not been injured in the least; whilst it is never attacked by insects or disease, both so fatal to the interests of root crops in the Southern latitude. We believe, from a fair trial, that it is destined to the first rank amongst cultivated roots, and will finally work great changes in the economy in feeding domestic an- imals. The shading of old worn-out lands by a plantthatlives from atmospheric sources, should be sufficient inducement lor its general cultiva- tion. Yvard the distinguished Agricultural prolessor at Alport, recommended its cultivation both by precept and example. Arthur Young affirms the nett profit of its cultivation to be much greater, beyond all doubt, than that of any otherordinary agricultural production ; and finally, it remains in full production on the same spot, for ten years and upwards. Our experience induces us to prepare the land and plant them as follows; Break up the soil as deep as you can in the winter, either with turning. Eagle, or Subsoil plows ; as soon as the frost is out of the soil, in February or March, cross-plow ic with the common twister or corn plow, so as to have the land perfectly friable — lay it off in rows two feet apart, and drop the tubers, prepared for planting by being cut into pieces, ten inches apart in the row; cover them with a plow. When the plants are ten inches high) plow them over, follow’ing again when they become twenty inches high, and the crop is made. They grow well in any soil, and being a hardy perennial, flourish for a score ol years on the ' same soil. They can be eradicated by hogs, but will always come, even alter the hogs have gleaned the field, in sufficient quantities to make a crop the next year. After the first, zti- stead of planting them, they must be plowed down to a stand by three orfour workings as soon as they come up in the Spring. SOETMERN HEMP, or REAR GRASS, We find in the Tallahassee Floridian of the 15th (says the New-Orleans Bulletin) the follow- ing letter from Gov. Call to Gov. Moseley, in relation to the cultivation of Hemp from the plant known by the name of Bear Grass, and indige- nous to the Southern States. The Floridian in- troduces the letter with some remarks on the ag- ricultural advantages and the products ofFlori- da, from which we give a short extract: “We have heretofore remarked that we be- lieved there was no country underthe sun where the honest, industrious cultivator of the soil could obtain a living with more ease and less labor than in Florida. We are every day becoming more and more convinced of this fact. The sa- lubrity and healthfulness of the climate, the rich- ness and fertility of the soil, the variety ot pro- ductions, and the ease with which they can be cultivated, all prove this. Almost every year we have a new arlicle introduced into cul- tivation, which has been neglected oroverlook- ed for years past, in the all-absorbing mania for raising cotton. In some parts ofthe Peninsula we can raise most of the tropical fruits in per- fection; in all parts many of them ; and in quan- tities, if the culture is properly attended to, to render their production profitable. With the people ofFlorida, then, there is no necessity of confining themselves to one particular. We have before noticed some ofthe most profitable productions— cotton, sugar, tobacco, &c. AVe have this week a new article to notice, which has heretofore been neglected— the Bear Grass. We have been informed by an intelligent mer- chant of St. Marks thr t, a year or two since, he received and forwarded cotton from a Georgia planter, roped with the rope made on his planta- tion from the Bear Gras.s; and that, but for the fact that it was not quite so well manufactured, it would not have been distinguished from the regularManilla.” Tali.ah.^ssek, Nov. 8, 1845. To his Excellency. Wm. D. Moseley, Governor oj the State of Florida : Sir: I have the honor to nresent to your Ex- cellency a specimen ofthe Florida Hemp, pro- duced from the plant generally known by the name of “Bear Grass.” It abounds in Florida in itsnative, uncultivatedcondiiion, and it is be- lieved that it may be propagated to an indefinite extent. Nothing feeds upon it, and it therefore requires no enclosure. It grows in the forest frequently to the hightol three or four feet, and, no doubt, may be improved by cultivation. It loses scarcely anything by the process ol manu- facture—the hemp being about the same length as the leaf. It is found indigenous in most of the Southern States, and, though being neglect- ed and unnoticed, from the successful results of experiments recently made, I feel assured it is destined very soon to become one 1 1' the most valuable staples of our country. In the present depressed situation ot the cotton market, owing to the superabundant produciion of that article, such a result is greatly to be de-sired. And if my anticipations are realized, the Southern Hemp will become more abundant and more profitable than that of the North, and w'ill con- tribute but little less than cotton to the popula- tion, wealth and power of th^ Southern States. The resemblance of the Hemp of Florida both in its native condition and after its manu- facture, to that of Manilla, induces a belief that it is equal in value if notsuperiorto thatarticle, and that the same process may be required for its cultivation and preparation lor market. Al- though I am well satisfied with the result of the experiments I have recently made for the latter purpose, and am convinced that, without any improvement whatever in the method I have THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 71 pursued, the labor of every hand engaged in its production will be more than twice the value ot the same amount of labor employed in a cotton field, > et it may be found, on inquirv in the country where the Manilla Hemp has been pro- duced for so many years that a much better plan has been produced by long experience. Deem- ing this a subject highly worthy of inquiry, 1 would respecttully suggest to your Excellency the expediency (should you think favorably oi the proposition) of requesting of the Govern- ment of the United States, through some of our foreign Consuls, to obtain all the practicable in- formation in regard to the cultivation and prepa- ration of this valuable article of commerce. The experiments I have made have been as simple and expeditious as they have been satis- factory in theirresults. The leaves of the plants have been plucked from the bud, around which they cluster, tied up in convenient bundles, boiled, and pounded, until the green bark and soft vegetable matter is disengaged from the strong fibres, when they are put in water, and washed out with great ease. But the apparatus 1 have suggested, and in which 1 have great confidence, (sufficient to pre- pare from two to three tons per day,) is a heavy wooden wheel, to traverse a circular platform, firmly constructed and covered with strong plank. The wheel to turn on a shaft, carved in the form of a screw. One end of the shaft con- fined and turning on a pivot in the centre of the platform, which will cause the wheel in its rev- olutions to traverse every part of the platform. The action of the boiling water for twenty-five minutes will prepare the leaves for the wheel. — The bundles, which will then have shrunk con- siderably, should be re-tied, to prevent the tang- ling of the Hemp, placed carefully on the plat- form, until it is covered, and the wheel put in motion by the animals hitched to the outer end ot the shaft, and moving in a circle on ti e outer edge of the plattorm. When the wheel shall have reached one side of the platform, by its rev- olution on the screw, the animals moving it are to be turned and driven in the opposite direction around the circle, which will cause the wheel to traverse back again to the opposite side. While the wheel is in motion, water should be frequent- ly thrown on the plants, which being permitted to escape by vents from the platform, carries with it all the surplus matter, (in a state of solution,) disengaged from the strong fibres by the friction and pressure of the wheel, until the Hemp is washed perfectly clean. It should then be taken from the platform and hung out to dry, which completes the process of preparation, and the article is ready to be packed up for market. — This process will succeed until a better is devi- sed. Every good plant will produce one pound of clean Hemp. Some have exceeded that quan- tity. The best specimens from the uncultivated plant are from three to four feet long, and the fi- bres coarse or finer, in proportion to the age of the leaf, as you will perceive by comparing the smaller parcel I send yon, (composed of the bud leaves only,) with the larger. From five to six thousand plants may be produced from one acre, which will yield as many pounds of good Hemp. The specimens 1 have shown are esti- mated, by our most intelligent merchants, as su- perior to the Manilla, and are considered worth from eight to ten cents per pound in ihe New- York market. At these prices, there is no cul- tivation in the United States so valuable. I have made experiments on the plant known by the name of the -‘Spanish Bayonet,” which abounds on our Southern sea-board, and find the fibre equally good in every otherrespect, though not so large as that of the “Bear Grass.” I learn from men who have been accustomed to cut up the latter plant annually in the cultiva- tion ot their fields, that it is almost indestructi- ble. Should this be the case, it woulct require to pe planted but once, after which it will con- tinue through a succession of years to yield its valuable tribute without cultivation. Such re- sults, though very imperfectly realized, will ren- der the Florida Hempa moslimportant produc- tion. It will add to the prosperity of the weal- thy, give profitable employment to the laboring classes, both in Agriculture and manufactories, but to the poor it will be an inestimable bles- sing. It will invite emigration, ensure adense white population, and make the South the rich- est and most powerful portion of the country. Cotton and Sugar can never be produced in great abundance except by slave labor, and the employment ol a capital far beyond the reach of the poor. Their culture has therefore a tenden- cy to increase the number ofslaves, and exclude a white population. But should the Hemp be- come a valuable staple, as I confidently antici- pate it will, from the simpHcity and care of its culture, and abundant production, it will give the richest and most generous reward to the la- borer. There are none so poor as to be unable to avail themselves of its advantages to some extent. The bounty of Providence has placed it within their reach. The production of a few acres will yield a sufficient support for a small family at greatly reduced prices; and where they may not be able to procure the necessary apparatus for boiling the Hemp, the same result maybe produced by steeping it in cold w'ater fordhe space ot twenty days, after which they can prepare more of it for market with their fingers alone in one day, than they can pick of cotton in two. Let the culture be once intro- duced, and it will never be abandoned while good Hemp is worth two cents per pound. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your ob’t servant, R. K. C,a.ll. From the Southern Reformer. CiSAB=GKASS MAY“-»PEA VlUVE, Ac. Col. W.M. Smith — Whilst endeavoring to benefit myself by reading, for the second time, “Economy of Farming,” translated from the German ot Prol.Burgen, by the Rev. E. Good- rich of New York, I am inclined to think that possibly I might aid some one, by giving a few hints. There are many this present year who, I learn, must be short of corn, and they may not think at the present time, that they can save many dollars by losing a little labor from the cotton field, which labor bestowed on cotton, could not buy the corn that could be saved. — Perhaps a hint may bring this to their mind and thus a saving be effected. Qur author quotes Thaer, who says: A moderate sized common working horse, needs on an average through the whole year 9| pounds, equal to 7| quarts good oats. Together with thi.i, he requires 9 1-6 pounds ol Hay, in order to keep him in usual strength for continuous labor.” Horses require from eight to seventeen quarts of oats, with from seven to ten pounds of hay, owing to size and work required of horses. “Many hold that oats is the only grain fit for horses,” and with enough of it and good hay, he is required to do full work. How will the experience of these Germans, w’ho never work by guess, tally with our mode of feeding in this country 1 When w'e feed oats we give a peck, or about nine and a half pounds (oats weighing 38 ibs.) with two bundles of fod- der, or about four to five pounds: when we feed corn, we give a peck per day, or twelve pounds, with over three bundles ol fodder. “As the hay is increased, the grain may be diminished, and vice versa.” Thus by having an abundance of ha}^, may we keep our horses on less grain, and no doubt to their advantage, but the animals must have longer time to eat. We know that horses will fatten on crab-grass, why should they not hold their own on the hay well cured from crab-grass, if allowed time to masticate? That they will, is known to many who have saved crab-grass hay. This brings me now to the point: advising farmers to at once put all hands to saving crab-grass hay. The rains since July have given fine growth to this grass, and if saved early, there is no doubt but what it will be but little inferior to Timothy, it any. Where it grows in cornfields, a grass-knife cannot be readily used, but a hand can save a handsome lot by pulling it with the hands; where the grass scythe can be used, it is more expeditious. I allow it to lay about a day, then throw up into heaps, let it remain thus for two nights and a day, then open out to sun; hay cures better this w'ay, the moderate heating in heaps, makes it sweeter and it cures sooner. 1 do not allow it to be spread out to receive the dew at all; it is thus more trouble, but much belter. After hav- ing enough hay, I would advise sowing oats, the Egyptian oat ; they will save corn during the winter and until March; wffien ripe, say about first of'June, they will, with one third ot feed of corn, l£eep plow horses in full condition. Let any one count up how much hay his hands can save and how many oats can be sown, count up the entire cost — then count up even the value of the cotton, (though this would not be fair, for there would be but a slight loss ol it) and set against this the purchase and hauling of corn — then judge ye! But even thiswould not tell the whole story, for bought corn never fattens the farmer’s horse, nor holds out to measure; the consequence, short work. I make no doubt that even at thisdate, many planters can obviate the necessity of purchasing corn, if they will only appropriate labor to the amount of five to ten cents per bushel for the corn they will need, thus save their cash and the time ot hauling. We are now saving hay, although we have housed more provender this year than ever before, not for the w’ant of corn, for we havm it to spare, but that we wish to feed our cattle better than here- tofore. It is usual in Mississippi to cut oats, tie in bundles, and feed it from a rack or out of a hol- low log — waste! If planters will have the oats cut with not over one-fourth to one-half the straw attached, then cut up with a straw-cutter, sprinkle a litile salt and water and meal over the cut stuffs, they will see increase of condition and a saviug of food enough to pay a heavy in- terest on straw culture. These savings are of BO little import when the income from a short crop and low prices is so small. I might allude to the pea-vine as an excellent food for mules and horses ; they are difficult to save unless the planter be fixed; then, not much. It an abun- dance of four foot boards and rails, I would ad- vise making a pen, say one foot high, lay rails on this to prevent the vine falling through, then build up a pen two feet, fill w'ith pea-vine, lay on another floor of rails, and so on till some ten or filteen high, then cover with boards, and let them project well on all sides. Vines will save thus, even with one day’s sun, and better not sunned too much as they shed their leaves. A little salt sprinkled over them not only facili- tates the saving, but adds to their value. I would advise something be done to save the ex- pense and time of hauling corn ; it is so much loss, and much of it to the stale. Hoping that I may be in time, I am, respectfully, yours, M. W. Phillips. Log Hall, Hinds Co., Miss., Oct. 22, 1845. Filberts. — They do not require a very rich soil, but grow well injthat part which is rocky and gravelly. The ground is kept clean around the trees, which are placed about twelve feet apart. They are very carefully pruned, and one stem only is left to branch out a few inches above the ground ; the branches are trained and pruned ia the shape of a punch bowl, and are not allowed to run above four or five feet high; thus they will bear abundantly, and very profitably.y- When the filberts are gathered, they are laid to dry in the sun, or under a shed exposed to the air. If they are well dried, they will keep good for several years. — [Penny Cyclopedia. The above refers to England; but would not this tree succeed in the United States and prove profitable to the cultivators of it? It seems to me that some trials on the culture of it in this country ought to be made, as also on the Eng- lish walnut, so termed, which has proved profi- table in some instances at least. W. Jennisok. [Nashville AgricuUurtst. Get to work eaily in the morning, that you may rest during the heat of the day. 72 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. ®l)c 0outl)crn tiiiltiMotov. AUGUSTA, GA. VOL. IV.. KO. 5 ?ri AV, 184G. Mr. Farrar’s Proposition. In the concluding paragraph of his communica- tion, Mr. Farkar proposes to become one of a Thou- sand or less number who will pay one dollar a volume for Volumes 1, II, III and IV (bound) of the Southern Cultivator, and desires to know whether we can af- lord them at the pi ice I To which we reply, we will furnish any number that may be thus subscribed for. The friends of the work have now an opportunity to show their faith by their works. The Publishers. 513= We have received communications for the Cultivator from D. Kendall, D. C. Rose, A. B. C. and Pedro, all of which we are under the necessity of laying over for the June number. Marl. We are under obligations to Gcv. Hammond, of S. C., fora copy of his letter on Marl, address- ed to the Agricultural Society of Jefferson coun- ty, Georgia. Since the publication of Mr. Ruf- fin’s Essay on Calcareous Manures, we know of nothing on the same subject calculated to do so much good as this letter, to the whole region of the Southern States, where marl can be had and economically used. We intend to commence the re-publication of it in the next number of the Cultivator, Southern Hemp. This number of the Cultivator contains a very important article for the South, in Gov. Call’s letter to Gov. Moseley, of Florida. By the kindness of W. McKinley, Esq., of Lexington, we are enabled to show to persons who take an interestin such things, samples of this hemp, both unmanufactured and made into rope. Any one who will call at the store of Messrs. Newton & Lucas, Athens, or at the of- fice of the Cultivator, Augusta, can see it. We refer to Mr. McKinley’s letter in another page for particulars as to these samples. The Southern Cultivator. Our thanks are due, and are hereby tendered to our friends of both the political and agricultural press in the South, and indeed in other parts of the U. States, for their kind notice of our annun- ciation of the fact that the support given to the Southern Cultivator would not warrant its continuance. We hope we will be pardoned for copying two of these notices — one from South Carolina and the other from Maine. Thee itor of the Southern Agriculturist^ pub- lished ii . Charleston, S. C., after copying the no- tice that this paper would be discontinued after this year, says : — “ We would much regret that such should be the end of the Southern Cultiva- tor. as we are fully aware of its great utility — indeed, the South cannot afford to loose any of its agiicultural papers — for although there may be many subscribers to those printed at the North, yet the generality of readers do not ob- tain their information from them ; but it is through the medium which the exchange of such publications diffuses, that we keep pace with the daily increasing knowledge of th^ times, and thus prevent our being thrown behind this age of improvement. Therefore, let the friends of Southern Agriculture jally to the support of both the Southern Cultivator and Southern Agricul- turist.” Dr. Holmes, editor of the Maine Farmer, thus speaks of the Cultivator and its prospects ; Southern Cultivator. — One of the neatest Agricultural papers printed in the Union, is the Southern Cultivator, published in Augusta, Ga., and Edited by James Camak, of Athens, in that State. It is published monthly in a quarto form, at one dollar per year. Ably edited and earnest- ly devoted to the Agr cultural improvement of that State in particular and of the fcouih gene- rally, and yet we are surprised to leain by the last number that it does not receive sufficient support “ to pay the actual expenses of publica- tion.” The people of Georgia ought to be ashamed to have such a story told. How it is possible that they can be so blind to their best interests, is beyond our comprehension. They sneer at our ‘‘frozen climate” and ‘‘sterile soil,” as they please to term it, and shudder when they think of our storujs of snow and long icy winters, and yet can’t or will not support one monthly agricul- tural journal in their own State. Out upon such beggarly apathy as that ! With ail your bless- ings of sunny clime and fertile soil, of teeming summer and bland winter, we can beat Georgia, and always shall, unless you rouse up and make better use of the superior advantages God has given you ; and the first step towards it will be to give the Southern Cultivator a strong support The publishers take the responsibility of ad- ding the following testimonial from T. Affleck, of Mississippi, the able Agricultural editor of the N. O. Commercial 'Fimes ; The Southern Cultivator.— This is an ex- cellent S'oMt/iern journal, just entering upon its fourth year, and is now under the care of Mr. James Camak, of Athens, a gentleman who has labored zealously in the cause of auriculture and horticulture for some years past. The Cultivator is worthy of a circulation of twenty thousand copies. We shall have frequent occasion to bor- row from its pages. Sheep and the Shepherd’s Dog. Since our connection with the Agricultural press, we have written a number of articles un- der this bead, and have copied from other papers a still greater number; of these latter one of the very best, we think, is in this number of the Cul- tivator, written by a correspondent for the iV. C. Farmer. There are suggestions in this article of very great importance. The correspondents of the So. Cultivator have devoted a good portion of their attention to the subject of sheep-raising. But thus far, so far as we know, notwithstanding all that has been said, not a single effort has been made to establish sheep-walks any where in the South, with the single exceptions of Buncombe, N. C., and Ingleside, Miss. Nor is this apathy surpris- ing, when it is remembered how utterly regard- less of the people’s welfare their public agents have been, in not suppressing the horrid nuisance of worthless dogs. Mr. Skinner, the editor of the Farmer's Library, on this subject, says, that the disposition which exists to establish large sheep farms in the mountainous and other por- tions of the Southern States, so far south as not to require cultivated food in the winter, can nev- er be carried out successfully until some legisla- tive provision is made against sheep-killing dogs, and until there shall exist a more general convic- tion of the indispensable services of Shepherd’s Dogs, and provision be made for a more general supply of them, with the knowledge of the man. ner of raising and using them. For shepherds, Mr. S. thinks Indians and Mexicans will answer the best. But he suggests a difficulty likely to arise in the introduction and use of the Shep- herd’s Dog in these words. The danger is, on the first introduction of Shepherd’s Dogs, that their use may be abandoned in disappointment and disgust, from want of reflection on the part of the sheep owner, that the sheep, as well as the dog, will require to be frain«£f. In cur country no sight is more terrible to sheep than that of a Jog. All their associations with him warn them of danger and destruction. Mr S. says, it is re- lated of Mr. Jefferson, to whom a well-trained Shepherd’s Dog had been sent from abroad, that after explaining to his visitors the sagacity and usefulness of the Shepherd’s Dog, he led them to the fields, taking along the dog, to give them an exhibition of his fine qualities. On the first indi- cation of what he was to do, the dog made for the sheep, and they scattered in all direciion.s, terrified to death, and the dog not much less con- founded at their strange behavior. Some of them threw themselves over precipices, and the dog was never recovered. English Plowing. For the purpose of enabling bur readers to compare plowing, as it is managed on Southern plantations, with the same operation in England and Scotland, we have extracted from the last number of Mr. Colman’s work an account of the latter. On page 422, Mr. -Colman says: — “1 think I may say that, in England and Scotland the art of plowing has reached perfection, and that it is unrivalled and unsurpassable. This, at least, is my opinion, which must be taken at what it is worth. I cannot conceive how it can be improved ; and this not in rare instances, and at plowing-matches, but I may say universally. In some cases the work has been better done than in others; but I have not seen an example of bad plowing in the country ; I have not seen one which, in the United States, would not be pro- nounced superior. » * * The perfection of any art consists in its accom- plishment of its particular object in the best manner, and by the simplest means. The per- fection of plowing consists in its performing its work exactly as you wish or require to have it done. You wish the surface of your field com- pletely inverted. You wish this to be done at particular depth, and the furrow slice to be cut in perfectly direct lines. You desire it to be of a certain width and certain thickness, and the same in every part of the fitld. You require that it should be raised without breaking, and either laid completely flat upon its back, or made to recline upon its neighbor at a particular angle of inclination ; and you wish it-so done that, if it be greensward, every portion of the herbage shall be completely shut in, and not a spire shall show its head between the furrows, any more than a straggling Frenchman on the field after the battle of Waterloo. And you want this per- THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 73 formed at the rate of about an acre a day of eight hours work, with your team moving at the rate of two miles or two miles and a quarter per hour, so that they may work comfortably every day in the week. You desire your plowman to fol- low his team, and execute his part with entire at- tention to what he is about, v/ithout perturbation, without sweating, withoutfretting, and especial- ly without swearing, which some men whom I have known, both at plowing-matches and in their own fields, have deemed indispensable to the pro- per performance of their work, in which matter I beg leave to say I always entirely differed from them in opinion, having never yet discovered any reason why men, who assume to belong to the order of rational animals, should, by their pas- sion and the indecency and profaneness of their language, degrade themselves below the brute animals which they undertake to govern. Now, in all the particulars which I have pointed out, the plowing hsre will be done exactly according to a prescribed form. I said, in my first report, that the plowed land resembled a ruffle shirt just come from under the crimping iron. The repre- sentation is perfect. “ I attended, among others, a plowing-match at Saffron Walden, where there were at least ten competitors, with lots of an eighth of an acre ; and, as well as I can remember, the fur- row slices were to be seven inches in width and five inches in depth. It was not a match against time, although the work was required to be com- pleted within a certain time. I do not misstate when I say that I do not believe there was the variation of an inch, in the whole field, in the width or depth of the furrow, or a single crook- ed line, or even one solitary balk. The fields or lands were struck out before beginning. Two horses composed a team, and the plowman was his own driver. Some boys under eighteen were allowed to enter as competitors for boy’s premiums. I went over the field in an ecstacy of admiration at its uniformity, neatness, exact- ness and beauty. ***** “There are two points, which have seemed to me, (says Mr, C.,) always particularly to test the skill of a plowman. The one is the mode in which he lays out his land, and strikes the first furrow ; and the second, that in which he finish- es the last furrow. In the case to which I have referred, the last land remained, at the close, a single unbroken strip of equal width, from one end of the field to the other, lying like a stretch- ed out ribbon, which, as the plowman came down the course, he turned without breaking, and with perfect precision, from one end to the other. In this instance the horses seemed al- most as well trained as the driver, and inspired with equal emulation. The finishing ot the ends of the lands is always a work of great care; they are cross-plowed, and the whole affair is completed with equal neatness throughout.” After a description of the mode of plowing in old times, even in New England, according to the recollection of his earl}' days, Mr. C. says; — “ Somewhat of this experience may have been necessary, to enable me to estimate properly the excellence of English plowing, when the imple- ment seemed to move through the ground with as much quietness, directness, ease — I may al- most add grace — as a boat through the water, with its sails spread to a favoring breeze, and an accomplished steersman at the helm. * * * “ The usual practice is for the plowman to be at the stables at lour o’clock in the morning, to clean, water and feed his horses, and to be in the field at work by six o’clock. With a short time to rest occasionally, he continues his plow- ing until two o’clock, when he returns to the homestead, the horses are thoroughly cleaned and rubbed, and watered and fed, and at last lit- tered for the night — eight hours being consider- ed as a day’s work; and, in ordinary cases, an English statute acre, of the same size as an Ame- rican acre, is his allotted stint. * * * * “ I shall be asked, perhaps, what advantage comes from this exact mode of performing the work. It might be enough to answer, that, in every species of labor, and in every practical art, what is done should be well done, and perfec- tion, how far soever he may fall short of it, should ba every man’s great aim. It might be enough to say, that the moral influences upon a man’s own character, and life, of habits of ex- actness, order, care and neatness, are always great, and of very serious value ; but I may con- fidentl} add, that the perfection with which land is tilled is of great importance to the crops, and directly conducive to their perfection and abun- dance. The man, too, who studios to plow and cultivate his lands in the best manner, will be anxious to have his implements of the best kind, and to keep his team in the best order and con- dition. Indeed, multiply as we will the excuses for slovenliness, irregularity and carelessness, there cannot be a doubt that habits of order, ex- actness and carefulness, in all respects, are di- rectly conducive to, nay, are the true founda- tions of, all profitable arrangement. I may add, likewise, that where everything is kept in order, and all work proceeds by rule and system, though these rules may sometimes appear ex- treme or severe, affairs are managed at less ex- pense of labor and tim.e than in a more negligent and reckless mode.” Agricnltural Experiments. Professor Hardy, of Randolph, Macon College, Va., in an essay on Guano, its nature and use, which is published in the April No. of the F’ar- mers’ Library, lays down certain rules by which Agricultural experiments should be conducted. We have copied them below, in the hope that, coming from such high authority, they will be regarded with some small degree of respect and attention. They are : — 1. The object of the experiments should be, io test the comparative value of different manures as to specific crops. Statements of a general, in- definite nature are of little value. Precision is as important as correctness. 2. The quantity of land manured in each case should be measured ; the kind, cost and amount of each manure, and the time and manner of its application should be given ; the crop, when mature, should be carefully gathered, weighed, or measured ; and the relative cost of the ma- nure per 100 lbs. or bushel should be precisely as certained. In all instances an equal portion of unmanured land should be cultivated. 3. If scientific men coula be employed, the land, the manures and the crops should be ana- lysed. While this cannot be expected in but few instances, it should be attempted whenever it is practicable; and the result must be highly creditable both to American science and Ameri- can husbandry. 4. Every agricultural club and association should have in view at all seasons of the year some well defined specific objects to be accom- plished. The subjects requiring, the attention of the intelligent farmer are numerous and interest- ing; and no season should be permitted to ar- live without bringing the results of som.e well- conducted, skillful experiment. Deep Plowing. In the 5th Number of Colman’s European Agriculture, just published, we find the follow- ing remarks on this very important subject; “ The loam, or vegetable mould, he says, is with- out question, the great source or medium .,;f nourishment to the plants. Be it more or less deep, it is always safe to go to the bottom of this, and, by gradually loosening a portion of the sub- soil, or lower stratum, and incorporating it with the mould, and rendering it accessible to the air and light, it acquires the nature of mould, and the whole arable surface is enriched. The deep- er the soil,- the more deeply the roots are permit- ted to descend, and the more widely they are en- abled to spread themselves — unless they pene- trate a stratum unhealthy from wet or the too great prevalence of some unfavorable mineral substance— so much the more luxuriant and pro- ductive is the vegetation likely to prove. The depth to which the roots of plants will go down in search of food or moisture, is much greater than a superficial observation would induce us to suppose. It is confidently asserted that the roots of some plants — such for example as lucern and sainfoin — go to a depth of fifteen, twenty, and even thirty feet. This seems scarcely credi- b'e. Red clover is known to extend its roots to the depth of three feet, and wheat to the depth of two or three feet, where the condition of the soil is favorable to their extension. Von Thaer, the distinguished agriculturist, says ‘ he has pulled carrots two and a half feet long, the tap- root of which was probably another foot in length.’ The tap-root of a Swedish turnip has been known to extend thirty-nine inches; the roots of Indian corn, lull six feet. These state- ments may appear extraordinary, but by the free and loose texture of the soil, it is obvious a good husbandman will give every opportunity for the roots and their extremely fine fibres to extend themselves as far as their instincts may prompt them.” AGRICDLTURAn SCIENCE IN FrANCE. — Mr. Walsh, in a recent letter from Paris, writes as follows: “We have regular reports of the sittings of the Convention ol the Agriciiliurisis of the North. The Government lends it all counte- nance and aid, and manifests a strong desire to establish societies and committees in every dis- trict of the realm. A general .scheme for this purpose was submitted on the 7ih instant to the Convention by the inspector general of Agri- culture, and wasfreely and fully di.?cussed.” Shepherd’s Dogs. — S. IVl. Hell, West Alex- ander, Washington county, Pennsylvania, in- forms us that he can furnish a few of these dogs; “ price SlO per pair tor puppie.s — grown dogs, price in proportion.” A fe'w of these va- luable animals, ol pure blood, can also be had on application at the office of the Fanner’s Cabinet, Philadelphia— price $5 each. — Albany Ctdlivator. An ounce ot silk worm eggs, it is said, will produce thirty-five thousand worms. 74 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. ©riginal (Hommitnirationg. From an Old •Corresponaeut-”Proposition. Mb. Camak Having a few leisure moments on account of wet weather, &c., I undertake to write a few lines for the Southekn Cultivator. In the first place, I respecttully say to the pub- lishers that 1 was sorry to see in the March num- ber a statement from them, well calculated to produce a blush of shame on the face ot South- ern planters, especially those within the bounds of our own State, when it is well known that the planters of Georgia are more than able to sustain an agricultural paper, both by extending its circulation until a sufficient number of sub- scribers are obtained to pay the publishers all ex- penses and leave them a reasonable profit, and tty contributions in furnishing interesting mat- ter, &c, to fill its pages. I request the planters of Georgia to look to the Northern States, and see what rapid strides are being made in the way of improvement in their lands, their crops, their stock of all kinds, mechanic arts, &c. Perhaps nine-tenths of the progress of improvements are produced by the circulation of agricultural pa- pers. Some of the States have two or three agricultural papers in circulation, all well sus- tained. And shall we, the planters of Georgia, suffer our Southern Cultivatob, to droop and die for want of succor fully in our power to afford, after some fouryears’ strugglefor strength, which I once hoped and believed it would, ere this, have attained, at least to have put the thing out of dispute as to being permanently established? I do by no means v/ish any person’s labor without their being paid a reasonable amount. At the same time, I am as much opposed to pay- ing more than a fair amount for anything as any man to be found. If there is a man to be found that will calmly say that one dollar a year is more than enough for an agricultural paper, he is not worthy of one at any price. About the time of the commencement of the 2d volume of the Cultivator, I made every ef- fort within my power to obtain subscribers, and succeeded in getting about thirty. Most of them I had to persuade into it, and advance their pay in almost every instance. In some cases it was not refunded in 12 or 15 months. This I did not feel willing to stand up to, and have not put my persuasive powers in force since, because i soon found out that men going into, or taking hold of new things rather against their will, did not have any good effect, so far as agriculture is concerned. But if the Cultivator could bring corn in the’ crib, pork in the meat-house, fat h'orses and cattle in the stalls, without indi- vidual or personal effort being connected with it, there would then be a mighty rush, all hands coming forward to its support. The cry would be, never let the Cultivator go dowm. Long live the Southern Cultivator ! For myself, I am so fond of agricultural papers 1 have taken the Albany Cultivator and the Tennessee Agricul- turist, and am now taking the Southern Cultiva- tor, the Southern Planter and the American r^gii- culturist, and consider my money as well laid out in that way, so far as the amount goes, as any other, except for thesupp-rt of the gospel. I do most sincerely advise my friends and bro- ther planters to come up to the support of the Southern Cultivator, and not suffer it to go down for want of subscribers. I do fur:her ad- vise my friends, the publishers, to stick up to their undertaking, but do not wish them to do so at their continual loss. We hope for better things. If they were to discontinue the paper , it would not be 12 months before there would be another of the same kind started ; and I should be very sorry for them, the publishers of the Cul- tivator, to be four years sowdng and some other one to step in and reap the harvest. I have a proposidon to make, that is, if the publishers can afford to stand up to it; if they can they will let us know. It is this : I wish to be one of a thousand — if that number is too great let it be five hundred, or even one hundred — who will take the Southern Cultivator, 1st, 2d, 3d and 4lh volumes, bound in a cheap and common manner, at SI a volume. If no one will join me, though I hops many will, {why not two or three thousand.) if it can be afforded, I will be one. I am, dear sir, very respectfully, John Fahrar. Stanfordville, April 4, 1846. To the Editor. Mr. Camak — I regret very much to see, in the number of the Cultivator for the present month, that, after the expiration of the present year, the publication of the Cultivator, for want of adequate support, will be discontinued. I have taken the paper from its beginning, and al- though it has not been so valuable as 1 hoped in its original pieces, yet I consider it a treasure to the farmers of the State ; and it would certainly augur very badly for the state of Agriculture in Georgia; for however lightly our population may think of it as a means of agricultural improve- ment, that does not alter the fact, that we reject one of the most powerful agents of improvement when we withhold our support from the Cultiva- tor. There has been so much written and said recently in support of the usefulness Of agricul- tural periodicals, that it is not necessary here to discuss their merit. I presume no one doubts the fact. It is the intention of this communica- tion to urge those who see and feel the great im- portance of agricultural papers, to rally to the support of the Cultivator, and persuade their neighbors to subscribe for it. I have been remiss myself, and should have done much better. Since I saw the notice above referred to, I have determined to set to work, and the only two I have spoken to on the subject, consent to send for the Cultivator. I know the apathy of a great many, but it is reasonable to hope that this want of spirit will be overcome by faithful and well directed effort on the part of those who are awake to the importance of the thing. Innovations are hard to take in most things, and particularly so, we find, in agriculture; and yet it cannot be doubted they are absolutely ne- cessary to meet the present crisis in the condition of most plantations in Georgia. It is a fact, as far as my observations extend, thatlands gene- rally are fast assuming the galled and gullied ap- pearance, which already desolates so much of Georgia’s fair surface, without there being forest left to supply its place. Then this is truly a crisis, 'i'here must be something done to remedy this threatening evil ; and whatever that some- thing be, if there is spirit enough to do it, there will, with it, be the disposition to consider an agricultural paper indispensable. Improvement and agricultural periodicals must go hand in hand, and our proper course, with regard to our warm and active support of them, cannot be mistaken. We are “sure we are right,’’ now let us “go ahead.” The spirit of the times is evidently progressive in improvement, and if we farmers retrograde, as ws must evidently from the tendency of our course, it may be justly said, we are the world’s drudges, and our v/ork its drudgery. But this shall not be our destiny. We can and will avert it, should be the language of every one ; and when we do set our shoulders to the wheel in earnest, the car will move onward rapidly. Then there will be no complaint, when there is but one agricultural paper published in the State, that it must stop for want of adequate support. Every plan should be devised to cultivate a taste for agricultural reading— and I have thought that neighborhood Agricultural Jileetings might be resorted to where two or three persons in a neighborhood would be active in getting up such meetings. In these meetings agricultural dis- cussions might be introduced in any way in the meeting, and might be varied occasionally to some other subject. I know that in many sec- tions polemic societies are common, and I have often been surprised that agricultural questions have been left out entirely, and that, too, when almost all the club were farmers. In sections where polemic societies arc common, or might become so from these considerations, the above plan in'ght increase the spirit of agricultural reading, and the circulation of the Cultivator. Now, Mr. Editor, I have always been desirous of contributing to the columns of the Cultivator, but being a little man anyway, undone of little pretensions, I have hitherto been deterred. But being threatened with the loss of my paper, I concluded to scribble a few words of admonition to its patrons, to stand up to its support. I know not v/hether what I have written will be accept- able ; if not, throw it aside, as it is the first I have ever attempted to write for the public eye. Greene Co. , ilfarc/k 25, 1846. A. B. C. Whitewash, — Use this article freely. Sea Island Cotton— Gins— Barley. Mb. Camak: — In travelling to the upper part of this State last summer, I met, on the table of a friend, the “ Southern Cultivator.” I was so much pleased with the neatness cf the sheet and the interesting matter contained therein, that I determined to grace my table also, and place it by the side of that excellent paper the “ Albany Cultivator,” I have received your three numbers since January last, and hope to derive much benefit from a journal so spiritedly conducted and so well adapted to the wants of the South. I have banded a number to several friends. Some have already become subscribers, and I have strong hopes of obtaining more in a short time. Your correspondent has all his life been devo- ted to the practice of an arduous profession, leaving but little time for other things, and al- though long in the possession of a planting in- terest, is but a novice in this most important of all worldly pursuits. And now, when the young, the vigorous and active, are wishing to occupy the places of those who would imitate the ex- ample of the virtuous Roman and retire from the turmoil of life to the quiet scenes of the farm, he finds himselfout of his element, and you must not be surprised if he should occasionally be- com.e troublesome on the score of seeking in- formation. The cultivation of long staple cotton is the engrossing subject on the seaboard, and the fa- cilities for manuring from the mud and marshes of the salt-water creeks are abundant. I will just state an experiment I made a short time since. A compost was prepared according to the directions of Dr. Dana, given in his “Muck Manual.” Three cords of creek mud or muck, two bushels of lime, and one of salt, after being several times, at short intervals, mixed, was spread on the listings of one acre of cotton ground. Other portions of the field were ma- nured with stable manure and compost made in the pens; but a decided preference was given by several competent judges to the acre which obtainedDana’s compost. I am trying this com- post on a larger scale this season, but would not undertake to recommend it for its cheapness unless to those who are favorably located for obtaining these valuable material*. I now come to the main object of this commu- nication. The great desideratum with the long staple planter is a good and cheap roller gin to prepare the cotton for market. The common treadle gin is but the relicof old times, and the in- fancy of mechanical skill. Pottle & Farris’s gins have not answered in this neighborhood, where the finer qualities of Sea Island are mostly culti- vated. The opinion prevails that fine cotton is li- able to wind around the rollers in the double clamp gins, causing delay and very often combustion ; but as fine cotton, like everything else, has had its day, it is not improbable, could these gins be put up by competent mechanics, they may still an sw'er the wants of the planter. The barrel gin does not appear to me to supply this great desidera- tum, requiring ^00 many persons to /eed, but is certainly the best of the gin tribe I have seen used. In this section of our State we have had quite a gin disease for the last two or three years. Some here burnt their cotton and net a few their fingers. I have been recsntly informed that in Bryan county, in your State, an improved roller gin is in successful operation, and you would con- fer a favor on the long staple planter if you could obtai n information on the subject, particularly how these gins are propelled, the number of hands re- quired to feed them, the quantity of clean cotton turned out per hour or day, the cost of putting one up, &c., and whether they have ever been tested with the finer qualities of Sea Island. Would you, Mr. .Editor, inform me of the pro- per time to plant barley, and your opinion as to how it would answer on the seaboard for pas- ture,'or to be fed in a green state to domestic an- A Subscriber. Beaufort, S. C., March 2'o, 1846. Co'5V“Peas=“Sea Island Cotton — Inquiries. Mr. Camak — As there is a diversity of opinion existing among the planters on the seaboard, respecting the best time for planting cow peas, and also as much with regard to the best time when the growing crop of Sea Island Cotton should cease to be worked (two items of infer- THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 75 mation of considerable importance to the sea- board planter,) I thought I would drop you a line, requesting information on the subject, through the columns of the Culttvatok, hoping thereby to induce some of our low-country planters to give their views through your paper. It is insisted by some that peas will make most if planted late, and that the later the better, consistent with their coming to maturity before frost, while others think it all important for a good crop, that they be planted at the right time of the moon. As regards the culture of Cotton, some think it best to lay by the crop about the last of June, or early in July, while a few years ago it was not uncommon to work throughout the month of August. If you will give the above a place in your paper you will oblige one of your readers in Ma7ch2‘id, 1846. Liberty County. Sumach. Mr. Camak:— In the March No. of the “ Southern Cultivator” I observed your re- commendation of ths “ Sumach” as a plant wor- thy the attention of Southern agriculturists. I considered your remarks very appropriate, and hope they will not be overlooked by enterprising planters. The time has arrived when all the re- sources of our country should be developed, and all the blessings w'hich kind Heaven has shower- ed upon our favored land, brought to view and duly appreciated. It is, indeed, a strange neg- lect, and appears to argue a want of enterprise if not of energy, that we should be indebted to a foreign clime for products indigenous to our own soil, and those jiroducts too, superior to that which is imported. As you remarked, all vege- table acids are produced in a more highly con- centrated state, the warmer the climate. If Vir- ginia can compete with Sicily in the production of this plant, certainly the Southern States, with all the advantages of a Southern sun, should at least make the experiment. Our great staple. Cotton, has long since passed its meridi an, an 1 it becomes us as prudent men to search for a substitute amid the varied productions of our country. Will you, Mr. Editor, or some of your corres- pondents, inform me through the Cultivator, of the Virginia method of cultivating this plant, the outlay of capital for its culture and prepara- tion for market, and the probable proceeds per acre of a crop of the kind in the South. We have no less than eight species of this plant in the South, among which 've find the Rhus Ty- phina, the R. Glabra, and the R. Copallina. I have seen the latter growing upon the banks of the Bread and Wateree rivers in the greatest lux- uriance ; and from the taste of the seed, I was in- duced to believe that the gallic acid was in a state of high concentration. Very respectfully, yours. Caroliniensis. Fairfield Dist., S. C,, March 19i or turpentine 1 pint. Mauures— Their Application. On the subject of Manures much has been written and much has been said; still it is fer- tile and full of interest. The subject cannot, in my opinion, be too frequently agitated, or brought into view, or too strongly urged. When we consider how much the produc- tiveness of ourfarms depend on the manure heap, and how much this matter is at limes neglected, a few remarks, I trust, will not be unacceptable, and although familarto most of you, if they stimulate one person to apply them, who has hitherto neglected to do so, the object in making them will be attained The collection and application of manures I consider to be the grand secret in good farm- ing. It gives ns grass and grain. It is by a liberal application of manure that extraordina- ry crops have been obtained. It is consequently an object of minute attention to collect as much as possible, and to applv it in the most advan- tageous manner. Although there is little dan- ger of applying too great a quantity to land, it may be used to excess. Indian corn is a vora- cious feeder, and will bear a copious dressing, but the crops of small grain may be injured by manuring too highly. Manuring the soil forms a grand item in farming, both on account of its expense and its need to replenish (he land; it is therefore very important to know the art of managing this de- partment with the greatest economy, and pre- venting waste in any possible shape. Very few larmers ever have a sufficiency of animal manures for their potatoes. Hence re- course must be had toother means for augment- ing the manure heap. The great principle of all manures may be understood from this fact, that whatever ani- mal or vegetable substance dies, is converted into manures lor other plants in a living pro- cess of putrefaction. By this process it is gradually, but effectually decomposed ; and the parts are fitted for f ntering into new combina- tions, and for adding to the substance of the living plants. Thus, instead of nuisances, Na- ture furnishes manure, and no substance what- ever is lost. This is one of the beautiful and admirable laws of Nature ; and though we cannot investigate her very minute operations, we are able, by observation, to learn much, and by in- dustry to derive great advantages. A great deal has been said about the fertility of plants. Pulverized earth, water as an excre- ment, carbonaceous matter in a soluble state, various gaseous substances have been succes- sively in repute ; some plants have been suppo- sed to draw part of their food from the atmos- phere, in a larger proportion than others; and it has been thought that grain and green crops re- quire to be .supported with food proper to each class; and that one particular crop, on that ac- count, exhausts the substance on which it feeds if too frequently repeated. Practice has introduced more discoveries into agriculture, a>sisted by observation, than science. At the same time, though the man of science will not presume to dictate to the skill- ful practical farmer, he may not only improve but enlighten, and even give dignity to agricul- ture as an art, by rendering it in some degree a science. The application of manure depends on the natural state of the soil, and on the purposes for which it is to be applied. Observation and ex- perience determine how lo act and how to ap- ply; also how and when the application should be. Yet it would be of important use to the farmer, in remarkable cases, to call in the aid of science. Many expensive trials have been made in redeeming some soils, or turning them to usef ul purposes in vain. The farmer knows, or ought to know, that some soils v/ant solidity, and others ha‘’e too much , that some exceed in cohesion, others in looseness, and that a moderate degree of these properties is considered essential to fertility. With this view, sand is applied to tenacious clay; and day on sand and gravel. But these applications are not made in the strict order of manures; they are mechanically wanted, in or- der to give to the soils a proper consistence for admitting plants to grow in them, and to push their small roots without loosing hold, and at the same lime to feed in a regular manner, im- bibing in just proportion the moisture and nu- triment it contains without being either parched or burned. Putrid manures applied in proper quantities furnish direct nutriment for plants; and calca- reous manures probablv do the same, in some degree; but they certainly furnish indirectly, by resolving organic substances contained in the soil into a mucus assisted by moisture. At the same time these manures are always pro- ductive of mechanical effect, in opening and deepening the soils to which they are applied. From my own observation and experience, I have come to the conclusion that manure aris- ing fro'm animal and vegetable substances, should be exposed as little as possible to the sun, the air, and drenching rams, and when ap- plied to the soil, be immediately plovved in. It is my opinion also, that manure, when plowed in, cannot be kept too near ihe surface, provi- ded it is well mixed and so covered that the es- sence will be dissolved by rain, and taken up by the roots of the plants. So extremely minute are the mouths of the plants, that the nourishing parts of manure can enter there only in a state of solution by water. My object and aim is to make and get ma- nure; and to carry this into effect, nothing that would contribute in the least degree to increas- ing the manure heap is thrown away. I have always made it a practice of converting every article of rubbish and filth about my premises, weeds, and coarse grass around the fields and fences, into manure; and have even hauled sawdust, turner’s chips and sumach leaves, from the morocco dresser, to bed my cattle and absorb the urine previous to mixing in the com- post heap. I also haul anthracite coal ashes from the city, on which 1 set a high value for a top dressing on my meadows. But however correct and economical may be the manner of saving and applying manure, the quantity, it cannot be denied, still falls short of the farmer’s wants. How to apply this defi- ciency merits the deepest attention of the hus- bandman. I am an advocate for compost, and lor that purpose I mix all the produce of the cattle yard, the sheep yard, the horse stable, the pig stye, and the poultry house. The dung of the hog, owing to the greater fatness of the animal and the nature of its food, is the richest and strongest; that of the horse the most heating; that of cattle the coldest but the most durable. The dung of sheep is quick in operation; therefore the mixing of cattle, horse, hog, and sheep dung for all kinds of soils and ail kinds of crops is always to be preferred, as the one corrects the delects of the other, and prevents the fermenting process from going on too rapidly. The utility of fermented dung is proved from the little advantage derived from what is drop- ped upon the ground, and has not undergone that process. In the course of its being ferment- ed, also the seeds of weeds and the eggs of in- sects are destroyed. My yard is dishing, still it sometimes over- flows, and where the excess passes ofi^, I cause a basin to be excavated to retain the liquid. Near this basin, u'hich is outside the yard, 1 place my compost heap, which I commence w’iih a layer of yard manure, about one foot in thickness; then a coat of shell lime and ashes; then a layer of turf; then a layer of horse, hog, or sheep dung; then a coat of soil, and so on, with such materials as are available. In short, everything of a fertilizing nature is placed in the heap, carrying up the sides square until the pile reaches to the height of from five to six feet. As the heap progresses, each layer is sat- urated with the liquid which escapes from the cattle yards, and then covered with fine soil to prevent the escape of the volatile parts of the THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 77 manure, and in the next place, to absorb the gasses, so that the soil used for a covering be- comes itselt a valuable manure — a point long since established by the practice of many en- lightened farmers. After remaining a sufScient time I cause the whole heap to be caretully and completely turned and mixed, throwing on li- quid manure as the work progresses. A fer- mentation soon takes place, sufficient to destroy the vitality of the seeds of such weeds as may find their way into the heap. After two turn- ings it generally gets completely broken down and comminuted. By mixing a small quantity of salt to the heap, I have no doubt it would add greatly to its fertilizing properties. In this way I have added from one hundred to one hundred and fifty loads of good manure per year. I have used with good success bone dust, horn shavings, bristles, salt fish and poudrette. They are all highly concentrated manures, and are valuable for the immediate crop, but for after crops and enriching the soil durably, give me the compost heaps. I once had great laith in the use of gypsum, but after several experiments with it, I became satisfied that it was of no benefit on my soil, and I have therefore abandoned its use altoge- ther. C. N. Bement. Albany, Feb., 1846. General Treatment of Greeuliouse Plants. The practice of removing Greenhouse Plants into a higher temperature during the period of their growth, so well explained by Mr. Wood in his various comnrunications, cannot be too earnestly recommended. When it is consider- ed that in all the countries where they naturally grow, the summers are intensely hot, with clear sunny days, and heavy dews at night, how much quicker the growth of the plants and ripening of the young wood must be than can possibly happen in our dull, cloudy climate, even wdth the aid of glass. The universal custom of turn- ing Greenhouse Plants out of doors indis- criminately in the month of May, is doubtless one of the very worst modes of treatment that can possibly be adopted, especially w'hen, as is often the case, they are placed in some shady situation; at this period many are just begin- ning to grow, others have made some progress, but few or none are within many weeks of ter- minating their growth and ripening their youn? shoots, and it is very uncertain whether any of them, under such circumstances, even in the most favorable seasons, will accomplish their growin. consequently when the time arrives for housing, it will be founa that three-fourths of them are still in a growiisg slate, and now, when the short, cold, cloudy days have set in, they will continue to grow for weeks, and even months alter being brought into the Greenhouse. This mode of treatment can only end in dis- appointment ; at the lime they ought to be load- ed with flowers there may certainly be a few solitary blossoms, but anything like a full crop is eniirely our of the question. It is remarka- ble that Camellias appear to be the only family of plants that are righfly treated in this respect ; it does not seem to occur to many gardeners that all other hard-wooded Greenhouse Plants re- quire exactly the same treatment as Camellias ; but instead of so doing, at the very time the lat- ter are caretully shcii up in a higher tempera- ture, to encourage the growth and ripening of the youn? shoots, as the means of ensuring a fine display of flowers, all, or uearly all, the others are turned out of doors to take their chance of a hot or a cold summer, as the case may be. When Greenhouse Plants are housed for the winter, then is the time to judge whether they have been rightly treated. If such is the case, they will mostly have finished their growth ; the young shoots will have changed from a green to a red or brown color, and of a hard, firm texture, and the flower buds of many swelling out prominently, ready to start into flower with the slightest excitement, rendering the forcing them into flower at any lime when required an easy and simple matter. Not only Camellias, but Acacias, Boronias, Azaleas, Epacris, Corraeas, and in fact almost every kind of Greenhouse hard-wooded Plant, should be at rest, and ready to start into flower when the proper period arrives. On reading the reports of the London Horticultural Exhibitions we are olten surprised at the large dimensions of many of the plants therein mentioned, especial- ly when we read that many of them are only two or three years old! There cannot be a doubt thatthis is accomplished by placing them in a strong genial heat, at certain periods, and w'ill serve to show what can be effected in a short time under proper management. Although the treatment recommended above is applicable to alt hard-wooded plants, there are some beautiful things that will not thrive at all unless they are annually placed in a higher temperature to make their growth, and for want of such treatment are rarely seen in good health . Crowea saligna is a striking instance of this neglect, as it is generally seen starving in Greenhouses all the year round; instead ol which, it should be removed to the plant or pine stove in January, and allowed to remain till May or June, when it will grow like a willow, making shoots from 8 to 16 inches in length; and when removed to the Greenhouse it vimH continue to flower all through the summer, a perfect gem, with flowers twice the size w'e generally see it produce under the ordinary treatment it receives. As early as the month of January attention should.be directed to such plants as have done flowering and are beginning to grow; these should be removed to a higher temperature without delay, and it nece.ssary, it is the best time to shift them into larger pots, and when the youngshoots have growm twoorthree inches in length and taken oft' with a heel, they will srrike root better than at any other time. By attending to the gradual removal of the plants all through the spring months, and when hav- ing completed their growth, gradually to hard- en them for a week or two, and when ready to be placed out of doors lor the summer, they may then, with peifect safety, be placed in a shady situation, and remain out as long in the autumn as they may be safe from severe frost. In large establishments a house entirely devoted to this purpose would be very useful ; where this is not the case vineries, pine-stoves, pits, &c., may all be made available, and without much inconvenience, for this purpose, and even a brick pit without artificial heat, if kept pretty close, wouldbe very useful in forwarding the growth of palms. I have been induced to dwell at some length on the above subject, from a firm conviction that it is not so generally or extensively put in practice as it deserves to be. \_Robt; Reid.} Nutritious Food. — A very interesting report on the comparative nutritive properties of food was lately presented to the French Minister of the Interior by Me.ssrs. Percy and Vanquelin, twomembeisol the Institute. The result ol their experiment is as follows: In bread, every hundred pounds’ weight are found to contain 80 lbs. ol nutritious matter ; butcher meat, avera- ging the various sorts, contain only 31 lbs. in 100 lbs.; French beans, 25 lbs.; peas, 23 lbs. ; lentiles, 94 lbs.; greens and turnips, which are the most aqueous of all vegetables used lor do- mestic purpose', furnish only 8 lbs. ol solid nu- tritious substance in 100 lbs. ; carrots 14 lbs.; and what is very remarkable, as being in oppo- sition to the acknowledged theory, 100 lbs. of potatoes onlv yield 35 lbs. of substance valua- ble as nutritious. According to this estimate, I lb. of good bread, is equal to 2r or 3 ibs. of best potatoes ; and 75 lbs. of bread, and 30 lbs. of butcher meat are equal to 300 lbs. of potatoes. Or, again, 1 lb. ol rice or of broad beans is equal to 3 lbs. of potatoes; while I lb. ol potatoes is equal to 4 lbs. of cabbage, and to 3 lbs. of turnips. This calculation is considered per- fectly correct, and may be useful to families where the best mode of supporting nature should be adopted at the least expense — Chamberis Ed- inburgh Jvurnal. Draining Lands. — Nothing is more satisfac- tory than the demand for the means of draining lands as evinced by the constant efforts which are making to provide tile-machines w’hich shall manufacture them cheaply and well. We have to direct the attention of our readers to an adver- tisement in last week’s number, which states that amachine capable ol delivering SOOfeeloer hour of tiles 34 inches by 34 is on exhibition at No. 14 South-street, Manchester-square, Lon- don, where any one interested in draining land may attend and judge of its efficacy. Messrs. B. Denton and Charnock, who are connected with it, are well known by their useful writings on the subject of drainage — English paper. Pancakes. — Pancakes are made of eggs, flour and milk, in the proportion of a table- spoonfull of flour to each egg. To make two small pancakes, take two eggs and beat them well, and add to them a little milk. Ti en take two table-spoonfulls of flour and woik it into batter with the egg and milk; add a Itttle salt. Set a clean fi ving-pan on the fire, put a piece of butter or lard into it. When the butter is quite hot, pour in the batter. Shake it frequently to prevent it from sticking. When the unaerside is of a light brown, turn it. Serve the pan- cakes folded, with sugar strewed between the folds. This is the way of dre-smg the common, pancake: when required to be lighter, use more egg and less flour; and grated nutmeg may be added. Fritters. — Make a baiter of eggs, flour and milk, as for pancakes, but with a little more flour. Apple fritters are made by cutting large pared apples in slices, dipping the slices in the batier and fry ing them separately. They are done when slightly browned on both sides. Another, and perhaps more common wav, is to cut the apples in small pieces, and mix them, with the batter, frying them, a spoonful in each fritter. Fritters may be made v iih currants in the same manner. Serve all fritters with sugar sprinkled over them. Manure FOR Onions. — I have always suc- ceeded in the following wav, being the surest and most economical : Take oft about 4 inches of the earth on the surface, the length and width ol your bed, so that the ground under be solid. Spread stable-dung w'ell over, about 4 inches in thickness, and then cover the same over with the earth taken from the surface. — Sow yr iir seeds rough, and you are almost sure of an abundant crop; and the land is the best for parsnips and carrots the following year. — R. J. F. OLtery. Egotism. — “When a man knows not what to talk ol, it is a hundred chances to one that he speaks of himself; it is thus so many good sort of people are unconsciously intruding on their acquaintances personal concerns and domestic details, wholly uninteresting save to their own feelings. It is very observable to see when two magnates of this class meet, how their pecu- liarities clash and strive tor the mastery; nor are their subsequent criticisms on the failings of each other the least pitiable trait ol the blind- ing influence of egotism.” A Divf, for a Husb.and. — A young lady was told by a married one that she had better pre- cipitate herseif off the Niagara Falls, into the basin below, than to mar.-y. The young lady replied, “I would il I thought 1 could find a husband at the bottom.” Rum for the Navy. — The distillers, says the W'orcester Transcript, have one good customer left. The Government, we perceive, has adver- tised for sixhj thousand gallons of rum (or the navy alone. 78 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. iH0ntl)la Calenbar. Altered from the American Agriculturist's Almanac for 1814, and arranged to suit the Southern States. CALENDAR FOR MAY. [The following brief hints to the farmer, planter and gardener, will be fonnd to apply not only to the month under which they are arranged, but, owing to diversity of seasons, climate and soils, they may frequently an- swer for other months. This precaution the consider- ate agriculturist will not fail to notice and apply in all cases where his judgment and experience may dictate.] The best fresh manure for the meadow, is a well mixed compost. All the new barn j’ard manure should be scattered over the ground be- fore plowing, and plowed under, and it any of it is too long to be turned in conveniently, let it be placed in the furrow with a fork and covered by the succeeding furrow slice. It is a com- mon error to manure in the hill. This ought seldomly to be done. If the land is well pul- verized, as it always ought to be, the rootlets ot the plants will find their proper food, it planted within suitable distances; and instead of the manure yielding all its nutriment to the young plant, it will be thus held in reserve to be given up as required during the whole growth of the season. Corn, perhaps, is the most important crop in the United States, and is particularly deserving the farmer’s attention. It is compu- ted by Mr. Ellsworth, that the crop of 1842 ex- ceeded 441,000,000 bushels, which is, perhaps, an over-estimate. The stalks of this invalua- ble grain are, in many parts of the country, worth the expense of cultivation, thus leaving the whole crop of grain for profit and the use of Ihe ground. To procure the best seed and cultivate properly, is surely, then, a great ob- ject for the farmer. A rich soil should be used, sufficiently dry, and well pulverized. Mr. Young, of Kentucky, who has raised the aston- ishing amount of 190 bushels of shelled corn to the acre, says, he plows his land in the fall, cross-plows it in the spring, and plants from 8 to 12 grains in each hill, at a distance of three feet apart each way ; covering six inches deep. As soon as the corn is up he starts a large har- row with a double team directly over the rows of corn, letting the horses walk in the adjoining furrows. A lew days after, he plows with the bar next the corn. This again completely stirs the soil. He then thins to four stalks in a hill, and plows three times more. The choicest kinds of corn only ought to be used for seed, and if steeped in a strong solution of saltpetre before planting, it will protect it from crows and grubs, and give it an early and rapid start. Po- tatoes are a very important crop, and as they furnish so large a share of our vegetable food, it is of great consequence to get the best seed, which may be such as give a good yield, and afford a solid, mealy root, of pleasant flavor w’hen boiled. In dry land they may be planted in furrows; if cold or wet, they should be plant- ed on ridges. Rich land is best suited to them. Meadows should now have attention. When the waste of the barn, or house, or roads, can be led to them, they will be found to thrive very much from it. VVhere the meadows have been laid down long in grass, the roots should be par- ticularly examined, and if found thin or mossy and the sod hard, a fine compost ought to be .spread on it, at the rate of eight to sixteen loads per acre; then grass seeds of the kind requir- ed, then harrowjed with a fine, sharp-toothed harrow. Ashes are peculiarly suited to grass land, as potash and its silicate are the principal materials of which the ground is exhausted by this crop, which are contained in them in large proportions. If herds-grass or timothy occu- pies the ground, it is best to omit the use of plaster. When it is desirable to promote the growth of the clovers, plaster may be sowed freely. If not before done, finish sowing hemp seed and planting tobacco and castor beans. Kitchen Garden.— In the fore part of this month all the early cucumbers, melons, cabba- ges, cauliflowers, Ifititce, radishes, &c., which have been taken out of the hot bed, remove and transplant into the open ground. All kinds of table vegetables, as peas, beans, beets, onions, parsnips, carrots and esculent herbs, should be sown early. Tomatoes, egg-plants, peppers, (&.C., can be planted out. Fruit Garden and Orchard. — All kinds of fruit and forest treees and shrubs that have not leaved out, transplant immediately. Spring inoculating may still be performed in the early part of the month. Strawberry beds may also be planted out, and the suggestions in the cal- endar for April concerningpruning be observed. Flower Garden and Pleasure Grounds. — The borders of the flower garden should be finished, and perennial herbaceous plants transplanted,. Sow seeds of autumnal flowers in seed beds, to be transplanted at a future lime. Set out box edging early in the month, or it will be liable to suffer from the drought. Trim hedges and shrubs. Give the lawns and pleasure grounds a top-dressing of ashes or stable manure, and put the gravel-walks and carriage-ways in or- der. Plantation. — Much of the work for this month is influenced not only by the good man- agement of the farmer in cleaning such portion of his crop as demands it, but by the quality of the plowing, done previous to planting. The month of May is considered the most important of the whole year, when we take into view the cultivation of a growing crop; be- cause much of the labor is depending on the quality and quantity of work done now. If done well, as it should be, the crop will not become foul so soon, and if much of it be done, the husbandman will be able to receive his re- turn so much the earlier. The cotton plants must be cleaned oulas ear- ly as possible, with the turning plow, after the first leaves are developed. Throw the earth from the plants, leaving ^ portion of the bed, which must be thoroughly cleaned, whether it be covered n ith weeds or not. Make it your object to return to your cotton fields as early as possible, not exceeding a week. Run around through the rows with a bull-tongue plow, and at the same time plow deep near the plants. A few daj^s after plowing draw the earth around the stems with a hoe. If this second working be done early, and the plants be left in good condition, you will find much of your after work comparatively easy. Before the end of the month, the plants will be large enough to dirt with a large shovel plow, which should be now used, and the entire middle broken out deep and thoroughly. Keep your corn fields in good order, and at the second plowing, drop peas, ten to fifteen in number, between the hills ot corn, so that the plow will cover them, and you will “/aff iioo birds with one stone." See that your cane fields are kept clean; an ! that your tobacco plantsare not eaten by worms. If previously neglected, rice may be sown this month. As large crops, however, cannot be expected from it as if plant- ed in March or April. When cane has grown about 18 inches high, a small quantity of earth should be drawn back to the plant; and in the course of the two suc- ceeding dressings a bed should be formed for them five or six inches in depth. In new lauds notwithstanding the weeds, much less hoeing is done on account of the luxuriance of the cane. Most of the winter grain that was .sown in October will require cutting this month. That to be used for feeding stock should be cut just before it begins to turn yellow, and that for seed leave until fully ripe. Those who have bedded out their sweet po- tatoes must set out the drawings every rain, having hills or ridges already prepared. Silk worms will have wound their cocoons from the 1st to the 20th of this month. Those you wish to reel, put in the hot sun a day or two, or place them in a close vessel, with a lit- tle gum camphor, in order to kill the chrysa- lides, and they can be reeled at leisure. Those intended for producing eggs lor the next crop, must be selected and placed on a moist paper, in a cool dark room. The garden is an indispensable requisite, and all that is necessary at this season, is to keep it clean, well stirred, or to sow occasional- ly endiye, or cabbages for fall; radishes, lettuce and peas, so as to give a succession of these vegetables. Keep them well watered in dry weather, and protect them by shade if neces- sary. Asricultural Correspondeuce. Col. Ales. AIcDonatd, Eufaula, Ala. : Dear Sir: — Your exertions in the cause in which I love to labor, induce me to ask — is there any good and sufficient cause why we may not be acquainted? If not, 1 ask that we may at once be, as if we had been personally introduced. I know not the whereabouts your residence is, and suppose Barbour county is in a portion of the Cherokee country. I have a number of acquaintances and friends in Alaba- ma, and would refer you to some of them, that you might learn “of whom is this man who asks my acquaintance.” Until you meet with some one, 1 beg to be my own spokesman. I am 40 years of age, neither rich, talented or good looking ; but 1 possess as much zeal for our cause as any other, and regret my want of ability to carry out my heart’s desire. I am well known to H. W. Hilliard, to S. J. McMor- ris, in Wetumpka, Col. Carter, (my brother-in- law.) at Mt. Meigs, and others scattered about. I have no pretensions to much knowledge. I have learned much from the field, from book,s andknowirg that others are, where 1 was, my object is only to excite in them a spirit of in- quiry, believing that our Great Master has gi- ven to the larger mass of my fellows as much intellect as he has awarded to me, I only ask of them to use the talents so given and then to try to induce others. I have perused, with pleasure, many of your writings, probably all of them, and hope you will not regard me as intrusive in this matter. There are so very few in this country who take any interest in the welfare of their fellows, or in the true success and glory of our country, that my heart yearns towards an acquaintance. As I am a Southerner bv birth and education — born and educated in Columbia, S. C. — I pre- sume my advance will be attributed onZy to a desire ot forming an acquaintance, with the two-fold object of knowing you, and to learn. Now sir, is this sufficient. Well. In your statements as to your past crop, I observe you plant 120 acres in corn, and gathered 1300 bushels; also, that you plant corn 6 by 2, with a row of peas between. Allow me to ask, why so much distance? I began planting on this place, (within a mile of Big Black, about 15 miles east of Vicksburg,) in 1831, and then planted corn 5 by 2. For seve- ral years I was scant, until, by accident, I be- gan to plant 4 by about 20 inches or under The difference from 15 bushels to full 30 or Last year I had 85 acres in corn, 15 of it new ground, that 1 gathered very little from, feeding it infield — I housed 2400 bushels. In 1844, I hadllO acres in corn, and had from 20 acres, not over 150 to 200 bushels, the stand injured from overflow, and I did notcultivate— I housed 3050 bushels. I gathered this year, flora the oldest land on this place 50 bushels per acre. My plan is to flush deep, cover shallow, push early, lay by early and sow peas at the rate of one-iliird of a bushel per acre, as early as I can lay by. The peas cover the land, and assured- ly have enriched my land. I also use all my cotton seed not wanted for planting, as manure, and use them for cotton. I think, with a soil that contains lime, I can improve land in five years from twenty to thirty bushels. The evidence is on this place. In 1837 and ’38, with ordinary overseers, land ma- nured with cotton seed, yielded not 20 bushels ; in 1844, the same land, without manure, yield- ed 35 bushels. I plant thin land two years in corn and one in cotton, and feel well assured tnat with peas I improve my land, and my neigh- bors admit it. I am not in a condition to drain my land ; if I could do so effectually, 1 think it would never wear out. I am living in comparatively a new THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 79 country, and yet there are many who cannot make within one third of what they did ten years ago, whilst this farm is certainly impro- ving. My reliance has been the cowpea; true, I use cotton seed, stable, cow-lot and hog pen manure, but what are all these to 100 acres in cow peas? I have reserved all my cotton seed this season to use in the drill for cotton. I have 40 acres in- tended for an orchard, the most of it planted; I wish to improve the land and think by planting in the drill that I can manure the 40 acres year- ly and thus keep it all up — and no doubt but what f will increase the yield somewhat. My orchard lot is the oldest cleared land here. I did gather in 1833, not 900 lbs per acre — this last year I gathered over J 500 lbs, from a part, and 50 bushels of corn from another part. This done principally with cotton seed sown broadcast, and sweet potatoes planted two years in one place. I have been plantingsince January, ’31— you are an older planter— I cannot give you any in- formation, but would like to have your experi- ence. If convenient and agreeable, I would ask of you an answer, and I would add, a permission to use any thing you may deem worthy of your time in writing me. Which permission I cheer- fully grant you may use any thing herein, that you may deem worth your attention. I am, dear sir, very respectfully yours, M. W. Phillips, Hinds Co.. Miss., Feb., 1846, M. W. Phillips, Esq. — Dear Sir— Your very interesting letter of the 20th ult, came to hand by the last mail ' Will you here permit me to thank you fordoing what 1 feel I should have long since done, to wit — the brerkingthrough the ice, and, at once com- mencing a correspondence on the highly impor- tant subject embraced in your letter. It is no flattery, because it is true, to say that I have for the last three years been instructed, and I hope benefitted, by the many able productions from your pen which I have found in the Tennessee Agriculturist, as v/ell as other Agricultural pa- pers I take, I have twenty limes had a mind to sit down and write you,- but have as often ne- glected to do so. Thus you can readily form an opinion of the pleasure your letter afforded me. In giving an account of yourself, you have drawn a very correct picture of the individual you address, with the exception that 14 addition- al years have marked my appearance. Still, I consider myself much your junior in the highly importantand interesting subject of Husbandly, lam with yourself, a Southerner, by birth and education — I never lived any where, except in the State of Georgia, until I settled in this town nine years past. I find you are mistaken as to the location of my residence. The beautiful town ofEufaula lies on the bank of the Chattahoochee river, in latitude 31|. My small farm (much of it bro- ken and all of it poor pine land,) lies within 4-J miles of the town. It is about equally divided by the Barbour creek, which runs directly through it. On one side of the creek the land is level, and is what we call, in this section, pine flats; there is no timber, except the long leaf pine, w'ith an occasional oak and hickory. The other side of the creek is very broken and poor. This broken land is the land I planted in corn 6 by 2 feet with peas in the centre. 1 plant it in drills, on the horizontal system. It is my inten- tion to abandon the cultivation o( this broken land as soon as I can, (and think I will be able if spared, to effect my object,) and bring up the level land to 50 bushels of corn and 2000 lbs of cotton per acre. I am, at this time, making an effort to accomplish this object. I have hauled out, since the first of January, with a team of mules, two carts and steers, 35,000 bushels of conapost manure, and have yet much to haul. — This compost is prepared by hauling into a lot, (previously arranged for its reception, by sink- ing it in the centre and raising it round theouter edge,) equal parts or nearly so, of blue marl. which abounds iu this section of the country, and the long leaf pine straw, raked up in the woods, with the treading of cattle, which are regularly penned, to the number of forty, every night in the lot; I have also hauled in the lot, quantities of cotton stalks, which are trodden to pieces by the cattle. As l his system of manuring is, entirely an experiment, I would thank you for your opinion of my plan of manuring. But first, I will give you the manner I have adopted iu placing the compost on the land. I first spread it broadcast, turning it under with the turning plow as deep as possible with one mule — we then lay off the rows lour feet, with a wide shovel plow as deep as we can, filling this furrow and bedding on it. You will find the analysis ofthe blue marl, at page 167 of the 2dvol. ofthe Southern Cultivator. 1 wouldthankyou foryouropinion ofthe Ber- muda grass for pasturage. Will it do well in this climate on poor land? I am well acquainted with one of the gentle- men you mention — H. W. Hilliard — he repre- sents this district in Congress. He has recent- ly sent me some seeds from the Patent office. — I have taken the liberty, as 1 find he takes an in- terest in agriculture, of urging him, (should he take the same view ofthe subject I do,) to in- terest himself in the passage of a law by Con- gress, to appropriate the Smithsonian Bequest for the establishment of a model farm, to be lo- cated in some central point in the United States. Such an eslablishmert as this, would be ofin- finite importance to the American people. The operation of different kinds of manure on dif- ferent soils, the trial of the various kinds of Ag- ricultural implements, the comparison and va- lue of the different kinds of stock, could all be tested, together with many other highly valua- ble experiments. Indeed, there is no telling the great value that such an establishment would be to American Agriculture. With the greatest respect, &c., Alexander McDonald. Enfaula, Barbour Co,, Ala., Feb. 12, 1846. From the American (Griffin, Ga.) Whig. Deep Plowing. Various experiments have been made in this part of Georgia, by plowing deep, and those who have tried it with the kind of plow in common use, so far as we are informed, re- port against the experiment. We had a con- versation some lime since with a friend on this subject, who stated that the theory of deep plowing, and the arguments used by many in fa- vor of that mode of culture, had induced him to try it on a piece of ground of several acres, which he described as being what we call hickory flat,” which before it was cleared was covered with a growth of post-oak, and red oak and hickory, and most of the undergrowth were of hickory, with large “stool grubs.” This kind of growth our farmers know is generally considered as indicative of a free productive soil, and amongst the best of our uplands. Our informant slated that the piece on which his experiment was tried, had been cleared about two years, and was in preparation for the third crop. The plow used was the common turning plow, by the use of which ail the earth loos- ened by plowing was turned bottom up, and the effect w'asthat the ground failed to produce as well as the surrounding fields for several years afterwards. We have known of another experiment upon stubble land that had been cleared a number of years. After the crop of small grain had been cut off in the summer the srass and weeds were left to grow till late in the fall, when a turning plow was used for the purpose of covering up all vegetable matter on the ground. This, like the other, proved an injuiy from w^hich the land did not recover under two or three years. Ex- periments like these have deterred our farmers in this section of the country, from adopting the system of plowing deep, so advantageously used in other parts of the United States, That plowing deep w'ith a turning plow, in some places, has been done to advantage, none can deny, w'ho are at all disposed to believe what they read; but that the same mode of culture will prove advantageous in all kinds of lands, is a theory that our reason will not permit us to admit as true. As well might we expect to cure all kinds of diseases of the human system with the same medicine, as to use the same mode of culture, in preparing the different kinds of earth for production, with success. That a great deal can be done in pre- paring ground for cultivation, reason would teach us is true; but, that such preparation should be according to the formation and nature of the soil, is equally true. We have read and reflected a great deal upon the expe- rience of others; and when we read of a certain mode of culture having proved successful, our mind, as by instinct, seems to inquire, on what kind of soil the experiment was tried. Prom the experiments we have read of, in all the dif- ferent kinds of soil, w'e have come to Ihe delib- erate conclusion, which seems to be well sup- ported by reason, that all lands, of whatever kind, should be plowed deep, in order to produce to the best advantage. Lands which have a deep soil, may be plowed to advantage with a turn- ing plow; but the clay, or the strata of earth which usually lies immediately under the soil, should never be turned on lop. If, therefore, Ihe soil is deep enough to admit the plow as deep as may be desired, without reaching below it, a turning plow is perhaps the best ; but such land as we usually cultivate in this part of the country, has a soil too thin to use such plows with a (good effect. We should therefore adopt the sub-soil plow, or one that will pulverize and loosen the earth to a considerable depth, without turning the soil underneath. Ourred lands have been found, by experience, to show the effect of drought sooner ; and the crops grow- ing on them to suffer more severely, than a light gray soil. And the reason is obviously this: It will be found from examination that in all our red lands the clay comes very near the top of the ground, and is generally very close and compact, so that without a great deal of ic. in, it never gets thoroughly wet. The loose soil on the top ofthe clay, which is usually stirred with the plow, receives the water when it rains un- til it is properly wet, and would impart it to the clay beneath, were it in a situation to re- ceive it; but the clay being so firm and close, the water is forced to remain above it, which, af- ter properly saturating the loose earth, stands in puddles on the top of the grounds, from whence it is soon evaporated by the air and the rays of the sun. And so soon as the heat of the sum- mer’s sun penetrates to the depth that the earth is loosened by the plow, and by its evapora- ting influence extracts the waterabove the day, the crops begin to suffer for the want of more rain. In such lands, if the clay could be pro- perly broken and pulverised to a considerable depth, by means of a sub-soil plow, without turning it on top of the ground, and put in a condition to receive and retain' moisture from the falling of rain, and to such a depth that the drying influence of the sun and air would have but little impression on it, the moisture thus se- cured would be naturally imparted to the loose earth above, where the roots of vegetation would receive their support from it. Soutlieru Folly. From the Southern .Miscellany. Mr. Editor: —I promised, in ray former com- munication, to point out in this some means byr which, in my humble opinion, our general pros- perity, as a people, might be advanced, by a change in some of the habits and occupations followed and pursued to make gain. I do not war in feeling with the common pursu its of our planters, whose ways and means in their regular settled policy has become to them a kind of second nature ; they are doing as they have been taught by their ancestors, and whether right or wrong they are not so much to blame. They are generally striving very hard, and are 80 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. making all the cotton and corn they can— cot- ton to make England, the more jNorthern and Ecstsrn States rich, and corn to subsist upon in making that cotton. It is true, they Irequent- ly have some thousands ol dollars to spare: this they lay out in the purchase of negroes — to make more cotton to buy more negroes— -and they prosper very n.tich, sometimes, in the in- crease ot servants, with which they wear out and destroy all the good land around them, and are generally compelled to move to new and fresh countries at that time of life when quiet and repose are necessary to relieve them from the anxieties of life — their sun too olien sets amidst clouds and storms, and their evening of life is lull ot bitterness and distress. The cultivation of cotton — whch isalmostan exclusive one in this section of country, from which to make income and profit — will both ru- in the land, unsettle and remove every planter who follows it ; it w'ill depopulate every neigh- borhood of the kind of persons necessary lor the prosperity of it — break up schools, stores and means ot social intercourse, and in the course ot time it will be found impracticable to have the districts of our cotton-making countries or- ganized with judicial and military officers. I think the time is not far distant when new laws necessary tor a provisionary organization of the countries and districts thus vacated will be ab- solutely required. I could refer to several of the most prospe- rous fanners amongst us, who have only made cotton a secondary mailer ; they are now better off in every resp -ct than those who have done otherwise; iheir lands and farms generally are in a better condition, and everything around them seems to be better provided lor. The vast amount abstracted from our counties every year lor pork and mules is enormous. It is a disgrace to us. But to return to the subject of a vacated country. Some means must positively be made to regain the population of the counties, and f think there is only one way to do it, We must become manufacturers ot our own great staples— • particularly cotton. We are doing finely in the way of superior flour, but cotton goods and cotton yarns are the greatest articles to produce wealth— to give employ- ment to thousands and to make our State in the course of time, (it we will energetically cany it out,) the finest country under the sum 1 rejoice that we have some noble-hearted men who have ventured in dark times, large sums in manufactories, ani a ■re .still resolved to do so in spite of fires an i trials enough to daunt ordina- ry men. They will notonlv enhance the value of evcryihing around them, but will give em- plovineni, food and raiment to many who would otherwise scarcely eat a cheerful meal— for the people of Georgia are poor indeed! Little villages will, in the course of time, spring up in the neighborhood of all the laciories, and prosperity will be seen on every hand; every- thing to spare lor miles around will find ready sale, and much of the deserted lands will again “ bloom and blossom like the rose.” I do not hesitate. to say, that if every one cl our up-country villages, had in them one or two manufacturing esiablishments--moved by steam power where water could hot be had with con- venience— it would soon make them show the difference betwixt woik, money, trade, popula- tion and prosperity, and the presentdull, gloomy, spiritless loatering seen in almost every up- countrv and low-country town in this State. We yRxiil wake up ! We are just about as near ly below par as we can staud ; and a few year.s more— sending off ou r cotton at from 3 to 5 els, a pound, for Massachusetts to make it worth from one to three dollars, bv their ingenuity and perseverance — and we are ruined beyond re- demption. 1 will say mofe hereafter. R. Ttis Co.VTRAST. — A lady writing Irom Lon- don says ihai she can always tell an American girl from an English one; there being the same difference between them as exists between a dish of “chicken fixins” and a round of beef. Back Volumes of the Southern Cultivator. The Work complete from its commencement. Volumes I., II. and 111. of the “Southern Cultivator,” can be supplied to all who may desire the work from its commencement, at the subscription price— One Dollar each volume. The back numbers of the present volume are sent to alt new Subscribers. COWTEHTS OF THIS HUMBER. ORIGINAL PAPERS. Address, delivered before the Liberty County Agricultural Society, by J. P. Stevens, (con- cluded; ." page 65 Agricultural Experiments “ 73 Agricultural Society Talbot County “ 75 Hear-Grass “ 75 Corn, culture of “ 75 Cow-peas — Sea Island Colton — Inquiries “ 74 From an Old Correspondent — Proposition..,.. “ 74 Marl “ 72 Mr Farrar’s Proposition ' •* 72 Plowing, deep “ 73 Plowing. English “ 72 Sea Island Cotton — Gins — Barley “ 74 SouUierii Hemp “ 72 Southern Cultivator, the “ 72 Sheep and the Shepherd’s Dog.......,., “ 72 Sumach “ 75 To the Editor “ 74 SELECTIONS, EXTRACTS, &C. Agr icultural Science i n Frai.ce “ 73 Agricul rural Society Barbour County, (Ala.). . . “ 75 Agricnilural Correspondence “ 78 Farm Management ; or Practical Hints to a Young Beginner page 66 Filberts “ 71 Fritters, to make “ 77 Breeding Aniiiials “ 6S Ctab-Grass Hay — Pea Vine, &c 71 D raining Land.,,.,,.,,,.,,..,,.,.,,..,.,,,., n yy Green House Plants, general treatment of “ 77 Loc.kjdw, remedy for “ 67 Manures — Their “ 76 Manure for Cnions “ 77 Monthly Calendar- -for May “ 73 Nutritious Food “ 77 Rhubarb, or Pte Plant. “ 69 Southern Folly a- 79 Southern Hemp, or Bear Grass “ 70 Sheep ‘1 63 Sumach, culture of “ 69 Shepherd’s Dogs « 73 Plowing, deep .i 79 Psessing the Earth, benefits of ti 69 Pancakes, to make “ 77 Jerusalem Artichoke “ 70 ANIS FlS2f.,a> SEili>S. A GENERAL assortment of fresh and genu- ine Garden and Field Seed, among which ate the foil owing : Red -and white clover, Blue and green grass. Rye and orchard do Timothy and herds do ftlillet and Lucerne do Seed corn of every valiia- Buckwheat tfepotato oats, Seed wheat, [ble variety Kept constantly on hand by the subscriber, all o which are offered for sale at veiy moderate prices. All orders, by mail or otherwise, executed with neat' ness and despatch. \Vm Haines, .Is., 1 No. 2.32, Broad-street, Augusta, Ga. NEW YORK AG55 SC UAi'8'UlS A L ^^AiSEJSOESE* Having Taken the commodious Store, No 187 Water-street, the subscriber is now opening the Largest and most complete assortment of Agricultural Implements of all kinds, ever yet offered in this market. Most of these are of new and higtily improved pattern, warrant- ed to be made of the best materials, put together in the strongest manner, of a very superior finish, and offer- ed at the lowest cash prices. seeds for TflE FARMER. Such as Improved Winter and Spring Wheat, Rye. Barley, Oats, Corn, Beans, Peas, Rutabaga, Turnip, Cabbage, Beet. Carrot, Parsnip, Clover and Grass- seeds, improved varieties of Potatoes. WISE-CLOTHS AND SIEVES. Different kinds arid sizes constantly on Irand. FERTILIZERS. Peruvian and African Guano, Poudrelte, Boiiedust, Lime, Plaster of Pans, &c. FRUIT AND ORNAMENTAL TREES AND SHRUBS, (tiders taken for these, and executed from a choice of the best Nurseries, Gardens, and Corservatories in the United Slates. HORSES, CATTLE, SHEEP, SWINE AND POULTRY. Orders executed for slock of all kinds, to the best adv.rntage The subscriber requests samples sent to him of any new or improved Implements, Seeds, &c., &c., which, if lound valuable, extra pains will be taken to bring them before the public. A. B. ALLEN, - 137 Water-street, New York. PROSPECTUS OF THE FOURTH VOLUME OF THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR, A MONTHLY JOURNAL, Devoted to the Improvement of Southern Agriciilture, Edited by JAMI3S CAMAK, of Atlxeus. In submitting to the Southern Public the Pro- spectus for the Fourth Volume of the SOUTH- ERN CULTIVATOR, which may now be re- garded as permanently established, the Publish- ers deem it unnecessary to advert to the high character the Work has attnined under the edito- rial control ol Mr. CAMAK, and therefore make a direct appeal to the Planters and Friends ol Agriculture throughout the Southern States, to aid them in sustaining a publication devoted ex- clusively to the cause of Southern Agriculture The advantages and benefits resulting from Agricultural Periodicals, have been felt and ac knowledged by the intelligent and refleciing Til- .ers of the Soil in all civilized nations; to be most useful, therefore, they should be extensive- ly circulated among all classes of Agriculturists; if possible, they should be in the hands of every man who tills an acre of land, and to this end we invoke the aid of every one who feels an in- terest in the improvement of the Agriculture of the South. The first number of the Fourth Volume will be issued on the 1st of January next. It is pub- lished Monthly, in Q,uarto form ; each number contains sixteen pages of matter, 9 by 12 inches square. TERMS i One copy, one year 81.00 Six copies'* “ 5 00 Twenty- Five copies, one yeah 20.00 One Hundred “ “ “ 75 00 The Cash System will be rigidly enforced. The CASH irust always accompany the order. J. W. & W. S. JONES, Augusta, Ga., Nov., 1845. 53" As we desire to regulate our issue by the number of subscribers, all persons who obtain subscribers are requested to send the lists as ear- ly as possible to J. W. & W. S. Jones. SUPPLY ot the following varieties of fresh Turnep Seed, just received, viz : Yellnw Sweedish or rutabaga, very fine for stock. Large globe turnep, I y tab le White fiat do Hanover or while ruta baga do ) use. Norfolk do For sale in quantities to suit purchaies 1 Wm. Haines, Jr., Broad-st. A MAM'llOTfl WEEKLY FAMILY KEWSP.IPEK. FOR TWO DOLLARS A YEAR!! QL[)C iDi^ekln QTiirDuicle ^ Sentinel, The Largest and Cheapest Family N ewspaper in the Southern States, 28 by 46 inches, containing 36 col- umns, is now published at the low rate of TWO DOL- LARS per annum, in advance. 1 J. W. & W. S. JONES, Proprietors. ®lje Sontljern (Huitinator Is published on the first of every month, at Augusta, Ga. J. W. & W. S JONES, PROPRIETORS. EDITED BY JAMES CAMAK, OF ATHENS, GA. TERMS.-ONE DOLLAR A YEAR. 1 copy, one year $i oo 1 25 copies, one year,. .®20 oo 6 copies, “ 5 00 1 100 copies, " ..75 oo [All subscriptions must commence with the volume.) The Cash System will be rigidly adhered to, and in no case will the paper be sent unle.ss the money accompanies the order. ADVERTisEMENTspertainingto Agriculture, will be in- serted for ONE DOLLAR for every square of ten lines or less, for the first insertion, and sevbnty-five cents per square for each continuance. p::^ALL COMMUNICATIONS, MUST BE POST PAID, and addressed to JAMES CAMAK, Athens, Georgia. VoL. f Y. AUGUSTA, GA., JUNE, 1846. No. 6. A LETTER ADDRESSED TO THE AOKrCULTUEAL SO- CIETY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, GA. BY J. H, HAMMOND. Dear Sm .'—I embrace the earliest opportuni- tY my other engagements haYe allowed me, of fulfilliag my promise to compfy ^ith the re- quest of 3''oar Society, to give them such infor- mation as I possess in regard to Marl. I am happy to learn that an interest in this matter has bean excited in your county, and if in what I am about to say, I shall fail to meet all the in- quiries which might be made, .t will afford me great pleasure to communicate more fully on particular points, at any timi^ereafier. Aware of the strong pre^dice existing tSo generally aiiiong farmers against everything neio in farming, it may not be amiss for me to begin by sa3'ing, that however new to us marl- ing may have been a few years ago, it is in point of fact one of the very oldest agricultural operations ol which we have any authentic re- cord. Pliny, who wrote during the first century of our era, mentions marl ns having been long in use among the Greeks and also in Gaul and Britain. He describes pretty accurately the ap- pearance of all, or nearly all, the kinds of marl now known. He even specifies the peculiar effects of each on sods, and states the length of lime these effects were supposed to last, which was from 10 to 80 years, according to the qual- ity of the marl and the Ihnd marled. Varro, who wrote a century belore Pliny, mentions having seen fields in Gaul covered with a “ white fossil clay,” and also describes several varieties of mar! as in common use. Although these writers, because ignorant of the discoveries of modern science, make great blunders in attempting to account for the extra- ordinary influence exertet! by this earth on vege- tation, and to discriminate between its varieties, still it is unquestionable that the ” leucar^Ulon" of the Greeks, the fossicia crela’’ of Varro and the ‘^marga” of Pliny, were no other than the- same kinds of marl we find here, and which at this day so many enterprising farmers, both in Europe and America, are actively and exten- sively engaged in spreading over their fields, and which have been continuously used for that purpose more or less from the remotest ages. Marling, then, is certainly no novelty — no untried experiment, than can for a nao.ment be classed among modern humbugs. There is no question, however, that the want of chemical knowledge has in time past led to great errors in its application and consequent failures— often to serious injury from its use. When the element in marl which gives it its chief virtue, and also its certain and its proba- ble ch.einical action on the soil and its growth, were all unknown, every new application of it was to some extent an experiment which might or might not succeed. It is a great proof of its universal value, that so many succeeded as to maintain its reputation and consequent use. Mr. Rufiin, of Virginia, was the first in this country to explain on scientific principles the true nature of marl, its mode of action, and the proper manner of applying it, and to carry his theory through the oideal of successful ex- periment. He is the founder of the marling system among us, for which he will be long and deservedly ranked among public benefac- t»ns. His “Essay on Calcareous Manure,” contains every thing that it is important to ’ know about marl and marling. Throughout my operations, it has been my guide, and it is still, I believe, far in advance of anything that has yet been published in any country on the subject. If I thought every member of your Society would procure a cop3’’ of that Essay, and peruse it carefully, I might close my letter here, by earnestly recommending them to do so. It is with the hope of inducing some of them to do it, as well as to testify my respect for them, by responding to their inquiry, that I proceed. Marl, as correctly defined by Mr. Rufiin, and now known in this country, is calcareous earth: that is, earth containing lime. The lime found in it is united for the most part with carbonic acid, and is therefore called carbonate of lime. It sometimes contains lime in othei combinations, as sulphate and phosphate oflirae. Azote, has been found in marl also, and magnesia is not uncommon. Besides these it contains sand and clay in various proportions, and occasionally a green sand highly prized as a manure on ac- count of itb being rich in potash. All of these constituents are valuable to the farmer. But it is the quantity of carbon.ate of lime which gives its character to Marl, and by which it is estimated when it is called rich or poor. Nothing is more deceptive in appearance, and the most experienced are liable to mistakes, if they attempt to estimate its value by the eye, and without employing the proper chemical test. There is a rock found in abundance in your county, and which is of great value for other purposes, that has deceived many. It seems to be a mass ol shells ; but the fact is, they are on- ly effigies, or casts from which every particle of lime has been long since washed away, and sand deposited in its place. There is also a fine, soapy earth, usually of a pale ash colour, though sometimes darker, that many have re- garded as very rich marl. This is what was formerly, and by foreign writers is still, denom- inated clay marl. It seldom contains muchlime, and is generally wholly destitute ol it even when found in marl beds. This soapy feeling is a very uncertain indication of lime. Where it is observed in marl, it is usually owing to some- thing else, chiefly to magnesia or alumina. A marl is found whiter and harder than the earth to which I refer, but of the 'same larnellaled structure and a somewhat soapy touch, that is exceedingly rich in lime, — that at Shell Bluff containing 90 fnlJ per cent, of the carbonate, ft yields readily to the knife, crumbles when exposed to a severe freeze, and is altogether the most valuable marl we have. Unfortunate- ly, it is not met with in large quantities in our formation. In our mar! beds immense quanti- ties oi large shells are generally found. Inex- perienced marlers have been known to spread these on their land. But they are ol little or no value, unless burned or crushed. They were deposited where they are found before the hu- man race inhabited the earth, and being for the most part sound yet, will yley little or no lime to the soil in ourday. Eventhe masses of much smaller, conglomerated shells, though very rich in lime, are not among the most valuable marls, unless broken up and pulverised to a considera- ble extent. There is a marl abounding with us, which to the naked eye seems to be mere sand, that is much more valuable, though it does not i contain two-thirds of the quantity of carbonate of ’ lime; it mixes at once with the soil and exerts its full influence in a comparatively short peri- od. The most valuablemarl,practica!!yspeak- ing, that is found in any quantity at Shell Bluff — and will be found in your marl-beds, for the formation is the same — is composed of very fine shells, scarcely discernable, which are loosely cemented together and readily fall apart. It is of different colors; mostly^ -white, sometime.s purplish, yellow, or light brown. The most a- bundant marl found in our formation is hard and compact, of a grey color, containing 50 to 60 per cent, of lime, crumbles on exposure to the seasons and in handling. But, as! have said, the value ot marl cannot be estimated by its appearance. Between eart.i which contains 75 per ct. of carbonate of lime, and that containing 20 per ct , or even none at all the most experienced ai’e far oftener than other- wise unable to distinguish without using the proper tests. These are so readily to be pro- cured, and in fad the analysis of marl, so far as to ascertain the qur.ntity of carbonate ot lime, is so very simple an operation, that the marler she uld leave nothing to conjecture on this important point. Earth containing any notable proportion of carbonate of lime, will effervesce if thrown into vinegar or almost any acid. But the best test is muriatic acid : a sin- gle drop ot it will produce immediate efferves- cence whenever there is carbonate of lime. To discover the precise quantity of carbonate of lime in any marl, it is only necessary 1 1 have this acid, a pair of common apotheca- ries’scales with weights, and a wide mouthed vial. Dry the marl thoroughly on a shovel over the fire, and pound in a mortal, to a fine powder. Fill the vial about one-third with the muriatic acid diluted with two parts of wa- ter to one of acid, and. balance it exactly in the scales, with weights o* any kind. Then add, very slowlyq 100 grains of the powder previous- ly weighed, taking care not to make it effer- vesce so rapidly as to throw any of it out ol the vial. When the effervescence has completely ceased, blow gently into the mouth of the vial, with a common bellows, to expel any of the carbonic acid gas which may have remained in it in consequence of its being heavier than the atmospheric air. Weights to the amount of 100 grains must now be put in the opposite scale to balance the 100 grains of powdered marl put into the vial. It will be found that in consequence of the escape of carbonic acid in a gaseous form, the scale with the vial will rise: put weights into it then until the scales are once more exactly balanced—the number of grains put in the scale with the vial will of course indicate the weight of the carbonic acid that has escaped. Now, carbonateof lime con- tains in 100 parts very nearly 56 parts of lime and 41 of carb. acid. It then 44 grains have escaped in your analysis, the specimen is pure carbonate of lime. If only 2? grains have es- caped, then it contains but 50 per cent, of car- bonate of lime. And so in proportion to any quantity of carbonic acid which may have been expelled. In practice, it will be found most convenient to use 50 grains of the powdered marl. A very few trials will enable the most inexperienced farmer to ascertain in half an hour with sufficient precision, the value of his marl. That value depending mainly, as stated, OH the quantity of carbonate of lime it contains. The value of lime for agricultural purposes, 82 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. is not only established by the experience of ail ages, and so far as we know, of all countries, but must be obvious, when it is known that chemical analysis has detected it as a consti- tuent ©f every vegetable that grows on the sur- face of the earth. It is also the chief element of the bones of every animal— even of those that feed on grass only. It is therefore not only beneficial^ but indispensable to the growth of all kinds of vegetation. The All-Bountiful Creator has diffused it over the whole globe, as extensively as almost any known substance. But like all His gilts, it has been, for wise and good purposes, no doubt, unequally distributed. That it is placed, in some form and to some ex- tent, within the reach of all plants, is certain, since they all contain it. And a late scientific writer on Agricultural Chemistry in our coun- try, has attempted to prove that all — even the poorest soils, possess an ample supply of it to furnish heavy crops of vegetation for countless years to come. If this were true, it would be worse than useless to expend labor in spread- ing it over our lands; millions of farmers be- sides myself have acted very foolishly, and you would do well to think no more of marling. But this is plainly not the case. There are a great many soils in which the chemical tests now known, have failed to find a trace of it. Such is the fact with regard, I believe, to all the land 1 cultivate. Such, I will venture to say, it is with regard to most, if not all of the lands in your county ; though 1 am aware you have had pretended analyses made, which exhioited large proportions of lime. The reasoning of the writer alluded to : All soils are formed by the disintegration and crumbling of rocks. Most rocks contain lime, especially those which disintegrate most readily and form soils. He calculates the amount of lime in the quantum of rock necessary to create a soil of a certain depth, and thence infers that there is so much lime in the land. There is no doubt that the rocks from which your soil and mine were formed, contained lime to the amount estima- ted. But it is equally certain that these rocks, in their transition from one state to another, were subjected for an indefinite period to the action of water. I am speaking particularly of our immediate section of country. The ocean once undoubtedly covered it as high up as the falls of our rivers and the belt of sand- hills which runs through the middle districts of South Carolina and Georgia, and held it as per- manent domain. During this period, our marl beds were deposited— possibly also our present surface of earth. But whether that be so or not, and whether the surface we now cultivar<> belongs to the Eocene formation, as these marl deposits are supposed to do, or to the Post Plio- cene, or, as is most probable, to the Diluvial, it is evident, from the irregular inter-stratification of different kinds of earth, and the rounded pebbles on and in it, to a considerable depth, which could have been rounded only by the ac- tion of water, that the whole of it, like the sand and clay now constantly brought down our streams, has been atsome remote period, “driit- ed from a higher region, and deposited by water here. The lime in the rocks being soluble un- der eircumsiauces which must have attended the “drift,” was retained and carried away in th« currents. Our marl beds were probably de- posited at a much earlier geological era, and have no connection with the soil on our present surface, but were upheaved or denuded in some of those great convulsions to which our globe has been every where subjected. That our lands are for the most part destitute of lime is certain. That it has been taken from them in this way, is more than probable. The masses of silieified shells to which I have alluded, and which are so abundant in yourcounty, prove that the lime may be entirely carried off by water. But if there is no lime in the soil, from what source do the growing plants derive this indis- per.sible constituent may be well asked? It has been often asked. Nature has not revealed, and science has as yet-failed to discover an an- swer satisfactory to all. Whether, as is conjec- tured by some, the unknown vital action of the plant is sufficiently powerful and comprehen- sive to create the requisite modicum — or wheth- er it can, as others suppose, by some galvanic agency, extract it from sources where its exis tence has not yet been delected by chemical re- agents, is yet a mystery. But this much expe- rience has established and science demonstra- ted, that where lime cannot be found in fair pro- portions in a soil, the health and vigour ol the plants growing on it can always be materially improved by a judicious application of it. And to this conclusion common sense, without ex- perience or science, would lead every one who was aware that it is invariably an elerrtent in all vegetable matter. The precise rationale of the action of lime on the soil, and the manner in which it benefits vegetation, has never been fully and minutely explained. Nature still holds many of the se- crets of her . laboratory undisclosed. Many, and many of the roost important details of her won- derful processes of composition and decomposi- tion and of the vast play of her chemical affini- ties, yet await the persevering investigation and penetrating thought of man. I will endeavor to lay before you, succinctly, what is known or rationally conjectuied in regard to the opera- tions and effects of lime, so far as may be mate- rial to the present purpose. It is applied to land, either directly or mixed, in compost heaps, and carried out in manure. But lor the additional labor the latter would al- ways be the best method. Where it is used in large quantities, it is much cheaper to spread it at once upon the land, and apply manure, &c,, afterwards, as circumstances may dictate or permit. It is sometimes put on land in the'state in which it comes from the kiln, that is as quick or caustic lime. Sometimes it is first slaked in water, when it becomes a hydrate of lime. — Most commonly it is slaked by mere exposure to the atmosphere, when it assumes the lorm of carbonate or mild lime, that is, lime combined with carbonic acid, which it extracts from the air in the proportions I have already stated. It i.s in this form that it is found most abundantly in nature. Sulphate and phosphate of lime are also found, but quick-lime never. The lime in shells, marble, limestone, marl, &c. is usually all of it the carbonate. Its action, however, in the long run, is always the same, whether ap- plied in the mild or caustic state, being depen- dent on its intrinsic properties as lime. — When caustic, it at first rapidly decomposes whatever of vegetable fibre or animal matter it comes in contact with. But its caustic quality is soon exhausted, or rather it soon becomes changed itself by the action of the substances it meets with, and thus loses its causticity. On lands con'aining a great excess of vegetable matter, such as peat and rich bog, and where rapid decomposition is desirable, quick-lime is the best lorm of application, if equally cheap, as it saves time, and fenders the soil produc- tive much sooner than the carbonate will do it. Although lime is found most commonly com- bined with carbonic acid, the fact is owing more to the abundance of that acid which exists in the atmosphere, in water, and is continually a- rising irom vegetable decay, than because it has any affinity for carbonic over oth r acids. On the contrary, it will yield it up and combine in preference with almost any other. Not only the strong mineral, but most vegetable acids, even vinegar, as I have before mentioned, will drive it off. The effervescence which takes place whenearb.of lime is thrown into them, is caused by the carb. acid escaping in the form of gas. — From this great affinity of lime for all acids re- sultsoneof its primary and most important effects in soils. Acids are antiseptic and arrest spon- taneous decay. Lime combines with them wherever it finds them free from other combina- tions, and neutralizes their injurious effect.— Hence, on lands that we call sour — and on many that are really sour without our knowledge o( the fact — all land covered with broom sedge for example — itisof inestimable value. Itdestroy.« the sourness, and thereby' promotes the decay ol whatever matter may have been locked up by acids, which is calculated to nourish useful vegetation. From this quality of lime, ii isde- mominated an Alkaline Earth— alkali being the reverse and antagonist ol acid. Whenever an alkali and acid meet, they neutralize one anoiher in certain proportions, and form whai is called a salt. For instance, our common salt is muri- atic acid, and the alkali soda. So carbonate of lime is in fact itself a salt. These salts, and especially those of which lime is a component part, are of the highest va- lue in agriculture. Some of them are soluble in water, and these are the most valuable. It is in fact only when they are thus dissolved that they afford any diiect nourishment to growing plants which can imbibe nothing by their roots, hut watery solutions, and are r coast, south of Long Island, little advantage has been derived from it. Two probable causes have been assigned lor this; the influence of sea air, which has not been sat- isfactorily explained, and the probability that the lands in the regions mentioned have derived a sufficiency of gypsum already from the sul- phuraie ol iron, or other sources. Very little is required lor plants; one perk per acre applied to the moistened seed will probably have as much effect, for one year at least, as any other quantity. In the last dry season it had, on my land, double the effect of a bushel sown broad- cast. Five to ten bushels are sometimes applied. Phosphate of lime is even more esteemed for a manure than the Sulphate. It is sometimes called the “Earth of Bones,” as bones contain over 50 per cent, of this salt. Being less abun- dant than sulphate of lime, it is much more cost- ly. Bones are transported across the Atlantic to England, to be used as manure. Several hun- dred vessels are now engagedsolely in transport- ing bones Irom various partsof the world to Eng- land. This phosphate is also an essential con- stituent of plants, though rarely to be detected in soils. But phosphoric acid, like sulphuric, a- rises from vegetable decomposition, from phos- phu ret ot silicon, and perhaps from other sources, fl lime be present in the soil to fix it, not on!)'' is the vital action of the plant relieved from pro- ducing it, but much is probably saved that would 84 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. Otherwise be lost. The ash of cotton seed contains considerably more of this acid than bones do, and hence the immense value ol this seed as a manure. But its effects are proverb- ially transient. With lime in the soil sufficient- ly abundant to fix the phosphoric acid, cotton ■eed would be a manure almost as permanent as bones. {Concluded in our next.] From the Southern Planter. GUllVEA GRASS,— CORN, &c. Mr. Editor: — For the roots ot Guinea grass obtainedfrom the lamented Garnett, and by your kindness sent me to Hillsborough two years ago, accept now my cordial thanks. From the result ot an experiment, made under very unfavorable circumstances, I am convinced that the Guinea grass will supply the important desideratum for which I was so anxious to procure it. I find the product very great. On rich upland, even in so unpropitious a season as the past summer, it will bear cutting three times, at from tour to five feet high ; and though coarse, it is very palata- ble both to cows and horses when cut or wilted, and makes no despicable hay. The grand desi- deratum was, something to supply the only de- lect of Lucerne for soil-feeding, viz., its failure in hot and dry July and August. Farming is altogether a subordinate business with me. Myself and assistant devote ourselves to the “delightful task” of rearing the tender thought, and “ teaching the young idea how to shoot,” a task in which I find great pleasure and profit. Still having been trained as well to ag- ricultural as scholastic labor, I leel much inter- est in the farmer’s pursuits, and am ambitious of making my own bread and meat. Farming is certainly a profitable business as subsidiary to professional pursuits, when rationally condu:- isa on a. suitable scale. An active, industrious, and honest, sensible young man, son ot one of my neighbors, leads, does not drive, but leads tour or five negro men, tor^lSO per annum. I project and he executes. I am more the school master and less the farmer in the country than I was in town. Then having only eleven acres to operate on, and these immediately under my own eye, I needed no steward, but directed, and in good degree superintended every operation myselt. Here a weekly stroll over the fields on Saturdays, enables me to chalk out the next week’s labor for ray steward. Bye-the-bye, I gathered in 1843, from two measured acres, sixty barrels in the ear, or thir- ty when shelled, of good sound bread corn, alter no considerable abstractions made by feathered and unfeathered bipeds. With favorable sea- sons I am convinced the product would have been a third larger. I am satisfied that the soil and climate of Orange county, in the good old North Slate, are capable of yielding one hundred bushels of Indian corn per acre. 1 planted four feet by two, in drills opened by a heavy two horse plow, followed by a subsoil plow, and manured in the drill from the stable and cow yard; one half one stalk; the other two stalks in the hill. Product about equal, but the one stalk halt the best corn. The two stalk half, but for a drought at a critical juncture of silk- ing would have out-yielded the other considera- bly. Used first the Teague bull tongue and hoe when the corn was three inches high, afterwards the cultivator was run, leaving the ground lev- el, and pulling out the weeds in the row by hand. The same two acres yielded the next year nearly sixty bushels of Cape wheat, weigh- ing 64 pounds to the bushel, which was cut not green, but ripe, in the month of May. The seed was obtained from Hon. E. Pettigrew, of Tyrrell county, one of the most enterprising, successful and useful citizen farmers. After taking off the wheat I planted corn for my hogs in the fall. The stand was very bad; and see- ing it would mature I suffered it to do so, and gathered fifty bushels of shelled corn from the two acres— species known by the name of Collin’s corn, and much valued in the eastern part of this State. W. J. Bingham. Big Oal's, Orange CO,. N. C., Nov. 15, lF4n. Agricultural Jltcetinga. PKOCEEBINGS OF THE S. C. STATE AGRICUETURAE SOCIETY. Columbia, Monday, Nov. 24, 1845, The State Agricultural Society held its pre- liminary meeting this evening, at 7 o’clock. The President called the meeting to order. The members and delegates having enrolled themselves, the Society then proceeded to regu- lar business, Hon. John B. O’Neall offered the following resolution: Resolved, That a committee of five, of whom the President shall be Chairman, be raised, for the purpose of ascertaining the quantity of corn necessary to supply the wants of the people of" the State, the minimum prices at which it can be obtained in Charleston, Hamburg, Colum- bia and Camden, and the time when it can be most conveniently obtained. Agreed to, and the following were the com- mittee appointed : F. B. Higgins, Newberry ; James A, Black, York; Wm. J. Allslon, Fair- field; B, F. Perry, Greenville, It was then moved that an appropriation be asked from the Legislature, for the publication of the proceedings of this Society, the address- es, reports and essays which the Society may select for publication, and also, for such prizes as may be annually awarded. Agreed to, and the following appointed as the committee to petition: Hon. J. B. O’Neall, Dr. Thomas Legare, J. H, Means, Jas. Rlietl, J. C. Chesnin. The Secretary then stated, that it was proper to remark, as one of the executive committee, that the committees could make no awards for anything but stock — the means of the Society not being sufficient. The following are the committees appointed by the President : On Domestic Fabrics. — Dr. R. W. Gibbes, Richland; J. C. Chesnut, Kershaw; John Riv- ers, St. Andrews; J. Y. Mills, Chester; P. E. Ware, Greenville. On Corn. — Edward G. Palmer, Fajrfield; J. M, Felder, Orangeburgh; P. S. Brooks, Edge- field; Wra. Summer, Newberry; Jas. Gregg, Richland. On Rice. — R. F. W. Allston, Prince George; B. F. Dunkin,All Saints; Jas. S. Rhett, Christ Church. On Short, Staph Colton. — Wm. J. Allston, Fairfield; J. P. Neel, Newberry; L. A. Beck- ham, Chester, On Long Staple Collon. — W. M. Murray, St. Johns; John Rivers, St. Andrews; J. Fickling, St. Lukes. On Small Grain. — J. B. O’Neall, Newberry, P. E. Dunkin, Greenville; Joel Smith, Abbe- ville. On Marl.— Z. H. Hammond, Barn well ; W. T. Ellerbe, Pedee; Dr. P, Palmer, St. John's, Berkley. On Potatoes.— ?L. G. Summer, Richland; Dr. Fickling, St. Lukes; J. H. Means, Fairfield. The follow’ing communications were read by the President: Greenville C. H., Nov. 17, 1845. To the Hon. W. B. Seahrook, President oj the Ag. So. of the State of S G : Inasmuch as the undersigned has, by unfor- seen contingencies, been denied the pleasure of attending the meeting of the Society, he begs most respectfully to offer through you the fol- lowing resolutions for the consideration of the Society. 1. Resolved, That, hereafter, all competitors for the premiums offered by this Society fur live stock, shall, in addition to the age and ped- igree of the animal so offered, report the gene- ral management of the animal, manner ol feed- ing, articles used, &c. &c., with such other re- marks pertaining to that kind of stock as the applicant may see fit to offer, and the premium shall be aw'arded to the competitor who shall offer the animal and report, which, taken toge- ther, are best calculated to promote the objects of this Society. 2. Resolved, That hereafter, all competitors for the premiums offered by this Society, for the best crops, shall, in addition to the amount of the crop for that year, report as near as he can, the crop of the previous year, the condition of the land, manner of improving, preparing land for planting, cultivation of the crop offered for competition, and such other remarks per- taining to the improvement of land and the cul- ture of that particular crop, as he may think fit; and the premiums shall be awarded to the competitor, whose crop and report, taken toge- ther, are best calculated to promote the objects of this Society. The importance of adopting the above reso- lution, is, to H e undersigned, obvious ; but as others may not think so, on first presentation, a few words of explanation will be offered. The economy of raising fine animals, and impro\ ing land, are matters as interesting to this Society as any others. One class or varie- ty of domestic animals may suit the particular circumstances of one individual or one neigh- borhood, better than any other. Different soils and localities require different means lor their increase of fertility. The adoption of the re- solution offered would, no doubt, biing out a large number of facts, well calculated to eluci- date both these classes of subjects, and specu- lations that would lead to further uselul investi- gations and experiments. Gompetitors would take more notice ol what they did, and keep, more accounts, so that the expense and profit of each agricultural operation would be better known. This is something much needed. In this way, a large amount of desirable infor- mation could be collected by the Society, and diffused among the farmers of the Stale. Premiums could not then be awarded to any one, who by accident, had a large crop, cr a fine animal, but be bestowed, as they ought to be, on those persons who had, by their in- dustry, talent and capital, dtrae most to promote the great and gojd cause. The contest for pre- miums wouKi not be merely who should have the fattest animal, or the largest crop, but turn on the important principle ol who could accom' plish most at least expense. A spirited competition, conducted on these principles, would, in the estimation of the un- dersigned, increase vastly the benefits the farm- ing community have received from the plan heretofore adopted. With a feeling of deep interest in the welfare and success of the Society, I am, most respecHully, A. B. Crook. To the St o.te Agricultural Society of So. Ca., in the United States of America : — The Prussian Imperial Economical Society, established in St. Petersburg, in the year 1765, having for its ob- ject the improvement of different branches of Rural Economy and National Industry, desire to enter into correspondence with your hono- rable Society, for mutual e.xchange ol different experiments, observations and discoveries, in order to promote the National welfare ol both countries. The Almighty having blessed the United States and Rus-sia with immense tracts of fertile lands, has pointed out to us that the principal occupations of both countries should consist in rural pursuits. Therefore, we feel real sympathy towards your great nation — and the more so, because our Society has the honor of counting am jngst Us active and useful mem- bers, one of your distinguished citizens, the Hon. Mr. Todd, the representative of your country in Russia. The Russian Economical Society has, for a long time, expressed the wish of communicat- ing with the Agricultural Societies in other countries; but as the transactions ot our Socie- ty are published in the Russian language, which is very little known abroad, the Society commenced publishing extracts of the annual reports and of the transactions in the German language, which is generally understood in ci- THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 85 vilized countries. The Society conceiving that these publications will be the means of commu- nications between the two countries, has, there- fore, charsed me as its perpetual Secretary, to forward to you a copy of our transactions, pub- lished in German. I take this opportunity to add, that 1 am very happy to be the_organ of expressing the senti- ments of our Society towards your enlightened nation. Alexander Djunkooskt, Perpetual Secretarj of the Russian Economical Soci- ety, Actual Counsellor of State of H. 1. M., the Em- peror of Russia. si. Petersburg^ Russia, Aug. 30, 1845. Tuesday, November 25, 1845. The Society met at 7 o’clock this evening. The President having organized the meeting, several communications were read from indi- viduals contending for premiums. Hon. A. P. Butler moved, That the next Annual Fair be held at old 96, in the Abbeville District, Cambridge; which was agreed to, and the 3d Wednesday in July appointed. On motion of the Hon. J. B. O’Neall, R. F. W. Allston was appointed to deliver the ad- dress at the Cambridge meeting. It was then moved, that the sum of one dol- lar be forthwith contributed by each member, for the purpose of providing premiums for the domestic fabrics. Agreed to. On motion of Mr. J. Allston, a committee of five was appointed to nominate officers of this Society tor the ensuing year, and that the com- mittee report on Thursday evening. The following were appointed: W. J. All- ston, A G. Summer, J. C, Chesnut, jr., F. B. Higgins, R. F. W. Allston, Col. M’Carthy then moved, that the ladies be invited to seats on the floor of the Hall, on Thursday night, the 27Lh inst., to hear the ad- dress of the Hon. Joel R. Poinsett. Agreed to. The following report from the Chairman of the Committee on Rice, R. F, W. Allston, was read: To the Ag/icultural Society of So. Carolina. : The Committee, to which was assigned the duly to report on Rice, have to regret that they have not been furnished as they desired, with the results of the experiment in the culture of this grain, which was simply mentioned the last year, viz: the planting on beds or pea-ridg- es, at some three feet distant from each other. This method they considered as peculiarly ap- plicable to inland plantations, which are liable to be sobbed by heavy rains; and the soils of which are compact, admitting the free use of the plow; and by this implement the beds may be thrown up and almost completed. They deem it applicable also to very old lands, situa- ted high up the rivers in the tide uater region, which are generally too compact in texture, and frequently when the rivers are lull and swollen by rains in the interior, sobbed in con- sequence of insufficient draining. These lands, worn and sunken by incessant cultivation, are almost universally polluted with “Goose Grass,” or “ Blanket Grass,” as it is often call ed, which it bas been often found is a good deal j enfeebled by being bedded in with the stubble of the preceding year. The undersigned, last year, planted a portion (lower than the remainderj of two irregular fields in this way, throwing up with the hoe, beds, at the distance of twenty-eight inches from each other, and sowing the grain broadcast on the top of the bed, at the rate of 1 bushel of seed per acre. The result of this imperfect at- tempt to equalize and level the surface of an irregular field, although the product differed but slightly from that of the year before, is, on the whole, considered satisfactory. One measured acre, on which was sown one bushel of grain, yielded, on the product being thrashed, thirty-seven and a halt bushels of sheaf Rice, w'hich is equivalent to near forty bushels per acre. The whole field produced at the rate of 50 bushels per acre ; the remainder of the field (not in beds,) being trenched at the distance of 14 inches, from row to row, and planted at the rate of Sj bushels of seed to the acre. The year preceding, the same field produced a little over 48 bushels per acre, and the portion in question did not produce more than 36 bu- shels per acre. The last was an uncommonly dry season; the tides in the early portion of it being short. The same method will be pursued on the same land next year. It is known how universal was the drought last season throughout the State. The tide lands, on which Rice is cultivated, were affect- ed higher up the River Waccamaw and Pee- dee, than was ever known bj' the oldest resident on them. On the former, the salt water affect- ed the crops, either in quantity and quality, as far up as Butler’s Island ; on the latter, as far j or high up as the plantation of Chancellor Dunkin, or a little below Schooner Creek. Cooper River, Sampit, Pon Pon, Combahee, Black River and As.hepoo, were affected in even a greater degree. In consequence of the unprecedented droughts, | the effects of which are thus indicated, it is es- timated that one-fourth of the lands planted in Rice, viz: about 22,000 acres will prove to have been unproductive or nearly so. The crop of 1843-4, was a little short of 130,- 000 barrels — 1844-5, was about 117,000 barrels, j The crop of 1845-6, will be about 100,000 bar- i rels. It has been estimated at even less than i this. It is confidently believed the crop will j not exceed the estimates herein made. Respectfully submitted, j R. F. W. Allston, Chairman. On motion, the above report was submitted ! to the Executive Committee. I The Society, on motion of Gen. Means, ad- j journed till half past 7 o’clock, on Thursday evening. J. B. Davis, Rec’g Secretary. Thursday Evening, Nov. 27. The Society convened as appointed on the previous evening. The President called for the Reports. The committee appointed to ascertain the amount of provisions wanted in the State, re- ported. The Executive Committee, to whom was re- ferred a letter from A. Djunkoosky, Secretary to the Russian Economical Society; communi- cation from E. Ruffin, on Marl, ana the Report 01 the Committee on Rice, respectfully report the following resolutions for the adoption of this Society : Pccsolved, That the Corresponding Secretary, be requested to present to the Russian Econo- mical Society, the thanks of this body, for the two volumes of translations presented them, and that he forward to that Society, through the Hon. Alexander Djunkoosky, perpetual Secre- tary 01 the same, so much of our proceedings, from the organization of the Society, as may be useful or interesting to the Russian Society. Resolved, That the Corresponding Secretary be also requested to tender to Mr. Ruffin the thanks of this body, for his valuable commu- nication, and that the same with the report of the Committee on Rice, be published in the South Carolinian and Temperance Advocate. Agreed to. I The Committee to whom was referred there- I solution asking an appropriation from the Le- I gislature, for the printing of the proceedings of j this Society, from its organization, with the ad- i dresses, reports, &c., thereof, as well as for the ! prizes that may be awarded at the annual meet- ings, report that they have considered the same, and would state, that it appears to them ex- tremely desirable both for our own sake and that of the people in general, that the docu- ments alluded to, should be preserved. It is al- so of great consequence, that we should be able to meet the kind offering annually made to us, by the Agricultural Societies, of their proceed- ings, by presenting to them our own. To do this we have no funds; and hence we must ask the aid of the Legislature. So, too, at this meet- ing, premiums are to be offered on domestic fa- brics, and on crops. The want of means, may hereafter prevent this, unless the Legislature will make a small appropriation. Believing that these objects are essential to the agricultu- ral interests ol the State, and that the Legisla- ture can do nothing more acceptable to their constituents than to contribute to them, by mak« ing such anappropriation as that contemplated, your committee recommend that the President be requested to address the Legislature by letter er memorial, asking an appropriation of five hundred dollars for the objects pointed out. John Belton O’Neall, Chairman. The above report was sustained by the chair- man and Mr. Rhett, and opposed by Major Felder, but agreed to. Mr. James Rhett introduced the following re- solutions: Whereas, from the accounts rendered by Capt. Charles Wilkes of the United States Ex- ploring Expedition, it appears there are eight kinds of Rice, cultivated at Manilla, in the Phi- lipine Islands— forming the chief articles of food and profit to the inhabitants— the different varieties being distinguished by the size and shape of the grain; three belonging to the low lands and five to the high land culture — and as it is important that they be procured for the pur- pose of testing their value, as staples in this State ; Resolved, That the chairman of the com- mittee on Rice, be authorized and requested to apply to the proper authorities at Washington, in the name of ihe State Agricultural Society of South Carolina, to procure for us, from these Islands, the seeds of the various kinds of Rice, above referred to, so soon as the same can be effectively done. Resolved, That the members of Congress from this State, be requested to lend their aid in p.''omoting the objects of this application. Agreed to. Mr. Wm, Summer moved, That this Socie- ty memorialize the Legislature upon the pro- priety of laying a ta.x on dogs, for the purpose ol protecting the sheep growing interest in South Carolina. Wm. Summer, Wm. J. Mur- ray and W. J. Allston, were appointed to carry out this resolution. The time now arriving, the Hon, Joel R, Poinsett, was called on to deliver the Anniver- sary Address, which he did to the great delight of a numerous and attentive audience. At the conclusion, it was unanimously resolved, on motion ol Mr, Rhett, that the thanks of the So- ciety be tendered to the Hon, Mr. Poinsett, and that his address be published. The committee appointed to nominate offi- cers, reported the following for the ensuing year : Hon. Whitemarsh B, Seabrook, Pres’t. Chancellor B. F. Dunkin, 1st Vice Pres’t, Chancellor Harper, 2d “ “ Hon. J. B. O’Neall, 3d “ “ Hon. A. P. Butler, 4th “ “ Col. R. F. W. Allston, 5th “ “ Hon.J. M. Felder, 6th “ “ Dr. R. W. Gibbes, Corresponding Sec’y, Dr. J. B. Davis, Recording Secretary. Hon. J. C. Calhoun, Anniversary Orator: which report was unanimously agreed to. The President returned his thanks, and at considerable length, congratulated the Society upon its success, and detailed the interest to re- sult from the efforts ol this meeting, &c. li was moved and agreed to, that the Execu- tive Committee invite delegate.s from other State Agricultural Societies, to attend the next meeting ol this Society. The Secretary called the attention of the So- ciety to an omission, to wit: that three members were to be appointed by the President, as form- ing with the officers, the Executive Committee, and A, G. Summer, Wm. J, Allston, and Wade Hampton, were appointed. The Secretary then moved that the Execu- tive Committee, be required to investigate the pecuniary condition of the Society, and report in full at the summer meeting. Agreed to. 86 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. The committee on Domestic Fabrics, report to the Society, that a number of beautiful and useful specimens of sillr, cotton and worsted ar- ticles, have been submitted to their examina- tion, among which they would specify the fol- lowing : By Mrs. and Miss Galliard of Pendleton, a piece of woollen and cotton goods, a coverlet of wool and cotton, and several specimens of vest- ings. By Col. J. Martin of Pendleton, a fine fur hat, of neat and durable appearance. By Mrs. Frances A. Dickson, of Abbeville, a fine piece of worsted cloth. By Mrs. Spear of Abbeville, two pieces of colored cotton cloth, suitable for ladles’ dresses, and a specimen of worsted. By Mrs. Murph}^ (68 years of age,) of Union, two large worsted shawls. By Miss Plamilton of Pendleton, a vest pat- tern. By Miss M. Lee of Anderson, a specimen of si Ik for ladies’ dresses. By Miss Mary Ann Evans, of Charleston District, two large silk shawls, three small silk shawls, one pair of silk gloves, two pair of silk mits, one pairof half hose, 100 skeins of sew- ing silk, and a silk purse. By Mrs. Elizabeth Dantzler of Charleston District, a very handsome white silk shawl. By the Misses Fleming of Spartanburg, a fine silk banner. By MissE. J. Harkness of Anderson, a pat- tern of colored cotton for ladies’ dresses. By Mrs. Perry of Gieenville, a pair of hand- some worked slippers. The Committee respectfully recommend to the Society, the following ladies as entitled to premiums, for their fabrics, and regret that the finances of the Society, will not allow of a more extensive award. The various speci- mens of the skill and industry of our fair coun- try-women, are deserving of the high respect and thanks of the Society : To Miss Evans, for her several articles of silk, a cup, valued at S7. To Miss Galliard of Pendleton, for her vest- ing, a cup, $3, To Mrs. Murphy of Union, tor her shawls, S3. Mrs. E. Dantzler of Charleston District, fora beautiful specimen ol a silk shawl, a cup, $3. To the Misses Fleming, for the silk banner, a cup, $4. Robert W. Giebes, Chairman. The following was read by W. Gilmore Simms: The three specimens of domestic wine, here- with submitted to the Slate Agrucultural Socie- ty of South Carolina, was made by Mrs. R. C. Roberts, of Barnwell District, and belongs to three several vintages, as labelled. J t is pro- duced from the grape called the Scuppernong, according to a recipe lound in the periodical called the “ Silk Grower.” A fourth specimen herewith submitted, is made from the native wild grape, of the kind so common with us in the middle Districts. It is of a darker colour than the other specimen. A single bottle of sweet oil, drawn from the rich seed of the Bene, a native and well known plant, is also submitted. This plant will grow in our poorest soils, and is well worthy of our cultivation. Four bush- els of seed are found to yield about three gal- lons of oil. The sample submitted is now twelve months old and will be found to retain all its original sweetness. The process for extracting the oil from the grain, is a very simple one. The seeds were crushed in a common mortar, th^'n thrown into boiling water — after being sufficiently boiled the oil was skimmed off, iransfened to another vessel, and put to simmer upon the fire, until every particle of water had evaporated. It was then bottled, suffered to settle, and was subse- quently clarified by rebotiling and by age. The experiment was worth making by every familv, who, by this easy method, may obtain a sufficiency for borne consumption, of an oil which is really preferable to the oil of olives. The above was accompanied by a very en- tertaining address from Mr. Simms, and after lariher complimentary addresses, in honor ol Mrs. Roberts and ladies generally, the speci- mens w'ere handed around to the ladies and gen- tlemen, and an award made to Mrs. Roberts, of a silver cup, valued at ten dollars. With this, the Society adjourned to nreetbya subsequent alteration of the appointment ol Tuesday evening, at Aiken, on the 3d Wednes- day in July — instead of Cambridge. James B. Davis, Secretary. Agricultural Society of Chatham, Bryan and Effingham Counties. An adjourned Meeting of the Anniversary of the Agricultural Society for the counties of Catbam, Bryan, and Effingham, w as held at the Court House in Savannah on the 2d April last, at which, a good number ot members were pre- sent. The President being absent, John Lewis, the 1st Vice-President took the Chair, and in the absence of the Recording Secretary, George J. Kollock, acted as Secretary,. The minutes of the last meeting were read and confirmed ; alter which, the reports of the various committees w?ere called lor in order. The Chairman of the Cummit-tee on Stock responded in a report of some length, in which it w’as contended, that there was an utter want of system in the breeding and management of stock amongst us: that we have a good stock of cattle to build upon, being hardy and acclima- ted; but that the custom of keeping so large a number prevents the farmer from attending to their food and comfort, and destroys more than one half their value both to the tarm and ihe farmer; and the fact of the stock being allow'ed to roam at large, (indeed by their numbers,) for- bids the possibility ol keeping a pure breed. — The possibility ol supplying the market at Sa- vannah to some extent, was touched upon. The report closed by strongly recommending peri- odical exhibitions of stock, as a means of im- provement, by creating emulation amongst the breeders, and bringing the subject more lully under view. Such of the other Committees as were pres- ent, stated that owing to unavoidable circum- stances, they were unprepared to report, but it W’as hoped they WDO Id -not have to encounter similar difficulties in future. A letter was presented by S. C. House, Esq., received from L. Bradish, Esq., of New Tork, on the subject of application of electricity to ag- riculture, w’hich was ordered to be filed. A letter was also received from Joseph M Shellman, Esq., accompanied by a present to the Society of a small bag c t seed, being a new kind ot pea, called the “Oregon, or Rocky Mountain Pea,” and said to be very prolific, af- fording a very nutritious food lor stock of all kinds, in the leaves and stalks, as well as in the fruit, without the deleterious qualities ol the common pea. j The Plant is herbaceous and not climbing as other peas, resembling somewhat the CoUon plant, and it is stated that if sov/n early in the spring, it may be cut constantly during the sum- mer as food for cows, &c., and one peculiarity w'hich gives it a preference over the common pea for fodder, is, that when cut and cured, it does not drop its leaves. The pods should be i gathered as soon as they turn black, as they | burst and scatter their contents upon the ground if suffieredto remain too longo Milch cows led on this food yield rich milk in great abundance, and it is fine lor poultry. This present was received with manifesta- tions of pleasure, and the thanks of ihe Society were voted to Mr. Shellman, and ihe Secretary requested to furnish him with a copy of the reso- lution. _ A package of seeds, containing different va- rieties of wheat, tobacco, &c., was also received through the hands of the Corresponding Secre- tary, from the President, the Hon. J. M. Ber- rien, obtained by him from the Patent Office. — On motion, the thanks of the Society w ere voted to our President lor the valuable seed sent. It was also Resolved, That the Board of Man- agers be authorised to take into consideration the propriety of oflering premiums for the pur- pose of promoting emulation in the various branches of Agriculture, and if deemed advisa- ble, to publish the same. Also Resolved, That the Editors of dally Pa- pers of the city of Savannah, be requested to de- vote two of the outside columns of iheir papers to the subject of Agriculture, as in the opinion of this society, the interest of a great number of their subscribers would be thereby greatly pro- moted. The Society then proceeded to elect officers for the current year, when all the old Board were re-elected, viz: John M. Berrien, President. John Lewis, 1st. Vlce-Presidenf. Thomas S. Clay, 21. Vice-President. Clem Powers, 3d. Vice-President. George J. Kollock, Corresponding Secretary. George Paul Harrison, Recording Secretary. Samuel C. House, Treasurer. Robert G. Guerard, Librarian. Board of Managers — VVilliam H. Cuy’er, George Jones, William B. Hodgson, Williain P. Bowen, and John S. Law. The business of the meeting having been closed, a very interesting conversation arose on the subject of the management of stock, and much practical information was elicited from the experience of the different members in rela- tion to the raising of hogs, &c. The seeds were then ffi'stributerl amongst the members, after which, on motion the Society ad- journed. Jno. Lt wis, Chairman. George J. Kollock, Sec’y pro tern. State Agricultural Association, The following gentlemen have been appoint- ed on the several commi'tees to report at the next annual meeiing, which will been the 3d Monday in November: 1. On the best method to prevent the washing of hilly land by frequent heavy falls of rain — H. T. Landrum, Wm. Lumpkin, J. H. Echols, ol Oglethorpe. 2. On the practicability of reducing to a pro- fitable state ol cultivation, the wet lands on the margins of creeks and branches, and the best method of ditching the same— Wm. Terrell, R. J. Sasnett, Jas. Thomas, of Hancock. 3. On the best method ot preparing land for planting and cultivating Indian corn — Samuel Pearson, Nathan Bass, John Farrar, of Put- nam. 4. On the best method of planting Cetton, and mode of culture; with suggestions as to the practicability of reducing the number ol acres and retaining an equal result as from a greater number — I. P. C . Whitehead, M. Marsh, Jas. Grubbs, ot Burke. 5. On the best method of preparing land for wheat, oats and barley, the method of sowing the same, and the variety most likely to succeed in our climate and soil— A. W. Redding, Jas. Dickson, R. M. Orme, of Baldw'ia. 6. Cn the practicability and importance to the State of growing our own bread stuffs, rais- ing our own horses, mules, pork and beet ; and wherher the wealth uf the Slate would not be promoted by pursuing such a course, and culti- vating less cotton — Tomlinson Fort, Baldwin ; John A. Jones. Paulding; John Harris, War- ren. By the President of the Association. J. R. CoTTiNG, Cor. Sec. S. A. A. Root Crops For Slock. This important and profitable branch of ag- riculture is totally neglected by a large majority of the farmers ol North Carolina. A lew raise turneps, and beets on a very small scale; the sweet potato is the only root croji cultivated to any great e.xtent among us; and this, for the use of stock, is confined to a coinparatively small portion of the State. THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 87 From waai wn have learned trom the success- ful practice and experience ol many intelligent practical tanners, we are firmly convinced that a just regard to economy and bountiful supply of provisions lor all ot our domestic animals, as well as for our families, requires that we adopt the plan of raising largely all the various kinds ol root crops, which are adapted to our soil and climate. They help astonishingly a short crop of grain, and save it surprisingly when it is a- bundant. They, moreover, are cultivated with less labor and expense in proportion to the pro- duct of a given quantity of land; their cultiva- tion aids in carrying out a judicious system of rotation of crops ; tends to preserve the land from rapid exhaustion ; and, in the event of the failure ofcaher crops, may, to someextent, sup ply the place of both corn and fodder. Among those which grow well in North Carolina, are carrots, ru'a-baga, beets, potatoes, and turneps. A little calculation, founded upon facts, will readily show whether it will be profitable or not for the farmer to raise these articles. Let us then compare their Respective nutritive values, together with their cost in raising, with hay. It has been ascertained that they compare with hay in value as follows; 276 pounds of carrots equal 100 pounds of hay. 300 do. ruta baga do. do. do 317 do. mangie-wurtzel do. 201 do. Potatoes do. do. do. 294 do. common turneps. do. do. This shows their comparative value. Now let us look at the expense ol raising. The Alba- ny Cultivator, to wbJch valuable paper we are indebted for this table, says the same degree ot fertility in soil will give about 250 bushels of potatoes, 500 of carrots, 600 or ruta-bagas, and 700 mangle-wurtzel — the expense of raising an acre of each nearly equal. Carrots, mangle- wurtzel and ruta-baga stand on nearly equal ground as to merits; but the far greater avidity with which horses will eat carrots, the excel- lent butter which results from their use when led to cows, and the little injury they receive from frost even when the crop, ora part of it, is left to winter in the ground where it grew, give this crop most eminently the preference. Ex- amine next their cheapness compared with hay. A ton of hay is equal to 5500 pounds of carrots, which, at 60 pounds to the bushel, would be 9l bushels. One acre of carrots, or 500 bushels, would be equal to 5i tons, or 11,000 pounds of hay. Such a crop may be raised and harvested for 12 to 15 dollars: which would make the car- rots a cheaper food than hay, if the hay were only S'3 a ton; but the superiority of the condi- tion of horses and cattle^ when fed freely on car- rots With hay, is an important additional advan- tage. Those of our readers, and we hope they are lew, who t/ank they “know as much about farm- ing as they ought to know,” v’ill treat these state- ments as “nothing but book-farming,^’ and go on as they have gone for years, making nothing but corn and potatoes, or corn and peas, and scarcely enough ol them to keep the bones of their plow nags together; but those who seek for practical knowledge from every enlightened source, and practice what they learn, are ever ready to profit by the experience of those who are ahead ol them in the science, and will, we doubt not, try the culture of root crops them- selves; and for their benefit we further stale, it must be borne in mind that all the roots above mentioned require neat and thorough culture — that they must be sown in drills from 2 to 2| feet apart — that the ground must be previously well plowed and harrowed — that they must be well hoed (or carefully plowed and hoed) soon after they are up, and when about 2 inches high thinned out, leaving about 4 inches space be- tween each plant for carrots — six for beets. — Weeds and grass must be kept scarce, and the ground Ii2ht and well pulverized. A writer in the Cultivator says he raised upwards of 1200 bushels of carrots to the acre. He sowed rows only 18 inches apart, and cultivated with the hoe. Sow in March or April. We care not whether the nights are dark or moonlight, so he ground is well and duly prepared. From irib New Orleans CommercialTimes. Sunflower Seed. Heluntuhs annous et perennis. — From experiments made by the Moravian Brethren at Bethlehem who were the first to introduce its cmanufacture, it appears that a bushel of sun flower seed will yield, on expression, near a gal- son of mild oil. The process is the same as that lor making linseed oil. The oil-ceke is believed to be quite as valuable lor stock-feed- ing. The per ceniage ol oil is not so great a.s hat from many other seeds, being stated by Ure at hlteen per cent. But the number of bushels of seed per acre is great, being variously stated at from 50 tj 150 — the lowest estimate being, perhaps, the nearest the truth. Even at that rale, and as food for stock, this must be one of the most valuable of crops. A letter, now be- fore us, from our observant old friend, Thomas S. Hinds, of Mount Carmel, Illinois — one of the few pioneers who have kept a record of events during the early settling ol the W est ; and which, he intorms us, he is about giving to the world— slates lhat “Mr. John Matthews, of Urbana, Ohio, informed me lhat he was offered 4,000 bushels ot sunflower seed, to be delivered him, from the banks of the Scioto, forty or filty miles distant, at twenty-five cents per bushel.” Mr. H. makes the deduction that as it can be produced so cheap, and as stock ol all kinds are fond ol it and thrive on it, it will prove a profi- table crop as food for stock; the more as the leaves make capital fodder. Mr. H. promises us a supply ol seed, ol a superior variety, to test its growth in the South. Since writing the above, we found an article in the Wcsteryi Farmer and Gardener, (Indian- apolis, la.j from the pen of its editor, fiom which wm make the following extracts: “Sunflower Seed. — To some extent this is likely to become a profitable crop, Mr. Clark Kitchener in this (Marion) county, tried about an acre of if this year. A part of it did not do well; but oil from one-halt acre he raised thirty- five bushels ; or seventy bushels to the acre. Me- dium lands will yield, on an average, fifty bu- shels; while first rate lands will yield from se- venty to one hundred bushels. Mode ol Cultivation. — I’he ground is prepar- ed in all respects as lor a corn crop, and the seed sown in drills four feet apart — one plant to every eighteen inches in the drill. It is to be plowed and tended, in all respects, like a crop ol corn. Harvesting, — As the heads ripen, they are ga- thered, laid on a barn floor and threshed. The seed shells very easily. Use. — The seed may be employed in fattening hogs, feeding poultry, etc., and for this last pur- pose it is better than grain. But the seed is more valuable at the oil mill than elsewhere. It will yield a gallon to the bushel without trouble, and by careful working, more than this. Hemp yields one and a fourth gallons to the bushel, and flax seed one and a hall by ordinary pres- sure; but two gallons under the hydraulic press. 1 he oil has, as yet, no established market price. It will range Irora seventy cents to a dollar, according as its value shall be establish- ed as an article tor lamps and for painters’ use. But at seventy cents a gallon for oil, the seed would command filty-fi ve cents a bushel, which is a much higher price than can be had for corn. It is slated, but upon how sufficient proof I know not, lhat sunflower oil is excellent lor burning in lamps. It has also been tried by our painters to someextent; and for fwsicie work it is said to be as good as linseed oil, Mr. Han- naman, of this place, who has kindly put me in possession of these facts, says, that the oil re- sembles an animal, rather than a vegetable oil; lhat it has not the varnish properties of the lin- seed oil. We suppose by varnish is meant the albumen and mucilage which are found in ve- getable oils. ****** The existence of impurities in oil, such as mucilage, albumen, wax, gums, etc., which in- crease its value to the painter, diminish its value for the lamp, since these substances crust or cloy the wick, and prevent a clearflarae. All oils may, therefore, the less excellent they are inr painting, be regarded as the more valuable for burning. Rape seed is extensively raised in Europe, chiefly in Flanders, for its oil, and is much used for burning. Ten quarts may be extracted from a bushel of seed. It is beginning to be raised in Ohio lor this purpose.” t. a. Rural Manners in England. The true English gentleman, living remote from the din of cities, and abstracted from the turmoil ot political life, upon his own acres; managing hisown estate, seeking the best means for its improvement, and superintending, under his own personal inspection, their application; doing what good he can to all around him ; ma- king those dependent upon him comfortable and contented; giving labour, counsel, encourage- ment, and ail needful aid, to his poor neigh- bours, and causing them, and their wives, and their chi dren, to look to him as a friend and a parent, to whose kindness their good conduct is always a certain claim; whom when the eye sees, it sparkles with grateful joy, and when the ear hears his footsteps, the sounds go like mel- ody to the heart ; who is in his neighborhood the avowed and unostentatious supporter of good morals, temperance, education, peace, and re- ligion, and in whose house you find an open- hearted hospitality, and abundant resources for innocent gratificahon, and forthe improvement ot the mind, with a pertect gentleness of man- ners, and unaffected piety presiding over the whole I say, such a man — and it has been my happiness to find many examples — need en- vy no one save the possessorof more power and a wider sphere of doing good; and need not co- vet the brightest triumphs of political ambition, nor the splendors and luxuries of royal courts. Whatever contributes, then, in any way, to elevate the agricultural profession, to raise it, from a mere servile or mercenary labor, to the dignity of a liberal profession, and to commend it not merely for its profit and usefulness, but as a delightful resource and recreation for a culti- vated mind, will certainly find favor with those who form rational views of life, who wish well to the cause ol good morals, and would multi- ply and strengthen the safeguards of human virtue. The class of individuals whom I have de- scribed— and I assure my readers I have drawn from real life, and deal in no fictions — find of- ten their own efforts seconded and aided by those whose encouragement and sympathy al- ways give new life and vigor to their exertions, and new pleasures to their pleasures,—! mean their own wives and children; and the farming operations, in all their history and details, and all their experiences and fitness, areas much matter of familiar and interested discussion at the fireside, as, in many other circles, the most recent novel, the change in fashion, or the latest triumph of parly. Indeed, I have seen, in many cases, the wives and daughters — and these, too, often persons of the highest rank and refine- ment—as well acquainted with every field and crop, their management and their yield, and with every implement and animal on the place, as the farmer himself; and I always put it down to the credit oftheir good sense. — Caiman’s Tour, No. 3. Rice Cakes.-- Boil a cup full of rice until It becomes a jelly, while it is warm mix a large lump of butter with it and a little salt. Add as much milk to a small teacupful of flour as will make a tolerably stiff batter — stir it until It is quite smooth, and then mix it with the rice. Beat six eggs as light as possible, and add them to the rice. Serve them with powdered sugar and nut- meg. They should be served as hot as possible, or they will become heavy. The best fertilizer of any soil is a spirit of in- dustry, enterprise and intelligence — without this, lime and gypsum, bones and green naa- nure, marl and guano, will be of little use. 88 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. ®l)c 0outt)eru CultxDator. AUGUSTA, GA. VOr.lV.. NO. 6 JUNK, 1846. Marl. Gov. Hammond's letter on Marl, we commend to the especial attention of the readers of the CuLTivATOH. We can assure them that they have not had such a treat in a long time. The Grain Crop. Up to this day (May 20th) accounts, from near- ly all parts of the Southern country, represent the prospects of the grain crop as promising be- yond anything that has been seen for many years. In the Cherokee counties of Georgia, and in Virginia, we hear complaints of the wheat crop being injured by the fly. American Plowing. The very high praise bestowed by Mr. Col- maw on English and Scotch plowing, has set our Agricultural editors to looking into the manner in which this most important operation is per- formed in America. The consequence is, that though good plowing is by no means so com- mon here as in England, yet there are many in- stances in which it is just as effectually done as in any case England can boast of. Mr. Botts, in the April No- of the Southern Planter, says: “ It is very probable that, as a general rule, the English Farmer gives more attention to appear- ances than wedo, butin all the essentials of good plowing we doubt whether some of the work done upon our James River plantations is excel- led any where. If Mr. C. had seen, as we have, a large four- horse Davis plow whirling the dirt over to the depth of ten or twelve inches, complete- ly subverting the earth, and hiding weeds as tall as the plowman’s breast, we are inclined to think he would have witnessed the exhibition of a higher degree of the plowing art than any he has seen in England, or than any that the nature of the country could afford. We can tell Mr. Col- man a secret that will surprise him and many of his countrymen — there are thousands and thou- sands of acres in Virginia so deeply and thorough- ly cultivated that the largest and best Northern plows are looked upon as mere toys and play- things. There is no subject on which more er- roneous opinions prevail at the North than as to the character of Virginia Agriculture.” Mr. Allen, editor of the American Agricultu- rist, next, gives us an account of plowing which he lately saw on the farm of Mr. E. J. Woolsev, near New York : " Mr. Pate, the manager, is a Scotchman, and having several Scotch plow- men, with Scotch plows at work, to gratify our curiosity he Invited us to see them operate. The work was not done for show, but was such as characterises the every day operations of good plowmen in Scotland, and if all were not as well done at home, they would be dismissed by their employer for awkward workmanship. The field in which we found the men at work was about 40 rods long, of a rich loamy soil, and coated with a tough old sward. Here the men set in and run their furrows from end to end, as straight as one could draw a line, turning them 6 inches deep, and 11 inches wide, slightly lapped, and packing them up, one after the other, all day dong, with a single pair of horses, each plowman driving his own team, and not varying through- out their work, as we could discover, a single inch in the thickness or width of their furrow slices. We have seen as good plowing in Great Britain, but never anything like it before, as a whole, in the U. States, though vre have often been present at the most celebrated plowing matches. There were no snake trails, or ram’s horns here, or half turned sods, or untouched ground, or skipped places, but the whole was as thoroughly and evenly done as it would be possi- ble to accomplish with the most careful spading, and when harrowed with the fine double harrow, the surface of the field had the appearance of a ■well dug and fine raked garden. “People may say what they please, yet we contend that good plowing is not only the first, but the most important part of the operations on the farm, and without it nothing else can be tho- roughly well done for the crop. It would be well for our farmers if they would take lessons on plowing, at least so far as to enable them to draw straight lines (for these are rarely seen in the U. States,) and stir and pulverize the soil well.” The Right Spirit. If those who are connected with the Agricul- tural press in the Southern States are compelled to submit to the disgust produced by the public apathy here, there is yet left for them a very high gratification derived from the knowledge of the fact that Agriculture and Agricultural papers are, in other parts of the U. States, properly appre- ciated. A gentleman of Wyoming, N. Y., writes thus to the editor of the Albany Cultivator ; I have taken your paper for three years, and would not now do without it for three times its cost. In 1844, I raised 229 bushels of ears of corn on an acre of land, and I do r ot think 1 should have done it, if I had not taken the Culti- vator.” A young man in Vermont, who had interested himself in getting subscribers for the same pa- per, writes r “ I am a boy of only 18. The interest I take in agricultural improvement is great. I should be glad to be one of the best farmers in the United States, and I mean to be, if Providence smiles on my efforts and grants me the blessings of health and strength, although I am without capi- tal, and am situated in the midst of the Green Mountains,” That’s the sort of boys, who, v/hen they be- come men, are to save this country from ruin, if such salvation belts destiny. We wish our South- ern boys v/ere, more of them, like this Green Mountain boy. We would then have less de- mand for Prince Albert coats and long-toed boots, but a higher appreciation of the moral and intel- lectual qualities that make a man of the right sorf So too is it in Ohio. The editor of the Ohio Cultivator of 16th May, says : “ We received a letter a short time since from J. W. Putnam, of Centre Belpre, Washington county, Ohio, en- closing payment for the Cultivator for himself and three others, and stating that all four of the subscribers are young men not yet out of their minoiity ; but, the writer adds, we are determin- ed to be fiarmers, and we wish, in addition to the benefits of uur fathers’ exiierience, to obtain a knowledge of the improvements that others have made in the art of cultivation.” Thereupon the editor remarks: — “Let this spirit become generally diffused among the farmers’ sons of Ohio, and in ten years time we challenge any other State in the Union to equal her in agricultural wealth and prosperity.” Morgan Horses, The editor of the Albany Cultivator is alto- gether wrong if he supposes the article in the March No. of the Southeen Cultivatoe was in- tended to throw doubt or discredit on Mr Weis- singee’s account of the Morgan horse, which we had copied in our February No. By no means. It was intended, as was distinctly staled, as a sort of counter-blast to the article of February — not to discredit it, but that if any one, by it, should be induced to think about getting a Mor- gan horse, he should look sharp with whom he is about to deal. That was ail. Our caution was not against alleged misrepre-entarions about the existence of this celebrated stock, but against the tricks of jockies, who would sell the veriest jackass for a Morgan horse, to any one who would allow himself to be thus cheated, and then make a boast of it, especially if the sale were mado to a Southern green-horn. Southern ludepeudehce. The lime sent from the Conasena Kiln, in Cass county, by Mr. Brown, we have received, ex- amined it carefully, and tried it sufficiently to satisfy us that, for all the purposes of the build- er, it is just as good as lime need be. Such, too, we understand, is the character given to it by every one who has tried it. In Augusta, we have heard it pronounced to be equal to the best Northern lime, in all respects ^ and in one great- ly superior, that is, in its freshness, owing to the short distance it has to be carried to that market, compared with the other. Some one has suggested, on the authority of Dr. Teoost of Nashville, that the rock of which Mr. Beown makes his lime is an inferior variety of limestone, known by the name of oolite. This is an error, both in Dr. Thoost and those who rely on him as authority. Mr. Brown assures us that his rock is not an oolite, and any one who chooses may satisfy himself by examining the small pieces of imperfectly burnt rock, that are sometimes found in this lime, that Mr. Brown’s limestone has nothing of the oolitic character about it. Figs. Surely we may have as good — nay, better — dried figs of our own growth and preparation than can be produced any w'here. The world does not produce finer figs than these same Southern States ; and they can be prepared for keepi ig and for export, just as easily as in Asia ; and thus we can have an article that we know to be clean. We can’t look upon an imported dried fig without a feeling of nausea. Why, the pro- cess of preparing them for market is tenfold more abominable than that used in making Foreign Madeira or Port Wine,, of which we gave an ac- count some time ago : THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 89 From the Sa vannah Republican. Dried Carolina Figs. —Mess?-s. Editors.- For some time I have been ofthe impression, that as good figs could be prepared in Georgia and Car- olina as the imported . Accordingly, last season I prepared a quantity, not for market, but for family use. As fig season is approaching, and as the crop has the appearance of being an abundant one, I give you, for the benefit of fig growers, m> plan of preparing them. Gather thefigs with the stems to them, before they are fully ripe; have a syrup prepared either of brown or white sugar; and •.vhile boiling, put in your figs and let them remain till they become flat, wh ch will be in a few minutes ; take them out, put them on a dish or tray, and place them in the sun; after they have drained, place them in another tray, taking care to turn them ; let them be turned and gent- ly pressed down twice a day. Two or three days sunning is sufficient to cure them. Before box- ing them, have some well dried oaf sugar sifted upon them — box them, and they are ready for use. It is important that they are not allowed to stay too long in the boiling syrup — if they do, they can never be properly dried. I contemplate sending you a box this season for exhibition in the Savannah market. Carolinian, Books for a Farmer’s Library. In the Ohio Cultivator we find a list of books on Agriculture, and kindred subjects, prepared by request, for the use of Farmers, Clubs, or of in- dividuals having the inclination to spend a little money in the purchase of such things as books. We transfer it to our columns for the benefit of our readers, having first made such corrections and additions as were necessary to make it suit our purposes and views. Agricultural Periodicals are unquestiona- bly the cheapest and best foundation for a farm- er’s library, embracing, as they do, the whole range of practical and scientific knowledge on almost all subjects relating to the farm, the garden, and the household. We would, there- fore, commence by subscribing for two or three or more of the following works, (supposing, ef course that the Southern Cultivator, is on hand:) The Albany Cultivator, (Si per year) including the two past volumes ; The American Agriculturist, (SI) with the three past volumes ; The Genesee Farmer, (50cts,) current volume ; Skinner’s Farmers’ Library, (S5) current volume — this embraces republications of several foreign works of great value, and should by no means be omitted ; The American (Quarterly Journal of Agriculture and Science (SI,) with past year’s volume — a work of high order. To these should be added any journal that is particularly adapted to the region or style of farming, as the Prairie Farmer, tor the West, the Southern Planter, and Southe’-n Agriculturist, for the South, &c. Oa Agricultural Chemistry, c^c. — Johnston’s Lectures is the best work — 2vols,Sl SOorl 75. As introductory to this, and especially for young persons, and those not familiar wdth chemical science, the Catechism of Agricultural Chemis- try, (25ets.) and a little work called Elements of Agricultural Chemistry and Geology, by the same author, (50cts.) are very useful. These embrace all the valuable discoveries of Liebig, and other chemists, and are much more easily comprehended by farmers— though persons who wish to become thoroughly scientific farmers, should of course add to these, Liebig’s Chemis- try of Agriculture, and his Animal Chemistry — the cost, in good style, is SI or SI 25 each. Next, we would add a recent work, called Rural Economy, by Dumas and Boussingault — SI 50. Then there are several excellent little works on the subject of manures and tillage, such as Dana’s Muck Manual, Smith’s Productive Farming, the Farmers’ Mine, &c., costing only 25 or 37 cents each, and well worth a place in the library. On general subjects, the Farmers’ Encyclope- dia, by C. W. Johnson, a very large and com- prehensive work, is indispensable to a good library — price $4; and Gardner’s new work, the Farmers’ Dictionary, (SI 50) must also be in- cluded. Then there are a number of smaller works of much practical value, such as Buel’s Farmers’ Companion, American Farmers’ In- structor, by Wiggins. The Complete Farmer, (by Fessenden.) &c , costing 75 cents to S '■ each ; Ruffin’s essay on Calcareous Manures; Ham- mond’s letter on Marl ; Reports on the Geologi- cal and Agricultural survey of South Caroli.ia by Ruffin and Tourney ; Essay on the soils and available manures of Georgia, by J. R. Cotting. On Cattle, Sheep, (f-c. — Youatt’s Treatise on Cattle, is the most complete— $2 or 2 50; Skin- ner’s edition of Clater and Youatt’s- Cattle Doc- tor— 50 cts. Stewart’s Stable Economy 1 25; ‘Every Man his own Farrier,’ (Clater’s) 50 cts.; ‘Morrell’s American Shepherd,’ 61, and last, though not least, ‘Bement’s American Poulte- rer’s Companion, 61 25. On Horticulture. — We would have ‘Bridge- man’s Young Gardener’s Assistant,’ 61 50, or ‘McMahon’s American Gardener,’ 2 25, [and we should like to add ‘Downing’s Landscape Gar- deninff.’ if it were not for ihe expense,] ‘Down- ing’s Fruits and Fruit Trees,’ must certainly be included, 62; though, if this cannot be ob- tained, ‘Thomas’ Fruit Culturisi’ — 50 cts. — can be made to answer as a substitute; or Kenrick’s American Orchardist, which is better. Nursery- men and Florists will need to extend this list. To the foregoing list, there might, with pro- priety, be added works on sciences intimately connected with agriculture — as geology, botany, entomology, mechanics, philosophy, &c. — some knowledge of which, should be possessed by every w'ell-informed, scientific farmer. But we find that our list already embraces about 35 volumes, the cost of which would be about 50 dollars; and fearing that a larger list might alarm those for whom it is designed, we will add no more at present. Public Property. We like very much the following suggestions, made by the Rev. Mr. Beecher In the Western Farmer and Gardener, ofw'hich he is the editor. Every one living in a town or in the country may consider them as addressed directly to himself. It is positively a sickening sight to see the condition of the streets, side-wulks, public squares and shade trees of many of our villages, and of the roads, fences, and yards, around many houses of great pretension in the country; so much so, indeed, so far as the villages are con- cerned, that travellers from parts of the U. Slates where these things are properly attended to, will often turn aw'ay wdth loathing and disgust, pre- ferring to lodge in country taverns. It is still more sickening to see such advertise- ments as have lately appeared in the newspapers of Macon and Athens, about depredations com- mitted on the new cemetry of the former, and the Botanic Garden of the latter. Both, we fear, will have to be given up in despair, simply be- cause people, pretending to be respectable, will not keep their hands off what does not belong to them, and what, therefore, they have no right to touch. [From the Western Farmer and Gardener ] Protect Public Property. — What if it does concern every body' else as much as it does you? Some one ought to see that the tences about the square or common are kept in repair. Some one ought to save the trees from cattle. Some one ought to have things in such trim as that the inhabitants can be proud of their own town. Pride is not decent when there is nothing to be proud of; but when things are worthy of it, no man c?n be decent w’ho is devoid of a proper pride. The church, the school-house, fences, trees, bridges, roads, public squares, cide- walks— these are things which tell tales about people. A stranger can hardly think well of a place in which the distincuon between the house and the hog-sty is not obvious ; in which every one is lazy when greediness does not excite him, and where general indolence leaves no time to think of the public good. When politicians are apparently on the point of dissolving, in the very fervent heat of their love for the public, it would recover the fainting soul quicker than heartshorn or vinegar io ask them — Did you ever set out a shade tree in the street ? Did you ever take an hour’s pains about your own village? Have you secured it a lyceum? Have you watched over its schools ? Have you aided in any arrangements for the re- lief of ihepoor? Have you shown any practi- cal zeal for good roads, good bridges, good side- walks, good school-houses, good churches? Have the young men in your place a public libra- ry ? If the question were put to many distinguish- ed village patriots, w'hat have you done for the public good? — the answer wmuld be, “Why, I’ve talked till I’m hoarse, and an ungrateful public refuse me any office by which 1 may show my love for public interest in a more practical man- Hcr.” In the same paper, Mr. Beecher gives us a short, pithy article on spring work for public- spirited men, as follows: From the Western Farmer and Gardener. Spring work for Public-spirited Men — Shade Trees. — One of the first things that will require your action is the planting of shade trees. Get your neighbors to join with you. Agree to do four times as much as your share, and you will, perhaps, then obtain some help. Try to get ?omc to do the same in each street of your village or town. Locusts, of course, you will set for immediate shade. They will in three years afford you a delightful verdant umbrella as long as the street. But maples form a charming row, and the au- tumnal lints of their leaves and the spring flow- ers add to their beauty. They grow quite rapid- ly, and, in six years, if the soil is good and the trees properly set, they will begin to cast a de- cided thudow. Elms are, by far, the noblest tree that can be set, but they will have their own time to grow. It is best, then, to set them in a row of other trees, at about fifty or a hundred feet apart, the intervening space to be occupied with quicker growing varieties. The beech, buckeye, horse-chestnut, syca- more, chestnut, and many others may be em- ployed with advantage. Now, do not let your court house square look any longer so barren. Will not the commissioners do, as they have done in Marion county, set out the space in shade trees at the public expense? If they will fol ow so creditable an example, pray don’t imitate the manner. Some tw'enty rows of trees stand up w’ith the most distressinge-vactness. They were laid out by a surveyor with his chain, and do not vary, we believe, an inch from a straight line. Avenues may be lined with row's of trees ; but squares and open spaces should have’ them grouped or scattered in small knots and parcels in a more natural manner. Mutton. We sincerely hope Mr. Allen will be as good as his word. The habits of our people in regard to diet need reform, nearly as much as in any other respect. If Mr. ALLENshall succeed in expelling from use the never-ending hog and hominy of the West, and the bacon and collards of the South, he will be entitled to the never-ending gratitude of the people. In a late number of his paper, the American Agi iculturist, he ple.lges himself thusi “We mean to repeat at least a thousand times, or till what we say has some effect upon our countrymen, that a pound of lean, tender, juicy mutton can be raised for half the cost of the same quantity offatpork; that it is infinitely health- ier food, especially in the summer season ; is more agreeable to the palate w hen one gets ac- customed to it; and that those who eat it be- come more muscular, and can do more work with greater ease to themselves than those who eat fat pork. We know nothing more delicate than smoked mutton hams of the Southdown breed of sheep— venison itself is not superior. Sheep can be kept in fine growing order, where other do- mestic animals will scarcely exist, and thousands of acres in the State, under an enlightened sys” tern of sheep husbandry, may be made to pay a good interest, where now they are nearly dead property in the hands of their present owners,” 90 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. Plowing. We give the following article from Dr. Lee’s paper, the Genesee Farmer, a prominent place in the Cultivator, because there are ideas in it about plowing, and the nourishment of plants, which cannot be too strongly impressed on the minds ot southern readers. That there is some- thing ot science in it can be no objection, for it is presented in so clear and simple a manner as to be easily understood by every one. From the Genesee Farmer We Spent an evening, not Ions since, in com- pany with a very intelligentpiactical and scien- tific farniCr, who was discussing with his son the subject ol^Zoin?rg, which incidentally brought under review a variety ot topics oi great inter- est in the art ot cultivating the soil. The son advocated the propriety ot turning the earth by the plow directly bottom upwards, so as to pre- sent a smooth and even surface when the work is done. It was urged that this method had the . merit of killing all grass and vreeds better than any other thatcan be adopted. The lather thought difierenlly, and drew with a pencil, in illustratiori ot his views, a diagram representing furrows seven inches deep and four- teen wide, lapping the edge ot one on to the ne.xt only two inches. By this process, he said, you expose to the decomposing and mellowing influ- ence of the air, z«c/ies of surface, to every inch in length ot each lurrow. Son. — I don’t understand how that can hap- pen, seeing that the furrow is only fourteen inches wide. Will you e.xplain? Father. — Certainly. As each furrow laps but two inches on the upturned surface of the pre- ceding one, it is plain thattvvelve inches oteach sod w'ill be exposed to the air. Then you have seven inches more at the end of the furrow, be- ing the depth at which the plow wasdriven — making nineteen inches exposed on the upper side. On the under side, you have seven inch- es at the other end of the f urrow, twelve on that which has been turned over, and twelve inches more on the bottom from which the sod or earth has been lifted. This gives a surface of thirty- one inches below, and altogether a surface of fifty inches. If you do count the laps anything, (and they are only two inches,) then, by plowing alter my plan, you get threesurlaces of fourteen inches each, besides two of seven inches each, at the e.nds oi the lurrow, in the place of onesur- face only, of fourteen inches, when you turn each lurrow upside do an. S.—\ concede that you get about three times as much surface exposed to the atmosphere by your system, as is attainable by mine. Never- theless, you must admit, that on dry, gravelly soils, it is important to keep the earth as com- pact as possible. Under such circumstances, is my plan not better than yours? On loose sandy, or gravelly soils, the por- tion ot earth raised by the plow, will not hold together in the manner I have indicated. If it has turf and compactness enough to lie up at the angle and in the manner I have spoken of, it w’ill be better to have it so than otherwise. If the ground is ton loose and porous at the time of seeding, the roller can be, and should be ap- plied. 6’. — I see that you understand the subject of plowing much better than 1 do; and I should be happy to learn what the mere drawing of a plow through the field, and thus breaking up the soil, adds to it or ta'^’es away from it, so that crops should grow in the one case, and not in the other? F. — This question strikes at the root of the art of culture, and can only be answered by call- ing to our assistance the light of modern science. That the thorough stirring of the soil to a con- siderable defith, either with plow, harrow, cul- tivator or spade, is extremely beneficial to all cultivaied plants, is a fact which was settled thousands of years ago, ami has ever since been verified, by all practice and experience. Wheth- er the eaith be sirrea with a clam-shell, a wood- en stick, or an iron plow, nothing is thereby ad- ded directly to the soil. The important results that follow, are all purely chemical changes in the combinations of matter, a knowledge ot which is of incalculable value to the practical farmer. S. — What are the changes in (he ingredients ofthe surface of the earth, which supply plants with much additional food, when the soil is well pulverized by the skilful use of rural imple- ments ? F. — As a key to these mutations, you must ever bear in mind these two facts ; First, that no undissolvedoAWhy substance can enter the minute pores of the roots of plants to nourish them.— All such solid lood must be dissolved in water, to be available. Secondly — that when earthy substances like common salt, the salts of lime, potash, siliica, &c., are dissolved, no mere filter like the soil, or a barrel ot wood-ashes put up to leach, can prevent salt water from running away from the roots of plants, and thus at once depriving them of their proper nourishment, and robbing the soil ot its fertilizing elements. S'. — Let me fully understand whatyou mean. Do you say that, alt solid mailer in the earth must be dissolved in water before it can pass through the very small tubes in plants; and when solids aredissolved, they are prone to pass with water deep into the subsoil, and into ditch- es, brooks, and ultimately into the tcean ? F. — Yes. The waterthatfalislrom the clouds in rain and snow, and passes no more than twelve or fifteen inches into the surface of the earth, and then runs into creeks and i ivers, takes with it m solution, some of the earthy salts used by cultivated plants in organizing their living tissues. If a field be plowed and harrowed re- peatedly, at short intervals, and nothingallowed to grow upon it, its cultivation will impoverish it, bv increasing the solution, and the washing aw’ay of the mineral elements of all crops. S'. — What evidence have you that soluble salts like those in the dung and urine of ani- mals, guano, and other fertilizers, pass with rain water through the surlace soil, and into brooks and ditches? F.— Common salt applied to land at the rate of only three bushels per acre, has been found in the w ater of ditches alter a rain, that fell soon after the salt was sown. Any soluble salt placed on a barrel filled with leached a.shes or soil, and then dissolved with water, wdll pass through the earth, and come oat through the bottom like ley. Coloring matter, like that in the liquid which flows from dung heaps, may be separated by a good filter, but the salt in brine cannot. S'. — What practical inference do you draw from the several facts you have staled? F.— First, that all soluble minerals, like salt, ashes, lime, guano, and stable manure, should be applied as close to the mouths (or spongioles in the roots) of plants as possible. Secondly, ll at a sound judgment must be exercised to a- void commencing loo soon to plow, harrow, and otherw’ise su'r the soil for a future wheat, corn, or other crop. S. — What salts are most likely to be lacking in ordinary soils, which are needed in forming grain and root crops ? F. — They are the soluble salts of potash, so- da, magnesia, and lime: being sulphates, phos- phates, carbonaies, silicates, and chlorides of those bases. S'. — What articles will cheaply supply these mineral substances ? F. — Unleached wood-ashes, lime, salt, plas- ter, and bones. Plants that have long tap-roots, like clover, aided by a little gypsum, lime, and wood-ashes, together with deep plowing, can do much to fertilize a poor soil, by drawing many important minerals from a greater depth in the soil than the roots of wheat, &c., can pene- trate? To Prevent Lamps from Smoking — An exchange says, soak the wick in strong vinegar and dry well before using, and it will then burn sweet and pleasant, paving well for the trouble. ©riginal Communications. The Right Spirit. Mr. James Camak: — The mail having reach- ed our town at a late hour last night, I was early at the post office this morning, hoping to find the May Nos. of the agricultural papers, and was so lortunaie as to meet the Soulheim CvMi- valor, the American Farmer, and the American Agriculturist lor the present month. On look- ing into the Southern Cultivator, I found matter of sorrow and pleasure mingled toge- ther— of sorrow, at the just but severe rebuke of the editor of the Maine Farmer — of pleasure, at the waking up of the larmeis in support ot the Southern Cultivator. 1 am glad that this matter has been started so early inihe year. I was pleased to find, in the April No., the let- ter Irom Hr. Hurt, ot Alabama, in which that gentleman evinced a disposition to step forward at once in support of the Cultivator, in the number now betore me, 1 am delighted to find Mr. Farrar out with a proposition that I am highly pleased with. Now, Mr. Editor, I will make a proposition, and in making it, I do so with a full determination (if spared,) to carry it out to the letier. 1 will be one ol one thou- sand farmers who will undertake to procure and send to the publishers of the Southern Culti- vator (they paying the postage on the letteis enclosing the monej .) twenty subscribers each, lor the filth volume of the Southern Cultiva- tor. Twenty thousand subscribers is the num- ber that I have desired to see taking that valua- ble agricultural paper ; and tlieie is nothing ea- sier than tu procure that number ii the farmers will only determine to do it. Since the com- mencement ol the publication, I have sent some two hundred dollars to the publishers, and I know I could have done much more by a great- er effort. Now, I do hope that the cultivators of the soil ot niy native State, (Georgia,) will rally around the Cultivator. 1 make the above proposition from long experience ol the profit as wCil as pleasure of reading agricultural pa- pers. I now receive, monthly, some six of those works, and indeed I would be at a com- plete loss without them. I was highly pleased the last summer in vi- siting the editors ol the diflTerent agricultural pa- pers, at the high, the very high stand that the Southern Cultivator held among the farmers in difierent parts of the United States. Mr. Editor, there is a thousand ladies that would pay their dollarfor the Cultivator to aid them in the management ol their gardens, if the subject was only brought before them. There is a thousand lawyers that would, each, give a dollar lor the Cultivator to enable them to en- ter into conversation on the highly important subject of husbandry, if for no other object; for no man wishes to be dumb when the subject of agriculture is mentioned. Now, Mr. Editor, if one thousand can’t be had to enter into the above proposition, I will be one of five hundred, or any number that will come up to the mark. Any sacrifice sooner than lor the Cultivator to stop. Where is the Southern farmer that would not leel his pride touched in a moment by such attacks as Mr. Holmes, of Maine, is throwing at us. One word as to the seasons, in conclusion. The month of April has been a complete anti- pode of the same month last year. April ol ’45 was a continuation ol dry weather. April oi ’46, a continuation of rain, and some con- siderable cold, and washing rains, that upon the whole the stand of cotton is poor generally. The corn crop, the gold of ihej farmer, looks well. The wheat crop, it is thought, has been somewhat injured by the large amount of wet weather. Hoping your efforts to improve the agricul- tural interests ol our common country will prove successful, I am, sir, your friend and obe- dient servar t, Alexander McDonald. FAifaula, Baibour Co., Ala., May 9, 1846. THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 91 Agriculture— Horseley’s Wine and Nursery. Mr. Camak:— Itis doubtless very gratifying to every old Georgian, who, like myself, has long deplored the lethargy which oppressed the ener- gies of his native State and kept her in the rear of many ol her confederates in the race of im- provement, to see her at length waking up to a proper appreciation of her vast capabilities. But, while he rejoices at the improvement in her mo- ral and social condition, and at the progressive development of her natural resources, which have been effectea within the iast ten or fifteen years, as illustrated by the increase ol her colle- ges and other seminaries of learning; her rail roads and steamboats; her numerous fine flour mills and cotton factories; her iron foundries and gold mines, besides many other things that might be mentioned, as evidences of her ad- vancement in science, commerce and arts, he is mortified by the reflection that the hand of im- provement has lent but little aid to agriculture upon which all other interests depend. He sees this great and important interest still languishing and degraded, and the planter still pursuing the old wear-out and break-down sys- tem which has already brought his class to the verge of bankruptcy. And it is much to be feai- ed that neither the \ery able and praiseworthy efforts of the Southern Cultivator, nor the wailing Jeremiads of its correspondents, will prove competent to arrest theonvvard and devas- tating course or to overcome the numerous impediments to agricultural improvement. It v.’ould be inconsistent with my present purpose, even if it were thought profitable to Jo so, to inquire particularly into the various causes of the drooping condition of this noble branch of industry. None, it is believed, however, hasop- erated more fatally than the want of sufficient incitements to a proper division of labor, and of adequate patronage to new enterprises. Whe- ther indeed this may not to a great extent be re- garded as the effect or natural consequence of the many humbugs of which the planter has been made the victim, might form a very proper subject of investigation. It is nevertheless true that there is not sufficient encouragement afford- ed to these who manifest a disposition to withdraw their labor from the cultivation of our great sta- ple, and to engage in new pursuits. There is something radically wrong in the spirit and tone of public feeling in regard to this matter. Until a change is effected in the tendency of this feel- ing, there is little prospect that any efforts to give a new direction to a portion of the labor de- voted to agriculture, will prove successful Be- lieving patronage of new pursuits to be essen tial to success, and that a proper division of la- bor is strongly demanded by the present condi- tion of the planting interest, I would respect- fully suggest to you and your many useful and talented co-laborers, the necessity of continued and increased exertions to effect, however Her- culean the task may be, a change in public feel- ing and taste upon this subject. In other countries the cultivation of the vine and of silk has proved eminently successful and lucrative — and experience in this country, and in our own State, has demonstrated that they may be cultivated as advantageously here as any where else. Why, then, is their culture al- most abandoned in Georgia! Again, in other States the publication of periodical papers devo- ted to the cause of the planter, has been found a profitable as v/ell as a useful occupation. Why then does it become probable that your publish- ers will be compelled to discontinue the “Cul- tivator,” a paper creditable alike to the talents of its editor, the enterprise of its publishers, and the cause to which it is devoted! The want of sufficient patronage is the answer to both interrogatories. No wonder then that agriculture languishes in Georgia ! "^In the March No. of the Cultivator, you have taken occasion to speak in high terms of commendation of samples of wine made by Mr. Peabody, of Ala., and Mr. Speed, of Ga. The first of these gentlemen, it seems, has haJ the good fortune and good sense to find and introduce to public notice a valuable native grape. Well nov/, I beg leave to inform you and your readers, that Mr. James Horseley, a very intelligent and enterprising neighbor of mine, has been for a number of years engaged in the nursery business, has cultivated the vine success- I fully, and made wine from many varieties of fo- reign and native kinds of grape. He manufac- tured the last season from the Scuppernong grape alone, some 200 to 2£0 gallons of wine. After several years’ experience wiih different kinds of grape, Mr. Horseley pronounces the Scupper- nong superior to any other variety known in this climate, as more hardy, more certain and more productive — the fruit too, it may be added, stands almost without a rival for deliciousness of flavor. I have had the pleasure of tasting some of Mr Horseley’s wines, but not being a connois- seur in such matters, 1 am not prepared to speak critically of their merits. This much, I do know, however, that to my unpracticed palate, their flavor is exceedingly pleasant. And no- thing prevents you, sir, from having a chance of smacking your lips over a bottle el'ihis excel- lent and unadulterated juice but the want of a suitable conveyance. But Mr. Horseley is with- out a marked ! He has not sufficient encourage- ment to dress his vines and prepare for another vintage. Now, if one-tenth part of the hundreds of thousands of dollars which are annually sent abroad for the purchase of the abominable com- positions which pass under the name of wine, were expende 1 for the pure, undriigged domes- tic article, the above named enterprising gentle- men, and others, would be encouraged to prose- cute their labors, and to devote their time and attention to a much neglected but useful branch of business, whereby they would attain to great- er proficiency in the manufacture of wine. F'ur- thcr, if those who desire to raise vineyards or orchards of fruit trees would send their orders to Mr. Horseley, they would be served wit!) fi- delity, and another useful branch of business would be encouraged and sustained. His nurse- ry contains, perhaps, a greater variety of fruit trees and vines than can he found elsewhere in Western Georgia, which lie offers at prices low- er than they are usually sold for by nursery men. Say, for rooted vines, 6 to 10 cents ; fruit trees, S7 per hundred. But such is the prevailing bias for everything foreign, that consumers of wine in this State will scarcely be induced to prefer the domestic unless it were offered to them under some out- landish name or unintelligible brand — or those who need fruit trees to believe they can do as well at home as to send their money abroad — or those who subscribe for Northern agricultural papers, that they can do better for themselves and their own State by subscribing for and sus- taining the Southern Cultivator. ilespectfuHy, D. Kendall F'rankLn Academy, Upson Co., Ga,, April 11. The Squash Crop-- Measures. Mr. Camak: — Among all the articles contain- ed in your valuable paper about raisingfood, both for man and beast, I don’t find that any of your contributors have taken notice of this im.portant crop. I say important, because I consider them valuable lor family use, and a most excellent article of food for hogs. In July and August, when most other vegeta- bles have failed, nothing suits iny taste better than a large dish of well served up squashes. They are excellent and cheap food for negroes. But above all, I value them for my hogs. I have a large pot filled up full at night and boiled, ready for my hogs in the morning, then pour them into a large trough, and the hogs will de- vour them greedily to their great benefit. I pre- fer boiling at night on account of getting the li- quor, in which dinner was boiled, which I con- sider valuable, not only as food for them, but strving to free them from tire mange. The squashes should be chopped up so as to make them boil quicker, and a litile sail added. The mode of cultivation is quite simple — the same as for pumpkins. I prefer planting early so as to have them ready for use as soon as pos- sible, but May will do for them. A late crop is belter than noneat all. All who will take the pains to plant a spot of ground in squashes and feed them to their hogs, will not regret it next September. The best of all is, tliey come when corn is s"arce, and hogs fed on them will improve ra- pidly, and will be already in an improving con- dition by the time your fields are ready nm them. After having the run of your pea-fields they wi'l be nearly ready to kill. And in the end, a vast amount of corn will have been saved. I raise the large white squash. I think they are the best. Measures. — I thank you, friend Camak, for the notice of my mistake in the size of the bu- shel. You ask for my authority to make iho bushel to contain 2,160 cubic inches. I simply answer that I had as much right to make a wrong measure as anybody, but did not do it de- signedly. I have always heard it said that a foot and a fourth made a bushel, and made my mea- sures accordingly, but however I will say no more and make corrections. I am sorry to learn that your paper is not well supported. For my pait I would rather pay five times the subscription price, than for the paper to be stopped. Brother farmers, let us all try; none of us know what we can do until we try. Each of us can get one of our friends to subscribe, a great many can get five, and many twenty-five. I firmly believe that in supporting the Southern Cultivator we are greatly beiie- fitting ourselves and the country at large. Your humble servant, _Pedro. Baldwin County, Ga , April lith, 1846. Bermuda Grass. Mr. Camak: — Desirous of procuring a good summer pasture grass, I have this soring plant- ed something like a bushel of the roots of the Bermuda Grass. My place is twelve miles above this village, and about the same distance from the foot of the Saluda mountains. This grass has not, so far as I know, been tried b-fore in this climate. I know of none highe’’ than the neighborhood of old Pendleton. Since I have planted it I have received many alarming lec- tures on the impossibility of extirpating, and of preventing it from spreading. Although I have not heard anything I did not know before I planted it, yet the lectures have had the effect of causing reflections which perhaps would not otherwise have occurred, and I now propose to give the readers of the Southern Cultivator a part of the result of .those reflections. For physiological reasons I should suppose that Bermuda Grass might be extirpated by the cultivation of the long Jerusalem Ariichoke. The artichoke puts up in the spring rather ear- lier than the grass. The top grows raoidly, and by proper management can be made to shade the ground perfectly. '1 he artichoke will grow in the fall as late as the grass. The light and free access of atmospheric air, are indispensable for the healihful growth of the grass The arti- choke can be made to exclude both these. Can- not the gras.s be choked out by it ! As the arti- choke will need only to be worked the first year, in this way it seems to me the grass may be ex- pelled from any spot of land without much trouble ot expense. This, I admit, is all theory, for I have had no opportunity of making the experiment, but should be glad to liear the result of such trial by some one who has Bermuda Grass. Yours, respectfully, A. B. C. Greenville Court House, S. C , April 10, 1846. Drought— Short Crrp— Fertilizing Depc- sit— Analysis. Mb. Camak: — I have been a subscriber to your valuable agricultural paper for three years, much to my gratification and interest as a farm- er, and have, during the time, endeavored to im- press on the minds of my immediate associates and friends (farmers) the importance of such a work, and more especially one adapted to our clime as yours is — and I hope success has at- tended my efforts to some ex'enl, from what your agent, Mr. Goul«ing, informed me at our February Superior Court. I am nothing but a plain, uneducated man, not in the habit of wri- ling anythin? for the inspection or criticism of the public, But I discover your views and feel- ings are republican, in relation to your patrons and correspondents ; therefore, 1 take the privi- lege to write to you on such subjects as I feel interested in, and perhaps others of yourpatrons also. My first inquiry is, has not the unprece- dented drought throughout the State been, or will if not be, a general benefit to the communi- ty ultimately where it existed! Judging from my own feelings and necessities, I would say it would bo decidedly so Until the year 1845 I have been fortunate crough to make and raise 92 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. everything in abundance necessary on a planta- tion fir all the purposes desired ; but to my great mortification I did not the past year make, on my farm, on good tillable land, ha'f a support for my family. These facts were fully developed to me during the drought of last summer ; conse- quently, I began to devise the means of living the present year, by arranging in my own mind the most economical measures, to that effect, and forthwith ordered a corn and cob-crusher mill, and a portable burr stone for grinding corn into meal ; both of which I received and have now in successful operation, and to the advantage of a large family, &c. During the drought, the past summer, a lake situated on my premises a half mile from a iarge creek, and on a level with the same, became en- tirely dry, which led to an investigation of its composits. From the inspection I gave it, it appears to be very valuable as a manure; conse- quently, I submitted it to the analysis and tests of scientific gentlemen, and amongst them Dr. Cottinff, formerly State Geologist, the result of which 7 give you below, which you are at liberty to dispose of as you may think best for the cause you are engaged in. Wishing you every success in. the cause of agriculture, I am very respectfully, yours, D. C. Rose, [Copy.] Geological Department, ? Milledgeville, March 3, 1846. i Dear Sir: — Agreeable to your request, I have analyzed the specimen of “ humus,” &c., you sent me, and fin 1 it to be a very excellent fertili- zer. From its constituents, I am convinced that, if properly and scientifically applied, it will be found to be the most powerful stimulus to ve- getation of any .=ubstance hitherto used in agri- culture in the State. It you can obtain it in sufficient quantity it will prove a most valuable acquisition to your agricultural interest. In my opinion it is far superior to any artificial guano hitherto prepared, and nearly equal to the natur- al. But in order for its producing its greatest ef- fects in vegetation, it should be intimately min- gled with lO per cent, of lime or ashes. It should be covered by the soil 2 or 3 inches to prevent a too great evaporation of the gasses and other v.rlatile matters, which are the greatest fertili- zing piinciples in all manures. Its origin appears to be a decomposition of vegetable and animal substances, mostly vegeta- ble. The following is a correct analysis made with genuine tests and re-agents, atmosphere, at mean pressure and temperature. Quantity 1,000 Grains Troy. Water of absorption ...110. Organic matter, principally humus and oxalate, crenate, apocrenate of ammonia, &c., volatiliz- ed by heat 296. Bilica 270. Oxide of Iron 16, Phosphate of Lime 98.5 Apoc renate of Alumina 150.5 Phosphate of Magnesia 25. Oxide of Magnesia 5. Crenate of Potassa 29. 1,000.0 It will be seen by the above that almost every constituent in the composition is a fertilizer for most vegetables, and in greater or less propor- tions enter into their composition. Yours respectfully, J. R. Cotting, S. G. To Maj. D. C. Rose, Meriwelhei Co , Ga. Perhaps these discoveries may lead others to an investigation of Nature’s works and resour- ces. If it should, my object is accomplished. One other inquiry: Was it not a great over- sight in our State Legislature to have discontin- ued the services of Dr. Cotting? or rather not to have continued the services of some one pro- fessing his knowledge in that way. I, as an humble individual and a planter, would freely be taxed 2o per cent, on iny estate to know some- thing more of our resources— Texas, Oregon, Californias, or even Mexico, attached to our re- public, to the contrary notwithstanding. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, D. C. Rose. P. S. This composit (from the examination I have made,) 1 consider inexhaustible, so far as my farm, consisting of some three or four hun- dred acres in cultivation is concerned, and a half dozen others of the same extent. R. ” Guano Island," Meriwether Co., Apn7, 1846. Taladega County Agricultural Society. Mr. James Camak: — Dear Sir, — Having read, with much pleasure, several numbers ol the Southern Cultivator, ot which I perceive you are the Edilo’", I lake the liberty of sending you a copy of a resolution, unanimously adopt- ed by the “Taladega County Agricultural So- ciety” at its last meeting, and giving you some account of the Society itself. The resolution to which I refer is as follows: “Resolved, that this Society highly appreci- ate the value of agricultural periodicals, as a means of agricnltural improvement, and espe- ciallp do they appreciate the vaiue of the ‘ Southern Cultivato.r,’ publised in the city of Augusta, under the editoiial direction of Mr. James Camak, and pledge themselves to use all reasonable exertions to encourage its circula- tion.” The Taladega Cotmly Agricultural Society was organized on the 16 h of August last. The officers then elected were, Col Wm. Curry, President; John A. Brown, and Green W, Penn, Esquires, Vice-Presidents ; Dr. B. W. Groce, Recording Secretary; A. Bowie, corresponding Secretary; Rev. James Stockdale, Treasurer, and Walton D. Riddle, Allen, Elston, Joseph Camp, Daniel Rattier and Thos. L. Best, an executive committee. We are likely to have some difficulty in keep- ing upa proper spirit amongst our members:' but we shall not yet despair of accomplishing, something for the too much neglected cause of agiicultural improvement. We occupy a young and favored country; and we shall surely be criminally blind to our own, and the interests of those who are to succeed us, if we suffer our virgin soil to fall a victim to the wretched sys- tem of culture, which in Carolina and Georgia, have almost ruined the fairest and most fruit- ful fields ot the sunny South. 1 hope the spirit of scientific and rational improvement, on this subject, has been at last aroused, and will never sleep again. I regret ihar, notwiths'anding our “resolu- tion,” I cannot encourage you to hope for many subscribers in this region. Our people are en- deavoring to practice a rigid economy, to re- lieve themselves from the heavy pressure of the times; and although the price ot the Culiivator is exceedingly low, it is difficult to pursuade honest men, who are in debt, to increase their burthens, unless for strict necessaries. A few names will, 1 understand, be soon forwarded to the publishers. With great respect, your obedient serv’t. A. Bowie. Taladega County, Ala., May 3, 1846. More of the Right Spirit. To the Editor— /Sir : I am no writer, nei- therdo I exercise any pretensions in that way, yet feeling as deep an interest in the cause of agri- cultural improvement as any man, perhaps, south of Mason & Dickson’s line, and perceiv- ing a probability that the Southern Culti- vator will be discontinued at the end of the pre- sent volume, unless more liberally patronized, I am induced to address a few lines ot condolence, designed not lor yourself, however, but the en- tire Southern States. Is it possible that these Slates, claiming the highest seats in the temple of civilization and refinement, will suffer this, their great Agricultural lever, to become ex- tinct, through a culpable apathy or niggardly parsimony. Let us hope tor the better. Should it however be the case, (which my humbleener- gies shall be exerted to prevent,) it will afford evidence, clear as demonstration, ofthe extreme blindness of the Southern people, to their high- est and most substantial interests, and of their willingness, patiently to grope their way through the same labyrinth of agriculiuial darkness which enveloped our ancestors, who, though pure, honest, and patriotic, have platted and set- tled upon us, their posterity, as a heritage, such a multitude of unsightly sedgefields and yawn- ing gullies. We call upon Georgia to wake up to this important matter in her own bosom. Let herciiizens match up to the support ot tt is paper, in solid phalanx, as they would to the ballot box ; let all, every one, put his shoulder to the wheel, to redeem it from impending dissolu- tion. 11 Georgia will furnish us such an ex- ample, I have confidence that South Carolina, distinguished, as she ever ha« been, fur mag- nanimity and patriotism, will tender her sup- port freely. We call upon all the Si'Uthern States and every individual in those States, to rally to the rescue, and avert the pending dis- grace, for it could be nothing less. The terms of the paper are within every man’s reach, and every man who tills one acre of ground should have a copy. Should this be the state of affairs, Mr. Editor, (and we hope to see it realized in a great degree) but a few years will roll around ere we will not only perceive but reap the advantages — when the unsightly sedgefields, to which 1 have alluded, would disappear, and those sections so deeply marked by the blighting hand of uns’iriUul hus- bandry, be made to “ blossom as the rose.” I am much flattered with the belief that the long night, which has shrouded the people of Ander- son on the subject of agriculture and book-tann- ing, is passing avvay, and that we can even now perceive the dawn. The shackles which have heretofore bound them, and the imputed obliga. tion to do as “daddy” did is giving way, and a new set of corrected principles, based upon the discoveries and improvements of scientific men, are being generally adopted. On sale day in May, a number of the citi- zens of the District met in the Court House for the purpose of forming an Agricultural Society. Although the notice was short, and not perhaps generally understood, there was no difficulty in procuring thirty subscribers as members. This, 1 think, augurs well for the cause. I am flat- tered with the impression, that at the next meet- ing (sale day in June) our number will have been doubled, perhaps trebled. In conclusion, Mr, Editor, I wish to add my- self to the list of Mr, Farrar’s “few” who will take the back numbers ol the Cultivator. You will please forward Vol’s 1, 2 and 3 to An- derson C. H., S. C. A Carolinian. Anderson District, S. C , May 13, 1846. Dogs. Mr. Camak: Buffon thought all these ani- mals descended from one and the same stock — the wolf. That may be probable; and domes- t'calion and the different climates in which they are found, may have given them their various outlines of conlormation. Like the wolf they are all, or nearly so, beasts ot prey, when not taken care to be pleniit ully led ; and as the sheep is the most easily caught, by consequence, that is the animal they most prey upon. Mankind have put dogs to various uses. — While in China they are butchers’ meat and used just as we do hogs, in Kamskatka they are horses — harnessed to the sledges, and the only coursers in that cold country. In some countries, in northern and middle Europe, they have wool like sheep, from which hats have been made and from which cloth can be, if the odor were not, I think, somewhat detergent. Again, under the equatorial line, especially in Africa, they are hairless, and seem as naked as my hand. In Scotland is the terrier, in Paris the diminutive lap-dog, in England the bull-dog, so serviceable in catching beeves, and the mastiff that guards the house. In Cuba the well known blood-hound, and in other countries the fleet grey-hound — here the generous New- foundland dog, and there the valuable shepherd. Moreover, apparently scattered abroad over the habitable world, are that numerous class called curs — which, as the commonalty, thicken over the land, even of our country; and whose ser- vices seem to be more demonstrated in the assis- tance they give man in consuming his bread, and in the act of diminishing the amount of his fleece in the destruction of flocks of sheep! Every dog seems to be serviceable but the cur —and, as an aristocracy among these animals, THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 93 all, except curs, very sparingly exist. Whether in fact these several breeds, so divergent in shape and appearance, be really the progeny, in the long run, cl the identical woll stocU, would be enough, I apprehend, il all were before his view, to stagger the philosophy of Buffon. But howsoever the matter of ancestry in this species of animated nature be settled by sa- vant, it is certain they have become adapted to multifarious purposes, and in some instan- ces to none at all; and men of any show of real capacity or wisdom would attend to their necessities in this particular, by making choice as companions, of such alone as their mode of life and stress of cultivation may w'arrant. To pioneers in a new country, where the merciless and cunning savage be next door neighbor; where vermin infest the forest and teem in the swamps; where wolves commit nightly depredations — dugs are wanted; and as poor people, such as compose our frontier inha- bitants, have neither the skill nor ability to select or import thebest breeds, they have to put up with the cur— which cannot fail, in the untried woods, of turning of service to the backwoods- man, in his remote solitudes. As the progress of civilization comes round, and a dense population with cleared fields begins to seek the natural resource that is found in the sheep, the necessity for numerous dogs becomes no longer an excuse; or they must adopt the Turkish mode at Constantinople, detaining them for a use similar to that in this country of the turkey-buzzard, wdih this considera- tion, that the Turks seldom or never export fleece, and in that warm climate never have oc- casion fo'r that article. In this climate, how- ever, where wool appears indispensable to our clothing, the sheep would always be an impor- tant farmingstock; and all that is requisiie at this time to ensure a plentiful supply ol warm garments, is for our farmers no longer to pur- sue the beaten track of the last century-^no longer to follow the custom of ancestors which had been justified to them by a necessity that we cannot plead— no longer to put a mill stone in one pannel to balance the corn or meal in the other — but to bring about, a course of innovation upon the long mooted but now unavailing meth- od peculiar to pioneers. in Mexico they have shepherd dogs, of a rare and valuable breed, introduced into that country from old Spain, where the finest merino and Saxony flocks feed in security, and from whence, formerly, the English woollen facto- ries were (if I recollect aright) supplied with the raw material. How easily attainable by way of Texas are such dogs to our farmers! Tney are always faithful servants fir guardians : not only repelling or slaying wolves, but every other dog that dare intrude within range of, or molest. sheep. Contingencies of which we must first gel rid, admonish us of the fact that operative laws would be necessary to teach the descendants of pioneers, that the same occasion environing their fathers no longer exists; and that newer modes of existence havingnowto be experiment-- ed, do not warrant the retainraent of such num- bers of dogs of little or no value, to the detri- ment of their more enterprizing neighbors. Men too often follow the same monotony of life, ge- neration after generation, until some action from elsewhere introduce them, (at first amid their reluctance,) to some more prosperous en- terprize. But I fear there is in Georgia, re- garding the existence of worthless dogs, and the introduction ol valuable sheep, a good deal of incipient opposition from those who see no good any where but in the soil, and who, always ex- pectant of emigration elsewhere, do not care for the prosperity of the State, or for anything connected with the virtues of economy, good husbandry, or of unremitting enterprise— things that elevated other States to affluence — and things only that can mend our prevailing pover- ty. Is it the fear of this class of people, speak- ing at the polls, that turn our legislators into men of trepidation or time servers, making each some— “ Hovering temporizer, that can With his eyes, discern both good and evil. Inclining to them both?” I hope not. I hope at least when a trial be m.ade in our State, of appealing to the Legisla- ture, something will be done in sympathy with the wishes of the best portion of our citizens — our men of enterprise, and, consecutively, of resources — of protecting their flocks from the rapacity of canine marauders, the undue breed- ing of which or allowing to breed, cannot but be reprehensible. Should this fail, and the in- terdictory tax amount not to a virtual inhibi- tion, then let some of our people endeavor the election of some eloquent man expressly for this design to the General Assembly — a man whose eloquent representation can persuade or influ- ence the enactment of the requiredlaw, and who having thus fulfilled the intent of leaving his privacy, can again retire, independent of the consequences of this proceeding, which, in a few years may have the hearty approval of p.'-eseni opponents. Very respectfully, your obed’l servant, J. J. Flournoy. Wellington, Jackson Co., Feb., 1846. From the North Carolina Farmer. Brief Outline of tlie American System of Wine Culture. Mr. Lemay : — The following is at your ser- vice for some useful agricultural purpose: 1. Cultivate the best kinds ol American grape fruit in your nursery. If not convenient to pro- cure well rooted plants, ihe layer.sof the Scup- pernong (as ihe.-e not succeedflsg otherwise or bv cuttings) and cuttings of other kinds or firm layers. 2. Plant the Scuppernong 20 feel and other kinds 10 apart. 3. Two or three years aftet take out the stakes and insert posts 10 feet each way elected at squared lops to hold the rail's to support the scaf- fold iu?. 4. Keep the ground under the scafl"olding clean, and incorporate all falling leaves and lit- ter. And keep off all straggling vines from in- tercepting the free passage of wind, team or men benealti the canopies. 5. When grapes ripe and mashed and juice expressed, strain the juice through several folds of a woollen blanket, and add at least 2 pounds per gallon of sugar or one-lourlii of good spi- rits, or sav one pound of sugar (if wanting a sweet wine.) Alter the lourth of spirits added, and my word lor it, you will have an excel ent, safe keeping wine. Or, if wishing a first rate family medicinal cordial, after juice strained, put one-third good spirits and 2 pounds of sugar to the gallon. You^s, &c., Sidney Weller. Brinkleyville, N. C., October 2^, 1845. From the Western Farmer and Gardener. Degeneracy of Plants. Both Van Mons and Knight believed in a degeneracy of plants; but the degeneracy ol the one system is not to be conlounded with that of the other. Knight believed that varieties had a regular period of existence; although, as in animal life, care and skill might make essential differ- ence in the longevity, yet they could in nowise avert the final catastrophe ; a time would come, sooner or later, at which the vegetable vitality would be expended, and the variety must perish by exhaustion — by running out. Van Mons believed that an improved variety tended to return to its normal state — to its wu'id type; and although he did not believe that it could be entirely restored to its wild state, it might go so far as to make it w'onhless lor use- ful purposes. Knight believed in absolute decay; Van Mons, in retrocession. According to Knight’s theory, varieties of fruit cease by the natural statute of limitoiion ; according to Van Mur.s, they only fall from grace. There can be no reasonable doubt that Van Mons held the trutn, and as little, that Knight’s speculations w'ere fallacious. Bad cultivation will cause anything to run out; no plant will perfect its tissues or fruit without the soil af- fords it elementary materials. The so-called exhausted varieties renew their youth when transplanted into soils suitable tor them. [From the Western Farmer and Gardener. ] Slitting the Bark of Trees. This is a practice much followed by fruit- raisers. Downing gives his sanction to it. Mr. Pell, (N. Y.) famous for his orchards, includes it as a part of nis system of orchard cultivation. Men talk of trees being and let out the bark on the same principle, we suppose, as mothers do the pantaloons of growing boys. We confess a prejudice against this letting out ol tucks in a tree’s clothes. We do not say there .nay not be cases of diseased trees in which, as a remedial process, this may not be wise; but we should as soon think of slitting the skin on a boy’s legs, or on calves or colts, as a regular part of a plan of rearing them, as to slash the bark ol sound and healthy trees. Bark-bound? — what is that! Does the in- side cf a tree grow faster than the outside? When the bark is slit is it looser around the whole trunk than it was before? When granu- lations have filled up this artificial channel, is not the bark just as tight as il was before? Mark, we do not say it is not a good practice; but only that we do not yet understand what the benefit is. Why, the bark bursts semetimes.” Yes, disease may thus affect it ; and when it does, cut, if nec£ssa,ry. “ Does it do any har.D ?” Perhaps not; neither would it to pul a wea- ther-cock in the top of every tree ; oi to bury a black cat under the roots, or to mark each tree with talismanic signs. Is it woiih u'hile to do a thing just because it does no barm ? “But when a tree is growing too fast does it not need it?” Yes, if it can be shown that the bark, albur- num, &c. do not increase alike. That excite- ment which increases the growth of one part of a tree, will, as a general fact, increase the growth of every other. In respect to the fruit and seed, doubtless, particular manures will develope special properties. But is there evi- dence that such a thing takes place in respect to the various tissues of the wood, bark, &c? ” But ifa tree be sluggish, and bound, will it not help it ? V\ hatever excites a more vigorous circula- ! lion, will be of advantage. Whether any ad- I vantage from the knile arises in this way, we j do not known But a good or a scouring I ol the whole body with sand, and then a pungent alkaline wash, (soft soap diluted with urine,) would, w’e think, be better for bark-bound trees, than the whole tribe of slits, vertical, horizontal, zig zag, 0.'- waved. But we should be glad to hear both the facts and reasonings on which the I practice is founded, irom some one who has ' implicit faith in its virtues. The Red Ant. — The little Red Ant, where he is disposed to make himself lamiliar, is one ofthe greatest of all pests that afflict a household. He is always on hand, in the sugar bowl, makes the preserve dish a sort ol every-day' lounge ; and it a choice pie is set away any' where for an extra occasion, this little fellow is sure to j find it out and keep guard there. Several modes are recommended to drive him away'. 0ns is to strew sage leaves about the cupboard ; ano- ther, to u-se cedar boughs instead, and a later one is to guard any particular treasure with common salt. For instance, says the New York Far.ner and Mechanic, if a sa.fe or cupboard is to be kept from them, set it from the walls, so as to touch nothing laterally; then place a cup contaiiiing salt under each leg, so as to oblige the animals to travel through it. They will not do \l.~ Frairie Farmer. 94 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVAl'OR. ilXaiTtl)lp Calendar. Altered from the Amercm Agriculturist's Almanac for 1814, and arranged to suit the Southern States. CA JFOift JUAK. [The following brief hints lo the farmer, planter and gardener, will be found to apply not only to the month under which they are arranged, but, owing lo diversity of seasons, climate and soils, they may frequently an- swer for other monihs. This precaution the consider- ate agriculturist will not fail to notice and apply in all cases where his j udgmeiit and experience may dictate.] In the north, this is me most active month for vegetation of the whole year. It becomes the farmer, therefore, to be stirring with the lark, and watch attentively the whole circle of his fields. Nothing should be neglected. The po- tatoes designed lor winter should now be plant- ed ; ruia-baga? sowm, and if any vacancies oc- cur in the sugar-beet and mangel-wurtzel beds, they should be filled up by transplanting. The ruta-baga is one of the most important crops of Great Britain, but though a useful one in this country, the uncertainty of it compared with many others, and its far inferior value to In- dian corn, to which our climate and soil is per- fectly adapted, render it but of secondary con- sequence. By many, who have tried each, the sugar-beet is much preferred for feeding stock; and it is certain ihe latter will keep longest without injury ; and in most pans of ihe coun- try, it is a much surer. crop, suffering less from drought, and vastly less from insects. Davy, w'ho analyzed them, gives for ruta-bagas, only 64 parts in 1,000 as nutritive matter, while he found 136 in mangel-wurtzel, and 146| in 1,000 in the sugar-beet. Where an early crop is ta- ken ofifthe land, ruta bagas, and even the com- mon white lurnep, may be raised lo advantage, as they may be sowm after any other crop, and s'illhave time to insure a good growth. Ground bones are a most excellent manure for every va- riety of lurnep. as is also lime. The last may be used to great advantage with almost all crops and soils w'hen notalready found in them in abun- dance. The plow, harrow, cultivator and hoe ought lo be plied constantly, the surface kept finely pulverized, and all weeds exterminated. It will frequently save a vast deal of labor to the farmer, to go through his fields of wheat, oats and barley, and pull up all the noxious in- truders, chess, cockle, charlock, red root, &c. The garden requires particular attention during this month. Keep liie weeds out and the useful vegetables in. As soon as the early yadishes, lettuce, &c., are taken off, supply Iheir places w'ith cabbage plants, turneps, late beans and peas. Leave no nook or corner Hnoccupied, and remember that it will require fifty times the labor to extirpate the progeny the following year, that is necessary for extirpating the w'eeds that are suffered to seed this. Weedy fields and hard sods intended for wheat in the fall ought to be plowed during this month, cross-plowed in Julv, and it necessary, again before sowing. Land intended for buckwheat, should be pre- pared, and though the old rule is to sow when the chestnut blossoms appear, it is a safer one, lo get it in somewhat earlier, especially on lands subject to early frost. Sheep ought to be carefully looked at after shearing. Cold, drenching rains are peculiarly hurtful lo them at such times. In 184-3, large numbers, in the State of New York, were chilled to death in June. Unless they have dry, well-sheltered fields to run in, and are Mout, well-fleshed and hardy, they should be driven home for the night at least, and provi led with a little grain, beans or roots. A supply of salt in troughs, where it is not liable to waste from rains, should at all times be within their reach. Always have tar at the bottom of the trough. This last pre- caution preven's worms in their heads, and has a general healthful effect. Some of the early grasses and clovers may be cut, and when put up add salt to the extent required by thesinimal while feeding: animals like salt with their food as well as man. Renew vour fields of broad- cast or drilled corn for soiling. Look well to your bees. Use some of the improved hives, so as to secure your share of the honey with- out endangering the lives of the bees. Watch the moths closely, and kill them as they are found; and when they have made their way into the hives, get at ihem there and extermi- nate them as soon as possible. Kitchen Garden. — The main point in this month is to keep the garden entirely clear of w-eeds, as their growth will now be very luxu- riant, and if thoroughly subdued, will be much more easily kept out the succeeding monihs. This is especially requisite with cucumbers and melons, around which keep the ground entirely clean and loose. Sweet potatoes cultivate well, and draw the earth up about the roots. Cabba- ges lor autumn and winter use can be planted out, and celery plants be transferred into trench- es. Peas may be sown for late crops, although they do noi bear so abundantly as those sown earlier in the season. Sow lettuce, and trans- plant every week, in order to insure a regular succession through the season. This should be done in moist weather, or if in dry weather, I late in the afternoon, accompanied with a plen- tiful watering. During the month sow kidney and other beans, for successiwe crops, and in the early part of the month a few Lima beans may be planted for a late supply. Turneps for late crops may also be sown in this month. Fruit Garden and Orchard, — During this month apple and other fruit trees can be trim- med. For this work, the present season is pre- ferable to the winter, for the reason, that the sap being in full circulation, will exude, and covering the wound, neal it in a short lime. On ihecontrary, in lij|: wintei, nosapean exude, and the branch will frequently be quite dead for some inches from the wound. A-ll useless limbs and upright shoots cut away, and let the tree be trimmed to an open head. In plum trees, all black knots formed by the insect must be taken off and burnt, or thedisease will spread rapidly. Cherries will not bear much pruning and it is generally best to allow them to grow naturally. Stone fruits frequently bear in such prolusion, that the tree is unable lo mature them all, and they are thus of comparatively small size. To remedy this, the cultivator should thin out the fruit by hand, leaving only a mod- erate crop; the nourishment of the tree being thus devoted to a limited quantity, will produce a larger and more delicious fruit. When trees are allowed to bear too abundantly, the great ef- forts made to mature all their fruit, will some- times exhaust them to such a degree as to in- ducediseases, from which it will often take them several years to recover. During this month, insects will f equenlly attack fruit trees in great numbers. For some of these, as the slugs and others of the same nature, a sprinkling of ashes or lime is the most immediately destructive. For the aphis and smaher insects of the sam.e habits, a solution of whale-oil soap, ap- plied with a syringe, is the most efficacious. Caterpillars can be destroyed while they are yet in small clusters, by means of burning sul- phur. Flower Garden and Pleasure Grounds,— VX&wt. out in the borders perennial and autumnal her- baceous plants, which have been sown in seed beds. This should be done near evening, and always accompanied with watering, unless the weather be moist or wet. Box edging can still be trimmed during moist weather, as also hedg- es of privet, hawthorn, &c., although for these latter, earlier in the season would have been preferable. The turf in the pleasure grounds and lawns keep well mowed; the oltener this is done, the more rich and velvety appearance it will assume. The gravel walKs and carriage drives keep cleaned, and free Irom weeds and grass throughout the summer. It is in this month that the numerous wild flowers ol our fields and woods abound in the greatest beauty and luxuriance; many of these are exceedingly beautiful, and well wmrthy ol cultivation in the private garden. The lobelia cardinalis, which abounds in the swamps, is one of the most splendid of these, and with ma- ny others has been transferred to our owm gar- I den with entire success. To insure their liv- ing, a portion of the natural soil should be transplanted with the roots, and a moist day, or late in the afternoon, selected for the purpose. Apply frequent watering for some days alter. There are lew who have not admired these gems, which so thickly cover Nature’s carpet; and when they can be so easily transferred to the parterre, neither the botanist nor amateur should be willing to deprive himselfof socheap- ly purchased a pleasure. In case ol drought it would be advisable to make frequent use of water in the flower borders, and also in the strawberry beds, by w'hich this fruit will be ena- bled more fully lo develop itself, and the plants produce a more abundant crop. Plantation. — Warm weather will now have commenced in earnest, and it is a ^'merciful man loho is merciful to his beast.” Call all hands at noon, and after having fed and curried all the working animals, let them be allowed to rest I until 3 o’clock; for they can do as much work 1 in the remainder of the day as though they were at work the whole lime. By the first of this month the cultivation of a greater portion of the plant and ratioon cane will have been completed. Continue to plow among the cane in old land until July, but not too deep, for there will be danger of hurting the roots. Keep cotton and tobacco clean — stirring the earih often; this not only keeps the weeds down but greatly assists it in resisting drought. The cotton will require the hoes to be passing through, so as to clear away grass and weeds left by the plow. Dra'v earth lightly around the plant, but leave no ridges as thrown by the plow; for there will be less surface exposed to the sun’s rays. Early corn will be forward enough to give the last plowing, which should be just before the time that the tassel makes its appearance. Plant peas between the corn as directed last month. The grain crop not yet harvested now claims attention. Afte.r oats are cut and slacked, it would be a great benefit to the field and stock, to plow in all stubble and sow down with peas, at the rale of a half bushel to an acre and even more. The first planting of sweet potatoes will now require the last working. Lay the vines on the ridges, and start the shovel plows to run three or more furrows between them. Draw the earth with hoes to the top of the ridges, and be careful the ends of the vine are not covered. Continue to plant out drawings of the vine all this month, whenever the weather is suitable. The vines make the best seed, and may be plant- ed as follow's : Cut them about a foot long; have a hole made in the ridge with a dibble ; then either with a stick with a notch cut in one end, or with the finger, thrust down a vine or two doubled; press the earth well around, leav- ing an inch or two out of the earth. For win- ter’s used fresh potatoes, procure the long red variety, and plant in rich low ground. They are great yielders and ripen fully in a southern climate, and consequently prove a much better variety than at the north. They will make a good crop if planted by the middle of this month. Clip hopsfordrying, and evergreens if they are much growm, but not otherwise, as the heat will be liable to dry them too much. Begin to sow carrots in drills, to facilitate the weeding of them. Sow endive for fall crop, and black run- ner beans. Soon after sowing w’aler and shade the drills if necessary, until they have come up and are strong enough to bear the heat of the snu. Organic Improvement of Domestic Aiii- mals« Sheep and other animals were subdued and domesticated, long before their biped captors and masters w'ere able to keep a record of their doings for the benefit ol their posterity. Hence we know little of the original stock from wfl.ich our domestic animals have descended, and less of the early treatment they received, at the hands of our own progenitors. Nor is this in- THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 95 formation important, ft concerns us mainly to understand how a change of food, temperature, and ol all surrounding circumstances, will either impiove or deteriorate the organic struc- ture and natural functions, which translorm fur the practical larmer his cultivated plants, their seeds and roots, into wool, beet, pork, milk, lard, butter and cheese. That there is a wide difference in the results obtained, by the opera- tion of this living machinery in different ani- mals, no ol cerving man can doubt. Of two cows of equal weight, and consuming equal quantities precisely alike, one will elaborate for its owner 18 quarts of milk in 24 hours, while the other can form but 9 quarts in the same length of time. A pig, whose organiza- tion apparently is nearly perfect, will elaborate from a given amount of raw material, twice as much flesh and fat, as another whose respiratory and assimilating machinery are very defective. Exnerience and science alike demonstrate the truth of the remark that it takes 50 per cent, more food to produce a given amount of mus- cular strength and power of locomotion in one horse or ox, than is required in another. Ani- mals that had a common parentage ten genera- tions back, now possess not only widely differ- eat forms, but organic and constitutional pecu- liarities, of great impor'lance to those that may become rich or poor, according to the well or ill management of iheir herds and flocks. Emi- nent success alone attend skill in the breeding and keepingof domestic animals. This valua- ble skill is acquired by close observation, and studying the uniform laws of nature that go- vern the growth, maturity, and decay of organic beings. The most important and material changes in the development ol the organs of animals, and in the function ofeach organ, are made during the period that elapses from the first formation of the embryo, to the maturity ol each living complex structure. “As the twig is bent the tree’s inclined.” The plasticity of young animals and plants, and the extreme changes that may be wrought in their forms and habits are truly wonderful. The human brain itself can be moulded in in- fancy into any shape to suit the whim or taste of a “flat-heaa” or a “round-head” Indian. JMor is there a single mental or physical function in the human system, that may not be either im- proved or impaired by the good and bad influences which are bro^ught about to bear upon it. The science of physiology is a noble science. It enables cultivated reason to trace results — the products of animal life, such as flesh, fat, milk and wool, — back to their known causes and elements. I can hardly expect to give you an outline of the organization and woi kings of this com- plex vital machinery. There are, however, a fe V cardinal points in this matter, which I will endeavor to make clear and intelligible. One is, that no animal or plant can possibly trans- mute one simple elementary substance into an- other. If a hen can be fed on food quite desti- tute of lime, the organ of her system cannot form an egg-shell ; so if a child, call or colt be kept on food that lacks phosphate of lime, its bones will be soft and cartilaginous. No other minerals can be changed to lime and phosphorus. Animal fat is a compound made up of carbon, hydrogen and oxygen ; and no other simple ele- ments can possibly make it. Lean meat and wool contain the same elements, with the addi- tion of nitrogen, sulphur, and several other earthly ingredients in minute quantities. Knowing that no animal can create anew one particle of matter, and that each compound product has its peculiar consiitnent elements ; knowing also how much of those elements is contained in any article of food, we can judge of its fitness or unfitness to produce either bone, muscle, fat, milk, wool, or any other animal pro- duct. In other words, we can wisely adapt our means to our ends we have in view. Suppose a farmer had 100 hens in his poultry yard, and he desired them to lay as many and as perfect eggs as possible. Would it be an un- reasonable prescription to say to him that “you must feed them lioerally on food which contains ] nut only lime, but all the elements of the con- | tents of an egg-shell in a concentrated form?” — I Western Cuh.tvator. | Good advice to Farmers. Consider your calling the most elevated and important; never be ashamed, nor afraid of the old hat or the working close apron. Put off no business lor to morrow that can be done to-day. ] As soon as the spring opens and the frost is out of the ground, put your fences in order. Piant no more ground than you can well ma- nure and cultivate to advantage. Never hire a man to do a piece of work which you can do yourself. Every day has its appropriate duties— attend to them in succession. Keep no more stock than you can keep in good order, and that of the best kind. Never “run in debt” without a reasonable probability of paying at the time agreed. I Remember that economy and industry are the two great pillars of the farmer’s prosperity. Take some good family newspaper, and pay for it in advance. Also an agricultural paper. Never carry your notes in your pocket-book, for the.desk or trunk is a more appropriate place. Keep them on fi,eand in order, to be found j when wanted, i Never buy any thing at auction because the i article is goingcheap, unlessyou have use for it. | Keep a place lor your tools, and your tools in their places. Instead of spending a rainy day idle, repair whatever wants mending, or post your accounts. [ By driving your business before, and not per- ^ milting your business to drive you, you will ave opportunities to indulge in the luxury of h ell applied leisure. Never trust your money in the hands of that man w'ho will put his own at hazard. When interest or debt becomes due, pay it at the lime, whether }'Our creditor wants it or not. Never ask him to “wait till next week,” but pay it. Never insult him by saying “you do not want it.” Punctuality is a ke}' to every ' man’s chest. i By constant temperance, habitual moderate | exercise, and strict honesty, you will avoid the fees of the lawyer and the sheriff, gain a good report, and probably add to your present exis- tence years of active life. When a friend calls to see you, treat him with the utmost complaisance, but if important business calls your attention, politely excuse yourself. Should you think of building a house, be not in a hurry, but first have every material on the spot, and have your cellar as large as the frame. Keep a memorandum book — enter all notes, whether received or given — all moneys received | or paid out— all expenses— and all circumstan- | ces of importance. | In December reckon and settle with all those.! with R'hom you have accounts— pay your shop i bills and your mechanics, if not promptly done | at the time. j On the first of January reckon with yourself, | and reckon honestly — biing into view all debts j and credits, notes and accounts, i^scertain to! what amount your expenses were the last year, j and the loss and gain— make out a fair statement : and enter the whole in a book for the purpose. Having arrived at this important knowledge, you w'ill imitate the prudent traveller who al- ways keeps in view w'here he is next to move. You W’ill now look forward and calculate in what w'ay you shall best meet and prosecute the business of the ensuing season. And lastly, when the frost of winter .shall arrest your out-door labors, and the chilling blast shall storm your dwelling, let your fireside be for yourself and your wife, and vour children, the happiest spot on earth; and’ let ihe long evenings, as well as the short days, be appro- priated to the mutual preparations for that “ eter- nal spring,” which sooner or later shall open in all its freshness to those who have “ done justly, loved mercy, and walked humbly with God.” Importance of the Farmer. Itis too much the habit of inconsiderate young men to think lightly of a farmer’s life, and to prefer some more easy sedentary occupation, with the fallacious idea of appearing genteel in the eyes of the wt.rld. Official employment, a city life, large whi'kers, white and delicate hands, with a display of gaudy jewelry and costly attire, seem to be prevailing objects with these languishing youths whose vanity prompts them to believe that they are the most brilliant meteors ol fashion ; on whom the fair will glad- ly besiowtheirsmiles. The prevalence of these absurdities is an injury to society, and has done its lull share in contributing to the embarss- ment.; of the country. Man sprung from the earth, is supported by its products, and returns to its bosom again.— What then can be mure appropriate tl;an to de- vote all his faculties to its improvement ? Itis the farmer’s toil that preserves his health and vigor, gives strength and elasticity to his spirits, de- velopes more fully his mental energies, and makes him in reality one ol the noblest ol God’s creation — a real substantial man, vigorous in body as in mind. Though manual labor is too olten held in light estimation, there is dignity in all itsapplicatious, whendirected by intelligence to some uselul purpose. To cultivate the soil is an interesting pursuit ; to increase its products a profitable study; it exalts the mind, which wh ilst quietly contemplating the result of its oc- cupation, is lifted up with thankfulness to that Being who has ordained thatourlaborshail be so richly rewarded. The enlightened farmer is an ornament to so- ciety ; his path is open to prosperity, wealth and reputation, and he will always retain hissteady value. To fill the place to which he isjustly entitled, he should be well bred; it is the true test of excellence. What can be more worthy of respect than the venerable parents of a well bred family; their true worth cannot be overes- timated ; they have done their duty, and in the proud contemplation of a hardy and virtuous progeny’-, their earthly enjoyments are per- fect. How inferior is the value of the pompous ig- noramus, linked to some proud dame, and puff- ed up by his wealth and imaginary importance. He is never satisfied, but always craving for something beyond his reach ; for homage which is never paid; for respect which is never ac- corded. ■ When stiffly seamd in his gaudy equip- age he imagines himself a superior being, and glories in his arrogance and pride. He mingles in the fashionable throng; his finery and show attract the giddy gaze, and gives food for reflec- tion to the sensible and sedate, but he has no claim to the praise of good breedinz; his sons grow up to be dandies and coxcombs, and his daughters to be coquettes and prudes. Behold them in the streets! they are the laughing stock of all. Pursue them to the draw'ing room ; their self-approbation is the only suppoit for their imagined superiority Follow them to the g.'-ave; but few tears are shed to their memo- ry, and their mother earth covers them with shame, for the bad example Ihey have left to posterity. Mark the contrast of good and bad breeding, and the comparison will hold good throughout the animal creation. It is the noble faculty of reason, tvhich gives to man his worth, power and dominion, and it is by its aid, that he has produced the most won- derful physical developments in those aniraahs which are most necessary for his use ; improve- ments which alone place the farmer amongst the greatest benefactors of mankind. Through his perseverance, his ingenuity and his labor in pro- moting good breeding in the atiimals necessary for his subsistence,- and in bringing them to the highest state of perfection, the public welfare is subserved, and the farmer deserves to be regar- ded by all reflecting men, as one of the most impoiiant links in the chain ol huirian society, and the main pillar of the social edifice. Albany, N. Y.,1846. Wm. H. SoTHiM. 96 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR Back Volumes of the Southern Cultivator. The Work complete from its commencement. n3=- Volumes I., II and III. of the “Southern Cultivator,” can be supplied to all who may desire the work from its commencement, at the subscription price— One Dollar each volume The back numbers of the present volume are sent to all new Subscribers. COUTEWTS OF THIS HUMBER. ORIGINAL. Agricultural Society, Taladega County page 92 Agriculture- -Horseley’s Wine and Nursery.. . ” 91 Americati Plowing ” 88 Books for a Farmers’ Library ” 89 Bermuda Grass ” 91 Drought— .Short Crop— Fei tilizing Deposit- Analysis ” 91 Dogs, an article on ” 92 Figs ” 88 Grain Crop, the ” 88 Morgan Horses ” 88 Meteorological Journal ” 96 Mutton ” 89 Public Property, protect ” 89 Plowing, conversation on ” 90 Right Spirit, more of the ” 92 Right Spirit, the ” 88,90 _ Squash Crop, the- -measures ” 91" Southern Independence ” 88 SELECTED. Agricultural Society of South Carolina, pro- ceedings of ” 84 Agricultural Society of Chatham, Bryan and Effingham Counties ” 86 Agricultural Association of Georgia ” 86 Calendar for June ” 94 Degeneracy ot Plants ” 93 Domestic Animals, organic i mprovemenl of, . ” 94 Farmer, importance of the ” 95 Farmers, good ad vice to ” 95 Guinea Grass, Corn, &c ” 64 Marl- Letter addressed to the Society of Jeffer- son Coutity, Georgia, by J. H. Hammond... ” 81 Root Crops for Stock ” 86 Red Ants ” 93 Rural manners in England I ” 87 Rice Cake.s, to make ” 87 Slitting the Bar k of Trees ” 93 Sunflower Seed ” 87 To prevent Lamps from Smoking ” 90 Wine Culture--Brief Outline of American.. ” 93 SMUT MACHI.VES. rpo MlLLr OWNERS.— Just receiv- -i- ed a fe w SJntii Machines, a superior artic .e, lor sale by HOPKINS & HARDMAN. my26-dw&Clt QTRAW CUTTERS AND CORN SHELLERS — A first rate article of Green and Hoveys’ make, just received and for sale by my26-dvv&Cl HOPKINS & HARDMAN. Lime \ lime \ — The undersigned keeps constantly an hand, and is prepared to deli er at any of the depots upon the State anl Georgia Rail Roads, fresh nnslaked lime of a su perior quality. WM. SPENCER BaOWN, Kingston, Cass Co., Jan. 15, 1846. NEW YORK AGRICULTUiSAL. WAREHOUSE* Having Taken the commodious Store, No 187 Water-street, the subscriber is now opening the Largest and most complete assortment of Agricultural Implements of all kinds, ever yet offered in this market. Most of these are of new and highly improved pattern, warrant- ed to be made of the best materials, put together iti the strongest manner, of a very superior finish, and offer- ed at the lowest cash prices. seeds for the farmer. Such as Improved Winter and Spring Wheat, Rye, Barley, Oats, Corn, Beans, Peas, Rutabaga, Turnip, Cabbage, Beet, Carrot, Parsnip, Clover and Grass- seeds, improved varieties of Potatoes. WIRE-CLOTHS AND SIEVES. Different kinds and sizes constantly on hand, FERTILIZERS. Peruvian and African Gnano, Poudrette, Bonedust, Lime, Plaster of Pans, &:c. FRUIT AND ORN.aMENTAL TREES AND SHRUBS. Oiders taken for these, and executed from a choice of the best Nurseries, Gardens, and Corservatories ill the United States. HORSES, CATTLE, SHEEP, SWINE AND POULTRY. Orders executed for slock of all kinds, to the best advantage The subscriber requests samples sent to him of any new or i m proved Implements, Seeds, &c., &c., which, if found valuable, extra pains will be taken to bring them before the public. A. B. ALLEN, 2 18? Water-street, New York. •-fS OO s ^ ■& e te; _ S 1-3 CO ^ -a TO CO 8= 1-3 1 & N— N 0 SS 0 k3 0 0 •§ ;§ 33 ( Rain tn I inches. m a . 6 ^ i ^ ^ 0^ ^ 6 ^ a Sun rise |w. 1 ne.3 e. 1 ne.i 0 ne.4 swl nwl n. 1 n. 2 swl n. 1 ne.3 ne.5 sw4 w. 2 ne.l se.l e. 7 w. 6 SW3 w. 2 w. 2 n. 2 se. 2 0 e. 2 swl II tCQOCOtDlCOOt't'00»C)OOWOODOO-»f’OOiCDl.'5COOC;0 i 0 S ^ w'S i-'^©Orr5eiOOttO'^OOlftOO000>WOi-4t0OOTt«O- d 2 •• S § S ~ ; cc G 3 Days Mo. I 'Rain .in inches. . '''' 0 1 0 e-s f-< 1 0 0 0 * * ^ II ■^s gd CO l> M -H CO «£i'^rf5CO,^i-iiD<©t-.'^}-co«jv5^0»cjOL'3C01iOa>O0>CJOO--.0)OOOOOuo'«?*o©rox— «r‘VTrCO 0 s'' s ^ . «5««-9*O-»«b~C0ty;20i;;*C0<55«03^0i0jg5t^C25;O00®OO*^Ot;;.<;0O(X) s 3 d . Days Mo. 1 Course, 1 of wind. Ill I'i Sun rise ne.2 nw2 n. 1 n. I nwl .s. 1 SW2 nwl ne,2 ne.2 ne.2 ne,3 sw4 w. 5 w. 2 w. 3 n. 1 w. 1 w. 1 0 n. 1 ne.3 ne.4 ne.2 sw3 w. 4 W. 2 w. 3 .swl ne.2 ne.4 Tot’ |4 CO ci. 1 ^ 1 bD 5 Sun rise. ©©®io©©Tr«©Oi-'0©©i>o®.-(COo©xo©.io©x©coc^X!roio— >coo»tN-v*w<®®b-©© ©©coincoc»tMC^c^coe- 2 3d day af- ter ch’ge. II l9 |u bl il 2d day af- ferch'ge. 9-15 10 CO 0? 1st day af- ter ch’ge. ® 10 X Day of change. 1 1 . do 200 “ 1,003 “ 103 “ 10.7 Do. do 300 “ , 1,318 '• 207 Ibs 17.7 1843, Acre not marled 403 lbs Do. marled 100 bush. . 654 “ 161 lbs 32.6 Do. do 200 “ , 759 “ 266 53.9 Do. do .300 “ . 841 » 348 “ 70. 1844. RESTED. 1845. Acre not marled..,.. 324 Ibs Do. marled 100 bush. . 43 1 “ 157 lbs 43. 4 Do. do 200 “ 534 “ S60 •* 80.2 Da. do 300 “ . 642 “ 318 “ 98. EXPERIMENT NO. 2— ?andy Land. Less More Corn* than than Per 1842 un marl* unmarl- cent. , ed acre. ed acre. Acre not marled.... 17 bus — Do. marled 100 bush. 21 “ 4 bus 23.5 Do. do 200 “ 21 “ 4 “ 23.5 Do. do 300 “ 13A^‘ IX a 8,3 1813. .S’d cot Acre not marled.... 351 lbs Do. marled 100 bush. 451 “ 90 Ibs 24.9 Do. do 200 38t “ 23 “ 6.3 Do. do 300 “ 173 “ 183 103.6 1844. RE.-^TED. * 1845. Acre not marled.... 230 “ Do. marled 100 bush. 317 “ 88 » 37.7 Do. do 200 *• •311 “ 71 “ 30.8 D.s. do 300 “ 159 “ 71 44.6 The first thing that will strike you on looking at this table, will be, that the crops have regu- larly and excessively diminished, from the time the land was marled. It might be concluded that I had ruined my land by marling. Such I will candidly own would have been my own conclusion, if fortunately I had not kept these unmarled acres to test the success of my opera- tions. Disastrous as have been the three last seasons in this section of country, I would not have believed it possible that there could have been such a falling off’ from seasons alone, and I should have abandoned marl, in spite of the experience of the rest of the world, as injurious at least to my soil. Buigreac as has been the de- crease of production on all the acres, it has been far greatest on the unmarled ones. That of the oihers, has comparatively steadily in- creased, except the 200 and 300 bushel acres in No. "2, both too heavily marled, but both reco- vering again under the rest of i84l. In No. 1, the acre with 100 bushels has increased from 30 per cent, below, to 48.4 per cent, above the un- marled one, making an actual comparative in- crease of 78.4 pe? cent. The acre with 200 bushels, has in the same w'ay increased 90 9 per cent. Both these acres are decidedly inferior to the other two in No. 1, and have, I doubt not, produced this year double what they would have done without mari. The other two acres in No. 1, are a pretty fair test tf'^he influence ol marl, being as nearly equal in quality as could have been selected. The sandy land in time and with proper management, will, I am certain, exhibit results fully as favorable as the mulatto land. It was too far exhausted when marled. 1 did not reserve test acres on any other fields, but I feel sure that they have deri- ved equal advantage from the marl, in proof of which I could state many facts to one present on the spot, which it would be tedious to men- tion and explain fully in this letter. I will only state one: The uninarled acre in No, 1 is one of the best acres I plant. In 1842, it yielded 1,111 ibs. The average of my whole crop that year was 666 lbs. per acre. The last year, the same acre, after a rest, produced 324 lbs. The ave- rage of my crop was 391 lbs. per acre. Thus, the yield of the uamarled acre, was in one in- stance 66.8 percent, above, and in the other, 20.6 percent, below the general average — making a difference of 87.4 per cent, in favor of the marl- ed lands. Let me add that in 1842 the uninari- ed acre in No. 2 produced 8.8 per cent, less than the average of the crop. In 1843 it fell to 37. G per cent., and in 1845 to 70 per cent, below the general average. It these facts may be assum- ed as data, on which to ba.se a calculation, had the last year been as favorable in all respects as 1842, the average of my cotton crop must have ’oeen over 1200 lbs. ot seed cotton per acre, and ot my corn crop over 28 bushels per acre. This, however, is only a paper calculation, and 1842 was a fine crop year. Time will revs.al the truth. I cannot give you a better evidence of the firmness of my faith in the virtue of marl, than to state, that notwithstanding the discourage- ments of the last three extraordinary seasons, ! have at great expense, brought up from Shell Bluff, within four years, over 300,000 bushels, carted it out, and spread it over about 2,300 acres ot land; and am at this moment as ac- tively engaged at it as ever. Nor do I look fo.-ward to a period when I expect to cease using it to a considerable extent every year, ei- ther on fresh lands, or in increasing the dose on those already marled. It would be leading you into error, however, to leave you to suppose that I rely solely on the marl to improve my lands. Rest, in connection with it, is indispensable, and manure becomes far more beneficial. 1 have, accordinely, by opening more land, and reducing my planting, enabled myselt to rest, annually one-third of my fields. And I have already hauled out and mixed together, for the coming crop, 96,000 bushels of muck, and 48,- 000 bushels of manure from stables and stable yards, hog and ox pens, &c., having yet about 20,000 bushels more to carry out before plant- ing. 1 shall not only endeavor to increase this amount ol manure every year hereafter, but al- so, by clearing and reducing the land in culti- vation, to rest, as nearly as may be requisite, each field, every other year. Indeed, the ma- nagement of land, after it is marled, is of the utmost consequence to the efficiency and profit of marl. Though lime is itself a portion of the food of plants, and therefore a manure, this is perhaps the very least ol its virtues. Its in- direct operations are far more important. It is the srand agent that prepares for the crop near- ly ail the food which the earth furnishes. It is THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. aasiii^ 100 the purveyor-general — no — the /armer must fill that ofiice: it is the "chef de cuisine" that selects the ingredients, mixes and seasons almost eve- ry dish to suit the delicate appetite ol the grow- ing plant. It is from the materials placed in the soil by nature, or the industrious husband- man, fhat this skillful artist draws the rich re- pasts it furnishes ; and it could no more furnish them without these materials, than your cook could make your soup without joints and spi- ces, The larder of the marl must then be amply supplied. The means of doing it are rest and manure. The great gain to the far- mer is, that having once engaged in his service this powerful, untiring, and almost universal agent, he may safety exert himself to the utmost ot his ability to supply it with everything ne- cessary toxarry on its important operations. Seizing on whatever is valuable, it preserves it from waste — combining with the utmost gene- rosity the wisest economy, it not only yields to the plant all it requires, but stimulates it to ask more, while it is inaccessible to demands from all other quarteis. There is no fancy in this — theory and experi- ment unite to prove it true. And 1 trust that no great length ot time will elapse befoi’e* marl shall have written its own eulogy in indelible characters over all the broad fields of your county. Permit me to conclude this letter, for the great length of which 1 owe you an apology, by returning my acknowledgments lor the ho- nor you have done me in electing mean hono- rary member of your Society, and by wishing each member of it the utmost success in his agricultural pursuits. I am, very respectfully, your ob’t serv’t, J. H. Hammond, Hamilton Raiford, Esq., Corresponding Secretary of the Agricultuial Society of Jefferson County, Geo. From the American Agriculturist. Prepared Manures aud ttieir Elfiects on Crops. The substance of the following remarks was lately delivered at the meeting ot the American Agricultural Association in New York, by R, L;Pell. Mr. Pell rose and said: By analysis it is known that all cereal grains, cruciferous and le- guminous plants, trees and shrubs, require in the soil the same chemical substances, but in different quantities. These are eleven, viz : potash, soda, lime, magnesia, alumina, oxide of iron, oxide of magnesia, silica, sulphuric acid, phosphoric acid, and chlorine. If one be absent, the soil will not grow any cultivated plant. Hence analysis of soils is necessary lora proper and economical application of ma- nure, In a barren soil one necessary ingredi- ent alone might be absent. If then, ten ingre- dients be added and the eleventh kept back, the soil is still barren. Hence, the reason why so much of New York will not grow wheat, and yet will grow other grain: the requisite quanti- ty of some one or more chemical ingredients ne- cessary for wheat is absent, but in sufficient quantity for rye, &c. When, at last, cultivated plants cease to grow, the five-finger vine ap- pears, as it requires still less of them. In such a stage it is not rare that an expense of S3 per acre will enable the soil to produce 30 bushels ot wheat. I produced 78| bushels of wheai on a piece of worn-out ground, by fifty cents’ worth of two ingredients. Like produces like ; and hence if straw or wheat be given to the ground it will produce wheat ; indeed, wheat may be grown on a pane of glass, if the seed be covered with wheat straw in a decomposing state. Hence the farmer may sell the grain but not the straw. The farmer who sells straw be- comes poor; he who buys it grows rich. I apply straw to the cattle yard ; it absorbs the liquid excrement, and -rots^ What is long or partly unrotted I apply to hoed crops; what is fine I mix with the eleven requisites and ap- ply as a top dressing. It may be advisable to apply the straw to the ground and plow it in B'bea uttfoued. To grow grains, give the soil straw ol its kind; for potatoes, their vines; grapes, their vines; to apples, their branches- and so of all. The droppings of cattle are the best manure to grow grasses, as they feed on grass; those of horses fed on grain for the growth ot cereals. Onions are grown year af- ter year, by only returning the tops to the ground. In Virginia, had the refuse of the to- bacco plant been returned to the soil, she would not now be barren. The bad farmer is injured by the vicinity of well manured land, as ma- nure has an affiniiy for oxygen, hydrogen, am- monia, &c., floating in the air, and attiacts them to the provident farmer’s land. Formerly, I applied composts of various things, and had wonderlul results; I dared not omit any one, as I knew not which had produ- ced the result. Now, science by analysis shows what is necessary. By these composts, I grew a squash to weigh 201 pounds, the heaviest on record ; and a cabbage to weigh 44 pounds. By it I grew wheat to weigh 64 pounds, rye 60 lbs., oats 44i lbs. When Sprengel made known his analysis, showing that eleven substances are ne- cessary to all good soils, I found that my com- post by chance had them all, and twenty other enriching ingredients. Previous to 1840, my orchards bore only eve* ry other year. Since then I make them bear every year; and this year, a bad one for fruit, found my manured trees full, and those not ma- nured barren. The drought of this year was fatal to fruit; yet my manured trees had abun- dant moisture’ and were fruitful. I prefer the manure of decayed vegetable matter to the ex- crement of cattle, as the material that makes and supports fhe animal has been extracted, and the excrement is not so rich on that account. If the vegetable matter be rotted and its ammo- nia fixed by charcoaldust, all the chemical sub- stances are present. Thus, rotted ‘vegetable matter is more beneficial than the dung of cat- tle, quantity and quality alike. A most valuable manure is the liquid remain- ing after the boiling of bones. It is very of- fensive unless disinfected. When hot it is not offensive, but becomes so when cold. It is a jelly when cold. By the application of char coal dust to the hot liquid, the jelly when cold is not offensive. In this state it may be made in- to compost with other substances, in that condi- tion it is a most valuable manure. At present, large amounts of the liquid are thrown into the rivers, I prevailed upon a grinder of bones to save his liquid by charcoal, and he now sells what formerly he hired carried away. I have used it with greac advantage, both on arable and meadow land. Charcoal is one of the most valuable ma- nures. It is the most powerful absorbent known. It takes from the atmosphere oxygen, hydrogen, nitrogen, ammonia, &c., and holds them while the weather is dry. During rain it absorbs 80 percent, of water, and releases the gas to descend to the earih to fertilize it. When the weather becomes dry it parts with the wa- ter, and absorbs from the air the gases again. This it continues almost perpetually, and it is nearly indestructible. When applied to the earti), the trees, plants and grasses are found to have it adhering to their roots ready to im- part gases and moisture as wanted. Trees packed in it have remained green lor 80 days, while others without it have died in like cir- cumstances. Hams and salt meals are preserv- ed perfectly when packed in it. I preserved ap- ples in perfect condition for one year in it. If spread over compost heaps, barn yards, stable floor, in privies, it absorbs the ammonia, pre- vents offensive smells, fixes the volatile gases, and thus makes a valuable compost. Ashes applied to sandy soils are valuable, and on some soils leached are as good as un- leached. I have known land too poor to grow 8 bushels ©f corn, made to produce 45 bushels by ashes alone; and they are more valuable on a sandy soil than any other manure except marly clay. They enable the sandy soil to retain its moisture— agreat point. They are used to great advantage on Long Island and in New Jersey, They stimulate growth as does plaster. Sown broad-cast on grass, the effect is perceptible at a great distance. They yield the first year on san- dy soils in grass and will pay the expense of ap- plying 40 bushels to the acre. They give to the soil silicate of potash, which is needed to form stems. Ashes have two actions on soils, viz: chemi- cally by alkali they neutralize acids ; and me- chanically by rendering sandy lands more tena- cious. Muck is made valuable by them, when mixed in compost; the acid ot the muck is de- stroyed by the alkali, and fermentation follows. Lime has been used by me to great advan- tage. I prefer oj'ster shell lime, as it contains no magnesia, which most stone lime does. I think oyster shell lime has a tendency to lessen in growth the stem and leaves, and increase the fruit and seeds. I put on barren or worn-out land 300 bushels of oyster shell lime, and it grew wheat to a weight ol 64 pounds per bu- shel ; with the wheat I sowed one bushel ot clo- ver seed and hall a bushel of timothy seed per acre, and the next year cut two and a hall tons, and the second year three tons ol hay per acre. 1 have found it of great advantage in potatoe culture; the potatoes do not rot in the ground, while neighboring unlimed ones all do. They are mealy and fine, and do not rot after gather- ing, and have been free of rot in dry, wet and average seasons. I think it desiroy? the fungus or insect, if either be the cause ol rot. Bone dust I have used and find it most valua- ble, and advise its use, especially on soils long cultivated, destitute of phosphate ot lime; it is the most efficacious manure that can be used on an exhausted soil, but will do better on dry cal- careous soil than on such as contain alumina. It should be mixed with earth to ferment before spreading. There should be used from 12 to 20 bushels to the acre. It seems best on turnips. In compost it is valuable, as it yields phos- phates largely. It is said that in England, where on lands it had been applied 20 years be- fore, its effect could be seen to a yard. I trust ihe exportation of bones from our country will soon cease. 1 have used guano successfully and unsuc- cessfully, Mixed with earth and applied to plants in close contact, it was injurious; ap- plied in weak solution to grass land and green- house plant.s, its effect was wonderful. My experience shows that its method ot use will de- termine its value. In composts 1 have found it very effective. Night soil is one of the most valuable ma- nures. In this country as well as in England, great prejudice prevails against its use in agri- culture or gardening. For ages it has been used in Asia, and particularly' in China. In France, Belgium, Bohemia, Saxony, all the German Confederacy, and Sweden, its destruc- tion or waste is prohibited by law. In England and America it is thrown into the rivers to be- foul them, and the fish which devour it are eat- en, instead of vegetables grown by it. As ma- nure, six loads of it have been lound to produce 650 bushels per acre of potatoes, while, on the same giound, 120 loads of horse manure yield- ed only 480 bushels. In conclusion, 1 have to remark, that the main stay of the farmer is his barn yard manure. Yet, this varies in quality, according to the ma- terial of which it is made, and the manner of making. Thus the droppings of cattle led on straw and turnips, are tar less valuable than those of cattle fed on hay and oil cake ; and it is economy to feed hay and oil cake rather than straw and turnips. So in manuring ; that which is leached by rains and volatilized by the sun, is less valuable than the unleached and unsunned. But this is too extensive a subject to lake up, and is so well understood by good farmers that it is unnecessary to say more on the subject. Draining low lands will contribute to promote health and profit. Generally speaking, our wet and marshy lands are the richest in organic matters, and become the most profitable to the owner, when thoroughly drained. — Buel's Far. THE SOU THERN CULTIVATOR. 101 From iheAmerican Agriculturist. Necessity of a Knowledge of Chemical Principles to a Parmer, e ID it ID h t tt It will be my object, ia the few brief remarks I intend to make in this paper, to illustrate, by some familiar examples, the absolute necessity of a knowledge of the principles of chemistry, to every one who expects to carry on the opera- tions 01 the farm, or even domestic affairs suc- cessfully. ffeai is one of the great agents of nature in effecting herchanges and modifying her res ults. What heat is, whether matter, or some effect or result of matter, is yet unknown. Great heat is always attended with light, and it is probable that, in all its degrees, it is inseparable from elec.ricity, and perhaps is identical with it. But it is my present object simply to show, by some practicable examples of every day occur- rence, some of the laws by which it acts. Heat expands, with some slight exceptions, all the objects into which it enters. Thus, a cold hand is shrivelled; but warmed, it is more plump and full. Every one knows that a boot or shoe that is too tight for summer use, can be comfortably worn in the cold of winter. An ordinary metallic pendulum that keeps correct time in summer, by its contraction, will beat too quick, and consequently produce fast time in winter, An iron bolt, when fastened while hot, will contiact on becoming cold, and close up a seam, which the power of man with the lever and screw, could not effect. The blacksmith sets his iron on the wagon wheels while red hot, and immediately cooling it, he sinks it sometimes half an inch on every side in the wood. The common Ihermorneter is another illustration of this principle. Fluids partake largely of this expansibility by heat. But its effects are more strikingly il- lustrated in air or gases, than in any other sub- stances. The particles of matter of which these are composed, are more easily separated and kept asunder, and they feel the influence of heat in a wonderful degree. A cubic inch of water when converted into steam occupies 1700 times its original space, even when nearly of the same temperature. The principle on which all steam engines are propelled, is solely that of the expansive power of water and vapor by the application of heat. Thus, the heat yielded by a handful of wood, passing through a hall inch boiler into water, and then expanded into steam, will produce an effect that the combined strength of 100 horses could not accomplish. Hear produces nearly all the changes of wea- ther, by the rarefaction (or expansion)'of the air, and the consequent currents of that fluid which necessarily follow ; for as the heated air becomes necessarily lighter by expansion, and rises, heavier air rushes in, frequently from an immense distance, to supply its place, and hence storms and sometimes hurricanes, whose vio- lence is proportionate to their cause; and so if the air suddenly loses its heat, the neighboring warmer air harries to supply the partial va- cuum. Heat (another form of electricity perhaps, or in all cases associated with it,) is also the great agent of vegetable life, giving direction and ef- fect to the moisture and other elements of vege- tables, when the embryo plumules and cotyle- dons burst from the germ ; nor is its vivifying influence withheld for a moment from the grow- ing plant, till the entire reproduction is accom- plished, and the seed is fully matured which is to perpetuate other generations through the whole course of time. The most striking exceptions to the expan- sive effects of heat, are in clay, and water be- low a certain temperature. The former con- tracts through the highest known temperature that can be given to it; and a thermometer for furnaces, called, from the name of its inventor, Weagwood, has been constructed from this ma- terial, which is not injured by the most intense heat known. Water continues to contract till it reaches a temperature of 39® Farenheit, when, by a merciful exception to the general law, it begins to expand, and continues till it reaches 32®, the freezing point, when it con- geals. This keeps the cold water on the surface till it freezes, and this change of the liquid into a solid slill farther diminishes the densittq thus keeping the whole body of water in lakes and rivers beneath, in a condition to minister both support to its inhabitants, and allow the sur- plus water to pass off towards the ocean. The admission and retention of heat in bo- dies, is much affected by their substance and surface. A dense body will receive and retain more heat than such as are light and porous. A rough surface imbibes heat much quicker than a smooth one, when exposed to the rays of the sun or a fire ; and when at a higher tempe- rature than the surrounding atmosphere, parts with its surplus heat more readily than such as are smooth. The color of bodies has much to do with receiving and repelling heat, and re- taining or parting with it. A black surface, when exposed to a high temperature, soon be- comes hot, while such as are white, require a much longer time, under similar exposure, to reach the same temperature. Many substances of nearly equal density conduct heat with much greater facility than others. Let us consider, lor a moment, some beautiful examples of the application of these laws. Animals and birds inhabiting the arctic re- gions, where the cold is intense, are not only covered with thick fur and down, both of which are the best known conductors of heat, but on the approach of winter most of these change to a white color, which of all others is the worst conductor. During a great portion ofc an arctic winter, there is absolutely no sun. and for the remaining portion but a mere glimmering of its rays. All the warmth of living things in that region, therefore, is generated within the covering of fur or feathers, by the combination of the carbon of the blood derived from their food, and the oxygen of the air inhaled into the lungs, and all of which heat is most economical- ly husbanded for the comfort and preservation of the living being. The warm blooded animals that live in the Arctic ocean, w'hales, porpoises, seals, walrus- es, &c., are not less protected than those on land, though in a different manner. Fur orf'ea- thers, if constantly immersed ia water, would, after a time, admit it next the body, when a ra- pid lowering of its temperature would take place. Almighty wisdom has guarded the ani- mals which live in that element in a manner totally different, yet equally effectual with such as live in the air. They have a smooth, naked skin, or sometimes covered with a thin hair, which is no impediment to their rapid passage through the water; and underneath is a thick covering of fat, which, though vastly denser than fur or feathers, is nearly equal in its non-conducting properties. So, too, in our own climate, the hog, which is the only animal not sufficiently protected against the rigors of winter by an external covering, takes care to supply this deficiency effectually, if allowed to indulge his gormandizing propensities, by load- ing the exterior of his carcass, immediately un- der his skin, with a thick coating of fat. . The temperature of the human being has to be provided lor, through the extremes of winter and summer, by external clothing, though in ex- treme hot weather, a portion of this excessive heat is carried off by perspiration, which in- volves another beautiful principle of chemis- try, that we have not time at present to illus- trate. Black is the warmest clothing when ex- posed to the sun’s rays, and the coolest when deprived of them ; wAifc is directly the reverse. Consequently, there is no more unsuitable color for clothing, where temperature alone is regard- ed, either for winter or summer, than black, and none more proper than while. The effect of black is scniewhat obviated by using white li- nen and under-clothes. Black soils are more productive than such as are light colored, when in other respects they are equally charged with the elements of vege- table nutrition. They rapidly absorb heat when exposed to the rays of the sun, and as rapidly cool when they are withdrawn. Both of the.se effects are highly beneficial to vegetation. The heat which the soil acquires during the day, stimulates the action of the roots and growth of the plants; and the rapid cooling of the surface causes the dew with which the air is charged to be deposited early, and in large quantities, dur- ing the evening. Some gardeners use white sand on the top of the soils, “ because,” as they say, “ it is so heating.” Had they a knowledge of some of the first principles of chemistry, they would at once see the absurdity of the practice. Were the sand black, or of a dark color, the practice would be commendable, as it would conduct the rays to the roots of the plants, which its white color reflecls. The sand is highly use- ful when mixed with many soils, but is objec- tionable when placed on the surface. Pure sand is frequently hotter than dark earth in si- milar situations; but it is because it is drier and a non-conductor, and retains what heat is imparted to it, while the evaporation of the moisture, and heat-conducting properties of the dark soils, carry off the heat, A pure white or very light colored earth can never be fertile. Very luxuriant vegetables are always darlc co- lored when growing, and their color helps their growth in two ways — and for the same reason that dark soils do, viz: by conducting the heat into the plant w’hile the sun is up, and again conducting it off when down, by which there is a rapid and plentiful deposit of dew upon it. White buildings reflect the sun’s rays, while darker colors absorb them; consequently, those which are white are vastly more durable than such as are very dark. It would be more eco- nomical to use white for all buildings, fences, tools, &c,, used about a farm; even carts and sleighs and carriages would last much longer by substituting draborlight colors, lor the black or dark brown usually adopted. When black is used tor carriages, its bad effects are in a con- siderable degree prevented by the use of varnish, thus leaving a smooth polished surface, which reflects much of the heat. When not exposed to the direct rays of the sun. of course, there is no difference between this and other colors. The philosophy of placing plants that require much heat on the south side of white walls, is obvious. They reflect the rays of the son upon the plants and soil covering the roots, thus af- fording them a double supply of heat. The white exterior of the wall arrests and sends back the rays that fall upon it, precisely as the amalgam, or quicksilver, on the back of a look- ing glass arrests and sends back those which would otherwise be transmitted through it. A kettle or pot covered with soot, has the greatest advantage for absorbing heat, and when expo- sed to a fire. It will raise a liquid contained in it to the boiling point in hall the timetbata bright poli'^hed surface would, if similarly exposed ; and it will cool, when withdrawn from the fire, in equally less time. The blackened tea-kettle is, therefore, the proper vessel to heat the water, and the white porcelain, or highly burnished metallic tea-pot, the proper one to maintain it hot for the longest time. R. L. A. Buffalo, February, 1845. from the Genesee Farmer. Science with Practice# Every farmer should adopt lor his motto, “ Knowledge with Labor,” or, “Science with Practice.” Knowledge without labor, and labor without knowledge are alike nearly worthless. But knowledge with labor, or science with prac- tice, gives to the honest cultivator of the earth the best possible chance to acquire both wealth and distinction as a successful agriculturist. Suppose a farmer wishes to sow land enough this fall to yield him, at the least possible ex- pense, 500 bushels of good wheat, free alike irom rust, smut scaA chess — what knowledge does he need to accomplish this object? Will any experienced farmer say that, to produce this amount of grain at the least cost in land and labor, no knowledge of the mineral constitu^ 102 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. ents of his soil, of vegeiable tnould and muck, of an excess oi moisture in the surface or sub- soil no knowledge of the substances that Na- ture ransl have to lorm a perfect wheat plant, and the condition in which those substances should be placed, isuselul to the wheat-grower'? ft is a sad sight to view forty acres of wheat all blackened and shrunken with rust, involving a loss of several hundred dollars, because the owner despised a knowledge of those simple laws of nature, which produce this parasite plant on the stems, leaves and heads of his wheat. It is painful to w'itness the toiling hus- bandman, harvesting fifteen bushels per acre, v.'here the amount of seed sown, the thorough tillage, and the hard work perlormed, would, by the aid of a little more knowledge of the na- ture and properties of wheat, have given him 30 bushels per ac/e. Thousand of farmers will reap this season an average of 30 bushels of corn on land that might grow 70 quite as v.'ell, with an equal amount of labor, it scientifically applied. Too manyfarmers unwittingly prepare their v;heat crop just right to be stricken, as it is termed, with rust. They fail to drain their wheat fields most thoroughly, and thereby in- duce the growth of sickly imperfect wheat plants, which fall an easy prey to parasites. They place their seed in soils that contain too much vegetable mould, and too little ot the al- kalies, potash and soda, too little ot the alka- line earths, lime and magnesia ; and too little phosphorus, sulphur and chlorine. The young wheat plant finds its nourishment as a lamb would find his, provided you give it a gill of its mother's milk a day, diluted in a pint ot bad wa- ter. There is but little study, little knowledge, and no science biought to bear on the feeding and raising of wheat plants in the State of N. York, which makes twelve million bushels of grain. The habits of this head-bearingplant, and what it needs to form a firm, bright, glassy stem, which Uredo — riis<, cannot grow upon: and what it needs to develope a long ear, well filled with plump kernels, are matters that pertain to wheat culture, most sadly overlooked by those that toil too much with their hands, and exercise too little those nobler faculties of reason and com- mon sense, which God has given them. Every rational being that happens to have a mouth to feed should study the science of trans- forming earth, air, and water into good, light, wheat bread. It is hardly possible that this knowledge will be utterly valueless to anyone during the whole period of his existence, what- ever his pursuit in life. As a general rule, it is cheaper to grow SO bu- shels of wheat on one acre than two, provided the use of the land was given to the cultivator. On an acre of well drained, well pulverized soil sown in wheat, scatter broadcast with a sho- vel, ten bushels of unleached a^hes, five of lime — (ten will be better if not too expensive,) two and a half of gypsum and an equal quanti- ty of common salt. If possible, the ground should be entirely free from the seeds of weeds, that nothing but clean wheat plants may grow. The above compound will serve to make bright flinty straw, so little subject, as every observing man knows, to be attacked by rust. Deep plow- ing, thorough harrowing and early sowing, con- stitute prominent features in the practice of those wheat growers, whom the editor has late- ly visited, because of their notable success in this branch of husbandry. In Scipio and the adjoining towns in Cayuga county, the good ef feels of underdraining wheat fields, have been most signal this season. During the last four weeks we have collected many interesting facts relating to rust, smut, &c., in connection with shale, sand stone, clayey and muck soils. These will be embodied in our official report to ' the N. Y. State Agricultural Society. Any gentleman that has made or shall make any discoveries relating to insects injurious to wheat, potatoes, apple, pear or peach trees — re- lating to the blight which is now injuring, if not destroying so many quince trees as well as others, will confer an especial favor by commu- nicating an account ot the same to the Corres- ponding Secretary of the State Society, for publication in the current volume of its trans- actions, or to be made public through some other medium. The study of Entomology^ — the science of in- sects— is becoming every year more and more important to the praciical.larmers of this State. The popular work of Harris should be in the family library of every cultivator of the soil. Let every young man that reads this article, be- gin at once the systematic study of his noble profession, if he designs to be a skilful and suc- cessful farmer. Let him unite knowledge with labor — science with practice — and the great Fountain ot all knowledge will reward him a thousand fold for his well directed efforts. Frcna the Farmers’ Library and Monthly Journal. The Amateur Gardener. There is no pursuit to which man is moreev- identlv led by the hand of his Creator than the cultivation of the ground. Our necessities ren- der the spade and the plow of the first impor- tance to every community, and a high or a low state of husbandry will always be the distinc- tive mark of a flourishing or a declining peo- ple. In an occupation whose principal capi- tal is industry, and whose object is thesupply ot our natural wants, the greater number ot human beings must always be engaged. With the va- riations of fashion, and the mutations of ages, other pursuits, once sedulously lollnwed, may become obsc^ete; but imaginaii m 'cannot con- ceive a state ot things in which the benignant stores of mother Earth will not be sought afier. The cultivation of the ground, in all its de- partments, manifests the high honor which is attached to human wisdom and skill by the great Lawgiver of the universe. Nature, wild and unattended, will produce luxuriantly the indige- nous fruits of the soil, but demands forethought and labor from her dependents, before she yields to them her most valuable riches. By observa- tion, man has improved upon the past, and bet- ter methods of cultivation are constantly disco- vered. Now, in this process of induction, or the Baconian method, as it is called in philoso- phy, the amateur gardener has employed efforts which have often been cr-swned with eminent success. Those who till hundreds ot acres as the means ot subsistence have seldom the cou- rage lo perform expeiiments on a large scale; but the owner of a small garden can do so with pleasure nnmingled with the fear of loss. Agri- cultu’'e has thus been indebted to the lovers of gardening for many discoveries, by which the wealth of nations has been increased, andevery amateur, however limited be his domain, may hope to add to the mass of knowledge If, by the application of manure in some novel man- ner, or by experiments in hybridizing or cross- ing, a vegetable may be made more productive, the application ot this principle may result in a grand national benefit.f 1 have a great re- spect for working gardeners of all grades, lor this reason, that they are the silent and modest precursors of those great changes by which the vegetable property of a country acqui-res an en- hanced value. Whether, therefore, you are de- lighting in an exclusive garden adjoining a countrir residence, or looking proudly on the beauties of a suburban retreat, 1 thus remind you of a very important argument to be employed in the defence of your pu'^suft. But I turn with pleasure -ft qsa the objects contemplated by tlie spade and the plow to flow- ers, those luxuries of Nature, given to re- ward man for his obedience to the law. “In the sweat of thyjjrow shaUthou eat thy bread.” These emlTlems' of purity and innocence are like the bright eyes which animated the knights of the tournament, calling forth their exertions and rewarding their conquests. The matchless charms of flowers force the attention of the most tasteless ot mortals, and win the hearts of the susceptible and refined. A child once said that the stars were little holes pricked in the fir- mament lo let Heaven’s glory through; a truth- ful idea though linked to a physical error. Ap- ply the same mode of reasoning to flowers, and what can they be but emanations of the beauty and happiness which reside in the mind of an Infinite Being? Their utility is less manifest than their subserviency to the wants of our in- tellectual nature, since they appeal almost ex- clusively to what is refined and sentimental and poetic in our constitution. Seed is produced without the accompaniment of a splendid co- rolla, with its wondrous sanctuary of stamens and pistils, as in the case of all kinds of corn, so that utility is rather associated with that which is plain and unattractive. But the most glorious structures ot the floral world belong lo plants which, in refeience to a man’s bodily wants, may be called useless. Trade would go on, and fortunes be made, if the world did not possess a Carnation, a Tulip, or a Rose ; and yet they are here, v inning our attention and rivet- ing the emotions of our hearts. Why are they here? Doubtless to recall us from pursuits carried on in reference to our lower nature, and to lead us to that which is gentle and good. The amateur gardener is thus evidently a re- spectful observer of the will ol Heaven, when he receives these gifts with ihanklulness, and bestows on them a portion of his intellectual worship. To think lightly of floriculture is al- most to disparage the wisdom of our Maker, who calls the attention ol the child and the man by enameling the earth with the rich colors and lovely forms of these uni versal favorites This is a second and convincing argument which you may use in refuting detractors, and justify your- self. You may no^succeed with the former, for some men are destitute ot ihepowerof appreciat- ing such reasonings as I have endeavored lo unfold. But be contented if you are able lo satisfy yourself that in loving your garden you are acting right. Hear what has been written of wild flowers, and be sure that such senti- ments are still more appropriate to those who have had so uething to do in the production of the beauty they admire : “ Oh chide not at the simple theme that wakes the minstrel’s lay ; Earth were less bright without the flowers that blos- som by the way ; He at whose words the universe her ancient might did yield, Hath taught proud man a lesson from the Lilies of (he field. 1 thank ihee, God ! for every boon thy hand in mercy showers, And ohj not least among thy gifts, the beautiful wild flowers !” From the Floridian. Potatoes. Mr. Edito.^: — It appears to me that if the farmers of Florida would turn their attention to the cultivation of Potatoes, they would realize a more general benefit from their farms than at present, for the climate of this State is more congenial lo the growth of that excellent article of husbandly, than of most other articles grown by the planters on our soil. It is a true max- im, perhaps, that an acre ol land that will yield 30 bushels of corn, will, with the same industry, yield to the planter 300 bushels ot potatoes. The corn sold at 50 cents per bushel, will bring himS15; the potatoes at 50 cents will make him S'150, and that price may always be had, if care should be taken of the potatoes till spring, and they are as easily pre.served as the seed till that time of year, and the cost of making them not more, nay, much less, lor draws and vines will do well to plant out till .June or even July. I have even known a farmer to plant an early field of corn, which was forward when laid by, say any time in June, and at the first season thereafter, to sefout in the centre, between the hills of corn, potatoe vines, and make a crop of small potatoes for his hogs when the corn is ga- th?red, which prepared his hogs lor fattening, and cost him much less to make his pork, than the usual way of neglect, or even growing peas for hogs. The potatoes are much the best arti- cle tor hogs, for peas often kill hogs, and pota- toes always agree well with thi m. THE SOl'THERN CULTIVATOR. 103 The former way of either making hills or large ridges tor potatoes, should be exploded ; and good farmers are finding it out, for the hill or the ridge only shed the water from the young plant and hinders its growth, makes it later and less productive in the end; whereas break- ing the land deep, (which is no trouble in the soil ot Florida, 3 throw three furrows together with a winged plow, and instead of pulling up the earth as usual to a sharp ridge or point, just strike the hoe on top till it is flat, just as the planters prepare for the ground nuts, and plant nearly level, the furrows on either side will pre- serve the plant from the spring rains, and by the time they are over, you may plow and hoe as you would other articles— corn or cotton. Perhaps twice over uiay be quite sufficient, and in the end you have a richer crop or harvest than in the old farming way, for the potatoesget much more the benefit ot the siiininer rains, (which in Florida are generally rather scarce,) than they ever get when planted in hills or high ridges. The beds for potatoes should never be more than from two to four inches above the le- vel of the common earth. Try it, my fellow-citizens, and you will find good results. Hermon Mercer. St. Andrews, April 20, 1846. From the American Agriculturist. A Chapter oii Apples* The great advantage of fruit raising to the farmer has been often commended through our columns. It is not our intention to enlarge upon its general merits at present, but to confine what we have to say to the subject of apples alone. The apple is, beyond all question, the king of fruits; as wheat and the potatoe are of grain and roots. In some one or more ot its varie- ties, it keeps throughout the three hundred and sixty-five days of the year; and long after the earliest june-eatingand sweet-bough, w’ith their glossy sides and fragrant odor, are offered in the market, the piles of smooth greenings and pippins, and rough golden coated russets, with all the firmness and substantial merits of vete- rans of ’76, are tempting the eye and olfactories of every beholder by their plump and but just matured perfections. It is to this quality of en- duringness, that much ot the merits of the ap- ple are due. But much more it may justly claim, in its luscious flavor and healthful influ- ences, and its peculiar adaptation to so large and varied uses. Besides the thousand-and-one varieties of dishes of which it forms the sole, principal, or a subordinate part in the economy of the skillful housewife, it contributes greatly towards the interest ot the farmer by the profits from its sale, and its use as food for his stock. The profit from feeding the surplus of an ex- tensive orchard of fine fruit -to stock (for fine fruit is as much better for animals as it is for their owners,) has become an item of careful estimate, since the nearly general abandonment of ifie wasteful, sottish system of cider-making. It was the rule, we believe, that 8 to 12 bushels of apples would make one barrel of cider, and 8 to 12 barrels of cider, one barrel of cider bran- dy. The former was made to the halves, while, perhaps, 2 gallons of tht; latter might be return- ed as a full equivalent for a barrel of the former. Two gallons of miserable liquid poison, under the name of eider brandy, was, within less than a generation since, the product of 8 to 12 bu- shels of apples! Let us see how the case stands by the touchstone of figures. Eight bu- shels ot good apples (and it is cheaper raising good apples than poor,) are worth in an average of seasons, 37i cents per bushel in the orchard, or S3 for the whole ; while the two gallons of brandy would be worth about the same price of whiskey, say 50 cents — difference in favor of selling the apples, or using them for some ap- propriate purpose, six to one. Verily, the pre- sent age has improved some in pocket, as well as morals. The value of apples, however, for feeding to stock, is not equal to that for selling, when= ever a good market is within reach. The early droppings from the trees should be Invariably fed to stock; as besides their general worthless- ness for other purposes, from their immaturity, they frequently contain worms, which their con- sumption by stock effectually destroys. The most economical way for providing for this is to allow swine to run at large in sufficient num- bers to consume all the first droppings. These, with the offal of the dairy, and a good clover pasture, with a trifle of meal, thoroughly sour- ed with the whey or slops, will put a good breed of hogs into fine condition, if kept out of Uie road, by the time peas, potatoes and corn are sufficiently matured to begin their fall breeding. If there should be any surplus of apples, be- yond what may be more profitably disposed of, these may be led to the fattening porkers, either raw or cooked, with certain advantage. The exact equivalent in grain or roots, for pork or beef making, has not been ascertained with suf- ficient accuracy to be here stated, but that thev stand high in fattening properties, is beyrnd a doubt; while the quality ot meat they produce, is of the highest order. Sheep may be substituted for swine in rang- ing through the orchard and picking up the dis- eased andimmatured fruit. They will not hurt store sheep either in flesh or fleece, but they are more particularly profitable for such as are in- tended for mutton, A run in the orchard is an excellent preparation for heavier feed at a later period iti the season, and richer or more highly flavored mutton cannot be produced than is af- forded from such as have this food continued to them, till ready for the shambles. Milch Cows thrive on them exceedingly, though they should never be allowed to run among the trees, from their injuring the limbs, and their liability to be choked in taking the ap- j pies from an elevated position. The milk from j cows so fed. is noted for its richness and deli- ! ciousness of flavor. For working cattle and ' such as are intended for beef, they are nearly as ' valuable. j Horses are also exceedingly fond of apples, j and few kinds of stock are more benefitted by their use. They are a lull substitute for grain, with hay, when not too hardly used, and it has been found from long experience and careful observation, that their health is better when so fed, their coat is smoolherand more glossy, and that they are equally spirited. The quality ot apples has much fo do wMth their value; though probably not more than that of roots and grain. Such kinds should be selected for feeding; if that be the object, which are, as a general rule, the most profitable lor sale; as they will be found to combine the best flavor w'ith the most substance. Sour apples have been proved fn’tn careful experiments to be equally nutritious for stock as sweet, but it ! must be remembered, that they soon set the teeth on edge, and cannot be continuously fed in con- siderable quantities, with advantage to the thrift of animals. Boiling wmuld remedy this objection, but it is more easily obviated by al- ternating sweet with sour; or if an orchard is to be set out or grafted, expresslj'^ in reference to this object, sweet apples may almost entirely predominate, Pov.llry comes into the long list of consum- ers of t.he apple orchard; and no less good does it do them, than the other tenants of the farm. Of apples, of a soft, delicate, delicious pulp, we have had more than a peck perday consum- ed by a small flock of hens and chickens. Tur- keys, ducks and geese are equally fond of them. Some prejudice has been created against the use of apples for stock, from the fact, that when a hungry cow happened to break into an or- chard and filled herself to repletion, a fever en- sued, and her milk dried up. The same rule would hold good against alfowing a horse a ra- tion of grain, because one Mddied from an un- stinted feed of corn. The true course is, to com- mence feeding in small quantities, and gradu- ally increase the allowance till put on full ra- tions. W hen the apple is fed to the larger animals, hay and grass should alw'ays accompany it: and when fed to hogs, fresh clover or grain should be added. When thus judiciously ma- naged, we doubt it the production of roots for stock feeding, will compare in economy, with that of raising apples lor a similar purpose. It is true that they are sometimes cut off by late frosts, and are not vegetables and grain equally liable to injury and disappointment ? In con- clusion, we can offer no better advice to our readers, than to urge them to plant as extensive orchards as they can manage to advantage, of the choicest fruits they can select, and whether intended as an investment of their money, as food for their families, or domestic animals, or as an inheritance for their heirs, they can make no more appropriate bestowment of their time and wealth. From the Genesee Farmer. Improvements In Agriculture. “The gre.'it truth that animal manures are nothing else than the ashes of the food produced from our field* consumed or burned in the bodies of men and animals’ has given the chief direction to all modern improve* raenisin agriculture.” — Liebig. The above remark deserves the profound con- sideration of every practical farmer. After an animal has attained his maturity, and adds no- thing to his weight in the course of a year, it is obvious that the matter which escapes from the body must be the same in quantity as that which enters it, A very notable portion of the food ot all warm-blooded animals passes out of the lungs in the form of air and vapor, during their ceaseless respiration night and day, j ust as wood passes oul of a chimney when burnt in a fire- place. The combustion of grass, hay and grain in the system of the cow, horse, or sheep, is not so complete as that of fire applied to the same substances in the open air. In the latter case, nearly all the combustible ingredients— carbon and hydrogen united wiih oxygen and nitrogen— are expelled into the atmosphere. In animal combustion, a larger portion of carbon, hydrogen, oxygen and nitrogen remain with the ashes contained in the food taken into the sto- mach, and voided with the solid and liquid ex- creiions. That portion of cultivated plants which es- capes into the air through the lungs of man and the domestic animals, growing plants can re- gain by their roots and leaves, and thus re-or- ganize into animal food. But the ease is differ- ent with the ashes or earthy portion ofafl plants. If these minerals are taken from the soil in crops and not faithfully restored, by leplacing on our cultivated fields all the salts contained in the ex- cretions of the human family and of domestic animals, the injury will be great. Nearly one third of all the food grown on the globe, is raised by the Chinese, For thousands of years this wonderful people have cultivated most successfully the bread-forming plant. For a long period their wheat fields have been fer- tilized almost exclusively with the ingredients of whest, derived from its combustion in the hu- man system. In other words, they manure their fields with night-soU alone. The manufacture of corn, wheat, barley, oats, hay, potatoes, pork, beef, butter, cheese, wool, can be reduced lo an exact science. The laws of chemical affinity, of vegetable and ani- mal vitality, are uniform and easy to be under- tood, so far as successful agriculture is con- cerned. One of these laws is, that no man nor vegetable can possibly make anything out of nothing. Another is, that one simple substance like carbon, cannot be transformed into another simple element like nitrogen. Clay cannot sup- ply the place of sand, nor sand of clay. Suppose you have the materials to produce fifty good crops in your now fertile soil: wheu those materials are worked up and sent to dis- tant parts, where will the largely increased po- pulation of the State go for food and clothing? Do you say to the West? But what right has the present generation to consume and destroy the fertility of God’s bountiful earth, to the se- rious iBjnry of those who are to succeed them ? ULjJ4a.LMgmuLuju^iiu*a<-.M“ THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 104 By every principle ol cotnition justice and philanthropy, we should augment the natural productiveness of the soil at least 4 per cent, per annum, or double its truit in 25 years. ®l)£ Soutljern (Hultiuntov. AUGUSTA, GA. VOt.. IV.. NO. T JClIiV, 1846. Roadside Trees. In no part of the U. States, except in New Jersey, have we seen anything like the state of things described in the, following extract from Mr. Loudon’s Arboretum. In that State, on Long Hill, there was, twenty years ago, an ave- nue of cherry trees of some miles in length. The trees grew by the road side, and every one passing took what he wanted, and no one ques- tioned his right to do so. The trees were very old when we saw them first, and we are under the impression that they were planted before the revolutionary war. They were, however, begin- ning to show the signs of having suffered from the spirit that, since the change ol our institu- tions from’colonial to National, has become so rife over the who'e country, and more especially over the Southern States — we mean that spirit that prompts people to destroy everything like trees, shrubbery and flowers , that does not be- long to themselves. Especially if the public should happen to own anything of the sort, in town orcountry, does it become an object of ei- ther plunder or destruction. We have seen a person in a public garden, the keeper being ab- sent, go to beating a choice shrub with his cane, and persevere until nothing but the naked stump was left. Another insisted on his right to take his dogs into a garden, because it was a public garden, to hunt rabbits. And, often, no sooner was the back of the keeper turned than the work of plunder began. Even in private gardens, in our towns, every tree or shrub, within reach from the street, frequently has its branches broken, and its whole form thus mutilated; so that now persons caring for such things carefully avoid planting so near the fence that it can be reached, anything of value, either for use or ornament. And as for planting ave- nues of fruit trees by the road-side, any one who would seriously propose such a thing would be laughed at as a fool. Nor is this spirit of Vandalism confined to the destruction of trees, shrubbery and flowers. If the public authorities shall set up mile posts on the public roads, they are destroyed or the fi- gures thereon are altered or effaced so as to make them useless. So too with finger boards at cross-roads ; no matter how carefully put up, they are soon either knocked down, or changed so as to mislead the traveller who shall depend on them. These things we have been assured were not so before the revolution : and it is a curious pro- blem yet to be solved, why they have become so under republican institutions. One thhrg is cer- tain, agriculturists suffer more from the preva- lence of such a spirit than any other class : — for beingin so large a majority they have it in their power to create a sound public opinion on this subect; and failing to do so, they have to bear the consequences in character, and in pocket especially. For with prudent men the value of real property is always seriously affected by the state of public opinion in the neighborhood on this very subject. No man, in his senses, will buy land in a neighborhood where rowdyism reigns supreme. To return to Mr. Loudon. In his Avboreium he says:— “On the continent, and more espe- cially in Germany and Switzerland, the cherry is much used as a roadside tree ; particularly in the northern parts of Germany, where the apple and pear will not thrive. In some countries the road passes for many miles together through an avenue of cherry trees. In Moravia, the road from Brunn to Olmutz, passes through such an avenue, extending upwards of sixty miles in length; and in the autumn of 1828, we travelled for several days through almost one continuous avenue of cherry tre 33, from Strasburg by a cir- cuitous route to Munich. These avenues in Germany are planted by the desire of the respec- tive governments, not only for shading the tra- veller, but in order that the poor pedestrian may obtain refreshment on his journey. All persons are allowed to partake of the cherries, on condi- tion of not injuring the trees ; but the main crop of the cherries when ripe, is gathered by the re- spective proprietors of the land on which it grows; and when these are anxious to preserve the fruit of any particular tree, it is, as it were, tabooed ; that is, a wisp of straw is tied in a conspicuous part to one of the branches, as vines by the road- sides in Prance, when the grapes are ripe, are protected by sprinkling a plant here and there, with a mixture of lime and water, which marks the leaves with conspicuous white blotches. — Every one who has travelled on the continent, in the fruit season, must have observed the respect that is paid to these appropriating marks; and there is something highly gratifying in this, and in the humane feeling displayed by the pfinces of the different countries, in causing the trees to be planted. It would indeed be lamentable if kind treatment did not produce a corresponding return.” Strawberry and Milk Trade of New York, On a late occasion, as many as 20,555 baskets of Strawberries were, in one day, brought down the North River to New York. Then there is a special train run over the Erie Rail Road every night during the strawberry season, which brings to the city, each trip, from 30 to 40,000 baskets. The National Intelligencer and the Baltimore Clipper furnish us with these statements. Then as to Milk — On the Erie Rail Road, the New York Tribune says, the freight of milk alone for one week amounted to over one thou- sand dollars, more than 200,000 quarts having been brought over the ifeid in that time to New York. We are careful to give our authority for these statements, for they may look, to some persons, very much like Munchausen stories. Turpentine. We have not the information necessary to ena- ble us t» answer the inquiries in the following letter. We will be very much obliged to any one who will sen I us an article on the subject for publication in the Cultivator. We are inclined to believe that any one who intends to engage in the business would do well to go to North Carolina and spend a few months in the turpentine district. He may thus gain a very thorough knowledge of the whole matter— particularly of those minute details which are seldom mentioned by writers, but the knowledge of which is nevertheless essential to success in undertaking any new business. In the meantime, we have the pleasure to in- form our friends that Mr. Skinner, Editor of the Farmers' Library, who has lately been through the turpentine regian of North Carolina, promises that he will, in an early number of his work, give a full account or the whole process and its re- sults. For the present he only states, that one hand is capable of attending to a "crop" of so many "boxes;" and many of them collect from 150 to 200 barrels of turpentine, worth, last autumn, upwards of $3 a barrel. It was said that one man, with his three hands, allowing them a small portion of the proceeds, had realised upwards of $4000. In relation to the future prospects of the tur- pentinebusinessin North Carolina, Mr. Skinner makes the following very curious statement: “ The reflections induced, in connection with the growth of this species of pine, are strange and important in a view of the distant future; as for instance : The wings of marine commerce of the whole world, it will be admitted, would be clipped if not entirely destroysd, but for the use of the product of this beautiful evergreen ; and yet from some mysterious operations of Nature, or the spread and influence of civilization of which com- merce is the great promoter, it would seem from present appearances, according to all I heard, that a stop has been put to the successions of its growth which has been going on for centuries. — The time is thus approaching, according to the opinionof judicious observers on the spot, when scarcely a vestige will remain of this valuable and majestic tree, where now it is so flourishing and abundant. Let me be understood. In the boyhood of men fifty years ago, it was a part of children’s play to bend down the young pine growth in the woods to ride upon. They were of that size, as common then, as the larger growth is now, and only of two, three, or four years’ growth, snd.abL.ut the size of a walking cane stripped of the bark, and about five, six, or seven feet high. That same generation is now as large as an Alderman’s leg; but here is the wonder ! There is none of that age or kind in preparation by Nature, as successoi's to the pre- sent stock in Carolina. It is rarely that one is to be found; and yet the seed (or mast as it is called,) is as abundant as ever, and vegetates as thickly as it ever did ; but it soon disappears. — After it is the size of wheat in November, little more ofit isever seen. The impression of those who have most closely noticed these facts per- sonally, is, that the present generation of pine will be the last that will be seen in North Carolina, perhaps forever." To the Editor of the CuUivaior ; Mr. James Camak; — Several of your sub- scribers in this neighborhood, are desirous of obtaining some information on the manufacture of turpentine — the manner of preparing it for market — the quantity that can be collected in one season by a hand — the expenses attending it — the average prices that it bears in the commer- cial cities — and any other facts connected there- with that can be procured. They have understood that making turpentine is at present a very lucrative business in North Carolina — far more so than the “raising” of our present staple commodity ; and they believe that THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 105 the advantages are greater in their section of the country than in the State just mentioned, for the reasons that the season is much longer — the weather hotter, and the trees larger, and thereby capable of lasting a longer time than when they are not so tall. Any information that yourself or any of your correspondents can yield will be very gratefully received by your friends in this quarter. Very respectfully, yourob’t serv’t, The Postmasteb. Oswichee, Russell Co., Ala. Improvement of the Soil. In the extremely exhausted condition of the soil in the Southern States, any suggestion rela- ting to its improvement is entitled to serious consideration. Even if such suggestion should appear, at first, to be unreasonable and extrava- gant, it should not, therefore, be rejected as wholly useless. It should be subjected to the test of practical experiment ; and even though re- sulting in failure, as to the main object, yet some truth may perhaps be got from the failure that may be of great use to the experimenter. In this connexion, Mr. Fanxin-q’s proposition may ap- pear extravagant at first, Yet he is a practical man ; and being at the head of the Agricultural College, near Nashville, Tenn., would not be likely to risk his character by proposing what is absurd. He asserts that “there is no problem in Arithmetic more clear than that, from any ani- mal properly managed, more manure can be made than will be required to make produce to support it.” Now, though we hold this proposition to be very questionable, notwithstanding its great clearness to Mr. Pannixs, yet we would not re- ject it without careful trial. Will not some one interested in Agriculture, set about making such trial at once 1 In justice to Mr. Fanxing, we insert the whole of his article : IMPROVEMENT OF SOIL— 3Y r. fanning. Time was, when most of the cultivated soil in the United States was rich j but that day has passed. In many of the States, the occupants of farms have worked their lands out of heart, and abandoned them for more advantageous positions in the “ far West.” Many others still cleave to the homes of their ancestors, with little other prospect than that of making a bare subsistence, and the great majority of American farmers ex- perience sad reverses from the annual deteriora- tion of their lands. Tennessee, w'hich is still the greatest corn-growing State in the Union, could once boast ofseventy-five and a hundred bushels of Indian corn to the acre. The question might be gravely asked, why have these changes occurred ! A bad system was at first adopted, and has been persisted in. Far- mers have had too much confidence in the soil, and paid too little attention to its wants. The great Buel’s motto was “ to improve the soil and the mind his idea might have been correct, but the order of the subjects should be changed. The improvement of the mind and the soil, is the true desideratum. The means to enrich the soil are numerous. Every cultivator is obliged to have at least a horse, a cow, a pig or two, and a few sheep ; and there is no problem in arithmetic more clear than that from any animal properly managed, more manure can be made than will be required, to make produce to support it. Suppose we try the pig first. We will give it the poorest food of the place. We will be at the expense of constructing him a good house, and preparing him a yard with litter. Feed him on refuse cabbage leaves, roots, scraps from the kitchen, &c., and in one year he will pay for his mansion, food and the labor of giving it to him, and furnish enough manure to produce ample food for two such pigs another year. If any one will try it, and plead disappointment, he may draw on me for three pigs. The cow, in addition to paying expenses by her milk, when housed and w’ell littered, xvill furnish an amount of manure that will, by its scientific application, give food for one if not two cows. The same may be predicated of all do- mestic animals. But, unfortunately, many far- mers loose the most valuable particles of manure by exposing it to the weather. After fermenta- tion, the residuum is little better than the like amount of chaff. The secret of improving the soil consists in knowing its wants and being able to supply them. The correct combinations ot the different properties of a soil must be studied. On some lands, clay will be useful ; on others, swamp mud will be found valuable, and on others, sand will answer the purpose. Draining is often ad- vantageous, and many plots may be irrigated to the great profit of the farmer. Few have studied the value of green crops, oats and rye in particu- lar. One crop of oats, consumed on the field, will enable the cultivator to reap double the a- mount the second year. The same may be af- firmed of rye. Soap-suds, wood ashes, and charcoal have all a tendency to improve soil. Another means of improvement is deep plowing — and the last, but perhaps not the least valuable, consists in com- pletely puherizing the land. — Natura-ist. The Crops. From the South Caroliniari and the Georgia Journal we copy articles on the prospect of the crops in South Carolina and Georgia. Some de- duction must be made from the estimates, so far as the wheat crop is concerned, in consequence of the ten days of wet weather, occurring in the midst of harvest. The injury to the wheal from this cause has been severe : From the South Carolinian, June 11. The Cbofs. — We write the words with satis- faction— the crops are fine — the seasons good, and plenty if not peace, at last blesses the exer- tions of the husbandman. The wheat crop promises to be the best ever grown in the South, and in South Carolina there will be harvested double the quantity ever produced in one year. This is the impulse which our planters required; anUvhat common sense should have dictated long since, the act of Providence has compelled them to adopt — producing as much grain as they consumed. The Oat crop will be good, and Rye and Barley never were betfer. Of the latter grain, fully seventy bushels to the acre have been grown by one farmer of our acquaintance — and we ourselves grew an admirable crop of the two- rowed northern variety, which was sown, with- out manure, on ordinary land, as late as the 10th of January. We regard this variety the best for soiling, as the leaves are much broader than the four-rowed kind usually cultivated amongst us. The feur-rowed barley will produce at least one third more grain than the former kind. Barley neatly cleaned, when ground or boiled, furnishes excellent food for horses and all kinds of stock. We consider four acres sowed in barley, properly manured, as valuable as sixteen acres of Indian Corn cultivated in the usual manner. Of the Corn crops we have flit ering accounts from all parts 0.' the State, and we hope that a season of bounty will place us even with the world at the end of the year, with the addition of experience, which though dearly bought, will be valuable to us for many an agricultural trial yet ahead. From the Georgia Journal, June Ifi. The Crops. — We have finer prospects before us for a good — nay a bountiful — crop year, than our farmers have seen for many, many years. The Wheat crop has turned out a bountiful one, not only in this section of the State, but through- out the who'e length and breadth of it, where wheat is grown. F.very person that we have seen and conversed with, tells us that his crop far exceeds all his previous calculations, and thai he has wheat to sell. For this section of Georgia — the Cotton belt — this is saying a great deal — more than was ever said befoie. In sections too where Wheat growing lor market is the main pursuit of our farmers, we learn that a most bountiful harvest has rewarded their labors, and that more wheat will be offered for sale this year, in Georgia, than has ever been offered before Purchasers therefore may expect to get flour at a reasonable rate. VVe must not omit to mention that the wheat grown this year is generally of a superior quality. The Corn crop looks very promising, the sea- sons have been generally good, and in our im- mediate neighborhood, latterly, we have had fine rains which have made the corn look remarkably promising. The Cotton crop does not look quite so promi- sing. From all that we can learn, it is rather backward for the middle of June, both in this, and other sections ol the State. Southern Cultivator—Opiiiion of the Press. The Publishers offer no apology to the reader for submitting to his consideration the following notice from the '' Southern Planter published at Richmond, Virginia, and deservedly ranking among the first Agricultural periodicals of the day. It was called forth, as the reader will per- ceive, by the announcement in the Cultivator, that it would be discontinued after the present volume, unless a more liberal support was ex- tended to it. The opinion of such a man as the accomplished editor of the Planter, is indeed to be prized highly, and we sincerely hope that no friend of the Southern Cultivator will fail to profit by its wholesome truths. Here it is. Read it ! “ Every community in this country has a right to do as they please, and are accountable to no individual for any course they may see fit to pur- sue; but then every individual has the right of expressing his opinion of such course, provided he does it in a polite and respectful manner. In the exercise of this right, we will venture to ex- press the opinion that no community has ever shown a greater want of wisdom than will the farmers of Georgia, if they suffer the youTHESN Cultivator to expire, for want of support. It is not our habit to lavish compliments on evsn our best friends, but, under the circumstances, it is but justice to say that this paper stands in the very first rank of the Agricultural press in this country. The refinement, the scholarship, and the ability of its editor entitle it to all the reputa- tion it enjoys abroad, and to fifty times the sup- port it gets at home. There isn’t a farmer in Virginia that would not, by subscribing to this paper, reap an hundred fold the valuv of his in- vestment. It is published at one dollar per an- num, and it will give us great pleasure to receive a.nd forward subscriptions for it.” Book Farming, In Indiana, as it is stated in a Western paper, there is a miller very extensively engaged in the manufacture of flour, who, in making his con- tracts for wheat, always gives more per bushel for it to a farmer who takes and reads an Agricul- tural paper, than to one who rejects the light and knowledge furnished by such publications. It is farther said, that from an effectual trial of the practice he finds it to be his interest to per- severe in it. A shrewd fellow is that same mil- ler. Cineiunati Egg Trade. The extent of this business is indeed 'surpris- ing. From the Cincinnati Gazette we gather the following particulars concerning it : The Annual city consumption is 1 ,913,33-3 dozen. Shipments from Cincinnati last year. 963,000 “ Total 2,176,333 dozen. Which is equal to 26,1 1-5,996 eggs, brought to the Citi- cinnati market in one year. The eggs consumed in the city, viz. 1,213,333 dozen, at 8 cents, comes to $97,066 64 Those exported, viz ; 10,700 bbls,, at 8.44^, is 90,361 50 Total annual amount of Egg Trade §167,428 14 Guano Poisonous. — The Dublin Farmers’ Gazette mentions the case of a man who lost his life by holding a corner of a guano bag in his month, by which a portion of the dust was drawn into his throat. 106 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVAl'OR (Original (Eommunications. Overseers. Ma. Camak I read with much interest the articles in your paper, so judiciously selected, in reference to the various improvements in pro- gress in the art of Agriculture. But there are some views of deep moment to the Planting In- terest of this section— the eastern part of Georgia and South Carolina — which I have not seen ex- actly expressed, and which, with your permission, I will suggest to our planters. Formerly, when lands were fresh and cotton high, planters had very little difficulty in getting along, and with the least industry and economy, accumulated property rapidly. A man had only to buy a plantation, put a bunch of hands on it, employ almost any one to oversee them, and he might go about his pleasure, hunt, horse-race, or go to Congress. Twenty centsapoundfor cotton cured all defects in management, and kept the sheriff at bay; but six cents a pound for cotton is quite another thing. The profits of agriculture have now taken rank with those of other occu- pations, and it requires as thorough management in every particular for a planter to make lawful interest on his investment as for a merchant, mechanic, manufacture), lawyer or doctor to do so— a momentous fact of which very few of them seem to be at all convinced. Merchants, me- chanics, lawyers, &c., require years of laborious training t. fit them for their callings, and so long as they pursue them, indefatigable industry, the strictest personal attention, and consummate skill are indisnensable to even reasonable success. If they are deficient in any of these particulars they fail at once. But any body thinks he can be a planter. In fact, Banks, whose officers scarcely know a jdowfrom a hoe, and individuals of all c’asses. equally ignorant, boldly undertake to grow corn and cotton, and expect to do it profitably. A stripling of 18 years of age who, it may be, has divided his time between the fox-chase and the plow, offers his services to conduct the business and is accepted. Such ad- venturers not only ruin themselves, but by add- ing, though at a cost fatal to themselves, to the amount of the crop, in j ure the whole planting in- terest. My object, however, is not to denounce them, but 10 speak of more serious evils which beset the best inlormed and most judicious cul- tivators of the soil. Small planters, who live on their planta- tions and manage themselves, even though not in the best manner in the world, may, with some comfort, accommodate themselves to the great change in the price of our staple. They can still provide their own h^ g and hominy, and aflord to buy sugar and coffee and other little necessaries. When they are skilful and industrious, read agri- cultural papers and books, and keep up with Ihe improvements of the age, they may make fair interest on their capital and accumulate by rigid economy, as those in other branches of business do. ' But what is to become of our large planters? That is the question — important to them, and vastly important to the country. In general, theycannct live on their plantations, because large plantations, even in healthy re- gions, are mote or less unhealthy, and can rarely be obtained but in the more sickly parts of the cou'itrv. F.ven when they can live within a few miles of their places and visit them every day, it is impossible for them to examine closely into every operation that is going on, to see every sick nesro in due season, to watch over the health of those that are well, to see their stock and work animals attended to, their wagons and gear and plantation implements keot in proper order and preserved, to give daily, and as is some- times required, hourly direc'ions about the work to be performed, and to inspect it afterwards in .due season to prevent the serious consequences ’'0^ not having it done as it should be. Ifone were^jre most skilful, the most industrious plan- ter in. the world, and with a constitution of iron, he cannot, unless he lives right on the spot, at- tend to- all these things, do the reading he mast do to le^m what he must learn of the progress of his s^^flnd conduct the improvements necessary to enable him to produce as much and sell as cheap as those with whom he has to compete, and make just interest on his capital, if he works a force of 30, 50. or 100 hands. The obvious sug- gestion is, let him get an overseer. There is the rub. He must trust all these things to agents.— Now, if he could get the best possible agents, he would at least have to pay them, and to this ex- tent would be at a disadvantage in comparison with the small planter who employs none. And let it not be supposed'it is a trifling one. Be- sides the money paid the overseer, his family, however large, is to be supported, his horse fed, with servants to wait on all. There are few overseers who do not consume wages and all the produce of 6 to 10 hands, thus absorbing at once 6 to 10 per cent of the labor, when there are even 100 hundred hands. Is this easily made up in these times, even when the overseer is a good manager and perfectly supplies the place of the owner? But where are such overseers to be found ? Can they be picked up at grog shops, muster fields, and political barbecues, where the young men destined to be the planters’ agents are trained to a sufficient opinion of their abilities, and especially to their vast privileges as “free, independent and equal citizens” of this republic, who are rot to stoop to be any “ man’s man,” or to do any man's business even when paid for it, unless allowed to do it after their own fashion? If such overseers are to be obtained, I do not, for one, know where to look for them. If there are any young men reared among us, destitute of capital, but of industrious, steady habits, and likely to make carefu', intelligent and energetic planters, they almost all of them seek the western country at an early age, where it is sup[iosed there is a better field for enterprise. The few of that sort who remain usually put so high an es- timate on their services that they are unattaina- ble, or, led by false notions of independence, seek other employments. The melancholy fact is that our region is nearly entirely destitute of even tolerably good overseers. And what is worse, they seem to be growing scarcer ev.ry year. In all other countries agents in whose qualifications ent re reliance m-ay be placed, are abundant, seek- ing employment in every branch of business, treading on one another’s heels and ever ready to fill a vacancy. In most occupations it is the case to some extent here. Ypung men are trained for clerkships, for superintendents in fac- tories, as master workmen in all trades, to be junior partners in all professions. But no one is brought up to be an overseer. Very few will take that employment who can get any other. — If, then, large planters are compelled to incur heavy expenses for managers, and if when ob- tained, the)’, as is usually the case, prove to be his greatest trouble insteadof his assistant, how, I ask, are they, at present prices, to sustain them- selves ? They cannot, for the most part, dis- pense with overseers, yet, with all that they can do, these agents mismanage, neglect and abuse their property, resist and thwart improvenients, refuse to follow, or if they pretsnd to follow di- rections, do it in such a way as to insure failure. 1 ask the question, how are they to sustain them- selves at present prices? It is one of the deepest moment ; I wish some one would answer it — I eannot. Being one of that class of planters my- self, and one who has thus far kept out of debt, I have come to the painful conclusion that, as things are, no one can plant largely in this region. If the price of cotton should rise — of which I see no hope, they may go on, otherwise they must sell out here and quit planiing or go west. They cannot, having to incur the expense of mana- gers, and with such managers as can be pro- cured among us, compete with the cotton planters of the west, or with their neighbors at home, owning small places and able to look after business themselves. The class of large planters must by one means or another pass away from our section. In the long run it may be better for the country that our lands should be cut up into small farms owned and cultivated by a race of sturdy yeomanry. But time must elapse before this change can be efiected,and in the meanwhile the most painful individual sufi'ering and the most serious losses to the community at large, must be endured. It is melancholy to think of these things; and if all that I have said be true, it may be asked. Why indicate evils for which no remedy is sug- gested, and anticipate inevitable sorrows? The question may be pertinent. But others may see remedies which I do not, and perhaps it is right and profitable also to state facts, deduce truths, and force reflection on them, however painful it may be. Agricola. South Carolina, June, 1846, Subsoil Plowing. Mr. Camak — If you can find room in the Cul- tivator for the enclosed letter, it will, I am con- fident, promote the “conscientious point” in Agriculture, which I find to be the main point. For, so soon as one planter can be induced to read Agricultural works, the impulse is given to mind, thence to matter, and the work is half done. This letter from VI. R. Ross, so well known as one of the best planters in South Alabama, to Dr. William Cunningham, likewise one of the most successful cotton planters in Monroe coun- ty, will have the effect of opening the eyes of their numerous acquaintances ; and of dispelling the prejudice that is so strong against book farm- ing. It will likewise bring into more general cir- culation the best agricultural paper now pub- lished—I mean the one best adapted for those be- ginning the business of reclaiming their worn out and tired soils — and if every intelligent sub- scriber to the Southern Cultivator would boldly speak the truth about it, and exert his in- fluence to extend its circulation, we should hear no more complaints of want of patronage. A Subscriber. Burntsorn^ May 15, 1846, Mr. William Cunningham — Dear Sir : Your favor of the 2d inst. is at hand, and in reply to your inquiry, I will say that 1 am a subscriber to the Albany Cnllivaler, published at Albany, N. Y., also the Southern Planter, published at Rich- mond, Va., and also the Southern Cultivator, published at Augusta, Ga. These I consider best calculated and suitable for a Cotton planter, because the people of Georgia seem, as it were by magic, to have aroused up from their lethar- gic state of insensibility to their true interest ; forming societies, holding meetings and making experiments, all of which are reported in the Southern Cultivator ; whether successful or not — also their modes of manuring and cultiva- ting—all of which T think very important. While I speak in favor of the Southern Culti- vator as best suited to a cotton planter, I must say, also, there is much useful information in the Albany Cultivator. Although they do nnt culti- vate Cotton, yet their mode of manuring and plowing I consider very important items in any cultivation. That of subsoiling I deem very im- portant Neither of the works cost over one dollar a year, but writing for one now you will get all the back numbers, beginning with January, for the year. Your region of coun- try has been in cultivation from the earliest set- tlement in the country, and has become, in a great degree exhausted. Large portions of the gasses in the surface soil have been taken up by the sun and air ; and a portion of the minerals from which the different plants receive a portion of nourishment has descended into the subsoil, which has become so close and compact from the frequent shallow plowings and treading of stock, that the roots of neither corn or coiton can penetrate to any depth, consequently must be de- prived of much of the original fertility ot the soil. In order to give room and space for the roots to penetiate in search of food, as well as to secure from the dry spells of weather that our climate is much subject to in the growing season, we must have recourse to subsoil plowing, at the time all are preparing our lands for a crop in winter or very early in the .spring. You will find it also of much advantage in preparing your land to break it fine, to pulverize it as much as possible. If I mistake not, your section of country is somewhat broken or rolling; this being the case, we are compelled to have recourse to guard drains or hill-side ditching, as also horizontal plowing. This, I consider of the utmost im- portance. This season I have put up all my cot- ton and corn beds with ten furrows, that is’ five surface furrows and five subsoil, in the same fur- rows, For the want of a subsoil plow’, I use the common scooter, following the surface plow in the same furrow. Should our friend McDonald be sojourning through the country this season and should visit this section of country, and you could make it convenient to come with him, you would see my mode of working, though I have but just com- menced, yet you might learn the beginning point. My plantation has been in cultivation from 1817 ; has been very much worn, the last sea- THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 107 son being the first y^ar that I cultivated it, yet I made 30 bushels of corn per acre, and an average of 800 lbs of cotton. I commenced 1st of Febru- ary, without a particle of manure. This season I have planted for 40 bushels of corn, per acre. The cotton I think will yield a heavy crop, pro- vided the little worm that penetrates and destroys the form or button, will let it alone. I have hauled this spring 2500 waggons and ox-cart loads of manure, besides 6000 bushels of cotton seed. I should be pleased to see you and give you all the information I may possess, though I am almost alone in this region in regard to my mode of working. The cry is. it is too much trouble, destroying the land by plowing so deep. Plow deep and break the land with a small plow and manure heavily is my motto. Very respectfully, yours, <^c. W. R. Ross. Havana, Green Co., Ala., April 12, 1846. Sweet Potatoes. Mb. Camak— I propose addressing you a se- ries of articles on different subjects, connected with agriculture and domestic economy, as lei- sure or opportunity may occur. Should my com- munication appear worthy of 'an insertion in your valuable periodical, veu will please publish "them; if not, dispose of them as you think pro- per The destruction of the sweet potatoe, especial- ly in our section of the country, has been as great, I suppose, as that of the Irish potatoe in Ireland, and though its effects are not so appalling, it is still a severe loss to all who have tailed in acorn crop. The old system of housing them, in which they are in a great degree exposed to the action of the air, and in many cases to the rain also, is very objectionable, and has doubtless contributed to increase the destruction alluded to. From my expe>'ienceand observation, I am induced to be- lieve that we cannot keep them in a sound and healthy state during the winter, unless we first place their, in a temperature lower than that at which they germinate, and then totally exclude air, light, and water; for these are the imme- diate agents employed in producing germina- tion and decomposition. The temperature also should be as near uniform as possible. Pota- toes, from ba ing bruised, and perhaps from a sudden change of temperature, arising from ex- posure to the cold air after th^y are dug, general- ly undergo a sweating and evaporating process, which they should be allowed to do before they are housed for the winter, as one condition of their keeping sound is that they be perfectly dry. Tills exudation and deposition of water, which is sometimes very great, must ar. se from incipient decomposition, produced by the causes just stated. Smoking the potatoe house has been recommended as a good remedy in such cases, though I cannot vouch for its efficacy. If the posi'ion wffiich I have assumed e true we should discard the old fashion of leaving an aperture at the top of the bank or stack for ad- mitting the air. Ali tuberous and bulbous roots, such as potatoes, turnips, onions, &c., being mostly composed of cellular tissue, should not be exposed to the light, as it generates vascular or fibrous tissue. For a similar reason, the air shou’d not be admitted, as it contains oxygen gas, the great cause of acidity and decom- position in all vegetable and animal bodies. The change of color and of cellular into vascular tissue, is often exhibited by the accidental expo- sure of a growing potatoe to the action of the light, ft immediately assumes a green color and a fibrous texture, similar to that of the vine. The acidifying and decomposingproperties of at- mospheric air, may be te ted in a usefil and simple experiment — ihe making of vinegar. The vessel containing the ingredients should be left open, and exposed to the constant action of the air, until acidity is produced; it should then be closed. The action of water is more equivocal. - When ccusfauf'y applied to inert matter, it acts as an atitiseptic, and, for aught 1 know, it may act in the same way, under like circumstances, upon a living root When potatoes are exposed to the alternate action of air and water, the lat- ter will generally cause gerrr inatioh or decom- position ; though sometimes it is perfectly in- nocuous. An excellent planter on the Congaree states that he has never suffered any inconveni- ence by housing his potatof s duri.ig a rainy sea- son. As a general rule, however, they should be kept diy,and the fluids especially, w'hich exude from the potatoes when in a heated condition, should not be suffered to accumulate in any quantity. I will conclude this article, Mr. Editor, by sta ting that the principles here advanced have been applied with admirable success in practice ; and, asfarees 1 have learned, ali who have adopted the system have been fully convinced of its su- perior merits in keeping the potatoe during the winter season in a sound and healthy condition. Very respectfully, yours, Carolinieneis. Fairfield District, Alay 20, 1846. Fattening Hogs. Mr, Camak: — I believe that I am under a promise to give you some account of my method of fattening pork. You will perceive that the plan pursued differsbut litilc from Mr. Farrar’s, and were it not for my promise, I should hard- ly trouble you with it at all. Mr. Farrar crushed his food before cooking it, which I doubt not is a good plan; but for those who have no means of cruEhing the food, this may come in as a sub- stitute. This may seem like an improper time to offer an article upon this subject, but I think oiheru ise, for turnip s enter largely into the ac count — they cannot be grown to advantage un- less the land is well prepared; and now is the time to prepare the land. Having tw'O boilers holding (together) ninety gallons, .set up in the usual way, in a brick fur nacc, my next object was to prepare vats or troughs, (I use the latter on the score of econo- my) in which to soak the corn before boiling The length of time necessary to soak the corn varies with the temperature of the weather, it must, however, be soaked until it is sour, after which it may be boiled soft in half the time re- quisite to boil hard corn. The experiment was made upon twenty-tw'o hogs, of ditlerent ages, from one to two years old. their daily allowance being about three bushels of this corn, with as many turnips (tops and all) as the cauldrons would hold at two boilings, i. e, 14 bushels of corn at each boiling (morning ar.d noon) and a filling up of turnips. The feeding troughs were prepared by splitting pine log? of any convenient length and burning out the flat sides to a suffi- cient depth. To prevent the hogs getting into the troughs, a small pole was firmly fastened over the centre of the trough lengthwise. These hogs were not closely confined, but were all fed together, and had the use of a lot containing an acre and a half. For variety, pumpkins, pota- toes, cabbage leaves, &c., were substituted for the turnips, makirg it an invariable rule to have the whole well cooked and r i.xed together with a pestle or some other convenient imple ment, adding a handfull of salt occasionally. — The turnips thus consumed weie grow n upon three-quarters ol an acre of land. Six weeks was the time allowed for fattening these hogs, and their average weight was 242^ pounds. — Before the adoption of this plan (with the same breed of hogs and about the same ag'’,) I have generally fed fattening hogs about eight weeks, with an additional daily allowance of corn, ot at least one iourth, and by reference to my book I find their average weight for several years has been about 225, 227, &c.; but once in ten years have they exceeded the weights of last season, and t’nen they were all two years old. Two of my neighbors tried the plan last season, and were well pleased with the result. My boilers and troughs, have made a similar saving in feed- ing work oxen, beef cattle, and milch cows, but I will not trespass further by giving you a de- tailed account of the same- As I always feel willing tocontributemy mite, so I doubt not other gerillemen will cheerfully communicate any information they possess, when called i pon to do so Now 1 am very much In wan t of a corn and cob crusher, and when I spend my money, 1 would like to receive an equivalent for it. I would, therefore, re- I spectfully request Mi. Farrar of Putnam county and Mai. Rose ci Tvleriwether county, to give us such an account of their crushers as they may' deem important or interesting. My object is to get an efficient, durable machine, and I make the request public that others may profit by the information I may receive. Mr. F. andMaj. K. are designated because they are the only persons within my kpov^ ledge, who have them, in use, though any information on the subject will be thankfully received, come from what quarter it may. These gentlemen will confer a favor by responding to this call. Let us know the costof yourcrusher? By whom are they built 7 What sort of gearing is best adapted to them? How much power do you employ to drive them — iw'o or four horses — what amount of work w ill they accomplish with such pow'er? W hat is your opinion of their durability, and can they easily be put out of repair ? Alter the trial you have given them, would you recommend their use to a man who wishes to practice true economy? _ And now', Mr Editor, indulge me with a ques- tion or two upon another subject, Wdii some gentleman, having experience in such matters, put us upon the best plan to cover drains, in the absence of stone or tile? Several of my neigh- bors are inteiested in this question, and in cov- ering with puncheons and brush, we may not be pursuing the best plan. The experiments al- ready made answer admirably, so far, but the timber has been laid but a short lime and it may decay soon or the drains choke up. Can you in- struct us a little, Mr. Editor? Respectfully, Joel Hurt. Crauford, Russell, Co. Ala. Smut, or Blast in Oats, Mr. Editor — I avail myself of the opportunity afforded by a rainy day to inquire of you or some of your numerous correspondents, the cause of the above disease in oats, if known, and the cure for it, if any. I have read a great deal in regard to ihe smut in wheat, but do not recollect to have seen any thing on the subject in regard to oats. On inquiry amongst my neighbors, I find three things assigned as the cause vif the disease, each of which, when brought to the tost of experience, proves fallacious. The first, and most general opinion is, that unripe seed is the cause of it. The next is that oats put in the ground when it is very wet, are subject to the smut from that cause ; another opinion is that iafe sowing causes the smut. Now I will give you a few 'facts to show the fallacy of each, though some of them, apart from the others, seem to support each opi- nion. Some years since, one of my neighbors, then residing in the county of W'^arren, sow'ed a field of 40 acres in oats. On tlie last day, while sow- ing, there fell a very heavy rain, but as there was but a few hours work to do, he proceeded and plowed them in. At maturity, the part plowed after the rain was hardly worth cutting for the emut, the other part nearly free from it. The seed was all the same when sown. Last fall, in the early part of October, I sowed a small field of oats. During the first and second wei.k in November, I sowed another larger field.— During the last week in Novcniber, I sowed another field adjoining the first small field. The seed sown was all alike. The ground was pretty wet when the first veas sown — ( Uite dry when the second and last was put in. The result, at maturitj', is that the first has not one-fourth the quantity of smut that the two last has, which are nearly equal. A neighbor sowed in December and Januarv— those sowed in January being four times as badly smiuted as those sown in December. Seed and land the same. Another who sowed in the latter part of February, has less smut than any of the rest. From the above statement you will perceive that neither of the above stated opinions is supported by the facts developed. What course shall we pursue to remedy the evil? Will soaking the seed as we do wheat preserve it? Even if it will, the lightness and bulkiness ofoats will ren- der the operation troublesome and expensive. I shall, iherefjre, feel much obliged for any sug- gestions that may help me to avoid the evil in future. From what experience I have in raising oats I shall endeavorin future to put them in the ground in October and November, believing that the Cl op is more cert.nin, and the yield much more abundant. 1 believe that oats become acclima- ted or rendered more hardy by being repeatedly sown in the fall, until they will be nearly as hard to kill by frost as wheat. J have had none killed for the last 5 or 6 years, e.xcept one field, partial- ly hst winter, and that the one sown in Ihe last week in November. They are a crop I prize very highly. P. W. J. Blakely. June^thA'rAQ. 108 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVAl’OR Improving Exhausted L.anci— Bermuda Grass— Liucerne—Kye, &e. Mr. Camak:— Three years ago I commenced farmirig under the new school system of agricul- ture. The year ’42 was spent in arranging lots, making fences and excavating pits for depositing leaves'and trash from the woods, and refuse matter from stables and the lot upon which my family reside. These pits, of which I made two, one thirty by forty, and the other fifty by twenty feet, were partially filled during the spring and summer of ’42, and during the following winter their contents hauled out and deposited in heaps 12 feet apart, each way. Immediately the heaps (which were the ordinary size of manure heaps, as we drop them from a cart) were taken from the cart with hoes, they were all covered with a spade, from the soil in the field, an inch thick. This was the true condition of the field, without any exaggeration, upon which this manure was put. It had been planted in corn a year or two be- fore 1 boushtit (the year was a seasonable one too) and did not yield m^re than halfa barrel of nubbins to the acre. I planted in ’42 a few sweet pota- toes upon it. The vines did not average six inches in length, and when I dug open the hills in November following, it had tailed to produce any potatoes whatever, not even seed potatoes. This was the character of the field, and I have stated the unvarnished truth about its exhausted condition. After hauling out my manure, as above slated, I spread it broadcast and turned it under with a one horse turning plow, as fast as spread. In the autumn of ’43, 1 harvested from that very field at least seven barrels of corn (not nubbins) to the acre. The land, in its palmiest days, never produced more than three and a half barrels of corn to the acre, before ’43. I plowed my corn but twice after it was planted in ’43, and I have done so every year since that date — but I turn over my corn land in the fall and put the weeds and grass under, and cross with a coulter, deep as I can during the winter. My stables, in which I have no plank floors, ' are all bott med with corn stalks during the winter. Whenever they get dirty during the winter, they are forthwith covered with fresh leaves from the woods. In the fall and winter of ’43 I manured about six acres ot the above field, as above stated, since wh'ch that portion of the field has had no farther manuring, but the weeds and oat stubble were turned under with one horse turning plows, last September, during the morninss, when I could not pull pea vines on account of the dews. I now have, upon that six acres, corn, which, if no disaster occuis, will make eight barrels at least, to the acre. Some, over half an Rcre of it, will range between ten and twelve barrels. I have about four acres in a Bermuda grass pas- ture. I find it vei-y valuable for all kinds ofstock. I never had my hogs tod > so well, as those that ran upon the pasture all last winter. I think they :eed upon ihe roots in the winter season. I went into the woods some four years ago and opened and fenced the pasture, and left the whole four acres surrounded with wood land. I planted the grass and then sprouted during the summer. I have never suffered a plow to go into the lot — As the grass will never cross the shade with which it is surround' d, I beg my friend John VV. Pitts not to use his butcher knite upon me — for I much prefer he should first try again, and see if he cannot stick it in that briar patch of his. And n w, since I have gotten Bermuda grass, I am trying to obtain a emss of the Berkshires to feed upon it. I never would 'nave even a crossbefore this, because I had no grass for them to feed upon. Oats, until this year, have for several years been almost a failure. I have abandoned the crop, and, with many others in this county, have substituted rye. From one acre of rye, which was well manured, I fed from about the first ot March last till first of J une, eight head of grown cattle and a match of horses. I fed by soiling, and both cattle and horses got but little else. They all did w^eil. When the horses were plowing, (which was not half the time) they had corn. I think it was the most profita- ble acre I ever cultivated. My hogs are now on that acre, and so soon as they glean ii, wi’l be turned upon another field which was sown in rye expressly for them. I shall not cut it at all, but this fall turn under the straw after the hogs have eaten the rye out. I never saw hogs thrive better — and they get nothing but the rye and the much feared and awfully condemned Ber- muda grass. Six years ago last April, I sowed, for the first time, the seed of Lucerne grass. It is a very valuable grass. If I had not had it, I know not how I should have fed my horses during a part of the severe drought of last year. I tried, at dif- ferent times in the year, for three years, and failed as many times, to get a stand I have sown the seed in April, in September and in October, and failed every time. I sowed in March, three years ago last March, and got but an indifferent stand. This year I sowed a little before the 20th of February, and got a most excellent stand. It grew two feet and up- wards in he ght. I sowed in drills one foot apart. I have cut it once, and in ten days from this it will be ready for the sickle again. When I re- flect upon the coldness and backwardness oflast spring, I am sure February is the best time in which to sow it in this country. I would not, however, advise any one to attempt to raise lu- cerne upon ground ordinarily fertile. I w'ould advise first to prepare the ground by heavy ma- nuring. Then raise corn. When the corn is ta- ken off, then manure heavily again with well rotted manure — then plow deep, very deep, and keep on plowing during all the early part oi win- ter, that the cold and frost may thoroughly pul- verize the soil, and then sow the first warm spell of weather in February. From my lucerne, that is three years old, which i am cutffng a second time, I have cut a plenty ot stocks that were over 2,V, and but very little under 3 feet in length. I followed your directions in the cultivation of Irish potatoes this year. I never could succeed with the crop before, though I have been trying for 16 years. Under your guidance I have suc- ceeded to my heart’s content, as w’ell as that ot my palate too. I have a large surplus. Now please tell me, in the July No. of the Southern Cultivator, how to keep them during the suc- ceeding fall and winter. It will be quite an ob- ject with me to save them, as I lost my sweet potatoe seed last winter, and a supply was not to be obtained. My sweet potatoe crop will, there- fore, be very scanty, as I have to raise altogether from the slip, and can procure but a few of them. I once farmed it for about seven years, under the doctiines of the old school Agriculturists. I found it would not begin to do. When property became high, ten years ago, I sold land, negroes and all - quit the business — read the Agricultural papers — became satisfied the new-school were leaching the riuht lessons in Agriculture — about three and a half years ago went to work as the new-school directs, and have succeeded beyond my most sanguine expectations. Charles D. Davis. P. S. — 1 am sure that my individual history in Agrieult aral matters ought to be confirmation, strong as holy writ, to every unprejudiced man, that the Southern Cultivator ought not late- ly to be sustained, but most liberally patronized. Monroe., Walton Co., Ga , ./une, 1846. Plowing near the Salerno. — The fields being without lences, have an open look; and the mingling ol men and wo.nen together in their cultivation, gives them a chequered ap- pearance, and renders them very picturesqae. In the middle ol a large green wheat field would be a group of men and women weeding the giain; the red peiticoats and the blue spencers ot the latter contrasting beautilully with the co- lor ot the fields. In one plot of gr.uind I saw a team and a modeof plowing quite unique, yet withal very simple. The earth was soft, as it already broken up, and needed only a little mel- lowing: to effect this, a man had harnessed his wife to a plow, which she dragged to and fro with all the patience of an ox, he in the mean- time holding it behind, as if he had been accus- tomed to drive, and she logo. She, with a strap around her breast, leaning gently forward, and he bowed over the plow behind, presented a most curious picture in the middle of a field. The plow here is a very simple instrument, having but one handle, and no share, but in its place a pointed piece of wood, sometimes shod with iron, projecting forward like a spear; and which merely passes through the ground like a sharp pointed slick, without turning a smooth furrow like our own. — Letters from Itahj, iilontl]lg QTaienifar. Altered from the American Agriculturist's Almanac for 1814, and arranged to suit the Southern States, CAL,E1V1>AK ffOlt JVLY. [The following brief hints to the farmer, planter and gardener, will be found to apply not only to the month under which they are arranged, but, owing to diversity of seasons, climate and soils, they may frequently an- swer tor other months. This precaution the consider- ate agriculturist will not fail to notice and apply in all cases where his judgment and experience may dictate.] Finish hoeing out your corn, potatoes, and all other crops, and make early preparation lor harvesting. See that your tools are all in or- der, and a full supply of each. Get the best you can procure. A man may earn the extra cost ol a good scythe or cradle, in a single day’s work, besides the promotion ol good morals, by the better humor he is kept in. Get rakes and pitchforks which you know won’t break by fair usage. By all means prepare a horse rake, which may be made as simple as a hoe. A man with a steady horse may do the work of 8 men with one. Clover should be cut while just going out of bloom, when the heads are partially turned brown. It ought never to be spread. Let it lie in the swath till wilted: if they are very large or heavy, they may be turned over after the upper side is sufficiently dried. As soon as this is done, let them be raked into winrows, and soon after cocked in small high piles. This should always be done the first day, and if very hot, may be done within a few hours after cut- ting. Let it stand in these cocks till it has sweat and become cool, and comparatively dry. It may then be taken into the barn or stacked, and well salted. Lucerne is to be treated in the same way. Timothy and redtop should not be cut till the seed is in full milk, so that it w'ill ri- pen alter being cut. It ought never to get so ripe as to shell when fed out. These may be exposed to the sun longer than clover, but less than is usually practiced. Our hay is frequent- ly dried too much, and some who never spread their hay from the swarth, much prefer it thus cured. It is better to allow it to cure in the cock, when it is always safe against sun, dew and rain. Grass ought never to be exposed to the dew while spread. A few days of sun and dew while thus exposed, render it almost worth- less. Hay may always be carried into the mow or stack sooner, by using salt freely : at the rate of four quarts to the ton is our rule. Besides lessening the risk from rain, the salt is always worth much more than its cost lor the cat- tle and manure, and it will thus comer a tri- ple benefit by answering successfully the pur- poses of each. Much of the wheat, oats and barley maybe harvested this month. The cleanest fields or portions of them, should be selected lor seed, but not the heaviest or largest growth. Seed is better if grown on moderately poor land, than on ihe best. Prof. Sprengel has shown from experiments, that grain matured on the richest land, though eminently fitted for food, contains too much gluten for seed; while that which is produced from poor land has a greater propor- tion ol starch, which is the natural food for the young plant. The part thus selected should be allowed to mature the seed fully w'hile standing; the grain intended for consumption ought to be cut while the berry is yet soft, in the dough state. Such grain will produce more flour, and. of a better quality than when dead ripe, besides being much less liable to shelling and waste. Alter moderate exposure to sun, rake up in bun- dles, or if w'ell ripened, rake up at once, and bind soon alter, when it it requires additional curing it may be finished in the shock. If put in stacks, these should be carefully placed be- yond the reach of vermin, and so arranged as to have a circulation of air upward through ihe centre of the stack, to avoid mould and injury to the grain. The utmost care in stacking ought always to be used, to avoid injury from rain, and blowing down from high winds. Kitchen Garden. — Cabbages ol the several va- rieties can now be planted for late crops. Moist THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 109 weather should be selected tor this purpose, and the plants immediately and frequently wa- tered, until they are well rooted. Melons, squashes pumpkins, &c., ought to be caretully hoed, and kept entirely tree trom weeds; other- wise, they will not produce good Iru it. Melons and cucumbers tor pickles can be sown in the early part ot this month. Sow kidney-beans, small salad, carrots, turneps and spinach for fall and winter use. Celery should be planted out in trenches ; and some varieties ot radishes and peas may be sown with reasonable prospect ot success, if the season should prove moist. Egg plants, peppers and tomatoes, plant out if not done before. Collect all the vegetable seeds that have come to maturity, and dry them well before putling away ; also, gather herbs as they come into flower, and dry them in the shade, that the sun may not injure their flavor. Pull up the stalks of beans, peas, &x:., which, have done bearing. Water may be Irequently and beneficially applied, but it should always be done at the close of the day, otherwise the plants will be injured by the heat of the sun. Fruit Gurden and Budding may be performed upon pears and apples the latter part ot this month. Gather from the trees and give to the cattle or swine, all fruit that is de- cayed or punctured by the insect, otherwise the insect, which now exists as a worm in the pre- mature fruit, will soon be able to fly and attack the remainder. Also continue to cut off all the wood as fast as it may apjTear to be infested by the insect which produces a black knot. Keep the ground well cultivated among the trees. There is very little else to be done in the fruit garden this month, excepting it may be to con- sume its productions, tor which directions may possibly not be requisite. Flower Garden and Pleasure Grounds. — Bul- bous and tuberous roots can now be taken up, and tulips, hyacinths, &c., carefully putaway for planting in the fall. Herbaceous flowering plants may still be transplanted from the seed bed to the border, and should be taken up v/ith as much earth as possible about the roots. Hedges can also be clipped in the early part of this month. Walks and borders keep constant- ly clear ot weeds, and let a general air ot neat- ness pervade every part of the garden. Plantation. — As a general rule, give the cot- ton crop its last working this month ; some sea- sons the weeds will be too large to work with plows without injury even before the 10th. Keep the fields clean; if your intention is ei- ther rotation, or cotton to succeed cotton, it will save labor next year. Pay particularaltention to yourtobacco fields. When the plants have acquired trom 12 to 14 good leaves, and are about knee high, begin to top them by nipping off the bud with the aid of the finger and thumb nail. Take care not to destroy the small leaves near the buds, for if the land be good and the season favorable, the very top leaves will, in a short time, be nearly as large, and ripen qui e as soon as the lower ones, whereby two or four more leaves may be saved; thus obtaining from 16 to 18 leaves in the place of 12 or 14. As the topping of the plants is essential, in order to promote growth, and to equalize the ripening of the leaves, this operation should be commenced the instanlthat the bud shows a disposition to go to seed; and should be followed immediately by removing the suckers as fast as they appear, which will now put forth at every leaf. The blades from the early planted corn can now be stripped for fodder. Let the shuck or husk on the ear change from the green to the whitish cast, then tie a handful or so to itself, and thrust the end of the tie between the ear and the stalk. Do not break down the stalks, dr it will require more time to strip the blades, ut in the end there will be a gain ; for it can 2 got in sooner it the rain threatens, or if caught i a rain, it will not be injured so much. Cure le fodder well before stacking. Late corn will need plowing in this month, and peas may be planted amongst it as directed in May. The late plantings of potatoe drawings and the plantings of vines will require plowing, and I drawing up with a hoe; continue to plant out vines. If there is not ground enough in the po- tatoe patch, bed up ridges in the early corn fields. Two furrows will do to plant on, which will not materially injure the corn ; or plow up a choice piece of stubble ground anew. Millet grass must be cut when just turning, if for feeding, and treated in the same manner as stacking oats. If your crop will admit of it, grub up small growth; cut down saplings, and deaden trees for a calf pasture, to be sown in September or October with rye. Plowing will be unnecessa- ry, the fall of the leaves will cover the ground and the grain will spring up and give a fine bite lor the winter. Make artificial pools in your pastures for stock if there are no natural ones. Prepare a turnep patch, either old ground by manuring high and plowing, or a piece of new ground. The cotton gathering season is now' rapidly approaching; prepare baskets and sacks to pick in, all leisure time, especially all wet days. Top cotton the last of this month, either by pinching off the tender top part of the plants or cut off w'ith a knife. Repair buildings and fences about fields; rake up leaves and haul on the land; gather manure and house it under sheds or give it a coating of earth. If there are show'ers plant French beans; sow more endive; prepare the ground for transplant- ing cabbages that are coming on in the last of this month. If the w'eathe r be very dry and the soil unfit to w'crk, prepare drills two feet apart, and about eight inches deep, and pour into them some cow-dung w'ater. Transplant your cab- bages into those drills and leave them four or five days wnthout watering. Then repeat the operation with the manure wmter once more, and there will be no danger of the plants burn- ing up. Should the season be rainy this pre- caution will be unnecessary. Sow' more carrot seed and proceed as directed in June, From the Western Farmer and Gardener. Book Farming and a Portrait, Whenever our anti-book fanners can show us better crops at a less expense, better flocks, and better farms, and better owners on them, than book farmers can, we shall become con- verts to their doctrine. But, as. yet, w’e cannot see how intelligence in a farmer should injure his crops. Nor what difference it makes whether a farmer gets his ideas from a sheet of paper, or from a neighbor’s mouth, or from his own experience, so that he gets good, practical, sound ideas, A farmer never objects to receive political information from newspapers; he is quite willing to learn the state of the markets from newspapers ; and as willing to gain re- ligious notions from reading, and historical knowledge, and all sorts of information ex- cept that w'hich relates to his business. He will go over and hear another neighbor tell how' he prepares his land, how he selects and puts in his seed; how he deals with his grounds in the spring, in harvest, and after harvest; but if that neighbor should write it all down careful- ly and put it into a paper, it’s all poison! its book-farming ! “ Strange snch a difference there should be ’I’u'ixt tweedledum and tweedledee.” If I raise a head of lettuce surpassing all that has been seen hereabouts, every good farmer that loves a salad would send for the seed, and ask as he took it, “How do you contrive to raise such monstrous heads ? you must have some secret about itl” But if my way were written down and printed, he would not touch it. “ Poh ! it’s bookish !” Those who are prejudiced against book farm- ing, are either good farmers, misinformed ofthe design ol agricultural papers, or poor farmers, who only treat this subjectas they do all others, with blundering ignorance. First, of the good farmers: There are in every country, many industrious, hard-working men, who know that they cannot afford to risk anything upon wild experiments. They have a growing family to support, taxes to pay; lands, perhaps, on wuich purchase money is due. They suppose an agricultural paper to be stuffed full of wild fan- cies, expensive experiments, big stories made up by men who know of no farming except parlor-farming. They would, doubtless, be surprised to learn that ninety parts in a hun- dred ofthe contents of agricultural papers, are written by practical farmers; that the editor’s business is not to foist absurd stones upon cre- dulous readers, but to sift stories, to scrutinize accounts, to obtain whatever has been proved to be fact, and reject all that is suspected to be mere fanciful theory. Such papers are de- signed to prevent imposition; to search out from practical men whatever they have found out, and to publish it for the benefit of their children all over the Union. The other class who rail at book-farming, ought to be excused, for they do not treat book- farming any worse than they do theirown farm- ing; indeed, not half so bad. They rate the paper with their tongue, but cruelly abuse their ground, for twelve months in the year, with both hands, 1 will draw the portrait ol a genuine anti-book farmer of this last sort, [This pic- ture is drawn for the West; perhaps it needs no great alteration, to apply as well to the SJoutn.] He plows three inches deep, lest he should turn up the that, in his estimation, lies below; he sows two bushels of wheat to the acre, and reaps ten ; so that it takes a fifth of his crop to seed his ground ; his corn land bears just what it pleases ; which is from thirty to thirty-five bushels, though he brags that it is fifty or sixty His hogs, if not remarkable for fattening qualities, would beat old Eclipse at a race; and were the man not prejudiced against deep plowing, his hogs would work his grounds better with their prodigious snouts, than he does W'ith his jack-knife plow'. His meadow-lands yield him from three-quarters to a whole ton of hay per acre, which is regularly spoiled in curing. His horses would excite the avarice of an anatomist in search of osteological speci- mens. But oh! the cow's! If held up in a bright dav to the sun, don’t you think they would be semi-transparent? But he tells us that good milkers are always poor! His cows get what Providence sends them, and very little besides, except in winter; then they have a half-peck of corn on ears a foot long, thrown to them, and they afford lively spectacles of animated corn and cob crushers. Nevermind: they yield on an average, three quarts of tnilk a day ! and that milk yields varieties of butler quite as- tonishing. His farm never grows any better: in many respects it gets annually worse. After ten years w’ork on a good soil, while his neighbors have grown rich, he is just where he started. And when at last he sells out to a Pennsylvanian w'ho reads the “ Farmers’ Cabinet,” or to some New-Yorker, with his “ Cultivator,” packed up carefully as if it w'ere gold, or to a Yankee, with his “ New-England Farmer,” he goes off to Missouri, thanking heaven that he’s not a bock- farmer! Effects of Crossing on thf. CoNSTiTurroN. — Those classes of the human race which pre- serve their blood free from mixture with stran- gers, while they have less variety in external appearance, and perhaps less variety in the scope of mental capacity, than those who cross and recross at pleasure, have more endurance in action, firmer attachments to purposes, and less desultory impetuosity. This is a physical truth. In brute animals — horses, sheep and cattle — the . mixture of different races is ob- served to enlarge the size; it diminishes the hardiness and the security of the physical health. In man the mixture of different races improves beauty, augments the volume ofthe bodily organs, and even perhaps errpands the sphere of intellect. It diminishes the power of enduring toil, and renders the habit more sus- ceptible to the causes of disease. — Jackson's Economy of Animals. MO THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR, Somethiiisr about Manure and its Ap- plicatioa.--BY jessb bydes. Almost all the farmers ot this country are obliijed to depend on the resources of their own farms for the supply of animal and vegetable manures. Mineral manures are more general- ly purchasable but as stimulants and absorb- ents; they can only operate in conjunction with the vegetable matter ol the soil, (the humus or mould,) the principal supply ot which, to cul- tivated land, is obtained from our cattle yards. It seems to be selt-evident, that the earth must receive something in return tor her productions, or, become bankrupt. Either a portion other produce must he left with her, or an equivalent returned, otherwise she becorhes barren and un- frnitllul. Ic behoves us, then, to increase the fertility of the soil we cultivate, until it is capable of af- fording to plants all the nourishment they require ot it, in order todevelope them tully. There is great encouragement in the thought that plants derive a part of their tood and nour- ishment from the atmosphere. If it was all de- rived from the earth, then it would require all the produce of the farm to be restored to it, in order to preserve its fertility. But experimen- tal proofs are not wanting to show that a large part of the food of plants is derived from the al- mosphere. When once it is conceded that the soil of a farm can be made to grow rich by the use of manure made from a great deal less than its own produce, it must also be conceded that the same tarm ought to be enriched faster and taster, as ihe amount ot its productions increase. I do not believe that the manure which is ap- plied to hoed crops in this country, reproduces itself to the farmer, as a general thing, notwith- standing its auxiliary help from the atmosphere. This is a serious consideration, if we believe that by securing all its valuable properties, it ought to be instrumental in producing five or six times as much. Take a field and apply tf> it for Indian corn the amount ol manure made from its own produce for five preceding years, then raise three grain crops in succession, say corn, oats and wheat or rye; and at the end of that time I am well assured that the soil will have lost more strength than was imparted to it bv the manure ol five years. Let it then belaid down to grass for two years, and at the end ol that lime it will have recovered the elements of fertilitv, so as to be, generally speaking, about asgood as it was before ihemanurewasapplied five years previous ; ihe formation of sod being a rejuvenating process. [ once buried by the plow, in the spring of the year, about sixty ox-cart loads of manure on lour acres ot sod ground plowed the usual depth, five or six inches; soil stiff and heavy; and for aught 1 have ever seen ot its efiects, there might as well have been a tnneral cere- mony at the time ot the burying. The season was somewhat wet. What became of the salts of the manure? It was first planted wi:h po- tatoes, which were poor; ihen sowed with rye, which was poor, and the grass that followed was not as good as that which grew before the plowing. Plowing in manure on dry land may do better; but I doubt whether one-founh is ever realized from it that ought ro be, 1 once put about five bushels of strong horse manure in one heap on a timothy meadow, and spread the surrounding parts with like manure, ten two-horse loads to the acre. The manure heap made the grass but little heavier on its borders than it was elsewhere, the ten loads to the acre having brought the land near to its maximtin ol production — tons to the acre. Nineteen- twentieths of the manure in the heap, then, was lost; which is proof positive to my mind, that it is necessary to secure its valuable properties very soon, or they are lost. I kno’.v that most theoretical and many prac- tical tanners recommend the useot all the ma- nure on the farm on hoed crops; and wear the land out, as I think, without securingsuch a re- turn from it as will leave it belter thaa before. Experience has taught us here, that to enrich our land, we must apply the manure for our plow land at the time of sowing" winter grain, spread it on the furrow, and harrow it in with the grain, which leaves it just where we want it, near the surlace; or harrow the ground first, then spread the manure, and plow it and the grain in together, with light furrows. If we put all the manure on for corn, the re- sult is pretty good corn and oats, and poor win- ter grain and grass succeeding. When the sod is again turned over for corn, it being poor, the corn again requires barn-yard manure; and thus the land is kept poor, the grass being light, and the manure not increasing in quantity. But let the disposition ot the manure be changed: apply it to winter grain, and then we have good wheat or rye succeeded by good grass, plenty of fodder, and a sod formed, which, when the land is again plowed for corn, will enable it to grow as luxuriantlyasitdidunderprevious management with the manure applied directly to it j and the manure is thus left for the benefit of the winter grain again. With the manure for winter grain, it prevents it from freezing out in the winter and spring; also saves the young timothy, and in many in- stances I ghtens the soil so as to preserve the clover roots ot the year following. Grass being a mending crop, the land can spare its luxuriant burthen and not be poorer, and the land is im- proved by the amount ot the manure, a luxu- riant sod being, as it were, its representative. Such, in my view, is a practical way of in- creasing the effects ol manure, and securing for the earth a store of vegetable tood. — Amer. Quar. Jour, of Agriculture. [The suggestions in the foregoing relative to [he application of manure, will apply better to wheat-growing than to corn-growing. How- ever good the sod might be, few of our New England farmers would trust to it alone, with- out manure, lor the production ot a crop of corn. — N. E. Farmer. From the South Carolina Advocate. Rice should be the Pioneer in bringing WoodlaJitl into Culture. It is a question with planters, whether it be more profitable to cut down the entire growth on land intended to be brought into cultivation for cotton or corn ; or to leave the larger trees standing, only girdliflg them. Much more land could certainly be brought under tillage by the latter mode, but the product to the acre would be proporlionably decreased. By the plan of clearing clean, there would be far more work in the first instance; by the other, some clearing would have to be performed tor a num- ber ot years to come: so the results would about balance. And did we intend to plant either cot- ton or corn as the first crop to be raised, it would be of little consequence which method was adopted. But here lies ihe mistake ; cotton or corn will not succeed in the neighborhood ot living trees. Whether it be attributable more to the nourishment drawn from the soil by the roots of the trees, than to the shade caused by the foliage, we cannot say; but w'ould ascribe it to both, together with the privation ot dew ; no dew being deposited under Uees, in conse- quence (according to the theory of Radiant Heat,) of there being no tree radiation of heat from the earth shaded by them ; the heat being reflected by the trees to the ground. The mistake then, is in planting cotton or corn as the first crop. The more profitable way is, not to cut down the entire growth, and make Rice the pioneer; for rice will do well in shaded locations, when none of our other staples w'ill. It will grow whether the land be shady or sun- ny, sour or sweet, new or old, wet or dry. It is the most hardy of all our plants cultivated as staples. Should a stalk of cotton or corn get broken off acciJentallv in working, or other- wise, an occurrence to which they are verv lia- ble in new grounds, the corn, if not completely destroyed, would possibly never entirely recover from the injury done; and the cotton would al- most infallibly perish. But the Rice may be cut down again and again, and it the misfor- tune do not happen too late in the season, it will ripen its grain. It resembles grass in this re- spect, it will not die from decapitation, it must be eradicated in order to be destroyed; nor does it only resemble grass, but it is grass, ranking in the natural methods of both Linnnasus and Jus- sieu under the Order ot Gramince. It will even yield grain in the midst of grass as tall as itself, where the other plants would be totally ruined. We do not mean to say that Rice is not serious- ly injured by such locations, but that it is not destroyed, and may even be saved by a hoeing long delayed, and do well; when in a similar situation, cotton or corn would be perfectly re- mediless. When young, if the Rice be covered with water until the stalks rot off, it will shoot forth when the water is removed. It thrives through all the varying systems of Rice plant- ers, Irom the “dry culture” to the “water cul- ture,” or “sixty days system ;” the only question being, which is the best of all, for it will suc- ceed with any. Who would cast his seed into the water and expect to harvest a crop, unless he were planting Rice ? But what particularly concerns the question in point, rice will not only grow, but produce in place's so shaded, that cotton or corn could there hardly maintain a useless existence. And it is the only staple that will yield a good crop in lo- cations as much shaded as is usually the ease with new ground^. All these qualifications peculiarly fit it for the rough culture of new land; the shady, virgin soil being moist and rich, the only abso- lute requisites for a tolerable crop. J. C. From Bousingault’s Rural Economy. To Improve the Soil. To improve a soil is as much as to say that we seek to modify its constitution, its physical pro- perties, in order to bring them into harmony with climate and the nature of the crops that are grown. In a district where the soil is too clayey, our endeavor ought to be, to make it ac- quire to a certain extent, the qualities of light soils. Theory indicates the means lo be follow- ed to effect such a change : it suffices to intro- duce sand into soils that are too stiff, and lomix clay, with those that are loo sandy. But these recommendations of science, which, indeed, the common sense of mankind had already pointed out, are seldom realized in practice, and only appear feasible to those who are entirely unacquainted with rural economy. The dig- ging up and transport of the various kinds of soil, according lo the necessities of the case, are very costly operations, and I can quote a particular instance in illustration of the fact. My laud at Bechelbronn is generally strong, (clay.) Experiments on a small scale showed that an addition of sard improved it considera- bly. In the middle of the farm there is a manu- factory which accumulates such a quantity of sand that it becomes troublesome. Neverthe- less, 1 am satisfied that the improvement by means of sand would be too costly. A piece of sandy soil, purchased at a very low price, after having been suitably improved by means of clay, cost its proprietor much more than the price of the best land in the country. Great caution is necessary in undertaking any im- provement of the soil in changing suddenly its nature. Improvement ought to take place gra- dually and by a course ot husbandry the neces- sary tendency of which is to improve the soil. Upon stiff clayey land we put dressings and ma- nures which tend to divide it, to lessen its cohe- sion, such as ashes, turf, long manure, &e. But the husbandman has not always suitable mate- rials at his command, and in this case, which is perhaps the usual one, he must endeavor to se- euresuch crops as are best suited to his soil. Autumn plowing of clayey lands is highly ad- vantageous to them, by reason of the disinte- grating effects of the ensuing winter frosts. Bousingault is both a distinguished Che- mist and a practical fanner ; yet no fanner, we THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. Ill are assured, who has a clayey or sandy soil, will be deterred, by the above remarks, from a-t tempting to improve his sandy soil by the ad- mixture of clay, if it be at hand, nor from im proving his clayey soil by the admixture of sand, ffitcan be easily procured. In either case, we do not believe the operation would be too costhj, as Bousingault asserts^-and much experience in this country could be adduced in disproof of the assertion. — N. E. Farmer, From the South Carolinian. Home Truths. “Some things can be done as well as others.” Sam Patch. Little indeed, thought Samuel, when he pen- ned the foregoing line, that he was writing don n that which was to become one of the triiest pro- verbs in Yankeedom. But it is more than this —it is a great speech— not as great as Cresar’s *• Veni vidi vici"' it is true, yet we doubt if Cae- sar could have bettered it on the occasion, or beaten Sam at his own game. Lover of pure English as we are, we think that we can see much meaning in this saying — a deeper truth than Sam, perhaps, ever dreamed of in his phi- losophy. It containeth all that is embraced in that hackneyed motto of every idle college boy, “ Perseverentio. fiabet premUuri" — it goeih even further, even unto “ nil desperandiim.” It is the true type, the very embodiment of Yankee cha- racter. It is, in one line, the history of that har- dy race which has forced its way into every corner of the globe, which has conceived,^and executed what the old philosophers never dre*am- ed of. Space has been annihilated; years have been compressed into moments. Madame Ru- mor, that fabulous mistress, who once rode up- on the wings of ihe wind, is now eclipsed by the Yankee news-god who travels upon the winged lightning. But Sam, poor fellow, made like many other heroes, his last leap for fame, an 1 proved that there were more ways of going out of the world than one, and what was more to the purpose, that he was not born to be hung, since ‘those born to be hung never get drowned’. We have travelled out of the record and al- most, verily, forgotten what we sat down to write about. It is a commonly received opinion now-a- davs, that planting in this country has ceased to be a business by which one can earn a living, It is a doctrine preached by almost every man who is now in debt, or has been engaged in im- prudent sueculations, that we cannot grow cot- ton in competition with the planters of the fer- tile West, and that to think of growing grain, raising stock, manuring and improving our lands, and diversifying our culture, is the veri- est humbug in the world. And the effect of this doctrine is, that hundreds of the very best of our citizens are constantly moying westward. It has pained u.s deeply to witness this sur- plus tide of emigration to the West duiing the last year. Whyisitso? Must our dear little State be thus stripned of its jewels, to enrich the hammocks of Florida and prairies of Tex- as? Can nothing be done to arrest it ? It is a question well worth answering. It all springs from this heresy — that the only profitable crop is cotton. That money can be made at nothing else — that one would starve who would pretend to plant anything else but cotton. His manure, if not suffered to “ waste its sweetness on the desert air,” is sparsely scattered over the bald spots on the farm. He plants just what corn will do him; no more. He buys his own pork, horses, mules and negro clothing, on a credit till the cotton crop is made; denends upon his cotton crop for all money, and upon his corn crib for the support of all sorts of animal life. Every man should adapt himself to his situa- tion— in other words, he should “cut hiscoat »ccording to his cloth.” Nobody thinks of such 1 thing in this country. No one thinks of be- ginning life as their fathers did before them. Acting as if they had the virgin soil and mono- poly of staple which their "fathers had, they begin to live in all the style and magnificence of a milliondire. A young man now-a-days, who works ten or filteen hands, must needs sport his carriage and horses. It is no common matter to keep up an equipage. A turn out worth S800 will incur an annual expense of $200; twenty-five percent, on a capital which must be reinvested, every five or six years at least. Then the furniture of one’s establishment — the style in which he must live, all go to drain oflTthe profits of the plantation. Say now that our young friend with his ten hands, makes five bags to the hand, and plenty of corn. He can- not clear more than $30 per hand. His whole cotton crop is laid out in a turn-out which bids fair to turn him out of doors; for, the $300 ba- lance against him, and $200 tax w'ill soak up the next year’s crop. Should he be unfortunate enough to buy property or speculate, once in debt, his story is soon told. He borrows money of the bank, or of some shaver at a high per cent., gets behind-hand, ultimately fails — pro- perty is sold under the hammer, and goes, as apt as not, into the hands of his father’s over- seer. He abuses the country, complains of our worn-out lands, the low price of cotton, and moves off'io the West. This is the sad history of many of the cleverest fellows of oar ac- quaintance. But how does it happen that the overseer be- comes so often the owner of the plantation? Why, he economized, he laid out every dollar he earned at interest; lived according to his means, and didn’t go in debt. And here is one of the most lamentable effects upon our coun- try— men, who by shaving and holding other fiehple’s noses to the grindstone, have laid up large fortunes, are to become henceforth the gentlemen of the country ! ' Men who have nei- ther education nor the pride to educate their children ; who think that a man is to be estima- ted by the number of niggers he owns, are to rule the country. If any man will take the trouble just for a moment to look about him, he will find cases enough in point; men sprung from the very dregs of society, (which should not detract from their merits if they had real worth about them,') clothed in a little brief au- thority because they have money to lend, begin ^o throw their toils’about them, till one by one, their neighbors are caught and drawn into their power, and then set themselves up for gentle- men. We have a perfect horror of this fashion of recognizing any man as a gentleman, simply because he rides in a cardage or has money to lend. We most earnestly hope we may live .to realize the beautiful lines of the Ayrshire Poet; “ Then lei us pray that cnme what may. As come it will for a’ that ; That sense and worth, o’er a’ the earlli. May bear the gree, for a’ that.” For our own part, we believe it all humbug; this doctrine, that a man cannot do well here, much as it is preached. We believe, that nin°-tenths of the men who have done well in the West, would have done well here, had they pursued the same course. We know many who regret they ever left their old homes, and hesitate not to say, that if they were back again, they would be far happier, and could do as well. There are exceptions, it is true, but “ cxceplio probat regulum.” Let a man once cut loose the moorings which bind him to his dear native home, and he is in spirit a wanderer for life. He is never so well satis- fied but he will sell out at a moment’s warning, to seek farther west, some new Eldorado. Pictures of this kind -may be seen all over the West. The people have no social attach- ments; the haunts of their ch ildhood, the fami- liar facesof the friends of iheir youth, the burial places of their fathers, are not around them to chain them to the spot. They live but for The accumulation of wealth. Their life must be one of continual excitement, or they are mise- rable. Hundreds of our citizens are growing rich every day, who cultivate poorer land than ma- ny of those who move off to the West; and why? Because they have set to work in the right spirit, satisfied “That somethings can be done as well as other.s.” A Cracker. From the London Iforlicullural Rlagazine. Refuse of the Gardeu, One of the most important things to be attend- ed to in a garden is that of saving every atom of vegetables that can be scraped together. The stems of peas and beans, the mowings of grass, the cuttings and prunings from trees and shrubs, the fallen leaves, should be as carefully preserved, to be returned to the ground, as if they were the richest manure. In some instan- ces this refuse may be dug into the ground at once in its green state ; in others, it may be thrown into a proper place to decompose, and the decomposition be assisted by the means of other applications. The objection made by some to digging-in the refuse in its green state, has been, chiefly, the liability to nourish instead of destroying the various eggs of the pests which annoy ihem, and that by throwing the refuse in a heap to rot, a good deal of this is destroyed. The refuse of a garden has been undervalued, or rather not valued at all, up to a very recent period ; for even outside of'market gardens in the vicinity of London, there have been seen large quantities of cabbage and brocoli leaves, and ve- getable wasteof all kinds thrown there tube taken by any one who cared for it, and removed by cottagers for their pigs and cows, or perhaps for the very purpose to which the gardener ought to have applied them— the manuring of the ground. Self -manuring, as it has been called, has been of late the subject of experiment in many pla- ces, and has been written and talked of by ma- ny as if it were a novelty, though we have been in the habit of using every description of waste not only for ihe garden, but on the field where it came from. Thus, potatoe vines have been dug in where the potatoes came off; cabbage leaves, turnip, carrot and parsnip tops have been dug in where the crops were grown; the cuttings of currant and gooseberry bushes have been chopped up and dug in between the bushes; and strawberry clearings have been used be- tween t.he rows of p'ants as the only dressing they had. While these matters rotted slowly, they kept the ground open, and as they decom- posed, they enriched it. The finest piece of strawberries we ever saw, was in a celebrated market-gardener’s ground at Deptford, where the trimmings were always dug in. We have unquestionable evidence that in some places on the continent, where vines are cultivated, the leaves and clippings are carefully forked in about the roots as a dress- ing for the next year. We do not mean to infer that this dressing is sufficient in ail cases, because the bulk which goes away in the crop has always had some- thing from the soil ; though we deny that it has taken anything near the quantity of matter found in it, because we have mentioned, and have proved by experiment, that much of the contents of any crop, no matter what, is taken from the water and the atmosphere. But let ns mention one application which has never failed us — the leaves of trees laid on pink beds, pansy beds, and autumn planted ranunculuses, and other subjects which are the better for protec- tion, will almost always rot by spring, and if then forked into the ground carefully without damaging Ihe roots, will be found an excellent dressing; protecting all winter, and nourishing as they rot. And it is well known that where leaves are allowed to rot into mould, ihere is not a more efficacious dressing. Taking a Hint. — ft is very surprising to see how slow some men are to take a hint. The frost destroys about one half the bloom on fruit trees; every body prognosticatesihe loss of fruit ; instead of that, the hai.e that remain are larger, fairer and higher flavored fruit than usual ; and the trees, instead of being exhausted, are ready for another crop the next year. Why dont he lake the hint, and ihin out his fruit every bear- ing year? But no, the next season .sees his or- chard overloaded, fruit small and not well form* ed, yet he always boasts of that first menifonea 112 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR crop, without profiting by the lessons which it teaches. We heard a man saying, “the best crop of celery I ever saw was raised by old John , on a spot of ground where the wash from the barn yard ran into it after every hard shower.” Did he then take the hint, and apply liquid ma- nure to his celery trenches 1 Not at all. We knew a case where a farmer sub-soiled a field, and raised crops in consequence, which were the admiration of the whole neighbor- hood ; and for years the field showed the ad- vantages of deep handling. But we could not learn that a single farmer in the nighborhood took the hint. The man who acted thus wisely, sold his farm, and his successor pursued the old wav of surface scratching. A staunch farmer complained to us of his soil as too loose and light, we mentioned ashes as worth trying: “Well, now you mention it, I believe it will do good. I bought a part of my farm from a man who was a wonderful fellow to save up ashes, and around his cabin it lay in heaps. 1 took away the house, and to this day I notice thatwhen the plow runs along that spot, the soil turns up moist and close grained.” It is strange that he never took the hint. A farmer gets a splendid crop of corn or oth- er grain from off the grass or clover ley. Does he take the hint? Does he adopt the system which shall allow him every year a sward to put his grain on ? No, he haie.s book farming, and scientific farming, and “ this notion of ro- tation,” and plods on the old way. — Ex. paper. Core for Whooping Cough. —A teaspoon- ful of castor oil to a teaspoonlul of molasses. Give a teaspoonful of the mixture whenever the cough is troublesome It will affoid relief at once, and in a few days it effects a cure. The same medicine relieves the croup, however vio- lent the attack. — Na.1. hit. Old Bread the Best. — It has been found that baked bread on the first day produces from 71 to 79 per cent. of nutritive matter, while that five days old yields from 81 to 82 percent. New bread loses the five per cent, of its weight by evaporation in cooling. Aside from the advan- tages of stale bread in its nutritive matter, it is more wholesome, more easily digested, has more taste and is sweeter; while new bread lies heavily in the stomach and is of difficult diges- tion. With these advantages it is strange that most people reject stale bread or prefer the new'. It has been found that, on feeding the poor, very stale bread mixed with soup is far more satisfy- ing than any other they can obtain. Thus the laboringclasses consume one-eighth more bread than would be necessary if stale bread were used; or a family that consumed six pounds of bread per day would expend, at the present price, some 'SlO more a year by eating new, than by eating stale bread, with all the other disadvantages we have mentioned. Delicious Apple Pudding. — It is conve- nient, as it may be made several hours before it is baked, or when a nice addition is wanted un- expectedly. Pare and chop fine half a dozen or more, according to their size, of the best cook- ing apples — grease a pudding dish, cover the bottom and sides half an inch thick with grated bread, and very small lumps of butter ; then put a layer of apples with sugar and nutmeg, and r-'-peat the layers until the dish is heaped full. Before adding the last layer, which must be of bread and bnber, pour over the whole a teacnp- ful of cold water. Put it into the oven as soon as the dinner is served, and bake it lor twenty- five or thirty minutes. It may be baked the day before it is wanted; when it must be heated the- roughlv, turned into a shallow dish, and sprink- led with powdered sugar. It requires no sauce. ■ — Am. Agr. SuBsTtTUTE FOR THE Potato. — A Vegetable indigenous in New Grenada, the arrachia, is said to be a valuable substitute for the potato. Each plant furnishes three or lour pounds of root, of the nature of the carrot and potato uni- ted, and is said to be a wholesome food. The pear has 24 thousand pores to the square inch, on the under side of its leaf. Back Volumes of the Southern Cultivator. The Work complete from its commencement. Volumes I., II. and III. of the “Southern Cultivator,” can be supplied to all w'ho may desire the work from its commencement, at the subscription price— One Dollar each volume. The back numbers of the present volume are sent to all new Subscribers. CTQl/ITEHTS OF THIS IIUMBER, ORIGINAL, Book Farming page 105 Cincinnati Egg Trade .. *■ 105 Crops, the “ 105 Hogs, fattening “ 107 Improving Exhausted Land — Bermuda Grass — Lucerne — Rye, &c “ 108 Improvement of the Soil “ 105 Oats, Smut or Blast in ' “ 107 Overseers “ 106 Plowing, Subsoil “ 106 Potatoes, Sweet “ 107 Roadside Trees “ 104 Strawberry and Milk Trade of New York “ 104 Turpentine..., “ 101 ^ SELECTED. Agriculture, improvements in page 103 Amateur Gardener, the “ 102 Apples, a chapter on “ 103 Book Farming and a Portrait “ 109 Calendar, monthly — Work for. luly “ 108 Chemical principles, necessity of a knowledge of to the farmer “ 101 Effects of Crossing on the Constitution 109 Guano Poisonous ^ #05 Hint, taking a “ 111 Home Truths “ 111 Manure and its Application — something about “ 110 Manures, prepared, and their effects on Crops. “ 100 Marl — A Letter addressed to the Agricultural Society of Jefferson County, Ga : by J. H. Hammond [concluded] “ 97 Plowing near the Salerno “ 108 Potatoes “ 102 Refuse of the Garden “ 111 Rice should be the Pioneer in bringing Wood- land in to Culture “ 110 Science with Practice “ 101 Soil, to improve the “ 110 Whooping Cough cure for “ 112 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR, A MONTHLY JOURNAL, Devoted to the Improvement of Southern Agriculture, edited by JAMES CAMAK, OF ATHENS. THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR, havirg entered upon its Fourth Volume, the Publish- ers deem it unnecessary to advert to the high character the Work has attnined under the edito- rial control o! Mr. CAMAK, and therefore make a direct appeal to the Planters and Friends of Agriculture throughout the Southern States, to aid them in sustaining a publication devoted ex- clusively to the cause of Southern Agriculture The advantages and benefits resulting from Agricultural Periodicals, have been felt and ac knowledged by the intelligent and reflecling Til- lers of the Soil in all civilized nations ; to be most useful, therefore, they should be extensive- ly circulated among all classes of Agriculturists; if possible, they should be in the hands of every man who tills an acre of land, and to this end we invoke the aid of every one who feels an in- terest in the improvement of the Agriculture of the South. The Cultivator is published Monthly, in Q,uarto form ; each number contains sixteen PAGES of matter, 9 by 12 inches square. TERxMS ■; One COPY, one year - $1.00 Six copies “ “ 5.00 Twenty-Five copies, one yeah 20.00 One Hundred “ “ “ 75 00 The Cash System will be rigidly enforced. The CASH trust always accompany the order. All persons who obtain subscribers are requested to send the lists as early as possible to J. W. & W. S. Jones. NEW YORK AGRICULTUKAI. WAREHOUSE. Having Taken the commodious Store, No 1S7 Water-street , the sufeccriber is now opening the Largest and most complete assortment of Agricultural Implements of all kinds, ever yet offered in this market. Most of these are of new and highly improved pattern, Warrant- ed to be made of the best materials, put together in the strongest manner, of a very superior finish, and offer- ed at the lowest cash prices. seeds foe the farmer. Such as Improved Winter and Spring Wheat, Rye, Barley, Oats, Corn, Beans, Peas, Rutabaga, Turnip, Cabbage, Beet. Carrot, Pat.snip. Clover and Grass- seeds, improved varieties of Potatoes. wire-cloths and sieves. Different kinds and sizes constantly on hand. fertilizers. Peruvian and Atrican Guano, Pondrette, Bonedust, Lime, Plaster of Pans, &c. FRUIT AND ornamental TREES AND SHRUBS. Oiders taken for these, arid executed from a choice of the best Nurseries, Gardens, and Corservalories in the United States. HORSES, CATTLE, SHEEP, SWINE AND POULTRY. Orders executed for stock of all kinds, to the best advantage The subscriber requests samples sent to him of any newer improved Iitiplements, Seeds, &c., &c., which, if found valuable, extra pains will be taken to bring them before the public. A. B. ALLEN, 2 187 W'ater-street. New York. GAKHEIV AK» FBEUEJ SEEDS. A GENERAL assortment of fresh and genu- ine Garden and Field Seed, among which are the following : Red and while clover. Blue and green grass. Rye and orchard do Timothy and herds do Millet and Lucerne do Seed corn of every valua- Buckwheat & potato oats, Seed wheat, [ble variety Iv»pl constantly on hand by the subscriber, all o which are offered for sale at very moderate prices. All orders, by mail or otherwise, executed with neat ness and despatch. Wm. Haines, Jr., 1 No. 232. Broad-street, Augusta, Ga. A SUPPLY of the following varieties o fresh Turnep Seed, just received, viz : Yellow Sweedish or rutabaga, very fine for stock Large globe turnep, “ While fiat do “ Hanover or white rutabaga do “ Norfolk do For sale in quantities to suit purchases 1 Wm. Haines, Jr., Broad-st. She IDeekln (Ehroixicle Sentinel., FOR TWO DOLLARS A YEAR!! Fine fos table ase. WEEKLY CHRONICLE & SENTINEL, The Largest and Cheapest Family Newspaper in the Southern States, 28 by 46 inches, containing 36 col- umns, is issued from this office every Thursday, at the low rale of TWO DOLLARS per annum, in advance. The WEEKLY CHRONICLE & SENTINEL has been so long before the public, its reputation so firmly established, and its general conduct and management so well known, that the proprietors deem it a work of supererogation to say any thing in favor of its claims to public patronage. Trusting to a discerning and li- beral public to sustain them in their enterprise, they offer their MAM.MOTII WEEKLY at a price unparal- leled— at least in the Southern States — for cheapness, considering the size of the sheet, and the vast quantity of reading matter which it contains — a price within the reach of all. And who can dispense with a weekly register of current events — a family newspaper? * A’ Subscribers residing within thirty miles of th-is city receive their papers free of postage. I .T. W. & W. S. JONES, Proprietors. Soutl^eirn (Unltinator Is published on the first of every month, at Augusta, Ga. J. W. & W. S. JONES, PROPRIETORS. EDITED BY JAMES CAMAK, OF ATHENS, GA. TERMS -ONE DOLLAR A YEAR. 1 copy, one year oo I 25 copies, one year,..$20 oo 6 copies, “ 5 00 I 100 copies, “ .. 75 00 ' [All subscriptions must commence with the volume.) The Cash System will be rigidly adhered to, and in no case will the paper be sent unless the moneyaccompanies the order. ADVERirsEMENTspertainingto Agriculture, will be in- serted for ONE DOLLAR for every square of ten lines or less, for the first insertion, and seventy-five cents per square for each continuance. H^^All communications, must be post paid, and addressed to JAMES CAMAK, Athens, Georgia. VoL. IV. AUGUSTA, GA., AUGUST, 1846. No. 8. • IflAJ^AGE.TlEIV'ir OF SLAVES. The undersigned having been appointed a commiuee by the BarbourCounty Agricultural Society, to report on the best means of govern- ing our s’aves, and of promoting their happi- ness, and consequently their usefulness to us ; beg leave to submit the following REPORT. They have had the matters submitted tfl them under calm consideration, and are of opinion that no subject which properly belongs to a Southern Agricultural Society, should attract more attention than that embraced in the reso- lution referred to them ; and yet, they have not been able to find, that it has ever, as yet, at- tracted the attention ol any Southern Society. It appears to be a matter of astonishment why this is so; your committee can only account for it on the ground that we have been in the habit of merely following in the wakeol North- ern Societies, where the institution of slavery does not exi-t. We have not, it appears, re- collected that our condition is quite different from that of the non slaveholding section of the United States. With them their only property consists of lands, cattle and planting imple- ments. Their laborers are merely hirelings, while with us our laborers arc our property; and certainly, the most important portion of it, whether we regard them merely in the light of property, or as intellectual beings, for whose welfare we are in a great degree accountable. If, therefore, ii is a matter which pertains to the interest of Northern Agricultural Societies to attend well to the improvement of their lands, and the improvement and comfort of their stock, providing for the best means of cultivating their lands, &c., how much more important is it for us, to turn our attention to the best means of governing our slaves, and of promot- ing their happiness, and consequently their use- fulness to us. It does appear CO your commit- tee that no argument can be required to estab- lish the propriety of this question. Every rea- sonable person must at once perceive the irre- sistible conclusion, that there is no good reason why this subject has been so long neglected , and that it istime that we should commence to attend to it. Itcertainly cannot be that we are alraid to open this subject to yhe inspection of the world ; for your corumitiee are well persua- ded that the condition ol our slaves will bear a favorable contrast with that ol any other labor- ing population in the civilized world, so far as comlortand happiness is concerned ; and will not fall below them in any other point of view, than that of mere abstract notions of huma n rights, about which, it is true, there has been much nonsensical prating in this as well as in other countries. But whether we are willing to open this subject to the world or not, the eye of the world is on us, and the imagination has formeda picture upon this sujfci, even in our own country, which, when CO npared with the truth, is as the midnight darkness in contrast with the light of noonday. Such is the hide- ous deformity of the picture that we who are accustomed to the daily inspection of the origi- nal, cannot recognise the picture from the ori- ginal. Your committee do not by any means contend, that all the picture of slavery is one of light, (and this they would correct.) But they do insist that, in comparison with other forms of servitude, it will bear a favorable contrast — in fact, they challenge the world to produce a laboring population mote happy, better fed, or cared for, than our slaves. Lee us therefore be jjold ancj meet the fanaticism of the day, by a fgar!*essS» exposure of facts; whenever we are w/on*'^^et,us correct our errors, and in what we are rYg’ht, defend ourselves. ** Your comrni tee apprehend that there can be no difference of opinion in this Society as to the moral obligation of the master, to attend to the comfort and happiness of his slaves. Nor do we conceive that there will be any difier- ence of opinion as to the obligation ol tne mas- i ter, to promote the moral and religious charac- ier of his slaves. It is the interest as well as ihe duty ot masters to do this. Indeed, our laws require us to attend to the comlort and happiness of our slaves; and our missionary establishment, with its ample support by us, shows th.at we acknowledge the obligation - on us, to promote the well-being ot nur slaves. But even more — actual statistical returns show that religion is more prevalent amonglhe slaves ot the South than the free blacks of the North- ern States, and universal opinion concurs in giving them a higher moral character. It is true that in non-daveholding States the blacks are tree in theory, but in practice their freedom often leads to misery and degradation, and not unfrequentlv to oppression Irom his white asso- ciate. Whilst the’ slave is in theory in the clo- sest hands — in practice he has a friend and pro- tector in his master, who, from interest, huma- nity and religion, is bound to protect him and promote his happiness. Thus it will be per- ceived, that whilst in theory the Southern slave is the most abject and degraded, and the North- ern laborer and freed man the most free and happy, yet in practice the scale may be, and n the opinion of your Committee oUen is, turned in favor ot the slave. With the Southern master every motive which can influence a cor- rectlv constituted mind — interest, humanity and religion -leads to kindness towards our ■laves; and it is only the brutal, and un- reasonable portion of mankind who cannot be influenced bv -these means. For this class our laws are made and will compel them to do that for which no compulsion ought to be required. Ot all the motives which influence the inter- course between men, interest is certainly the strongest— this the employer of the hireling lacks to a great extent to induce liim to treat his hireling kindly. The interest ofthe master in connection with the hireling, is to obtain as much labor from him as possible at the small- est cost ; and when he becomes too old or decre- pid from disease or over-labor to wmrk, to get rid of him as soon as possible, whilst with 'the. owner of the slave, as the slave is his prope'riy, and he is bound for his support under all . cir- cumstances, v/e can readily conceive how* strongly the motive of the master in taking good care of the slave, and thus extending the time ot his usefulness. Yourcommittee, there- fore, feel well warranted in adding that the master who could disregard all those motives for good treatment of his slaves, must be brutal indeed, and must be so obtuse in his intellect as to act against the plainest principles ol rea- son. For such cases your Committee invoke the rigid enlo''cement of the law’s, and the ex- pression of a strong condemna'ion by public sentiment. Your Commiaee take pleasure in saying, that although there are instances in this as well as in other communities in which the considerations referred to, have not been suffi- cient to restrain masters from cruelty to slaves, yet these instances constitute exceptions to the general rule; and they are of opinion that, there is a gradual improvement going on in this mat- ter. We recommend, however, that this sub- ject be kept before the community, in order to convince all, that interest, humanity and reli- gion, alike, demand kindness to slaves, and that the law frown on those who treat their slaves inhumanly. I There is one class of our community to whom all the motives referred to, to induce us to kindness to our slaves, do not apply. Your Committee refer to our overseers. As they have no property in our slaves, ol course they lack the check of self-interest. As their only aim in general is the mere crop results of the year, we can readily conceive the strong in- ducement they have to over-work our slaves, and here masters are often much to blame, for inadvertently encouraging this feeling in their overseers. It is too commonly the case that masters look only to the yearly products of their farms, and praise or condemn their overseers by this standard alone, without ever once troubling themselves to inquire into the manner in which things are managed on their plantations, and whether he may have lost more in the diminish- ed value of his slaves by over-work than he has gained by his large crop. It is a well establish- ed fact, that over-work produces premature old age, bodily deformity and debility of constitu- tion, and checks the increase of females. The rpaster, .therefore, who has to support his pre- maturely old, deformed and debilitated slave.s, may well question the beneficial results of his large crops, especially w’hen his only increase ol slave.s is by purchases at high prices. Your Committee take pleasure in relerring to the tact, thac ihdse planters who are most successful in the acquisition of wealth are generally those who ‘‘ make hasteslow,” and w’ho will not “ kill the gor.se, to obtain the golden egg.” We are iherefoieof opinion, that ii masters w’ould lay less stress on the mere crop results of the plan- tation, and place more stress on the proper treat- ment ol their slaves, and the systematic ma- nagement of their plantations, it would correct the evil referred to. Our overseers ought to have no interest beyond that ot pleasing their employes ; and nothing but the most unhuman feeling on his part could induce him to treat the slaves cruelly, in opposition to the known w'ish of his emplover. Let the master recollect, too, that lie cannot relieve himself from the odium .of cruel treatment to his slaves, by attempting •to throw the odium on his overseer. It is his -duty to know how his slaves are treated and to ■protect them against crueltv. From the attachment which exists between the master and slave, your Committee are of opinion thrt an appeal to their better feelings would be sufficient in most cases to control them. They are aware, however, that this rule must have a limit, and that the law of force must have some share in the government ot the negro as well as the while man. In those countries where what is called volimtai'y servi- tude exists, the force then is necessity. When the laborer is dependent upon his daily income lor the support of himself and family ; and when the loss of his wages, as is often the case, involves the starvation ot his wile and childre^i 114 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. certairilv no greater torce can be applied lu him than the' threat ol turning him off to seek his bread, without a character, or probably with a blackened one. In the management of our slaves, this cannot be, as the master is bound for their support. The master must resort to other means of control. After reason and per- suasion have been exhausted without produc- ing the desired effect, punishment of some sort must be resorted to. But this should never be carried to a greater extent than is absolutely ne- cessary to enforce obedience to necessary com- mands. When this mode ol discipline is adopt- ed, your Committee do not hesitate to say, that with prudent management, prosperity on the part of the master, and happiness on the part ol the slave, is the inevitable consequence. No more beautiful picture of human society can be drawn than a well organized plantation, thus governed by the humane principles ot reason When the negroes are well ted, well clothed, and have not unreastmable burthens imposed on them, but are accustomed to a systematic and regular course ol labor, especially if the slaves have been born and reared up in the master’s household, or have long been members of his family, and hence have that strong attachment which never fails to grow up between the mas- ter and his slave in the course of time. The picture never fails to remind one of the patri- archal days when Abraham had slaves born in his house or purchased ivith his money Under such a state of things the master knows t.he man ; the man, his master. The master feels confident that the man is attached to him, and will consult his interest. The man feels con- fident that the master will only require what is right of him, and will abundantly provide lor all his wants as well as that of his family. When he or his children ate sick, he knows that he will have his master’s physician to mi- nister to them. When he is naked, he know's he will be clothed; and when he is old, he knows that his wants will all be supplied to him in his small cottage; during winter he will be warm- ed by his master’s fire, and clothed from his master’s flock; and at all times he knows that he will be fed from his masier’s ci ib and meat house. The man looks even beyond death, and knows that when he shall have died, he will be decently buried, and his children after him pro- vided for. When sickness and affitetion hap- pen to such a master, how anxious the solji i- lude ol his slaves for his recovery? And when at last death overtakes the good master, the tears, the sobsandthe cries ofhis faithful slaves point to him rather as their father than their master. This is no fancy sketch— it is a pic- ture, the original of which we have often ad- mired—and we venture that no more beautiful sight has ever been viewed in the countries ol voluntary servitude, however great the boast ot its superiority as a system ot labor over slave- ry. Yoar Commit'ee are aware that there are those who doubt the probability of a strong at- tachment between the master and his slave. But they are satisfied that this position is wrong, and from their experience they knnvj ihai there are numerous cases in the Southern States where the picture drawn above is a faithful sketch of actual lile. With respect to the best mode of governing our slaves, your Committee think they cannot bring the subject to the view of the planters in a more proper shape, than by recommending to them the following or similar rules in the gov- ernment ot their slaves. Of course, these rules are very general, and may be extended, probably, with advantage. But your Commit- tee, after mature reflection, are of opinion that they embrace all the general principles upon which they propose to base the government of our slaves. Rule 1st. Never punish a negro when in a Eiassion. No one is capable of properly regu atingthe punishmeniforan offence when angry. 2d. Never require of a negro what is unrea- sonable. But when you give an order be sure to enforce it with firmness, yet mildly. 3d. Always attempt to govern by reason in the first instance, and resort to force only when reason fails, and then use no more force than is absolutely necessary to procure obedience. 4th. In giving orders, al ways do it inamili tone, and try to leave the impression onihemind ot the negro that what you say is the result ot rt flection. 5 h. In giving orders, be sure that you are un- derstood, and let the negro always know that be can ask tor an explanation if he does not un- derstand you. 6th. When you are under the necessity of punishing a negro, be sure to let him know lor what offence he is punished. 7 h. Never act in such a way as to leave the impression on the mind ot the negro that you lake pleasure in his punishment — your manner should indicate that his punishment is painful. 8ih. A regular and systematic plan ol opera tion on the plantation is greatly promoiive of easy government. Have, therefore, all matters as lar as possible, reduced. to a system. 9th. Negroes lack the motive ol sell-interest to make them careful and diligent, hence the necessity of great patience in the Uianagement of them. Do noi, therefore, notice too many small omissionsof duty 10, h The maxim ol making haste slow in plantation operations, is equally applicable as in ordinary vocationsof lile. The meaning of which is, Dot by attempting to do loo much, to o^er-vvork and consequently injure yourhands. Recollect that the journey of lile is a long, and at best, a tedious one. The traveller who wish- es to make a long and safe trip, always travels in regularand moderate stages. Do not kill the goose to obtain the golden egg. Let 'hese, or similar roles he generally adopt- ed, and carried out by the Southern planter, and your Committee do not hesitate to say, that al- though it may not stop the clamor ot wicked men, who seek to make political capital out o; the spirit of Abolition, yet their clamor will prove as harmless as the owVs hont—ev^n the slaves themselves will not thank them Lr their efforts, but laugh them to scorn. The only food on which this fanatical spirit has heretofore been fed, is the instances in w ich some among us have failed to carry out the humane principles above recommended. Many of which instances have been caretu.ly collected, prop, rly embellished to suit the taste ol old women and children, and published to the world as the legitimate Iruit.s of slavery. Allot which, your Com nittee rtspecifully submit. John A. Calhoun, i E. E DtjBosE, > Committee, Virgil Bobo, ) Jane 13, 1816 From the Tallahassee (Fla ) Joarnal, PER.^I AIVENUJJ. We have often thought that one of the great- est obsiacles in the way ol the development of our country’s resources — one of the must dan- gerous enemies to its progressive prospe'ity — is o be found i i the absence of that which, for want of a better name, vve call the principle of Permanence, Go where we may, how lew do we find w'ho feel that they are seltled. Every one is talking of movinff — every one believes that he will move at no distant day. Few de- vote themselves tothe labor, however little may be required, of surrounding themselves with sources of comfort and pleasure, which they canno' carry away with them. A s^^nse of pride and honor, too, is weakened — many caring very little to establish a character lor integrity and uprightness, which will soon be left behind To the same feeling, it would be reasonable to attribute a neglect, to some extent, ol the mutu- al kindnesses and sweet charities of life — which, under other circumstances, most wotiid feel called upon to practice, if for nothing else, to secure the good will of those with whom themselves and children are to spend their lives. One of the most baneful consequences ol X\\\& unsettl dness is seen in ihe abuse oi the soil. The present is the all-engrossing thought. All that can be made must be made immediately^ without any regard to an almost siniul waste of the energies ot the land. The most exhao&t- ing modes of culture are resorted to— the fixed intention td the planter bemg to emigrate as soon as the soil looses its fruittulness. The little attention, which, given to manuring and judicious hu.'-banciry, would secure even im- provement, is denied — in a few years, fields once clothed with the richest crops, are left a desolate w-asie. One might supp 'Se that a sort ol kindness, even for the dull, silent, inanimate earth, (which nevertheless does sustain lile,) would save it from such treatment To our friends, thus hacking and killing the acres which have fallen to them, merely for tempora- ry gain, we wish we could offera remonstrance which would not be despised. This earth was not intended tor one generation, but tor many. De.“pite Father Miller’s prophecy, we think the signs are that it is to stand thousands of years yet. After we are all gone, others w ill have to make a living on (his planet. Time will be when God’s creatures, going on multiplying, w’ill have replenished t! e whole earth. The farm which thou, my friend, art now heedle.esly killing, may be necessary to keep alive future generations of thy own descendants. The Cre- ator has given it to thee to possess in thy day — alter thou art gone, he intends that some one else, as Carljle hath it, shall gT existed on it. For really thou did’st not make thy plantation, (called :hine through courte-y,) nor was it made lor thee alone, but for the generaiions of men who should successively fill up the years with their lives. To all planters and others, let ils say this: You have supplied yourselves with homes, the very choice of those you could get. Go to work, resolutely determined not to mar and abuse the Creator’s gilts. Rather by a little at- tention increase the fenility of your lands, than take the very life of them by cruel usage. De- termine to multiply around yourselves (wiih proper care, it will cost little,) comforts, and sources of innocent pleasure. Beautily your grounds with fine trees, in w'hose branches birds may sing, under whose shade the cool breeze may play. A little labor given, when voii have leisure, will, in a lew years, supply an oichard, a garden, a vineyard, which will ple.ase the eye and gratify the la'^te, with an offering of delightiul fruits, and fl ow'ers, and vegetables. Suppose even that those who plant should not live to gather the crop -it will be there for those dearer than one’s ow n lite — tor one’s children. Even should you emigrate, your work will not be lost, even in a pecuniary point of view. There will be a reward in the increased price which the place on which ihis labor has been besiQv ed will command. The pr"fii, to speak ot nothing el.se, we veiily believe, is clearly in favor of our argument. Take a case. A man has a ih' usand acres of land— he goes to work, determined to make each year all the money out of it which he possibly can, int nding at the end ol tweniv years, or earlier, when it is worn out, to leave. He has his reward — he makes money rapidly, lor aw-hile — alterwards noi so rapi'ilv, at len-gih realizes very little — al last, he or his sop has to leave the old home, selling it for nothing. Another, with his thou- sand acres, pursues the opposite course — does not realize so much year'v sain from his crop • as the first, but secur s all the while an abun- dant return— fertilizing, instead of impoverish- ing his plantaiiun —with the comforts which ha- gathered around him, he finds at the end of twenty years that his land is wt'rth twenty thousand dollars. Who is the richer of the two, even in money 1 Then, iiKWCOver, he who felt all the while that be was permanently set- tled, has surrounded l imself with fiends, who love him, and whom he loves - has no occasion to sunder himself from (d i and tried neighbors —to break the ties which bind to familiar ob- jects, now infinitely dear from the familiarity of their faces— but may spend the declining years of a useful life in the enjoyment of the comforts which his long-continued efforts have gathered around him. THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR 115 First age to small to be represented. Moth. Cocoon. Moth and its AN ESSAY ON THE CEETEIIE AND H AN U FACT ERE OF Experience of past ages has fully proved that the c:irnate of the Unite 1 Scales is as wetl adapt- ed to toe nature and habits of the silkworm, and the production of silk, as that of any other country. Several varieties of the mulberry be- ing indiirenous in our soil, and those generally used in the native country of the silkworm suc- ceed equally well in our own soil and climate. Hence, from ihe nature and habits of American people, we must soon become ihe greatest silk gro wing nation on the earth. The first step i >- wards the | reduction of siltr, is to secure a sup- ply of suitanle food lor the silkworm. Having tried all the varieties introduced into our country, I find the morus raulticaulis and the Canton varieties, all things considered, most suitable for that purpose. PROPAGATION op THE MULBERRY. Although the experience of some years past has rendered this subject familiar to many, yet those now most likely to engage in the le giumate business of silk growing may be le.ss acquainted with the propagation of the tree. I shall give some brief directions on the subject. Almost any soil that is high anddry, and that will mature Indian corn, is suitable for the mul- berry. Thai, however, which is inclined to be light or sandy is the best The morus multicaulis may be propagatfd by nuttings or layers, (or a good variety may be raised from the .seed.) Cuttings maybe tit one or m >re buds planted perpendi ulaily in a light, mellovv bed of good soil. They should be planted when ih> spring has fully opened, or about the usual lime of planting corn. They may be planted in the rows, about 12 inches apart, and the rows at a sufficient distance to admit of thorough cultivation with a plow or cultivator. The ground should be kepi mellow until past mid summer. Select a suit ible piece of ground for a per- manent orchard. It would be well if broken up in the fall, and again plowed in the spring, and, it followed with the subsoil plow, it would be advantageous. After a thorough harrowing it should be laid off in rows each way eigk' leet by four, with the plow. The trees at one year old from the nursery should he taken up, the tops cut off near the roots, and one planted in each of the squares or hills. H. P. BYRAM, BBANDEKBURG, MEADE COUNTY, Having tried various methods of planting and different distances, f preferthose here given. This will admit the free use of the plow and Qa\\\yAiov b'tUi wavs. In latitudes north of 38 or 40^, where land is dear, they may be planted much nearer, ff a sufficient quantity of cuttings Irom old trees cannot at once be procured, the trees Irom the nursery should b? taken up in the tall, and bu- ried in a cellar, or upon the northside of a bank or hill, in alternate layers of trees and earth, and the whole protected by a shed from the rains of winter, as theplants seldom sufficiently mature, the first season from the cuttings, to withstand the winters fd a northern climate, particularly that portion above the ground. South ot 38® of latitude these precautions may not be necessary. The Canton mulberry is a more hardy kind, resembling in some degree the varieties known as the comm in Italian, producing a large, lull, thick leaf. This variety is prtipagated from seed a-’d frmi layers, but does not readily strike root from cutiings. In 1838, I procured a quantity of this seed Irom Canton, which produced a varie/y of plants Tnose produeing the greatest quantity ot fruit yield an inferior leaf. They are now propagating this variety very extensively at the silk growingestablishmeni at Economy, Pennsylvania, which, in connection with the morus muliicaul's, constitute the prin- ciple food used at this establishment. The (ruit should be gathered when fuliv ripe, and the seed washed out and dried. If south of the 3ff;h parallel of 1 ititude, they may be planted the same season. N-rthol this, they should be planted in Ihe following spring, in a bed of rich earth prepared as lor beets or onions, and planted in drills about apart. The young plants should be thinned to the dis- tance ol from one to three inches from each other. They should be well cultivated, when they will attain the height ot three or lour feet the first season. In the fall, in a northern cli- mate, tne voung trees should be taken up and protected during the winter, as directed for the morus multicaulis. ^ [This is not necessary in the Southern States.]— So. Cult. In the following spring the branches naay be taken off near the main stem, the top shortened, and the whole tree planted, completely covering roots and the main stem from one to two inches deep. In this way two or more trees may be produced from each plant If a full supply can be procured, the raofs of the young plants may at once be removed to the orchard. They may be allowed to s'and mu'-h nearer than the multicaulis, leaving only sufficient room for cultivation . When seed is required it would be well to plant out a portion Irom the seed bed at once, as standards lor this purpose, always selecting those bearing full, heart-shaved leaves. The leaves of the white Italian produce a good heavy cocoon, arid should always be used in the last age of the worms when other larger leaved varieties cannot'be obtained. cultivation. The mulberry orchard should be annually cultivated. The ground kept mellow and free from weeds until the middle of July, The fields should be divided into three equal parts, and. after the second .season from plant- ing, one third each year should b? cut down near the ground. This will cause a more vi- gorous growth, and an abundant crop of fo- liage, FEEDING apartments. Various plans have been proposed and adopt- ed for cocooneries or feeding sheds for the silk worms; none of which, I think, are without ob- jection, except a perfect laboratory, so con- structed as to be able to fully control the atmos- phere and temperature within. These, howev- er, would he too expensive, and require too much skill and judgment for general adoption. Open or shed feeding has been employed witn success of late years, and for general use may be the mo.st successful for family establish- ments, This, however, confines the whole bu- siness, particularly in the Northern States, to one or two crops in the season. South ot Ohio more can be succes.sfully fed. These sheds may be cheaply made, by setting some durable posts in the ground, say from six to eight leet high, with a root of shingles or boards. The roof should project two feet over the sides. There should be some lemporarr protection to the ends and sides of the 116 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR, perhaps the best and cheapest can be made of strong cotton cloth, (osnaburg,) three or four widths should be sow'ed together, with small rods across the bottom, which will answer as weights, and also as rollers, which, by the aid ol a pulley, may be rolled or let down, at plea- sure. The width of the sheds must be governed by the size of the hurdles or feeding trays used. The width that I have adopted is from eighteen to twenty feet. The length according to the extent of the leeding contemplated. Where it is designed locarry on an ex ensive business, a building should be constructed ex- pressly for the purpose. It should be on an ele- vated situation, convenient to the mulberry or-^ chard. There should be a cellar under the building. Any material commonly used for building may be employed. If of wood, wea- ther-boarded and plastered. It would be well to fill up the space between the two with tan bark or unburnt brick, or something of the kind, which will render the temperature' more uni- form. The width of the building should be twenty or twenty-eight feet. The former admit- ting of two, and the latter of three double ranges of hurdles or trays of suitable size. The length suited to the extent of the business de- signed. It should be two stories high, and so constructed as to be thoroughly ventilated. There should be two double doors in each end, with doors, windows, and ventilators in the sides. The windows should extend to near the tops of the rooms. There should be sliding ven- tilators near the fio ir. The windows may be filled with oiled paper or cloth, which will ad mit the light and exclude the sun. It would al- so be important to have under each tier of hur- dles, through the floor, two planks of ten inches width each, hung with hinges that they may be raised at pleasure by a pulley. Also an up- right ventilator on the root, hlted with blinds, through which a constant draft may be kept up. In one end of the building in each of the two doors there should be a ventilating wheel made of thin boards, (plank,) much after the form of the wheels applied to the stern of our steam propellers. These wheels should be about two feet in diameter. They should be put in motion for a few minutes every hour, or oftener in still weather. Both may be made to turn by one crank, connecting each by bands and whirls to the main shaft. An air furnace, such as is now employed in heating churches and other buildings, should be constructed in the cellar, and so arranged as to draw from the feeding rooms all the air neces- sary to supply the furnace. The air, when heated in the chamber, should be conveyed through the whole length of the rooms, in a square pipe with openings at short distances from each other, which should incr?ase in size as they recede from the furnace. These open- ings may be so connected as to be all closed at once, or a valve applied at the air chamber may be used to cut off the communication of heated air when the temperature is sufficiently high in the rooms, suffering the hot air to es- cape outside of the building. In the last ages of the worms the furnace will be found of great benefit, even when the heat is not required in the rooms, for the purpose of drawing oS and consuming the impure air of the cocoonery. At Economy, they not only make use of air fur- naces, but iu an adjoining building they have a large air pump constantly in operation, con- nected with the cocoonery by a pipe with small openings through the length of the building. This pump is kept in motion by a steam engine. With good eggs, when proper means have been employed for their preservation and the leeding apartments thoroughly ventilated, I do not know of a single instance where the worms have proved unhealthy. From the conviction that proper regard had not generally been paid to the ventilation of co- cooneries, in the summer of 1842 I commenced a series of experiments, by which I ascertained that the silkworm during its last age, consu.ned nearly its own weight of leaves daily; and that the amount of exhalations or imperceptible perspiration given off \n proporlion to the quan- tity ol food consumed, was about equal to that ascertained to escape from a healthy man. 1 found, from the most carefully conducted experiments, that the weight of one hundred thousand silkworms, about five days before their time of winding, was 458 pounds, and that they would consume daily 372 pounds ol leaves,* and that their increased weight in twenty-four hours from the food consumed was 46 pounds; and that the enormous amount of 206 pounds was given off in the same lime, in the form of exhalations or imperceptible perspiration alone. This, then, I think, fully explains the cause of disease complained of by many, and establishes the importance of ventilation in every possible form. In one corner of the building there should be a hatching robin, with which the furnace below should be connected so as to receive a greater or less degree of heat, as may be required, wi hour reference to the temperature of the feeding rooms. FIXTURES. In fitting up the hurdles or feeding shelves for a building of twenty feet wide; it will require a d'lable range of posts two and a half or three inches square, on each side of the centre of the room, running length wise, and the length of the shelves apart, in the ranges, and each two cor- responding posts, crosswise of the ranges, about the width ol the two shelves apart. On each double range across the posts are nailed strips, one inch or more in width and about fifiein inches apart, on which the trays or hurdles rest, which may be drawn out or slid in as may be found necessary in feeding. The aisles or pas- sagesof a building of the above width will be four feet each, allowing two feet for the width of ea"h single hurdle. The hurdles that I have used for many years are of twine net work A frame is first made five feet long and two feet wide, of boards se- ven-eighths of an inch think, and one and a half inches wide. Theie should be two braces across the frame at equal distances of fi ve-eignihs by seven-ei.hths of an inch square. On a line about half and inch Irom the inner edge of the frame are driven tacks nearly down to their heads, at such distances as will make the mesh- es of the net about three quarters of an inch square. Good hemp or flax twine is passed around these tacks, forming a net by passing the filling rfiJirWe over and under the war, , or that part of the twine that runs lengthwise. This twine should be some what smaller than that running lengthwise. On a damp day the twine becomes tight; 1 then give the net'ing two good coats of shellac varnish. This ce- ments the whole together and renders it firm and durable. The varnish is made by dissolving a quantity of gum shellac in alcohol in a tin covered ves- sel, and placed near the fire. It should be re- duced, when used, to the consistence of paint. Another set of frames are made in the same way and of the same size, and covered with strong cotton or tow cloth, this is secured with small tacks. Upon these the net frames rest, which serve to catch the litter that falls through from the worms. Hurdles made and supported in this manner admit of a more free circulation of air, and the litter is less liable to mould or ferment, and can be removed and cleaned at pleasure. With this kind of hurdle and screen, I make use of winding frames, constructed in the fol- lowing manner: A light frame is made ol boards one and a half inches wide, and the length of the hurdles, and two feet and lour inch- es wide; this is filled crosswise with thin laths about one inch apart in the clear. The manner of using these, will be hereafter explained. They answer the two-toM purpose of winding frames and mounting ladders. ’Had these worms been fed in the ordinary manner they would have consumed many more leaves in the same time. But to preserve the greatest possible ac- curacy, through the whole experiment, they were fed rather sparingly. The care and expense required in fitting up a house on this plan may prevent its general adop- tion. The most common method that has been heretofore eneployed is permanent shelves, but the labor required to keep the worms properly cleaned renders this plan objectionable. At Economy, Penn., the rearing of the silk- worm is now carried on to a great extent, and more successfully than in any other pa.i of the United Stales, or perhaps the world. Their bouses are two stories high. The worms are fed on small Ir^s about eighteen or twenty inches wide, and about three feet long. They are supported in the same manner as the hur- dles above described, and are about six inches apart. When the worms are about ready to wind, they are transferred to the upper story, to permanent shelves about sixteen inches apart, where they form their cocoons in bunches of straw placed upright between the shelves. The worms are cleaned at least once after every moulting, and after the last, everyday. For this purpose they have nets wove or knit, of cotton iwine, something larger than the size of the trays, with meshes of various sizes suited to the age of the worms. For the last age they are about three quarters of an inch square. They are used wiihiml frames. When it is re- quired to remove the worms from their litter, the nets are laid lightly over them, and then plentiful y fed. When the worms have arisen upon the fiesh leaves, they are removed by two persons taking hold of the four corners of the net and transferring them to clean trays, held and carried off by a third person. One hundred thousand are changed in this manner in two hours. DESCRIPTION op THE SILK WORM. It will he necessary for the inexperienced cuiturisi to have some knowledge of the forms, changes and appearances of the silkworm be- fore he enters upon the duties of his interesting charge. The silkworm is a species ol caterpillar, whose lile is one continual succession of chan- ges, which, in due time, becomes a moth or winged insect, like others of the genus. The time occupied in going through its dif- ferent forms of existence varies in different countries — governed by climate, temperature, and the quality and quaniity of the food upon which it is fed, and the nature of the particular variety of the msect. The worm changes or casts its skin (ol the common varieties) tour times before it attains its full g.'-owlh. These changes are called mouliings, and the periods intervening b-tweeu the several moultings are termed ages. When it is first hatched it is of a blackish color, which afterwards becomes lighter, varying almost daily to different shades, and in different vaiie- ties through every age, to the close of the last, or near the time ol spinning, when it assumes a grayish yellow .semi transparent appearance. • Having tried all (he varieties that have been introduced into the United States, those I con- sider the best are known as the Chinese Imperial, producing a large salmon colored peanut shaped cocoon; and a kind called the Peanut, produc- ing a mixture of white and salmon colored co- coons. This variety produces a larger and more firm cocoon than any of that name that I have seen. TIME OP HATCHINS— REARING. When the leaves ol the mulberry have put forth, to the size of about an inch in diameter, it may be generally inferred that the proper time for hatching the worm has arrived. The papers or cloths containing the eggs should then be brought out and placed in the hatching room, upon a table or trays made for tbe purpose. When artificial means are em- ployed, the temperature should be gradually raised until the lime of hatching, which will be in about ten days, to 75^* or 80° of Fahrenheit’s thermometer. But few worms will make their appearance on the first day, but on the second and third the most will come out; should there be a few remaining on the fourth day they may THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 117 be inrowa away, as theydo not always produce stroQo; and healihy worms. When the worms be^in to make their appearance, young mulber- ry leaves cut into narrow strips should be laid over them, to which they will readily attach thetnselvesj these should be carefully removed und placed conipaclly upon a cloth screen or tray, prepared lor them, and other leaves placed upon the eggs, for the worms that still remain, which should be passed olf as before. A sin- gular fact will be observed, that all the worms will hatch between sunrise and before noon ol each day. Care should be taken to keep the worms of each day’s hatching by themselves, as it is of the greatest importance to have the moultings and changes of all the worms as si- multaneous as possible. It is also important that the worms that have been transferred to the trays should not be led until the hatching for the day is completed, so that all may be led equally. Young and tender leaves should be selected to feed the worms with ; these should be cut viih a sharp knife into pieces not exceeding a quarter of an inch square, and evenly sifted over them. They should be led in this way six or eighttimes in twenty four hours, as near as possible at regular and stated periods. It will be impossible to lay down any definite rules tor the quantity of leaves necessary for a given number of worms for each succeeding day, through every age. Altera little acquaint- ance with their nature and habits, the intelli- gence and judgment of the attendant will be the best guide; they should, however, have as much as they will eat, but alter a few days care should be taken not to give them more than they will generally con^ ume, as this will in- crease the accumulation ol litter, which will en- danger the health of the worms. In the last age they eat voraciously, when they should be well supplied. A quantity ol leaves should always be on hand in case of wet weather. When the average range of the thermometer is between 70 and 80®, the several moultings will take place near the fifth, ninth, fifteenth, and twenty-second days after hatching. It may be known when the worms are about to cast their skins, as they cease to eat and remain sta- tionary, with their heads raised and occasional- ly shaking them. This operation will be more distinctly observed as they increase in size, through their succeeding ages. Assuming the above temperature as the stand- ard, the quantity ol leaves for the three fiist days of this (the first) age must be gradually in- creased at each feeding, after which they will require less at each succeeding meal until the time of moulting arrives, when, for about twen- ty-four hours, they eat nothing. But as it is seldom the case that all cast their skins atone and the same time, some will still be disposed to eat, when a lew leaves must be cut fins and soamig- ?y scattered over them, sothatthose that remain torpid may be disturbed as little as possible They must now be carefully fed in this way until it IS discovered that some have moulted, when the feeding must cease altogether until the most of them have recovered. This rule must be particularly regarded through all the succeeding moultings, otherwise some of the worms will be far in advance of others; and this want ol uniform.ily will increase through- out each succeeding age, and to the period of winding, which vvill not only result in great in- convenience in gathering the cocoons, but will materially injure the worms, and consequently lessen the crop ot silk. When i\\e greatest portion of the worms have moulted and appear active, leaves a little wilted are laid over them, by which they are passed to clean trays. If any still remain that have moulted, they must be transferred in the same manner, by laying more leaves upon them The remnant of worms that have not changed their skins should be left upon the litter, and added to those ot the next day’s moulting. By closely regarding these rules throughout the se- veral ages, the worms will generally all co.u- mence the formation of their cocoons about the same period. After having gone through and furnished all the worms with a quantity ot leaves, it is well to go over a second time and add more where they seem to require it. Very young and tender leaves must be given to the worms in the first age; after which older ones can be given, as they advance in age, until after the last moulting, when they should be fed upon sound full grown leaves." After the second moulting, the leaves, where large crops are fed, maybe cut by running them twice through a common rotary hay or straw- cutter of Hovey’s, or one of a similar make. The worms will frequently heap together and become too thick, as they increase in size; when they are fed, the leaves must be spread and the space erlarged,or they may be remo- ved by leaves or twigs of the mulberry to places unoccupied. If (hey are permitted to be crowd- ed, disease is apt to follow, and the whole crop endangered. It will sometimes be observed, when the light falls mote directly on one side of the hurdle than the other, that the worms will incline to leave that side and become crowded on the opposite, w’hen the hurdle should be turned around. Up to the last moulting it is best to feed the worms entirely upon the leaves of the multi- caulis; atter which, the Canton or white Italian should be used, it a full supply can be obtained —the former being consumed with greater avi- dity, aud the accumulation of litter is conse- quently less. The Canton and Italian produce the heaviest cocoon, whilethe multicaulis yields a finer and stronger fibre. In pursuing this course, the advantages of boiti are in some de- gree secured. The worms should be removed from their litter immediately atter each moulting, and in their fourth age the hurdles should be cleaned a second time, and alter the last mouliing they should b.e removed at least every second day. Where nets are not used, in the last ages the wi'rms are changed, by laying over them the small branches of the mulberry. Recently branch feeding, as it is termed, has been introduced with some success and with great economy of time ; in the last ages ot the worms care should be taken to lay the branch- es as evenly as possible, especially where it is designed to use twine hurdles, otherwise it will be difficult for the worms to ascend through the netting. When the worms are about to spin they pre- sent something of a yellowish appearance; they refuse to eat and wander about in pursuit ot a hiding place, and throw out fibres of silk upon the leaves. The hurdles should now be thoroughly cleaned lor the last time, and some- thing prepared for them to form their cocoons in. Various plans have been proposed for this purpose. The lath irames, before described,! prefer. They are used by resting the back edge of the frame upon the hurdle, where the two meet in the double range, and raising the front edge up to the under side of the hurdle above, which is held to its place by two small wire hooks attached to the edge of the hurdle. A covering; of paper or cloth should be ap- plied to the lath frames. In using the htirdles and screens, I remove the screen from under the hurdle, turning the under side up, and let- ting it down directly upon the winding frame. This affords double the room tor the worms to wind in. Lath frames of this description have advantages that no other fixtures .for winding possess that I have ever seen tried. The frame resting upon the back side of each hurdle ren- ders this side more dark, which places the worms instinctively seek, when they meet with the ends of the laths and immediately ascend to convenient places for the formation ot their co- coons. Prom these frames the cocoons are gathered with great facility, and free from litter and dirt, and when they are required they are put up with great expedition. Where branch feeding has been adopted by some, no other accommodation has been provi- ded for the winding of the worms than that af- forded them by the branches from which they have fed. This is decidedly objectionable as the worms are always disposed to rise until their course is obstructed above. When this is not the case, they wmnder about for hours upon the tops of the branches, and only descend after their strength becomes exhausted, and the result is, the production of a crop of loose, inferior co- coons. Next to lath frames, small bunches of straw afford the best accommodation for this purpose. Rye straw is preferred. Take a small bunch about the size of the little finger, and with some strong twine tie it firmly about half an inch from the butt of the straw; cut the bunch off about half an inch longer than the distance between the hurdles. They are thus placed upright with their butt ends downwards, with their tops spreading out, interlacing each other, and piessing against the hurdles above. They should be thickly set in double rows about sixteen inches apart across the hurdles. These may be preserved for a number of years. After the most of the worms have arisen, the few remaining may be removed to hurdles by themselves. In three or four days the cocoons may be gathered. While gathering, those de- signed for eggs should be selected. Those of firm and fine texture with round hard ends are the best. The smaller cocoons most generally produce the male, and those larger and more lull at the ends, the female insect. Each healthy female moth will lay from four to six hundred eggs. But it is not always safe to calculate on one half of the cocoons to produce female moths. Therefore it is well to save an extra number to insure a supply of eggs. The cocoons intended for eggs should be stripped of their floss or loose tow, which con- sists of irregular fibres, by which the worm at- taches its work to whatever place it is about to form its cocoon. These should be placed on hurdles, in a thin layer, and in about two weeks the moths will come out; always in the forepart of the day, and generally before the sun is two hours high. It laid upon a net hurdle (which is best) they will immediately fall through the meshes and remain suspended on the under side, where they are not liable to become entangled in the cocoons. As soon as the male finds the female they become united. They should be taken carefully by the wings, in pairs, and pla- ced upon sheets of paper, to remain until near night, when the female will be anxious to lay her eggs. Then take each gently by the wings and separate them, placing the females at regu- lar distances, about two inches from each other upon sheets of paper or fine cotton or linen cloth ; these should hang over a line or be tack- ed to the side of the house. In two or three nights the moths will complete their laying, when they should be removed from the papers or cloths. Frequently the males appear first in the greatest numbers, some ot which should be reserved each day, in case there should after- wards be an excess of females. They should be shut out from the light, otherwise they are liable to injure themselves by a constant flutter- ing of their wings. The female is largest, and seldom moves or flutters. KILLING THE CHRISALIDES. After the cocoons have been gathered, those that are intended for sale, or for future reeling, must be submitted to some process by which the moths will be trilled,, otherwise they will perfo- rate and spoil the cocoons. This is doneby va- rious methods. The most simple and conve- nient is to spread them thinly on boards, and expose them to thedirect rays of the sun. In a hot day many of them will be killed in a few hours, but they must be stirred occasionally, or some will be liable to escape the heat and after- wards come out. At Economy they place them in an air-tight box containingaboutten bushels, (the box should always be full, or if not, a par- tition is fitted down to the cocoon,) sprinkling evenly through the whole, beginning at the bot- tom, about three ounces ot camphor, slightly moistened with alcohol, and finely pulverized. The box is then closed, and the seams of the 118 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVA'l’OR. top coveted by jiasiingr strips oI paper over them They remain in this way about three or tour days. They are then spread out thinly in an upper loft to cure, where they should be cc- casinnally stirred. It will require some weeks to thoroughly cure them. Before carnnhoring, the dead and bad cocoons must be taken out, otherwise they will spoil the good ones. When it is convenient it is best to reel as ma- ny of the cocoons as possible immediately alter they are gathered, as they reel much more free- ly before they are exposed to the sun or dried. SUCCESSION OF CROPS — PRESERVATION OP EGGS. Repeated attempts have been made to feed a succession ot crops ol worms throughout the entire season from the same stock of eggs. In most instances success has failed to attend these efibrts. When proper means are employed and flue care observed, the eggs may be preserved and worms successlully raised until the feed is destroyed by the frost. In many year’s expe- rience I have never failed in this respect. In the spring of 18401 communicated to Miss Ranp, of Economy, my method of preserving eggs, which she immediately adopted, and has pursued it until the present time with perfect success, feeding from eighteen to twenty-five crops each year. The following is an extract of a letter from the Posiirasier at Economy, dated January 19, 1843: •‘Between May ard September, we raised near two millions of worms, in eighteen sets, of near equal numbers, afout a week apart, producing three hundred and seventy-one bu- shehs of cocoons. The last crop hatched the 9th of September and spun the lOih of October. We found no difference in the health of the different sets. We are of the opinion that the late keeping of the eggs does not bring disease on the worms, if they are kept right, and gra- dually brought forward as they ought to be.” It may be remarked that the qualities of the mulberry leaf are such in the latter part of the season that as heavy cocoons will not be produ- ced as in the fi’rst. A bushel ot the first crop raised at Economy, in the season referred to, pro- duced twenty three and a quarter ounces ot reeled silk, and the last crop, wound in Uctober, but nineteen ounces. About one month of the best part of that season of feeding was lost by the severe frost that occurred on the 5ih of May, which entirely killed the young leaves, and must have materially injured the crop of the season. My method ol preserving eggs is to place them in the ice house in February, or early in March or sooner if the weather is warm. For this purpose a box or square trunk is made, ex- tending fiom within one loot of the bottom of the ice to the top. This may be made in joints so that as the ice settles the upper joints may be removed. Th“ eggs should be placed in a tin box, and this enclosed in a wood one, and suspended in the trunk near the ice. The communication of warm air should be cut off bv filling the opening with a bundle ol straw or hay. The eggs should be aired fora few mi nutes as often as once in one or two weeks,al- ways choosing a cool dry morning; wh?n se- lections for succeeding crops may be made, these should be placed in anvjther box and gra- dually raised in the trunk for several days, avoiding a too sudden transition from the ice to the temperature of the hatching room. The ice house at Economy is connected with the cellar, the bottom of the former being 18 inches below that of the latter. A long wooden box extending into the ice house, level with the bottom of the cellar floor, contains all the small- er boxes of eggs. The door of the box opening in the cellar, is kept well '•losed to prevent the admission of warm air. They employ another ice house, sunk deep in the cellar, with shelves gradually rising from the ice up to the top ol the ground, upon which the eggs of succeeding crops are placed, and raised one shelf higher every day, until they are taken intoihe hatching room. The past season they have hatched about five ounces of eggs, or one hundred thou- sand worms every four days. DISEASES OP THE SILK WORM- The silk worm, like every other animal or insect, is liable to disease and premature death European writers have enumerated and descri- bed six particular diseases to which it is sub- ject. But in our more congenial cliinate no- thing is wanting to insure a healthy sit-ck ol silkworms, and a profitable rciorn from their labors, but to give them sufficient room, a regu- lar and lull supply ot suitable io< d, a strict re- gard to cleanliness, and a proper ventilation of their apartments. In excessively hot, damp, or sultry weather, in the last age, the disease known as the yellows sometimes occurs. Where open feeding is adopted some fine airslaked lime may be sifted on the worms once or twice a Aay b'fore feedinsc and the diseased and dead worms picked out and thrown away. In a regular cocoonery, properly ventilated and supplied with an air furnace, dry air should be made to circulate freely. But if the temperature isabove 80or85® the ventilating apparatus should be constantly emplcyed until a change of weather occurs or the disease disappears. A feeding house should be so arranged as to cut off all communication of rats and mice from the worms and the cocoons. REELING. We have now arrived at another branch of the silk business, which more properly comes under the head of manufacinring. Every farm- er who engages in the silk culture, in order to avail himselt of an additional profil, shoitld provide his family with a suitable reel, by the useol which, alter a little experience, he will be enabled to offer his silk in market, in a form that will greatly enhance its value, and much reduce the trouble and expense of transporta- tion. Reels can now be procured in almost any of the principal cities at a small cost, or they can be made by any ingenious farmer or carpenter. The reel now uniformly used is that known as the Piedmontese. . All attempts to improve this leel in its gene- ral principles, I believe, have failed. At Eco- nomy, fiowever, they have maCe an addition which may be found useful. It consists ol two pair ot wliirls, made ol w'ire, in the form ol an aspel to a reel, about four inches long and two and a half inches across from arm to arm, mak- ing the circumference about six inches. These whirls are set in an iron frame, and ran eac A upon two points or centres. Each pair is equi- distant, on a direct line, about eight inches apart, between the first guides and those on the traverse bar, instead ot making the usual num- ber of turns around each thread, as they pass between ihe guides on the reel. With this ar- rangement, each threaci'is taken from the basin and passed through ihtfirst guides, then carried over and around the two whirls, and where they pass each other on the top, the turns are made necessary to give firmness to the thread, then passing directly through the guides in the tra- verse bar to the arms of the reel, making each thread in reeling independent of the other. This enables the reeler, when a remnant ol co coons are to he finished on leaving the work, to unite both threads into one, retaining the neces- sary size; whereas both would he too fine if continued on the reel in the ordinary manner. DIRECTIONS FOR REELING. In family establishments, a common clay or iron furnace should be procured, to which should be fi ted a sheet iron top, about twelve inches high, with a door on one side, and a small pipe on the opposite side looonvey off the smoke; this top should retain the same bevel or flare as the furnace, so as to be about twenty inches in tiiameier at the top. The pan should be twenty inches square and six inches deep, di- vided into four apartments, two of which .should be one inch larger one way than the others. Thev should all communicate with each other at the bottom. In large filatures, a small steam engine to propel the reels, &c., and to heat the water for reeling would be necessary. Before the operation ot reeln g is Louunenc- ed, the cocoons must be stripped ot their floss, andassoited into three .separate parcels, accord- ing to quality, or of different degrees of firm- ness. The double cocoons, or tnose lormeo by two or more worms spinning together, 'he fi- bres dossing each other and rendering them difficult to reel, these should be laid aside to be manufactured in a different manner. After the cocoons have been assorted as above directed, the operation of reeling may be com- menced. The basin should be nearly filled with the sofLesl water, and kept to a proper heat by burning charcoal, or some ether convenient method ot keeping up a regular heat. The pre- cise temperature cannot be ascertained until the reeling is commenced, owing to the difller- ent qu lilies of cocoons; those of the best qual- ity will require a greater degree ot heat than those of a more loose and open texture; hence the importance of assisting them. Cocoons also require less heat, and reel much belter, when done before the chrisalides are killed, and the cocoons become diied. The heat of the water may be raised to near the boiling point, (it should never be allowed to bod,) when two or three handsfull ot cocoons may be thrown into one of the laige apartments of the basin, which must be gently pressed un- der waterfor a lew minutes, with a litile'brush made of broom corn, with the ends shortened. The heat of the water will soon soften the gum ol the silk and thereby loosen the ends of the hlaments; the reeler should then gently stir the cocoons with the brush, until the loose fibres adhere to it; they are then separated from the brush, holding the filaments in the left hand, while the cocoons are carefully combed down between the fingers of the right hand, as they are raised out of the water. This is continued until the floss or false ends are all drawn off and the fine silk begins to appear; tue fibres are then broken jfl and laid over the edge ol the basin. The floss is then cleared from the brush and laid aside as refuse silk, and the operation con- tinued until mostof the ends are thus collected. It the silk is designed lor sewings, about 25 fibres should compose a thread; if intended for other fabrics, from eight to fifteen should be reeled together; the finestsilksshoUid always be reeled from the best cocoons. The cocoons com- posing the threads are taken up in a small tin skimmei, made for the purpose, and passed from the large apartment of the basin to those direct- ly under the guides. As the ends become bro- ken they are passed back into me spare apart- ment, where they are again collected to be re- turned to the reel. The requisite number of fi- bres thus collected for two threads are pa.ssed, each, through the lower guides. They ate then wound around each other two or three times, and each carried through the two guides in the traverse bar, and then attached to the arms of the reel. The turning should now be commenc- ed with a slow and steady motion, until the threads run freely. Wiiile the reel is turning the person attending the cocoons must continu- ally be adding fresh ends as they may be re- quired, not waiting until the number she began with is reduced, because the inlet nal fibres are much finer than those composing the external layers. In adding new ends, the reeler must at- tach them by gently pressing them, with a little turn between the thumb and finger, to the threads as they are running. As the silk is reeled off the chrisalides should be taken out of the basin, otherwise they obscure and thicken the w'aier and injure the color and lustre ol the silk. When the w’dier becomes discolored it should alw'ays be changed. If in reeling the silk leaves thecocoon in burs or bunches, it i-s eviden the w'aier is mo hot, or when the ends cannot be easily collected with the brush, or, when found, do not run freely, the water is too cold. A pail of cold water should always he at hand to be added to the basin as it may be re- quired. When the cocoons yield their fibres freely the reel may be turned with a quicker THE S >1 ITIERN CULTIVATOR. 119 moil Ml i 11 q iicKr-r me inonon me &ino< iliei aric* bfUer will lie thesillc. When from fiurto six ourice'^ ha ve l.een reeled, the aspel may be taken uti that the silk may dry. The end should be I'a-tened so as to be readily found. Squeeze the silk together and loosen it upon the bars, then on ti e i>pposite side tie it with a hand of refuse silk or ) arn, then slide it off the reel ; dou- ble and a?ain tie it near each extremity. The quality of the silk depends much upon the art and skillful management of the leeler. All that is required to render one perfect in the art of reelin? is a liitle practice, accompanied at the beginning with a degree of andtiie exercise of jad^meab in keeping up ihe proper temperature ot water and the threads of a uni- form size. MANUFACTURE OF PERFORATED COCOONS. The perforated and double cocoons can be manufactured into vaiious fabrics, such a stockings, gloves, undershirts and the like. Be- fore the cocoons can be spun, they must be put into a clean bag, made of som^open cloth, and placed in a pot or kettle and covered with soft water, with soap (hard or soft) added sufficient to make a strong suds, and boiled tor about three or four hours. It they are required to be very nice and white, the water may be changed, and a small quantity more ot soap added, and again boiled for a tew minutes. After they are boiled, they may be hung up and drained; they should then be rinsed while in the bag, in fair water, and hung oat to dry, without disturbing them in the bag When completely dry, they mav be spun on the common flax wheel, by first taking the cocoon in the fingers and slightly loi>sening the fibres that become flattened do'vn by boil ng, and ihen spinning off from the pierc- ed end. The silk will run entirely ofi leaving the shell bare. Tne double cocoons may be spun tn ihesanae manner, but should be boiled separately. True Remedy for the Embarrassment of Cotlou Planters at the ^outh and South-West. From the Commercial Review ot the South and West. The inieresis of these sections are in a man- ner identical, their crops and mtide ol cultiva- tion being similar, the only difference to be dis- cerned is found in the greater productiveness at the present tune, of the soil throughout tne lat- ter The agricultural prospects and the doings of the planter will be considered more in reler- ence to the latter. Good men, and true, have devoted much at- tention to the agriculture of this country; they have given good and wise precepts; they have striven to change the present unpleasant s ate of afiairs ; and most assuredly have their la- bors been efteciual. There may not be any very marked change, but there has been much improvement in the mode of managing an es tate, which will in due time bear an abundant harvest. That the best is not done, that the precepts have not had lull consideration, any one mav see for himsell'; but no reasonable man could expect to change a routine of almost halt a century’s standing, in a lew months ; to change the habiis of a people requires almost an age; to see the change hascerimnly began, is sufficient; an I to show it, witness the sales of hay, pork, beef, imuton, wool, iruii, etc., from Mississippi, within the past eighteen months. The present price ol cotton is too low lor the Cotton planter, he cannot afford to make cotton when not yielding over rrom $100 to $140 per hand, h matters not how this stale ot agricultural depression was brought about ; whether it be caused by the tariff, whether by the banks loaning freely and thus causing in- crease I product, or how ; the important matter is not to quarrel about who, or what caused, but like working men apply the means to eff ci a change. Can a change be effected? What means should be applied? and when should the\ be applied ? are questions open for investigation. A writer in the third number of the Commer- cial Review, answers them at length; whether saiisiaciury lo itie . eopieoi nut, it is iioi lice es- sary to say. To strike at the root of the evil, it would be well lo examine the whole matter, as the lawyer would his case, or the physician his patient, not content lo lely on a few kaiements. The planter is regretting his peculiar hard lot; his negroes are worked full hours, and he receives a bare pittance ot the returns made to the manufacturer or to the sugar planter: he plants more coiton, works his negroes harder, drives all day and part of the night, and yet he complains. Like the nostrum vender, he will I ot be convinced that calomel is killing his pa- tient, buthegiveslargerandlargcrdoses. What i-. iht result? He is compelled to pay doctors larger bills for attentions on the sick, caused by over- work; l^e has to pay to Kentucky larger prices for mules and horses, and hemp, the price being increased by the increased demand; he wants more meat and more bread, owing to his not having time to make them : he has to make a greater show of wealth, as his poor neighbors who make less coiton and more meat and bread, and clothing, and colts, and stock generally, are beginning to buy conveyances fur their families to ride lo church in; he turns off an overseer every few months, and finally lamems, until he is weaiy, over his late. Should such a man be advised to hold on to his crop for better prices? Apply to the Legis- lature to give premiums? Make less cotton? Build up manufactories? Tnis has been done again and again. What then counsel him todo? Examine the case well, and let a planter who has long watched the course of events, act as a kind ot mentor, whilst you are making an exa- mination. Do you not see that on this planta- tion the negroes are over worked, although they are fed high; you see no small children; you hear not the cheerful song nor the laugh that comes from the happy negro. Tou will also please to ob'erve the beautilul quality ot the hay, pul up in handsome square bales; these bales are Irom Ohio, and goad hay it is. D> you mark the sacks that are lying there, they once contained corn that you will perceive was Irom a flaiboat, il you will lift a sack lo your no.se. Here, sir, is as neat an axe helve as was ever made in Connecticut; good bridles and good col ars, good back-bands, all, they cost a mere trifle. You will find excellent Lowell and good linsey, it being cheaper to buy than to make ; and besides, there is nothing saved even by working at this kind of work on wet days. You will find yonder a tine, sleek, well condi- tioned horse, he belongs lo the overseer; and near at hand you see the rough outside of a ve- ry good carriage horse, corn is loo scarce to leed him with. Ah! and there goes the plant- er; he has just returned from a political stump harangue, where the plantershave been discuss- ing the merits of the candi 'ates for the next Presidency. Shall we visit the house, and see the China and the silver, and the silk aoil lace, a.nd extra servants? No, no! We will noten- ter into the sanctum ol the injured one— he is an i jured man. The merchant and the manu- laciurer have conspired to put him down. En- gland determines to take his slaves from him: 'le is desponding, aoa cannot for the soul ot him go to work like the manufacturer, or the mer- chant, but expects the “good old times” to re- turn again. Have you seen enough. Canyon see what is first requisite? Let the planter jet to work himself, and turn off his overseer; let him matte his bread, his meat, ra ise a few colts and hay to leed them on ; let him increase the quaniiiy of corn and fo- rage until he can snare a little; let him take the interestin his- own business that the merchant or manufacturer must who expects success; let him learn his sons that idleness is the road to ruin ; let him leach his daughters that they are not dulls or milliner girls, but that they are the futuie makers or marrers of this beautiful re- public ; let him ever remember the old saying, “the master’s footsteps are manure to his land,” and we think he will ha/e less cause to repine, and more causa lo think that his *• lot is cast in happy places.” Good, very good, sir; you have now struck at the root ot the evil, and it is to be hoped that you wdl enter more mi utely into the particu- lars how all these matters should be eflTected. The question in the latter part ol the second paragraph are answered in a summary manner above, the answers fo low as evideniiv as cause precedes its effect; unless there was a remedy ihere would be lolly in talking of it. If the re- medy be not found in diminishing expenses, practising liugality and industry, and thus ot course diminishing the amount ot coiton for sale, then there is no use tosearch for a remedy. And if these things can and ought to be done, then promptness should be the watchword. The merchant who contr Is his millions, is found at- tending to his business; true, he has his clerks and porteis, but he is notthele.ss diligent. The lawyer is busy with his “ books” and “papers” all day and late at night. The physician can- not spare the time from his “prescriptions” and his “ visits.” The manulacturer, ever working “ short hours,” has to examine into the “ slate ol trade,” else he will lose his “ market.” Why then should the planter above all others be per- mitted to pass his days and nights in listless idleness. Has he exemption from “by the sweat of thy face, thou shall earn thy daily bread;” or, “he that will not work, neither shall he cat.” There is one thing certain, the planters of the South and Southwest must give up sloth and idleness; they must lake the lesson taught by Hercules to the wagoner: “ put your shoulders to the wheel.” Besides this, they must pursue a more mixed course ot husbandry, they have reeled long enough on the one thing, il IS high time another course was pursued. That manufactories would benefit this por- tion el the United Stales there is not a shadow of doubt; that Legislative aid, directed to de- veloping the latent facilities ot the country would, is evidently plain. That making less cotton would enhance the price is highly rea- sonable. But were all these done, and the present practice pursued, the improvement would be delusive. The redress to be effectual must commence at home; the improvement to be valid and permanent must start at the plant- er’s own house. Worth Knowing.— For the information of those who have been plagued by bugs devour- ing their beans, &c., we state the following ex- periment of our own : On that portion of our garden in which our beans, peas, &c. were planted this year, ashes were freely used as a manure, and not a bug has been known to trouble them, while in an adjoin- ing garden, only a lew feel distant, where ashes were not used, the bugs have been quite trou- blesome. Our neighbor discovering the differ- ence and suspecting the cause, a lew days since applied ashes around the roots ot his beans, (for he had discovered that at his approach the bugs would invariably conceal themselves immedi- ately at the roots,) which hasacted liKe a charm in expelling these intruders from that part of his garden. We would advise those who are plagued with these troublesome insects, lo try the remedy. — Andetson{S. C.) Gazette, To MAKE Ginger Beer.— Bruised ginger, 2 ounces; water, 5 gallons. Boil lor one hour, then add, when sufficiently cool, lump sugar, pounds; cream ol tartar, ounce; essence ot lemon, I drachm ; yeasty pint. Strain, bot- tle, and wire down the corks. 2. Loal sugar, 1 pound; rasped ginger, 1 ounce; cream ol tartar, f ounce; boiling wa- ter, I gallon. Mix and cover them up close for one hour, then add essence ol lemon, 15 irops; yeast, 2 or 3 spoonsful. Strain, bottle, and wire down the corks. To Destroy the Bee Mille.r. — To a pint of water, sweetened with honey or sugar, add half a gill ol vinegar, and set it in an open vessel on the top or by the side of the hive. When the miller coi.ies in the night, he will fly into the mixture and be drowned. 120 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVAl’OR ®l)e 00iitl)ern ^Hitlttuator, AUGUSTA, GA. VOSl.. IV.. KO. 8 AVGUST, 1846. Col. McDonald’s Proposition.— See ihe Card of the Pubhsheis in reference to the proposition of Col. McD. on the last page of this No. of the Cultivator. Hay. Those who have the means of making hay, will, of course, not neglect to attend to it in pro- per season. And that there will be abundant material wherewithal to make hay, this year, the copious rains we have had, give full assurance ; particularly if planters can be persualed that crab grass, if properly managed, will make as good hay as any other grass whatever. That crab-grass wdll be abundant we hear from all quarters. One anecdote connected with the luxuriant growth of this grass, w^e copy from the Marion {Ala.) Republican! “ Tall Grass. — We heard several planters, the other day, whose crops were like all others ‘ smartly in the grass,’ making themselves merry ever the following incident : ‘ Sam,’ said the overseer, ‘I give you to this stump as your day’s work.’ ‘ Yes, master,’ said Sam, ‘please shake the grass, so I may know where you is !” Not many years ago it would have been in the Southern States, rather a dangerous affair to a man’s reputation for good sense, to say anything about crab grass as an useful article. This was proved in one instance, at least, by the fate of our deceased friend, Bevan. He was a member of the Legislature, representing in part the county of Chatham, and was, we think. Chair- man of the Committee on Agriculture in the House ofRepresentatives. In a very able report which he drew up, he happened to recommend the careful culture of crab grass for the purpose of making hay. This brought upon him a storm of ridicule, the effect of which ho never got over. Almost every body about Milledgeville looked upon him as a fool. What, said they, recommend the culture of an article that we have been all our lives striving to get rid of — that has cost us more hard work, to keep it under, than all the other nuisances about our plantations put together ! — Why the man must be a fool, they said. Those times have passed away — and with them most of the men who were the foremost of their day. Better sense on this subject prevails now; and one may venture to speak in favor of crab- grass hay without much fear of ridicule, Men are disposed to look at their interest in the proper light now, and to turn even crab-grass to a pro- fitable account. Dr. Phillips, in a very good ar- ticle, copied on page 71 of the present volume of the Cultivator, boldly recommends the careful saving of crab-grass hay; asserting, that if saved early, it will be but little, if any, inferior to timo- thy. He recommends to let it lie, after cutting, about a day ; then to throw it up into heaps, and let it remain for two nights and a day; then to open it out to sun. It must never be spread out and exposed to rain or even dew. We have found crab-grass hay, saved thus, in every respect better than corn blades. And we do not hesitate to say, that looking to the injury and loss always occasioned to corn by pulling the blades off, it would be decidedly to the interest of e very plan ter, when the crop of crab-grass is good, to make hay of it in preference to stripping his corn of its blades. We will go even farther, and say that, when once properly tried, it will be found to be the interest of Southern planters to prepare ground carefully and sow crab-grass seed for the purpose of making hay. If our people could be persuaded to do this we might be spared the mor- tification of seeing northern hay brought to our cities for sale, and even carried into the country to Atlanta to feed the stage horses on the route thence to Chehaw. We subjoin an article on hay-making that con- tains hints that may be useful to those who are thinking of making hay this summer : HAY-MAKING. From the Albatiy Cultivator. Why not adopt the same rule in regard to the time of cutting clover and grass for hay, that is followed in cutting medicinal herbs 7 The object in both cases is to secure the intrinsic virtues of the plant. In curing herbs, as all acquainted with the subject admit, the most proper time for cutting is when they are in full bloom ; and it is also admitted that they should be cured in the shade, because if exposed to the more direct in- fluence of the sun and air, soire of their valua- ble properties would be evaporated. We know there is some difference of opinion in regard to the proper time for cutting grass. — The advocates for ripe hay contend that there is more “substance” in it, and that it will “go far ther” in feeding stock, than that which is cut while it is in blossom. And so we suppose there is still more “ substance” in scrub oak brush, and that it would go still fartherin feeding (not sup- porting) stock. Admitting there is more sub- stance in ripe grass, is it a kind of substance which affords nourishment to animals? Plants, at the timeofflowering, contain starch, gum, and sugar; all of which are known to nour- ish animals. In theformation ofseed, the stems and leaves are exhausted of these substances, and the substance which remains is chiefly woody fibre. But it may be said that the com- position of woody fibre, starch and gum, are nearly the same. Admitted; but this does not prove that animals are able to extract nearly an equal amount of nourishment from each. The composition of the diamond, the hardest of all substances, may be said to be similar to that of starch, gum, &c. — carbon being the chief element of all ; but the digestive organs of animals would hardly be able to convert the diamond into or- ganized tissue And though woody fibre, if eaten by catile or sheep, might “sticK by the ribs,” v/e think the ribs would not acquire from it much fat, or the system much strength. In some parts of the country animals are ac- tually^affenec^ for market on hay alone. This may sound strange to those who feed their stock only with clover and timothy which has gone to seed ; for we presume their stock was never thus fattened. But where this object is attained, the grass is cut while it is quite green, (not past bloom) and made and preserved svith great care. It is true there are some kinds of grasses— as the “ spite grass,” or “ Kentucky blue grass,” (Poapratensis) which makes but little bulk in seed stalks, the chief growth consisting of leaves which spring from the root. The greatest value in fodder would be obtained in such eases by al- lowing the crop to grow until it had acquired its greatest bulk. This remark, however, by no means applies to clover, or timothy, or the grasses usually cultivated for hay. In making hay, we would expose it to the sun and ah no more than is required to effect its pre- servation, for the same reason that is above given in reference to curing herbs. Clover can be cured— indeed it is more conveniently cured — with but very little exposure to the sun. If it is not wmt, and is fairly willed, it may be put with forks, into cocks, which will weigh, when dry, about fifty pounds each, and vi 1 effectually cure, Timothy also may be cured in the same manner. The finer grasses, when throwm into a body, pack more closely and afford less space for the air ; consequently, they require to be more thinly spread in the making. Excepting wiih clover, which we never spread out of the swath, our practice has been to spread out the swaths as evenly as posrible, if the burden is stout, as soon as the dew is off; in the after- noon, rake and cock it before the dew falls. We prefer putting it in cocks, even if it is no more than wilted, because the sweating it will there under- go in the course of twelve hours, will much fa- cilitate the making, and if the grass is coarse and hard, it will render it much more soft. Besides, hay that has been well sweated in cock, is not liable to ferment in the stack or mow. Whether the hay which was mowed and put in cocks on the first day will make so that it wull do to go to the barn on the second day, depends of course on its condition and the state of the weather. If all appearances indicate that the hay can be made sufldciently on the second day, (and repeated observations only can determine the degree of dryness which is required.) open the cocks and shake the hay out lightly, tho- roughly breaking all tlielocks with theTork. But it should not lie spread out later than three or four o’clock in the afternoon but should be put up again, or if dry enough, put in the barn by this time, lest it contract moisture. If from the condition of hay, or the appearance of the wea- ther, there is a probability that the hay cannot be made enough in one day, let it remain undis- turbed till the weather is favoiable. There are one or two other con.^iderations in favor of early cutting which we omitted to notice above. Itis admittedby physiologists thatplants exhaust both their own energies and the soil, more in forming seed, than in the whole preced- ing portion of their growth. Thus when grass is suffered to ripen, it gives but little after growth, and from the exhaustion mentioned, the sward more quickly dies out. Marl, In the last number of the Cultivator we had the pleasure of laying before our readers the con- clusion of Gov. Hammond’s admirable letter on Marl. We hope the whole letter has been atten- tively read, and that it will induce every one who has marl at command to commence the use of it atonce. And that it will have the farther effect of convincing those who have not marl, but can get lime, of the certain profit that must come of the liberal application of lime to their fields, whenever they can get it on reasonable terms. As to the result of marling in Gov. Hammond’s case, a Charleston paper says : “ Gov. Hammond’s experiments this season, with marl, are attended with a remarkable de- gree of success. He has upwards of 2, POO acres of his soil covered with it, which is likely to prove invaluable. Every body who sees the plantation of Gov. H., says the above journal, gives up his doubts and opposition One thou- sand acres of pine land, said to be originally very poor, arc in corn, which, from present appear- ances, can scarcely yield less than 20,f00 bushels — this is considered an immense yield in that section, for such a body, and all lying together, spotted as pine land usually is, and the Governor is of opinion that the land is very far from hav- ing reached its maximum yet; the impression is, that ‘he beneficial results of marling willshow themselves advantageously for 20 years. The effect of marl on his cotton crop, is equally as favorable as it is on the corn.” European Agriculture. We have received from the publishers at Bos- ton, the 6th part of Caiman's European Agricul~ ture and Rural Economy. Its contents are : Par- ing and Burning ; Burning Land ; Admixture of Soils; Improvement of Peat Lands ; Warping; An Experim.ent ; Straightening a River; Work THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. T21 in Ireland ; Drainage ; The Drainage of Farms ; National Characteristics; Tile and Pipe Draining, All these subjects are discussed with the au- thor’s usual ability ; and are illustrated b5' cuts wherever these are necessary to a full under- standing of the text. This number has a beau- tiful plate ef Southdown Wethers, engraved on steel. In addition to the intrinsic value ol the nratter contained in this number, there is a positive lux- ury in reading a book so handsomely printed. We are sorry that so small an amount of patron- age has been bestowed on this work by the South. The New England Farmer. This most useful and excellent paper in all re- spects, after an existence of twenty-four years, on the 24th ult., sunk into “ that sleep that knows no waking.” Among all our exchanges, but few were regarded by us as equal in solid substantial usefulness to the JVew England Farmer. We are sorry, very sorry indeed, that its fate could not be avoided. Southern Independence, The lime mentioned in the following letter was not received until after our arrangements were made for the July number of the Cultiva- tor ; we were compelled, therefore, to postpone a no-tiee of it until nown Having examined it, we take great pleasure in saying, that, like near- ly all the Southern lime we have seen that was properly burnt, it is just as good as there is any need of, either for building, or to be applied to the soil. The terms on which it is offered are stated in the letter. Every man can determine for himself whether he can afford to use it for agricultural purposes. This much is certain, that lime, being in the practice of agriculture pretty much what calomel used to be in the prac- tice of medicine, planters can afford to give a great deal more for it than they will believe be fore they try it. In Delaw^are, it is confidently asserted, by a writer in the Farmin' Cabinet, that any prudent, industrious, working man, can lime and clover the_ worn-out land of that State, and he will receive in two years, or in two crops, as much grain and grass, over and above all which the land would have produced without lime or clover, as will pay for the lime, and cost of hauling, and spreading, and interest. Land in Newcastle county and in Cecil county, Md., bought ten years ago at $10 and $20 p?r acre, is now worth $40 to 330, and the owner not out one cent for improvements beyond the clear income from his improved lands. The crops will dou- ble in two years from the use of 40 bushels of lime per acre ; in five years they will increase so as to sell for three times the original cost. Can there be any doubt that, over all the South- ern Slates, the like results will follow from the application of lime to the soil 7 To the Editor of the Cultivator; Sir Mr. Denmead and myself have opened a Lime Q,uarry in Cass, and I have directed a barrel to be sent you as a specimen. VVe can sell it at the kiln, unslaked, at 15 cents per bu- shel by the car load of 170 bushels. Persons having occasion for its use either as a manure or for other purposes, would do well to furnish their own boxes or barrels as it will greatly lessen the cost to them. Respectfully yours, Charles J. McDonald. ]\Iariit!a, June 12, 1846. Pennsylvania Farming. Mr. Gowen has long been famous for the large income he manages to get from a small .''arm near Philadelphia. He doubtless has a very great ad- vantage in his convenience to the Philadelphia market, but to his very superior management is chiefly due the very extraordinary income he en- joys from a farm of only one hundred acres, and with an annual expenditure for wages of about one thousand dollars. Mr. G., in a late number of the Farmer's Cabinet, gives the result of his last years’ operations, as follows: — “I raised no less than one hundred and twenty tons of hay — say at S18 per ton is . .$2,160 00 400 bushels of wheat, a-t. . . .$1.00 400 00 300 do rye. 80... too do oats 40.. . . . . 40 00 1000 do corn 60. . . 500 do potatoes. . . . . , 75. , . 900 do cat rots.. . .. . 40..., 600 do ruta-baga. . . , . e • 600 do s-’jgar-peas, , , 40... 1500 do turnips 124.. 187 50 15 hogsislaughlered weighing 45 cwt , at S5 per cwt 225 00 Cattle, calves and pigs, sold 347 00 Actual sales of milk and batter, over.-. 1,400 00 S6,724 50 Independent of milk and butter, meat and vege- tables, poultry and fruit for family consumption. While jiroducing this, I maintained upon the farm upwards of fifty head of cattle, seven horses, and some thirty head of swine, and the only out- lay incurred for feed during the year 1845, was about three hundred dollars of ship- stuff’ or mid- dlings, which was principally fed to the horses with finely cut timothy hay, and part made into slop for the swine. The horses had no other feed — they get neither corn nor oats, and the hogs when fattening, had little else but imperfect ears of corn, a little slop, and occasionally small po- tatoes cooked for them. “ How can H. S. or any of his brother farmers of the old and easy-going school, make a better exhibit in proportion to their outlay and number cf acres they hold? If they can, T should be pleased to see it, and to be permitted an opportu- nity of examining into their practice, the condi- tion of their land, the character of their Stocks, &c — while T here invite him to visit Mount Airy, and judge for himself. The stock now consists of 51 head of colvs, heifers and calves, principally thorough bred ’Durhams; 5 brood sov/s, and 20 shoats, to be fed for next winter’s slaughtering.” The editor of the F’etr/reer’s Cabinet lately spent . a day with Mr. Gowek, at Mount Airy — and in his paper for June, vve have the following ac- count of Mr. G.’s management : ‘‘The day was spent with James Gowen, at Mount Airy, whose land lies mostly on the east j side of the Germantown road, some eight miles I from the ciiy. The readers of the Cabinet, by means of its occasional communications, are w’ell acquainted with his good farming, and its consequent results — large crops. His farm lies beautifullv, and his fields of grass w^ere splendid His hedges too, of the Madura thorn, or Osage ! Orange, look thrifty, and promise to do well, j His spring wheat, and lucerne, and oats, and j corn, sown broadcast for soiling, showed that j they had been put in the ground by the hand of | a master, who intended they should produce j well, or the failure should not lie at his doer. | The cattle have been so repeatedly exhibited at i our agricultural shows, that the readers of the [ Cabinet know more of them than the editor can I tell them. They are truly a splendid lot of Dnr- j hams, and though some eighieeii or twenty have been lately sold, to lessen the labors of the dairy, the remainder — about thirty — make a fine display in the pasture. We remarked the milk dripping from the udder of Dairy Maidd.s she stood lei- surely chewing her cud. Thg yard and shrub- ! bery around the house are just what they should j be, showing very plainly the delicate and guid | ing hand of a mistress, as well as the stronger one j of~a master. When you get among the out- | buildings — the barns and sfieds — you might na- turally enough conclude you had. stumbled into the village. We liked their arrangements, and the neatness of every thing connected with them. There was a place for everything, and everything was in its place- The thorough mea- sures adopted for the saving of every thing that might be turned into manure, were very obvious. We could find no little ditch to carry from the cow-yard its juicesinto a neighboring ravine, but on the contrary, means were adopted to save and to abs rb every liquid of the stables, and to car- ry into a general reservoir the slops, soap suds, &c.. of the kitchen — all was saved. Our friend at 3Iount Airy does not act upon the idea that he can afford to waste his manures at home, and come to Philadelphia to replace them by pur- chase. In the different sections of stabling was the keg of plaster, and < very day some was strewn on the floor to absorb the ammonia, which from its volatile nature would otherwise be wasted. The heap of poudrette, that was of course under shelter ready to be used on corn that was then being planted, was carefully cover- ed an inch or two with plaster of paris, that ev- ery particle of its virtue might be retained.” Yankee Farming. A traveller from the West is recording the im- pressions made on him during a recent visit to New England, in a -series of very clever letters which are published in the Western Farmer and Gardener. From one of his letters we make an extract, v/ith the hope that it may aid in correct- ing some of our Southern bad habits. Though his blows are aimed at the West, they arc none the less palpable hits at the South. ‘“ Bostov, 3Iass., May 16, 1846. ‘‘Eds Far. and Gard : — There, sirs, I have seen the good and bad, the rich an 1 poor sides of New England farming. Travelling through the Connecticut valley from Hartford to Hanover, takes one through the paradise of New England, and in ju.'-'tice to the valley, I set it down as an extremely fertile and highly cultivated tract, which renders a full return for all the skillful la- bor given to Its tillage. But leaving Hanover, New Hampshire, and going down to Concord, gives the other side of the picture, and you may see what a stony, sterile country New England is. A vegetable garden here, looks to me much like a western gravel walk, and the pasture lots resemble stone quarries ; the corn fields I could not find, for corn is not yet up, and with some little skill in guessing, I gave it up ; for where under heaven, earth and moisture forcorn can be found, is a mystery to me as yet. ‘‘ But there is a bright side to New England farming, frtmr vchich we Westerners ought to take a lesson. I noticed chiefly great and skill- ful economy by every device that a Yankee brain can start to save a penny, or render useless things useful. This is evident in a thousand points. To use up old stumps, drawn out bodi- ly, roots and all, they lay them roots to the road, and makine secure and picturesque fences; to clear the fields of stone they chuck them toge- ther in long rows around the border, and call thorn stone fences; if a hill has an inch of soil upon it, a “side-hill plow” cultivates it ; if the grass and moss of a peculiarly barren stone quar- ry won’t keep a cow alive, it answers to keep a dozen sheep nibbling through half the year ; if a swamp is too wet to be productive under culti- vation, it yields muck for land less fortunate. There you see no rails lying round to rot and waste ; no cornstalks in the feed yards; no cobs in the manger; the barns and houses are all in fine order, neat and commodious ; and the wood houses at this time (spring) are already filled up with sawed and split wood, seasoning in neat piles fur the summer and winter consumption, a providence that I never saw in any Western State. Itwouldseem that a Yankee farmer does not know what an idle moment means : ram or shine, cold or warm, he always finds useful and appropria'e labor, which is sure to tell in his fa- vor in the final result “I could not help thinking, wfith some mortifi- cation to my western pride, how ditTerent the west would appear; how much richer her re- sources and rapid her growth, if New England industrv could be allied to her e.xhaustless fer- tility ! Co-mpare, for instance, the crop of “sod corn,” as raised upon the prairies of Illinois, with the equal produce of a field cultivated here with hard incessant laPor. In the former, a yoke 122 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. or two ot oxen and a boy to drop seed, wil in a week ensure a laiger crop than the labor o* five men, and horses to match, protracted through six or ei ht weeks, in the lattei ; in one case the labor is to p ant and harves' ; in the other the labor is in cultivation — hoeing, hoeing, hoeing ! “ Here, too. is to be seen the triun phs oi "bookjarming;" systematic drains, which a ci- vil engineer might be proud of; judicious ma- nures, making the land produce what nature never knew she was capable of; select orcliards elegantly pruned and cleaned ; convenient barns; blooded stock, and cleanly, spacious dairies The traveller sees in the road no live stock to turn it into a cattle yard, rendetin ir it a path pe- rilous to a pedestrian ; no swine to run over, whi'e it’ many places h is surprised to see high cultivation in fields totally without fenees. There seems to be two ways of protecting a farm ; one to enclose the fields and theothitr to fence in the catt e, and I would susrgest to western farmers, whether it w’ould not take fewer rails to do the latter than are now used to enclose their mile- square larms?” ©riginal Commnnications. Figs and Wiiie» Mr. Camak — Dear Sir ; From some observa- tions you made on drting figs in the South, and the odious quality of the imported, an t about fo- reign wines, I am induced to expatiate a little in the vein opened thus in respective Nos. of the Southern ('ultivator. The sandy Si.il of our sea coast and alluvial piny woods, are bounti'utly fitted for the fig cul- ture. Not .‘'myrna has better adaptations. If but a solitary p anter cou'd. in Chatham, or Liber- ty, or flamden, be induced to forego Cotton, and turn hi? attention to groves of fig trees, and to their ul i uate manufacture (in drums) for home consumption or exportation. n of the operaiive, it always in the end ab- sorbs domination and remains alone i The fact appears 1 1 a scrutinizing observer to be thus— that while cotton, from its long and re- gular ru’tivation, makes a steady revenue, the experiment on more novel plants promise so lit- tle, side bv side with that stapleofourcommeree, that the enterprise is soon abandoned as com- paratively hopeless, or a losing business — forget- ting that thrih and wealth cannot be introduced at once, as bv a Lamp of Aladdin that lime, care and perseverance, under disappointments and discouragements, mu-st have progress upon the fig, the grape, or the muiberry. When these plants can be matured by constant application of time and labor, so as to be placed beyond contin- gency, abundant wealth, or rather a sure compe- tence, may all at once reward the industrious and the provident. Until .-ome such persever- ance as this, and abandonment of every other culture be carried upon the tide of experiment, it would be vain to loak for any radical or lutida- ment.al introduction of any thing into any fami- ly, superceding cotton. Go back a centurv, to the time when mankind on this comment began to plant cottan. What dis'’ourag8ments, wh't apoarently insuperable difficulties env roned our ancestors? Resolu- tion and patience surmounted all — however long it was before cotton brought a single dollar to the pocket. It is a maxim that has become an axiom, that the most lucrative employment, be- fore it can ever confer opulence upon its constant fosterers, is, for a great while, useless, or barelv remunerating. The progress of things on earth is, at first always terrapin like. Truth, i'seR, moral and political, moves with the same oii- ginal tarriness. gaf, phys cal veracity be t-xe ' pt from the common lot ol theories emerg- ing into practice ? It wou d be far better, if people could, Vke fccdsfs. dispense entirely with intoxicating bevf r- ages — by all means with “Icohol — if men could have the simpltci'y of those t'hephern’s, in re- mote times, to whom Icariu-! nrrt taught the use of w'ine. and who, findin.' thoir heads turned, slew him as having poisoned them ! The strong- est i; an of whom we have authentic record. Siamso.., never was allow'ed wine. The loss of his seven locks, or inebriation, appears the same a.s respects himself. Although it is recorded, Jesus Christ made water wine, vet what evidence have we that the Heaven wrought fluid, had any of that celeterious property, which is more or less innate wi’h eat th-born wines? Siil, sofar from confining wines and liquors to their natu- ral and inevitable unsoundiiess — vintners, dis- 'illers and wine merchants, adulterate so much in the bulk of what is sold about this country, that men cannot be sufficientlv cau'ious in what they drink. The seeds of disease lie in ambu?h in many a decanter of glistening drink. Some p.nsons don’t manifest themselves till months after being taken. I doubt if what is called our sweet wines, and sold by confectioners in every villa, has ever kissed the grape. They are poison, as you al- lege. Genuine Madeira ar.d Port from ports, however cisgustingly prepared in those coun- tries, are scarcely ever drank in our State Even these wines have some addition of sugar, brandy and flavoring substances, to render them pala- table— things, those from the best kii'ds of grapes do not require. How necessary then that our honest people lake into their own clean hands the manufacture of the pure iuice of the grape — which is comm nly drank in France, Spain, etc. as we do cider or ale ? To extract from a work I have on hand : — ‘‘There is perhaps no kind of merchandize in which the public is more deceived than in the qualities of ardent spirits and wines. To ill us trace this, it is only neccssarv to observe, that Holland gin is made by distilling French brandy with juniper berries, but most of the spi- rits sold under that name consist only of rnm or whiskey, flavored with oil of turpontiue Genuine French brandy is distilled from grapes ; but the artie'e usually sold underthat denomina- tion is whiskey or rum, colored with tr' acle or burned sugar, and flavored with oil of wine, or some kind of drug.” By authority of the same work, I learn that lead, copper, antimony and even corrosive sub- limate are used in rendering sour wine drinkable. And, some years ago, I read of a rich London mer- chant, who thus so impregnated his bad wines, as ,0 cause many thousand of his unwary cus- tomers to die of lingering and insidious mala- dies, whose origin net even suspicion could de- tect. I forget whether or not he confessed this on a death bed — but that is probable. How many die without giving this confession of the hidden horrors of their trade ? How dangerous is the wine and liquor trade to health and life, even when unadulteratrd. How much more fatal w'hen adulterations make up the bulk ? In ev ery suspicions oaseot negotiation, and more than so, our planters ought to be their own and the wine merchants of their fellow-citizens who will have the viands. Vours, J. J. F. The Growing Crops, &c. Mb. Camak: — I feel it due to the readers of your excellent agricultural journal, that I turn aside from the mo'e active duties of the farm, for a short time, and lay down the hoe, or stop the plow, until 1 can inform them how we are moving on down here South ; as there is no mat- ter that finds its wuay into our agricultural jour nals I read with so much i.nte''est as I do the ■=ituniion of the crop while growing. Judging others by myself, I will avail mjserf of the pre- sent leisure moment to let my brother farmers know that the growing crop, through this sec- tion of the country, looks remarkablv well at this time. We have been blessed with frequent showers; indeed, there has tallen ou’ a^out rain enough to keep up a sufficient moisture to keep crops growing, while there has not fallen out so much as to prevent the working the cotton and c mn. We make so little small grain in this re- gion o country that it is but little in the way of regularly going on with the cleaning the grass from the great Southern staple ThiSr and put- ting the corn crop (which is only secondary to the cotton crop in point of number of acres ) in order for the reception of rain. As lor a hot sun we have that in its full power. I loundit much cooler last year in Illinois in J uly than it is here in May. But I said I had turned aside from the more active duties of the farm to take up the pen lor a short time. I entered on the responsible du- ties of managing my farm on the the 12ih day of May. since which lime, I have spent some twelve hours each day in superintending the opeiaiions of my farm in person, l am at presenl without a manager or overs, er. While on that subject, should you be acquainted with a young man who wishes to make son eihing of hiiuself in the way of a f rmor, that desires a binh as over- seer, I would thank you to recommend him to me. I have made an effort to raise wheat of differ- ent kinds, so as to get one that would grow in this climate that would not take the rust. While at Washington City I bought from the Patent Office some fine varieties. Oneot these has suc- ceeded admirably well. I sowed p.llonibe23d September, and cut the whole the 25ih of May. Four out of the five varieties took the rust to someextent. One escaped entiiely. I m much pleased with the Multi'.ale Rve and the Polish Oats. I have raised near a halt a bushel of seed of both the past season. A friend of mine, Maj. Lee, of this county, sent me some time past some ol the Southern Hemp or Bear Grass that he prepared hin.seifin this county. I have no doubt, from the speci- men before me, but that it will fully come sp to the representation given by Gov. Call, ol Flori- da, to Gov. Moseley. I find, at this time, the most happy efiec's pro- duced by the compost manure I have spread out. I have two fields, one of forty acres, he other of thirty, both cleared the same year; both have been in cultivation seven years, the land origi- nally poor pine land. I marled the forty acre field ; the thirty acre field I put no manure on. I am thinning the lorty acre field that is laid off in rows five feet wide, two feet between the cot- ton stalks. In the thirty acre field the rows are three, and a h ilf feet wide, and the stalks of cot- ton are left about twelve inches apart; so that I am flattered at this time that my experiment, for it is an experiment, in this region ot country, will turn out well. Still, I know it is much too early to form any opinion as to the cotton crop. There is but little fear with us as to the corn crop. It wi'l be far supedor to last year, as we suffered much for want of rain during the months of May and June, whereas, this year, we have had quite a bountiful su[ ply < f lain. I am, as ever, your friend, Alexanpes McDonald. Eufaula, Ala.. June Iti, 1846. Smut ill Oats* Mr. Camak : — I see an inquiry made over the .signature of P. W. J. in your. I uly number of the Cultivator, the object of which v-as to ascer- tain, it possible, the cause ol smut in oats, and a remedy for the same. He nuniions that the first and most general opinion is that it is owing to unripe seed. To this opinion I agree, and as a remedy to avoid said disease in the oat, 1 pio- pose to P. W. J. that he obtain seed oais two years old and sow tlum, and. my word for it, he will find very little, if any, smut in his crop. At all events, this is my experience ; for 1 was, dur- ing my farming opeiaiions, as much annoyed with this disease in oats asP. W. J., and on re- sorting to this expedient, found, as I supposed, and think yet, a sovereign remedy for the smut in oats. The conclusion drawn from this experiment was, that the imperfect and small seed, by reason of age, lost their germinating powers. 1 tried a similar experiment with my wheat (having not entiie confidence in the use of blue-stone, as is generally used by farmers.) and found the same happv result. I obtained a coarse sand sieve, sufficiently coarse to let through all the small and imperfect grains, and had my seed wheat tho- roughly riddled, and the result was, that there could scarcely be found a head of blasted wheat in my crop. This se^d was taken from a crop THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 123 badly blasted Out of wheat seed I sowed an acre without riddling, which was so badly blast- ed that it was not worth cutting. Mv experience is, that the most propitious time for sowing when the season comes round, for small grain, both wheat and oats, (%c., is when your land is moderately drv. As for set davs or moonocraev, I know nothing. If you think these undigested hints will be of any benefit to P. vV J you can give them a place in your valuable Cultivator. Resoecttnll V, D. G. Busbyville, Houston Co., Ga., July 7, 1346. Liibertj' County agricultural Society. Mr. Camak: — In accordance with aresolu- tion of the i iberty County Agricultural Society, I send you for publication, an Address delivered by Mr. .T. B. Mallard, before that body. Very respectful v, W. S. Baker, R. S. Riceboro, June 19, 1646. ADDRESS. — Extracts. Gentlemen: — The object ot your Society, in the words of the second article of its constitu- tion, is “ to advance the science of Agriculture In its various depanmenfs.” The object of agriculture is to incre^'se the quantity and improve ihe quality of such vege- table and animal productions of the earth, as are of use to mankind in a state of civi’izaiion. “The perfection of agriculture, as an art, im- plies the obtaining of the greatest amount of products from the earth, with the least injury to the land, and at the least cost of labor.” Agriculture appears to be the first pursuit of civilized man ; and though it may not, with cer- taintv, lav claim to a divine appointm.ent, it would be no difficult task to show that it is an art of no modern origin. Cain was a tiller of the ground. Noah plant- ed avineyard and became a husbandman. Job had seven thousand sheep, three thousand ca- mels and five hundred yoke of oxen. Cato, the Statesman, the Orator and the General, was also a practical farmer. VV^hen Lucius Cincin- natus was sought by the terrified Romans, and entreated to become their leader against the Sa- bines, alreadvat the walls of their city, he was found in his field, leaning on his plow. Augustus was not ignorant of the close con- nection between the cultivation of the soil and the prosperity of a country, and he engaged Virgil to write a treatise on Agriculture; on the publication of which, Italy assumed a flourish- ing appearance, and its inhabitants, who had been impoverished by wars, found themselves in the midst of plenty Although we are placed by the beneficent Au- thor of our existence, within reach of the me ns of acquiring the necessaries and comforts of life, yet the actual possession of these blessings de pend, in ' great measure, on our own exertions. Even the scanty stibsistence of the savage can only be gained at the expense of toil and expo- sure. The prod ucts of his wild forests are to be gathered with labor, .and he is often compelled to leave his encampment, and to wander far away in search of game. The necessity under which we are to labor for our bread, and the desire of man, in civilized coinmnnities. to surround h'mself with c imforts, have given rise to various pursuits. There are arts, there are trades, there are professions. To discu?s the que.^tion, which pursuit ranks highest in the scale of usefulness, would be use- less and uninteresting. Every pursuit that is honest and moral in its tendency ought to be respected and ought to be encouraged. “ Honor and shiine from no (employment) rise.” Let each one, in the business that he has chosen, “ Act well his part, ihere all the honor lies.” No calling of honest industry ought to be de- spised. Who can say to his mighbor, I have no need of tlu-e? There was a time, it is said, when the mem- bers of the human frame became dissatisfied They could see no reason why they should toil for the benefit of the body. Imagining that the body was actually growing fat, in consequence of the large profits it was deriving from their la- bors, they threw themselves on their reserved lights, and formally resolved that they would not, henceforth, pay anv regard to the du'ies with which they were taxed. The Iran is thought it a g'eat imposition that thev should '-■e req' i ed to hold the plow, and that the products of their labor should accrue to the body, b-'o they refus- ed to carry anything to 'he mouth. The lips declared that they would no longer act as a safe- ty valve to some great machine, and so they re- ''used to open. Ti e teeth thought it a hard case that they should g ind for so small toll. So they re.so'ved to get along independent of the body. After a while the body began to fail ; but, in the meantime, the hands became shrivell d, the lips became pale, the teeth became loose, and the members became convinced that there was a close connection betwern themselves and the body, and that good terms between them, and a mutual exchange of products, were necessary to the growth, the vigor and activity of the whole system. It may not be altogether untrue, that, “.of all the maney-makins hast, Doctors and Lan yers well maybnast, That they shave men the cleanest.” Yet, SO long as we are subject to disease, we shall need the services of those persons who make it their business to inquire into the nature of diseases, and to find out, as far as they can, the means of affording relief. And so long as our legislators use words of nmhiguou? meaning we shall need men whose business it is to endea- vor to know the laws of the land, and to be well versed in the principles of jurisprudence. . . But a’lhough it would be invidious to draw a comparison between the different pursuits of men in civiffzed life, we presume it wall not be questioned that it is your pursuit, gentlemen ; It is the business in which you are engaged that spreads the great and bountiful table, at which the mighty family of civirzed man receives its daily food. Agriculture always has been, and Agriculture always will be, the great source of support to every community. The cotton and the wool and the flax, out of which our clothing is made, are the products t.f agriculture. It is the ft^eder of every other branch of industry. It freights the vessels of commerce and drives the spindles of the manufacturer, Itm.akesusfami- liar with the works of nature, and discloses to our adoration the wonderful operations of a be- neficent Providence. To the cultivator of tlie ground each ear of corn and each blade of grass speak of the benev- olence and skill of the great Contriver. He who can observe a shrivelled seed giving birth to a towering plant, and the earth, a if obedient to his will, in return for his la'-ors, Ailing his barn” with plenty and have no feeling of love or reve- rence for Him, whose power is seen “In all that hreaflies or moves or grows, TTofoldiiig every hud. Each blossom tinging, shaping every leaf,” can scarcely lay claim to the character of a ra- tional being ! Agricu'ture is the foundation of national wealth. It fixes men in stationary dwellings, and inciting in them a love of neighborhood, of country and of home, it prompts them to under- take measure.s and to pursue plans for the im- provement and theembehishment of their home- steads, which, while they contribute to the hap- piness of individuals, enrich the nation and ele- vate its character. How striking is the contrast, in point of wealth, between the condition of those countries that were settled by men who gave theri attention ti the cultivation of the ground, and those that were sett ed by adventurers who were too greedy of gain to wait the slow process of agriculture. The American plantations of Elizabeth and Charles and George have grown to be r ch and flourishing States, whilst Mexico and South America arepoor and mi-erab!e and embarrassed Agriculture is both a science and an art. “The knowhrdge of the condition of the life of vege- tables, the origin of theirelements. and the sourc- es of their nourishment,” says Liebig, “form its scientific basis ” It is very generally known lint if a field be planted in corn for n number of years in succes sion, it will lose its fertility for the production of corn, and also that some land will bring corn but will not p”oduce cotton. Now what is the rea- son of this? Why will afield lose its fertility for a plant that formerly flourished there? And why will one kind of p'ant succeed in a field where another wi I not grow ? It is the pan of science to answer these ques ions; and from the answi rs given certain rules are deduced for the exercise of the art of agriculture — ct rtain principles on which depend the mechanical ope- rati‘>ns of farm ng. .Science i- farming without piactice is worm nothing. But j raciic-e without a knoWedue ot the hmts deduced from scientific investigations, though i' may chance, in some instances, to be succe.'-sful, often causes a vast expenditure of time and labor, in accon.plish- ing that,, which, with the aid of science, could be accomplished in half the time and with half the labor. It is not our intention to intimate that no one hut a man of science can boa successful p anter. There are hundreds of nun wh“ are the best ot planters, and know very little of the theories of science. But because a man can sail upon the ocean, wi h noihit g but a quadrant and a compass, and because he can take his ves.-^el safely into port without a knowledge of the mathematical princi- ples of navigation, does it follow that he is not indebted to the man who has made navigation his study, and who has laid down rules and in- vented instruments by which the mariner is en- abled o calculate his distance — to take his reck- oning and to ascertain his latitude? We go into our gin-houses, and, amidst the rumbling of wheels a id the whizzing of bands, we look with pleasuie on the cotum, as, stripped of its seeds, it falls from che rollers, imt how came we in possession of the gin ? Whence its origin ? D d some idle person fashion the wheels, and the cogs, and the bands, without de.=ign, and having thrown them together, there came out a machine adapted to the separation of the cotton fr m the seed? Or is it not the result of the ap- plication of the principles ol mechanical Phi- losophy to a pract cal purpo e ? Tnere are many planters who know very little, and who care very little, about oxygen, and hy- drogen, and nitrogen, and carbon, and strata, and sub-strata, and quartz, and gray VA'acke, and all such hard names, whose success, neverthe- less, id plainly told in the number of bales of cotton they have sent to market, and the num- ber of bushels of corn they have stored away. Rut may not the success of these men be owing, in a great measure, to the pursuing, on their part, of plans or methods of cultivation that have been recommended by men who have given their attention to Agricultural chemistry? Truth, when once made known, becomes the property of aff men ; and an improved system of Agriculture may be pursued without knowing who introduced it. The system of Agriculture that is now pursued in our country is very different from that which was practised by our ancestors. But if no one had introduced im.provements in the implements of husbandry, and in the method < f cultivating the gr >und. the probability is, that w-e should now be plodding on in the same way that our fure- •^athers did. Now, what has been done can be done again. Improvements in Agriculture have been made, and improvements in Agriculture may yet be introduced. Knowledge has not won her last victory. The productive powers of an acre of land have not been fully tested the maximum product has not been fully reat lied. Discoveries may yet be made, by the aid of which, the cultivator of the earth may be enabled to make, not only two, but five blades of grass to grow where none grew before. . . . - All real improvements must be founded on ac- tual experiments. The process of a successful experiment must be made knowm before it can be extensively useful. Peiliaps no better plan can be devised for arriving it the agricultural expe- rience of men than the forming of Agricultural societies. Ministers h ive their assemb les— phy- sicians have their conventions— teat hers have their associations — and whv should not Agricul- turists have their societies? Through the agency of these insiitutions, much useful and valuable knowledge may be widely diffused. “They are the means of an intereh'inge of feelings and ordnions. The culti- vators of the soil arc brought together. Their Aguculturdl impro' ements — their superior ani- mals— their implements of husbandry — the pro- ducts of their farms— their metliods of cultiva- tion, are subjects of inquiry, comparison and ex- citement.” What effect this Society is destined to have on 124 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. the Agricultural interests of our county, time alone must determine. If it awake.n an interest in the subject of Agriculture— if it arouse a spi- rit of inquiry — if it induce men to read and to think — it it be the means of causing a more ex- tensive circulation of the Agricultural papers ot the day, particularly that excellent and useful paper that is published in our State— if it lead men to look on the profession ot the planter as an honorable profession— if its meetings afford opportunities for the exercise of the social feel- ju2s— if it give rise to a noble and generous spir- it of riva'ry, and to topics of conversition more rational than the newspaper slangs of the day — it will have accomplished much Our neighbors in Carolina are taking active measures to have analyses made of their staple products, and of the soils on which they crow. A knowledge of the component parts ot our soil and of the plants we cultivate, would enable us to be better judges as to the quantity and kind of manures that ought to be applied. And we can- not but hope that the time is not far distant, when a full treasury will enable us to incur the expense of having our soils analyzed. The dilapidated and unornamented condition of most of our plantations is a .subject which calls tor the attcn'ion of this Society. What is thecause? and how may it be remedied? Plan- ters are frequently urged to make all they need within themselves, as a matter of economy. This may be wholesome advice, bat it is not practiced on in those places where Agriculture has approached the nearest to perfectioc. A division of labor is necessary to a succesful prosecution of the different pursuits of life. Why is it that we are obliged to bring from our Northern States our wagons and our carriages, and even the coarser articles of our lurnituro. It maybe said that we have not skillful mechanic here. That has never been fairly tested. Can we expect a mechanic to put up a shop and fur- nish it with suitable conveniences and well sea- soned timber, so long as the planters attempt to make their own wagons, plow-stocks and furni- ture? I^ a man have a large number of servants he may have among them several mechanics’, and at the same time that his tradesmen are en- gaged, he may, with his other servants, carry on the planting of his lands. But how with the man who has only a few servants? If he take them to build houses and do all kinds of wheel- right business, his lands must go uncultivated. If he plant, he must buy his wagons, his carts, &c., and he must either pirchase an inferior ar- ticle— the result, not of a w’ant of ingenuity on the part of Southern mechanics, but of a refusal, on the part of many planters, to give them their patronage — or he is compelled to have them brought from abroad. For a man to meet with eminent success in any business, he must give his undivided attention to that busiaers. And may not the dilapidated appearance of many a farm be the result o f an ellort on the part of its owner to pursue all sorts of business ? . . . Your calling, gentlemen, is an honorable call- ing. The situation of the independent farmer stands among the first for happiness and virtue. “ It is one to which statesmen and warriors have retired, to find, in the contemplation of the works of nature, that serenity which more conspicuous i situations could not impart. It is the situation j in which the Maker of all placed his peculiar people in the land of Canaan; and it was to the shepherds abiding in the field that the glad tidings of Salvation was firs.t announced. Health of body, serenity of mind, and competency of estate wait upon this calling, and in giving these, it gives all that the present life carr bestow.” To Cure Corn for Boiling. — Take your corn, either on the ear or carefully shelled, beans in the pods, dip them in boiling water, and carefully dry them in ihe shade where there is free circulation of air, and our word for if, you can have as good succatash in February as in August. — Farmer's Gazelle. To Trap Rats. — Pul a little valerian anti cheese in the trap, and it will attract rats to the place. C4lass Pans for Milk. — It is said that milk set in glass pans will produce more cream, and that of a better quality, than when set in other pans. iUontlilg QTalen^i a r. Altered from the American Agriculturist's Almanac foi 1844, and arranged to suit the Southern States. ft'OltS AUGUST. [The folinwing brief hints lo the fanner, planter and gardener, will be found to apply not only to the month under which they are arranged, but, owing to diversity of seasons, climate and soils, they may frequently an- swer (or other mooihs This precaution the consider- aie agriculturist will not fail to notice and apply in all cases where his judgment and experience may dictate.] Complete the haying and harvesting, and have all the ground intended lor wheat and rye well prepared for the ensuing crop. Many ex- cellent farmers in Massachusetts sow their rye on light lauds among their corn, harrowing it in two ways between the rows, and frequently adding clover also. This last is a good prac- tice, as it matures the clover a year socner ; un- less, as frequently happens, ihe drought of Au- gust and September kills the clover. A prefer- ence should, however, be given lor that system I ol farming which enriches the soil to that degree that an approximation to the corn crop of Mr. Young may be realized, when there will be an eflectual bar to the growth ot rye, clover orany- thing else but the main crop. Some pieces of after math or rowen may nov' be cut, as it is excellent food for calves, lambs and youngcolts, their masticators not yet having become ade- quate lo grinding down the harder and more flinty grasses. It is questionable, however, whether it is policy to cut much rowen, as the advantage to the growth of the following season is a sufficient compensation for its loss, unless its place be supplied with a good coat ol ashes or compost. Look to your lightning-rods. There are more barns and stacks burnt in July and August from this cause than in the other ten months. The gases now escaping from the fresh cut grass and grain, are excellent conduc- tors for electricity, though not as good as an iron roa, and ii you do not conduct it away by the latter, the former may conduct it into your mows and granaries, and thus the labors of the year be lost. Rutabagas are an exhausting crop, and it is well to supply the growing plant with a coaling of ashes and plaster. By the first they are supplied with potash, which they take up largely, and, by the last, they are assist- ed in drawing nutriment from the atmosphere. Now is the lime to save many of your seeds, a duty to be always attended to with the utmost caution and care. Save only the best, so that your fuluie crops may be improving rather than deteriorating. Especially, save your own grass and clover seeds. Timothy, orchard-grass, red- lop and clover, may be saved at one-fourth the expense for which you can purchase them, and you may be sure of a good clean article, wh'ch you are net when you buy it elsev;here. The second growth of clover is suitable for seed, and this may be gathered by a machine some- what like a fine rake, drawn by a horse, which pulls off the head while the stalk remains stand- ing. To such as do not tear excessive seeding, and it would be well if they were more numer- ous, the .seed thus collected, may be sown with- out threshing and cleaning. Or it may be cut and ihreshecl. When rotation is desired with wheat, it is a better plan lo turn in the whole crop when ripe, by which the soil is more bene- fiited than by turning in a green crop, and the seeding is thus effectually done without addi- tional labor. Tire housewife should be careful to select the herbs during this month (and every other when in season,) as they are now mostly in blossom. They should be cut when the flower is fullv matured, and dried in the shade, and when tho- roughly cured, placed in tight paper bags, so as to preservethe peculiar aromatic principle from insensible escape. Many plants, by this neg- lect, lose their efficacy and fragrance before they are used. Medicine is frequently afforded by these at a cheaper rate and of belter quality, than can be got of the apothecary. Cut, dry, and secure hemp in stacks or ricks. Kitchen Garden. — Finish planting Savoy and other cabbages for late autumn and winter use. In the early part ol the m m'h, spinach lor fall use can be sown, and that ror early spring use in the latter part of the month. To endure the winter well, the latter should be sown on dry, gravelly ground. Turneps lor autumn or win- ter use sow in the early part ol the month. Plant now a crop ol late celery, and continue to tbrow up the earth to the growing crops. Small salading can still be sown every week. If the weather be favorable, plant peas and kid- ney beans in the early part ot the month. I bey may produce a good crop, although the chances are somewhat against it. Lettuce for fall use can be sown or transplanted Irom former seed beds. Crops of melons and cucumbers keep particularly clean, and if the weather be very dry, moderately water them in the evening. Li- ma and Carolina beans hce well, and all runners that trail upon the ground cut off"; they only take sustenance Irom the bearing vines. At- tend to the manure heaps now, and keep them clear of weeds, which would otherwise ripen and grow in the ground on which the manure is placed the ensuing year. Fruit Garden and Orchard. —This month is the most suitable time lor buddingapples, pears, plums, cherries, nectarines, apricots, almonds, &c., and no farmer who wishes the luxuries of life at a cheap rate should omit to select the choicest kinds of fruit buds, and insert them in his own young slocks. We have the authority ot Virgil and other old writers for saying, that it is best to inoculate at the joints where the bud is taken off, rather than between them, as is usu- al in modern practice. Keep the ground entire- ly clear among the seedlings and small trees. Flower Garden and Pleasure Grounds. — Transplant from the seedling beds the various kinds ol annual, biennial and perennial flowers that were not transplanted last menth. Plant your bulbs which may be out ol the gr ound, such, as crocuses, colchicums, narcissus, amaryllis, frittellaries, crown imperials, snow drops, li- lies, irises and martagons. Also lake up, sepa- rate and transplant the roots of jraconias, flag irises and other tuberous rooted flowers, whose leaves are decayed. Suckers that have been thrown up from fibrous-rooted plants can beta- ken off and transplanted. Collect and trans- plant flowering plants from the woods and fields, removing then with a ball of earth, and cut- ting off their flowering stems if there are any. Water Ireely all newly planted flowerroots, cut down the stems ol those that have bloomed, loosen the earth about potted plants, clip hedges if omitted last month. Mow the lawn once a fortnight. Keep clean and in order, the gravel walks, flower borders and shrubbery. Trim and tie up straggling plants, and inoculate all you wish to propagate in that way. Gather flower seeds as they ripen, but let them remain in the pods until the season for growing. Plantation. — Makp it a matter ol special at- tention to have everything in leadinessforpick- ing cotton. It will require only the same time to prepare, and if done in season, there will be no detention. Therefore, examine baskets, sacks, gin stand,.running gear, presses, &c., and if anything requires repairing, do it immediate- ly. Continue your improvements all spare lime, such as grubbing up bushes, &c., repair- ing fences and buildings, making shingles, and scaffolds lor drying cotton, and collect forked slakes and poles for curing tobacco. Top cot- ton early this month if it w'as not done last. Cut crab-grass and throw it into heaps, there to remain lor a day, and then into heavy w in- rows until cured. Gather fodderfrom latecorn. Clear polatoe plantings designed tor seed or slips. Thresh oats, rye and wheat for fall sow- ing, to provide against loss of time from cotton picking, when the seed will be wanted, and that the straw may be used to pack aw ay pea vines. Prepare lurnep ground at once, if it has not been done belore, and sow the seed about the middle of the month, rain or no rain. In the second volume ol the American Agriculturist, Mr. Aflleck, ot Mississippi, says: “Turneps are usually sowed in August or September, on ground enriched by penning the cows and other THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 125 stock upon icsoine tune previously, or what is still better, on a piece of newly cleared land.” Procure Dale’s hyorid or any other good variety of seed, and sow halt a pint to the acre. If the ground is not wet or there is not an appearance of immediate rain, it will be better to brush in the seed The ground should be finely pulver- ized by the plow and harrow, then the brush will rather settle the earth to the seed than other- wise. Cut such rice as may have ripened this month, and see it carefully stacked. Be careful to shut the water oft the fields ten days at least before cutting. About the middle of this month cotton will have sulftciently ripened to burst its covering, and will bear piciring. Open the branches to the sun, that a freer circulation of air may pass through them, and the cotton will open sooner, and notrot in consequence of moisture. Cut tobacco plants as soon as they come to full maturity. This may be known by the leaves becoming mottled, coarse, and of thick texture, and gummy to the touch; the end of the leaf, by being doubled, will break short, which it will not do to the same extent when green. Do not cut it in wet weather when tne leaves lose their natural gummy substance, so necessary to be preserved. When the cutting is to commence, procure a quantity of forked stakes, set upright, with a pole or rider resting on each fork, ready to support the tobacco, and keep it from the ground. The plants should be cut obliquely, even with, the surface of the ground, and should receive two or three smart raps with the back of the knife, in order to re- move the sand or soil from the leave.s ; then ty- ing two stalks together, they should be gently placed across the riders or poles, where they should remain in the sun until they become wilted. Then they should be carried into the drying house and strung upon frames, leaving a small space between each plant that the air may circulate freely and promote the drying. As the drying advances, the stalks may be brought closer to each other, so as to make room tor others, E.'ccluda all damp air possi- ble, and be equally guarded against the admis- sion of drying winds, in order that the opera- tion may not be too precipitate, except in the rainv season, when, the sooner the drying is et lected the better. When the middle stem is perfectly dry, the leaves may be stripped and put in bulk to sweat. This is done more con- veniently in cloudy weather, when the leaves are moist and more easily handled. The leaves should be assorted according to their qualities, and their stems kept all in one direction in the bulk, which should be two or three feet high, and of a proportionate circurnlerence. To guard against the leaves becoming overheated, and to equalize the fermentation or sweating, after the first twenty -tour hours, place the out- side leaves in the centre, and those of the centre to the outside of the bulk. By doing this once or twice, and taking care to exclude the air from it, and leaving it in tnis state for about forty days, the tobacco will acquire, the odor and other qualities desired. For further informa- tion, see Gen. Hernandez’s Letter in Vol. ill of the Southern Cultivator. Inoculate trees of this year’s growth; procure none but the best and choicest fruit, and the la- bor will not be lost. If your cabbages are eaten up by caterpillars in this month or next, be not discouraged. Although it will retard their growth until the insects are turned to moths or butterflies, they will afterwards take a fresh start and flourish well. To MAKE Tomato V’Vine. — To one quart of juice, put a pound of sugar, and clarify it as for sweatmeats. The above is very much im- proved by adding a small proportion of the juice of the common grape. This wine is believed to be far better and much safer for a tonic or other medical uses than the wines geneially sold as port wines, &c., for such purposes. It is peculiarly adapted to somediseasesanJ states of the system, and is particularly recommended for derangements of the liver. — Prairie Fa.rmcr. From the aouth Carolinian. i The Kiglit Spirit. •‘There isalide in the affurs of men, which, taken at the flood, leads on to fortune,” The fact of the business is, very few men now-a-days are willing to bide their time, to wait for the tide. Impressed with the old adage, perhaps, ihat “ time and tide wnit lor no man,” they are determined not to wait for them, but to “take time by the forelock,” and jump in mediae res, at the very beginning. So thoroughly changed we seem to be, with this steam spirit of the age, that we must grow rich at once — make a perfect Aladdin’s Lamp business of it. Did our fathers, with all the advantages they po.ssessed, do so before us 7 Who are the men, who during the last ten years of speculating mania and bankruptcy, have done best amongst us— have added most wealth, character and hap- piness of the country 7 The quiet substantial farmer, who, living upon his own resources, enjoying all the home luxuries ot life, the con- tentment ot a mind free trom debt; has laid up small savings every year to educate his chil- dren, and by the increase of his properly, has, as it were, unconsciously grown rich. Do you see that snug while house by the roadside, flanked by capacious barns, corn cribs, machine houses, and all the means and appliances to boot of a subs'antial citizen — to whom doth it belong7 “Mr. Siick-to-his-business,” jncld ellovv who, twenty years asro, was not worth a dollar. He never incurred a debt — he bought things at cash prices— cultivated no more land than he could cultivate well, bought properly when other people ha 1 no money to buy with — sold corn when other people had to buy — raised his own stock and eat his own “ hog and homi- ny.” He has educated his family very well — now works twenty good hands, oily laced, hap- py negroes, who love their “own folks” — and has now moved out on the high road, wnere he can amuse himself seeing people pass in his old age, and entertain his friends, when they come to see him, comforiably. This is no un- usual picture — no fancy sketch. We know a great many fanners who have cultivated poor land and grown well-to-do in the world in twenty years past. They have at- tended to their own business, and used indusiry and economy But now-a-days, people cannot attend to their own business— every young man who starts in the world with eight or ten hands must have his overseer, and what is ihe conse- quence 7 The overseer thinks only of his repu- tation for making a bigrrop of cotton, so many bales to the hand — and the negroes and mules are run to death, as m-uch ground as possible worked, the stock neg:lected--the fences unrepair- ed—the corn crib half filled— all for the want of not attending to one’s business. Why is this? Has agriculture ceased to be (in the language of Socrates,) “ an employment most wonhy ol the application of man, the most anci’ent and the most suitable to his nature, the common nurse of all persons in every age and condition of life, the source of health, strength, plenty and riches, and of a thousand sober delights and honest pleasures— the mistress and school of sobriety, temperance, justice, religion, and, in sho! t, ot all the virtues, civil and military 7” Verily, one might well come to such a conclu- sion from the adopted method of farming, and the mania now-a-days tor making professional genilemen (7) out of every fellow who can de- cline Dominus. Elieujam satis! we exclaimed! Let us mend our wavs — enough of a thing is enough, in plain English, for as theysay in Ken- tucky, “we’ve run the thing into the ground.” We do not belong to that class ol croakers who are ever prating about our decllBiiig pros- perity— and we are glad to see that we have such distinguished aathoriiy to susiain us, as the Hon. Joel R. Puinsett, who in his late Agri- cultural Address before the State Agricultural Society, remarked, “that South Carolina has advanced, and was advancing in wealth and comforts, if not quite so rapidly as some of her sister Slates which have been more zealous and energetic in availing themselves ol the ele- ments ot national prosperiiy within their reach, still herimprovernent'> have been perceptibly pro- gressive. If rapid and brilliant fortunes nave not been made as frequently as in former years, when the State enjoyed almost a monopoly of the cotton market, siill a m me wholesome, du- rable and general prosperity is diffused over the land.” Who can gainsay ii7 But where, in what class do we find the most of this pros- perity? It strikes us, not among capitalists, large planters and speculators — they have gone to the more congenial West— “ to make a spoon or spoil a horn.” No, it* is among me middle classes — those who, starting upon little in the world, but industry and economy for their mot- to, have worked their way into me upper ranks of society.’ ’ You have only to look about you to see the truth of this. How many of your neighbors who are doing well, are the sons ot wealthy parents? How many rich planters live around you, who have not sent out hands to the west — and are still deeply in debt 7 We arejust getting a wake upon the impor- tance ol manufactures. We are just beginning to thinkol the importance ol openingcharinels of communication beiween different sections ol country. We have capital among us — men of enterprize, spirit and patriotism amongst us. Neither our State nor our people are uppressed by heavy debts. We have no sin of repudiation to answer for— no broken banks to disturb our finan- cial opeiations — nocholera visitations to mourn over — no Morrnonisms nor Millerisms, nor Fourierisms nor Naiiveisms, to bedevil us. We have lived through the Devon and Dur- ham, the Berkshire, Grazier and Woburn, the Baden and Dutton, the Okta and Multibolled, ihe California and iMukicaulis humbugs, and we think we are safe. A ship that could sail through all these shoals and breakers in .safety, most assuredly might be trusted in a calm sea, under a clear sky, to make her way into port — unless the new charts, being set to music, as they now teach Geography, shou'd Siren like draw her into the unfathomed caves of ocean. It is only neeessarv to be true to ourselves to ensure success. We have great resources if weonly develope them— a soil which, if exhaust- ed, can be easily reclaimed and made to yield a rich return for the labor bestowed upon it— sections well adapted to the growth of corn, wheat, rye and the grasses where stock might be reared profitably— a genial climam varying so, from the seaboard to the mountains, as to admit of the production of a variety of staples. We have throughout the back country abun- dant water powei— the raw material and the surplus labor to supply the manufacturer, and the capital to put it in motion, too, if weonly had the confidence and the energy to do it, We have immense beds of marl in the lower and of lime in the upper districts — inexhaustible veins of the best iron ore in the United Stales, and we have gold mines too — strange if with all these blessings we cannot prosper, really. Again we say, it is only necessary to be true to ourselves, ‘Mo push ahead, keep moving,” to ensure success, Setourselves earnestly to the work of reform-— develope the resources ol the country — push railroads and turnpikes into eve- ry corner of the State, then manufactories will spring up, and the markets of Columbia and Charleston will be supplied wiih the corn, rye, oats, flour, cattle and hogs of the backwoods of South Carolina instead of being dependent upon the farmers of the North and West. Away wdth the absurd mania ot growing rich — is this all the world lives for? Would it not be belter to live well, educate our children, bring them up to habits of industry and economy and start every boy upon his own hook, than with a fortune and foolish notions to become a bank- rupt or a gambler. Why are we working so (or posterity? What has posterity done for us 7 He who no.v can say, I owe no man anything, is rich enough to begin this world or to live in it, A Cracker. 126 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. Pruning Orchards— Spring Pruning. Fiom the Western Farmer and Gardener, March 16. Fanners are, we suppose, universally busy, about this lime, in pruning their orchaids. This habit ot early spring pruning has been handed down to us Irotn English customs, and fanners do it because it always has been done. Besides, about this time, men have leisure, and would like to begin the season’s work; and pruning seems quite a natural employment with which to introduce the labors ol the year. It is not possible for American, but more em- phatically for Western cultivators, to do worse than to pattern upon the example of British and continental authorities in the matter ot orchards and vineyards. The summers of England are moist, cool and deficient in light. Our sum- mers are exactly the reverse; dry, fervid and brilliant. The stimuli of the elements with them are much below, and with us much above par. In consequence theirtrees have but a mo- derate growth ; ours are inclined to excessive growth. Their whole system ot open culture and wall training is founded upon the necessity of hus- banding all their resources. To avail them- selves of every panicle of light, they keep open the head of their trees, so that the parsimonious sunshine shall penetrate everv part of the tree. Let this be done with ns, and there are many of our trees that would be killed by the force of the sun’s rays upon the naked branches in a single season, or very much enfeebled. For the same general reasons the English reduce the quantity of bearing wood, shortening a part or wholly cutting it out, that the residue, having the whole energy ot the tree concentrated upon it, may perlect its fruit. Our difficulty being an excess of vitality, this system ot shortening and cutting out would cau.se the tree to send out suckers from the root and trunk, and would fill the head of the tree with rank water-shoots, or gourmands What would be thought of the people of the torrid z )pe should they borrow their customs of clothing Itom the practice ot Greenland 1 It would be as rational as it is for orchardists, in a land whose summers are long and of high temperature, to copy the customs of a land wno.ee .summers are prodigal of fog and rain, hut penurious ot heat and light. Except to remove liea l, dise.'sed, or interfer- ing branches, do not cut at all. But if pruning is to be di.nc, w-ait till after Corn pla nting. The best time to prune is the lime wb-n healing w'ill the quickest follow cut- ting. This is not in early spring but in early summer. The elements Iroin which new wood is pro luce 1 are not drawn from the rising sap, but Irom that which descends between the bark and wo >d ot the tree. This sap, called true sap, is the upward sap after it has gonethrough that che u ical laboratory, the leaf. Each leaf is a chemical c mtractor, doing up its part of the work ot preparing sap for use, as fast as it is sent up to It from the roots through the interior sap passages. In the leaf, the sap gives off and receives certain properties, and, when thusela- borated, it is charged with all those elements required fir the lormation and susieniation of everv part of the vegetable fabric. Descend- ing, it give.soiu its variousqualinestill it reach- es the r. ois, and whatever is ielt then passes out in o the soil Every mtn will perceive that if a tree is pruned in spring before it has a leaf out, there is no sap provided to repair the wound. A slight granulation mav take place, in certain circumstances, in some kin Is of plants, from the elements with which the tree was stored during the former season; hut, in point of fact, a cut usually remains without change untii the pro- gress of spring puls the whole vegetable econo- my into action. In young and vigorous trees, this process may not seem to occasion any injury. But trees growing feeble by age will soon manifest the result ot this injudicious practice, by black- ened stumps, by cankered sores, and hv decay. If one mast begin to do something that looks like spring work, let him go at a more efficient train ot operations. With a good spade invert the sod several feet from the body ot the tree. With a good scraper remove all dead baik. Dilute (old) soft soap with urine ; take a stiff shoe brush, and go to scouring the trunk and main branches. This will be labor to some purpose; and, before you have gone through a large ore lard faithfully, yourzeel for spring work will have become so tar tempered with knowledge, that you will be willing to let prun- ing alone till alter corn planting. Two exceptions or precautions should be mentioned : 1. In the use of the wash, new soap is more caustic than old; and the sediments of a soap barrel much more so than the mass of soap. Sometimes trees have been injured by applying a caustic alkali in too great strength. There is little danger of this when a tree is rough and covered with dead bark or dirt; but when it is smooth and has no scurf it is more liableto suf- fer. Trees should not be washed in dry and warm weather. The best time is just before spring rains or before any rain. 2. Where fruit trefs are found to have suffer- ed from the winter, as they have done severely this winter, pruning cannot be done too early, and hardly too severe. It left to grow, the heal of spring davs ferments the sap and spreads blight throughout the tree; whereas, by severe cutting, there is a chance, at least, of removing much of the injured wood. We have gone over the pear trees in our own garden, and wherever the least affection has been discover- ed, we have cut out every particle ot the last summer’s wood ; and cut back until we reached sound and healthy wood, pith and bark. From the N Y. Journal of Commerce. Introduction of the Alpaca into the Uni- ted Stales. We have observe I W'th pleasure the inten- tion of the Amei ican Agricultural Association, at the suggestion ui R L. Pell, ol Ulster c mn- ty, to introduce the Peruvian sheep, or A Ipaca, into the United States. I’hisaniTia! inhabits the slopes, table lands and mountains ol Peru, Bolivar and Chili, enduring all the vicissitudes of climate. They are found 12,000 feet above the level of the sea, where they derive a subsis- tence from the moss, (fee , growing upon the rocks, exposed to all the rigors ol the elements, and receiving neither food nor care from the hand of man. The shepherd only visits them occasi mallv; yet .such are their gregarious ha- bits, that the members ol one flock seldom s rav away and mix with another, being kept in discipline bv the older ones, who know their grtJirnde, and become attached to the place ol their nativity, to which they return at night, evincing an astonishing vigilance and sagacity in keeping the young ones together, and free from harm. Hence there is no need ot brand- ing'hem. So great is the intelligence of some leaders of a flock, that much value is on this account attached to them by their owner — part of whose duties they perform. These anim-tls, says Wil iam Walmn, are lound on the snow- capped mountain Chimborazo, 1 1 670 feet above the sea. In t'^is tropical region excessive heat is experienced in the month of August during the dav. and towaris evening the thermometer regularly lal Is many degrees below the freezing point, and the next morning rises Irom eight to twelve degrees above it, all of which changes they endtire pertecily well. In other pans ot the Andes mountains, during haR the year snow anti hail tall incessantly; whilst in the higher regions, as before noticed, every night the thermometer tails manv degrees below the fr"ezing point, and the peaks consequently are constantly covered with an accumulation of ice. The wet season succeeds, when light- ning flashes traverse the clouds in rapid succes sion, followed not by showers, but by torrents of rain, which, afiercolleciing, fall headlong frrm the rocks, leaving the slopes almost bare of soil, and spreading de.solation wherever they pass. Still the Alpacas abound and thrive. Their teeth are so strong that they can easily crush and masticate vegetable substances too hard and tough tor ordinary cattle. In the turmaiioD of their stomach they resemble the camel, and can undergo extreme nunger and thirst. Their meat is tender, wholesome and savory, and in that country is recommended by physicians to invalids in preference to fowls— for all declare that their meat is extremely wholesome, and as palatable as that of fat sheep in Castile. Mr. W. further remarks, that in his time there were shambles in the Peruvian towns where it was constantly sold. The quality of Alpaca meat could not fail to be good, when the cleanliness of the animal and nature of its food, and neat and delicate manner in which it feeds, are con- -sidered. They eat the purest vegetable sub- stances, which they cull with the greatest care, and in habitual cleanliness surpass every other quadruped. The hardy nature ana contented disposition ol the Alpaca, rause it toadaptit- •self to almost any soil or situation. The best proof of its hardiness is its power to endure cold, damp, hunger and thirst — vicissitudes to which it is constantly ex posed on its native mountains; while its gentle and docile quali- ties are evinced in its general habits ol affection towards its keeper. No animal in the universe is less affected by the changes of climate and food, nor is there any one to be found more easily domiciliated than this. Another remarkable feature in the Alpaca is, that it does not perspire; for which reason, and its peculiarly cleanly habits, the fleece does not require washing before it is taken from the back. Although olten confined to re- gions where “ Snow, piled on sriow, each mass appears Tlie gathered winters of a thousand years.” The Alpaea is free from all diseases incidental to common sheep. The chest guarded by a callosity which comes in contact with the ground while the animal reposes, and protects it from catarrhs, or other disorders disabling the limbs. In whatever point ot view we contem- plate the properties and habits of this animal, it will be found suitable stock for all our West- ern and Northern States; waste and unprofita- ble pastures would suffice them; they would browse on wild grasses and herbage that sheep and rattle reject. They will yield 12 to 15 pounds of wool, which is . soiled (or the finest class ot goods, and calculated to compete with silk Ir is almost as fashionable now as that fabric, being worn bv her Majestv Victoria. In 1831 thequaniiiy of Alpaca wool imported into England was 5,700 lbs., valued at .Sj6 per quintal —in 1H42, to July 9th, 1,200 0!)0 ihs., valued at S25 per quintal - up to 1841, .8,657 164 Ihs. were import- ed into Liverpool alone, valued at S30 per quin- tal. In France the wool is used ins ead of An- gora for cashmeres and merinoes. It has been proved to be admirably w'ell suited for mixed goods; and so fi'^mlv' is its reputation now es- tablished, that there is every certainty of a ?row- ing demand, to meet which an additional quanti- ty will annually be required, it is supposed that owing to neglect of the inhabitants of Pe- ru, there has been an enormous decline in the number of A'pacas, which will eventually ren- der them diflienlt to be obtained. We would therefore urge strenuoustv gentlemen ot wealth — manufacturers —merchants, and agricultur- ists—and in fact all who feel an interest in the welfare of the country- to come forward at once gg d off as much as seventy -five miles, resting mysell and horse for a few hours, and can travel any dis- tance with more ease to mv hor-e at five miles per-hnur with rest, than ifgoirgonly three all the day. I have worked horses and mules here tor over six years, and they are apparently as able now as ever. 1 dwell on this matter, for I think it a material consideration. I beg to re- fer to a friend of yours ; he became so thorough- ly convinced that this is the true course, he was resolve ! to try it with some sixty to eighty hands. He found at fir-t that the time of rest was a clear los.s, hands and team were so very slow; he said “ they were so broke down,” that they could not make a day’s work; but before long, he got them up to it, and the consequence vras, the Doctor’s bill was trifling, several wo- men that haa not had children for years, and others that had lost, broughr funh fine children. The same plan was inirodu'md on a neighbor- ing plantation, with equally good results. I do not find the same need tor correction as tormerlv, and seldom complain ol rny day’s work, i have no doubt, I am easier satisfied, hut 1 make decidedly betiercrops and with more ease. I have tor several years kept a horse for every hand, as I work everything in the breaking up season. I use the best plows 1 can procure, and besides, I use a variety. I presume the quality of plows will be thougtu as tiaviog no bearing upon the management, of negroes. But I ask if a negro has to push his plow in, hold it steady, guide it and the horse, if he is not a used up negro to all intents and purposes 1 For this reason, with others, 1 use good plows, and I I lighten the labor, and to m -ke it more expe- ditious 1 use cultivators, sweeps, shovels, bull tongues, etc. etc. I have known a planter who used only the old Carey plovv; never took his horses from the |)low from daylight until dark; his negroes cooked for themselves while he was asleep — and he made fair crops, was “ a sood planter" — but it he had conscience or humanity, where was it? Another matter — I have said in a former por- tion ol this, that I have not had on an average a sick day for several years, and that I had not given ten doses of medicine, saving lor worms, tor some thirty months — thinking that the use of cistern water has added no little to my former good health. I have heaid others attribute the chasse of health to this cause, and have tried to get some accurate data ; but my planting friends are careless about giving their experience, mat others may profit thereby. Ere I close, allow rne to sav, ray experience with fresh meat is unfavorable to its use, so much so, that it I could keep my negroes as straight by night as by day, 1 never would fear disease. 1 use mut- ton freely in fall (late) and winter, 1 use beef moderately in the fall and first of winter, very seldom pork in any shape. The worst years forsickness here, have been when I used b.arrel pork. If I use tresh meat when the weather is warm, I have cayenne pepper to season with. My doctoring is rather on the quack order, but as some id' my brother M.D.’sare vending nos- trums to make money by, I hope 1 will be ex- cused, as 1 am a distanced doctor, and do not offer my pres'-’riptions lor pay. If there is no- thing indicative ot inffamir.ation about the sto- mach or bowel's, and no need for the lancet, 1 give when first complaining, an emetic of ipe- cacuanha and tartar emeti and often givea second one the next day . I bleed when necessa- ry. Sometimes 1 give a good d tse ol rest, and nave given a good dose ot leather. I use qui- nine freely, nf*ver less than three or lour grains at a dose. Seldom give calomel. As I am al- ways “at home,” I see my negro when first at- tacked, andn ne times out often an emetic with quinine tofollow, cures the patient. When one that has not taken medicine lor a longtime gets si k, I advise the bed. hot foot b.ath and starva- Ion — one here has not taken a dose, e.xceot “ba- con and greens,” for ten years; he was “berry bad off,” “ leels berry sick indeed,” I bled him, sent, him to bed, he grunted two days and ca«ie out as lively as an old fellow ought to. With children, I use a weed known asJeru- .salem oak, every spring and fall; 1 don’t wait for them to get sick; there is a wo nan that conks and takes care of them ; wher sick, warm water in cold weather, and cold water in warm weather is used freely ; they take no medicine ; I have not given a dose per year scarcely. One thing 1 have no'ed as to children: — When-one woman cooks, the children look bad- ly and are complaining; put them in charge of another, and they will f iiten equal to Berkshires. I m.ian by this, as differing Irom others, that they latien remarkably well. In reading over I find one tnin overlooked : when my negroes are rest'ng from eleven to two, they are debar- red washing their own clothes even; permuted to do no labor except currying, ru'obing dowa and feeding iheir mules. You requesied me to wiite an article or so. I have (lone so. You are at liberty to use in any way that you think will be mo't servi cable to our tellows. Allow me to say, not that 1 have any pride as to being a writer, but proud that 1 was raised to wc rk. I have been with my hands a good portion of the day, and write ihi.s after my supper. I have not the time to copy or to correct; il it is worth publishing it is worth coi reeling. Believe me to be sin- cerely, your friend, M. W, Pfiilips, 128 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR Col. iWcDouald’s Proposition. The publishers send out with this number of the Cultivator a printed slip, containing Col. Mc- Donald’s proposition, to make one of a thousand who will each furnish twenty subscribers to the 5th or next volume of the Southern Cultivator, commenc- ing on the Isl of .lanuary, 1S47, to which we desire to invite the attention of every friend of the work and of Southern Agriculture. The proposition itself is a noble one. designed to promote the interest and prosperity of the whole people of the South, and is, therefore, emi- nently worthy ofsopublic spirited and enterprising an Agriculturist as Col. McDonald. Read it, Fiiends ol Southern Agriculture, and determine whether you will unite in this noble enterprise with Col. McD. All those who wish to unite in this effort to improve Southern Agriculture, by the circulation of the Culti- V'ATOR, ate requested to send their names to the pub- lishers by the first of October. Out object for desiring to know, as early as the first of October, is, if the enterprise succeed, that we may make our preparations accordingly, procuring a new press, types, &c , &c., so as to make the Cultivator equal, in every respect, to the best Agricultural paper in the Union. This, we know, is '■'talking large,'’ but if the friends of the work will only unite and carry out Col. McDonald’s proposition, our pledge shall be re- deemed to the letter. The Publishers. Back Volumes of the Southern Cultivator. The Work complete from its corrimencement. D3” Volumes I., H. and III. of the “Southern Cultivator,” tan be supplied to all who may desire the work from its commencement, at the subscription price— Orie Dollar each voLime, The back number.s of the present volume are sent to all new Subscribers. _j 0 utei^ts of this dumber. Ag‘ ■ rral Society, l.iberty Co, — Extracts tro... an Address delivered befoie pag® 123 Alpaca, introduction ofinio the U. S “ 126 Bee Miller, to destroy '• 119 Col. McDonald’s pr oposiiion “ 128 Calendar for August r. ]24 Cotton Planters at the South and Southwest, — True Remed y for the embarrassment of. .. . “ 119 EDiTORiALs-.-European Agriculture, Notice of Colinan’s. “ 120 Farming, Pennsylvania “ 121 Farming, Yankee “ 121 Hay, making “ 120 Mail “ 1-20 New England Farmer “ lil Southern Independence “ 121 Figs and Wine “ 122 Ginger Beer, to make “ 119 Growing Crops, the “ 122 Meteorological Journal for April, May and June, 1846 “ 1^ Oats, Smut in “ 122 Right Spirit, the “ 125 Permanence “ 114 Pruning Orchards — Spring Pi uning “ 126 Plantation Economy “ 127 Silk, an Essay on the Culture and Manufac- ture of “ 115 Slaves, management-of “ 113 Tomato Wine, to make “ 125 Worth Knowing 119 CHOICE FRC’IT 1‘REES. THE SUBSCRIBER has on hand a rare colleclioii of FRUIT TREES, graft-i^lfe ed by himself from the best varieties,*" which have been tested in this climate, among which are some twenty kinds of Tennessee .Apples, (which are found to do much better in this climate than North- ern trees.) Also, Pears. Plums, (specimens of which can be shown grown oy ma this season weighing 4 ounce.s,) Cherries, Apricots, Nectarines, Figs. Grapes, Quince, Gooseberries. &c. Also some beautiful dou- ble flowering fruit tree.s as the .App'e, Peach. Almond , Quince, &c. Also, Hjvey's celebrated Seedling Straw- berry. which have have proved 111 this climate to be fine bearers, of enormous size and of exquisite Pine Apple flavor, (baskets ot this delicious fruit have been in the tiol unibus mat ket the past summer wiihberries measuring from 4 to 5 inches round ) Also, Oriiainent- al Shrubs, Plants, &e. S iperb Dutch Flowering Bulbs, Hyacinths, Tulips, Amarylas. Also an extensive 'as- sortment of Garden and Field Seeds, all of which can be found at niy seed store in Columbus, Geo. Orders for trees, plants, bulbs or seeds will be carefully packed to go any distance va’ilh safety. Charles A. Peabody I O luiox qo Ti ^ 0 Oi CO •95. qo .19J -JT3 itUp XXld ss ^ 00 W CO •05,qo J9I -jB iup ms 11 20 16 12 1 8 '93, qD J9i 10.01 9.94 21 17| 17 13 ■oS.qo J3I -JB Aep PE 11 23 17 17 11 ■oS.qo joj -jtj -ftp pr. aS.qo lOj -JB Aup ISl ■g^u'Bqo TO Abq S i -S &1I ■gi! S c-g fil g £.5 °|i li£ < ■< MAVE VOV A COW! THREE COPIES FOR ONE DOLLAR! A TREATISE ON MILCH COWS,— xX Whereby the quality and quantity of Milk which any cow will give may be accurately determined by ob- serving natural marks or external’indications alone ; the length of lime she will continue to give milk, &c. &c. By M FRANCis Guenon, of Libourne, France. Translated for the Farmers’ I.ibrary, from the French, by N. P. Trist, E.sq. late U. S. Consul at Havana. With Introductory Remarks and Observations on THE (J O W7 A N D THE DAIRY, By John S. Skinner, Editor Farmers’ Library. Illustrated with numerous Engiavings =C33 t!3=- Price for single copies, neatly done up in pa- per covers, 37^ cents. Full hound in cloth, and letter- ed, 62J cents. The usual discount to booksellers, a- genls, country merchan ts and pedlers. Farmers throughout the United Slates may receive the work through the mails. The postage on each co- py will be about 7 cents. By remitting $2 free of post- age we will send seven copies of the work done up in paper covers, or three copies for ^{1 Country merchants visiting an y of the cities can eb- tain the work from booksel lers for those who may wish to obtain it. Ple.ise sen J on your orders. Address Greeley & iVIcElrath, Publishers, 8 Tribune Buildings, New-York. WEEKLY CHRONICLE & SENTINEL, FOR TWO DOLLARS A YEAR!! The Largest and Cheapest Family Newspaper in the Southern tSlates, 28 by 46 inches, containing 36 col- umns, is issued from this office every Thursday, at the low rale of TWO l)OLL.\RS per annum, in advance. 1 J. W. & W. S. JONES, Proprietors. IME ! LIME ! —The unaersigned keeps constantly on hand, and is prepare to deliver at any of the depots upon the Stale an Georgia Rail Roads, fresh unslaked lime of a su- perior quality. WM. SPENCER BROWN. Kingston, Cass Co., Jan. 15, 1846. GAKE>EN AN© FIEJL© SEEDS. A GENERAL assortment of fresh and genu- ine Garden and Field Seed, among which aie the following : Red and white clover, Blue and green grass. Rye and orchard do Timothy and herds do Millet and Lucerne do Seed corn of every valua- Buckwheal & potato oats, Seed wheat, [ble variety Kept constantly on hand by the subscriber, all o which are offered for sale at very moderate prices. All orders, by mail or otherwise, executed with neat ness and despatch. Ww Haines. Ja., 1 No. 232, Broad-street, Augusta, Ga. A SUPPLY ot the following varieties t fresh Ttrrnep Seed, just received, viz : Yellow Sweedish or rutabaga, very fine for stock. Large globe turnep, ^ “ While fiat do “ Hanover or white rula baga do “ Norfolk do For sale in quantities to suit purchases 1 Wm. Haines, Jh., Brnad-st Fine for table use. Soutt)ern QTultitJator Is published on the first of every month, at Augusta, Ga J. W. & W. S. JONES, PROPRIETORS. EDITED BY JAMES CAMAK, OF ATHENS, GA. TERMS.-ONE DOLLAR A YEAR. 1 copy, one year $1 00 I 25 copies, one year,.. $Z0 00 6 copies, ‘‘ 5 00 I 100 copies, " .. 75 00 [All subscriptions must commence with the volume.] The Cash System will be rigidly adhered to, and in no case will tlie paper be sent unless the money accompanies the order. ^ AnvERTisEMENTspertainingto Agriculture, will be In- serted for ONE dollar for every square of ten lines or less, for the first insertion, and seventy-five cents per square for each continuance. P3“All communications, must be post paid, and uliiressed to JAMBS CAMAK, Athens, Georgia. No. 9, VoL. IV. AUGUSTA,- GA., SEPTEMBER, 1846. BOTS, The Natural History of the Horse Bee, With a Variety of Experiments and Observations on BotStVery irileresling : communicatpcl to the Medi- cal and Agricultural Register, in a letter from the Rev. Rowland Green, Jr., dated Mansfield, JMass., February 20, ItOd. Dr. Adams: — Within the circle of my ac- quaintaijce there has been many horses lost by bots. This was considered as a growing evii, and prompted the writer to endeavor to trace them through their several stages. Many ex- periments were made to ascertain lacts, from which the writer has not knowingly deviated. Imperteci as the history is, it is offered for your perusal; and if you should think it would be beneficial to the public, or be the means ot lead- ing to some more effectual remedy, you may make what use of it you shall think best. NATURAL HISTORY OF THE HORSE BEE. The natural history ol horse-bees is involved in obscurity. Many concurring circumstances hinder us from exhibiting a complete history, their econotny being different from that of other insects. They are, in a certain peri.id ol their existence, placed beyond the scope of obse'rva- tion ; hence it is almost impossible to trace them from their first or imperfect state to their Iasi or perfect. They are the most contemptible of all in- sects; and tiiere is scarcely an^' part of their existence in which tli>y are harmless. Prom this circumstance, the following observations and exoerimenis were made, hoping that they would lead to the discovery of some effectual remedy. Many valuable horses are lost by these in- sects, which (while in their imperfect state,) for a season inh-tbit the stomach, prey upon it, de- stroy its texture, and inirodtice convulsions and death. The insects, in their pj^rfect state, commonly present themselves to out observation; there- fore we shall begin with them in this state, and endeavor to trace their offspring through their various gradations of “youth, vigor, and oi l age,’’ or until they arrive to the perfect state, which is completed in about 12 months. The insects appear towards the last ot June or first of July, but are most numerous in Au- gust and September. Few are to be seen after one or two cold evenings. In 1801 they appear- ea on the 22.1 of June, and towards the last of September following there was a severe frost, after which but very few were seen, althougb very numerous before. There are two kinds, one larger than the other. The difference in their appearance is, the smaller kind have generally more down, and are ot a darker color than the larger ; also, the smaller have transparent wings, but the wings of the larger kind have darkish shades. The principal difference in their economy is, that the larger kind generally cast their eggs on those parts ot the horse where he can bite, es- pecially on the anterior legs, but never under the throat; whereas the smalier never cast their eggs bn any part of the horse except under his throat. These last prove very troublesome to the horse, as any farmer can te.stify. Each kind varies in size^ but in general they are about three-fourths of an inch in length. The body of the female is much larger than that of the male, it being conical, or ending in a tube, (through which the eggs are passed,) which I when they fly is folded up. They are very ex- peditious in cementing their eggs to the hair, especially the smaller kind, which do it with incredible quickness. The eggs are fastened to the hair by a strong cement, which neither the heat ot the animal, combined with moisture, nor frost, v.dll dissolve. They are about three-fourths of a line in length and ot a light yellow color, and are always placed on the hair with the largest end down- wards. One female, of a middle size, was known to contain 891 eggs— this being the last- work assigned, which \vhenconcluded71he rnkle- and female perish. It has been supposed that the horse’s stomach was the only fit place for the eggs to hatch, and that the eggs were taken in by the horse’s biting himself, &c., but this is not well founded. These eggs, like all others, require a certain lime to hatch. The insect in miniature must have time to expand before it can burst from its confinement; and this if may do, if the atmos- phere is ot a proper warmth, in about 20 days* after the egg is cast ; but they do not generally burst the eggs so soon, either from cold weather, t (wifich retards their co ning our, and perhaps their growth,) toughness of the shell, or for the want of pressure. When the insect is formed, and ready to break from its prison, it seems to wait for some pressure, on which the shell is broken at the largest end ; and the insect, though very small, appears to be active. When this minute creature bursts the shell by its own ac- cord, it commonly remains for some time only a part out ot the shell, waiting perhaps for the horse to take him in. They are now ready to enter the horse’s stomach, which they do by the horse biting himself or o hers; or ihey may fail 0 1 tl;e grass, and be taken in while the horse is feeding. It is probable that those of the small- er kind, under the throat, may travel to and enter the mouth, and from thence be carried into the stomach. These young bots (commonly so called) are provided with two sharp books, by which, when they -arrive at the storn.ach, they_ take hold, and there prey upon the horse until they arrive to their lull growth: but fortunately very ft w come to maturity, most are destroyed in their infancy; yet it is too often the case that to'o ma- nv remain consistent with the life of the animal. When they are full grown, they are about three- fourths of an inch in length, and about one- fourth o-f an inch in thickness at the larger end, which has every appearance, to the naked eye, of being the seed of the insect, but the reverse of this is irue. At the smaller end (which is somewhat pointed.) are the two hooks by which they hold fast. Thf^v are covered with a thick tough skin, with ten folds or rings, which seem to be a chain of annular muscles, whose fibres being contracted render the rings more narrovr than before, and by these means they move from place to place, stretching forwards and taking hold with the hooks, and then contract- ing themselves, which contraction draws them onwards; then unfasten and stretch again, and so on. In those rings, except the three poste- '-•Sepiember 12. I'02, plaoeu a number of eggs (just cast.) in a moderate temperature of heat ; on ihe dOih four hatched, and on October 2d, two more came out by pressure ; oiheis hatched not so soon. tJanuary, 1802, after severe frosty weather, eggs were taken from a horse and placed in a warm room ; some hatched in five days, others in twelve. Eggs cast ill September may- not hatch untif vlie spring fol- fo-wing. rior, are set numerous small sharp points or thorns, projecting backwards, which prevent them from slipping back when moving. They penetrate deep into the stomach, form- ing holes in it, and there hang by their hooks, which are exceedingly sharp. If they at any time lose their hold they immediately catch again. jMotany part of the stomach is exempt- ed from them ; but they are most numerous near the passages into and out of the stomach, where they many tim'es place themselves in ■llir^at order. They are of all insects the most tenacious of life, at this period; and at this time it is that they prove so destructive to hors- es. Those horses that die of bots, most com- monly die in the months of February, March or April; however, this depends on the number and growth of the bots, and the injury done to the stomach. How long it is necessary for them to dwell in the stomach is unknown ; but in the months of May, June and July, especial- ly the two latter, they- pass the intestines and immediately seek refuge in the earth, at an un- certain depth, according to the hardness of the soil. Al this time they are of a light color. The second day after they go into the earth they become contracted in length, less active, and of a light mahogany color. In one or two days more, stiff, hard, and the color darker: — they are now rather more than half an inch in length, and nearly one-fourth of an inch in diameter, oblong, motionless, and the points and hooks almost obliterated. They do not cast off" the skin, (which becomes a shell,) as many oiher insects do, when they pass into the chrysalis or aurelian slate. The wings when formed are folded up, but expand when they arise to new life. In thirty days after they enter the earth, the bee or perfect insect breaks the shell near its smallest end, and comes out a renovated creature; “ everything is changed, all its pow- ers are new, and life to it is another thing.” With certain individuals there is some varia- tion as to the length of the aurelian period; from certain causes it may beprotracted beyond the usual period. They in many respects re- semble the honey bee, especially when flying; they are of a lighter color, and have not the tongue necessary to draw honey from flowers. It is probable they eat not in the perfect state, being doomed only to the continuation of their species. Their legs are six in number. They are notactive in the night. A further descrip- tion perhaps is not necessary. General Symptoms of Botsin Horses.— Some- times horses which are hard worked discover no apparent symptoms until death. In young .horses the symptoms are generally belter ascer tained. In general the horse loses flesh, coughs, eats but sparingly, bites his sides, and some- times with violence; These symptoms con- tinue and increase for a longer or shorter li.mc, according to the violence of the case, and then a discharge from the nose commonly takes place; and at length stiffness ot the legs and neck, staggering, laborious breathing, convul- sions and death. Appearance on Dissection. - Bots in abundance collected near the passages intu and out of the stomach, and of various sizes, acc^rdins to the time ot their residences there. The texture of the stomach penetrated and greatl> injured. The internal coat ot the stomach appeals thick- ened and preternaturally hard on those pans where the greatest injury is done. In tour out 130 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. of five dissections the lungs were found greatly inflamed; some parts in a state of suppuration, others in a putrescent state. The one whose lungs were not marked with inflammation, was a young horse of two years old, whose lungs had never been injured by hardships. Query.— Why this inflammation, &c., on the lungs 1 The irritation arising by the action of bots in the stomach, may produce a general inflam- matory disposition in the system: but as the lungs of horses, by hard usage, are more pre- disposed to inflammation and its consequences than any other given part of the body; the in- flammation fixes there, and in nrany (it not most) instances seems to be the immediate cause of death. Experiments to remove Bots from the Stomach. — Aloes, rum, mercury, jalap, brine, linseed oil, pepper, tincture of tobacco, decoction ol pink root, &c., are all ineffectual. This will not appear strange when wa consider how te- nacious they are of life. Nothing is more in- jurious than rum, and other heating things, to the irritable state of the stomach, whose texture is nearly perforated in numerous places. Almost every farmer in Massachusetts has. some specific, and frequently one ol the above named, or those of less consequence. A farm- er’s horse sickens with cold, or pain in the sto- mach, from hard travelling perhaps: he asks his neighbor, what is the matter 7 He answers, the bots. What shall 1 do 7 Give him rum. The rum is given, and the horse recovers im- mediately. Well, what is next? Why, rum has cured the bots. In like manner other things obtain credit for killing bots. Experiments to make Bots let go their hold with- out the Body. — The stomach laid open, the fol- lowing things were applied to no effect, but in some instances they appeared to hang the stronger — rum, brine, lime, fish oil, British oil, burntalum, corrosive sublimate, spirits of tur- pentine, tincture of aloes, decoction ol tobacco, pepper, volatile spirit, elixir camphor, w'eak elixir vitriol, &c. &c. Actual fire would cause, them to let go, although not in all cases, some- times certain individuals would cling the faster, and die like a good soldier at his post, before they would relinquish their hold. They will live hours after they are considerably scorched by a candle. Strong vitriolic acid would imme- diately cause them to let go their hold. This acid, joined with oil or water, (equal parts,) would answer the purpose, though not so effec- tually as the acid by itself. This acid was found to be more effectual than aqua fortis. Experiments to destroy Bots mthout the Body. —The following experiments were made at dif- ferent times, and on bots that were three quar- ters grown, or more h. m, J other.s not so Ion f Ram, I Decoction of Tobacco, Strong elixir vitriol, j Volatile spirits, .2 Spirits of turpentine, Essentia! oil of mint, £ ! Decoction of pink root, I 1 "• Fish oil, / } Linseed oil, Solution of nitre. Elixir proprietalis. Beef brine. Solution of indigo, ^Elixir camphor, j h. m. f25 I 2 18 I 56 45 I 1 5 10 49 10 2 ro 10 10 1 10 7 no effect. J The experiments which had no effect were discontinued at the expiration ef the time spe- cified. Bots cannot endure the cold so intense as to freeze. Preventive Means. — Scrape off" the eggs when laid on the horse, every eight or ten days. A much longer interval will answer the purpose, even once in twenty days ; but there is a greater certainty of destroying the whole in short inter- vals, as some maybe overlooked at one time and not at another. This practice must be con- tinued through ihe-season of them, and may be performed with ease with a sharp knife. The eggs should not be scraped off where the horse can feed, as in that case the young bots might be taken in. It is difficult to remove those eggs laid under the throat with a knife, but they may be destroyed with a hot iron, made for that pur- pose. Palliative Means.— Fiom what has been said, it appears exceedingly difficult to remove bots from the stomach-; they are covered as with a coat of mail, and seem to be proof against anything that can be thrown into the stomach with safety. As no certain method has been found effectu- al in removing them from the stomach, the whole indication seems to be to remove irrita- tion and inflammation, and this to be done by blood-letting and a free use of mild oils. Blood- letting has a tendency to remove the inflamma- tory disposition, and oils lubricate the fibres of the stomach, and tend to obviate the effects ol the stimulus which produces inflammation and death. However, all this ought to be done in the early stages, and even then the event is very uncertain. In most instances it appears that the imme- diate cause of death was the local affection in the lungs; and in most instances where the lo- cal affection of the lungs did not exist, it ap- pears that the irritation occasioned by the bots introduced convulsions ending in deaih. When the lungs are much affected death is always certain ; but in those instances where the lungs are not affected, there is considerable probability, that by blood-leHiag and afreeuse of oils, the effects of the insects may be warded off for some time, perhaps Umg enough for them to come to maturity, at which time they cease to act.- ;Frcm Thaer’s Principles of Agriculture. K Y E . Secale cereale (common rye.) Of this grain we have but one species, and all its numerous varieties are distinguished by no botanical eha- .racteristic, but merely by some difference in their nature, occasioned by peculiarities in the mode of cultivation. Autumnal and spring rye acquire the proper- ties that give rise to these appellations, in the same way as autumnal and spring wheat do ; we have already described this. The tollowing are the properties of autumnal rye: It remains longer in the ground, grows more bushy, and does not put forth its stems or seed stalks until late in the season. We have one variety which came originally from the Russian provinces on the shores of the Baltic, and which has all the properties of autumnal rye. Those varieties known by the names of Archangel Rye, Nor- wegian rye, St. John's Rye, &c., are one and the same, and no dissimilarity between them can be discovered. I cannot yet make up my mind whether or not the kind termed Wallachian rye is of a dif- ferent nature. It is more than probable that there has been some mistake respecting it ; lor fifty years ago Silberiac barley (hordeum ere- leste,) was regarded as a species of rye, and called Wallachian rye; and not six years ago some of it was sent to me under that name. The real Wallachian rye has nodistinguishing characteristic. Every kind of grain which is for some years subjected to a mode of culti- vation -similar to that pursued in gardens,, and the seed of which has been carefully select- ’ ed, undergoes some changes in its nature; but it is not difficult to foresee that when it comes to be again cultivated in the open field, the ex- istence of these alterations will be of short du- ration. That kind of rye which comes to us from the Russian provinces on the borders of the Baltic, and the German name of which may be trans- lated “ bushy rye,” is far superior to others. It re.sists inclement weather better, grows fuller and higher, is not so easily laid, and when sown on a good soil with proper care, always yields a large amount of produce. It must, however, be got into the ground before the end of September. If sown later, or on poor ground, these advantages will not be so mani- fest. It puts forth its blade and stems, flowers, and ripens much later than common rye ; and in order to have it ready for reaping about the same lime as the other, it must be sown very early. This Variety undergoes no alteration. 1 have been unable to perceive the slightest de- generation even when it hasgrown near enough to other kinds of rye to receive the pollen blown from their stamens. Land containing a large proportion of sand is btst adapted for rye, which is the only grain that can be cultivated on a soil containing 85 parts in 100 of sand, or more. With us, land of this nature is always called rye-land. Soils containing less than eighty five parts in a hun- dred of sand are also adapted to the produc- tion of rye. The richer the land the more vigorous ard luxuriant will the rye be. This grain, howev- er, answers on poor land, which wheat does not. But this deperds much upon the nature of the land. Sandy soils par. with their humus so much more easily than clays do. If an exhausted field or portion of land be left in repose for some years, it will colled sufficient nutrition to enable it to bear a crop of rye, though it must be admitted that it will only be a poor one. Neither is rye so liable to be injured by any acidity in the soil as wheat or barley would be, and, consequently, it may be cultivated on marshy, or heath and furze land, which has been drained. Rye may therefore be regarded as the most precious gift of God to the inhabitants of sandy and poor countries ; without it, many districts would have been uninhabitable. The degree of preparation bestowed on the soil, and the nature of the, crop which precedes the rye, are not of so much consequence as these points would be if wheat were tube sown. A saixiy soil, such an one as is best fitted for the production of rye, requires but three plow- ings, while more tenacious soils amply repay the expense of a fourth, by the increased amount of produce w'hich they then yield. Those preparatory crops which are advanta- geous to wheat, aie equally so to rye when it is sown on the soils on which they can be cul- tivated. A diminution in the produce of the rye crop is almost invariably observed when it is made to succeed potatoes or linseed. Rye bears being sown on the stubble of some other gtain, or even on its own, much better than wheat dues. It is also well known thalin some countries rye is sown three or four times in succession on the same land; but the crops thus raised are so miserably poor that all un- prejudiced persons have discarded such a rota- tion. Not even rich and repeated ameliorations can prevent the produce in grain from falling off sadly, although the straw may vegetate lux- uriantly. All those isolated cases which are brought forward for the purpose of proving that the second crop has been hner than the first, and of defending this mode of proceeding, can- not overcome general experience, and might, if investigated, be very easily explained away. New manure buried a short time only before the sowing took place, and the decomposition of which had been prevented by drouth or humidi- ty, would always be injurious to the first crop, while it would favor the vegetation ol the suc- ceeding ones. This mode of proceeding may, however, be excused, where the ground is only fit for the production of rye, and where straw is worth as much or more than grain. It is true that it is not absolutely necessary to pay so much attention to the choice of the seed for a r}te as for a wheat crop; nevertheless, perfect and r-ipe seeds, free from disease, will always fully repay the attention bestowed on their selection. Rye can only bear a very light covering: if sown too deeply in the ground, and especially where the soil is tenacious, it will often be unable to germinate, and will perish. This is the reason why it is so dangerous to bury rye with a plow; 1 have experierced this to my cost. If the soil is very dry, and remarna so after the sowing has taken place, rye sown in rows may have some advantages over that THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR, 13i which has been sown broadcast, because it shoots up more evenly and equally. But as the kind of temperature which will succeed to the sowings cannot be foreseen, it is always most prudent to have recourse to the harrow, unless the seed is to De buried by passing the extirpator superficially over the ground, which mode of proceeding is certainly preferable to any other. In our clirnate, the best time for getting the seed into the ground is somewhere between the middle of September and the middle of October. In some countries, however, the rye is sowm in the open field during the whole of the winter, and even up to the end of February, and at times with great success. This is done to ena- ble it to benefit by the ameliorations bestowed on the land in the winter. Many impartial observers assert that the la- test sowings are those which can be most de- pended upon; but, on the Other hand, the crops are never so large as those obtained from ear- lier sowings where they do succeed. The w'orst period lor gelling the seed into the ground is from the middle of October to the middle of No- vember. But the bushy rye, of which I have already made mention, must always be sown early in the year; it can scarcely be got into the ground too soon. I have even sown it in the middle of June without its coming up that year. When not sown till October, it grows very feebly; and i‘s lateral shoots being behindhand when the ears begin to form, remain poor and weak. From eighteen to twenty metzen of rye are generally sown per acre. When bushy rye is sown in August, or about the beginning of September, from twelve to fourteen meizen of seed will be quite sufficient, if it is sown evenly and regularly. It grows so full and luxurianilv that three-fourths of the plants are choked, and but one-fourth remain. In the spring the fields often look so clear that those farmers who are not accustomed to this grain blame themselves for having been too stingy with their seed. But it would have been just the same if they had sown it more thickly, for in the autumn the plants increase and grow so full that they push against each other ; each one puts forth ten or twelve blades or more, and, provided the soil is rich and the weather favorable, the whole field appears closely covered with a luxuriant crop. As this kind of rye comes up, and puts forth its leaves and shoots much later than any other, it often, in May, appears to be very much behind other crops in point of vegetation, but before June is over it has far surpassed them. Rye crops are equally as much benefitted as wheat by being harrowed in the spring, espe- cially where a hard crust has formed over the surface of the soil : but this tillage or cultiva- tion is never bestowed on it. Harrowing is ex- ceedingly beneficial to rye, even where the soil is of a very sandy nature; but in these cases the cvperation must be performed with light wooden barrows, and not until the plants have put forth their strong roots. Where these latter have been torn up by frost, especially from a spongy soil, or uncovered by the wind, it will be better to use a roll. The flowering season is a more critical pe- riod for rye than for any of the other cereals ; nor can the farmer reckon with any certainty on the succe.ss of his crop until this has passed. A- white frost coming on about the flowering time may wholly or partially prevent the for- mation of the grain. This evil frequently only attacks the hedges of the field, or those parts most exposed to the wind, and frequently only injures one side of the ears, viz: that one next to the quarter whence the wind comes. Where this has been the case, the ear loses color, the points of the husks pucker up, and the husks are found to he empty. Rainy, dam9,or very windy weather, occur- ring about the flowering season, has a perni- cious influence on rye. OccasionaVshowers do it no liarm, even when they are tolerably fre- quent, provided that there are a few hours of warm, sunny weather between each; fordur- ing rain the rye closes up iis valves, and when the sun afterwards comes out, the anthers spring up so vigorously that the pollen from the sta- mens covers the field like a thick cloud. But during continuous rains the anthers undergo an alteration in the valves, and rot; or, at any rate, impregnation does not take place; or if it does, the embryo of the grain is putrified and lost. It is thus that the disease termed the spur or ergot of rye is engendered, and that curious, blackish, violet-colored excrescence formed, which is so well known, and of itself appears to be of no consequence, but swallowed in large quantities, and especially while fresh, occa- sions such dangerous and mortal diseases in both men and animals. Strong, vigorous rye is, however, better able to resist the influences of foreign causes even during the flowering season, than weak and sickly plants. When the flowering tin»e is over, it will be easy to discover whether fecundation has been accomplished or not, or, in other words, whether or not the husks contain their grain: it is only necessary to hold the ears up to the light in order to ascertain this, because the impregna- ted valves appear transparent. But as with rye the flowering process proceeds but very slowly, it is as well not to be in too great a hur- ry to calculate the probable success of the crop, lest we form an erroneous judgment. When the plant is further developed, the empty husks will be felt on passing the hand over each ear. Rye is ripe when the straw becomes pale; when its yellow hue fades almost to white, and the knots have lost every trace of green; the grain is hard, easy to be detached, and falls out on the plant’s being struck orshaken. But Ca- to’s maxim must always be ob.'-erved with re- gard to rye: Oracidioni esLo biduo dims, quarn, bidao scrius metere, (gel in your harvest two • davs too soon rather than two days too late.) On land of tolerable quality, and which from its nature is as vrell adapted for rye as for wheat, the average produce of these two kinds of grain will be nearly or quite the same in vo- lume. I have, however, gever known an in- stance in which a rye crop averaged .nore than twenty-two bushels per acre, while much larg- er crops of wheat are frequently obtained, al- though it must be confessed that it was Irom land much too stiff for rye. Twelve bushels maybe regarded as a very fair amount of pro- duce; but now and then the crop barely yields three bushels per acre. Where it is less than this, it may be said altogether to fail; a soil on which this is usually the case, hardly repays theexpense of sowing it, and has no nominal value as arable land. The weight of a bushel of good rye is from 76 to 86 pounds. Next to wheat, rye may be said to contain the largest amount of nutritive matter of any of the cultivated cereals. It contains an aromatic substance, which seems to adhere taore parti- cularly to the husk, since that agreeable taste and smell peculiar to rye bread are not percep- tible in that which is made of rye flour that has ; been passed through a verv fine boiling cloth. The smell, as well as the blackish hue, m-ay be lestoredby means of a decoction of rye bran in warm v.mter used in making the dough. This substance appears to facilitate digestion, and has a peculiarly strengthening, .refreshing and beneficial efi'ect upon the animal ffame. In places where rye is the chief article of food, the price of this grain is not so invariable as it is in others, or, at any rate, it remains more in accordance with the abundance or scantiness of the crops. Foreign demand has in this countrv but a very indirect influence on its price. With us, rve regulates the price of all other nroducts; and even, by the wages of manual labor, the price of all kinds of man- ufactured commodities. The circumstances of the locality may be such as to render it more ad- vantageous to grow other products', but the de- mand for rye 1“= always regular and certain. =1^ *This rem-irk is chieflsr applicable to the north of Germany, or to countries where the inhabitants live chiefly on rye, which is not senerallv the case either in France or Switzerland. — Ftinch Trans. All soils containing an excessive proportion of sand, and which are not too much exposed is humidity, will be found to bear better crops of rye than of any other kind of grain, provided that the sowings are carefullj'- executed. This grain exhausts land much les? than wheat. In a previous section we have admit- ted, as a general principle, that rye absorbs thirty parts in a hundred of the nutriment con- tained in the soil. As this grain yields a largei quantity of straw than any other, it will, il this straw is reduced to manure, restore a larger portion of the nutriment which it has absorbed than any other ; besides, its straw is peculjarly adapted for all the purposes of an agricultural undertaking. Spring rye is simply a variety of autumnsl rye, and may, as I have before observed, easily be changed into autumnal rye. It is generally made use of to replace the latter, when it has been impossible to sow the seed in time; and the ground is not fit for any other kind of grain, and especially for the purpose of deriving bene- fit frotrrihe m.anufe bestowed on the soil during winter. It thrives well on land which is too sandy and too dry for barley or oats. After po- tatoes or autumnal rye which ha.s failed, spring rye succeeds admirably, provided that it has been sown as early as possible, and in a soil properly prepared tor its reception. Spring rye otherwise seldom yields an amount of produce at all equal to that of autumnal rye, and^'^ometimes altogether fails. Its grain is small, and has a very thin husk; but contains such excelient flour as to cause it frequently to fetch a higher 'price than autumnal rye, • It ought to be sown early, viz: either at the end of March, or about the beginning of April ; autumnal rye should be sown at the commence^ inent of March. Spring rye is not unfrequent- ly sown on the stubble of aummnal rye, after an amelioration of fresh manure. The soil is only prepared for this kind of sowing during the cold and wet v inter months; consequently, dog’s tail grass, bent grass, and other varieties of asrostis, multiply rapidly. In general, no fields are found to be so infested with weeds as those in which rye ischiefiy cultivated. Such land has hence, often, and verv unjustly been accused t f being disposed by Nature to pradue* bent grass. From the New England Farmer. A CMAPTEfS, OIV S..IME. Mr. Brrck: — I forward you the following chapter, thinking it may serve to give some of your readers more definite ideas of the sevecai compounds of lime. Lime as taken from the quarry, is called car- bonate of lime; limestone, marble. If pure, it consists of about 44 per cent, of carbonic acid, and 56 pec cent, of lime. When the limestone is subjected to the intense heat of a lime kiln, the acid is driven off, and the hundred pounds ot limestone put in the kiln come out but 56 pounds of burnt, caustic, or quick-lime. (Th» fact of this difference between the burnt and unburnt lime, is something of an object, where it has to be carted some distance.) If the burnt or quick lime is left exposed to the air, it gradu- ally imbibes from it carbonic acid and mois- ture, and the lumps crumble,^ or slake into a powder; it is then termed air-slaked, or effete lime, and will, in time, by the absorption ol carbonic acid, become, chemically, or nearly so, what it was before being burned — that is, carbonate of lime. If water is thrown upon the newly burnt lime, it readily slakes into a fine powder, and it is then termed water-slaked, or hydrate ot lime. In this process ol slaking it absorbs about 24 per cent, of water, which is chemically com- bined with the lime, and is in a much more so- lid stale than ice, and can only be driven off by a strong heat; or by long exposure to the air, it is displaced by carbonic acid. Sulphate of lime, gypsum or plaster of Pari», is an abundant product of nature. When pure it is, in 100 pounds, composed of 46 per cent, or 132 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. sulphuric acid, 33 per cent, of lime, and 21 per cent, of water. When gyp.'jum is exposed to a red heat, the water is driven oli, and then, strict- ly speaking, it is “ plaster of Paris.” Phosphate ot lime is a combination of phos- phoric acid and lime, in the proportion ol 54^ot lime, and 454 of acid. It is not a very abundant product ot nature, although it is found in small quantities in several different locations and countries. It has been said that it existed in large quantity in the province ot Estremadura, in Spain. From the similarity of its composition to bones, it has been thought that it might be im- ported into England, and in a finely powdered state, answer as a substitute lor bones. Within some two or three years, Dr. Daube- ney, of England, has visited liie above named place, and ascertained there is but a small vein ot the phosphate, some six or eight feet in thick- ness, and but a part of pure phosphate ot lime. In England, there are some limestones, or ra- ther strata in the limestone, that contain capre- litis, fragments of bones, teeth, &c., that con- tain a considerable amount of phosphate ot lime, and it may in some measure answer as a substitute for bones, though 1 believe it has not been used to any great extent. In regard to the value or use of lime for agri- cultural purposes, there seems to be a difference of opinion among writers upon the subject. Professor Johnston devotes some forty or fifty pages ol his published lecture.s, delivered at Durham, in 1841, to the subject ol lime in ail its bearings; and from that time to the present, he is a strong advocate for its use, and is continu- ally recommending the use of it to the farmers in Scotland and England. The English farm- ers have used it for improving their lands from time immembrial, and unquestionably with profitable results. Mr. Ruffin, of Virginia, who is well known as an able agricultural write-, on both sides of the Potomac, from the St. Lawrence to the Rio Grande, has spent years of unwearied study and practice, upon the use of lime and marl lor manures, and his valuable Essay on Calcare- ous Manures, with Prof. Johnston’s works, can be most profitably studied by farmers. Lime ahd marl are used in vast quantities lor improving the soil, and increasing the crops in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and many of the Southern States. Mr. Rives, of Virginia, sta- ted in 1842, that he had used about 12,000 bu- shels of lime on about 150 acres of land. He says that he has not perceived that it much ben- efitled the crop of corn or wheat that immedi- ately succeeded the limine-; but this, he says, “was more than compensated by the marked, unequivocal and decided effect that I have ne- ver failed to perceive from lime alone, in the clover succeeding the wheat. “All my con- clusions,” says he, “in regard to lime, would lead me to the opinion that it is the most perma- nent of all manures.*’ Lime has been used in New' England, some- times with good results, at other times without any apparent effect. So With plaster of Paris, guano and other substances. It has generally been supposed that lime would be a good appli- cation for the wheat crop, but it sometimes fails. In the N. E. Farmer of Oct. lOth, 1838, you, Mr. Editor, gave us some account of the farm of the Hon. B. V. French, of Braintree, in which you state that “in his efforts to raise wheat the present season, he has had a com- plete failure, although a liberal application of lime and other manure was made, and the best variety of seed procured; yet he has the morti- fication, after his field exhibited the most flat- tering appearance, to see the whole of it blight and fail.” Atone of the agricultural meetings at your State House, in February last, Mr. French gave some account of his attempts to raise wheat, (as reported in the Boston Cultivator.) One year he failed in raising a crop of Black Sea Wheat— destroyed by the rust. Upon a gravelly soil, he reaped a crop of 23 bushels to |b« acre. “He then consulted a chemist, who thought lime was wanting in his soil, and he recommended 160 casks to the acre. (That chemist was a dealer in homeopathic doses.) He did not apply so much, but limed liberally, and sowed two bushels to the acre ; it grew well and was promising till the berry was about fill- ing, when it blasted, and there was not a peck to the acre.” - Perhaps il Mr. French had plowed Ids land the previous autumn, and applied his lime then, the result would have been different — it would have had lime during the winter to have become carbonate of lime — and some of its alkali would have been dissolved, and rendered the silex in the soil soluble, so as to have given a stronger coating to the straw, and probably have prevented the rust. And applying newly slaked lime to highly manured land, has the ef- fect of liberating the ammonia, and it flies off into the air and is lost to the farmer. It Mr. F.. alter taking one or two crops of hay from this limed land, had then plowed it and sowed wheat, I think he would have obtained a good crop. One of your correspondents, (over the signa- ture of “Authentic,”) who has recently, through your columns, had a little sparring with “ M. A.,” of Pembroke, on the cultivation of wheat, recommends the application ot ten casks ot air-slaked time (in August or September,) per acre, for winter wheat. Where that amount ol lime had been used, forty bushels of wheat per acre were harvested last year in Massachusetts. There is no question but lime has frequently been misapplied and injudiciously used. Used in too large quantities, its effect would be to destroy for a while all vegetation. Guick, or newly slaked lime Upon highly or recently manured land, would drive off Ihe ammonia. 1 have within the past year been asked by more than a dozen farmers, how much lime they should mix to a cartload of clear manure. They have, somehow, got the idea that lime will add to the value of their clear manure — while the truth is, its application would very much lesson its value. Lime is valuable mix- ed with peat or swamp muck. If the peat or muck contain sulphate of iron, or alumina, it will decompose it, and the lime will become gypsum, or plaster of Paris, and the acidity of the muck neutralized and converted into good manure. Where lime is as dear as it is here — from $1 50 to $l 75 per cask — 1 do not think il would be good economy for farmers to purchase it to spread broadcast upon their lands; but for com- posling with manure and muck, to be used on soils containing salts of iron, either the sul- phate or oxide of iron, from my own experi- ence I am satisfied of its economy, even at the prices named. Where 1 applied a limed corn- po t six years ago, the land has produced nearly double the amount of several kinds ol crops that the same kind of land has that had an equal amount of clear manure. Of its dura- bility, 1 am ol the opinion of Mr, Rives. Since writing the foregointr some weeks ago, I have received a file of the London Gardeners’ Chronicle, for March and April. In the No. of April 4th, there is a report ot an experiment of “Spanish Phosphorite,” or the phosphate of lime mentioned in this article. The experi- ments with the phosphate of lime, in compari- son with several other manure.s, was made by or under the direction of Prof. Daubeney. The experiments with twelve kinds of ma- nures w'ere made upon an exhausted piece ol land. There were thirteen plots of ground. Lhs. of roots No. 1, Without manure, produced 14,298 “ 2. Shavings of bones, It) cwt. to an acre,, . 19,239 “ 4. Nitrate of soda, l^cwt. ‘‘ ...28,459 “ 5. Spanish phosphorite alone, 12 cwt 29,639 6. Spanish phosphorite, with sulphuric acid, 12 cwt. per acre. 30,869 “ 7. South American guano, 260 lbs, per acre, 3), 1 14 “8. Bones with sulphuric acid, 1 i cwt. . i, . ..31,899 “It. Bones finely powdered, 12 cwl ..30,185 “ 13. Stable dung, 22 tons to the acre 39,476 Prof. Daubeney says : “ As the Spanish phos- phorite, which appears to act so beneficially, is wholly destitute of organic matter, it seems to follow that the more valuable portion at least of what is applied to the land, when bones are scattered over it, is the pkesphate of lime, and not, as s^me have supposed, the oil or gelatine.” I do not think il worih the while to copy all bistable of manures, as my object was to show the effect of the natural phosphate of lime. The same paper also contains an article on the application ot lime to the land in autumn, copied Irom the Farmer’s Gazette, in which the writer argues that lime applied in the autumn at the rale, of 240 bushels ol slaked to the acre, will all be dissolved out of the soil by April. The writer says; “Now, suppose this ample dose is, at a heavy expense, laid on by the 5th of October, and the field has a incdeiate slope ; it is all, or nearly all, dissolved and washed out ot the soil by the rain, before the 15th of the next April ! No lime remains but any little that was spread in lumps. It is all gone to the nearest stream, before 1 get a single crop off it. Is this good economy If that is the fact, f do not think it is good economy ; but his statement is ir direct opposi- tion to Mr. Rives’s opinion, contrary to my ex- perience, and probably to that of thousands of others wbho have used lime. I do not know but the rain water ot Scotland (where the writer resides,) hos greater solvent powers than our Yankee rain water; here it takes about 800 lbs. of water to dissolve one of lime. A vveetc or two since, I received Irom the au- thor, Hon. J. H. Hammond, of Silver Bluff, South Carolina, a printed copy of a letter he addressed to the Agricultural Society of Jeffer- son County, Ga., written by the request ol said Society, on the use and application of “ shell marl.” Gov, Hammond has used marl (about 60 per cent, of it is carbonate of lime,) lor a nuiiiber of years on his plantation, with good results. He says : “I cannot give you a better evidence of the firmness of my faith in the virtue ol marl, than to state, that notwithstanding the discourage- ments of the last three extraordinary seasons, I have, at great expense, brought up l.■'om Shell Bluff, within four years, over 300,000 bushels, carted it out, and spread it over about 2,300 acres of land, and am at this moment as active- ly engaged at il as ever. Nordo 1 looklorward to a period when 1 expect to cease using it to a considerable extent every year, either on Iresh lands or incieasing the dose on those already marled.” The length of this communication prevents my making more extracts from this valuable pamphlet, except one relating to gypsum. Mr, H. says: “Sulphuric acid itself is often used as a ma- nure, but experience has fully established the fact, that it is of little value except on calca- reous soils; and what is more remaikable, that sulphate of lime will also act with far greater effect on limed land. I tried some ol it myself the past year on marled land. I rolled the cot- ton seed in it, previously to planting them, and thus applied il at the rate of only one peck of the plaster per acre. I am satisfied that the product on the few acres to which it was applied was cne-ihird greater than on similar adjoining land, marled also, but not plastered.” He adds, in a written note to me— “The.se acres, the plastered and uuplastered, received equally about 30 bushels ol lime per acre, last spring. Is it possible that the 3 quarts of addi- tional lime in the peck of gypsum could have made a difference of 33 per cent, or any differ- ence, in the produce. I was struck with the absurdity ol BoussingauU’s theory, and men- tioned il, last summer, to Mr. Allen, of the American Agriculturist, New York, who re- plied that it must be a 1 thought of writing something about it, and was glad to see your article.” The article here referred to by Mr. Hammond I suppose was a communication of mine pub- lished in the N. E. Farmer, of October 22, 1845, in which I attempted to show that M. Boussin- gault was wrong in his assertion that the appli- THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 133 caiion of gypsuia was but an indirect way ol liming and further inquiries, since then, have only mure strongly confirmed me in the opinions I then advanced. M. Boussingault deservedly stands high as a scientific and prac- tical farmer, and in charity 1 should hope that Mr. Allen was right in his conjectifre that the assertion above mentioned is a.mispniit, or that it was a mistranslation. L. Bartlett. Warner, N. H., May 28lk, I8l6. FUTUSSSD AGRICUL.'ff'URAL. 1 .?£. IP it O V JO il IM T. Extract from Report of the Commissioner of Patents, Tnere are some things which seem to autho- rize our augury of still greater advances in agricultural improvement. And in touching on these, we shall, at the same time, suggest the points of deficiency. The first ground of encouragement on which we rely, then, is, increasing agricnllural know- ledge. To any one who will take the pains to examine the list of agricultural periodicals, and compare it with that which would comprehend all the weekly or monthly journals of this de- scription a few years since, the contrast will ap- pear striking. Nor is it only in the number of these, and the wider extent of publication and circuia ion wnich is enjoyed by them, that this diiierence is manifest. They are not merely printed in more sections of our country, but they are much superior in their appearance and their contents, to say nothing of the beauti- ful and highly finished illustrations which make a part of them. Instead of being confined to results at home, they are filled with letters from able correspondents abroad, as well as condens- ed views and extracts from foreign works of high reputation. We have thought it might not be in uninterestingaddition to our appendix to subjoin a list of our agricultural periodi- cals. rhese weeklies and monthlies having more or less extended circulation, exert a very important influence on the public mind, and thus a direction has been given to the public feeling. The effect of this, and the impulse which has been given, are seen in the various channels which are everywhere opening to meet the craving for greater supply. The editors of many of our public journals have discovered that mere political intelligence, or scraps ol lite- rary intelligence and wit, are not all that are demanded from them by the yeomanry of our country. There must ne an agricultural de- partment, or a column, at least, devoted to agri- culture, to secure the patronage of the farmer subscriber; and, accordingly, there are not a few of our political journals which weeklv fur- nish articles, selected or original, on subjects connected with this great branch of American industry. Another means of diffusing such knowledge, is the publication of volumes of standard merit relating to agriculture. We think it truly an auspicious era in our country when such works as Thaer’s, Liebig’s, Johnston’s, Mulder’s, Da- na’s, Petzholdt’s, Youatt’s, and many more too long a list to name here— are brought within the reach of our agriculturists. If they do not at once give up former views, and adopt those which accord both with science and experiment, yet we can hardly doubi that in many ’..ases these will exert a modifying influence on their practice. Gradually they may be led to feel the importance of such things, and another genera- tion, if not the present, will be found to be im- bued with correct principles of agricultural sci- ence. The brilliant success which has attended re- cent demonstrations on the part of the well-trai.n- ed and thoroughly disciplined minds who led the way in the reformation ot agricultural che- mistry and vegetable and animal physiology in their applications to practical use, has prompted new aspirants to fit themselves thoroughly to share in tlie nicer discriminations and new dis- coveries yet to be made. We hail it as a cheering promise in this re- spect, that there are minds of enlarged views and accurate investigation abroad among us, and operating on the most, intelligent of our agricultural population. These authors, whe- ther ot our own or other countries, are only the precursors ot a constantly increasing agricul- tural literature, which is destined to render more efficient the means at our command for cover- ing our land with smiling fields and waving harvests, so that literally the wilderness may yet “bud and blossom as the rose.” The in- creased training ot the youthful mind agricul- turally, is also another feature which augurs well for us. We refer here to elementary trea- tises adapted to the young, to the establishment of agricultural schools, and to the proposed in- troduction, in a degree, of some ot these topics in our common schools. There is much not merely to expand and invigorate, but also to in- teresi the mind, in agriculture, studied in its bearings on various sciences. Chemistry, with its beautiful illustration of combination or de- composition ; geology, with its marvellous and time worn relics ot past ages; entomology, and its curious developemenis; together with all the mysteries ot animal economy, vegetable physiology or botany — all are made to open their treasures and present their attractive claims. The young student is brought thus to a world ol wonders; and his attention once ar- rested, he cannot but find that agricultural stu- dy, in the broad view which should be taken to its domain, has sufflcient to amuse and to dis- cipline the faculties of intellect and heart. Its influence can scarcely fail to be salutary, as it leads nim to the great laboratory ot nature, and shows him how the operations of Providence keep at work the means ot supply, and that de- cay is only succeeded by reproduction in some other form of vegetable life. It is scarcely ne- cessary to say that, with these inspirations of science, he will be the promoter and patron of improvement in every shape, and that he will be foremost in upholding the agricultural club, the County or State association, with its fairs for exhibition of products of industry. These, too, the more they are multiplied, will exert a wider influence. Our countrymen are apt to observe and to invent ; but they need more pre- cision and discipline in the developemenf ot their operations. As these are acquired by a severe training in science, the results will be seen in a thousand ways. We point to one de- sirable improvement which, it it were accom- plished, would doubtless exercise no little influ- ence on our agricultural prospects. We refer to the adoption of some such course as is taken in the great agricultural meetings in various countries ol Europe, where a week is spent by persons brought from all parts in discussing subjects of agriculture, previously arranged in a printed programme. Some idea ot what we mean may be gathered from the perusal of Mr. Fleischmann’s letter, and also the translation of the regulations relating to the great agricul- tural meeting at Breslau last summer. It is true, that something of the same kind on a small scale has been attempted at Albany, Boston, N. York and other places, during the sitting of the State Legislature, or weekly, and we see not why the object might not be attempted and executed successfully on a much larger scale in our own country. Anotlfer ground on which we rest our augury of prospective improvement in this great branch of national industry’ is the application, in new forms of enterprise, of the products of the soil, and of the departments of collateral husbandry. To take a single instance for illustration. It isbut a few years since the improvements were in- troduced by which such quantities of lard and lard oil are prepared tor the market. The bu- siness connected with this has already runout into varied channels, and so it must be with every invention which appropriates the fruits of the farmer’s toil. One branch of laborgives rise to yet another. But our career in this re- spect seems but just begun. The vast increase ot inventions, the numerous shapes through which industry is developed, all furnish reason to believe that we have by no means reached the end of our progress. The enlargement of these outlets of skill and enterprise, and the prospect of increased civilization through our commerce abroad, will undoubtedly have a ten- dency to make our land teem with an industri- ous population, whose wants will multiply as their wealth shall increase ; and thus, through the diversified reciprocities of trade at home and abroad, a more steady and reliable market be created, which shall help to enrich the dili- gent and reward the efforts of successful econo- my. It will not be long, as we confidently be- lieve, before an average uniform price at points equi-distant from the great marts of commerce will be established throughout our land by means ot telegraphic communication, and the facilitiesof conveyance b? so multiplied as to check the inequalities induced by speculation, and give assurance that they who provide by the sweat of their brow for an extending em- pire of freedom, shall not labor in vain. If af- fluence may not be the lot of all, yet steady prices, on which they may count, will aid the contented and industrious spirit to enjoy the comforts and many of the luxuries of life, qf which others in the same employment and oc- cupation in foreign countries are so greatly in need. From considerations like these, (and others, too, might be meaiioned,) if we are not mista- ken, there is ground for cheering augury ot agricultural improvement, which, though its progress may be gradual,, will yet be certain and permanent, as well as productive of happy effects on our country and the world. That there is a rising feeling in favor of agriculture, the ten thousand voices echoing back from eve- ry quarter to us, in approbation ot the humble efforts made from year to year in collecting, and, through their own representatives, laying before our farmers and planters the information of various kinds within our reach, abundantly testifies. We might, likewise, refer to the em- bodiment of this feeling in resolutions at Ihs farmers’ convention, urging the importance of their claims to regard, and as it meets us strong- er and stronger from year to year in the agri- cultural journals in all parts of the country. Never was there a fairer time to aid its devel- opement. Without resorting to more question- able means, which might rather injure than benefit, it lies in the power of those who occu- py places of influence to lend a warm-hearted co-operation to every effort of improvement, and to diff'use as much as possible a generous spirit of enterprise into all the branches ot agri- cultural industry. We indulge, we are sure, in no fancied dreams when we say that the past years have only been the harbinger of a more perfect agricultural economy. It is with presa* ges like these, while we see our bounds enlarg- ed, we watch every indication ot the awaken- ingot the raindof onreountry to the importance of true science and practical knowledge. It is matter of gratulation to learn that a new agri- cultural journal has made its appearance, like a star first breaking through the darkness, in any section ol our land, which, till recently, could furnish no such proof of advancingknow- ledge. The information that a successful ex- periment, too, has added another name to the lists of our products, or that the introduction of some choice specimen, either animal or vege- table, has brought to the agriculturists of those Slates the means of yet greater progress in im- provement, is read with the confident expecta- tion that another impulse has been given to the energies of industry, the results of which after ages will record with grateful satisfaction. Compared to the whole, each individual enter- prise is but as a pebble dropped into the wide waters; but as even that slight motion agitates the nearest surface, and one wavfe after another spreads silently on, yet further and further from the place where it begun; so the community, in increasing circles, will feel the effect of eve- ry such event. One and another will follow on— a township, a county, a State, and yet larg- er portions of our country will in turn welcome the stranger, till it shall have made itself a THE SOUTHERN CULTIYATOR. 134 home, and become domesiicated and acclima- ted among our products, Edo perpetua ! is the prayer of every patriot ss he casts his eye over our land of varied clime, and soil, and product, and people. With no •tinted hand have the gilts of a kind Providence been strewn around us. The earth and its in- crease—-flowers, fruits, animal, bee, worm and fowl— all bear their tribute to supply our wants, and so profuse are the means of sustenance and comfort, that every year, almost, oniy serves to lap us in greater plenty. It is to agriculture— “The art that calls the harvests forth, And feeds expectant nations” — we must look as the oldest employment, and the most necessary occupation of man. Honored, it will make our country glorious in the true strength of a nation-— its virtue, intelligence and enterprise. Neglected, the arm of prosper- ity will be shattered, and our experiment may end in doubt and dismay. Southern Crops and Culture. The following, from the ever busy pen of Dr, Phillips, will be read with interest and advan- tage by every Southern planter. This gentle- man has done much, very much, by both pre- cept and example, towards the improvement of our agriculture; and everything he writes de- serves a careful perusal, This seems to be the first of a series of communications to be made fs the American Agriculturist, The others we will publish as they appear. I know it is impossible to persuade the plant- ers, of the cotton regioh especially, and I doubt not of your Northern country also, that they have any interest equal to the present full crops. As I think there is, when I write, I give my con- victions; I must therefore say what I think, which is, that a;tiro;7er management ot our land is of as much, it not more, advantage in a gen- eral rule, than the making of large crops. If a planter will exert himself to protect land,, he ^will gather for a life-time lair and remune- rating crops ; whereas, by the common careless mode of planting, he will make lor five years good crops, the next five he will make ordinary, the next five still smaller, until within less than twenty or-twenty five years his crops will be so bad, that he is forced to extraordinary ex- ertions in working his land, or to emigrate. Is this not so ? In much of our Northern country, lime, marl and manures are cheap; and conveyance is cheap. These things are demanded on account of the previous bad culture of the cultivators. Here, all these things are dear, but fortunately for us, they are not needed, our soil being com- paratively new, and w’here the surface soil is worn, the subsoil possessing all the requisites of a good soil. We have yet one more ad' an- tage, our winters are so much milder and short- er,we can grow grain cheaper; and the cowpea will grow among our corn without material in- jury. I have repeatedly referred to these facts, but they are in my estimation of so much value and of so easy application, that I must continue to allude to them even if I repeat “line upon line, and preceptupon precept.” The policy is, to protect land from the sun, from washing, and from the exhausting efects of cropping. Whe- ther this can be done, and good crops gathered for 50 to 100 years, I will not dare affirm; but this I will do — much of our lands lying near to the water courses, and the flat lands in the west- ern part of Mississippi, can be kept near their present state of product for many years. We never remove cornstalks from our land, as is done in many portions of the United States; many have burnt them off, as they do cotton stalks — these are therefore generally re- turned to the land. If the pea be sowm among corn about the 1st of June, the vine will cover the land entire before the hotted of our summer be past, and if not fed off, will give a vast quan- tity of vegetable matter to the earth; these, ■with the cornstalk, will nearly counterbalance »be deterioration caused by taking off the corn 1 and the lodder— and it we were to so .v down in October, Egyptian oats or rye, rn corn and cot- ton land, to be left bn the ground until planting time, 1 feel certain that the washing rains of winter would dobut little injury, and that the re- turn to the earth would be ample. There can be no doubt as to the vegetable matter, and 1 presume there is a sufRciency of inorganic mat- ter in our soils to last many years without any material injury ; lor we only export the cotton wool, having, you may say, all the balance to return to the land. What the intrinsic value of cottonseed is, taking the stable manure as a standard, I cannot say; but I am fully convinc- ed that they ought to be used only as a manure. I am satisfied as to feeding hogs with them, hav- ing tried them effectually. The expeiience of all men can never induce me to use them again. I have lost in twelve months lull 60 hog.s, that should now have neiied me 12,000 lbs. ot pork, and which 1 could now sell lor about S500. J say not that my loss is entirely attributable to the seed; but I know that I lost some very choice mixed hogs, •which were killed by the .seed. Asfo feeding cattle with them, I am so doubtful that I exclude my stock entirely. I would then only use them for manure. A bro- ther planter of mine, who is devoted to plant- ing, informs me that he has manured in the drill, and that the yield was about one-third gain, which, if only 300 lbs., would be Jp4 or$5 per acre ; this lor the first year; S2 to $2.50 for the second year ; and SI to $1.25 lor the third, would be some $10 per acre in three years. I would use enough to do permanent good, say about 100 bushels per acre, thus manuring •about one-third of cotton land yearly, at a tri- fling cost. Thus far, the labor and cost is tri- vial, and all the corn land and one-ihird ot the cotton land has been manured. There should be enough rye, oats and peas saved, to plant the succeeding crop. You have no, conception of the quantity of grass that follows an oat or a rye crop, in this country on fair land. I have no doubt but I could have cut a ton per acre, and then left a heavy after-math to turn under. 1 know some theorists deny this — but that mat- ters not. To the above 1 would recommend at least half an acre to be planted per hand of sweet po- tatoes, one-third to one-half of an acre with ar- tichokes. I know that ordinary land producing sav 8 to 10 hundred pounds ol cotton per acre, will produce 1,000 to 1,200 pounds sweet pota- toes. My experience with artichokes is too limited to speak positively ; but when we re- flect that the leaves are large and hairy, thatthe product is from 200 to 1,000 bushels per acre, and that no portion of the crop is fed off from the land, the improvement must be certain. The stalk and leaves contain more alkali than most any other plant yields, and very largely of ashes.' I have understood that some writer has determined — for himself — that sweet pota- toes exhaust the land very much; all 1 can say to this is, f have assisted in planting them for 25 to 30 years, and have made up my mind that a good crop of sweet potatoes, leaving the vines on the ground, is equal to a good manuring. There is yet all the manure from lots, stable and hog pen to use, which, though small, yet will add somewhat to the general result. This can be vastly increased by hauling in leaves and corn-stalks. In addition to the improve- ment from manures, I would urge as equally important, rotation. A friend who dined” with me this day, w'ho was bred to farming, and w ho is no theorist, made confession of his conver- sion to the .■soundness of the doctrine. He was incredulous, and changed this year mostly through necessity. He says, though he was in- jured by worms and a bad stand, that he has made a better crop than he ever had before. If, we will examine into the material taken up by some crops from the earlh, we can see that there is sound reason in the matter. Let us take wheat and oats. Wheat takes up 10 percent, of potash, and 20j ol soda ; whereas, oats re- quire only 6 of the one and 5 of the other. If ; wheat be persisted infer several years, these al- kalizes must become scarce on farm lands; whereas, it a crop that would probably lake less or restore a portion, were planted, and the land allowed to grow up in grass or w'eeds, there would be some certainty of making other good crops. I have seen an improved crop of cotton grown on land after it had grown one crop of oats, which were led off to hogs on the land. Draining is anotherimportant addition. Ma- ny are prepared to pounce on this — “w’hat! drain our lands here when we need so much moisture!” The advantage of draining much of our upland wouldffie sure, in getting a siand of corn or cotton earlier; of its growing off ear- lier; and in course of its needing moisture in midsummer, much less. But if the land be drained so as to draw off the water that the earth cannot absorb, it cannot prevent the earth from retaining as much moisture ; and from be- ing less liable to being impacted by water, vvill really retain moisture longer— besides, the early shading of the land will retain it. By getting corn upearlier, and itgrowiug off earlier, it can be laid by earlier, and thas we shall have more time to attend to cotton. We loose too much lime in fencins, and if we would adopt hedging with the nondescript rose, or the microphylla, we could have lime to labor much at other improvements. Just think ol three-quarters of a mile of fencing per hand and calculate the cost. Why, sir, the yearly cost would pul in the ground a hedge, and one- tenth the expense would keep it up as long as we should live. Besides, limber is more scarce in some regions, and getting so in many others, which will cause an increase of expense. I might say something of pasturage, of its saving of corn, of its ability to keep up stock, etc. But I am tired of writing, and I suppose my friends are of reading. 1 therefore close by subscribing myself M. W. Phillips. Edwards' Depot, Afiss. From Colman’s European Agriculture. Ou the Admixture of Soils. One of the most common and obvious sug- gestions in the improvement of the soil, is that ol rendering, as far as practicable, plastic and adhesive soils tree and permeable; and, on the other hand, that ol making those soils, which are loose and light, close and compact, in the former case, in order to effect the desired object, draining has been applied with great success, and must be regarded as the basis of such im- provements. Without draining, indeed, and a complete riddance of the supeifluous wetness and moisture, little is ever to be hoped for in any case. In order to effect the latter object, roiling with heavy rollers, ana especially treading with sheep, have been resorted to ; and several farm- ers, with whom I have had the pleasure of forming an acquaintance, abandon all expecta- tion ol a crop, unless the ground, alter being sown, is thoroughly trodden by sheep, which treading, for the purpose specified, may be con- sidered even as more effectual than the applica- tion of the roller. But an improvement of a more substantia.! and permanent character is attempted by what may be termed an “admixture of soils;” by the addition of clay to sandy soils, and of sand to clayey soils. In agriculiural books and ad- dresses, I .have often seen this method recom mended, with a great air cl sagacity and confi- dence, as an obvious process of improvement, of very easy accomplishment, by persons who understand little of practical agriculture, and very imperfectly appreciate the difficulties of such a process. The transportation of soil is among the most expensive operations in hus- bandry, and can scarcely be expected to be carried on, on a very extensive scale. To convert a clayey soil into a siliceous soil, or, on the other hand, a siliceous soil into a clayey soil, so as deeply and permanently to change their cha- racter on any extensive surface, must be left to those great geological changes which are alike beyond human prescience, command or con- THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR, 135 trol. Amendineut, rather than change, is all that human skill and ability are likely to effect ; and I shall detail in this matter such examples as have come under my observation. The application ol sand to clay, like the ap- plication of sand to lime in the making of plas- terer’s mortar, has, in general, especially if the clay is wet when the sand is so applied, a ten- dency to give it hardness, rather tnan to render it friable and open. Where the land is in a state of dryness, and newly plowed, the appli- cation ol a limited quantity of sand might serve to render it more open. That this would be the whole effect to be expected from it, and this to a degree uncertain, and that it would effect no chemical alteration in the soil, seems generally agreed. That a portion of silica is essential in the formation of all the cereal plants is establish- ed ; but in all clays there is presumed to be a sufficiency for this purpose. In peat lanus it may be otherwise. A distinguished practical and scientific farmer, the late Mr. Rham, states that he has never known an instance in which the application of sand to clayey soils has been found to succeed in rendering them more po- rous. The expense ol laying on the large quantity of sand that would be required must probably swallow up any profit that could be derived from it. Mr. Pusey, however, showed me an example in which a clay land field in grass had been decidedly benefitted by a top dressing of sand from a neighboring hill. Whe- ther the sand, in this case, had any peculiar chemical properties, from which the benefit of the application was derived, did not appear. It is not so, on the other hand, with the appli- cation of Ciay to light soils; and this has been practised in England so extensively, and with so rnucn success, that I shall detain my reader with some prominent examples. Of the appli- cation of clay in the impiovement of peat lands, i shall speak presently ; 1 no w reier only to its application to sandy and light lands, witha view of giving them compactness. The object of applying clay, indeed, may be twofold; the first to produce a closeness of soil, and the second, that of obviating their too great dryness, the property of clay being to absorb and retain moisture both from the atmosphere and that which falls in rain. One of the most extensive applications of it which I have witnessed, was on the farm of the Duke of Bedford, at Woburn, a place distin- guished, under the care of its present noble pos- sessor, as under that of his eminent predecessor, for a most intelligent, scientific, extensive, and successful husbandry ; in all its various arrange- ments, and the completeness and extent of its operations, surpassed perhaps by no one in the kingdom, or hardly, indeed, rivalled. The intelligent manager of the place, Mr. Burness, states that he finds “ the application of clay to his light soil of great advantage. It makes the straw much stronger, with a better ear, and standing much better up in wet seasons. When the land is highly manured, without be- ing clayed, the crops are liable to fall down, be- come lodged and spoiled.” He adds, likewise, that he finds claying of great advantage to the turnip crop. The practice is to put the clay on the clover leys as early as the crop is off, and get it bro- ken in pieces as much as possible before the land is plowed for wheat. It is also laid on land that is under fallow for turnips early in the winter, that is,, on land which has been plow- ed preparatory to its being cultivated in turnips the ensuing season. This is done that it may have the chance of the winter and spring frosts to become well pulverized before it is plowed down ; and this he prefers to spreading it upon clover leys. He goes on then to speak of some experi- ments. “ We clayed last summer four acres, and left two acres not clayed on an old sward and light soil. The clay was put on in July, and lay all the summer; was plowed up in No- vember, and pressed,” (an operation which I shall describe presently, “and the wheat dib- bled into the grooves. In February, we top- dressed the six acres with good tarmyard dung ; and, as late as the beginning of May, I thought there would not be half a crop, although plenty of ends; but toward the middle of the month the clayed part began to look ol a much darker appearance than the two acres which were not clayed; and, at the present time,” (when he gave this account,) he thought, “there wasone- third part more on the clayed than on that which had not been clayed, although managed in eve- ry other way the same.” He goes on to say that, in January, 1841, he clayed some land which was going to be a tur- nip-fallow the following summer; and in the month of April, when he began to harrow and plow the land, the clay broke down and slaked like lime, and worked in with the soil. There was not much apparent difference in the turnip crop that summer, as the other part of the field was sown at a diferent time, and he was not able to tell the difference; but the ensuing year, he says, “the barley looks much stronger and stiffer in the straw, and stands much more up- right, than in the land which was not clayed, where the greater part of the crop is down on the ground, and exposed to be rotted by the rain.” The quantity applied to the acre is generally about fifty loads; I suppose single horse cart loads are meant. If more is lo be applied, it is advised to make the application at succes- sive times, as, in his opinion, more given at once would do harm. Nearly all the light soil on the farm of the Duke of Bedford, near Wo- burn Ahbey, has been clayed, and a great deal ol it twice; and, in every instance, its benefi- cial effects have been established. I myself can bear witness to the neatness and excellence ol the cultivation, though I had not the plea- sure ol being there when the crops were stand- ing upon the ground. The clay may be dug from the pit at any time most convenient lor the farmer, and, if turned over once or twice, will mix much better with the soil, though, of course, the expense of the operation must, in such case, be increased. Mr. Burness says, his plan is to disand cart it on to the field at once. Mr. Pusey is of opinion that this substance, denominated clay, contains a great deal of lime, and is, in fact, a stiff marl. Anothereininent Bradfordshire farmer, whom I have the pleasure of knowing, speaks of the application of ciay or marl, customary in his neighborhood, as varying from 50 to 150 cubic yards per acre. He deems the smallerquaniiiy preferable at one operation, as it mixes more steadily with the soil, and though it may not last so long, comes sooner into operation. He has applied it to clover leys in summer, and to tur- nip fallows at different times. He advises to have it dug in winter, and to cast it upon the turnip land In the spring, when it has had time to dry, and has become lighter of carriage. We have the testimony of another skillful farmer, a tenant of the Duke of Bedford, who has pursued the practice ol claying land to a great extent. Not satisfied with the quality or quantity ot his produce, he has clayed 420 acres, in every instance with go id effect. Upon the gravel and sand land he has put forty loads per acre, containing forty bushels per load. On the moorland, covered with rushes, he has put seventy loads. The time ot applying it is di- rectly after harvest, or in winter, if there has been a frost. At the former time, it is done with less labor to the horses and less injury to the land. The clay gets dry,, and as soon as rain comes, it may be harrowed about, when, acccrding to his opinion, it will begin to act beneficially to the land by correcting the acidi- ty, of which most lands have too much, thereby making food tor plants of what was inert in the soil, and giving the land that solidity which it required. In one case, he speaks of witnessing the decided advantages Irom it, after a lapse ol fourteen years from its application. The First Bale of New Cottou. The Charleston City Gazette of April 12th, 1788, contains the following notice of the first bale ol Colton produced in the United States, “A correspondent has favored us with the fol- lowing information, which he tells us maybe relied on: A gentleman in Christ Church Par- ish planted one acre of land with Cotton seed, which has produced a bag of cotton wool weigh- ing 267 lbs. nett; this he has sold at 15 pence per pound, so. that he got lor the whole 161. 13s. 9d. ; it was on examination of an exceeding good quality; the planter declares, that had he attended it properly, it would have produced more. He further says, that one of his hands could with ease take care of seven or eight acres, until the Cotton is ready to take in, at which time he must have the assistance of small ne- groes to pick and carry it into safety. As the mode of cleaning it in this country formerly, is what the planters dislike, we have the pleasure to add, that there are persons in this Stale who can make the necessary machines for picking i', as v.’ell as tor carding and spinning it. This commodity bids fair to become a principal sta- ple article of export from this State, for if one negro can manage seven acres of Cotton, and it sells at the above price only, his labor will bring his owner in 1161. 16s. 3d. per annum, supposing also that each acre of land produces only 276 lbs. of Cotton. It is well known that the Cotton manufactories in Great Britain will take any quantity that the State can raise, as they are deemed by good judges to be now only in their inlancy. Southern Liadies. In the number for June of Mr. Skiijneb’s va- uable work, the Farmers' Library, we find the following tribute paid by the editor to Southern f.adies. Everyman who has been brought up in the Southern States, will be able to appreciate the justness of Mr. Skinner’s description. “ The more (he says) any man of discernment sees of the world, and reflects on the relatione subsisting between the offices performed by the various memberathat constitute one family, the more deeply will he be impressed with the digni- ly and importance of the duties which social ar- rangements assign to the mistress of every well regulated family, and the high honor and esteem to which she is entitled when those duties are well performed. “ Let but her part bo neglected, or carelessly, or ill-performed, and chaos soon takes the place ot order, neatness and economy take their de- parture, and domestic misery and ruin arv too sure to enter, close on the heels of pride and in- dolence. There is nothing more beautiful, no- thing to which a sensible man more readily pays the homage of his admiration and respect, on his entrance in the domestic circle of the old Southern States, than the cheerfulness and ala- crity with which he still sees the ladies there, both mother and daughters, of the most opulent and best bred families, play out in full measure their appropriate parts in the management of domestic affairs, and when occasion "demands, «ven of the out door concerns. To b a familiar with all the duties of housewifery, seems to form, in fact, as we have lately witnessed with high gratification, a part of the education of young ladies of the amplest fortune, the most refined manners, and the highest intellectual cultiva- tion. And where, it may well be asked, can beauty and intelligence be seen to more advan- tage than in the exercise of duties which do and ought to constitute a great portion of the em* olovment, sometimes of daughters on whom tha loss of a mother may devolve the care of a household, and especially of every married wo- man who would see her husband prosperous; respected and happy? “ All who are at all familiar with the history of rural life in the old plantation States, must know of instances of remarkable women, who, with an energy of character almost beyond their sex, have grappled with adversity brought on by the indolence, extravagance or misfortunes of their husbands; and while clearing their estates of the most frightful embarrassments, have contrived to educate their families, and finally to leavo them in the enjoyment of their wonted respeota bility and independence. Forever honored be the memories of such noble women." 136 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVAl’OR ®l]e 0ciutl)etn iJiultiaBtor. AUGUSTA, GA. VOL. IV.. KO. 9..SKt"rJEMBE£l, 1846. The PresS““Ourselves. Our brethren of the press have recently placed us under such obligations for their many hind and flattering notices of our efforts in the cause of South- ern Agriculture, that we scarcely know how to relieve ourselves. All we can do in return for these repeated courtesie.s is to tender our most sincere and grateful acknowledgments. D3“The proposition of the editors of the South Carolinian," we accept with great pleasure. The cuts may be sent by railway. |I5= An accourit of the formation of the Monroe and Conecuh Agricultural Society, and the Address of Dr. Watkins, on being elected President, came to hand too late for this number of the Cultivator. Mr. P, Davidson’s article on “Mineral Ma- nures,” is also laid over for October, for the same rea- son. Col. McDouald’s Proposition. Just as our paper was going to press, we re- ceived the unwelcome intelligence of the death of this devoted friend of Agriculture ; an elo- quent tribute to whose virtues, in all the social relations of life, from those who knew him best, will be found in this number. This melancholy event will necessarily con- tract our remarks on the present occasion. We cannot, however, do less than call upon the friends of Southern Agriculture to rally to the support of his proposition, not less as a memento of Ills noble zeal in their cause, than in justice to themselves. Let it be carried out to the let- ter, and you will have cause to venerate his name, and your children will rise up and call him blessed. He was indeed your friend. Imitate there- fore his example, and make this proposition the crowning act of a well spent and virtuous life. In presenting the names of those who have thus early requested to be numbered among the THOUSAND, we should be pleased to have ac- companied the list with their very flattering and encouraging letters, but our space will not permit. We must therefore content ourselves with simply appending the list of names, plac- ing at the head of the column the distinguished mover, as a tribute to his zeal in the cause ; Col. a. McDonald, Eutaula, Ala. E. McCroan, Louisville, Geo. T. W. Rucker, Elberton, " C. Dougherty, Athens, “ G. B. Haygood, Watkinsville, Geo. Wm. T. DeWitt, Hopewell, Ala. H. E. Chitty, Henry Co,, Ala. Wm. Cunningham, Monroe Co.,, Ala., C. B. ZuBER, White Sulphur Springs, Geo. J. C. Henderson, Macon Co., Ala. In addition to these, John H. Newton of Athens assures us he willsend us one hundred subscribers. C. T. Wit^liams, of iSieriweiher, and A. Green of Greene county, promise to send us as -many as they can. W^hose name shall we enter next upon this listl Friends of Agriculture ! speak out! Hay. In no department of Agricultural knowledge are Southern Planters so far behind the age, as in ihat which relates to raising grass, and cut- ting and curing hay. Many eflorts, indeed, have been made to in'roduce foreign grasses, but nearly all have resulted in failure, partly from bad management, but chiefly because the grasses with which the e.xperiments were made, being natives of more northern climes, cannot with- stand the power of our Southern sun. In the memtime, everything in the shape of native grass has been neglected. Crab grass especial- ly has been an object of peculiar abhorrence — so much so, that, until very lately, it has been al- most impossible to persuade any one, that there is a single good quality about it for any purpose whatever. So too with Bermuda grass— a grass that in India, in the time of Sir William Jones, was worshipped, because it was looked upon as a special gift of their Deity, bestowed for the food of the Sacred Bull. In these Southern States no language has been strong enough wherewithal to condemn it. In the belief that many of the prejudices against these two grasses are being overcome by the in I fluencs of good sense ; and that our readers would be pleased to know how to turn both of them to the very best account — crab grass espe- cially, as it is so abundant and so luxuriant this year — we have copied from the Albany Cultiva- tor the following discusfion on the proper stage I for cutting grasses, and the best modes of mak- ing hay. Everyone of the speakers is knovrn ! extensively as an eminent Agriculturist; and ! living in a region where grass is the main crop, their opinions are entitled to great respect : Mr. Bement said he had formerly been in the habit of cutting timothy grass quite late. It was easier cured after it had got pretty ripe. But he found in using hay thus cut, that it wanted sub stance, and he had ascertained that the best time for cutting was while the grass was in blossom. In making clover hay, he had adopted Judge Duel’s plan. He thought it best not to expose it much to the sun. His practice was to cut in the morning, let it ’ay till noon, and then cock it, and let it swmat for two or three da vs, according to the state of the weather. On putting the hay in the barn, he had used about four quarts of salt to the ton. Hay thus managed, came out in the spring very bright . nd sweet In the ordi- nary way of curing clover hay, the best parts are wasted. Mr. Howard %vas aware that there were differ- ent opinions as to the proper stage for cutting grass ; but he thought the observance of certain principles might afford a guide in the case. For example, the stems of grasses were filled, just before the formation of the seed with a starchy or saccharine substance. In perfecting the seed, the sterns were exhausted of this substance, it being consumed ill forming seed. Nbw, if the I herbage, is tire object, the plant should be cut I before the nutriment has passed from the stems. If seed is the object, the plant must, of course, be allowed to attain a good degree of maturity. Hay made from ripe grass may ‘go further,’ or ‘ spend better,’ as the argument is ; and it is ad- mitted that this may be true, for animals are less inclined to eat it ; but this is no proof that it is more nutritive. He spoke of the different modes of curing hay, with nearly all which he said he had been acquainted. Clover hay was altogeth- er better when cured in cock, than by any other mode he knew practised. All hay was better for undergc ing, to some extent, a sweating in the cock. Coarse timothy was thus rendered much softer, and was less sirawy . and stiff, and every description of hay less likely lobe' mow-burned.’ Mr. Betts was not in favor of mowing a great deal of grass while the dew is on. He was in the habit of spreacing the swaths as soon as the ground was dry, and he always had it well cock- ed up beiorc night. The next day, if the weath- er w as good, he opened it again ; if it did not dry enough, he put it together again ; but his ol ject was to get it so that it v. ould do to put it in the barn. He was in favor of using a little salt with it. He had sometimes found his hay heat too much in the mow. From being hurried, he had occasionady put a load in the barn too green. To stop the heat and fermentaiion w h;ch had en- sued in such cases, he had made holes in the hay with a crow bar, and scattered in salt. In this way he had stopped the fermentation, and saved his hay in very good order. Mr. Gaeretson, of the assembly, from F utch- ess county, said he generally cut from 150 to 200 tons per year, chiefly timothy and red-top. He generally begun when the grass was in blossom. His I ethod was to cut in the morning, spread the swaths lightly, and in the alternoon put it in cocks. The next day, if the sun came out, it was again spread, and, if made enough, put in the barn with a lit tie salt sprinkled on it. About three quarts of salt to ihe ton w as as much as he used. There w’as danger of using too much.— He had formerly used more salt, and was satis- fied his animals, particularly shtep, had suffered by it. It occasioned scouring, and, by keeping their bowels out of order for some time, they died. He usually got about two tons to the acre. In the latter part of the season, it would sometimes make enough in one day. Mr Mack always directed his men to make hay as rapidly as possible. He had often made it and put in the barn in one day, and never had belter hay. He was always particular to secure from dew when it must be left over night. It is said by some who had much practice in making hay, that it is never injured 1 om its own inter- nal juice, but only from rain or dew. Mr. S,oTHAM did not like the plan of salting hay, neither did he like the hay that was made in one day. If it could be so made that it would take no hurt in one day, it nrust have been too dry for good hay before, it was cut. or els j very light burden. He would as soon have good bright straw for cows or sheep, as timothy hay altet it had gone to seed. He cuts clover when a part of it is in blossom and part in the head ; cuts all his grass early. It takes longer to make hay cut this early; but for cows, and sheep especially, it was a great deal better. The objection to salt- ing hay was that animals were forced to eat salt, whether they wanted it cr not, and it made sheep scour. His hay came out of the barn of a bright green color, and his stock would fatten on it. — There was another great advantage in cutting early; the roots retained their life and strength better, and the after feed and future crops were much more abundant. He did not like timothy for hayi; he never saw it in England; the farmers there thought it was too coarse and wiry for stock. Rye grass made good hay ; would yield in England two tons per acre. Pacey’s was the best variety. Red-top made good hay. He had tried sainfuin; it did not come up well; there was always a difficulty about it in this respect, because the seed was good or.ly a short time ; it could hardly be brought across the ocean and vegetate. If we could get it here it would be very valuable, especially for dry lands. As to pastuiing mowing lands, some land would not bear it, particularly if wet ; but he f d his dry lands very close, in the fall, with cattle and sheep, and expel ienced no damage Irom it. Judge Cheever said he would cut his clover in blossom — not sooner. He would let it t ke the sun one day, but not enough to have the leaf break off; then putit in small cocksand cure it, until, by a few hours’ drying, by turning over and bieaking the cocks, the fluids would be so far out cl it that it may be housed without hurt- ing. The length of lime necessary to cure it, will depend upon the state of the weather, and the larger or smaller growth of the crop. Upon this the farmer must.exercise his judgment. He would not cut timothy until it had passed out of the blossom. Professor Davy, in his Agricul- tural Chemistry, says that 64 parts of clover hay, THE SOIJTHERN CULTIVATOR. 137 cut in blossom, produced 10 parts of nutritive matter, and the same taken in seed; timothy, 10 parts in blossom and 23 in seed. This, in timothy, is probably too much ; but tha' the nu- tritive matter in timothy improved after the fall of the blossom, he had no doubt. Red-top comes to maturity latei, and he did not think there was much difference whether cut in blossom or soon after. He believed timothy cut in blossom would, pound for pound, produce more milk, when feLo cows or sheep, than it would cut afterwards ; but for horses and other stock, he thoufflit it more nutritious to stand a little long- er. It certainly improved in weight. He preferred mowing his hay, as far as he could, when free from dews or water. He let the swaths take the sun a few hours, until the top got a little wilted or seared, before turning. It thus held up the greener parts when turned over and spread, and permitted the air to circu- late under it. It also jave the ground between the swaths time to dry, which was important in hastening the curing. In this way, he avoided the necessity of turning the hay after being spread, which was one of the most tedious pro- cesses through which the hay had to be passed, and of course the most expensive. He never permitted his hay to take dew when it had sun enough to wilt it considerably, if he could help it. The de-w discolored it, and he had never been able to restore the fine fresh color after wards. He preferred letting his hay stand over night in the cock. He could then better tell of its fitness to be housed. It is very easy to break up the cocks and give it more sun if necessary, and the slight fermentation or sweating in the cock; which is checked and dried oft in catting, is a gre it preventive against heating in the mow. Hay heated in the mow is sure to be discolored. Some people insist that it is not injured for feed- ing, especially to cattle. It may be so. I know that flour, corn, or oats, which have been heat- ed until they are musty, are thought not so good. I do not know why hay should be. On the approach of rain, I always put all the hay that has had any sun of consequence in the cock. If the-storm is a long one, it m.ay turn yehow, so that it cannot be restored, but it will retain most of its nutritive matterandits weight ; whereas, if left spread out to take the rain, it loses both, andis much worse discolored. I nev- er use salt upon my hay but upon compulsion. When the weather is good, I dry my hay suffi- ciently to kee,', and as soon as I can I house it : but sooner than leave it out to take a storm, even in the cock, 1 would put it in a little short dried, and apply salt to save it, as I would soon- er have it salted than musty. Dr. Lee thought it the best way to mow grass after the dew was oft ; spread it, dry it as much as possible, and rake it into winrow. If it was dried enough — and it would frequeittiy be so — he would load it from the winrow, and save the la- bor of cocking it up. Sumach. Ever since we called the attention of Southern Planters to Sumach as a crop Likely to be profit- able, we have been endeavoring to collect the information necessary to enable vs to answer such inquiries as those contained in the following let- ter. As yet we have not been able to get the information we wanted. We have no personal experience on the subject, and those persons to whom we have written have not as yet replied to our inquiries. Our readers must, therefore, ex- ercise a little patience, resting assured, in the meantime, that they shall have, in due season, all the information we can collect on the subject from any trustworthy source : Mr. Camak : — Some of your readers with my- self are anxious to know the mode of cultivating and preparing for market the Sumach, and if the planter would be remunerated for abandoning other crops. We would be glad to know the value of the consumption in the United States, the probable quantity grown here, and the quan- tity impoited. Your readers, no doubt, will be glad to hear what information you iray possess upon the subject at length, as many may not have the books you may refer to. Yours, &c., Bath, August \, 1846. C. W, Asparagus. Coming so early in spring, and being withal, when properly grown and cooked, so palatable and so healthful, every thing connected with the growl h and improvement of Asparagus must be interesting. We have, therefore, given to the following article a prominent place in our paper, in the hone that it may induce those who have Asparagus beds to treat them properly, and those who have none, to set about furnishing them- selves with the means of enjoying the luxury of good Asparagus. Every direction contained in the article is good — and the results stated are sure to follow — saving and excepting the size. We don’t underwrite, by any means, that it will be as large as “ my hoe handle ” It wil, be large enough, however, for any use. Particularly as to cutting, is the direction important. Let any one try it, and our word for it, he will never thereafter have his Asparagus cut underground : How TO Raise “ Giant” Asparagus. — There are sold in the seed stores several sorts of aspa- ragus, which claim to grow to unusual size, and produce giant stalks. I have bought and planted these sorts, and found them not perceptibly dif- ferent from the common old sort. I want to tell you and your readers, if you will have a little patience with me, how i grow com- mon asparagus, so that it will always rival any g'ant production, whether from Brobdignag or Kentucky. Every one who has seen my beds has begged £e for the seed — thinking it a new sort — but I have pointed to the wanure heap — the farmer’s best bank — and told them that the seciet all laid there. The seed was only such as might be had in every garden. About the first of November —as soon as the frost has well blackened the asparagus tops — I take a scythe, and mow all close to the surface of the bed ; let it lie a day or two, then set fire to the heap ot stalks, burn it to ashes and spread the ashes over the surface of the bed. I then go into my barn-yard : I take a load of clean fresh stable manure and add thereto half a bushel of hen dung ; turning over an J mixing the whole together, throughout. This makes a pretty powerful compost. 1 apply one such load to every twenty feet in length of my asparagus beds, which arc six feet wide. With a strong three pronged spml, or fork, I dig this dressing under. The whole is now left for the winter; In the spring as early aspjssible, I turn, the top of the bed over lightly, once more. Now, as the asparagus grows naturally on this side of the ocean, and loves salt water, I give it an abun- dant supply of its favorite condiment, I cover the surface of the bed about a quarter of an inch with fine packing salt— it is n at too much. As the spring rain comes down, it gradually dis- solves. Not a weed will appear during the wholeseason. Everything else, pig-weed, chick- weed, purslane, a 1 refuse to grow on the top of my briny asparagus beds. But it would do your eyes good to see the strong, stout, tender sta'.ks of the vegetable itself pushing through the sur- face early in theseasen. I do .lOt at all strelcli a point, when I say they are often as large round as my hoe handle, and as tender and succulent as any I ever tasted. The same lour.d of treat- ment is given to my bed every year. I have a word to say about cutting asparagus, and then I am done. Market gardeners, and I believe a good many other people, cut asparagus as soon as the point of the shoot push s an inch or two through the ground. They have then about two inches of what grows above ground, and about four or six inches of what grows be- low. The latter looks while and templing; I suppose people think that for the same reason that the white part of celery is tender the white part of asparagus must be too. There is as much difference as between a goose and a gander It is as tough as a slick; and this is the reason why people, when it is boiled, always are forced to eat the tops and leave the bottom of the shoots on their plates. My way is, never to cut any shoots of aspara- gus below the surface of the ground. Cut it as soon as it has grown to proper height, say five or . six inches above gro.und. The whole is then green, but it is all tender. Served with a little drawn butter, it will melt in your mouth. If your readers have any doubt of this, from hav- ingbeeninthe habit, all their lives, of eating hard sticks of white asparagus, only let them cut itboth ways, and boil it on the same day, keeping the two lots separate, and my word for it, they will never cut another stalk below the surface of the bed. North Carolina Farming. In the Southern Cultivator for February last, (page 27, vol. 4,) we gave an account of the production of 11 3^ bushels of corn, on an acre of land, in Buncombe county, N. Carolina. This statement naturally excited a good deal of in- quiry as to the means by which this result was produced. The editor of the North Carolina Planter, addressed a letter to Mr. Patton, on whose farm the corn grew, and received the fol- lowing very interesting answer : Pleasant Retreat, N. C , Jan. 2d, 1816. Dear Sir — I hasten to rep y to your favor of the 19ch ult. Vour request would have been complied with sooner but for the absence of Mr. Patton and myself, until the present time. 1 he land on which the corn in question was produced is river bottom, dark sandy soil, one year previous in clover pasture, turned under (in December) from 10 to l2 inches deep, with a large casi mould-board two horse p ow. It laid in that condition until the first of April. It was then what we call 1 sted, which is to make one urrow the width we wish our rows and then run one on either side of the rirst lurrow, so as to make a small ridge where the first furrow was made. Ours was done with what ave call the twisting shovel, called by some the half shovel, about two-thi ds the depth of the first breaking, and the rows 4 feet distance; and the last of April we laid it off’ for planting, crossing the ridges 3 feet distance about the same depth of the last plowing ; so making the hills distant 4 feet one way, and three the other. We then took manure from a hog pen, avhere hogs has been fed a considerable length cf time, and putone common shovelfull to every three hills on a part of the ground; 'he other part we put manure in from a cow pen, where cows were penned and f d every night, the manure put up in heaps in winter ar.d let stand so until taken to the field. The manure, after put out in the hills, was mixed up with the soil with shovels, and then the corn dropped on it, and covered three or four inches deep. I put 4 grains to a hill, and when the young corn had from four to five leaves on it, I thinned it, leaving three sia'ks in a hill, taking out generally the middle stalk, so as to give what was left better room. At this stage I gave it the first plowing with the com- mon shovel plow, deep and as close as 1 could run the plow, without covering the corn, follow- ing with the hoes levelling the earth round the hill, not hilling or hoeing up any earth round the corn. I gave it a second and third plowing, fol- lowing, in the same manner as at first, with the hoe. 1 L not r, collect the exact number ot days between the plowings, but think about 14 or 15. The two last plowings were performed with the twisting shovel, and the last plowing considerably shallower than the first, and not so Close to the corn. The part that was manured from the hog pen grew up lasterin the spring and was of a darker green throughout the season, and was better corn than the par' manured from the cow pen. I am inchned to think, and from experience too, that either is better on sandy soil than stable ma- nure, and not as liable ;o fire on any kind of soil we have. I have endeavored to give you as correct a statement as I could do, how the thing,” (as you term it,) "is done in Bunkum.'’ I am no more than a plain h .'iuespun Buncoinbits, and hope you will excuse my plain and blunt manner of writing. ’Very respectfully, your ob’t. serv’t., A. Porter. Thos. J. Lemay, Esq., Raleigh, N. (J. CORB ECTION.— In the remarks prefacing a letter from W. R. Ross to Dr. Cunningham, under the head of “Subsoil Plowing,” in our Jub' No., page 106, 4th line, the words “ ConscUntmh point” should read “ commencing point.” 138 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. Ueatli of Col. A. McDouald. The Eufaula (Ala.) Shield ol tae 221 inst. comes to us clad in the habiliments ol mourn- ing lor the late Col. Alexander McDonald. Though personally unknown to us, we have been lor ye. rs lamiliar with his name and es- timable character, and we should be derelict in our duty, while paying this brief tribute to the memory ol a sincere Christian and zealous phi- lanthropist, not to acknowledge his many and repeated kindnesses to us as publishers ot the Southern Cultivator, w'ith the last most no- ble effort in behalf of which our readers are fa- miliar. From the Eufaula Shield. Death of Col. McDonald — The sad duty devolves upon us lo record the sudden and mel- ancholly death ot our esteemed friend and use- ful lellow-citizen, Alexander McDonald. He died at his residence in this place, on Sunday morning last, the 16th inst. A week previous to his demise, he was in the enjoyment ot fine health, as robust and ac- tive as we had ever known him, — but a lew days sickness ended his mortal career— and he lives in another and happier state ot existence. Our friend enjo)ed a high reputation among all who had the pleasure of his acquaintance. He was, emphatically, an honest man — he wronged no man in reputation or purse — he spoke evil ol none, and his motto seemed to be, “ to do all the good he could, and as little harm as possible.” But we did not take up our pen to write an eulogy upon the character ot our departed Iriend, — the reader will find below an obit- uary, prepared by one ot his agricultural friends, in which his efforts to promote the great cause ol Agriculture are particularly no- ticedanother article is in preparation, by a member of the Church to which he was attach- ed, in which his character as a man and Chris- tian, will be held up as an example worthy of imitation. Sutfice it then, lor us to add, that Alexander McDonald lived the life of a Chris- tian, and died as he had lived — expressing a readiness to answer the summons, it the Lord, in his wisdom, should see fit to call him Irora time to eternity. He has left an affectionate wite to mourn his sudden departure— and while she drops the tear ol griet over the mound ol earth which marks the resting place ol his mor- tal remains, her wounded spirit is soothed by the assurance that she wilt meet hi.m again — “ W here sick.iess and sorrow, pain and death. Are felt and feared no more” Obituary — Departed this life, on the morn- ingot the I6ih inst. at his late residence in Eu- laula, Barbour County, Ala., Col. Alexander McDonald, in the fiity-fifth year of his age. Col. McDonald was, for many years of the latter part ol his life, a devoted Iriend to the cause of Agriculture. He not only wrote much in favor of the cause of Agriculture, as the sheets of many ot the leading Agricultural works will attest, but he took an active and leading part in holding up and sustaining the Barbour County Ag. icultural Society. It of- ten happened, in the history ot this Society, Irom its peculiar location, in a new and unset- tled country, that it had to struggle through many difficulties. Amid all these limes of trial,. Col. McDonald would never, for a mo- ment, relax his exeitions. The surrounding difficulties appeared only to stimulate him to new exertions — and often, when all but him- self, had despaired ot its continued existence, by his untiring exertions, he would, in some way, manage to revive its dormant existence, and bring it into new and improved lite and action. His exertions in the cause of Agriculture, appeared to be particularly directed to the cul- ture ot Cotton and the i.nprovement ot its sta- ple, In this department he was unsurpassed by any one in this section of country, and equal- led but by tew, in the quality of his cotton. Col. McDonald has, also, distinguished him- self, in his late liberal offer to be one ol a thou- sand to procure twenty thousand subscribers for the Southern Cultivator; and we fear that this laudable undertaking will suffer from his de- cease. This active friend to the cause ot agriculture, now rests from his labors. His work on earth, is done. His friends teel a well-grounded hope, that he is now reaping the rewardof a well-spent lite. His example remains for us to imitate; but his cheering voice in the great cause of Ag- riculture, is forever hushed in the silence of death. C. Yankee Farming. We have often, in the pages of the Cultivator, referred to the neatness, economy, industry and enterprise prevailing on farms in New England: — so often indeed, and in such terms, as perhaps to make some Southern Planters despair of ever attaining to any thing like the same perfection, in the practice of their profession. Now, as a small crumb of comfort to such despondents, if any such there happen to be, we present to them another view of Yankee Farming. How must our lazy conks of the sunny South be exalted in their own estimation, when they learn that “two thirds of the New England Farmers,” notwith- standing all that has been said in their praise, carry on their business pretty much as the like business is very generally carried on here. Read the letter which follows. We find it in the "Boston Ploughman — and really it reads very much like a description of very common South era management; — so much of it at least as de- scribes the practice of the aforesaid “two thirds of the New England Farmers.” Save all the Manure. — Mr. F7c?r7or,— Ma- nure! Manure! What can a farmer do without it 1 What ca?i’t he do with it '? And yet though all may admit its worth, how far from economi- cai are many in its manufacture or application. If the yards are well filled with “stuff from the sides of the road” once a year, and well plowed through the summer they consider nothing more can be done in the way of “making manure.” Now, for a moment, to consider what we de- pend on to impart value to our compost heap. Of chiet importance is the solid excrement of our stock. Two thirds of the New England farmers allow the sun and rain to waste half of this arti- cle. HowT Why! They throw it out from their stables daily on to the heap in just sufficient quantity to shingle it well over so that by the next morning’s contribution that of the previous day is as dry as a last year’s robin’s nest! If, instead of the sun, we should have a “dull spell,” the heap fares little better. The fall of several hogsheads of water from the eaves, washes off’ the finest part into the road, or perhaps the well. Then as to liquid manure. Our friends who practice as above stated, don’t know anything about it. Their barns set -flat on the ground. All that falls, escapes to the ground, or diies up on the floor. Again, look at the cow-yard All the droppings lie scattered about, game for chickens, if it should be a fair day, no risk o’f clean stives at night! Without any apology, a .^’evv words as to my way. I occupy a barn with a cellar, which is my hog-pen. A scuttle in the floor enables me to tip down a load of rich earth from the bank of the river, every few days. I keep the hogs at work mixing this up with all the droppings, which, whitfioutthe least exposure, areputdown. Rainy days, when some of my neighbors “go a fishing” I slake a cask of lime down the scuttle, and then step in among very respectable com- pany and finish what they may not have com- pletely done. Manure is the /bud of plants in a great mea- sure. Something may be obtained from the at- mosphere and 'he earth, still manure is the cause of beautiful and luxuriant vegetation. Let none be wasted! Save it all ! Concord, July ISth, 1846. W, D. B. Original (fTainmnuications. Greeu Barley a Substitute for ludiaii Corn. Mr. Camak : — Having noticed in the May No. of the Cultivator, an inquiry from one of your South Carolina correspondents in regard to Bar- ley, and not having noticed in any of the suc- ceeding numbers a response to that inquiry, I hope you will consider it in good place, as the season is fast approaching for sowing, to sug- gest a few particulars, the result of some expe- rience and observation, touching the cu’tivation and use of thisimpo.tant and too much neglect- ed grain. 1 say important, because it is the de- liberate opinion of the writer that there is no small grain of more importance to the farmer, or that will make so profitable a yield to the same quantity of ground. That it is neglected needs no demonstration, as perhaps there is not one do- zen farmers in every fifty in the South who make any sort of advantageous and successful use of this almost perfect substitute for Indian corn. Having been a peculiar subject of the unprece- dented drought of 1843, which for a time hung like an incubus upon the energy and industry of the agriculturists, paralyzing, in some sections, his best directed efforts, 1 immediately set about taxing my managing and ec momical powers, to see if anything could be done to make up for a deficiency of corn, where not more than one- fifth of a crop was realized. Among the most successful of these efforts was that made in the cultivation of Barley. After hauling a considerable quantity of stable manure, ashes, rotten straw, &c., upon a little more than one acre of thin land, suflBcient, I v\ ould say, not to be more particular, to give the entire surface a tolerably good coat — the lot was well broken up, having previously spread the manure as regularly over the surface as could be conveniently done. The barley was then sown, about a bushel and a half to the acre, and well plowed in. This was about the lOih of Oc- tober. The whole was then turned loose to the seasons until some time in February, having kept fat during this time a latge gang of pigs, wdth- oul a grain of corn The winter, being unusual- ly severe, thinned the stand very much, perhaps one-sixth the quantity which stood upon the lot having perished by cold. At the above specified time, February, my mules and horses were growing quite thin under hard service upon the daily use of twenty-four ears of corn, cutoats, fodder, straw, &c , in suffi- cient quantity. A resort was now made to the green barley, it having grown sufficiently high to grasp in the hand and cut with a rcap-hook. It was soon ascertained that this food was prefered by tile stock to all other kinds, corn not excepted. A reduction was therefore made in the quantify of corn, from twenty-four ears per day down to only five, to each horse or mule at night, and the other food considerably lessened. Under this latter course of feeding my mules and horses im- proved and did better than upon the original plan above stated. This small lot continued an abundant supply for six head of working animals for nearly two months, filling three large troughs each day at noon and night during the whole time. The re- sult was a neat saving of at least fifty bushels of corn, and a considerable amount of oats, fodder &c. In addition to all this, theie was great im- provement in the health and appearance of the stock. These animals were kept at hard work during the time they were fed upon this green food, not- withstanding which fact, they did not sweat or scour more than ordinarily. This is a remarka- ble fact, not understood by the writer, as all other kinds of green food used to the same extent by working animals, will produce these effects moro or less. These facts have suggested the belief, that green barley is sui generis, possessing pe- culiarly fibrous, esculent and nutritious qualities not contained ia any other species of green food. Green wheat and oats were also used, of which the former is best, but neither can be fed to working animals to any great extent without the ordinary quantity of corn and fodder at the same time, as they will weaken and reduce the animal by sweating and scouring. I have also been informed that green rye will not answer alone for working animals, it not being sufficient- ly nutritious to sustain them during hard labor, and is liable to weaken by sweating and purging,. THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 139 It is believed, from the writer’s experience and observation, (and this opinion has been abundant- ly confirmed by some of .he best farmers in this portion of Georgia.) that green barley in the eprmg of the year is the best food for horses k town in this country, when combined with a small quan- tity of corn and fodder or cut oats. Horses kept stabled and well attended to otherwise, will fat- ten faster on an abundance of green barley, a little meal and cut oats, than upon any other combination of food known in this country. This is a matter of experience alone, in iepend- ent of chemical analysis. Whether the elemen- tary principles which exist in fat are superabun- dant in green barley, the writer has had no means of determining, not being prepared to analyze the article. The rule to be observed in feeding working an- imals, or those to be fattened, is to keep them well salted, give a little dry food, and then give them as much barley as they can consume, which is no small quantity, as they are exceed- ingly fond of it, preferring it to all other kinds of food. Green barley is also an excellentfood for milch cows, sheep and hogs, fattening the latter almost equal to corn. There is very little doubt that a luxuriant pasturage of barley will keep hogs in better health and order than all the corn that is comnionly spared by farmers for hog feeding. As barley is of a very exuberant growth, small fields from five to ten acres of it could be culti- vated with but little expense for this purpose, and thereby save all the trouble and expense of feeding hogs on corn during the winter and spring. In addition to all this, after the hogs have grazed all winter and spring, up to the first of April, they may then be taken off and the bar- ley will seed, and make a fine yield if the ground is well manured. After saving a sufficiency for seed the hogs may again be turned on the pas- ture ; and the writer affirms, without jest, that of all the grain that he has yet tried, barley seeded wifi make a poo" hog cur! his tail the soonest. But be careful to keep other stock from the pas- ture, after the barley begins to get dry, as the long beards will make the mouth sore, and also lodge in the throat and produce a bad cough This does not occur with the hog, he masticates the dry heads with impunity. It may be under- stood then, that dry barley, before it is threshed out, does not answer for the cow or horse. But after the heads are well beaten and broken with the flail, so that the mouth and throat will not sustain injury by the beards, a bushel of barley is said to be superior to the same quantity of corn for any kind of stock. To every farmer at the South who has not yet cultivated barley, I would say, fail not to make the followfing experiment the coming fall : Lay off a lot one acre and a fourth in extent, haul out a sufficient qnantitv of stable manure, ashes, rotten cotton seed, either or all combined, to co- ver its whole surface, so that there will be no mistake about its being rich, for if it is not rich it v.fiJl not answer for barley. Then use a sub- soil plow, long coulter, or some long plow, if neither of the first named arc at hand. After breaking up once or twice thoroughly when the ground is in good order, sow from a bushel and a half to two bushels barley, as regularly as pos- sible. and plow or harrow in, and without a re- markable accident, the writer vouches, that .there will be no acre upon the farm, that will make so profitable a yield. Nothing larger than small pigs should be per- mitted to run on the lot. as treading will prevent the luxuriant growth of the barley. As soon af- ter Christmas as it gets high enough to cut with a reaping hook or mowing scythe, it is ready to commence upon, and by the time you have'eut over your lot it is ready to cut over again, and so on for several times. After it gets high it may be cut with the cradle. It should be cut regularly each time, as any that may be left will go to seed, and probably be gathered at the next cutting and injure the horses’ mouths. One-fifth pf the lot should be reset ved without cutting for seed. If farmers who have from ten to twenty head of working animals would prepare and sow three lots of this sort, successively on the first Sep- tember, October and November, they could have a continued supply of the best and healthiest food for their stock throughout the spring. But let me repeat to any farmer who may chance to pome short in corn, that barley cultivated suc- cessfully is a perfect substitute for this staff of life, so far as specified in the preceding remarks. I lorgot to mention at the proper place that cow-penning is an excellent way of preparing those lots, if thoroughly done. Respectfully, A. C. Rogers. Woodlavm, Crairford Co., Ga., Aug. 1, 1846. Respect for Labor. Mb. Camak ; — It has always been the avow'ed object of our agricultural journals and societies, not only to imjtrove the soil and increase the pro- ducts of the country, but to elevate Agriculture as a profession. Your correspondent will at- tempt to show, that they have not yet fully suc- ceeded in attaining the latter object, and that many popular notions of the day in regard to the respectability of the learned professions, are fraught with injury not only to the planting in- terests in particular, but to society itt general. That agriculture does not occupy that rank among the professions which it so justly merits, and is destined yet to assume,, is obvious to the most casual observer. In fact, the great mass of the people regard Medicine, Law, and many other professions of life, as far superior to it in pointof respectability. And strange to say, this belief is fostered and encouraged by the planter^ themselves. In vain may the honest and hard- working yeomanry of our land complain of the low esteem in which agriculture is held, while they pursue a policy so adverse to their interests — so suicidal in its very nature. It appears to be a great desideratum that the youth of the coun- try should distinguish themselves or "astonishthe natives;” and to accomplish this desirable end, they are advised to abandon the pursuits of their forefathers and embark in the speculations of trade, or, v.’hat still more gratifying to parent- al vanity, study some of the learned professions. By paternal influence, the talents and energy of the country are thus diverted from their proper channel, and the unhappy victims of a false am- bition are throwm upon the tender mercies of public professions to reap their precarious and uncertain rewards. As a necessary conse- quence, too, these highly lauded pursuits are completely over-stocked with candidatesfor pub- lic patronaate, and we often lecognize in the loaf- er, the drunkard, and the gambler, an unsuccess- ful competitor,, who bears with a very ill grace the burden of a learned profession. To compute the whole amount of evil that ac- crues to the community from this unpardonable folly would be a difficult task. We may, howev- er. safely conclude that these zealous devotees at the shrine of distinction lose in the items of health, happiness and integrity of character. They lose in health, because long years of close study and bodily confinement are requisite for acquiring a profession as it should be acquired. Indeed, bad health may almost be considered an index of qualification in the learned professions, as their most distinguished votaries are so often found in that condition. Besides the inroads made by ill health upon happiness, the constant fear of failure, their entire dependence upon a fickle populace for patronage, and the bustle and turmoil of a public life, must greatly curtail their peace ot mind. Agriculture, as is generally ad- mitted, is more conducive to virtue than any other profession ; and when an individual aban- dons it and substitutes another in which there is a constant scramble for employment, and flatte- ry and sycophancy not only form the order, of the day, but often carry the day, he must neces- saiily divest himself, in a great measure, of that stern independence and moral courage, which have akways been the disii.octive traits of the farmer’s character. These remarks are not in- tended to throw any obloquy whatever upon the learned professions or their advocates, but sim- ply to point out a few of the physical and moral dangers that beset them, and to expose the folly of deserting agriculture and embarking in those professions wfiien so much is lost by the ex- change. Among other causes that have contributed to lower agriculture in the scale of respectability, is the contempt wfith which manual labor is regard- ed by a certain class of the community who, in their own estimation, form the very cream of gentility and refinement, “ the upper crust” of society. This contempt is carried to such an ex- cess that some of them would almost be asham- ed to notiog homespun honesty if found between the, handles of the plow. These sage exquisites can see no'hing clownish in making a box of pAis, or in filling out a writ or subpoena; but in plowini a furrow' of land or planting a grain of corn, there is something very ungent el — there arises an unpleasant odour “betwixt the wfind and their nobility.” What did not disgrace Cin- cinnatusin the proudest days of the Roman Re- public, would throw afoul blot upon the lair es- cutcheon of their character. It is strange that a belief so conterijptible in itself, and originated by the drones of society, the non-producing loafers of the day, should exert an influence so exten- sive and so prejudicial to the respectability of agriculture as a profession and occupation. But sufficient has been said to show that our agricultural journals and societies have not yet compassed one of the prime objects of their ex- istence, however useful they may have been in other respect?. To introduce new' and superior methods of culture, and to improve the soil and stock of the country, does not embrace the w'hole duty of the planter : it should be a point of professional pride with him to render his pur- suit attractive to a'l classes of the community for ikesake of its respectability — an end Ahat can never be attained while manual labor is consider- ed a drudgery and disgrace, and the pi inters who engage in it, clowns. The youth of the country, too, should reme-m.ber that two of the most distinguished sages of the “ tternai City,” Varno and Cate, in ancient times, wrote upon agricultural subjects; that the inimitable Geor- gies of Virgil are treatises on husbandry ; and that Jussieu, DeCandole and Liebig, in modern times, have been proven to associate their illus- trious names w'ith agriculture when developing the constitution and organization of the mineral and vegetable w'orld. The odium and contempt that are thrown upon the manual laoor of the agricultural and mechanical professions, must have arisen from the fact that this kind of labor is mostly carried on by the poorer classes, (who are obliged to do it,) and by the negro slaves. The exquisites of the day, from a fear of being looked upon as in- dividuals of the Plebeian and Ethiopian orders, have thrown their ridicule not only on these classes, but upon the occupation itself. It is hoped, however, that the worthy yeomanry of our land will no longer tam.ely submit to this discipline, but rise up in the might of their pow- er and revenge the insult offered to the great mother of all the arts, sciences and professions of life. I will now conclude, Mr. Editor, hoping that an abler correspondent will suggest some plan, by which, if manual labor cannotYe raised in re- pute, it may, at least, escape some of the ridicule cast upon it by the would be aristocrats of the country. Very respectfully, yours, Caboliniexsis, Fairfield Dist. , So. Ca., July 28, 1S46. Dried Peaches. Mb. Camak: — I received a few days since the regular numbers of the 4th volume of the SouTHEBK CuLTiv'ATOK. and have been confined to my house through indisposition ever since. I have read portions of the first four numbers, and must say to you, I am much pleased with their contents. I have felt a deep interest in an improved mode of cultivating our lands in this country, and since reading your vamable paper that interest has been greatly increased. I think I have discovered recently in the community a growing an.xiety in the subject. I imetid to act with more energy, and endeavor to arouse my- self and neighbors to a proper investigation of facts, and try to form a Society. If we succeed, sir, we may call upon you and your valuable correspondents for further information, and w'e shall need the Cultivatoh, of course, to impart that information. As the season for drying fruit is now at hand, and not being apprised that the readers of the Cultivator would not be pleased to know how to s-’ve the dried peaches from the worm or bug, which costs them so much trouble to procure, I will let you know what the experience of my family is on that subject, and if you think it useful you can let your readeis know it. So soon as we. get our fruit well dried, we put thein up in sacks, and mix freely through the whole sack the green China leaf; we have used the berry but think it safest to use the leaves. I I I 140 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. We pul the sacks safelv away, and find nq ne- cessity ever after to sun them. Those we have now of the last year’s crop areas pure and bright as when put up. Yours respectiully, Chambers. Oak Boicery, A'a , July 25, 1846. Another Corn-Sheller. Mr. Camak: — I see in the February number of the Albany Cultivator a comfhunicaiion from Mr. C. N. Bement, in which he speaks in very high terms of Mr. T. D. Burrall’e Corn-Sheiler. He thinks it quite an improvement upon all its predecessors. The cut as presented to us in the Cultivator is certainly a neat little affair. I have no doubt it is a good article and well worthy of public patronage, and its inventor has my best wishes for its success. Every farmer should re- joice to see such improvements in anything so well calculated to facilitate any portion of his neces ary business, and certainly there are but few articles more necessary upon every farm of any extent than a good corn-sheller. But Mr. Bement, in h.s amusing account of this machine, says it’s “ a mere pocket edition, and is capable of shelling from ten to twelve bu shels per hour.” This is all very well, and no doubt very true. But he goes still further and says, ” it cannot be beat.” Now, ’tis an old saying, that Doctor’s will differ, and why may not fanners difler also 7 I, too, have a corn-sheller, a plain, substantial concern, got up at home, (though the principle is not entirely new,) made at home, and kept only for home use. All the materials of which it is made cost me perhaps not over a dollar, and the mechanical labor nothing, as it was done by my own rough workmen. It is as plain and simple as anything can well be imagined to answer its purpose, has been in use for several years, and no loss of ti ne in patching or mending; and as to durability, I think I can go a little farther than Mr. Bement has done, and say that mine will not only “last a man’s life lime,” but will do his children after him ; and I can see no good reason why the grand children that follow should not find it a good old s’.ieller, still doing good work. But as this is speculating a good ways in the future, I will come back to facts as I have them before me. I have never made but one trial to ascertain what quantity I coula shell in any given time. A few months since in shelling my seed corn, at the winding up, I had a lot of fine large ears. The floor had been previously cleaned up, and when everythiiTg was made ready, the boys went at it in good earnest, and in just 20 minutes the last cob was stripped naked; and on measuring up, which was done carefully, I was somewhat surprised to find we had I'di bushels, being at the rate of 37k bushels per hour. I am perfect- ly satisfied from this trial that the machine is capable of shelling 40 bushels per hour. But to do this it requites four hands ; one to turn it, and tnree to feed. It shells but one ear at a time, but does it in such a hurry that no two hands can keep it supplied. It shells large, small and short corn equally well, and a large ear as quick as a small one. The cobs fall under the machine in the edge of the coTn, but I find it a very trifling job to separate them in taking up the corn. I svould be glad if I had it in my power to send you a cut of this machine, and still more so if each one of your subscribers (who has any corn this scarce, year,) had one of the machines to shel 1 it with. P. E. Duncan. Greenvills, S. C., April 3, 1816. Florida Coffee. “ Within the infant rind of this small flower, i’oisoii has residence, and medicine power.” Shakspeare. Observing in the Cultivator for December last, some inquiries made respecting the Flori- da C jflee, I take the liberty of answering your subscriber, who turns out to be a neighbor of mine, and with whom 1 havesince had commu- nication on the subject. It has been observed ever since this weed made its appearance in this part of Alabama, that no animal or bird eats its seeds or roots or leaves. This was the result ol the observation of planters, and regret- ted; but it is a mistake. I have for tvvo years past observed that my hogs eat both the roots and seeds: as soon as I peiceived this, 1 like- wise perceived another tact, which 1 connected with ihelormeras cause. I ceased to raise hogs, and what I had already raised began to die. 1 am well aware that throughout the neighbor- hood, and as far as 1 could draw information, that tne death of hogs, and even a cessation in the propagation, to agreatexient, of the species, became the general complaint amongst planters, Whether I am correct or not, in ascribing the calamity amongst the hogs to the right cause, I will not determine ; but this is my opinion. It has become so general a complaint that now most planters are in market buying meat — many who never bought before, and some who have been in the practice of sellir.g pork. The gen- eral scarcity of meat and the failure to raise hogs, or the difficulty, has been commensurate with the growth of the Florida Coffee, and may be the cause. This I leave for furthe.’- observa- tion. The root, in taste, is much like aloes. The seeds are very hard, and have a taint, nau- seous taste— both poisonous, I have no doubt, else birds, fowls and beasts ol all kind would not be so averse toil, and unless upon the point of starvation, for want ol corn and mast, will not iou^ch it. Being so well convinced of its dele- terious effects upon my own hogs, and thinking it might have some influence as a cause of the great scarcity and difficulty in raising hogs, will be my apology tor troubling the public with my crude notions— hoping at the same time that I may be mistaken. Your subscriber, W. Awtry. Burnt Corn, Alabama, July, 1846. Paying our r>ebts=-Grouud Nuts. Mr. Camak: — In looking over the Calendar lor January in the first number of the 4lh vo- lume of the Southern Cultivator, I find the lollowing: — “it you have any valuable facts to add to the general stock' of knowledge, pre- pare and send them for publication, as a partial return for the advantage you have received from others on similar subjects.” Now, my dear old friend, I have been a regular subscriber to the Cultivator from its first number, and 1 may say also that 1 have been an aitemive reader, gaining from it much useful knowledge, and a severe spurring on to exertion in my vocation, which, I believe, in the long run, will add to the weight of my pocket as well as to the heft ol my crops. I regularly sent my dollar, and as regularly received ihe Cultivator,- and appro- priated the knowledge gained from its numer- ous correspondents to my own benefit for the last three years, without once dreaming that I was still in debt. 1 must thank you, friend Camak, for the gen- tle hint just quoted above, reminding me that although 1 have paid my dollar to the publish- er, I am still in debt to my brother farmers for knowledge gained. I will now proceed (and hope all the readers of the Cultivator will do the same,) to pay a portion ol my debt, by tell- ing a coTespondent of yours how to make Ground Peas or Ground Nuts. In the March number of the present volume, page 41, I find the lollowing editorial : “ Ground Nuts. — Though the cultivation of this article is connected with our earliest recol- lection ot field labor, yet we must depend on some of ourcorrespondents to supply the infor- mation wanted.” I think the best time for planting the Ground Pea is about ihe first of April. Lay oft your ground precisely in the old way for planting corn, say lour feel each way, throwing three furrows together one way, and then crossing with one furrow. Shell your peas and then drop two knernels in each cross, and cover shal- low, whether with the hoe or plow. The poor- est sandy land that you have is the best, if you can put a handlull of manure in each hill to enable the plant to spread out its leaves to the sun. After the pea is up, break up your land with the scooter plow, and make it as mellow as possible. The after culture must be done with the sweep, taking care not to run under the vines so as to cut off the young peas that are just forming. Let the hoe hands follow the sweep and carefully pick out the grass and weeds from the hill. In no case must ihe vines be hilled up, or dirt put upon them. 11 rabbits are suffered to nip off the leaves, notwithstand- ing they do not touch the vine, it will stop grow- ing and refuse to bear. That will show how important it is to have the vines lie flat on the ground and turn up their leaves to the hot sun. The ground pea is like the old negro Rabbit, it is good for everything. Horses and mules will eat vines and peas. Milch cows are very fond of them, and i have never found anything that would fatten hogs half so faster make half as delicious bacon. As soon as you begin to ex- pect'frost. commence gathering by running a scooter plow under the vines and loosening the ground, so ihat the peas will draw out without tearing off of the vine. Then let a hand follow with a long grubbing hoe and strike into the root of the vine and lilt it up and shake off the dirt and turn it over to be cured in thesun. Af- ter the vines are cured they may be stacked or housed according to convenience. . A. R. Woodland, Hamilton Co., Fla., July 25, 1846. Planters ! Respect Your Profession. Mr. Camak: — At the expulsion of our pro- genitors from the garden of Eden, and not un- til, by the great increase of their progeny, they had eaten all the fruits of that delighitul abode, and not until Mother Eve, with that laudable curiosity characteristic of her sex, had partaken of the only tree left in the garden untouched and forbidden, did our eyes and understanding be- come open and enlightened. It was then agri- culture especially, as well as all other arts and sciences, dates its origin. It was that act that assimilated us to God, and displayed to man his nakedness and ignorance; without which, he would now be a naked, ignorant and wander- ing savage, seeking a precarious existence by instinct. Is it not surprising that the occupa- tion ordained by our Creator for man, and tak- ing precedence ol all others, should now be in its infancy, whilst most of the oiher arts and sciences have arrived at their culmination I I was led into this train of thought by seeing and observing how particular, even our planters are, in selecting and devoting their brightest and most intellectual sons, to Law, Physic and Di- vinity, whilst the dullest were invariably des- tined for the farm. True, most of those reserv- ed lor the farm are taught to read ; bat what do they read, or study? i will tell you by giving you an account of some young planters whose lather is independent; after which, you may judge how applicable the picture is to your own acquaintance. In their bed room was a blow- ing horn and a fine double-barrelled gun. At his door was outstretched half a dozen or more emaciated hounds. On his walls were hung, with the horn, his ammunition bag and his Sunday clothes. With these last, he would in- vest himselt to show out his handsome person and empty head, at a protracted meeting, a mus- ter, or a Temperance gathering, where he was sure to meet Lawyers without briefs, Doctors without patients, and Farmers too lazy to work, with some Divines more vain than pious, and some boarding-school Misses, not there lor the purpose of catching the young planter, but for some other profession, whose votaries had some brains, some information, or at least a show ol it. Even the common loot pedlers would oust the planter’ssons with the ladies. Now, sir, how has this this state of things happened? It all comes from the prevalent prej Lidice against “book farming.” W^e have religious, political, and even temperance pa- pers, besides scientific journals ; and ot all these we may feel proud — but why may not agiicul- ture be promoted by papers as well as other branches of human knowledge? Let every planter then commence his education, and no matter how old, he will be bcnefiited himself as well as benefit others. He will find that him- self and sons will soon cease to bear the op= THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 141 probrioiis epithet of clodhopper, and find them- selves on an equality with the learned profes- sions, and compete successtullv with them for the various offices in the gilt of the people, and fill them as honorably and ably. I will venture the assertion that no profes- sion is calculated so well to e.iipand the mind and improve the morals as agriculture — none so well calculated to impress upon our minds the wisdom and goodness of our Creator. There is more philosophy in the growth and maturity of a single ear of corn, than in all the artificial tinsel of a court, or even in the prodi- gious results of steam and magnetism. Look at the graceful figure of the stalk — its tinsella- ted crown and silken zone, and then the luscious ear, teeming with its lactiferous and rich juices. Tnen look at the multifarious purposes it can be made to subserve. Let me enumerate a few, that the young planter may open his eyes to the importance of his calling. We first contem- plate its beauty, even in its sere and autumn leaf, then its rich and nutritious grains It even begins, before maturity, to afford food. When ripe, it feeds man and beast, and affords the to- per a delicious alcohol. Afier this view, let him calculate the number and extent of its rcots., and he will be fio go no further,) lost in wonder at the great provision nature has furnished itfor its support, and will suggest many useful hints lor its proper culture. It you think these lew desultory observations will aid in the smallest degree in promoting the cause of Agriculture, andstimulating the plant- er to greater efforts to improve his mind, as well as his barren soil, give it a place in the Cultivator, and oblige an A.matkur Planter. Burnt Corn, Ala., June^O, 18d6. Rowa’s Coru-Crusher. Mr. Camak — By request of Mr. Hurt, of Ala., made through the Southern Cultivator of last month, I undertake to give him some of the particulars respecting my corn and cob crusher. Mr. Rowe of Cincinnati, Ohio, is the inventor. I purchased mine of Dr. J. Shelby, of Na'^hville, Tenn., one. of Mr. Rowe’s agents. It cost me, in that city, S250; trciaht, by the way of N. Orleans and Savannah to Macon, about $33. Mr. Rowe says that one of these crushers will last a hundred years. Perhaps it will. 1 see nothing in the wear of the one I have to dis- pute it, notwithstanding one can certainly be af- forded tor less money. The weight ot one is near 2500 lbs. nearly all cast iron. The one I have in use will grind about forty bushels per day. By adding weight sufficient it can be made to grind much more. The grinding or crushing is done by two cast wheels running round in a cast circular trough or hopper. In this trough the wheels are set' opposite each other, six leet apart. 'There is no gearing re- quired to put one of these crushers in operation. Two mules or horses is team sufficient to work one. It requires a house Si leet square and 12 feet pitch to put one in for successful operation. Alter one ot these crushers is properly put up for grinding, it cannot be put out of order by fair means. I need not undertake to describe the work that has to bi done by a mechanic, to put one of them in operation, as Mr. Rowe sends printed instruc- tions to enable a mechanic to put them up. Af- ter adling a fair price lor a house to work uae of these crushers in, to thatof the crusher, withall other expenses, making at least $400, most men will be their best judge whether it would be good economv to have one ornot. By referring to ray communication of last November or De- cember, there may be seen some account of the different articles which I had ground in mine, as well as the quantity of corn I believed I should save by its nse in one year, f am, dear sir, yours resoectfully, &c., John Farrar. SlanfordviUe, Ga., Av.sasl 14, 1840. Though a man without money is poor, a man with nothing but money is still poorer. Mastodon Cotton.— Circular. Dear Sir: — The great attention awakened by the introduction of the Mastodon Cotton into the United States, together with my earnest desire that it may succeed in promoting the great interests of the South, uiay be a sufficient ex- cuse for this communication. The seed were procured (as I suppose) near the northern exiremity of the Gull of Califor- nia, where there are extensive uninhabited re- gions, and where co’ton of various kinds is sometimes found growing wild. Its transfer to Mississippi therefore (the same latitude.) keeps it still in its native climate. That you may not be imposed upon in the purchase of seed, it is proper for you to know, that, with but two stalks growing in 1842, its I cultivation in 1844 had not extended bevond t my plantation, except in a single instance in my I neighborhood. In 1345 it was hrsl raised by I others. But its valuable properties not then be- j ing generally kbown, it became much mixed ; andi crossed , in many instances, with other cot- I ton ; aDtl hence the vast quantities of mixed seed I throughout the country. And besides this, ex- tensive frauds have been committed by the sale of quite different kinds ot seed as “ Mastodon.” A la.rge commiss'on hoiise in Nevj Orleans has been exlensivehj engnged in this business, and ma- ny parts of the country have become flooded with spurious seed. Should you wish to cultivate the Mastodon, you would do well to get seed that geiinine, and it is nearly equally important, that fi be nei- ther mixed or crossed with o her cotton. I would also suggest the greatest care in keeping your seed pure. To prevent it f’-om degenerating, plant .small quantities of picked seed occasional- ly, to use for seed. I have from the first taken the greatest passible care of mi! seed, amd have ravprtse it crop grounno entirety from picked seed. I shall put my seed up carefully for sale, with mv name on each sack. They may be had in New Orleans of Buckner & Stanton, and Hooper & rVlerrye; in Mobile, ol Mauldin & I'errel, and shall also have agencies in the principal places in Alaba- ma, Georgia and South Carolina. To S'cure my seed it shou'd be specially inquired fur. The Mastodon should be cultivated preciseh’^ as other cotton, except that it should have a lit- tle more distance. The seed are very large and white. To obtain a high price for the cotton, it should be handled and ginned well. By taking the “Southern Cultivator,” Augusta, Geo., SI per annum, you may learn more upon this important subject. Almost any of the Southern newspapers will be of value to you' in this re.«pect. Allow me also to say, tnat my brother, Maj. M E. Abbey, of Columbus, Miss,, and Mr. D. F. Miller, of La., have, I 1 believe, t.'.ken great pains in preserving the pu- rity ot their Mastodon seed. By noticing these remarks and circulating them among your friends, you will promote the interests of cotton growing, and oblige yours respeetliilly, R. Abbey- ■Boston Plantation, near Yazoo City, Mi., Sept. 1, 18-16. To Cure a Bqr.v.— A lady, a preacher ol the Society ol Friend.?, in New Y'.'ik, was so successful in curing burns, that mapy of the lower class supposed her possessed of the pow- er ot w’orking miracles. The following is the recipe lor the medicine : —Take one ounce bees- wax, with lour ounces bu.t’gundy pilch, simmer- ed in an earthen vessel together, with as much sweet oil as will soften them into the consisten- cy of salve-when cool— stir the liquid after ta- ken from the fire till quite cool. lieep it from the air in a tight box or jar. When used, spread it thinly on a cloth and apply it to the part in- jured. Open the burn with a needle and let out the water till it heals. — Exchange Paper. IMnltiply the figure 9 by any other single figure, and the two figures composing the pro- duct added together, will make 9. Thus 9 mul- tiplied by 4, make 36, which two figures added together, makes 9. fHontljlB Qlalcnbar. Altered from the American Agriculturist s Almanac for 1314, and arranged to suit the Southern States. CALENOAa F01£ SEP i’EMBE I-g. [The folfoTving brief hints in the farmer, planter and gardener, will be found to apply not only to the naoiitli under which they are arranged, but, owing lo diversity of seasons, climate and soils, they may frequently an- swer for other monihs This precaution ihe consider- ate agriculturist will not fail to notice and apply in all cases where his judgment and experience may dictate.] From the 1st to Ihe 20th of this month is the proper time tor sowing wheat in*the Northern States, ft put in before, excessive heat and drought prevents early and rapid germination, which is desirable, and exposes it when up to the ravages of me Hessian fiy. It sown later, the plant seldom acquires sufficient depth and strength of root t-o stand the frost heaving of winter, and it is more liable to mil- .dew or rust in the following summer. As this is the great agricultural staple in many of the States, it is of vast consequence in the aggre- gate, that every precaution should be taken to insure good crops. It clay lands have been pared and burnt, or under-drained, or well charged with enriching vegetable manures, by which they have become lighter and more per- vious to air and water, it is sufficiently prepar- ed bj' two good plowings a little time previous to sowing; if such condition is lacking, no pro- per preparation can be made on such soil for wheat, without a good summer fallow, in which the soil is thrown up, where not saturated with rain so as to bake, and exposed to the ameliora- ting influences of air, sun and dews. When this has been thoroughly done, such soils pro- duce a large growth ot the best v heat, and in Europe they are universally considered the very choicest wheat lands. When the ground is in good condition to receive the seed, it may be sown and harrowed in with a heavy drag, bury- ing the seed about four inches. The experi- ment has been tried for a series or years in Scotland of plowing it in to a depth of six inch- es; but we lack evidences ot its utility in this country. The seed should be perfedly cteom, tree from light chaffy grains. To insureihis, either raise it yourself, such as you know to be good, or pay a little extra a; d get it from an approved source, by which you will secure ano- ther advantage more than equivalent to the ad- ditional cost, the benefits of a change cf soil which is an advantage in ailseeds The next operation is preparing the seed. This is usual- ly done by washing it in a strong brine, in which the light and imperfect grains and the smut will float, and may be poured off. If very smutty, it should be w’ashed three times tho- roughly. After the brine has been mostlv drain- ed out, quick lime must be silie 1 upon it, and stirred so that every grain shall have a good coating. This process a?sis’s the future crops in tws ways, by effectually destroying smut, and by giving an early and heali-hy growth to the plant. This is the system adopted bv the best wheat-growers in the central part of New York, the great granary of the North Young’s 'Annals gives the re.?uit of several experiments in sowing wheat, which proved that while one bed of unprepared wheat gave 377 heads of smutty wheat, those soaked in ley twTnty-four hours, and lime water the same lime, each, gav'e not one head of smut. Tnis month seed corn should be selected. It can only be well done in the field. It ought 'u be taken from those stalks which have the greatest number of large, round, well filled ears. In this way the Baden and the Dutton corn have attained all their well earned celebrity. Never top your corn. It may dry up alter lopping, hut there is an end to nourishment, as all the s.ap that goes to make the grain, first ascends into the leaf above the ear, where it is elaborated and per- fected, and then descends to the ear lor the per- lection of the kernel. Fatting anim i!.? should now be pushed with ail imaginable speed. .Much more flesh can be pul upon them from thelo'.hof August till the last of November, 142 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. than in the same lime during the cold weather, and on a much less quantity of feed. Indeed, 60 important IS the difference, that it would be judicious forerery man to reserve grain enough from his last year’s stock, to feed his swine, cattle and sheep till his new crops are- in readi- ness. If you haveihe right kind of swine, Berkshire, China, or any of the best improved breeds, they may be got in excellent condition on a clover pastu-re, the droppings from the or- chard, and the slops from the dairy, so as to be easily fitted for the butcher. 1 he ^exportation of pork to Europe, and its large consumption lor lard eil, recently commenced in this coumtry, will malre it a most important object lor the farmer hereafter, to select and propagate only the best breeds. Finish cutting and securing your crops of hemp and tobacco, it not previ- ously done. Kitchen Garden. — Select a dry, warm, pro- tected place, and plant the lettuces sown last month for spring use. If the weather prove dry, let them be well watered. Early in this month the Spanish kinds of radish can be sown, and on the approach ol Irosl taken up and pre- served lor winter use in the same way as tur- neps or beets. Hoe and thin out the crop of turneps during this month. About 'he middle of the month, sow cabbage seed to remain in the seed bed all winter, and be ready for trans- planting in the spring. Sow cauliflower and broccoli also to furnish plants lor the spring. Gather each kind of seed as it ripens,-aad dry it well before potting it up. Fruit Garden and Orchard. —Budding and inoculating neaches can be continued, and also the other Iruils as long as the bark will peel. Trees and shrubs may be propagated' by cut- tings and layers. When it is necessary, trim pines, firs, walnut trees and maples, as the sap will not so m ueh exude as in the spring. Plant beds of strawberries. Flower Garden and Pleasure Grounds. — The directions for last month -will also apply to tl is. Prepare beds for planting tulips, hya- cinths, anemones, ranunculuses, and other flower roots and shrubs that are to be planted next month. Plantation — In this month,aswell as the two succ'^eding, much time will be occupied in pick- ing cotton, ginning, pressing and hauling. Pick the cotton clean; admit no crash; look lor the quality rather than the quantity. Do not atteuipt to gin too much in a day; let the mules take a steady, slow gate, for rapid mo- tion will cut and break the fibre. In pressing, put in about 450 pounds in a bale; run the screw well home, and cover every particle of cotton ; sew the sides and end^s of the covering neaily, while in the press, if possible; put on not less than seven ropes — eigbf is more com- mon. In this month or the next sow Egyptian oats, rye and wheat. Sow 2 to 3 bushels of oats, and to 2 bushels of wheat or rye, to the acre. So\>’ grass seeds both in this month and Octo- ber. Do not pick cotton when wet, for, besides the trouble ol drying, the dirt and leaf -become at- tached and stain it; and it Irequently happens that quantities ol cotton are kept wet by cloudy, rainy weather in September, in whkh the seeds sprout and injure materially the product. A few of those wet days can be employed in hous- ing corn, gathering peas, preparing pastures, fencing and other repairs. In Florida and the southern part of t-he Union, three cuttings of tobacco can be taken from the original plant; the last cutting, however, will be of rather a weak quality. As soon as one crop is cut another immediately springs up. lu selecting the sprouls, only one to each stalk should be allowed to grow, and this from those the most deeply rooted — all othersprouts should be destroyed. If, however, a plant is allowed once to be checked in its growth, it can never recover. In promoting the drying of the leaf, fire should never be resorted to, because it would impart a flavor injurious to the tobacco itself. In order to procure vigorous tobacco plant s, the seed ought to be procured from the original stalk, and not|f'om the second or third growth. It is best to allow a few plants to go to seed for the express purpose. As we may expect showers in this month, sow spinach, lettuce, water and garden cresses, chervtlle, endive, parsley, late cauliflowers, cabbages, radishes and turneps. Inoculate with the bud, or set out monthly roses. Large carrots may be set out for seed this month if not previously done. Save pumpkins for win- ter use. iUeetinga. Meeting of tlie A gricuitural Society of Jef- ferson County. The annual meeting of the Agricultural So- eJety of Jefferson county, was held in Louis- ville on Wednesday the I2ih inst. President P. B, Connelly in the Chair. The President, on calling the Society to order, in a few very pertinent remarks, appropriate to the occasion, congratulated the Society upon the very flatter- ing p,>-ospects which were already following the comparatively small exertions made for the advancement of agricultural improvement among us; and from the lively intere.st mani- fested on the present occasion, confidently an- ticipated ultimate success to crown the labors of the Society — and in conclusion, announced to the body, that in accordance with tbeirConsti- tution, on the return of their anniversary, the important duty devolved upon the Society of electing their officers lor the following year. It was moved by Dr. P. S. Lemlie, and agreed to, that the Society proceed forthwith, to the election of its officers lor the following year. Whereupon, the following nametl gentlemen were chosen : P. B. Connelly, President. Henry B. Todd, 1st Vice-President. Eli McCroan, 2d do, Bennett B. Smith, 3d do. Sherrod Arring-ton, 4th. do. Bekiah S. Carswell, 5th, do. H AMtLTON Raiford, Copr’g Secretary. A. R. Wright, Recording Secretary. John W. Bothwell, Treasurer. The following gentlemen were also chosen, in accordance with a provision ot the constitu- tion, to constitute with the above named officers, the Executive Committee : John W. Alexander, T. W. Batley, Henry Arrington, Robert Boyd, and Henry Batley. Alter which, the Corresponding Secretary presented to the Society apaclragpol filiy-seven varieties of seeds, from the Agricultural De- partment of the U. S. Patent Office, for distri- bution among the members, together with a copy of the Report of the Commissioner on Patents-, furnished to the Society through the courtesy off he Hon. J. McPherson Berrien. After sometime spent in deliberation, discus- sion, and interchange of views among the mem- bers, the following resolulims were unani- mously adopted : I Resolved, That ti e annual fair of this Socie- ty be held on Wednesday, the flth ot Novem- ber next, and that the following gentlemen be a Committee of Arrangements (or the occasion: P. B. Connelly, J. W. Bothwell, T. W. Batley, B. S. Carsiyell, A, J. Tarver, Eli McCroan, J. W. Alexander, Henry Bailey, Henry Arring. ton, B. B. Smith, A. R. Wright, Arthur W. Walker, P. S. Lemlie. Resolved, That any member of the Society who may desire to submit any agricultural pro- duce, for premium, may have the same ex- amined and measured by one or more members of the Executive Committee, whose report will be sufficient authority with the Society. Resolved, that the thanks ot this Society be tendered to Gen. James H. Hammond, and the Hon. J. McPherson Berrien, for their liberality and courteous attention to this Society, and that the Corresponding Secretary be instructed to present the same to those gentlemen. Resolved, That the members of the Society who may take a portion of the seeds lurnished by Judge Berrien from the Patent Office, be re- quesied to report the result of their experiment with the seed-;, and to furnish a portion of the product for the use of the Society. Resolved, That the Treasurer be directed 1o purchase for the use of the Society, a complete sett ot the Southern Cultivator, and sub- scribe for the ensuing volume. Resolved, That the Corresponding and Re- cording Secretaries be exempted from the an- nual expenses of the Society. Resolved, That a cjpy of these proceedings be furnished for publication in the Southern Cul- tivator, with a request to the editor to publish [herein. On motion, the Society then adjourned till the regular meeting in November. P. B. Connelly, President, A. R. Wright, Recording Secretary. Albany (Baker Co,^) Agricultural Society. The Albany Agricultural Society met Au- gust llth, pursuant to adjournment. On mo- tion of Hon. Lott Warren, it was Resolved, That a committee be appointed by the Chairto nominate gentlemen as officers of ihis Society, term of office agreeably to the pro- vision of the Constii uiion, to continue until the anniversary meeting in November next Hon. Lott Warren, Col. John Tompkins and Capt. H. Griffin, were appointed that com- mittee, and after a tew’ moments recommended as President, Col. .Tohn Mercer; Vice-Presi- dent, H. Griffin; Recording Secretary, S. N. Boughton; Corresponding Secretary, T. D, Mathews; Treasurer, John F. Spicer; all ot whom were alterwards duly elected by ballot. The Society was then fully organized by the installation of its officers, and Col. John Mer- cer, the orator of the day, in a short but appro- priate address advanced many sound and prac- tical thoughts with reference to the subject of scientific agriculture. The committee appointed to arrange the bu- siness of the meeting recommended the appoint- ment of the following committees i 1st. Committee lor procuring an orator for the next meeting. 2d. A Committee in each different neighbor- hood for the purpose of visiting plantations and reporting to the next meeting of this Society, (which will be the annual meeting,) on the fol- lowing subject?, viz: 1st. The character and quality of the soil.' 2d. How much small grain sowed, when sowed, if manured, how and v’hen, and the product per acre. 3d. How much land planted in corn, how much in cotton, how much old and new land, how much manure, how and when wasj.he manure applied, how planted, in hill or drill, and the space between the stalks, how often worked and how worked, and the averaga product per acre. Theatiention paidtolhe recu- perative resources of the plantation by raising negroes, and different kinds of live stock, re- pairingbuildings, fences, &c., raising fruit trees, potatoes, sugar-cane, tobacco, &c., and any kind of crop the owner of the plantation may wish examined, and report on which the corn* mittee may think worthy of their attention. 31. A Committee to prepare a plan for the offering and awarding of premiums. In accordance with the foregoing recommend- ations the following committees were appointed, viz: Committee to procure an orator for the next meeting — Lott Warren, H. Griffin andJ, 'Fompkins. Committee to examine the planta- tions on the south side of Fowltown creek — L. B. Mercer, Thos. H. Moughon and R. Q. Dick- inson. On the west side of said creek — Jos. Bond, B, H. Eiey and E. Janes. In the vicini- ty of Albany— R. Q,. Dickinson, H. Griffin and Lott Warren. In the section around Byron— J. Tompkins, Robt. Lunday and C. T. J. Sin- gleton. The Committee on Premiums — N. Tift, D. A. Vason and Jas. Bond. The following resolution was offered by R. Q,. Dickinson, and adopted: Resolved, That we earnestly and cordially THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 143 recommend ihe members of this Society to lake tL^dread the Souihern Cultivator, edited by James Gamak, and published by J. W. &W. S, Jones, at Augusta, Geo.,— a work containing much useful information on the subject of agri- culture. On motion of John Tompkins, the meeting adjourned until the second Thursday in No- vember next. John Mercer, President. S, N. Boughton, Sec’y. Barbour Co. (Ala.) Agricultural Meeting. The regular meeting of the Barbour County Agricultural Society was held at Glennville on Saturday, the 11th July. The President, John M. Raiford, in the Chair. The proceedings of the previous meeting were first read in order. Reports of Committees appointed to es:amine crops was called fo-r. The following was sub- mitted, and on motion of John A. Calhoun, Esq., was adopted as appropriate, though some- what deferred: TO THE BARBOUR COUNTY AGRICUH'URAL SOCIETY. The undersigned Committee appointed by the President to examine the condition of the crops in the lower section of North Cowikee, having discharged the duties assigned them, with much ; interest and all the attention,in their power, beg leave to report the result of their investigation — merely premising,' that without definite instruc- tions as to the extent of the duties your com- mittee had in view, in making their observa- tions, the following particulars, (without irans- -cending as they conceive their proper sphere of . business,) not on the present appearance of the crops, but the mode of planting and cultivating it— and what preparations of the different pro- ducts composing the crops were planted. Before stating the information obtained on these subjects, your Committee would remark, generally, that the crops, within the limits as- signed them, are entirely on the hammocks of North Cowikee and the land imraed-iately adja- cent, extending from the Clayton road, near Glennville, to the junction of north and middle Cowikee. The lands are of a deep rich soil, level, and of alluvial appearance, cap'able of producing as they usually do, as heavy crops of ■corn and cotton perhaps as any land within the '< extent of country occupied by your society, yet owing to the tpo frequentrainsduring the spring and early summer, the present crop isfoundnot Jo be as early or as promising as usual at this time of theyear. Your committee would not, however, be understood as intimating that the -crops are sorry ; considei ing the season and the local situation of the land, the crops may be re- presented as good. We find the object had been on the plantations examined by us, to plant both: corn and cotton early, and, to some extent, in the corn crop, it had been successful, but in most, if not in every instance, where cotton has been planted earlier than the first week of April, a failure was the result. Owing to the difficul- ties of the season alluded to and from having to be planted again, a stand was not obtained as early as if it had not been attempted so soon. We estimated that the bulk of the corn ?rop ■was planted about the 1st March— the distance usually given, we find is, wh;n planted in hills, 4 leet each way, and when in drill, 5 feet by 2i. The cottun crop was planted from 1st to lOih April, in drills, generally 4i to 5 feet apart, an i J8 to 24 inches in the drill. In one crop we ob" served the cotton had been left twice as thick as intended for an ultimate stand, as a precaution against the ravages of the cut-worm. Your committee would respectfully suggest that a disposition to crowd crops is too prevalent. We find that, on an average, corn and cotton have been planted nearly in equal quantities on the plantations submitted to our inspeciion, and although we were glad tc discover that, on some places, the other items of an important charac- ter in a well proportioned crop had not been dis- legarded, yet we think too strong a disp..sition is evinced, as we conceive, to increase ti>e cotton crop, to the neglect of wheat and other varieties of small grain, as well as lull potatoe and pea- crops. Yet on some plantations we found a de- gree of attention highly commendable bestow- ed on those articles, and on every one a good prospect of an abundance and to spare of the substantial necessaries for man and brute. Your Committee are in justice bound to offer the opinion that the general views displayed in the arrangement and cultivation of the present crop are very judicious. It appears to have been the general policy, adopted after preparing the land well tor plant- ing, to obviate difficulties of the season, by cul- tivating upon the draining system — by bedding to crop, and leaving a w'ater furrow to carry off the water io the ditches and outlets previously arranged; but lor this precaution, the crop must have been, as we concei ve, more liable to injury. We find it to have been the plan generally adopted, to w’ork the coin crop first, and early, and lighter as the season advanced. We re- commend this plan to the confidei ce of the So- ciety In future, vrhere it has not been adopted. It is graiilying to your Committee to be able to state, that the crops, within their limits, are comparatively clean of grass. We found the work bestow'ed on the cot- ton crop, since the late heavy Tains, to have been highly beaeficial. and that it is now in a very improving condition. By way of summing up the general views already expressed, we concur in the opinion that a fair corn crop has been realized, and that with favorable rains and a late fall, an average, if not a full cotton crop may be anticipated. Your Committee commend to the Society the general system ot inanagemeni found existing within the scope of their observations. I’liey found the overseers at their posts en- gaged in the prompt and faithful discharge of their responsible duties. The negroes engageikon the planlationsseem- ed to be well cared lor and well nrovided, not only with the implements of their avocation, but with many means of comfort and happiness. Your committee regret to find that ail the at- tention isndtpaid to the improvement ot plan- tation fixtures and conveniences that is desira- ble, yet as far as they a’^e able to ascertain, this 'has not resulted from a want of taste or wish to engage in it, but rather of that necessity attend- ing planting operations in a country not longer reclaimed from the wilderness than this has been. Your Committee, in conclusion, beg leave to urge upon the attention ot the Society, the pro- priety of offeiing some inducements to members to engage in such a system of improvement as time and convenience will allow, that will not only be profitable, but that they may display not only the industry but the taste and refined sense of the AgriciiUural prefcssion. All ot which is respectlully su'bmitted. M. A. Browder, I Malachi Ivy, > Committee. M. M. Gi.enn, 3 After the adoption of the above report. Dr. E. E Dubose and A. Frazier, Esq , stated, in behalfof their respective Committees, without reporting formallv, that the conditi-on of the crops within their limits was-such as they found to be common on similar land. Tlie corn crop miRht be considered good. The cotton crop promising, though later by ten or fifteen days than the crop of last year, and that they disco- ver a disposition, aitevided with encouraging re- sults, to increase the small grain crops in many places. The President called on the members present to state their opinions relative to the d-ifference of the present year, compared with last. Messrs. Calhoun, Jackson, Richardson, and others, con- curred in the opinion that the present cotton crop, owing to the seasons, was fifteen days la- ter than common. An interesting interchange of ideas incident- ally came up, on the use ol cotton seed for ma- nuring, in which Mr. M. A. Browder suggested that they should be applied in moderate quanti- ty (according to the quality of the land,) on lop of the ground just before plowing the corn the first time. J. A. Calhoun concurred with Mr. Browder in opinion, and from his observation and prac- tice in Carolina, where the manuring was in some mode necessarjr, had been satisfied, the suggestion was a gooti one. Dr. Richardson urged no objection to the mode, but was satisfied that on fair land in this country, ihe quality n-eed not be as great as usi:= ally imagined. He stated be was accustomed to using but little in each hill of corn, and by planiing but one stalk with suitable distance, the end was better secured iban by wasting the quantity w’iihout suitable precaution as to dis- tance. Dr. R. sustained his experience on the subject with a scientific theory. The President propounded several questions to diflerent members, alternately, in the discus- |jon of which much useful information was elicited. To the first, which was, “ what quantity of corn and cotton is planted per hand, and what is the average product per acre I” — M. A. Browder answered that he had not mea- sured his plantation so as to make an accurate estimate, but aims to plant from 15 to 20 acres per hand, and of that, one-thiid more of corn than cotton. He calculates on about 20hushels of corn per acre, on second quality of land, (considering the best creek land of that class,) and 1,400 to 1,500 f'os. of cotton per acre, about the average of his crop. He thinks part of his last crop would have yielded 2,000 lbs. could it have been well saved. Othergenilemen agreed on all important points with Mr. Browder in his estimates. The second question was, “ what is the ad- vantage of oxen for farm purposes, in compari- son with horses and mules; and what is the best mode of breaking and managing them'?” Maj. Dennard thinks that ii oxen were fairly tried they would be -preferable to horses or mules for hauling off crops short distances— he had seen them used for such purposes to great ad- vantage in the West. Mr. Browder vAas of opinion that o.xen are very valuable on every farm for saving food of a costly kind; convenience in hauling about plantalionsi they may be made serviceable in the plow in turning over heavy lands, and by kind and careful treaiment, and working them at first in the same team with old yokes, they may be easily and well broke— then by working them together with mules they may be made to walk fast. Mr. Guice had adopted the plan proposed by Mr. Browder, and found it ver}' proper — he would recommend it. Mr. Calhoun sai , he had not tried them, but was not disposed to considea them as valuable as they were thought to be, in consequence of lacking speed and ability to travel a distance, though he was disposed to give them a trial — he, how-ever, felt saiisfied that the mode ot gearing them, like a horse, would be preferable to the yoke in use commonly, which he considered cruel. In answer to the third q iesiion, which was, “ what are the best means of raising and fatten- ing hogs V' — 'Dr. Dubose answered that h-ogs should be at- tended to particularly, when young; not be suf- fered to pine or want; that they should be push- ed in growth by feeding on ground food, cook- ed or otherwise for variety, instead of corn con- stantly. Advocated the importance and practi- cability of every farmer raising his own supply even if it cost more than if bought from the drovers. A. E. Jackson agreed with Dr. DuBo.se as fo the importance of raising hogs, but as to the means of doing so, he considered the corn-crib the main dependence. Maj. D. nnard suggested that, in addition »ct the helps proposed by the other gentlemen, that woods pastures would be found very advanta- geous; but really doubted whether the profit of raising hogs would pay the cost. Dr. Richardson advocated the nece.ssity of 144 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. raising as lar as possible, our own supplies, though it be aitended with cost and attention. He prelers the grazier breed, because they weigh ■well at an early age, and do well where they can graze. He suggested the importance of having different suitable enclosures, so that they may be separated to advantage when ne- cessaiy; and a Ivised that on physiological prin- ciples they should be led while young on a great variety of food, and that a great saving might be made the result of boiling provisions lor them daring the whole progress of their growth. He uses for this purpose a great ouan tity of squashes, peas, artichokes, &c. M. Calhoun stated that he had failed in this country in raising hogs, which he attribu- ted mainly to a want of proper enclosures, without which they are apt to stray and get wild. He contended that it is cheaper to raise by feeding on a variety of such articles had been susgested, than to buy pork or bacon, and decidedly better policy; and staled, ho was experimenting with ground peas and potatoes planted in his corn crop for the benefit o! his hogs He preferred the common breed. To the 1 lurth question, which is as follows: “What quantity of food should be given to field hands, when they have free access to vege- tables and milk ?” — Dr. Richa -dson was of opinion that 3 lbs of ba- con per week was sufficient, prrhaps too much. He was disposed to think that in this climate two pounds would be more healthy if the defi- cit were supplied with a well prepared vegeta- ble diet. He recommended shallots, cabbages, turnips, peas, squashes, tomatoes, okra, &c., to be substituted in part, instead of a full allowanc'e of animal food, not only as a saving, but -healthy precaution for laborers,''in this climate particularly, where nature pointed out the pro- priety of such a substinnion in her dispensation of the abundance of those things. Mr. Browderstated, it has been his plan, as a matter of policy, s-n.rl conduci ve to the health of his slaves, to have particular attention given to cooking the veget.ables with their meal, and was satisfied that one-half might be saved and their health better secured, Milk, he considered highly advantageous, and he was careful to have a good supply of common peas saved for their use through the winter. Th“>-e were s 'me other important questions (’i.'-i usse.l. but from the length of the report, are reluctantly omitted. Dr, Richardson suggested that every member of the Society should become a subscriber for one of the Eufaula papers, so that reference could be had to all the proceedings without mis- take or disappointment, and particular! v as very great aecommodaii-ons had been rendered the Society by those papers, in nublishing (or the Society, and the interest they had taken in pro- moting its interest, the Society should feel bound to assist in e-ytending their circulation The unanimous sanction of the Society was given to the suggestion. The names of Messrs. A. Bowdrie, Esau Brooks, and Brittain Rogers, were offered and regularly c-nTere’d members of the S 'eiety. On motion of John A. Calhoun, Esq , Benj. Gardner was elected Assistant Recording Se- cretary. Next meeting anrounced by the President to be held in Eufaula, on the '2d Saturday in Au- gust next. On motion, the Society adjourned. M. M. Glenn, Secretary. Making Vi.negar. —Vinegar, according to a writer in the Genesee Farmer, is cheaply made. VVe republish his recipe : Tij/eighl gallons ot clear rain water, add three q’narts of molasses, put into a good cask, shake well a few times, then add two or three spoonfulls of good yeast ;akes. In summer, place the cask in the sun ; in winter, near the chimney, where it may be warm. In ten or fifttea days, add to the liquor a sheet of brown paper, torn in strips-, dipped in molasses, and good vinegar will be proiluced. The paper will, in this way, form what is called the “ mother,” or “ life of vinegar.” This look's reasonable, and, what is of more irnnortance, it is supported by the inductions of chemical science throughout. To make Johnny Cake. — Take two large cups ol meal, one cup of flour, and one cup of sour milk, one egg, one table-spoondul of mo- lasses, and a tea-spoonful of saleratus, dissoly- ed ; mix thoroughly, and add sufficient sweet milk to cause the batter to spread in the pans; then bake in the usual way. To Ascertain the Speed or Velocity of Machinery. — In all ordinary machinery, the motion ol some part thereol is sufficiently mo- derate to admit of the counting ot the revolu- tions or vibrations thereof. Having compared the motion with time, and ascertained the num- ber ol revolutions per minute, ofa driving wheel or drum, multiply that number by the quotient obtained by dividing the diameter ol this wheel by the pulley or pinion which receives a mo- tion directly [herefrom. But it these two di- ameters are such that one cannot be divided by the other without a remainder, then reduce each to inches an 1 decimals, and apply the rule of proportion, multiply the diameter of the first wheel by the number of its revolutions per minute and. divide the product by the diameter of the small wheel, pulley, or pinion, and the quotient will show the velocity thereof, in revo- lutions per minute. If another drum or gear wheel is mounted on the shaft of this second ro- tary, arid motion is communicated therefrom to a tnin) axle pulley, the same process may be repeated to ascertain the velocity of the third shaft. In this way the velocity of the mandrills of the most violent motion may be accurately as- certained. Temperance Legislation. — The Legisla- ture of Maine have enacied a law forbidding the sale of intoxicating liquors at wholesale or retail, except for medicinal and mechanical purposes. Penalty for the first offence from to S20, second offence 5^5, to S20, with a bond ofSuR to abate the nuisance for six months, and forfeiting all money received for liquors thus sold. Back Volumes of the Southern Cultivator. The Wgrk complete from its commencement. td” Volumes I., 11, and 111. of the “Southern Cultiv.aTor,” can be supplied to all who may desire the work from its commencement, at the subscription price— One Dollar each vol.ime. The back numbers of the present volume are sent to all new Subscribers. COMTE UTS OF THIS MUMBER. original papers. ■Asparagus, how to r-ai-e Giant page 137 Agricultural Society .lefferson Co. Meeting of “ I'tg Col. McDonald’s Proposi ton “ 136 Corn Crtisher, Rn'wt’s “ 141 Corn Shelter, another “ 140 F.irrning. IN arih Carolina..... “ 137 Farini ng, Yan k#e “ 138 Florida Cnfrce...,. “ 140 Green Bar ley a Substitute for Indian Corn. . “ 138 Hay, curing t....... “ 116 Mastodon Colton — Circular “ 141 McDonald, de.aih of Col A. — Obituary “ 133 Pianter.s, Respect your Profession “ 140 Paying onr Debts — Ground Nuts “ 140 Peaches, dried “ 130 Respect for Labor *■ 139 Sumach “ 137 The Press— Ourselves. “ 136 SELECTIONS, EXTR.ACTS, &C. Agricultural Society of Albany. Baker Co. . . .page 14'2 Agricultural Society Baroour Co “ 143 Agricultural Improvement, future “ 133 Admixture of Soils, on the “ 134 Bois— I he Nat ir rat 1 1 istnr y of the Hoi se Bee . . . “ 129 First Baleol New Cotton “ !3,a Lime, a chapter on “ 131 Monthly Calendar for September. “ 141 Rye..., “ 130 Southern Crops and Culture ’ ‘134 Southern Ladies *■ I ’5 CHOICE FaCT'r T REES. ®THE SUBSCRIBER hoson hand fe. a rare collection of FKUIT TREES, graft-^"^ ed by himself from the best varieties, _ which have been tested in this climate, among which are some twenty kinds of Tennes-ee Apples^ ( which are found to do much belter in this climate than North- ern trees.) Also, Pears, Pi n ms, (specimens of which can he shown grown ny raa this season weighing 4 ounces,) Cherries, Apricots, Neclarines, Figs. Grapes, Quince, Gooseberries. &c. Also some beauliful doa. ble flowering fruit trees as the App'e. Peach. Almond Quince, &c. Also, Hovey's celebrated Seedling Strata , berry, which have have proved in this climate be fine bearers, of enormous size and of exquisite Pine Apple flavor, (baskets ot this delicious fruit have been in the Columbus mat kel the past summer with berries measuring from 4 to 5 inches round.) Also, Ornament- al tohrubs, Plants, &c. Superb Dutch Flowering Bulbs, Hyacinths, rulips, Amarylas Also an extensive as- sortraeiit of Garden and Field Seeds, all nfwhich can be found at my seed store in Columbus, Geo. Orders for trees, planit, bulbs or seeds will be carefully packed to go any disiance with safety. 8-5 Charles A. Peabody. HAVE A COW! THREE COPIES FOR ONE DOLLAR! A TREATISE ON MILCH COWS.— ix Whereby the quality and quanlitv of Milk which any cow will give may be accurately determined by ob . serving natural marks or external indications alone ; the length of time she will coniinne to give milk. &c. &c. By M Francis Guenon, of Libourne, France, rraiislaled for the Firmer.s’ I.ibrary, from the French, by N. P. Trist, Esq. late U. S. Con.sul at Havana. With Introductory Remarks and Observations on THE COW AND THE DAIRY, By .loHN S. Skinner, Editor Farmers’ Library. Illustrated willi numerous Engravings — g~Tf |I3= Price for single copies, neatly done up in pa- per covers, 37J cents Full bound in cloih, and letter- ed, 52k cents.. The usual discount to booksellers, a- gents. country merchants and pedlers. Farmers throughout the United States may receive the work through the mails. The postage on each co- py will be about 7 cents. By remitting ®2 free of post- age we will send seven copies of the work done up in paper cover.s, or three copies for 351 L'ounlry merchants visiting an y of the cities can ob- tain the work from booksellers for tho.se who may wish to obtain it. Please sen J on your orders. Address Greeley & McElrath, Publishers, 8 Tribune Buildings, New-York. GAfSB>EN ANE> FSii.XB> SEFliS. A GENERAL a.ssortment of fresh and genu- ine Garden and Field Seed, among which ate the following : Red and white clover, Blue and green grass. Rye and orchard do Timothy and herds do Millet and Lucerne do Seed corn of every valna- Buckwheat & potato oats, Seed wheat, [ble variety Kept constantly on hand by the subscriber, all o w'hich are offered for sale at very moderate prices. All orders, by mail or otherwise, executed with neat ness and despatch. Wm Haines. .1r., 1 No. 232, Broad-street, Augusta, Ga. A SUPPLY of the following varieties o X fresh Turnep Seed, just received, viz : Yellow Svveedish or r irtabaga, very ffne for stock. Large globe turnep, A . “ White flat do “ Hanover or white rula baga do f table “ Norfolk do J For sale in quantities to suit purchases 1 Wm. Haines, Je., Broad-st, WEEKLY CHRONICLE & SENTKsEL, FOR TWO DOLLARS A YEAR ! ! The Largest and Cheapest Family .Newsp.iper in the Soultierr. Slates,. 28 by 46 inches, containing 36 col- umns. is issued from this office every Thursday, at the low rate of TWO DOLL^US per annum, in advance. I J W. & W. S .TONES. Proprietors. (Jlje Soutljerii (HiTUinator Is published on the first of every month, at Augusta, Ga J: W. & VV. S. .TONES, PROPRIETORS. EDITED BY JAMES CAMAK, OF ATHENS, GA. TERMS -ONE DOLLAR A YEAR. 1 copy, one year, Si oo I 25 copies, one 7/car,..S20 oo 6 copies, “ 5 ou I too copies, " .. 75 00 [All subscriptions must commence with the volume.] The Cash System will be rigidly adhered to, and in no case will tlie paper be sent unless the money accompanies the order. ADVERTrsEMENTspertainingto Agriculture, will be in- serted for ONE DOLLAR for every square of ten lines or less, for the first insertion, and seventy-five cents per square for each continuance. D3=’All communications, must be post paid, and a ldressol to JAMES CAMAK, Athens, Georgia. VoL. IV AUGUSTA, GA., OCTOBER, 1846. No. 10. iBlontl)lg (Eaienbar. Altered from the Aynerieav, Agriculturist's Almanac for 1841, and arranged to suit the Southern States. CALEiNOAR FOR OCTOBER. [The following brief hints to the farmer, planter and gardener, will be found to apply not only to the month unddr which they are arranged, but, owing to diversity of seasons, climate and soils, they may frequently an- swer for other months This precaution the consider- ate agriculturist will not fail to notice and apply in all cases where his judgment and experience may dictate.] October is an important month for the farmer in the colder part of the Southern States. In this, he has to collect his roots, apples, co'^n, and store them up for safe-keeping ihrbush the winter. Secure sugar beei and mangol-wurizel before heavy frosts occur. Very light frosts do not injure them while in the ground. They should be perfectly matured, or they will afford less nutrition. Thi^ maybe known by some of their leaves turning yellow. If allowed to re- main beyond this time, there is a new elabora- tion of their juices, and much of the saccha- rine principle, which is the fattening one, isde- stroyedr Turnips and parsnips may be left till in danger of freezing in the ground, and the lat- ter, if not wanted for winter use, are better for remaining till spring. In this case, all the water must be carefully led away from the beds, or they will rot. Potatoes are ripe when the vines are decayed, and they should never be dug be- fore. All roots ought to be protected from the sun after digging, by throwing over them some of the leaves or straw, and as soon as the dirt attached to them is dried, carry them at once to the cellar or pit. Too little care is used in stor- ing roots. The air ought to be carefully kept from them, by putting them in barrels loosely covered, or in bins well guarded by straw or turf, and they are still better lor having light mould or sand sifted into the interstices. Such as are stored in the fields, may be placed in pits, where the ground is dry and sandy, somewhat excavated below the surface, and piled above it to the height required. A coating of straw must first be laid over them, carefully thatched over the heap like shingles, to carry off any water that may leak through the exterior covering of earth, which may be added to the depth of a few inches, just sufficient to prevent injury from early frosts. The covering for winter need not be completed fill later, as by leaving the earth loose, the escape of moisture from the roots is facilitated, as well as the gases, which are gen- erated by the partial heating and curing of the roots, which takes place when they are thrown into heaps soon after they have been dug. When finally covered over for the winter, a hole on the top should be left, or several, if the pit be a long one, in which, a wisp of siraw must be placed, which will allow the escape of all moisture and gas. If the ground is a stiff clay, the roots must be placed on the surface of the ground, and a ditch dug on every side, one foot below them, so as to carry off" all the wa- ter; otherwise, the lower strata will be spoiled by the water retained on the surface. Winter apples ought to be carefully picked by hand, and placed in bins or barrels, and en- tirely excluded from the air. They should oc- cupy a dry, cool cellar, or upper room, in which the temperature is not below the freezing point. If they should become frozen, they must be kept covered and allow the frost to escape gra- dually, when the effect will be scarcely percept- ible ; yet when this occurs, they do not keep as long in good flavor as if untouched by frost. If you have clay land, much of the plo wing for the following sp ing may be done in this month, throwing it into high furrows as much as pos- sible, If there be no demand for your fall ap- ples, they are worth much more to teed to stock, swine and cattle, than for cider ; dispose of all in this way but such as are wanted tor the win- ter use. Secure your winter squashes and pumpkins by placing them in a dry, cool place, and you may have the luxury of good vegetable and pumpkin pies during the winter. All the garden seeds should be carelully selected and placed beyond the reach of decay and vermin. Pre- pare all your supernumerary stock for market; cull out your choicest animals for breed and use, and sell and fat the remainder. Be careful to avoid an overstock for winter. One half the animals well kept, will yield more profit than the whole half kept. Set out trees tor the en- suing spring. They, may be transplanted any time after the sap has ceased to Sow, which oc- curs when the buds are fully developed, and the leaves fallen. This is the proper lime to cut wood for the year. Fuel cut from July till No- vember is more valuable than if prepared at any other season. It not convenient to draw it, let it remain on the ground. Timber cut duringthese months is also much more durable, noiv.'iihstanding the popular opi- nion to the contrary. Kitchen Garden. —K.QS.'p the crops of spinach entirely clean ; they can now be thinned out, leaving the plants lour or five inches apart. Lettuces for early spring use should be treated in the same way. Those for late fall use should be transferred to frames, and protected from frost during the night. The same mode can be adopted with cabbage plants for fall and winter use. During the latter part of the month cut down the aspaiagus tops, and give the bed a coat of well rotted stable manure to the depth of two or three inches. This can be done, howev- er, as well next month. If hemp is wanted for early breaking, spread it out this month for dew-rotting. The lint, however, is whiter and better to defer it till December tor latitudes below 40°; a higher latitude, November is the best month. Fruit Garden and Orchard. — Continue pro- pagating by layers and cuttisgs; plant beds of strawberries that may have been omitted last month. They will be less likely to suffer from the heat of the ensuing summer, than if planted in the spring. Most kinds of hardy fruit and forest trees, may now be trimmed and cleared of lateral shoots and suckers. All kinds of hardy deciduous trees and shrubs can be transplanted this month as soon as they have shed their leaves. Fall planting is preferable for good sized trees, as during the winter they can firmly establish themselves, and be ready to throw out sufficient roots in the spring to withstand the heats of summer. Small seedlings had better be left till spring, as they are liable to be thrown out of the ground by the frost in winter. Flower Garden and Pleasure Grounds. — About the middle or latter end of the month plant tu- lips, hyacinths, &c. Select a warm, mellow soil, and let it be highly manured with well rot- ted compost. The ranunculus and anemone can now be planted, and all other varieties of bulbous and tuberous rooted flowers. Seeds of bulbous and tuberous rooted flowers can now be sown to ob- tain new varieties. Continue to transplant pe- rennial and biennial flower roots. Plant some bulbous roots in flower pots for winter bloom- ing. The latter part of the month, pot your ten- der roses and everything else that requires pro- tection in the winter, and have them ready to move in on the sudden afiproach of any cold weather. Flowering and ornamental shrubs can now be found and also propagated by lay- ers, cuttings and suckers. The latter part of this month new pleasure grounds may be form- ed and all hardy deciduous trees may be trans- planted, as soon as they have shed their leaves. Live hedges can uow be planted. Continue to mow your lawns, clean the gravel walks, cut and carry away all weeds, decayed flower stems, fallen leaves, &c., and prepare ground for spring planting. Plantaiion.— To the sugar planter, as well as the cotton grower, October and November are the most important months in the year. To the cotton grower, the work ot these months will be nearly the same as that of September; astothe sugar planter, it will claim hisspecial attention. In the early part of October, lei him commence and get everything in readiness for cutting and grinding his cane. Repair the roads leading from the cane fields to the mill, if necessary ; put yourcarts and yokes in order ; procure and sharpen the knives or hooks for cutting the cane; see that the mill or rollers are properly geared, well oiled, and are clean. If your busi- rtess will warrant it, procure by all means a steam engine, rather than use horses or mules in grinding. See that the kettles are well set, and that the flues are strong and cleared of filth. Put in order the coolers, and all minor imple- ments used in the operations. Also prepare barrels or hogsheads for filtering; and look to the gutters or conductors for conveying the jui- ces or syrups, and see that they are tight, and properly fitted to your work. Draw and split fuel lor boiling if it has not been done before. By the last of October, in ordinary seasons, more or less ot the cane attains its usual matu- rity in Florida and Louisiana. When this pe- riod arrives, the first thing to be done, is to pro- vi e for future crops. Give early attention to the saving of seed, on Jitconnt of the injury which seed cane receives by Irost, and w’hich is liable to occur before the middle of November. The general rule observed in saving cane for planting, is to reserve such a portion of the crop as is the least ■ valuable for grinding. Hence, those fields which have produced cane from the same stubble for two, three or four years, and which now require, from the stinted growth they produce, to be replanted with cane or some other crop, are selected to furnish seed canes. The cane's from such fields are small and short, having the joints nearer together, each of which sends up shoots called rattoons. One acre of such rattoons is sufficient in ordi- nary cases, for the planting of three A'-'ccs ol land. They are cut near the ground anc^’artcd to the vicinity ot the fields where they ai^to be planted out, and then formed, when not planted as soon as cut, into long beds, about fiffeen feet wide, which are called matlresses. These are made by commencing at one end ol the bed and placing a row of canes, with their tops on, across it— the tops directed outward. Upon 146 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. this a second row is laid, so that the butts are placed about eiffht inches or a tool in advance ol those ol the first row. Upon the second row a third is placed in like manner, and so on. By this arrangement the lower part of the stalk is preserved from the cold, by the tops; except in two or three layers across that portion of the mattress last formed, where the protection is af- forded by tour or five inches of earth, A great part of the planting may be done with about three feet of the rejected cane tops, to which a greater portion of the green leaves are attached at the time of gathering the crop. These, when not reserved for planting, should be lelton the field tor the protection ol the stub- bles; but when cut for planting, it is better to cm them one or tw'o joints longer than usual, and to form them into v inrows across the field. In this case, from two to four rows should be thrown into one, and arranged as respects the over-lapping, like the mattresses above descri- bed. The fields from which these tops are ob tained, are often those that were planted the previous year, and in which the cane is high, and somewhat prostrated at the beginning ol the grinding season. Hence it is necessary to cat this earlier to prevent it from rooting at the lower joints. When the force of the plantation will permit, the land should be planted as fast as the seed-cane is cut. Canes planted at this season should be in the driest fields, and cover- ed to the depth of three or four inches, in order that they may take an earlier start next spring, than if they remain in the mattresses during the winter. The remainder, and by far the greatest part of the planting, may be deferred until the grinding season is over, which varies from the ^th of December to the middle of January; and often it is not completed before the first of March. The covering given to the canes is more and more shallow as the season advances, until the close ol February, when it rarely ex- ceeds two inches. In preparing the ground for planting cane, it should be first thoroughly ditched or drained, and then plowed and harrowed; after which, it should be drilled, at distances varying from 33 inches to six feet apart, according to the new- aess and strength of the soil. Into ihese drills orfu.rrows there should belaid, three or four inches apart, two parallel rows of cane tops, Irora two and a half to lour feet in length, and covered with earth at a depth corresponding to the season of the year in which the planting is d«ae. Housing and Curii.g Tobacco. From the Louisville Journal. Having bad trequent applications for in- formation as to the mode of housing and curing the celebrated Mason county cigar leal tobacco, 1 have thought that 1 could best fulfil the wishes of ray friends by giving the information desired through the medium ofthe Louisville Journal and Dollar Farm^. The tobacco planters of Mason county in- variably cure their tobacco without the applica- tion of artificial heat, except occasionally during damp and rainy weather; it is, t' erefore, of great importance to construct their houses so as to afford a free circulation of the air when bung up. But as it is very injurious to tobacco to be exposed to dews and driving rains, while curing, it is necessary that tobacco houses should be tight enongh to guard against any injury from this source. The great desideratum, then, is, so to construct tobacco houses as to protect the tobacco from the effects of rains and dews; and at the same time afford a free circulation of air through every part of the tobacco house. To accomplish both these objects, and at the same time afford the greatest facilities and sav- ing of labor in hanging tobacco, I recommend the following plan for a tobacco house, sixty by forty-five feet. The same plan will suit fora house of greater or less length than sixty feet, though in general, it would be better to increase the number, rather than the size of tobacco- houses, as they eould thus be placed in situa- ( (ions more con venient to the ground in which it is intended to cultivate tobacco. Plan of a Tobacco House QO by 45 feci, Le( a piece ot ground be selected, as conve- nient as may be to the place where tobacco is intended to be cultivated, at least sixty teetlong, without any inclination either way, or as little as pos.sible; and forty-five teet in the other di- rection, with barely sufficient fall onthesurface each way, to carry off the water dripping from the root on each side. Along the lengihway of this ridge, let two rows ot posts be set, parallel to each other, and twenty-one feel apart. The posts may be set in rows ten or twelve tee4 dis- tant from each other If the former dis ance be preferred, seven, it the latter, six posts will be required in each row These posts should be eighteen teet long, measuring from the surlace ot the ground (it the grounii is not perlecily level, the length cf the posts must be so arranged as to bring all their tops to a horizontal level,) and tenanted on the top. Plates must be lun Irom end to end on the top ot these posts, (splicing the plates to make them longenoush) The posts on the other side must be connected together by cross-ties, (strong enough to hang tobacco on ) The upper lies to be morticed in the plates, and secured by stout locust or oak pins. Another set of ties should be insei ted so as to leave a space ol four feet tour inches, mea suring trom top to top. A third set of ties still four teet lour inches lower. Each of ttiese, like the lies morticed in the plates, should be firmly secured to the side posts by mortices and stout pins. 'I'hese last ties will be about nine feet from the ground, and sufficiently high tor a wagon and team to drive under them with con- venience. Afourihseiot ties should be inserted about five teet trom the ground, one end let into the post by a mortice ot the usual kind, and the other by a side mortice. These ties should not be pinned, but left nnlastened, so that they may easily be taken out and laid aside when housing tobacco, so as to admit a wagon and team to pass through the house trom end to end The two ends of the building should be so framed as to admit ot a douDle doorateach end, wide enough tor a wagon and team to pass entirely through. These doors must open outwardly, and in clear weathershould be kept open, when tobacco is hanging in the house, so as to admit a free circu- lation of air. The rafters should be set on the plates, lour feet from centre to centre, and by making them pretty taut will admit ot two cross ties each, tor hanging tobacco on; and thus the root will hold as much tobacco as one tier in the body ot the house. To afford an abundance of air to the tobacco in the roof, there should be adoor in each gable end, which should be kept open all dry days till the tobacco is perfectly cured. On the cross ties, connect- ing the two sides of the house, rails or sawed scantling should be laid, so as to admit four ranges of tobacco sticks, four feet two inches long. When tobacco is first hung, ttiese sticks should be one foot apart from centre to centre. When the tobacco completely wilts, which it will do in a day or two alter it is hung up, there will be open spaces left betwef'n the different ranges of sticks, and thus the air may freely circulate trom end to end, partly through the folding doors, and partly through those in the gable ends. Allowing the sticks to be one foot apart, and admitting the roof to hold one-fourtn as much as the body of the house, the contents ot the whole will beone thousand five hundred sticks, or twelve thousand plants, supposing each slick to hold eight. The above is a description of the main build- ing, twenty-one by sixty test. On each side of the main building should be a range ol posts corresponding with those in the main building, and twelve feet therefrom. These should be tenanted and have plates thereon, the tops of which should be about twelve and a half feet from the ground. These plates should be con- nected with the plates of the main building by rafters spiked on each plate, and also by three tiers ot cross-ties, the first ranging with the top of the side plates, and connecting wiih the posts ot the mam building; and the other two trom posts, each set tour feet apart, measuring from lopto top. J he whole should be firmly con- nected by tenants and stout pins. These three ranges of cross-ties will admit of hanging three tiers ot tobacco on each side ot I'ne main build- ing, and will hold one thousand and eighty sticks, and eight thousand six hundred and tony plants. It will be seen from the forego- ing calculations, that the house will easily hold at the first hanging, twenty thousand six hun- dred and forty plants. As the tobacco when partially cured may be closed up, so as to leave the sticks about eight inches from centre to centre, the house, by re hanging, will hold one-third more than the above number ol plants, say about twenty-seven thousand five hundred. The house should be enclosed with plank, erect, and placed side by side, without lapping; pine plank, and that not seasoned, will answer best. This mode ot covering the sides and end ot the house will sufficiently secure the tobacco from the weather, and by the shrinking of the plank will admit someair through the cracks. In planking up the sides it will be necessary to hew the outsides ol the posts, and ship-lap pieces ot scantling for nailing the planks to. — The top pieces thus ship-lappeci, should be in- serted about twenty inches below the side plates, and the plankson the twosidesshould extend no higher than to cover the pieces to which they are nailed. Thus there will be the space of twenty inches under each ol the eaves, lor the admis- sion ot air. To prevent rain from driving in at these apertures, broad plank should be ells'* pended to the plates by hinges, so as to raise and let them down according to circu "stances. Thus, on each side, as well as at the two gable ends, air may be freely admiiied. The outsi(ie posts all around should be of locust or cedar, and firmly set in the ground. The inside ones may be set on broad rocks hav- ing a firm foundation. For these, shorter posts, therefore, will answer. I have been assured that a house thus built, if well braced at the corners, will stand perfectly secure, without setting any ot the posts in the ground. As, however, posts set on ror-ks, lying on the surface would be liable to settle more at one place than another, I would prefer having all the outside posts planted about three teet iu the ground. If locust or cedar posts are not to be had, I would recommend white oak posts well charred at the ends, as tar as they are to be inserted in the ground. Having completed the description ot the house, 1 will adtl a lew words as to the most economical plan of housing tobacce. It should be placed on sticks in the field where it grew and hauled to the tobacco house by hanging it across a long frame, say twenty- five teet, fitted up as a wagon be(i. and placed on wheels coupled at a suitable distance. The frame should be about three and a half teet high, and the same width On this frame the sticks may be crowded as close as can be done without bruising the tobacco,. The wagon thus loaded, should be driven through the centre of the house ; and the sticks having each the propernumber of plants, should be trans- ferred to the pi. ces to be occupied by them. — When the two c.heds and the main building are all filled except the two lower tiers ol the latter, then the tier next above the ground tier should be fil ed on each side, with one range of sticks, leaving the middle still open lor the wagon to passthrough. When thisiscomideted.so much tobacco should be hauled and unloaded as will be sufficientlo fill up the second tier, and the whole of the ground tier. The second tier should now be completed, and the cro-s-ties of the lower tier should be replaced and filled with tobacco. A house thus constructed and filled with tobacco as herein directed, will not require the application ot artificial heat, anii, therefore, nothing need be said on that subject. A. Beatty. Wealth is desirable only when honestly ac quired and blessed by contentment. THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 147 From the Farmers’ Cabinet. Model Farm of the Lrulou."it .Mt. Airy, uear Phiiadelphia. Pa. Jarms Gow n’s Report t> the Committee on Farms Gentlkmen: It is ko jwn to most of you, that siuce I became a farmer I have spared no pains to fulfil the duties of the calling in a man- ner creditable to the community in which I live, as well as to myself and the Agricultural Society to which I belong; that while improv- iogmy>)wn practice, I have endeavored, by sundry means, to stimulate others to compete with me in spirited efiorts to arrive at e.tcel- lence in the highly u-elul and delightful pur- suits ofagriculture; and to promulgate as far as in me lav, such improvements and results as were likely to promote the general interests of the farmer. In carrying out this object, I have, as part of the system, always been found competing with the crops and cattle for the pre- miums offered by “ The Philadelphia Society for promoting Agriculture.” It is, therelore, in accordance with this praciice, that I now pre- sent my farm as worthy of note, v hen you come to award the premiums committed to your dis- tribution; in view of which, and in fulfilment of the rules and regulations of the Society, I submit tor your consideration a general state- ment of its character and condition. The Homestead farm contained, when I re- moved to it in 1834, about 60 acres, since which I have added to it by purchase, some 40 acres, all of which is contiguous; making over 100 acres, exclusive of the Woodland Farm, in Chelten- ham township, Montgomery Co., part of which is cleared and worked by me, and is in fine con- dition, as you may recollect from my commu- nication on the crop of rye raised there in 1842, From long neglect and a bad practice, pre- vious to. my coming on the Homestead, 1 found it in every respect in a wretched condition. The results of bad plowing and bad seeding, were visible in the unevenness of the surface, and the pertrtcious weeds that seemed to have en- tire possession. 1 at once took up the old fences which divided about 40 acres into small fields, plowed it up, eradicated the briers and brambles that filled so large a space along those fences, and removed the stones within plowing depth. It was cropped according to circumstances; alternately with potatoe.®, corn, grain, &c., until the soil had been brought into proper subjection in the fall of 1839, when it was laid down lor grass, by sowing 't with grain and timothy ; since which it has not been disturbed, with the exception of about eight acres in rye, this year; and yet this last summer it cut, I may safely say, two tons to the acre, and expect it to do as well next summer, should the season prove favorable. — By this practice, I brought every inch of the land to bear, aud saved ten years' expense, or wear and tear of the six fences which formerly stood inside this section. The fields in future will be divided by hedges of the Madura, thorn or Osage Orange, raised by myself; four of these hedges already in, with plenty of quick® on hand to supply the remainder. These re- marks, you will please observe, apply to the land lying on the southeast side of the lane that divides the farm. The land on the northwest side, opposite, called the Springfields, was, if possible, in a still worse condition. Owing to the swampv nature of part of it, and the wash- ings from the higher lands on the other side the lane, the posts were every spring thrown out of place as the frost left the ground, while the ravines, furrowed out by thaws and heavy rains, set at defiance all attempts at cropping or farming. To obviate the yearly setting up ol the fences, which was not only expensive, but vexatious, 1 substituted a stone and lime wall for the post and rail fence. The wall is about half a mile ir ng, is two feet below the suface at every point, two feet broad at base, and averages over six feet high from the bottom, ending with an eighteen inch coping. One large under- drain, with grating at the mouth, takes the water from ths lane, while several smaller drains keep the surlace of the land perfectly dry. The ravines were well filled up, and ever since, for a series of years, good crops of pota- toes, corn, grain and grass have been taken, where tormerly grew spatterdock and rushes. The land adoed to the farm at sundry times within the last five or six years, was, in general, in as bad a condition in many respects, as ihe worst ol that already described; indeed, it could furnish material lor a more repulsive picture than any that has been drawn yet; but as most of j’ou have repeatedly seen it in its original state, I need not trouble you with a de- scription. To show its condition now, I need only remind you that two years ago I obtained a premium for raising upwards of fourhundred bushels of Mercer potatoes to the acre, on this land; and that on the succeeding year, from the same potato lana, I took upwards of fifty bush- els of wheat to the acre, without any additional manure. Also, that last year 1 submitted a field of some seven acres of corn, on another portion of this land, which yielded at the rate of 200 bnshels of ears, equal to 100 bushels shelled corn to the acre. My reports on the condition of these fields, and the aforesaid crops, are in possession of the Society. The corn land was in this year with potatoes and oats. — The potatoes, four acres, yielded over 200 bushels to the acre ; the oats were very good. — It is now laid down with wheat and orchard grass. This sketch, with your own personal observations, will afford you some idea of what I had to contend with, and what I have accom- plished in the way of improving land, and the present condition of my farm. From the difficulty and expense in procuring manure from the city, and alter three or four years experience in that mode of supply, I gave it up, and adopted the plan of making a supply on the place, by an increased stock of cattle; from which I have derived my sole supply ever since, with the exception or light dressings of lime and gypsum, and a small lot ol stable ma- nure, which 1 was templed to purchase a few weeks since, at auction, and which I can dis- pense with, should 1 meet with a purchaser be- fore its removal in the spring. The keeping and breeding fine stock, had in itself strong claims upon my judgment, as well as my taste; as 1 could never thinkafarm was what itshould be, unless it could exhibit fine cattle as well as an improved culture. To maintain this stock, and bring my land to a high state of culti vati on, by the most efficient and economical practice, has been a leading object; and to accomplish this, required no ordinary management on such alarm. The stock in cattle has tanged, for years, from forty to filly head, in addition to the necessary horses, with a large slock of sivine for breeding and fattening; and -these I have fed from the produce of the farm, except the purchasing, occasionally, of some straw, and supplies of mill-feed tor the horses and swine, and some meadow fiay for the cattle, selling frequently its «=quivalent in timothy. During the same period 1 have sold hundreds of bushels of rye, some wheat, and, on an average, four hundred bushels potatoes annually, with some three to four hundred bushel® of carrots, besides providingfor the family. Butthechiel ineoma was derived from the cattle, of which I shall speak more at large presently. My expenditures during the whole period could not be otherwise than large; as I could not put up so much stone fence and picket fence as toenclose my farm, withcuHneurringa heavy outlay; but I view these improvements as cheap in the end. It may be safely inferred, that iherf* is not, at this day, any farm of the same extent in this part of the country, that can so easily be worked, or will rf'quire so little exrense for a series of years, in keeping the fences in order, especially when the hedges are taken into account. I am also of opinion that, taking in view the condition ofihe soil, as to the depth and richness, as well as its being en irely Ireeol stones and other impediments, that I can make it produce as much as any farm of iissi^e in any part ul the country lor a series of years, and at as small an expense. The secret of keeping so large a stock on so little land, consists in my practice of partial soiling, and green crops, whereby I make some tour or five acres do the work of thirty acres, in the ‘slow and easy go way.’ From May to August my cattle are confined to one or two fields, most commonly one, to which they are driven more for exercise in the cooler parts of the day than for pasture, they being fed in the stables early in the morning, at noon, and at night with food cut for them from a lot adjoining the barn-} ard. This food is generally of lucerne, orchard grass and clover, oats and corn. The patches from which the corn and oats are cut, are always sowed wiih turnips in August. No one can credit, unless he has had proper experience in the matter, the quantity of food that one acre of lucerne, one of rich orchard grass and clover, and one of oats and corn, afford from May till August, nor can he estimate the great saving in manure, much less the comparatively good health of the cattle, from not being exposed on naked fields, under a fervid sun, toiling all day in search of food. This practice allows me to crop almost the whole of the land, and to make some 120 to 150 tons of hay annually. In the fall, from August till November, the cattle have the whole range of the mowed lands, as I do not cut second crop grass for hay. Then for winter feed, I have always an acre ol sugar beet, half an acre of sugar parsnips, hall an acre or more of carrois, for my horses, and generally three to four acres of turnips. I report to the committee on crops this season, over 100 tons of these roots. In 1843, I gathered from one acre 1078 bushels sugar beets, 60 pounds to the bushel : carrots at the rate 687 bushels; sugar parsnips, 868 bush- els. This year 972 bushels sugar beets; 970 buihels carrots; 700 bushels sugar parsnips; and from three and a half acres, 2500 bushels ol turnips, sowed with timothy seed. The farm buildings consist ol three substan- tial Slone barns, one 70 feet by 33, another. 50 bv 26, and another hipt roof with cupola, 57 by 25, besides a large overshoot stable and hay- house, stable high, of stone, 60 feet by 30. The lower door of all these are made of broken stone, and lime, planked, being vermin proof. — There are also a corn-crib capable of holding 1200 bushels of corn, one barrack, ample hog pens, and sheds for carts and wagons. The barn buildings have been filled this fall to their utmost limit, except the corn crib, A subsiantial stone wall encloses the princi- pal manure heap. The draining? from this heap are led into a place underground from the kitchen, as well as drainings from pigpens and the washings from all the yards. These drainings form an important item in the supply of manure to my land. It is a saving which! cannot estimate at less than $200 a year. This liquid, by a simple process, is applied to the patches of roots, &c., and to this may be as- cribed my great success in raising such crops. The dwellings, green house, shrubbery, and gardens, 1 n»ed not describe; but it is in point to notice tbs nursery ol young ornamental trees, and Madura for hedges, raised on places mostly waste on other farms, from which I have an ample supply for my owm setting out, and a considerable stock to spare, of Magnolia Tri- petalla, or Cucumber tree, and Silver Maple, offine size, suitable for transplanting. I sold over fifty dollars’ worth last spring of these trees, and have sevei-al hundred dollars' worth still oa hand, for sale. Of Improved Cattle, my first efforts was with the celebrated ‘Dairy Maid,’ still owned by me. Her first calf, Leander, by Whitaker’s Prince of Northumberland, w'as reared and kept by me for breeding. Dairy Maid’s calves alone, exclusive of Leander, have already sold for more than $500. It would be curious to trace her profit at this day, by stating an account of her first cost, her keep, and that of her son Le- ander; crediting her by sales of herown calves and grand calves, deducting lor the portion of capital w hich was invested in the dams that produced the grand calves. Toffo this would 148 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. extend this paper to an unusual length ; suffice it to say that Dairy Maid has long since paid lor herself, and that those who laughed at me lor giving $540 for one cow, may turn this statement over in theirminds, and think whether, since 1838, any investment of theirs, to the same amount, in any other branch of husbandry, has paid so well. But they may exclaim that ‘you cannot do the like again.’ Yes I can; lor if the price ol fine cattle be reduced through their be- coming plentier, (thanks to those who made them plentier,) the principal invested may not be so large, in the purchase ot one animal to begin with, but there cannot be a doubt, il she be superior or superlative, the produce ol such an animal will realize as good a per centage as did that ol Dairy Maid. But there is a satis- faction beyond that ol the pocket, and that is, that Dairy Maid’s breed will be of infinite ser vice to the country. Her calves and grand calves are pretty well scattered already — and I make no doubt, but wherever found they will demonstrate the high character of the parent stock. My sales for the last two years, exclusive of Dairy Maid’s calves, amount to over §2000. The stock now on hand is about 40 head, prin- cipally Durhams, among which are Dairy Maid, Cleopatra, Walnut, Victoria, Ellen Kirby, Miss Model, Victorina, Judy, Bessy Bell, &c. &c. The butter sold for the last two years exceeds ^50. This is a respectable item, when the calves that were reared, and the supply for my family, are taken into view. From ear- ly fall to spring, the butter averaged 70 pounds per week — the quality highly appreciated abroad as well as at home. In butter, cream and milk, there is BO stint at Mount Airy ; so of fruits, vegetables, hams, &c. If I be a large producer, I may be also classed as a large consumer, and did I not produce, the market would suffer ac- cordingly. In the hog line, I have been quite successful, at least in bringing the animal by judicious cross- ing, to great perfection. I latted off my old Lincoln and Berkshire boars, and my Hamp- shire and Chester county sows, last month ; they weighed from 400 to 450 lbs., sold for $86 24. Have sold the last two years ot pigs, de- signed for breeding, $150; bacon, lard, &c., over $120, besides having on hand 14 fine young barrows, last fall’s pigs, now ready for slaughter, which will weigh from 250 to 300 lbs. each, value $150. The stock on hand consists of one fine boar of Lincoln, Hampshire and Berkshire breed; one brood sow of Berkshire breed, 12 shoats and seven pigs. The sow and pigs are the same that took the premium at the last Agri- cultural Exhibition. Building and work independent of the farm, induced to the keeping of a heavy stock of work- ing horses, consisting of five, employed occa- sionally hauling stone, sand, &c. They are the same horses originally purchased, at at and since the commencement of ray farming operations; having neitherscW, last nor exchanged one. The two carriage horses average 20 years old each ; ray favorite of these is quite 25. So much tor management in this depart- ment. The implements — wagons, carts, plows, harrows, &c. &c.— are in keeping with the farm, and are well kept as you may observe. I keep no farmer on the place in the charac- ter of manager, having never, as yet, been able to find a man qualified to conduct the operations of the yard and field, in a manner as they should be. My practice is to hire one man for general work, at $20 to $25 per month ; also, two hands for out-door work alone, who are capable to work at any job of farming. They have em- ployment from early spring to the first of De- cember, at 75 cents per day — these three find themselves. Then there are two men engaged constantly, feeding and taking care of cattle, feed manure, &c., who receive from $10 to $12 per month, and found. By this arrangement, 1 have always a pretty strong force on emergen- cies, and to avail myself of seasonable opera- tions. My work is generally well done and timely ffijn#. I have thus given you a general insight into the condition of my farm, and the system fay which it has been brought to its present state ol perfection. If substantial fences, clean fields, well worked land, good crops, good barns, and splendid cattle, be essential to constitute a good farm, I trust you will find none of these fea- tures wanting on mine. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, James Gowen. Mount Airy, De . 24, 1844. From the American Agriculturist. Salt as a Fertilizer, &c. , The value of salt for agricultural purposes has long been known both in Europe and in this country, and why it has not been more general- ly used is beyond my comprehension. More than one hundred and fifty years ago. Sir Hugh Platt, an eminent writer of the day, speaks very decidedly of the benefits which might be deriv- ed from the practice of sprinkling salt upon land, and calls it “ the sweeelest and cheapest, and the mosiphilosophical material of all others.” He relates the case of a man who, in passing over a creek on the sea shore, suffered his sack of seed corn to fall into the water, and there it lay until it was low tide, when, being unable to purchase more seed, he sowed that which had lain in salt water; and when harvest time arrived, he reap- ed a crop far superior to any in the neighbor- hood. The writer adds, however, that it was supposed the corn (grain) would not fructify in that manner, unless it actually fell into the sea hy chance } and therefore, neither this man nor any of his neighbors, ever verituredto make any further use of salt water! That salt is an excsllent manure, experience, the most satisfactory of all evidences, clearly proves. It is stated in an English publication, that “ a farmer in the county of Sussex, some years since, had a field, one part of which was very wet and rushy, and that the grass produced upon it was of so sour and unpleasant a kind, that the cattle would not graze upon it. He tried seve- ral methods to improve it, but all to no purpose ; at last hearing ot the benefits of salt as a ma- nure, he determined to try that; lor which pur- pose he procured a quantity of rock salt, which, in a random way, without any regard to the pre- cise quantity, he threw upon the rushy ground, fencing it off from the other part of the field, the effect of which was a total disappearance ol every kind of vegetation. In a short time, how- ever, it produced the largest quantity of mush- rooms ?ver seen upon an equal space of land in the country. These, in the spring following, were succeeded by the most plentiful and luxu- riant crops of erass, far exceeding the other part of the field in richness of verdure and quickness of growth. Though this salt was laid on twenty years ago, this part is still supe- rior to the rest ot the field.’' From the information which I have been able to collect, I am inclined to believe that salt, when sparingly applied, is valuable as a tertili- zer, and useful in killing the grub and wire worm, which often injure, and sometimes even destroy whole crops; and it has been found by experiment the past season, that the scab, or dis- ease which has proved so disastrous to the po- tato crop in all sections ot the country, has not been found on land that had a proper dressing of salt. . Judge Hamilton, of Scoharie, informed the writer that he had found great advantage from using salt on his potato ground last spring. After plowing, he caused four bushels of salt to be sown on the furrow, upon one acre of the field, and harrowed in. Potatoes were then planted. Part of the field was not salted. Al- though the season was remarkably dry, the salt- ed acre was observed to maintain a green, vi- gorous appearance, while the other part looked sickly and stunted. On lifting them in the fall, those potatoes where salt was applied, were of good size, smooth skin, sound, and of good quality, and yielded a fair crop, while of those on the unsalted part of the field, although the soil was fully equal to that ot the salted portion the yield was considerably less, potatoes small, and much eaten by worms. His neighbor had a field of potatoes on the opposite side of the road, soil similar to his own, who planted them in the usual way; the consequence was, his crop was small in size, inferior in quality, and most of them rotted soon after digging — they were diseased. Dr. Bogart, who has charge of the Sailor’s Snug Harbor, on Staten Island, informed me that he applied lour bushels of salt to one acre of his potato ground, last spring, and thinks he derived great benefit from it. Though the crop was not a large one, the potatoes on the salted portion were of much better size, skin smooth, and free from disease. The vines were more vigorous, remained green, while those on land of the same quality adjoining, which was not salted, shrivelled and died prematurely; the po- tatoes small and soggy, and less in quantity. C.W. Johnson, a distinguished agricultural writer, strongly recommends salt as a manure, at the rate of from ten to twenty bushels to the acre, to be sown two or thiee weeks before the seed is put into the ground. He says the bene- fits are as follows: “1st, w’hen used in small portions it promotes putrefaction, 2d, by de- stroying grubs and weeds. 3d, as a constituent of direct food. 4th, as a stimulant to the ab- sorbent vessels. 5th, by preventing injury from sudden transitions of temperature. 6th, by keeping the soil moist.” It would seem from all the facts 1 have been able to collect, that salt corrupts vegetable sub- stances when mixed in small quantities, but preserves them when it predominates in a mass; that in dry seasons its effects are more appa- rent, and whether it attracts moisture from the atmosphere, or whether it acts as a condiment or stimulant, is of little consequence, so long as its effects are certain. On account of the small quantity of salt, in weight, requi’^ed for manuring lands, it is no inconsiderable recommendation, because, on that account, it may with ease be conveyed to the most rough, steep and mountainous parts, to which the more bulky and heavy manures most in use could not be carried, but with infi- nite labor, and at an expense far exceeding all the advantages to be effected from it. Salt alone is considered by some rather too severe and harsh in its nature ; but mixed with ashes, say six ot salt and ten of dry ashes, well beat up together, which is sufficient for an acre, and spread upon the fuirow, and harrowed in, it will prove areal enricher. C. N. Bement. From the Greenville Mountaineer, Improvement of Southern Soils. Col. Towns:— In passing through the Dis- trict I see many good pieces of low ground about being buried by the red mud, washed by the rains from the gullies on the adjoining hillsides. Could not much be conveniently done to pre- vent this 1 I guard ditches which run at differ- ent points across the face of such hills, so as to conduct off the water more slowly, and throw brush into the gullies so as to slop the down- ward progress of the clay and sand; and a gen- eral coating of brush and trash on the gullied surface above, so as to promote the growth of some SOI tot vegetation, as well as to impede the downward force of the current of water, I say, would not the employment of these various means pay well for the labor and time thus laid out7 Again : when any portion of a field becomes worn and inclined to wash, would it not be a much better policy to plow il deep and manure if wicZf, than to leave it uncultivated, as is now most generally done? By the one course the spot would be restored to fertility, and by the other, that much land would not only remain valueless, but be constantly, every rain, doing injury to the land that lay below it. This much 1 intended to say in my last, but want of room compelled its omission. THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 149 Haviag disposed, for ihe present, ot the means necessary to prevent the land from washing, I will next invite the attention ot the farmers of Greenville to some suggestions for managing so as to exhaust our fields less, at the same time that we increase the amount of manure to carry bach to them, it see. us to be the general belief among the most important agriculturists, that the ripening ot the seedot our cultivated plants exhausts the soil much more than the produc- tion of the whole ol the vreen plant. For ex- ample, that two crops ot Clover or Oats led off in the bloom will not impair the fertility ot a gi- ven soil more than one crop of either when the seeds are all permitted to ripen. It is equally true, that when stock consumes the whole of a given crop, they make more manure than they would if only the ripe seed had been consumed. Had our tanners not best acton. These princi- ples, more than they have heretofore? If more grass and green crops were raised, could not as much stock as is now made, be produced with much less deterioration to our farms? The same amount of stock, full fed on green crops, would, it is believed, give as much manure as they do now, and therefore the difference must be in favor of sustaining, at least, if not impro- ving, the productiveness of our farms. But says one, this reasoning would do very well lor the grass country of Kentucky, but ihls climate does not suit grass. In reply I would say, the climate of Kentucky is about as much superior to ours for corn as it is for grass; and if we are to make no grass because it grows better in Kentucky, why, we had just as well quit raising corn, too. Much of the soil of Kentucky is ve- ry rich^ and is that much better for grass than ours; but in all the mountainous parts of this District, and the country sufficiently near the mountains to secure sufficient moisture, grass will grow as well as in any part of the world on soil of the same quality. It may not be as good for one month in the year, or the hay may not be as rich in nutriment as Haywood or Yancey in N. Carolina; but what I mean to say is, that one acre of good grass in the upper part of Greenville District, judiciously managed, will be worth as much in the course of the year, to maintain stock, as anywhere else; for if the pasture was less rich, it will last a great deal longer, and if the hay is less nutritious, the win- ter in which it is led is much milder, and ani- mals require a less nutritious food than where the weather is more severe. In addition to this, we have in the common corn field pea, of very great importance, a green crop, both for feeding green and cured, the benefit of which is denied by the climate to those countries where grass does better than with us. Farmers of Greenville, can’t you raise more stock than you do? can’t you do it, without feeding so much corn from your ciibs? Can’t you sat^more manure than you have been do- ins ? The true answers to these questions, and the proper practice based thereon, may not af- ford such general interest or excitement, as the news from Gen. Taylor’s camp ; nevertheless there is one, at least, thatconsiders them of more importance to the prosperity and happiness of the District, I love very much to hear the glo- rious news from the Rio Grande, but let us not in our patriotic exultations over the faithful performance of duly— hy our noble little army — forget or neglect our own. Agricola. From the American Agricnltutist, How to Sustain and Improve the (Quality of the Soil. It has become an important inqui-y among many of ourfarmers, how they shall fertilize such of their lands as are yielding large burthens of produce, which are taken off the premises for sale ? Where remote from a large city, or places for supplying manures, this is a most important query, and one which they are highly interested in having answered correctly. It is absolutely certain, that fanners eann-ot annually rob their farms of large crops of grain, grass and roofs, without either supplying manure to the soil, or losing rapidly in its fertility. We shall briefly indicate some of the most obvious resources for sustaining and improving the productiveness of the soil. In the first place, not an ounce of animal ma- nure should be suffered to be wasted, either li- quid or solid. When not dropped on the feeding grounds, but around the stables and yards, it should be carefully saved and treasured up, where it cannot waste till use 1. This should bt care- fully and judiciously compounded with turf, or peat, or vegetable matter, so as to retain all its gases, and not be permitted to drain away, and as soon as a proper time offers, it should be car- ried on to the fields and at once incorporated with the soil. Another resource for many of our Kastern farmers, is the immense stores of peat and muck that are within their reach, and which tends greatly to benefitting a light, sandy or loamy soil. All the animal matter, ashes, leach- ed or unleached, should be carefully collected and applied to their land, and any otner fertiliz- ing substance which is to be found around the premises or can be collected at not too great an expense in the neighborhood. But in many cases where the stock of cattle is not large, and the produce sold from the land is considerable, some more definite and certain means for sustaining a farm must be resorted to. With the most intelligent and systematic agri- culturists, a proper rotation is adopted, which has been found by experience, to be adapted to the locality and products. By this is meant, a regular succession of crops on the same field through a series of years, which at their expira- tion, are again repeated. They are so arranged that two grain crops never follow each other, but are separated by root crops, grass, &c. This system prevents the necessity of the soil yield- ing similar ingredients through two or more suc- cessive seasons, which it will .seldom do to an extent sufficient to produce a good second crop. Time is required for it to decompose such of the ingredients which it contains, as are necessary to form what are called the inorganic portions of the plant, in such conditions as to be taken up and appropriated by the plant. It also enables the cultivator to apply his green or putrescent manures to such crops as are most properly adapted to receive them. Such are corn and roots, and nearly all the objects of cultivation excepting the smaller grains. Thfi great object of rotation, however, is to give the land rest as it is termed, when allowed to remain in grass or meadow; or refreshment when clover or other fertilizing crops are plowed into the soil for manure. Such crops carry back to the soil so much of its materials as they have taken from it, and in addition, important ele- ments which they have abstracted from the at- mosphere ; and they are found by long practice, to be of great benefit in sustaining the fertility of the soil. Before passing on to a consideration connected with this particular point in the' sub- ject, of the highest importance, we would say, that a large shrre of the benefit to the land, de- rivable from this practice, may be secured, by feeding the clover to such animals as will con- sume it on the ground. We say a part only, for all the food which goes to supply the respiration of the animal, which is no inconsiderable share, passes off again into the air, and Is lost. Ano- ther part is stowed up in the augmented size of the animal, for it is certain that whatever weight it acquires while feeding, is at the expense of the soil. Tf milch cows are pastured, the abstrac- tion of valuable ingredients is still greater, as it has been found that pastures fed off for a long time by cows, have been robbed of large amounts of phosphate ot lime, and other important mat- ter. If horses are thus fed and taken on to the roads or elsesvherc to work, it is evident that large quantities of this manure will thus be lost to the fields supplying the food. Sheep are undoubtedly the best adapted to the object we have in view. They remain stationary in the same fields where they feed, and return to them all they have taken, save what escapes by respiration, evaporation, or is stored up by the wool or carcass. They also drop their manure on the highest an.d driest parts of the ground, where it is more beneficial than elsewhere ; and we would most earnestly recommend the intro- duction of sheep husbandry on a more or less extended scale, to any farmer who practices the system ot turningin crops for manure. The ne- cessity of carrying them through the winter, will still further provide the materials for fertili- zation, by accumulating a store of manure from this source, which, without the sheep or a full equivalent in other stock, would not be thus se- cured. But to recur to the subject of turning in green crops. It is evident at a single glance, that this system does not accomplish all that is necessary in sustaining the full measure of fertility ofland subject to close cropping. In a rotation consist- ing of clover and wheat simply, we find that the wheat abstracts large amounts of phosphate of lime, potash, gypsum, salt, &c., &c., which, if nothing be added to the soil, except the clover crop, will in a few years leduce any ordinary soil to so low a point, that it cannot yield profitable returns, ff'he land may continue to yield for a long time ; but it is evident that it is losing pro- perties at every successive harvest, which must be supplied to it, or it will eventually be exhaust- ed. The truea.id only remedy for this is, to ascer- tain by analysis, either of your own or the well estab'ished researches of others, precisely what of the inorganic materials, such as are inherent in the soil, and not found to any appreciable ex- tent in the atmosphere, are taken from the land by cropping or feeding, and not returned to it by straw, manure or offal of any kind, and return those materials to the land in such available shape as will enable future crops to supply them- selves with all they require. This is indispensa- ble to a succession of good crops and prolongs fertility, and no farmer is wise who neglects this practice for a single year, however seemingly well his adopted system may answer, which does not embrace the foregoing practice. From the Northern British Review, Rotation of Crops* It is better to prevent the special exhaustion we have been speaking of, than to cure it. — It is often difficult to discover what the land really requires, and therefore to cure the evil when it exists. The only method of preventing it, with which we are yet acquainted, is by the introduction of a skilful rotation or alternation of unlike crops. In adopting such a rotation, we only copy from nature. In the wild forest, many generations of broad-leaved trees live and die, and succeed each other; but the time comes at last, when a general pestilence seems to as- sail them all; their tops droop and wither, their branches fall off", their trunks rot. They die out, and a narrowed leaved race succeed them. This race again has its life of centuries, per- haps; but death seizes it too, and the expanded leaf of the beach, tbe ash and the oak, again cheer the eye— playing with the passing ze- phyrs and glittering in the sun. So in ihe broad meadow, the old pasture changes, and new races of humble grasses succeed to each other as the field increases in age. The alternati®n of crops, therefore, asserts to itself something of the dignity ot a natural law ; and man is evident- ly in the right course when he imitates nature in a procedure like this. But upon what do its good effects depend 1 Why do the broad leaved alternate with the narrow in the ancient forests? W hy do the grasses change in the old meadow ? Why does the farmer obtain a larger produce, and for a greater number of years, by growing unlike crops alternately, than by continuing year after year to grow the same ? The reason is not merely that one crop carries off more, and another less, of all those things which all oar crops derive from the soil, but that one cropcar- ries offmore of one thing, and another crop more of another. The grain carries off phos- phorous, the straw silica, the bulb alkaline mat- ter. After, perhaps, fifteen or twenty successive crops of the same kind, the surface soil through which the roots are spread becomes so poor in those substances, which the crop especially re- quires, that the plant cannot obtain from it a sufficient supply to nourish and bring to maturi- ty the full grown plant, within the time allotted to it in our climate for its natural growth. The roots do their best; they collect as diligently as they can, but winter comes on and the growth ends before the plant is fully matured. In the 150 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVA I OR. case of corn, the first effect of a scarcity, say ol phosphoric acid, is to make the earsnaaller, and the number of grains less; the next to continue the growth into the winter, and only when a ve- ry fine season occurs to ripen theearatall. But suppose we alternate the corn crop, which in its grain carries off phosphoric acid, with a hay crop, which requires much silica, or a root crop to which much alkaline matter is necessary- then the one crop would live upon and remove what the other had left in greater abundance. Instead of robbing the soil every year of the same substances, we should be exhausting it more equally of all; and we should be able, for double the time at least, to crop it without the risk of its ceasing entirely to give us a profita- ble return. We should gradually work up also every available substance in the soil, whether such as are naturally present in it, or such as we have ourselves added in the form of manure. What is true of the simple alternations of corn with a green crop, is more true still of a longer and more complicated rotation. The greater the variety of crops we grow, and the longer the interval between the successive crops of the same kind, the more perfectly do w’e avail our- selves of the benefits which an obedience to the suggestions of this principle is fitted to confer upon us. No rotation, it is true, however skill- ful, will alone prevent the land from becoming ultimately exhausted. Nothingbut regularand generous manuring will do this, unless there be, in springs from beneath, or in the decaying fragments of rock mixed with the foil, or in sub- stances brought down from higherground, or in the nature of the rains that fall upon the land, I some perennial source of those substances which the crops always carry ofl from the soil. But in a skillful rotation there is this virtue, that land which is subjected to it sannot be ruin- ed in so short a time. If one tenant use it ill, it may come into the hands of another before ruin is so far irredeemable that the farmer who has a rent to pay cannot reclaim it w'ith a pros- pect of immediate profit to himself. Extraorfllnary Experiment with Wheat. The American Agricultural Association held its monthly meeting on Wednesday evening. Hon. Luther Bradish presided. R. L. Pell, Esq., of Pelham, detailed an experiment in the cultivation of wheat, which appeared to us en- tirely new. He said that on the 4th ot October, last year, he c'eared the tops from a potato field, burnt them, and returned the ashes, with the view of sowing wheat. The seed w'as prepar- ed thus: soaked four hours in brine that would buoy up an egg; then scalded with boiling hot salt water mixed with pearl ashes, then through a sieve distributed thinly over the barn floor, and a dry compost sifted on it, composed of the following substances: oyster-shell lime, char- coal dust, ashes, brown sugar, salt, Peruvian, guano, silicate of potash, nitrate of soda, and sulphate of ammonia. The sun was permitted to shine upon it for about half an hour, when the articles became, as it were, chrystalized upon the grain. In this state it was sown at the rale of Sj bushels to the acre, directly on the potato ground, from which the tops had been removed, and plowed under to the depth ol five inches, harrowed once, a bushel of timothy seed sown to the acre, and harrowed twice; at the expiration of 15 days, the wheat was so far above ground as to be pronounced by a neigh- bor far in advance ol his, which had been sown in the usual way on the 1st of September, 34 days earlier. A composition made by Mr. P., containingSO different chemical substances, was spread broadcast over the field before the wheat came up, at an expense not exceeding three dol- lars. The yield per acre was somewhere about seventy bushels. The flour made from this wheat, which weighed nearly 65 lbs. to the bushel, received the first premium at the last Fair of the Ameri- can Institute. The superiority of the flour was owing to the enormous amount of gluten it con- tained. Mr. P. read Dr. D, P. Gardner’s anal- ysis ot the flour, which showed that it contain- ed 18 percent, of gluten after having been dried bv an air pump over sulphuric acid. His rpa- nures were applied for the purpose of producing gluten. — N. Y Commercial. From the South Carolinian. Tne Southern States should go Largely into the Culture of Wheat. Wheat has acquired the first rank of all the cereal grains, in consequence of the nutritious quality and large quantity of gluten which it contains. Gluten is the “viscid elastic sub- stance which remains when wheatflour is wrant in a coarse cloth, and washed under a stream of water, so as to carry off the starch and soluble matters.” This substance, in a state of purity, is inodorous, insipid, tenacious, adhesive and elastic. If separated from the starch, &c , and kept warm, it freely ferments. It is an essen- tial ingredient in all grains, and is also found in a number of vegetables and fruits. It is also the essential part ot yeast, and resembles albu- men so nearly that it is ditncult to distinguish it from that substance. From the large quanti- ty ot nitrogen which it contains, it has been called the Vegeto-animal principle. Accord- ing to the experiments made by the celebrated M. Magendie, in the feeding of animals, it has been proven that “gelatine, fibrine, and albu- men, when taken singly, do not possess the pow- er of sustaining life.” The reverse is the case, however, with gluten, upon which animals thrive well and long. We go at length into this scientific descrip- tion of the component parts ol wheat, which consist of gluten, starch, sugar, gum, bran and water, so that our remarks may be comprehend ed. Starch is by far less nutritious than gluten, and abounds in the proportion of from about 6 to 1 part of gluten. From all that has been de- veloped by the aid of science, it has been clear- ly proven that gluten can be varied and increas- ed by climate, and the character of the fertili- zers used to promote the growth of the plant. This fact has been well attested. The differ- ence in climate upon a fair trial and by analysis of the grain, has resulted in the following satis- factory statement in favor of the warmest re- gions in which wheat is grown : WARM CLIMATE. Starch. fi6.05 Gluten 14.55 Sugar 8,48 Gum 4,90 Bran 2.30 Water ...12.30 100.49 Let the reader look below at the result of the analysisof wheai grown in a cold climate, and compare the great preponderance of starch with that of the former. Aiso observe the large quantity of gluten and sugar contained in the grain grown in a warm climate, and estimate the comparative value ol that which contains so large a proportion ot those essential ingre- dients, which constitute in the main the nutri- tious qualities of the grain, with that which is greatly deficient in those substances. COLD CLIMATE. Starch 71 .49 Gluten 10. 9S Sugar 4.72 Gum 2.32 Bran 1. Water ..10.00 100.49 These statements fully show the great supe- riority of our climate over more northern re- gions for producing the most nutritious grain, but the agriculturist who vvishes to embark in the successful growing of wheat, should not al- low his inquiries to stop at this point ; lor that is only the advantage which nature has given him in the ingredients of this grain after it is produ- ced. It is the business of the Southern agri- culturist to apply that science to the culture of this grain, which will enable him to compete in the quantity produced, and by excelling in qual- ity, thus make this branch of farming profita- ble. Here is the uifiiculiy upon which experi- menters with wheal have failed, tor they did not understand the comparative value ot fertil- izers used to improve t e quality ol the gram. Experiments have shown that the following is the relative value of fertilizing manures which have been tried: Wheat, average crop gluten, 19. 0 Raised on soil manured with ox-blood 31.24 “ “ “ human Fseces 33.94 “ “ “ Urine 35. 1 “ “ “ Horse manure 13.68 “ “ “ Cow “ 11.06 “ ” “ Cotton seed ...16.16 This statement is not entirely applicable to onr system of applying manures, lor the in- creased quantity of gluten both from the manure ot horses and cattle, is much greater than is sta- led; as all the urine ol ilie animals, which is not estimated in the aboe , is incorporated in it. The manure ot horses, applied as it is usually carried out from our Southern farm lands, is ca- pable of yielding an increase in gluten of 23 per cent., instead of 13. 68 per cent., as stated in the above table, and is the best manure we can apply in large quantities to our wheat crops, it is more warming, and hence more beneficial than the manure of cattle, which is of a very cold nature. Imparting stimulating nourish- ment to the young wheal plants, it gives them such a healthy and vigorous start, that they readily appropriate all the lood which is fur- nished for their organs both by the soil and the manure, and the whole crop is soon out of harm’s way. it is our opinion, that "by the aid of highly stimulating manures, w'e may be able in the South to grow as many bushels of wheat as do the northern farmers, with the great aavanlage that in actual nutriment, five bushels of our wheat will be equal in value to six bushels of the best northern wheat. The wheat crop in the grain growing portions ot South Carolina is not subject to more vicissitudes than it is in the North — for their crops are equally ravaged and blighted by Hessian fly, rust and smut. In fact, if we w'ere to make the comparison, we would see that though they take great pains in . cul'ivating this grain, it is farlrom being a cer- tain crop, and that the reverse is the case with us; for with no preparation it usually makes a lair average crop. We have shown the influence of climate on thisgrain in inducing the produc- tion of great nutrition, and also the effect ot ar- tificial fertilizers ot the soil. In our next we propose to give our actual experiments, made with a view to test the effect both of soil and manure on grain brought from the wheatgrow- ing region of New York. Fiom the Providence Transcript. Butter Making. The annexed article is Irom one of our most experienced and intellectual agriculturists. Ol his success! ul practice we can attest, as we never saw finer butter, noi even in Philadel- phia, thi-n we have eaten at his hospitable man- sion. — Milk Apartments, rf-c — The milk cellar should be deep, vtrell ventilated, and dry; the bottom covered with stone flagging. Bricks will ab- sorb milk and other liquids that may fall upon them, and will soon contract mildew, the smell ol which, like the odor of cheese, vegetables, fish, or foul air of any kind, will be imparled to the cream and butter. Over this cellar should stand the dairy room, with shelves to set the milk upon in cool weather; the cellar is to he used during the extremes of heat and cold. The temperature of the milk apartment, if possible, should never be above 65 nor bt'low 45d. Set kettles should not stand in the dairy-room ; nei- ther should cheese-making, nor cleansing milk- vessels be done there, but in a convenient room near by. Cream may be kept good much longer, if it be kept in a white oak vessel, with a tight cover, and a faucet or tap near the bottom, to draw off the milk when it settles, before the customary THE SOJ-l'HERN CULTIVATOR. 151 daily siirring. The quality of the butter is much improved by this management. It the milk be not drawn off, and it be churned with the cream, the butter will be longer in coming, and it will show specks ot sour curd, taste like cheese, and will soon bee ime rancid- Butter will come quickly at all seasons ot the year, it the cream be ot a temperature of from 60® to 70°; to this end, use hot water in winter, and ice in summer; but never add either to the cream, in or out of the churn. Salt. — Pure sa It chrystalizes into perfect cubes. All other forms of chrystalization found in com- mon salt, arise from impurities; those of a needle .shape in Liverpool bag, or blown salt, indicate the presence of lime, magnesia, &c. — One greatcause of the failure of making good butter, may be traced to the use of impure salt. Rock salt, and the large lumps of Turk’sisland, washed, dried, and finely pulverized, are pre- ferable to all other kinds, being highly pre- servative, and hardening the butter, so that it will be sooner ready to work over in warm weather. The Liverpool bag or blown salt, the Salina salt in small bags from New-York, and the fine part of every kind of imported salt, contain a great portion ofimpurity. Less than one ounce of pure salt, is sufficient for a pound oi butler, many put in but haltan ounce. In the manufacture ot cheese, a preference is sometimes given to Liverpool bag or blown salt. This contains salts of lime and magnesia, which attract moisture from the air, and have the desirable effect of softening the cheese, and the pungent bitter taste which they impart to it, is an improvement in the estimation ofsome. General Remarks. — The cieam should not rise more than 36 hours; it should be sweet when taken off, and sweet when churned; yet there is a degree of maturity to be acquired bv keeping. The kegs for packing butter should be made of while oak, bilging in the form of casks for the more perfect seclusion of air, and conve- nience of transportation. If the butter is not to be sent to a warm climate, or a foreign market, let the bilging kegs have moveable covers, to accommodate inspection; they should be soak- ed in strong brine, made also of pure salt, in order that justice may be done to the purchasers in tare, and to save the butter from beingspoiled for one or two inches deep all around, from its contact with dry wood. In case the wood is anything but white oak, there is danger of its giving an unpleasant taste to the whole. For the convenience of families, the size should vary from twenty-five to fifty pounds. A keg of butter is expr sed to the air for a long time, while on broach in a small family, and the bottom, in consequence, becomes rancid. The consumer will cheerfullv pay an extra price for one hundred pounds ofbutter. racked in four kegs instead of one. No salt should be put on the sides, bottom or between the layers If the kegs are made with covers, put a cloth over the ton, and cover that with pure fine salt. Keep a cloth wet with strong brine over the butler, while the keg is filling, to exclude the air. The practice ot washing butter is not approved of in Europe; it destroys its fragrance and sweetness by dissolving the sugar of milk, which it is said is al ways present in good butler. It is practiced in Holland, when the article is designed for exportation to India; then the operation is usually oerformed with cold, strong, limpid brine made of pure salt and water; water that has lime in it will not answer, as the lime is readily absorbed by the butter. To exclude the air more eflectuallv during the process of puding down, let a little melted sweet butter be run into the cavity, where the bottom, head and staves come together, then after each layer is completed, let the dairy- woman pass her finger round so as to press the butler hard and close against the side. Don’t be prevented by shame from asking questions when ignorant, was the remark of a celebrated Persian Philosopher. From lh« N. Y. Shipping and Commercial List. Cotton Crop of the United States for the year ending August 31, 1846. NEW OBLEANS. Export : To Foreign ports.. Coastwise Slock on hand, 1st Sept., 1846. ...... Deduct : Stock on hand, Isl Sept. 1815 Rec’d from Mobile. Rec’d from Florida. Rec’d from Texas.. Export : To Foreign ports. . . Coastwise Stock on hand, Isl Sept. 1846 Deduct ; Stock 1st Sept 1S45. Reo’dfrom wrecked ships Ree’d from Texas.. Rec’d from N. O’lns. Esport : To Foreign ports.. Coast s'ise Stock on hand 1st Sept. 1816 301,735 115,698 7,476 Bales. 1,061,189 ■.24,045 425,109 Total. 1846. 1,037,144 929,126 Deduct : Slock on hand 1st Sept. 1645 609 1,275 666 5931 FLORIDA. 49,981 j 90,215 3,143 421,966 517,196 1,068 1 141,2841 Export : To Foieign ports.. Coastwise Stock on hand Isi September, 1846.. Export Pm Savan’h: To Foreign ports — Uplands Sea Islands Coastwise— Upl’ds . Sea Islands TEXAS. 11,324! 14,184 l,50ol GEORGIA. 1001 141,184 27.003 133,693 60 330 8,472 106,229 2,225 186,306 Burnt in Savannah. 1,848 Stock in Savannah 1st Sept , 1846. .. . 5,922 Stock in Augusta & Hamburg, Isl Sep- tember, 1846 9,906 203.982 Deduct : Slock in Savannah and Augusta, Ist Sept., 1845 9,071 SOUTH CARO LINA. Exp I’m Charleston To Foreign ports — Uplands 160.233 Sea Islands 19,527 Coastwise — Upl’ds . 87,841 Sea Islands...... 476 194,911 295,440 Exp. f’m Qeorget’n, To New York Slock in Charles- lon, 1st Sepiem- ber, 1846 Deduct : Stock in Charleston 1st Sept., 1345. . . . Rec’d Pm Savannah Rec’d from Florida, Key West, &c... 268,077 3,852 8,709 10.879 16,397 1,957 260,638 29,233 1 251,405 426,361 NORTH CAROLINA. Export ; Coastwise. 10,637 1 12,487 Exports : To Foieign ports.. Coastwise Manufactured.. . .. Slock on hand 1st September, 1846.. Deduci : Slock on hand, Ist September, 1845. Received at Phila- delphia and Balti- more, overland.. Total crop of the U States Total crop of 1846, as above Crop of last year... Decrease, 1,308 3,505 10,787 100 15,700 2,418 13,282 25,200 3,000 2,100,537 2,394,503 2,100,537 2,394,503 298,9tK GROWTH. Crop of 182G-7, b’s 937.000 1836-7. 1827- -8 1837-8. 1828-9 18^-9 1829-30 . .. 1839-40 18:30-1 1840-1, 1831-2 987^477 1841-2. 1832-3 1833-4 1843-4. 1834-5 ...1,254,328 1844. 5. 1835 -6 1845-6. .bales, 1,422,930 1,801.497 1.360,5;3'2 2,177,835 1,634,945 1,683.574 2,378,875 2,030,409 2,394,603 2,100^37 CONSUMPTION. Total crop of the U State*, 2,100,5.57 Add- Stocks on hand at the com- mencemept of the year, Isl iSept., 1815 : III the /Southern ports a),783 Ill the Northern pons 67,687 98,420 2,198,967 Deduct Iheiefrom— The export to Foreign ports Less Foreign included 1.666,792 349 1,666,443 i8tock on hand at the close of the year, 1st <8eptem- ber. 1846 : 41,033 In the Southern ports..... In ihe Northern ports 66,089 1,848 347 107,lffi Burntat Piiiladelphia 2,795 1,776,360 600 Taken for home use 422,697 Quantity consumed by and in the hands of Man- ufacturers. 1845-6.... bales, 18:36-7 IS35- ' . . .bales 222.540 . 2:16,7X3 184:3- 4..,, 346.744 1.84-2-3 3:5.129 1834-5 . 216 883 1833- 4 . 196,413 1841-2 267,850 ] 183’ -3 . 194,412 1340--1 297,2'-8 1831-2 . 173,800 1839-40 295.19-3 1833 9 276.018 IN.5II..I . 182.142 1829-30 . 126,612 1837-8 246,063 1828-9 . 118,853 By the foregoing statement, it will be seen, that the crop falfS short of iast year’s by 293,966 bales — add to this the quantity pul Jown for Texas, and the actual difference is 320,974. Our estimate nf the quantity taken for consumption, does not include any Colton manufactured in the iSiates south and west of Virginia, nor any in that Slate, except ill the vicinity of Petersburg and Rich- mond. The quantity of new Colton received at the shipping pons up to the first insi. amounted only to about 200 bales, against 7,500 bales last year. Philadelphia Its high flavor, and the source whence this is derived. — My Dear Sir: — During one of your late visits to Philadelphia, we had some conversation relative to the rare qualities of Philadelphia butler, which, though good at all times, is at one seae.m distinguished by a peculiarly high and delightful flavor, not to be found, in the same degree, so far as I oan learn, in butter made in any other part oi the Union. I told you that 1 thought I had discover- ed the sou-me of this peculiarly grateful flavor, and now undertake to ledeem a promise made to write you on the subject. It is only at one season of the year that the flavor is in great- est perfe tion, and hence our housekeepers call it ‘ .May Butter,’ and sometimes ‘ Grass Butter.’ The limits of the season of highest flavor may be set from a 'out the middle of April to the middle of June. Now it is precisely during this time that the old, unplowed meadows and pas- ture fields, in the vicinityof Philadelphia, abound with a species of grass so highly odoriferous as to have obtained the name of Sweet-scented Ver- nal Grass. Botanists call it Antho.vanthum odor- atum. The scent somewhat resembles that of vanilla. It grows about a foot or eighteen inch- es high, rising above the surrounding grass. Its stem is tery small and round, with a few long and slender leaves. Its odor will alone be sufii- cient to distingui h it from all other grasses found in our pastures. When in blossom, the air is often hijihly charged with its scent, and at this time I seldom ride into the country without gathering a hand nil of the grass to enjoy its rich perfumes at leisure, and perhaps store it away in a drawer. As it is so very forward In its growth, so does it show the earliest signs of decay. About the middle of June the fields and meadows where it abounds assume a yellowish appearance foom the dying of the stems of the firs: growth. The cattle press these aside to get at greener herbage, and now the high flavor ot our butter declines. The Sweet-scented Vernal Grass is a native of Europe, whence it has doubtless been intfo- dueed into the vicinity of Philada. — JPar. 152 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. ®l)c SDutl)ern ^ulttuatov. AUGUSTA, GA. VOI.. IV.. NO. 10 OCTOBESB, 1S46. THOSE TWENTY THOUSAND SUBSCRIBERS!!! STILL THEY COME ! 1 It wotild be highly gratifying to us, if our limits yi-ould per- mit us, to copy the letters of all those who enlist under the banner of our lamented friend McDonald, but as they would occupy too much space, we must content ourselves with on- ly a few of them, and enroll the names of the others. We had hoped that ere this, the list would have swelled to a much greater number, and, though disappointed in this, we are cheered with the feeling which the proposition has awak- ened, and we doubt not that hundreds wiU flock to the stand- ard during the month of October. Let the friends of Agri- culture, in every coimty and neighborhood, arouse and buckle on their armor in her cause and the march of improvement will be onward — onward— onward ! Let us then have “ a long pull, a strong pull, and a puU al- together,” during the month of October, and our cause will triumph as certainly as truth triumphs over error, or as indus- try and economy wiU outstrip indolence and prodigality in the race for a competence. We have not space to say more. Col. A. MCDONALD, Eufaula, Ala. E. McCROAN, Louisville, Ga. T. W. RUCKER, Elberton, Ga. C. DOUGHERTY, Athens, Ga. G. B. HAYGOOD, Watkinsville, Ga. WM. T. DeWITT, Hopewell, Ala. H. E. CHITTY, Henry Co., Ala. WM. CUNNINGHAM, Monroe Co., Ala. C. B. ZUBER, White Sulphur Springs, Ga. J. C. HENDERSON, Macon Co., Ala. JAS. J. BANKS, Enon, Ala. Gen. A. W. GREER, Taliaferro Co. SINGLETON HARRIS, “ J. S. LASSETER. “ JARED L. TURNER, Greene Co. J. P. C. WHITEHEAD, Waynesboro, Ga. E. F. HURT, Macon Co., Ala. B. P. BORUM, “ WM. B. S. GILMER, Chambers Co., Ala. JOHN A. CALHOUN, Eufaula, Ala., JOEL HURRT, Crawford, RusseUOo., Ala. GEORGE SEABORN, Pendleton Dist., S. C. MARTIN McNAIR, Richmond Co., Ga. Several articles prepared for this No. are unavoidably omitted. Ourselves. We thank our correspondent ‘Zachary’ for the good opinion he expresses of the Southern Cultivator. Commendations from such a quarter are worth something. We hope Zachary may be induced to con- tinue his contributions towards the advance- ment of Agricultural improvement. One who is so capable of giving, as ball-players say, good licks on our side, should by no means withhold them. He may, by using the rasp himself, and by inducing others to u.se it too, be the means of doing great good. If Zachary will look over the editorials of the Cultivator, he cannot fail to notice that we have used the rasp pretty freely on divers occasions. But still, on looking back our- selves, we are not entiiely satisfied with what we have done. This short-coming, however, is not so much our fault as it is that of the pub- lic. Our subscription list has been too small. We candidly confess our inability to preach, with becoming energy, to a thin congregation. Dean Swift might go through the church ser- vice with all proper fervor, with nobody pre- sent but “Dearly beloved Roger.” But every one is not Dean Swift. He stood alone and apart from his race in many things besides preaching. There is always wanting in such cases, with common men, that secret something — mesmerism, or some other ism, call it what you please— emanating from a large assembly, that is absolutely necessary to get the steam up in one addressing such assembly. And this is as true of vvriting as of speaking, ff, therefore, the husbandmen of the South want the Culti- vator to exercise an influence commensurate with the wants of Southern Agriculture, they must, one and all, earnestly set about getting the 20,000 subscribers proposed by our deceas- ed friend, Col. McDonald, Apples. Our mountain farmers ought now to be making their arrangements to supply our South- ern cities with apples. If they can be persuaded to pursue their own true interest, such a thing as a Northern apple will not be seen in Charles- ton, Savannah, Mobile, Montgomery, Colum- bus, Macon, Augusta, or Columbia. But to supply these markets they must prepare for them a marketable article; not such stuff as they now offer forsale— deficient, not in quality, for Southern apples can’t be beat any where, but in the way in which they are handled. Itseems as if they were beat offthe tree with a pole, and tossed into a wagon pretty much as if they were stones. The consequence is, they come to mar- ket so bruised and injured every way, as to be hardly fit food for pigs. Indeed, a thrifty Yankee farmer would not give such apples to his pigs. But if they are properly handled, no- thing that can be brought to market will com- mand the cash more readily. And if our moun- tain farmers do not take advantage of their posi- tion in this respect, they deserve to be condemn- ed to undergo the penally of never once more hearing the exhilarating jingle of the almighty dollar. In the American AgricuUurisl fur September it is recommended that apples intended to be preserved for winter and spring use, should remain on the trees until quite ripe, which usu- ally lakes place at the coming of the first heavy frosts. They should then be plucked from the trees by hand, in a fair day, and packed up immediately in casks, in alternate layers of dry sand, plaster, chaff, saw'dust, or bran, and con- veyed to a cool dry place, as soon as possible. The sand or sawdust may be dried in the heat of summer, or may be baked in an oven at the time required to be used. The peculiaradvan- tagesarising from packing apples in sand, are explained and commented upon as follows, by the late Mr. Webster, author of the American Dictionary of the English Language, fst. The sand keeps the apples from the air, which is es- sential to their preservation; 2d. The sand checks the evaporation or perspiration of the apples, thus preserving in them their full fla- vor— at the same time any moisture yielded by the apples is absorbed by the sand — so that the apples are kept dry and all mustiness is pre- vented. My pippins, Mr, V/. says, in May and June, are as fresh as when first picked.— Even the ends of the stems look as if just sepa- rated frem the twigs. 3. The sand is equally a preservative from frost, rats, &c. But after the extreme heat of June takes place, all apples speedily lose their flavor, and become insipid. The fine apples we have seen, brought from our Southern mountains, if they were cared lor according to Mr. Webster’s directions, could be readily sold, in March and April, incur Southern cities, at 6 to 9 dollars per barrel of 3 bushels. Is not this sufficient inducement lor Southern apple growers to bestir themselves'? And then there is Apple Butter — a more deli- cious or wholesome article — wholesome be- cause simple— never was set before a hungry man. Here is the way they make it. The next time we go to the mountains we hope to see it on every table. Pennsylvania Apple Butter. — To make thisaccording to German law, the host should, in the autumn, invite his neighbors, particu- larly the young men and maidens, to make up an apple butter party. Being assembled, let three bushels of fair sweet apples be pared, quartered, and the cores removed. Mean- while, let two barrels of new cider be boiled down to one-halt. When this is done, commit the prepared apples to the cider and let the boil- ing go on briskly and systematically. But to accomplish the main design, the parly must take turns at stirring the contents without cessation, so that they may not become attached to the sides of the vessel and burn. Let the stirring go on till the amalgamated cider and apples be- come as thick as hasty pudding, then throw in powdered allspice, when it may be consider- ed as finished and committed to the pots lor fur- ther use. This is Apple Butter; and it will keep sweet lor many years. It is a capital ar- ticle for the table. — N. Y. Mechanic. A New Grass for the South. As our people abhor crab grass or Bermuda grasssomuch, perhaps we ought to congratu- late them that, in Oregon, there is a grass that will no doubt suit them exactly. It will suit them in this, that it is none of your common every-day articles, growing at home, and invit- ing us hourly to avail ourselves of their good qualities; but a real foreign article, coming from over the hills and far away, and therefore, by Southern rule and Southern practice, enti- tled to a preference over everything domestic. The Rev. Mr. Spalding, in an account of the manifold blessings that are showered upon the inhabitants of Oregon, recently published, gives an account of this grass. From his very irn- peifect description, we judge it to be the same with the famous muskeet grass of Texas and Mexico ; the same grass on which the vast herds of buffalo that range the western and southwes- tern prairies, live and thrive so wonderfully. If it be the muskeet, or even if it be another sort, and comes up to Mr. Spalding’s estimate of its good qualities, no effort should be spared to introduce it on Southern plantations. Who will undertake it ? It won’t cost either much trouble or money; “The country is one extensive prairie, except the mountains, which are covered with several species of pine, cedar and fir. The prairies are rolling, and with the exception of a narrow belt THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 153 ot sand and sedge upon thq Columbia and por- tions of the Snake river, are everywhere cover- ed with the bunch grass, which, from observa- tion, I judge to be a richer, heartier food for an- imals than corn, oats and the best pasture of the States. It is a fine solid stalk, growing two feet high, with fine leaves, holds its freshness through the winter, I mean the old stock, which mingled with the young growth which usually springs fresh in the fall, forms a food for ani- mals through the winter, preferable to the best hay. Horses and oxen perform labor at all sea- sons upon this grass simply without the aid of grain, which I now think disposes the animal system to various diseases. \Vhen 1 pack, I usually travel from 35 to 40 miles a day, each horse carries 200 pounds, rest an hour at noon without taking down the packs, camp sun two hours high, hobble horses, drive up in the morn- ing at sunrise, find horses will endure such la- bor for 25 or 30 days, resting of course on the Sabbath, upon this grass without in juringthem. Their wind is evidently betterthan that of horses fed on grain and hay. I have rode from Dr. Whitman’s station to this, 125 miles, in 19 hours, starting at nine o’clock at night, driving a spare horse before for change, but this was no advantage, for I find it is more fatiguing to a horse to be drove than to be rode.” Agricultural Education. In the last volume of the Cultivator, we very earnestly urged upon the Legislatures of the Southern States the necessity of providing, in our State Colleges, the means of enabling our young men to become acquainted with the principles of Agricultural science. Well, what was the result ? The legislatures met — wrangled their usual time about party politics, passed laws for private ends, or, perhaps, for the benefit of what they call the learned professions ; but not the first syllable was uttered, so far as we know, in reference to enlightening, eleva- ting and ennobling that profession whose great business it is to convert earth, air and water into bread, meat and clothifig. And so we have been left, for another year, to mourn over the besotted stupidity that has for ages past con- trolled the destinies of these Southern States— the fairest portion, by far, of Uncle Sam’s he- ritage. 1h Yankee-land it is quite otherwise. The people there know which side of their bread is buttered. Indeed, they have, both in matters of trade, and of national legislation, treated us very much as the huzzy is represented in the song as treating her poor devil of a husband; they have made us butter their bread for them on both sides and all around the edges, and have left us to get along, as we best can, on "their kff off crusses” As an instance of their policy of making money out of us, and serving them- selves at the same time— boih very commenda- ble purposes, so far as they are concerned, but most disgraceful to us — we notice the esta- blishment of a professorship of Agricultural Chemistiy in Yale College. They know very- well that every planter in the Southern States, who cares properly for the welfare of his chil- dren, will have them well educaied, if he can ; especially in scientific Agriculture, now that the public attention is beginning to be directed that way. And as Yale College has always been very much frequented by the sons of Souihern planters, by furnishing this additional inducement to go there, we have no doubt the number will be greatly increased ; — thus adding largely to the millions of dollars annually spent abroad by the South for what, on every princi- ple of patriotism, and of sound economy, ought to be provided at home. But let our Solomons of the South alone — let them rest in their glory. For the one party, that Polk was made President, for the other, that Clay was earnestly sought to be made so, is glory enough in their day and generation:— far more precious and enduring glory, than to have originated and perfected any measure whose object is to develope the resources of the coun- try, and scatter plenty over a smiling land. At a late meeting of the Corporation of Yale College, the following resolutions were passed: Whereas, It has been represented to this Corporation, that a benefactor of the College proposes to give five thousand dollars for the endowment ol a professorship of Agricultural Chemistry and of Vegetable and Animal Phy- siology, provided that §20,000 be raised for that purpose : Resolved^ That there be established in this College a professorship ol Agricultural Che- mistry and of Vegetable and Animal Physiolo- gy, for the purpose of giving instruction to graduates and others not members of the under- graduated classes; and that the Corporation will now proceed to elect a professor of those branches of science, that while effects to com- plete the endowment are in progress, he may devote himself to studies preparatory to his en- tering on the duties ol that offije — it being un- derstood and provided that the support of this professor is in no case to be chargeable to the existing funds or resources of the College. Resolved, That there be also established a professorship of practical chemistry, for the purpose of giving instruction to others than members of the undergraduate classes, in re- spect to the application of chemistry and the kindred sciences to the manufacturing arts, to the exploration of the resources of the country, and to other practical uses; and that a profes- sor be now appointed to that office, whose com- pensation, till other provision can be matte, shall be derived exclusively from fees for in- struction and fur other purposes. Resolved, That President Day, and Professors Silliman, King.sley, Olmsted, W’’oolsey, and Salisbury, be a Commiitee to report at the next annual meeting of the Corporation, or any in- tervening meeting which may be convenient, their opinion of the expediency of arranging under a disiinct department of the universiiy, those courses of instruction which arCj or ma_v be given to others than members of undergra- duate classes, and which are not included in the departments of Theology, Law and Medicine, and that if in their opinion such a department is expedient, they report such arrangements and regulations as may he requisite for the full or- ganization of the department. Southern Indepeiideuce. Step by step— slowly, though su'^ely, we hope — ^are the people relieving themselves from their hitherto abject dependance on others lor neces- saries and luxuries of iife, which they ought to produce at home. Canal fi jur is now seldom heard of in our Souiliern interior cities. The demand forfiour is supplied by an article quite as good, in flour manufactured at home, from wheal grown on out soil. So, also, will it soon be, we hope, with everything else tha' can be grown on Southern soil or manuiactlired by Souihern industry. So is it already with lime as well as flour. So let it speedily be — as .speedily as can be— for moral revolutions al- ways proceed slowly, often only by generations — with potatoes, apples, hay, beef, pork, car- riages, saddles, bridles, shoes, plows, hoes, spades, &c., &c,, &c., &c., yea, even down to hops and axe -handles. Just to think of bring- ing hops from INew Yorkto the interior o! Geor- gia, as we have known to be done ; and hay from the North round the Florida Cape, through the Gulf, and up the river to Tuscaloosa 1 — why n is almost enough to make a saint swear. Mr. Force is entitled to the thanks of every friend of the South for his effort to make us in- dependent in the article of cheese : Cherokee Cheese. — We copy the following from the last Coosa Journal, published at Rome, Floyd county, in this State; “ We have received from Mr. R. J. Johnson a specimen of the cheese manufactured at Mr. Force’s Dairy, in Chattooga county. We are a great lover of cheese, and we pronounce this most excellent, equal to any manufactured i:i the United States. The taste is very fine and the color exceedingly rich. Mr. Force has gone into the business u, on the right principle, and will do the country much service by its in- troduction in our midst. The cheese is equal in every respect to the Northern, and can be made here at much less expense, as the cows al- most all the year subsist entirely upon the range. Mr. Force informs us that he will ma- nufacture this year twelve or fifteen thousand pounds. Opiiiious of the Press. Among the numerous flattering notic s of the Southern Cultivator, which have ap- peared in our exchanges, for all of which we repeat our acknowledgments, the publishers have culled the three following, to which they beg to call the alteniion of the reader. We should certainly be insensible to the good opin- ion of the public, if we did not feel highly flat- tered by such notices from those who are so competent to pass upon the merits of our publi- cation. It was our purpose to have extended our remarks in introducing these encomiums from our brethren of the press, but the crowded state of our columns forbids. Lei the planters read and weigh their contents, ani decide how far the opinions of such intelligent, practical men should influence their goodopinions of the Southern Cultivator: Fcom the Souihern Planter. Dollar Papers. — A newspaper can only be furnished at the low price of one dollaf per an- num when it is very extensively circulated, and. there are very few regions of the Southern coun- try that will aflo.rd a patronage sufficient to jus- tify a paper at such a price. In Georgia this fact has been demonst.ated by the proposed dis- continuance cf the “ SouTHE-RN Cultivator,” one of the best agricultural papers in the Union, which will be stopped, probabl}', for want of pa- tronage. When this fact was announced in the paper itself, Col. Alexander McDonald, of Eu- faula, Ala., with that public spirit for which he is so remarkable, determined to make an effort lor the support ol a journal so justly e.steemed. He proposed to make one of a thousand indi- viduals who w'ould procure and pledge them- selves for twenty sub-scribers to the paper. Other gentlemen have followed suit, and there is much reason to hope that the effort will be crowned with success. Those who appreciate the benefit of agricultural papers are deeply in- terested in extendingtheircirculaiion. No man will publish a doll.ar paper in the Souihern coun- try with the patronage usually bestowed upon them, except as a secondary thing, and in a large majority of instances we believe they hardly 154 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. pay expense.-^. Either ihe cheap system imist be ahandoneci in the S.mih or its advocates must sustain it by their exertions. Tinjot ourfi iends who wish to back Col. McDonald in his lauda- ble enterprise can address the S"Uthern Culti- vator, Augusta, Geo. We shall be happy it by this no' ice we can do anything lo sustain so able and so worthy a contemporary. From the IS'orth (Carolina Farmer. “ The Southern Cultivator ” — This is the title oi a most excellent agricultural paper, pub- lished monthly by Messrs J. W. & W. S. Jones, in Augusta, Geo , and edited by James Camak, Esq , ol' Athens, at the very low price ot one dollar a year. The August number comes to us filled with interesting and substan- tial matter, patticularly suited to the Southern larmer. We should be glad to see this paper, as a won hy co-laborer in the great cause of agri- culture in the South, extensively patronized in North Carolina ; and it is gratilying to observe that some noble spirits in Georgia are exerting themselves in the most liberal manner to extend its circulation. Col Alexander McDonald has, with praiseworthy zeal, come forward and pro- posed to be one oi a thousand who will each lur- nish twenty subscribers to the next volume ot that i.aper, desiring to raise twenty thousand sub'cribers to the work. Truly does the Culti- vator remai k, “ the pr"position is a noble one, designed to promote the interests and prosperity ol the whole people ot the South, and is, there- fore, eminently worthy of so public spirited and enterprising an agriculturist as Col. McDon- ald.” All who wish to unite with him in thus increasing the circulation of that valuable pe- riodical, are requested to send their names to the publishers by the first October, that they may make suitable preparations, it the enter- prise succeeds, for corresponding improve- ments. From the Soaih Carolinian, Southern Cultivator, for August.— We greet every succee-ling number of this work with increasing interest. It should be in the hands of every planter South of Virginia. An Alabama planter. Col. McDonald, of Eufaula, proclaims himself “oneol a thousand,” to pro- cure twenty subscribers each, for volume 5; and we understand that they still come in such numbers as to give hopes that at least 5,000 sub- scribers will be secured. This is the best evi- dence we can give of the estimation in which the work is held by those who know it. We might add, that the able editor, Mr. Camak, frequently extracts the ho.rd sensed articles of “ Cracker” and otheis Irom the South Caroli- nian, which is another testimonial of his edito- rial skill. dDriginal Communications. Agricultural Reading— Rasping--Perma» iieiit Improvement. Mr. Editor— I hope by this time the patrons of the Cultivator have so far swelled your sub- scription list as to secure the continued publica- tion ol the work. It is worth iwenlv times ils cost, and needs only to be known to be read bv every farmer and housekeeper in the ?tate. Un- fortunately, too many among us do not in- dulge themselves in the habit of reading anything; and strange as it may seem, are willing to rear up their children as desti- tute as themselves of knowledge and a taste for books. But the strangest of all our pre- judices is the aversion which some respectable persons have to what is tritely called “Book Farm ing.” The mechanic arts, Irom the high- estorder ol house building down to the tanning of leather and dyeing of cloths, all have, in this age, the benefits of literature— all have derived the greatest improvements from the labors of the press. All classes of mankind acknowledge new and improved methods of conducting the businessot their respective trades and professions except the reluc ant farmer, who is, or pretends to be, qii ite satisfied that the teachings of his fa- ther and his own experience have pul him in possession of everj thing that need be known by a tiller ol the soil 1 Some of my brethren ot the nlow may believe this of themselves, for they are in general a conceited, headstrong set; but many of them do not, whatever they may say The truth is, that reading any book or paper, lor the want ol practice, gives them a good deal of trouble; and what isstill less creditable, they really grudge the pittance that a book or paper costs. The contributors to your monthlv sheet have not, 1 think, written as much in a spirit ol sharp criticism as the country requires. Reports of success and failure in croppingoperations have doubtless done much good, but reviews of the general condition of ourplantations could hard- ly fail to suggest and probably introduce iinpor- tant changes. We are not apt to court the company of fault-finders, yet it must be admit- ted that one of them is worth a score of ‘’mealy mouthed” flaile.ers We want men, and wo- men loo, who «ill frankly and honestly poi t out our errors and short-comings. It has been said that the gentler sex are more addicted to such deeds, ol might orbv kindness, than ours— and if true, it may go far to account for the fact, which is, I think, incontestible, that housekeep- ing in Georgia exhibits the fruits of far more industry, skill and taste than farm-keeping Now if this superiority ol the former is to be ac- counted for by reference to that “freedom of speech” to which ladies are by some supposed to have an inherent proneness, why should not the rongherhalf of mankind profit by good exam- ples, and in strains of whf>lesome censure, give becoming license to their tongues and pens? Be assured, Mr. Editor, we are much in want of faultfinders; audit you cannot contrive to draw some ol your correspondents into this ser- vice, you must take up the rasp yourself, and make us sluggards feel it to the quick. If possi- ble, awaken in the plowmen of Georgia some of that high-toned ambition, that keen sense of the useful and the beautiful, for which their wives and daughters are so justly distinguish- ed. It is qui‘e iu-possible for any observer to com- pare the modes and practices pursued on most plantations in this State with those of older and more improved countries, without being struck with the wide difference, nay, the prominent re- pugnancies that such comparison presents. In one, we have progressive regeneration — im- provement infertility, wealth and health — in the other, prospe' tive poverty and degradation. Why is this so ? Certainly not because this country is less favored by nature with soil, cli- mate and commercial facilities. The reverse of this is true. What then is the matter? A wilful submission to the consequences of bad husbandry- a systematic waste ol the means in- dispensable to thrilty cropping and the perma- nent improvement of our real estates. We seem to ha ve forgot that everything in this world wears out by use ; and that every thing we find it necessary to use must, from time to time, un- dergo repairs. A rich field is as certainly ruin- ed by bad management, exhausting crops with- out manure, &c., as a well-conditioned team by incessant work and deficient forage. The con- sequences are precis -Iv what ought to have been expected. The proprietor of five hundred acres in Georgia may sell it for Irom ' wo to five dollar^; per acre— but the same numberof acres in Connecticut or Massachusetts readily com- mands from thirty loseventy-fivedollars an acre. The Northern farm is four times as rich as it once was; the Southern reduced almost to bar- renness. The Northern farm, alter paying the expense of annual, regular manuring, yields Irom six to twenty per cent, net profit, while the galled fields of the Southern but parsimonious Iv supply ihe wants of an economical family. Our whole progress has been made in a wrong direction, and nothing can save us but a coun- termarch. When it shall become the settled purpose of planters and farmers, so to conduct their business as to augment the real estate p^rt of their capita), by aivins. every near increased fertility to their fields, the country will soon be- come renovated, and Agriculture vvill be the same attractive and-thrifty pursuit hf^re which it is known to he in older, richer and moreen- lightened countries. Zachart. Col. McDonald’s Proptislfioii— Coming to the Rescue. Mr. Camak: — In the September No. of the Southern Cultivator I perceive the announce- ment of the death of Col. lexandeb McDon- ald, as taken from the Shield ot this place ; and accompanying it, an appeal to the friends of Ag- riculture, to- sustain his proposal “to be one of a thousand t > raise twenty thousand subscribeis for the Southern Cultivator ” As a memlier of the same Society to which Col McDonald belonged, a d as one who has fought many bat- tles with him in the good cause of Agriculture, in this new part of the world, I asl< of you to sub- stitute my name for his, as he has been called from his field of labor I make this request, in the absence of any other applicant for the same post. My professional labors, added td my farm- ing pursuits, so fuily occupy my time as to pre- vent me from that full devotion to the cause of Agriculture which characterized Col. McDon- ald, and I would, therefore, cheerfully yield to any other member of our Society the honor of the post which I ask. But as I fear no o her name will be offered from this Society, to fill his place, I make a tender of my services, and claim to take his place. The prospects of our cotton crops ire truly de- plorable in this section of the country. A short time since our hopes were high, and we were cal- culating on a full average crop. But now, no one calculates on more than two-thirde of an average crop, while many insist on its being not more than a half crop. I am of opinion that we cannot make more than two-thirds of an average crop ; and if theboil-worm and caterpillar sh juld continue their present ravages much longer, we must fall below this standard If this estimate be correct, and the rest of the cotton region suf- fer to the same extent with us, the crop of 1846 will not exceed 1,700,000 bales— assuming an average crop, now, to be 2,50fi,000 bales. If we have good reason to be disappointed, on account of our cotton crops, we have, fortunate- ly for us, good reason to rej jice over one of the most abundant provision crops that we have ever raised in this section of country. If we were free from debt we would, there ore, have no rea- son to complain of the results of the year. But, unfortunately, many of our citizens are still in debt, and unless the price of cotton rises con- siderably they must be greatly depressed. With sentiments of respect, yours, &c., John A, Calhoun. Eufaula, Ala., Sept. 5, 1846 More of the Right Spirit. Hr- Camak: — It affirds me much pleasure to see that several gentlemen have responded to the noble proposition made by the late and much la- mented Coi. A. Met ONALD. I wish that the number may increase until you will be under the necessity of issuing “ an extra,” in order to make room for their names. Prom a communi- cation in the April No. it will be seen that I have all along entertained the belief that the friends of the paper would not suffer it to go down for want of patronage. My confidence in their ability and willingness to sustain it is still unshaken, and now that you have told us “how many sub- scribers you want,” you may expect soon to re- ceive names enough to enable you to send out a paper “ as good as the best in the land — plates and all.” I love my native Sta‘e, and while I wish her citizens prosperity and happiness, I am proud to see that my adopted State does not in- tend to be di.stanced in the race. May a noble emulation spring up between them. Whenever the people at large can be induced to read good Agricultural papers, the work of improvement will certainly commence. V^ou have furnished a good paper, and it should be the business of its friends to extend the cir- culation. Friends of the cause! come up to the work. From my own experience, I know that you can do much. Take your little book and pencil along, whenever you ride out, and when you meet a friend ask him for a dollar, and tell him that you intend it ps a special benefit to himself. In this way you can do much — THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 155 and you will rarelv meet with a refusal. At any rate, you will have (what many of you have not had before) a clear conscience, in this matter. Try it. The wrter in this way, sent more than “twenty” subscribers for the year 1646. andintenus, if life and health are spared, to try to do better for 1847. As you want something definite to act upon, Mr Editor, put me 'own fot twenty, and I will increase the number, ifl can. Allow me to thank Mr. Fa.rb,ae and Major Rose for answers to my inquiries about their crushers ; Maj. R.’s were private. Respectfully, ! Joel Hurt. ; Crawford, Russell Co., Ala., Sevt. 10, 1346. | Crops in >Iississirpi"Smut in \S heat— Croup— Inquiries. 1 Mr. Cahak— Like my friend A. McDonald, j (ifl may use the term of one whom 1 know on- ! ly as a contributor to your invaluable paper,) I j quit (not plow and hoe but) spade, and mall, and | w'edse, to give vou and your readers an idea of | the prospects of the crop in this, the Eastern, part of Mississippi. Our preparations for p. ant- ing were much better than usual. Having had a short crop, the previous year, we had more time to increase our fall sowing of grains, and our bedding and fallowing, as well, also, as to | add, by clearing new lands. Thus, we have | planted a larger crop of small grain, corn and : cotton than in any previous year during the past | twelve, which period covers my lesidence in this : State. The spring and summer have been re ! markably wet, and, of course, cultivation has ' been bad and grass abundant, so much so that ! our wheat, rye, and oats have moulded, sprout- ; cd and rotted in the fields ; and what we have ■ found time to sun, makes but poor flour, and I ! fear will make very bad bread. The ridge lands on the Tombigbee and War- rior rivers have a very fine crop of corn and cot- j ton, looked well until recently, having rather j more size than usual on the first of July j but since then the boll-worm, as we term them, has I attacked the cotton, squares, blooms and bolls, j and now there is literally no cotton left on the stalk to open. Our bottom and flat lands were' drowned in the spring, and the wet summer has 1 prevented the corn and cotton on them from ma- ' king or promising to make even ahalfcrop; and ! the worm has been as destructive on what little j formation has been on them, ot blooms and bolls, i and we are now, instead of picking 150 to 20(1 ; lbs. of cotton per day, actually hoeing grass out ! of the cotton fields with our weak hands ; and I i am engaged in ditching and draining, having suf- j fered so much from the excess of r lin that I have | concluded to put all my spare time in this kind | of work, to better prepare for such a season in . future, as I have more land cleared than I can ! cultivate- i Our lands are chiefly prairie and creek bottoms, j and hauling is sj heavy in winter that I find it! best to make and haul rails in the summer, and! repair fences during winter or spring, as is gene- ! rally not the prectice in this section. But I find ; that my team is by this plan in much better con- j dition for winter and sp ing plowing, and my 1 hands less exposed, as most of our rail timber | lies in swamp and creek bottoms I would inquire of D. G., of Busby ville, Hous- i ton county, (4a., if he has tried wheat seed 'wo years old ; and if his experiment proved that it i did not smut ; and, if so, if that season the smut ■ was as abundant as usual on the farms of his i neighbors. ; I, last season, bought my seed wheat, (my ! own having smut so bad that I thought even i blue-sione, had I knowm the recipe for using it, j would not avail,) and while sowing, I learned | from an old man I accidentally met with in tra- ■ veiling, that to scald in boiling water rom 3 to ' 6 minutes on so .ving tl e worst wheat seed, and { I would hive no smut. I t-ied it, rnd am pleas- j ed to communicate to you and your readers 'hat not a head of injured wheat was this spring found in the small field of scalded seed, whiles good many heads o! the other, which 1 thounhi entirely tree from smut, were injured. I used a pot in the field and immersed a handled basket filled with wheat in the boiling water. I once used blue stone without success, but am now satisfied that it did not remain in soak long eno gh. 1 think, from the experience of the Benton County, Ala., farmers, that it should be soakec from 24 to 36 hours, to insure it a preven- j five. I While on recipes indulge me while I give you j another, for the cure of croup among children : j .Apply a warm bath ; so soon as out, cup or j bleed; then give Spanish float Indigo, sulphur i and saltpetre in molasses, the size of a cow pea ; each ; and in half an hour give castor oil, com- , mon dose. It will cause a foaming or frothing at the mouth, and sometimes nose, and vr ry generally . the child wiil have to be roused out of a sound ■ s’eep to give the oil. j Buffer me to suggest to all your readers that have not carefully read and thought on M. VV. Phillips’s letter, in your August No., to do so, and act upon its suggestions, and, my word for it, they will never repent it. I am confident, from several years experience, that rest in the heat of 'he day is not labor lost, but gained. I wish you had a contributor Irom some prairie district of country who would give his views to the public in the copious and free style of M. W. P. or friend McDonald, and if you could induce our old friends Judge Jno. Moore, or Thos. C. Billups, both o' Noxube county, or Col. Geo. H. Yocsg, of Lowndes ceunty. Miss., to engage in this work, you would much benefit some few subscribers, and add to your own list, which, at east, would afford pleasure as well as profit to my old sch i.d fellows, th Publishers. The worm in cotton is general, so far as I have heard— SO miles East, 100 North, 60 West, and 25 south of me — and I here predict that the re- ceipts at Mobile, during the next season, will be 100 to 150,000 bales short of the t ast season, un- less the crop cn the Alabama river turns out 25 per cent, over an average ; and from the opinion of travellers, the New Orleans receipts cannot be so large as the past year. Trep. Query? — Do your Georgia planters sow suc- cessfully rye and oats in the fall on corn land, without plowing in, and turn stock in to tramp and cover. If so. how long ought the stock to run on it 1 Would hogs nol destroy too much of the grain ^ and if a cold winter, would not much more be killed by freezing? I hear you have a large white-bearded wheat, is it freer from smut and rust then the common varieties of white wheat ■? T. A~ear Walwlak, Kemper Co , Miss.. Aug. 2-3, 1S46. iMiiieral Manures. Mb. Camak: — In looking over the last year’s volume of the Southern Cultiv^ator, I came across Prof. Sheppard’s Analysis of Cotton, Cot- ton Seed, &c. Professor S. ascertained that cot- ton wo 1 (fibre or lint.) contained, in its compo- sltio.n, for every ten thousandparts : Potassa 31 Lime 17 .Magnesia 3 Phosphoric .Acid 1'2 t^alphoric Acid 1 or that for every ten thousand lbs. of cotton wool raised upon a soil, it required about 60 lbs. of the above substances. In twenty-four analyses of different planta- tions in Burke county, Geo , made by Jlr. Cot- ting, taking the mean of the above substances, which he found, with the e.xception ol phospho- ric acid, of which he gives no account, we find the result asioliows : Sulphate of Potash 2 I- 10 per ct.. Lime 4f per eent., Magnesia J per cent., Nitrate Potash \ percent. The phosphoric acid, which must evidently exist in these roils, is, I presume, included in what 3Ir. C terms “solu- ble animal and vegetabie matter “ Now an acre ot land contains 43,560 square feet. Allowing the soil to be on an average six inches in depth, we shall have 21,780 cubic feet of soil, equal to about 17,820 bushel.-', or 1,140,- 480 pints, and the average specific gravity of these soils is 2^ times as great as waler, there- fore the above amount of soil would weigh 2,- 851, -200 lbs. T iking the mean of the minerals and acids found by Mr. Getting as before stated, we should have in this amount of soil ; Lime .,123.352 lbs. P.otassa 35.993 “ Magnesia “ Sulphnric Acid, (lulled wilh potassa,). 27,216 “ If 'hen an acre of this soil yield 1 COO lbs. an- nually of seed cotton for thirty years in succes sion, the amount of the above minerals would not be appreciably diminished, if the seed be re- turned to the soil. But if the seed be not re- turned to the soil, it will make no matefial differ- ence, with the exception of the phosphoric acid, of which we can make no calculation as to the amount contained in the soil. But none of these soils will produce cotton to this extent before it becom s exhausted. U m w-hat Mien depends this exhaustion? Is it from a fai’ure of the phosphoric acid contained in the soluble animal and vegetable matters of the soil ? Whe heT this be the case or not, we know that the production is greatly increased bv the appli- cation of decomposing vegetable and animal manure formed by supplying lots and stables with litter from the woods and other sources, which mixes with and absorbs the solid and fluid parts of the excrements of our domestic animais. V\ e find too, from the analysi" of cotton seed made by Prof. Sheppard, that nearly fi'ty per ct. I of their inorganic constituents is phosphoric ' acid, which, if not returned, the soil will, as he states, rap dly “become completely exhausted and unproductive.” Does this not point to the j application of the immense beds of shells and I shell marl, so liberally disposed through the coun- ties of Burke and Jefierson, which by their gra- dual decomposition would supply the waste? For these marls and shells, like all other sub- : stances of animal origin, contain phosphoric acid I to a greater or less extent Then lime also, where there is a deficiency, as there seems to be in ; some olaces, or where there is a superabundance I of undecomposed vegetable matter, would be ve- ; ry beneficial. The experience of Gov. Ham- I mond, to whom the agricultural public are so . much indebted, is sufficient pro . f of the benefit of marling. I As to applying other mineral salts, unless I there is an ascertained deficiency, I cannot see ' the use, whether inform of “ Bommer’s method” I or otherwise. Of the benefit to be derived from , the application ot decomposing vegetabie ma‘- i ter there is no doubt. Yet if it is not placed suffi- I ciently deep, so that a constant moisture s-cure ' a steady and gradual decomposition, it may prote ; injurious to a single crop in a dry season, as ma- i ny sur/ace farmers can testify from last ..a's I experience. Lime will undoubtedly has’ rn the ! decomposition of vegetable matter, yet if tliere i is not an abundance of these matters in ihe I soil upon which it can act, it may prove injuri- I ous in too great quantity, j There is another substance called “green sand” which contains, judging from the compo- sition of the rock from which it is decomp-csed, I a considerable per cent, of lime and potash. It ; has been recommended as a mineral manure. I j do not know, but would like to beinformed whe- ther it is a profitable application, i But I presume, Mr. Editor, you are fired of I this yarn, so accept my best wishes and best ef- ; forts also for the success of the Southern Cul- i TIVATOR. P. D IVIDSON. j Indian Hill. August 17, 1346. I Cure for Bots. Mr Camak Having seen an a'^ficle in the ! last number of the Cultivator headed “ Bots in ! Horses,” and there being no certain cure given, j made me desirous of making known 'o the pub- ' lie a remedy, which I believe is known only to a few individuals, and is a certain cure for that dis- I ease, unless they have perforated the stomach: Take a piece of Indian meal dough of the size of a walnut, flatten it on the hand and pour thereon sixty grains of red precipitate, (which may be obtained from an Apothecary or Doctor,) and close the dough over it, making a kind ol pill. Then raise the horse’s head, draw out his tongue, lay the pill as far back as possible on the to gue, and let it go, which will carry the pill so far back ; that the horse cannot throw it out of bis mouth, i Nothing more is required, only light diet for a j fewdays. j By the above directions, I have known horses I relievec from the most excruciating agony in a few minutes. Would not a few doses of this be a most useful “pocket companion” for wagoners, coachmen, etc? A Subscriber. Gravel. Mr.Caaiak: — I would like to elicit, through the columns of your i iteresting paper, a remedy for a disease, which is prevalent among horses, called “ Gravel.” A Farmer. 156 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVAl’OR Progress of the Briiikleyvllle Viaeyards» aud some Ultraisms Noticed. Me. Camae: — Every branch of agricultural enterprise would appear to be entitled to advoca- cy i-i periodicals edited expressly to promote improvement in the most primitive and useful of ail arts. Butin the new world, ifany one branch has more claims to a hearing than another, it may be s ich an one as is in a pioneer state of ad- vancement ; as may be said of the vineyard en- terprise— an enterprise that should interest Ame- rican farmers generally. But there are some peculiar reasons for South- ern farmers turning their attention to the vine- yard business. A few of these I will briefly state. And a very prominent reason is, that most Southern climates and soils are admirably adapted to the American mode of culture of na- tive or American grapes, and the superior excel- lency of American made wine. A conclusive proof of this position is the very luxuriant growth of our forest and other native grapes everywhere in the South, and the peculiar zest and healthi- ness of our American wines wherever due skill and pains are exerted in making them. Let it be remembered that, in the agricultural census, the Southern exceeded the Northern Statea in the wine product, and North Carolina in partic- ular ranked highest by some thousands of gallons. And it may be remarked that, in some of the Southern States, where cotton is no longer of profitable culture, the vineyard business fitly may take the place of that great staple. And besides, a laudable self interest, a patriotic motive, should sway our Southern farmers to- ward vineyard employment, or that of helping to save our country from dependence on foreign lands for annual millions of dollars’ worth of wine. And it may be added, the motive of freeing us from an enormous expense for a liquor not so unequivocally medicinal and otherwise excellent us the rightly American made fermented juice of our own native grapes. It is related in Goodrich’s standard “History of the United States,” that what particularly at- tracted the attention of the first voyagers to North America was the abundance of fine native grapes everywhere seen, compared, for clusters and ex- cellency, to the Bible grapes of Eschol. Pity the f.rcumstance of abundance of best kinds of na- tive grapes had not been availed of by the after settlers of the country in order to prevent the re- tarding of native American vineyards and modes of wine making, through the injudicious intro- duction of foreign grapes and modes ! ! Here I venture to observe that, as making, U is thought, the most wine of any individual in the Southern States, I hope it will not be deem- ed vanity or presumption for me to state my suc- cess as a doer of w hat I recommend to my fellow agriculturists of the South. In various periodi- cals of our country I have detailed, at some length, my principles and practice as to vine- yards, and exhibited them as American through- out. I therefore merely state here, as evidence that my American syst.in is onward in improve- ment and profit, that I have circulated my choice and most select American vines through all parts of the Union, for orders and remittances, (I am credibly informed that my native Halifax ranks a first-rate grape, sent to France,) and that their culture, so far as heard from, is very satisfacto- ry; and that of about fifty barrels of wine made in two past vintages, (my peculiar or American mode of making insures both the safe keeping and quick maturity of the wine,) I have sold nearly all, with a fair prospect of an increasing steady demand far and near in the United States. And I further state here, that so aoundant is the bearing of my vineyards now, that I calculate about 40 barrels of wine, of still improving qual- ity, will be the product of the present vintage. This abundant vineyard product is one only of a worn-out plantation greatly improved in seven- teen years. And one peculiar satisfaction attending my success in the vineyard cause is, that my wines, so far as [ have heard and seen, subserve the purpose for which, as a leading motive, I first undertook the business ; or that besides the su- perior medicinil qua.ities of good American wines, they indirectly promote the cause of true temperance; or, as a substitute for the use of ar- dent spiiits, they tend to check the dire effects of their excess ; and therefore I look forward to the period when our country, like European wine making ones, will be temperate, and distill ed liquors not used as a beverage, or scarcely at all, unless for the purpose of mixing with and in- suring the safe keeping of wines. And after mature observation and reflection on the temperance movements of our day, as well as participation therein, I opine that a good Chris- tian church, whose members are under most solemn vows to be temperate in all things, is a most excellent Temperance Society. But I am so far from supposing that other than Church Temperance Societies, even if ultra in some of their leading features, are militating against the desirable consummation of the vineyard cause just named, that 1 consider them also as subsi- diary thereto. Yet, I consider all really ultra views and action in any cause, however good in itself, as calculated to injure by reaction that cause, or that so fa: as ultraisms may have any effect, sooner or later, they will prove deleterious unless counteracted in someway. A wrong prin- ciple, or a right one overstrained to a wrong, is uncharitable injustice of one part of manWnd to another. Suchis ultraism. but roe rife, as to some things, in our day and country. But per- nicious ultraisms will predominate long only in despotic lands, not in free America. Yet to this end, or their correction, they need public exposi tion like other bad causes. The denunciation of others for temperately using things lawful is a crying anti-republican sin against the right of private as well as public judgment and action. The maxim of such de- nunciation is : “ Not right to suffer others to go wrong.” (This maxim will do when station and authority demand its appliance.) And to deter- mine the settling of the right in their own favor, and the wrong against all others, the despotic in church, state and physic, have another maxim very convenient for their purpose, viz : “ No man (not of us, or our party, the Simon Pares, of the earth,) has a right to think for himself;” and by consequence, those so fortunate as to be listed in the cause of such despotism, must think for all others not in their way of thinking. Hence, in matters of religion, (wlrich, if truly Christian, requires the highest energy of individual thought,) those thus despotically inclined put themselves in place of Deity himself, as to others differing from them ; and hence infer that it does not pertain to Roman Catholic despotism alone to teach that, “ the more ignorance and ab- jectness of mind, the more piety. The maxim in contrast with the above abhor- rent ones is, “ that in all things lawful, others and all others, have as good a right as we to think, judge and act for themselves ;” and therefore we would be detestable tyrants to interpose perse- cution of words or deeds to prevent others from the free exercise of those righ ts conferred on all by the Father of all. In short, to end these gen- eral views of ultraisms, 1 remark that it becomes freemen to be “ eternally vigilant,” or to thus pay the price of liberty in order to its continued possession. Many reformation and revolution devotees of genuine religious and republican liberty (center- ing in the right of the people’s private judgment) as well as true freedom of the press, sacrificed their lives as the bloody price thereof. And we should preserve it by vigilant watchings against encr lachments upon ourdear-bought rights fram every quarter. To apply the above general principles, to the cause of temperance in particular: well to exa- mine whether it is not selfish ultraism to de- nounce Temperance Societies, or, in other words, the perfect right of all citizens to form themselves into Societies to promote any lawful object ; and, it may be added, to abstain from meats and drinks, as swine’s flesh or wines, or, say luxu- ries of any kind in eating, drinking or wearing, as tobacco, ardent spirits, or silks or satins On •he other hand ; well to reflect whether either individuals or Societies denouncing others for refusing or not choosing to farego any of hea- ven’s blessings, is not the same kind of selfish ultraism as the opposite extreme. Let us here notice such ultraism as to wine in particular. It appears as plain almost as any other truth in the Bible that wine is ranked as a blessing alongside of bread itself, the staff ef life, yet lia- ble, like all other blessings, to intemperate ab ise. Temperance is emphatically the right use of things lawful. And to say that scripture wine wa» not, aathe modern, capable of abuse by in- toxication, is like the pitiful subterfuge, or beg- ging the question in diapute on the part of the abolitionists, when they say that the word ser- vant in the Bible never means slave. Let them prove that. The curses ol scripture against drunkenness by wine, and the many caveats against its intemperate use, show clearly, with- out other proof, that scripture wine was the real fermented juice ol the grape, and therefore, not mere grape juice, but genuine wine, capable of producing intoxication whenever taken to ex- cess ; and although I consider it a sound tempe- rance principle that the j oungand healthy should never resort to the daily or habitual use of any stimulant; yet the instance of our Saviour, the greatest pattern of true temperance, making and using wine at a wedding, fully countenances the use of wine for all, on convivial occasions. One of the greatest of imposters, Mahomet, forbade wine to his followers. But the great and true Messiah so made, used, and openly countenanced wine, that by the hypocritical Pharisees of old, he was reproachfully called a “ wine bibber.'* I am aware that while the foregoing senti- ments coincide with those of the great body of true Christians in all ages, that they also may disagree with the views of a portion of the now existing Christian public in our land But I am also fully aware that ultra views and action against true, moderate and benign Bible positions are rife in our day on diverse matters. F or instance : the Bible sanctioned slavery ; that, in course of Divine Providence, renders the low- est class of our Southern population, the blacks, greatly better off than the sameclassin the North, and especially the degraded starving white poor of Europe, and elsewhere on the Eastern con- tinent. This is denounced by so me called Chris- tians; who, not content with not owning slaves themselves; or refrai.iing from availing of a pri- vilege (proved by stubborn facts, benign in its tendencies) conferred by thtir Bibles, and confor- mable to the usages of the most enlightened and moral nations, and people, of all ages rf the world; would also, like the fabled dog in the manger, cut off all others from said privilege. Another gross instance of ultraism, as to capi- tal punishments for most atrocious crimes. Some in Christian lands not only would sub- ject the good citizen to the destruction of the merciless and bloodthirsty assassin, but virtual- ly denounce the Bible declaration : “ that who- so sheddeth man’s blood, by man shall his blood be shed.” Other pseudo nhilanthropists and infidel ultra- ists, would, in despite of Heavenly precepts, banish the rod of correction from schools and families. But I forbear, though full of my subject; con- sidering that the few hint?, which I have just ad- duced, may evince my position in regard to true temperance, or the benign cause I aimed to promote by vineyards and wine making. In haste, yours, &c. Sidney Weller. Brinkleyville, Halifax Co., N. C., SepL, 1846. Sowing Wheat. Mb. Camak : — On reading the last number of the Albany Cultivator, I notice some remarks made by a farmer of Louisville, Ky., on sow- ing wheat, which accords with my views and practice for several years, and as the time of sowing is near at hana, I will give you my plan; perhaps some one may be induced to try it. In the first place I sift my wheat thmugh a coarse sand sieve, that the small and imperfect grains may be separated from the good. I then put it gently into strong brine and skim off and throw away all that will float. The seed remain- in the brine about twenty-four hours, then taken out and rolled in lime. This is to prevent smut as we!! as to separate all imperfect grains from the good. I prepare the land by breaking and harrowing until it is in good order, and always harrow in my seed instead ol plowing, and try to get it in by the last of September or first of October, when the earth is moderately dry. The quanti- ty I sow per acre is three gallons, (broadcast,) and I generally find my wheat thick enough. Al- though a great many of my acquaintances .sow a bushel per acre, I don’t know any that make better wheat than I do. Then why all this waste of seed? Every farmer knows that a grain of wheat, if favored, THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 157 will produce from ten to fifty heads, say the for- mer, and each head forty grains (which is not ex- travagant,) would be four hundred grains from one. VVell, if one grain will produce four hun- dred, one bushel should produce four hundred bushels. But, instead of that, only about ten bushels are obtained from one sown, which is con- sidered by the most of farmers here a very good yield per acre, which is in fact only one -fourth of a head to each grain sown. I think the secret lies heie, that those bushel sowing farmers turn their wheat in very deep late in (Jptober or No- vember, without previously breaking the land, and by the time the wheat gets up and forms a stem or fibre sufficiently strong to afford roots near the surface, (as soon as this takes place the roots at the grain perish,) the cold winter wea- ther finds it with but *a few short roots, and must remain so until spring, and then can only affb.d a few slender stalks with small short heads, while the grain but an inch deep comes up immediate- ly, and the roots first thrown out remain per- manent and have time to increase their num- ber and length, and a quantity of blades which enables it to stand the winter, and will grow oif in the spring and yield a number of fine, healthy stalks with large heads full of plump grain. When I tell some of rny neighbors that hallow covered grain will stand the winter better than that covered deep, they laugh at the idea. Very well. 1 have succeeded well for the last seven years on the above plan, and do not feel disposed to abandon it until I find out a better. Respectfully yours, J. D. Havis. Houiton, Ga., August 19, 1846. Cotton — Caterpillar. Mr. Camak : — As I am one of your subscri- bers, I feel in duty bound to contribute all the information that I am in possession of, that would enhance our Cotton crops, by destroying the worms which have been, and are now, making such havoc on some farms that the crops will be an entire failure. 1, for one, be- lieve that all diseases and disasters have their effectual remedies, which if rightly applied, and at the right season, will prove successful. I know there are many farmers who disdain to believe any thing like experiments to be pro- fitable. They are an anti-prosperous kind of beings (not Farmers,) who are content to sit on the stool of do nothing and murmur at Provi- dence, and will not even listen to any new idea, take hold of no new inventions, but hold on to the old rules. Father larnt them well; father cut off his pig’s tails when he castrated them, and they do it too ; and father lost about one pig in ten or fifteen, and they do too. Well, Anti, just ask your neighbor who has hogs with long tails if he ever loses any by castra- tion, and my word for it he will tell you no, scarcely ever ; and on the other hand ask your neighbor who has short tail hogs if he ever loses any by the operation. He will say, oh yes; some how or other 1 never can get a good hand to attend the operation, as I know I al- ways attend to these things when the sign is in the fat, and my pigs die. Well, sir, lay down your prejudice, and never cut off a pig’s tail and they will not bleed to death. Try it; and as I shall tell you how to keep the worm out of your Cotton, try it also; and if either tails, just pub- lish your name in the Cultivator, and 1 will pay the subscription for one year of all who will try it fairly and fail. About the first of July I discovered the worms had made their appearance in my Cotton. About that time we had a tew very warm days which made them disappear; and I saw no sign of them till about the 15ih August ; and then on close examination, I found nearly every stalk had more or less worms and eggs ; in the bud of the stalk, [counted as many as 12 eggs and saw some at the stage when the worm was coming out of the egg. The eggs are very small, about the size of mustard seed, and of a pale dove color. The worm, when it first hatches, com- mences eating the bud where the eggs are de- posited. The worm, when first hatched, is about the stze of a small ant’s body; and in a few days they will shed and commence search- ing for the squares. On the 15lh 1 caught numberscf the flies which lay the eggs, about sun set, and found their bodies full of eggs. 1 made it a business every evening to go into the field to catch the fly and examine them ; and I found ever} evening they had less eggs in them; and on the 20th day I caught numbers of the flies, and in pulling them in two I found they had layed out their eggs, or at least I could find none in them. 1 had not topped my Cotton till 1 found at what time the flies had stopt laying. As 1 wished to make an experi- ment, 1 started my hands to topping and gave them instructions to top as low down as they discovered any squares had opened, and also to top all the suckers ; and I will assure you it looked like a ruinous business, as some times it Would take one third of the stalk. I made the hands rub what was pulled off) so as to de- stroy what eggs and worms they gathered. At that time I offered to take 10 bags of Cotton for my crop, which was 70 acres ; but since the topping I would not take 39. It is true it was a considerable task, as my hands would not top more than 1| acres per hand a day. 1 feel richly rewarded for my trouble and ex- periment, and know of a truth that others may be benefilted, if we ever should be troubled by the worms again. I would have wrote sooner, but wishing to be satisfied with the experiment makes it too late to be of any advantage to the farmers this sea- son, as the worm has got ilown into the large bolls. But I dare say some Anfi will say. Father top- ped his Cotton, and he had worms in it tco, and I don’t believe the experiment will do. But again, let Father keep his eye on the fiddler, and watch the fly, the egg and the worm, and ton with judgment, as I have given directions, and he will say, away with prejudice. Give me instruction and let me know the signs of the times, which will be by taking the Cultivator. September, 1846. Watts. History of Husbandry. Mr. Camak: 1 propose, with your approba- tion, and from my recollections ot former, and information by present, readings, to give a suc- cinct History of Husbandry, for the edification of such friends of the Southern Cultivator, whose time and money preclude to any satis- fac ion, such an investigation. By the compre- hensive term Husbandry, I mean Agriculture and Horticulture, combined. I shall endeayor to treat the subject with accuracy and justice. Husbandry is the oldest and leading business of man. Eyen at the creation, the hour of its birth, Adam was placed in a garden to “dress and keep it” — and hence the first manual ope- ration of man, was in the uncovered air— and horticultural. It was an employment befitting celestial beings! And the Divine power walk- ed in the coolness of the garden. After that moral catastrophe, the fall, the two sons first born to Adam, Cain and Abel, were, one a “til- ler of the ground,” and the other a “keeper of sheep” — primeval pursuits familiar to Far- mers. In the progress of time, the process of business branched into the manufactures, which are always sustained by farming as the original foundation. The Deiuge intervened. The new creation again found its Patriarch attend- ing the soil; and Noah as “a husbandman planted a vineyard” — proof that the art of fabri- cating wine is lost in the lapse of immemorial time. Alter the dispersion from Babel— the various families of mankind retained, or lost their civi- lization, in exact proportion to ifieir relainment or loss of the husbandrial art. Even Baby lon, the first built city, and those of the Egyptians, Greeks, Jews and Romans, were unrefined until in after ages the art of aardening had been better perfected. Nations that had no address in drawing sustenance from the land, but be- came hunters and fishers, living on the surface of an ostensible and precarious nature, were like the aborigines on this continent,— having lost sight of every vestige of Agriculture, and by consequence, of all the arts and refinements of life. “Among savage natior^ one of the first indications of advancement towards a state of civilization, was the cultivation of a little spot of ground for raising vegetables ; and the degree of refinement among the inhabitants of any country, may be determined with tolerable cer- tainty, by the taste and skill exhibited in their gardens.” This fact is corroborated by an ob- servation of the Indian tribes removed beyond the Mississippi, who are gradually becoming enlightened. If the oldest record of our religion mentioned husbandry as the primary occupation, in like manner the oldest of the profane writers, He- siod has spoken— in a book called the “Works and Days.” The Cadmean art — the invention of letters, either by Thot of Egypt, or by the Brahmins of India, or as imparted lo Moses by the finger of God, if it was not long before evi • dent in the “mar^ set on Cain” — as an ap- proach thereto— may have been known and used before the Greek, Hesiod. But Literati do not appear, aside from the Book of Job, to possess any authority anti-dating the Grecian Poet. The first writing, therefore, of mao, as his first employment, was AgricuLural. And the Farmer can stand up, and tell the Free-ma- son, that his brethren and his operation are the oldest in action— having survived the fall of empires, the decay of the works of art and the forgotten memorials of greatness; andyet, with- out the necessity of secrecy, or oaths, remained more entire 1 The Chaldeans were probably the original farmers who retained possession of the soil, and improved it. After them, the Egyptians and the Persians. Nearly the rest of the descend- ants of Adam became Nomades, and went afar in every point of the compass, and planted colonies that in after ages frightened the refined Romans with their appearance, and finally, it seemed, subjugated that proud city, and popu- lated Europe as she now is. Commerce, after Agriculture had completed its bounds, followed as a consequence. Phoenicians built Tyre, and engrossed the trade of the then known world. They were not agricultural on that barren rock; but by conveying produce between different countries they served an useful purpose. But let not merchants boast over farmers. Without the assistance and solidity of that useful son of the country, wdiere would traffickers be 1 In ancienttiraes Agriculture, though not much mentioned by historians, too intent on depicting armie.s, must have been very universal, or else carried to a high state of perfection, since pro- visions were obtained for so many and such constantly succeeding wars. “The Greeks and Romans most celebrated for their military enterprises, were also most attentive to the cul- tivation of the soil.” And often the very hands that guided the plow, periodically wielded the truncheon of the armies. Who has not read of Cincinnatus — who rose from the plow thrice to save the Roman Common wealth, and then, as successively, went back to the plow again 1 Of Cato, who was the orator, the gene- ral and the censor, who lived on eight acres which he himself tilled, and in a hut, eating turnips ? Of other leading men, both Roman and Greek, who during the principal times of their Republics, disdained not to harden their hands and cheer their honest hearts, upon the peaceful fields of Agiicullure"? As Rome became more colossal, even before she became, unhappily lor liberty, imperial, her great tnen - proponionably neglected hus- bandry, and in their lofty pride disdained its useful, though humble, and life sustaining pur- suits. Unlike our own peaceful Calhoun, and Clay, and Webster and Van Buren, the Mari- uses and Syllas, the Pompeys and Caesars of antiquity overlooked the fertile fields of the Ro- man boundary, and cas' Eagle-eyes upon the impregnant lands of Gaul and the Orient. The state could not as a common weal survive tins pride or ambition. She was smothered in their too warm and potent embraces alter fame. 158 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. Bul .ougDeluiv* ihe sau decay ot alike Grecian and Roman glory, republicans had begun, at a self same hour, as if by mutual consent, to abandon agricub ure, so far as regards personal practice or inspection, and to make men com- bined in armies the fearful crop of rapacity ! The hour that saw the generation of the Cin- cinnatuses and the Catos depart from living Rome, and agriculture became confided to slaves,— the same attitude of events too that transpired in Greece— was the hour for the final departure of liberty from those regions. For when man as an o'' ner has no tenure on the soil— what can be his motive for desiring the continuance of prevailing things, and of course by parity of reasoning, of liberty'? Or when he does own, but makes the improvement of his tracts no favorite pleasure, leaves them to tenants, or forgets them, what guaranty has the State in his continued faiihfulness ? Had the days of Cato continued to Rome— and had consecutively all design of conquests been given over, — the Roman Commonwealth had lasted to this day. But ambition disdains agriculture: it turns the plowshare into the sword; it transforms pruning hooks into spears ; to this day its dreams, when balmiest, are of culverins and cannons, of gigantic calibre. In giving its history, I would call attention to the peaceful tendency and patriotic quality of agiiculture. Nurna Pompilius was the only one of the primitive monarchs of Rome, who would have imparted a peaceful tenor to ihe Roman spirit, and it w as said landed cultivation was /t?s de- 1' But the martial policy of Romulus, the loui; !er, was too potential for the example of Numa. Rome was destined for a career of blood, and agriculture to be abandoned in its course. The sinew of controversy inhered in the Pa- tricians. Descended from the ravished Dam- sels of Sabina, they would be conspimous, even over Cato, amid his eight acres. The more ancient a nobility, the more in veierate. To give some cessation to these turmoils be- tween Patricians and Plebeians and to avert civil commotion, the several consuls in their acute forecast, sent both parties, or the flower of them, to distant wars, and by the excitement of a spirit of conquest, directed, thus continu- ally, the danger.)Lis arms of the Romans from themselves and their city, upon contiguous, and, at length, upon distant kingdoms. As these conquests grew into a habit and a passion, and from the introduction of oriental luxuries, the hardy Romaiis became enervaied ; forgot the primeval principle of eight acres to every family ; enacted that five hundred become the policy; and, at Iasi, that wealth may hold both land and slaves, the subjugated, without number, or restriction, until a Patrician had broad domains, and, in one instance, twenty thousand slaves. But mark the sequel. If Ca‘o was kept at home, and as Cincinnatus evinced by an appli- cation of mind upon his narrow, but to his simplicity sufficient estate, the ambition of Sylla had no such motive : nor did he perhaps ever finger an axe, hoe, or plow, or even oversee his laborers. And the destruction of the Gracchi, previously, those jewels of Corne- lia, for attempting to restore the pristine purity of the commonwealth by deductions on estates, led the way to the alternate triumphs ot Marius and Sylla, which introduced those ot Csssar, and then intervened the well known iraperiaiity of Rome and its consequent “ decline and fall,” Mav not all this disaster be traced to th^ Patri- archal abandonment of agriculiure? And does it not premonish Americans never to be- come weaned from a hold of afiection to the soil ! The effort of Augustus to restore the cultiva- tion of the soil to respectability, when Virgil at his command wrote his Georgies, was tem- porary. The Empire had already grown great and was unwieldy, and as the sw’ord had been her marching guerdon lo renown and power. so in the mysterious retribution ol Providence, thesame signal instrument also worked her de- struction ! The same results every where suc- ceeded the same operations ! The maxims ol Socrates and of Xenophon on tillage and the horse, had but little influence over their countrymen. Everything was bent to war, that too unfortunately natural passion of man’s appetite — as in after times, in spite of the regulating maxims of LaFayeite, leading to steady Liberty, the phrenzied French made the wildest license their idolatry. The same consequences lollowed alike to Agriculture and the State. Other arts, and trades, and professions cannot, from the portable system of the occupation, be so patriotic as the fixedness of farming necessi- tates upon the Agricultnrist. Fanners, it is proverbial, always wish to let Government a- lone. They never essay to pluck one pinion from the wing of embodied freedom. With such men, untroubled by pragmatic persons from the cities, our free Government would last forever. This, as 1 have exhibi ed, the Histo- ries of past nations confirm — and this our owm will . Why did Cromwell remain content in Eng- land alter the conquest of Ireland; why, unlike Buonaparte, did he not attempt the conquest ot Holland, &c.'? Because Cromwell was a plow- boy! Whereas, the Corsican knew nothing, even of horticulture. Will my countrymen take the hint? Who and what was Washing- ton ? In England, from which country, owing to our lineage by far, and tc the synonymity ol our dialects, we imbibe nearly all our husbandrial improvements. Agriculture was at a low ebb until the fourteenth century — and ii seems, not cultivated as a science until the sixteenth cen- tury. [See Hazen’s Panorama of the Arts and Trades — article, The Agriculturist.] Jn 1.534, the first book on Agriculture there appeared. “ It was written by A. Fitzherbert, a Justice of the Peace, who studied the Laws of Vegetation and the nature of soils with philosophical ac- cuiacv.” “Very little improvement was made on the theory of this author for upwards ot a hundred years, when Hugh Platt discovered and brought into use several kinds of manures, for improv- ing exhausted soils ” “ Agriculture again receir ed a new impulse about the middle of the I8th century; and in 1793 a Board of Agriculture was esiablished by an act of Parliament, at the suggestion of Sir John Sinclair, who was elected its President. Through the influence of this board, a great number of Agricultural Societies have been formed in the kingdom, and much valuable in- formation on rural economy communicated to the public through the medium of a voluminous publication under its superintendence.” At present, these associations are numerous in the British Isles, an^ adopting theirexampie, numerous also in the United Slates. They in- spect and instruct their members and the coun- try through books, periodicals and lectures on every con eivable topic peculiarto Agriculture Bul Horticulture is m.l yet so perfected as the other branch of husbandry. It existed in Italy, Germany, France, and on Continental Europe, generally, long before its introduction by Charles the If. in 1660. And it is not yet ge- nerally diffused here, I think in consequence of our social system as to proprietary lands, be- ing dissimilar, by virtue ol the absence ot Primogeniture, from the civil polity of that country; where broad domains, descending to first born or eldest son, remain with all ances tral improvements, from generation to genera- tion, with the superadditions of recent embel lishments upon the fruitions of centuries: Con- sequently the English Baron or Lord has over a hundred acres devoted to picturesque land- scape, in the very bed of horticulture and gar- denings, alone. Let us not repine at this stern policy ot our revolutionary ancestors. They were not vi- sionaries admiring, like Pygmalion, the ideal statue lor the beautiful reality. They would have Liberty, in vulgar parlance, and made her to be seen and felt! Cld systems, there- fore, have crumbled under their Constitution. But horticulture onlv suflTers in the scenery. Every ‘smart’-minded tanner or planter can de- rive all the uses ot a bountiful boiticulture in the compass ol a lew acres, by a judicious se- lection and management of all its varied items. All our standard productions, except Indian corn and tobacco, are exotics. These two, like the w ild Turkey, are indigenous to our conti- nent. Cotton was introduced from some East- ern Island, where, as in China, it had long been cultivated. It was a lardy plant until a north- ern gentleman, Whitney, upon the soil of Geor- gia, invented the famous gin. “In 1791 the whole export of the Union was only sixty-four bales; but in 1834 it amounted to 1,000,617;” and now 2,000,000. The sugar cane became al- so an East India product, was long cultivated in China, and mention is made of its being in use among the Greeks and Romans during their days of prosperity. Previous to 1466, sugar was known in England chiefly as a viedicine, into which country it had been sold from Arabia Felix, Egypt, Nubia, Ethiopia and Morocco. “Now, in point of importance, it ranks next to wheat and rice in the vegetable world, and first in maritime commerce ” Rice is also an Eastern grain. Now a staple of South Carolina. Wheat, the staff of New England, New York and Pennsylvania — oats, barley, and all other grains, excepting the In- dian corn, as 1 before intimated, belong, by pri- ority ol cultivation, toother and remote lands. A Ithough species of them may'a^ found wild in the immense pampas ot South America. Still our king vegetable, Indian corn, seriously carries the palm, from its adaptation for man and for every species of live stock he calls around his habitation. Butler it be borne in mind, that though living in this age of the 19th century, when steam and its triumphs are supposed everything, and we are remembering our plodding ancestors and the ancients with contempt, that they knew some valuable arts with which we are unac- quainted. Not all the ingenuity ot Sir Humph- rey Davy could delect \\\^ materiel of the Tyrian dye. Few modern if any statuary, have equal- led— none have surpassed the statues of a Gre- cian Phidias, or Pr-axileles, or Apelles— and on the science of husbandry, the countrymen of Cato, Brutus or Cassius, of Plato, or Zeno— might have known vegetative secrets to us en- tirely lost in practice. They boasted several writers — Theophrastus, .®lian. Yarn, Pliny, Columilla and Palladios, and whom I have al- ready iiamed. When have we made a Colos- sus of 6r^7ss bestriding over the masts ol huge ships? The Rhodian still lives in raemoiy, a wonder — while from neglected ancient maxims, many a modern might invigorate the productive agenev of his lands. Very respectfully, yours, J. J. Flournoy. ^gtkullural illeetings. Monroe and Conecuh Agricultural Society, Mr. CxMAKtThe citizens of Monroe and Conecuh counties had a meeting at the Burnt Corn Academy on the second Saturday in July last, and formed an Agricultural Society by the name of the Monroe and Conecuh Agricultural Society. The officers of ihs Society are : Dr. John Watkins, President J Dr. Wm. Cunning- ham, of Monroe county, and Nicholas Stal- 'vorlh, of Conecuh county, Vice-Presidents; Samuel James Cumming, Recording Secreta- ry ; and John Green, senr., Corresponding Secretary. David Cannon, Jeremiah Carter and Ithiel Lee, Esqrs., were appointed to draft a constitution for the Society, to be submitted at the next meeting, which took place last Saturday. The gentlemen appointed to draft the constitution, submitted it to the Society, and it was received and adopted. Dr. Watkins then addressed the Society in a very appro- THE SOU THERN CULTIVATOR. 159 priaie manner. Auer which, the Society re- quested of the Doctor a copy of his address, to be published in the Soothkrn Cultivator. The Doctor ^ranie l the request. It was then agreed on by the Society, that the address, to- gether with the proceedings be published in the Southern Cultivator i have been instructed to forward the same to you for publication, and as it is the first Agricultural Society that has been formed in this section ofcountry, and as Dr. Watkins is generally known throughout the State of Alabama, as a very intelligent man, and wifnal as one of our first farmers, we hope that his address, when read, will have conside- rable influence in calling the attention of our fellow-citizens to the grand object of our Socie- ty, which is the extension of the knowledge of the principles and practice of scientific agricul- ture. R spectlully yours, John Green, Sr., Cor. Secretary. Burnt Com, Ala., August \\th, 1846. ADDRESS OF DR. WATKINS. Gentlemen: — It will be unnecessary for me to state to you that the object of our meeting, and the aim of our Society, is the promotion of that most important of human pursuits. Agriculture, which not only feeds and clothes those engaged in it, but likewise all other pro- ductive avocations — besides a numerous class of individuals, in all countries and societies, cnnsumere fruges," or drones, who add no- thing in return to the aggregate production of the industrial classes, on whom they live and depend for food, raiment and luxuries. Agri- culture does all this, in fddition to rearing a multiplicity of animals fi r the aid and comfort of the cultivator, and those engaged in the nu- merous arts and literarv employments of man- kind. Agricultuie may be defined the art by which man produces from the culture of the soil, the various vegetable substances out of which he subsists and clothes himsell. It may date its origin trom the expulsion of our pro- genitors from the garden of Eden, and is there- fore the oldest profession on record But, whilst we are thus compelled to admit its great an- tiquity, and its indispensable necessity (or the support of our species, we must, at the same time, make the humiliating confession that it is far behind its sister arts and sciences in the collation and development of its facts and prin- ciples. This tardy progress of agriculture, in modern times, may be mainly attributed to a very general belief that no study or information is ne- cessary to cultivate the soil, which our Creator has made ready and unc.iangeable; and conse- quently to the practice of planters under this be- lief, of dedicating and educating their bright- est sons to what is called trie learned profes- sions, of Law, Physic and Divinity; whilst for the plan er, ne devotes the dullest and most unpromising of his offspring. An- other cause, more potent than ihe above, and the effect of it, is the too prevalent prejudice against book-farming. If we cast a retrospec- tive view upon the history of mankind, for the di- minutive period ofa century only, we shall find that the progress of all the other art.s and sciences, was preceded by free dissemination and discus- sion, by means of books and papers. Until within the first quarter of the present century, agriculture has had little aid from this source. Need we then wonder at the frequent and dis- heartening spectac-le of « orn-out fields, turned out to grow up in briars and pines, and washed inio almost impassable gullies, and hear sen- sible men as they sigh over the barren field, ex- claim, it IS lost and irreclaimable forever. Is it true then, that all oiner arts and sciences have the means of advancement and perpetuity, whilst agriculture alone, the most indispensable of all, has the very seeds of destruction sown in its own operations. If this is the truth, and as is frequently as.serted, southern soils are incapa- ble of resuscitation, or amelioration, then in- deed is our condition deplo.rable. If Providence is less bountiful to the planter than tootherpro- lessions, then does the curse of Cain, the first planter, rest upon h!5de.scendants— then is there no science in agriculture. In vain have the experiments of chemistry developed the ingre- dients of component parts of the soil, and of its productions, if this knowledge cannot be made available. Then, like wandering Arabs, it is time to be makinj preparation for a move west- ward, and into some fresh country, to again be- gin the battle of conquering the forest. But it chemistry has discovered to us the nature and component parts of our soils, and of Us produc- tions, and the variousaffenciesofair and water; and if we possess those ingredients that, with the aid of air and water, increase the fertility of the earth, and replace to it what our heavy rains wash away, and our hot sun exhales — then would it not be the duty of us all to commence this study and carry out its principles in our culture! These aids to agriculture, by her sister sciences, are certainly of vast importance to the planter and farmer. All the planter has to do, then, is to stu fy and examine his soils, and the articles he cultivates, and adapt his manures accordingly. To the planter who pos- sesses a plenty of rich virgin soil, and who is under the impression of its inexhaustibility, these hints and exhortations are superfluous; but, to the most of us, the lime has come when we should commence the w'ork of reclaiming and ameliorating our tired and exhausted soils, or else begin the preparations necessary for the abandonment of our irreparable homesteads. Believing, as I do, however, that our Creator is as bountiful to the planter as to other profes- sions, and believing like wdse that all the ele- ments of the richest soils lie scattered around us, ard awaiting our scientific application of them, and are accessible to us all, it is my purpose to put these developments to the lesiof experiment, before yielding to the very common belief of the irreclaimabiliiy ofour soils. Allsoils con- sist mainly in clay, sand, and vegetable mould, and is rich or poor in proportion to the quanti- ty ot this last substance ; clay being necessary for the purpo e of absociety, to seek out the means by which the condition and cha- racter of the cultivators of the soil can be im- proved and elevated. For this purpose, nothing appears so well calculated as the fuimaiion of societies or clubs, fonhe purpose of stimulating curiosity and rewarding meiit, and at the same lime, to encourage the circulation and reading of such agricultural journals and papers, as have, in other partsof ourlavored country, been multiplied of late, for the use ot the farmer. In conci us. on, let me regret that the choice of a presiding officer for your society did not fall on one more competent to afford you practical in- formation, al hough, I ihink, one more zealous in the cause would be hard to find. Pendleton Farmers’ Society. Mr. Camak — Enclosed, I send you a list of premiums to be a warded, by the Pendleton Far- mers’Society, at its next anniversary meeting in October. As it presents rather a new fea- ture, you will most probably think it worthy a place in the Cultivator. It inav encourage other societies to offerlike premiums, instead of silver cups, money or diplomas. Our Society having recentlv built a commo- dious hall, with a library and other rooms be- low, at a cost of some twelve or filteen hundred dollars, is unable al this time to give large premiums. The Committee were, therefore, under ihe necessity of .spreading a small amount over a list embracing all or most of the objects the Society has usually encouraged the produc- tion of And, as a volume of ei'her of the works will not only seem to be a more respect- able premium than (he amount it will cost, but really will be of much xuoxavalue to thesuccess- ful competitor, with the further and not less de- sirable objecis of patronizing the authors, and encouraging Agriculturists to read such works, both for informaiion and to do a way with a fool- ish prejudice that exists with some against “ book farming,” a greater variety ha.s been selected than msual, and all as appropriate to 160 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. the object lur which the premiums are offered, as possible They only .egret they were not able to embrace a more costly and extended list. You will see, by the resolution respecting new members, that we a''e anxious to encourage the continuance of the Cultivator. I know not that we shall effect anything by the offer, but be that as it may, 1 think our present Club will stick to me, and will, therefore, take the responsibility and you may set me down a sub- altern ui.der our worthy Col. McDonald, and good for my quota of twenty subscribers for the next year. I hope we can furnish even more. Geo. Seaborn, The Committee appointed to report premiums to be awarded in October next, has had the matter under consideration and beg leave to of- fer the following ; Crops. — For the best acre of low-land Corn, provided the product is not less than 75 bushels, a Volume of Johnston’s Lectures on Agricultural Chemistry. For the best acre of upland Corn, product not less than 40 bushels, the same. For the largest yield of W'heat, the product to be not less than 30 bushels on lott land or 20 upland, to each, a Volume of the Farmer’s Library and Monthly Journal of Agriculture. For the greatest amount from one acre of green Corn cut for provender, one Vol. of the Naturalist. For the largest pro- duct of Rice, the yield to be not less than lOO bushels per acre, one VpLume each of the Albany Cultivator and Southern Ag- riculturisf: S?9C,V.’— For the best Stallion for farm use not over 3 years old, one Vol. Youatt on the Horse. For the best Mare, a volume of the same. For the best Jack raised in the district, not over 3 years old.avol.of thesame. For the best Bull, na- tive or imported, one vol. each Treatise on the Cow, and Al- bany Cultivator. For the best Cow, one vol. each Treatise on the Cow and Southern Cultivator. For the best Ram of improved breed, one vol. L. A. Morrel on Sheep. For the best Ewe, the same. Implements. — For the following implements of Agriculture, the price and efficiency to be taken into consideration : isL The best Sub-soil Plow, one volume Southern Cultivator. 2d. The best Turning Plow, one vol. Southern Cultivator. 3d. The best Harrow, one volume of the Muck Manual. 4th. The best Cultivator, one vol. Albany Cultivator, 5th. The best Roller, one vol. Southern Cultivator. 6th. The best Shuck and Straw Cutter, Productive Farming. 7th. The best Com-Sheller, Farmer’s Manual. Miscellaneous. — For the best specimen of Butter, not less than 10 lbs., a Silver butter Knife. For the best piece of homespun, wool and cotton, not less than 10 yards, premium of Si. For the best do. do. wool or silk, 10 yards, S2. For the best piece of homespun for ladies’ dresses, 7 yards, one spinning wheel. For 2d best, 7 yards, a pair of cotton cards. Best piece of flannel, half cotton, 10 yards, SlO. Best blanket, ■wool and cotton, for negroes. S2. Best pair half-hose, all wool, 50 cents. Best pair half-hose, all Cotton, 50 cents. Best carpeting 10 yards, worsted, ®2. Best carpeting, rag, ®2. For the best bushel of Apples, to be presented to the Society, one vol. of the Fruit Culturist. A discreiionary premium Committee will ex amine the various vegetable productions tha may be presented, and deal with them accord- ing to their merits. Such as Cabbage-heads, Beets, Carrots, Parsnips, Celery, Potatoes, Tur- nips and Onions, Apples. Peas, Peaches, G apes, Plower.s, etc. Ni. animal will be entitled to a premium that has heretofore received one from the Society — nor none that is not of superior quality. Geo. Seaborn, O. R. Broyles, > Committee. J. V. Shanklin, j The above report was adopted by the Society when the Chairman moved the following reso- lution : Resolved, That the Secretary be directed on the first day of January next, to subscribe for a number of copies of the Southern Cultivator, equal to the number of new members that may attach themselves to our Society between this and that ti.me, and that each of said new mem- bers be furnished with a copy for the year 1846, which was also adopted by the Society. Elam Sharpe, Jr., Sec’y- Farmers’ Hall, August 13, 1846. Clarke County Agricultural Society. G. B. Haygood, Esq., having announced the death of our distinguished friend to the cause of Agriculture, Col. Alexander McDonald of Eufaula, Ala., On motion of Philip Clayton, Esq., it was Resolved, That this Society has heard with unfeigned regret of the death of Col. Alexander McDonald of Eufaula, Alabama, the great friend and efficient promoter of Southern Agri- culture; and take this method of giving ex- pression to their sympathy, that one so useful has fallen in the midst of his noble and patriotic exertions. Resolved, That a copy of the foregoing reso- lution be furnished the Southern Cultivator for publication. G. B. Haygood, Secr’y. Sept. Is/, 1846. Talbot Agricultural Society. The Society having seen .-’n account of the death of Alexander McDonald, of Eufaula, (Ala.,) passed the following resolutions; Resolved, ist. That the members of this So- ciety, sympathize with the family and friends of the deceased, in the loss of one so estimable in all the relations of life. Resolved, 2nd. That they deplore the loss, al- most irreparable, the farming community has sustained in the death of so intelligent, so en- terprising, and so successful a planter, and, at the lime of his decease, one who was perhaps doing more than any other, to advance the inte- rests of Southern Agricul'ure. J. Carter, President. Thomas A. Brown, Secretary. CQHTEl/ITS OF THIS HUMBER. ORIGINAL PAPERS. Agricultural Education page 153 Agricultural Reiding — Rasping— Permanent Improvement “ 151 Agricultural Society, Monroe and Conecuh — Address of Dr. Watkins..., “ 158 Agricultural Society, Pendleton (S. C.) Far- mers’ “ 159 Agricultural Society, Clarke county “ 160 '■ ‘ Talbot county. “ 160 Apples “ 152 Bots, cure for ‘‘ 153 Cotton — Caterpillar “ 157 Crops in Mississippi— Smut in Wheat— Croup- Inquiries “ 155 Grass for the South, a new “ 152 Gravel “ 155 History of Husbandry “ 157 McDonald’s Proposition — Colton Crop in Alabama “ 154 Mineral Manures “ 155 More of the Right Spirit ;... “ 154 Opinions of the I’ress ■“ 153 Ourselves “ 152 Proposition of Col. McDonald, notice of and list “ 152 Southern Independence “ 153 Vine Culture — Progresss of the Brinkleyville Vineyards, and some TJItraisms noticed. . “ 156 Wheat, sowing “ 150 SELECTIONS, EXTR.ACTS, &C. Butter Making “ 150 Butter, Philadelphia, its high flavor and cause, “ 151 Cotton Crop of the tJnited States for the year ending Aug. 31, 1346 “ 151 Model Farm of the Union, at Mt. Airy, near Philadelphia “ 147 Monthly Calendar— for October “ 145 Rotation of Crops “ 149 Salt as a Fertilizer “ 143 Southern Soils, improvement of “ 148 Soil, how to sustain and improve the quali- ty of “ 149 Tobacco, housing and curing...., “ 146 Wheal, the Southern States should go large- ly into the culture of “ 1.50 Wheat, extraordinary experiment with “ 1.50 |I3= Volumes I., II and III. of the “Southern Cultivator,’’ can be supplied to all who desire them. GEJMUINE GEORGIA PEAINS. I TAKE THIS method of informing the Planters that 1 am still manufacturing Negro Cloths, styled GEORGIA PLAINS, made of .strong, well twisted cotton warp and pure wool filling, which I warrant as a faiihful article, and to wear longer than any Northern Goods, and will sell them as low as Northern Goods of the same weight and width. 'Ihey range in price from 23 I o 30 cents, ac- cording to the weight of wool put in. The difference of price beingonlythecostofthe material in the differ- ent styles, lean and will manufacture Negro Cloths as cheap as the Northern manufacturer, and put in bet* ter wool, and warrant the goods to last longer. Plan- ters wishing to purchase can have their orders filled at any moment, with a credit until January, /Samples can be sent by mail to those at a distance, or seen at the Stole of George W. Lamar & Co., Agents for the Factory in Augusta. None are genuine but those bear- ing my label on them. George Schley, ol-3tC Augusta, Georgia. BRINKIiEYVat/LK VIN. YARDS AM) NURSERY. IN THE ABOVE ESTABLISH- MENT,for market, some two thousand well root- ed Scuppernong, and some hundreds of other most select kinds of American grape vines. Small quantities from ten cents to one dollar, each rooted plant, according to age and size. Medium price, per hundred, $20 the rooted, and $3 for cuttings. Best kinds of fruit and ornamental trees, for Southern climes, from ten to fifty cents each, according to size and scarcity in market. Other nursery articles at cor- responding moderate prices, early or fall planting of vines, &c , especially important in the South. BEST AMERICAN WINES AND CORDIALS. Bottles of select wines and cordials, sealed, wired and labelled, for medicinal and family use, 50 cents, each, and upwards, according to quality ; lowest pri- ces, per gallon, $1, and lowest per barrel. $20 All postpaid letters, orders and remittances, (or equivalent as to last named,) pertaining to the above stated objects, will, as heretofore, receive prompt at- tention and action by the proprietor. Sidney Weller. Editors friendly t.o the advancement of Ameri- can Agricultural enierpise, and those, in particular, for whom I have made communications thereon, may, by a gratuitous inseitioti or so of the above, oblige others of the farming community, and their humble servant, S. W. Brinkleyville, Halifax Co., N. C. Sept. 2. ol* CHOICE FRUIT TREES. THE SUBSCRIBER has on hand a rare collection of FRUIT TREES, graft- ed by himself from the best varieties, ' which have been tested in this climate, among which are some twenty kinds of Tennessee Apples, (which are found to do much better in this climate than North- ern trees.) Also, Pears, Plums, (specimens of which call be shown grown oy ma this season weighing 4 ounces,) Cherries, Apricots, Nectarines, Figs, Grapes Quince, Gooseberries, Also some beautiful dou ble flowering fruit trees as the Apple, Peach, Almond- Quince, &c. Also, Hovey' s celebrated Seedling Straw , berry, which have have proved in this climate to be fine bearers, of enorpions size and of exquisite Pine Apple flavor, (baskets ot this delicious fruit have been in the Columbus mat ket the past summer with berries measuring from 4 to5 inches round.) Also, Ornament- al Shrubs, Plants, &c. Superb Hutch Fiotcering Bulbs, Hyacinths, Tulips, Amarylas. Also an extensive as sorlraent of Garden and Field Seeds, all ofwhich can be found at my seed store in Columbus, Geo. Orders for trees, plants, bulbsor seeds will be carefully packed to go any distance with safety. 8-5 Charles A. Peabody. HAVE YOU A COW! three copies foe one dollar! A TREATISE ON MILCH COWS.— Whereby the quality and quantity of Milk which any cow will give may be accurately determined by ob- serving natural marks or external indications alone ; the length of time she will continue to give milk, &c. &c. By M Francis Guenon, of Libourne, France. Translated for the Farmers’ Library, from the French, by N. P. Trist, Esq. late U. S. Consul at Havana. With Introductory Remarks and Observations on THE COW AND THE DAIRY, By John S. Skinner, Editor Farmers’ Library. LC5= Illu.strated with numerous Engiavings. Price for single copies, neatly done up in pa- per covers, 37^ cents. Full bound in cloth, and letter- ed, 62J cents. The usual discount to booksellers, a- gents, country merchants and pedlers. Farmers throughout the United States may receive the work through the mails. The postage on each co- py will be about 7 cents. By remitting §2 free of post- age we will send seven copies of the work done up in paper covers, or three co’pies for $1 Country merchants visilingany of the cities can ob- tain the work from booksellers for those who may wish to obtain it. Please send on your orders. Address Greeley & AIcElhath, Publishers, 8 Tribune Buildings, New-York. Qoutljern QluUioator Is published on the first of every month, at Augusta, Ga J. W. & W. S. JONES, PROPRIETORS. EDITED BY JAMES CAMAK, OF ATHENS, GA. tep^T-one dollar a year. 1 copy, one year^. . . $1 oo I 25 copies, one year,. .$20 00 6 copies, “ 5 00 I 100 copies, “ ..75 oo [All subscriptions must commence with the volume.] The Cash System will be rigidly adhered to, and in no case will the paper be sent unle.ss the money accompanies the order. ADVERTTSEMENTspertainingto Agriculture, will be in- serted for ONE DOLLAR for every square of ten lines or less, for the first insertion, and seventy-five cents pe^ square for each continuance. EI3=ALL CIMMUNICATIONS, MUST BE POST PAID, and adliressed to JAMES CAMAK, Athens, Georgia. VoL. IV. AUGUSTA, GA., NOVEMBER, 1846. No. 11. A CHAPTER OX BaEAB-HAKSIVG. From Miss Beecher’s Domestic Recipe Book. OVENS. On conslrucling and heating an oven. — The best ovens are usually made thus: After the arch is formed, four or five bushels of ashes are spread over it, and then a covering of charcoal over that, and then another layer of bricks over all. The use of this is, that the ashes become heated, and the charcoal being a non-conductor, the heat is retained much longer. In such an oven, cakes and pies can be baked after the j bread is taken out, and then custards after them. Sometimes four bakings aredone in succession. The first time an oven is used, it should be heat- ed the day previous for half a day, and the oven lid kept up after the fire is out, till heated for baking. As there is so little discretion to be found in those who heat ovens, the housekeep- er will save much trouble and mortification by this arrangement : Have oven wood prepaied of sticks cf equal size and length. Find, by trial, how many are required to heat the oven, and then require that just that number be used, and no more. The fire must be made the back side of the oven, and the oven must be heated so hot as to allow it to be closed fifteen minutes after clearing, before the heat is reduced enoush to use it. This is called 5oaA:mg. Ifitisburnt down entirely to ashes, the oven may be used as soon as cleared. IToiu to knoio when an ovenis at the right heat. — An experienced cook will know without rules. For a novice, the follow’ing rules are ot some use in determining; If the black spots in the oven are not burnt off, it is not hot, as the bricks must all look red. If you sprinkle flour on the bottom, and it burns quickly, it is too hot. If you cannot hold your hand in longer than to count twenty moderately, it is hot enough. If you can count thirty moderately, it is hot enough for bread. These last are not very ac- curate tests, as the power to bear heat is so di- verse in different persons, but they are as good rules as can be given, where there has been no experience. How to know when bread u sour or heavy. — If the bread is sour, on opening it quick and deep- ly with your fingers, and applying the nose to the opening, a tingling and sour odor escapes. This is remedied b) takinjr a tea spoon full of saleratus for every four quarts of flour, very tho- roughly dissolved in hot water, which is to be put in a hole made in the middle, and very tho- roughly kneaded in, or there will be yellow streaks. If the bread is light and not sour, it will, on opening it deep and suddenl3q send forth a pungent and brisk, but not a sour odor, and it will look full ofholes, like sponge. Some may mistake the smell of light bread for that of sour bread, but a little practice will show the differ- ence very plaiily. If the bread is light before the oven is ready, knead it a little without ad- ding flour, and set it in a cool place. If it rises too much, it loses all sweetness, and nothing but care and experience will prevent this. The bestof flour will not make sweet bread, if it is allowed to rise too much, even when no sour- ness is induced. How to treat breoA when taken from the oven. — Never set it flat on a table, as it sweats the bot- tom, and acquires a bad taste from the table. Always take it out of the tins, and set it up end way, leaning against something. It it has a thick, hard crust, wrap it in a cloth wrung out ot cold water. Keep it in a tin box, in a cool place, where it will not freeze. YEAST. The article in which yeast is kept must, when new yeast is made, or fresh yeast bought, be scalded and emptied, and then have a salt spoon full ot saleratus put in, and be rinsed out again with warm water. If it is glass, rinsing twice with warm water will answer. Junk bottles are best for holding yeast, because they can be corked tight, and easily cleansed. Potato Yeast. — By those who use potato yeast, it is regarded as much the best, as it raises bread quicker than common home-brewed yeast, and, best.of all, never imparts the sharp, dis- agreeable yeast taste to bread or cake, often given by hop yeast. Mash half a dozen peeled, boiled potatoes, and mi.x in a hand full of wheat flou', ar.d two tea spoons full of salt, and alter putting it through a colander, add hot water tid it is a batter. When blood warm, put in a half a tea cup of distillery yeast, cf twice as much potato or other home-brewed. When raised, keep it corked tight, and make it new very of- ten in hot weather. It can be easily made when potatoes are boiied lordinner. Honie-raoAe yeast, which wiV keep good a month. — Four quarts ot water, two hands full of hops, eight peeled potatoes, sliced, all boiled soft, mixed and strained through a sieve. To this add a batfer, made one-third of Indian and two- thirds of rye, in a pint of cold water, and then boil the whole ten minutes. When cool as new milk, add a tea cup of molasses, a table spoon full ot ginger, and a tea cup of distillery yeast, or twice as much home-brev/ed. Home brewed yeast more easily m.ade. — Boil a hand full ot hops half an hour in three pints of water. Pour half of it, boiling hot, through a sieve, on to nine spoons full of flour, mix, and then add the rest of the hop water. Add a spoon lull of salt, half a cup of molasses, and when blood warm, a cup of yeast. Hardyeast. — This is often very convenient, especially lor hot weather, when it isdifficult to keep yeast. Take some ot the best yeast you can make, and thicken it with Indian meal, and if you have rye, add a little to make it adhere better. Make it into cakes an inch thick, and three inches by two in size, and dry it in a dry- ing wind, but not in the sun. Keep it tied in a bag, in a dry, cool place where it will not freeze. One of these cakes is enough for four quarts of flour. When you wish to use it, put it to soak in milk or water for several hours, and then ufe it like other yeast. Rubs, or flour hard yeast. — This is better than hardyeast made with Indian. Take two quarts ot best home-brewed yeast, and a table spoon full of salt, and mix in wdieat flour, so that it will be in hard lumps. Set it in a dry, warm place, (but not in the sun,) till quite dry. Then leave out the fine parts to use the next baking, and put up the lumps in a bag, and hang it in a dry place. In using this yeast, take a pint of the rubs for six quarts of flour, and let it soak from noon till nignt. Then wet up the bread to bake next day. Brew'er’s and distillery yeast cannot be trusted to make hard yeast. Home- brewed is the best, and some housekeepers say the only yeast for this purpose. Milk yeast. — One pint of new milk, and one tea spoon full of fine salt, one large spoon full of flour; mix, and keep it blood warm an hour. Use twice as muchas the commonyeast. Bread soon spoils made of this. BREAD. Wheat bread of ddstillery, or brewer's yeast. — Take eight quarts of flour and two of milk, a table spoon lull of salt, a gill and a half of dis- tillery yeast, and sometimes rather more, if not first rate. Take double the quantity of home- brewed yeast. Silt the flour, then make an opening in the middle, pour in a part of the wet- ting, and put in the salt. Then mix in a good part of the flour. Then pour in the yeast, and mix it well. Then add the rest ot the wetting, using up the flour, so as to make a stiff" dough. Knead it hall an hour, till it cleaves clean from the hand. This cannot be wet over night, as, if the yeast is good, it will rise in one or two hours. Some persons like bread best wet with water, but most very much prefer bread wet with milk. It you have skimmed milk, warm it with a small bit of butter, and it is nearly as good as new milk. You need about a quart of wetting to four quarts of flour. Each quart of flour makes a common sized loaf. Wheat bread of home-brewed yeast. — Sift eight quarts of flour into the kneading tray, make a deep hole in the middle, pour into it a pint of yeast, mixed with a pint ot lukewarm water, and then work up this with the surrounding flour, till it makes a thick batter Then scatter a hand lull of flour over this batter, lay a warm cloth over the whole, and set it in a warm place. Tills is called sponge. When the sponge is risen so as to make cracks in the flour over it, (which will be in from three to five hours,) then scatter over it two table spoons full of salt, and pul in about two quarts of wetting, w’arm, but not hot enough to scald the yeast, and sufficient to wet it. Be careful not to put in too much of the wetting at once. Knead the whole thoroughly for as much as half an hour, then form it into a round mass, scatter a little flour over it, cover it, and set it to rise in a warm place. It usual- ly will take about one quart of wetting to four quarts of flour. In winter, it is best to put the bread in sponge over night, when it must be kept warm all night. In summer, it can be put in sponge early in the morning, for if made over night it would become sour. Baker's Bread. — Take a gill of distillery yeast, or twice as much fresh home-brewed yeast, add a quart of warm (not hot) water, and flour enough to make a thin batter, and let it rise in a warm place all night. This is the sponge. Next day, pul seven quarts of sifted flour into the kneading tray, make a hole jn the center, and pour in the sponge. J hen dissolve a bit of volatile salts, and a bit of alum, each the size of a hickory-nut, and finely powdered, in a little cold water, and add it with a heaping table spoon full of salt, to the sponge, and also a quart more of blood-warm water. Work up the flour and wetting to a dough, knead it well, divide it into three or four loaves, prick it with a fork, put it in buttered pans, and let it rise one hour, and then bake it about an hour. A’dd more flour, or more water, as you find the dough too stiff" or too soft. A tea spoon full of sale- ratus can be used instead of the volatile salts and alum, but it is not so good. Wheat bread of potato yeast,— This is made 162 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVAl’OR like bread made with home-brewed yeast, except that you may put in almost any quantity of the potatoe yeast without injury. Those who use potato yeast like it much better than any othei. The only objection to it is, that in summer it must be made olten, as it will not keep sweet long. But it is very easily renewed. The chiel advantage is, that it rises quick, and nev- er gives the sharp and peculiar taste so often imparted to bread and cake, by all yeast made with hops. Potato bread. — Rub a dozen peeled boiled po- tatoes through a very coarse sieve, and mix with them twice the quantity of flour, mixing very thoroughly. Put in a coffee cup lull of home-brewed, or ol potato yeast, or half as much of distillery yeast ; also, a tea spoon full of salt. Add whatever water may be needed to make a dough as stiff as lor common flour bread. An ounce or two of butter rubbed into the flour, and an egg beat and put into the yeast, and you can have fine rolls or warm cakes for breakfast. This kind ol bread is very moist, and keeps welh Easternbrownbread. — One quart of rye; two quarts of Indi n meal ; if fresh and sweet, do not scald it, if not, scald it; half a teacup of molasses; two tea spocns full of salt; one tea spoon lull ofsaleratus; a tea cup of home- brewea yeast, or half as much distillery yeast ; make it as stiff' as can be stirred, with a spoon with warm water. Let it rise Irora night til) morning. Then put it in a large deep pan, and smooth the top with the hand dipped in cold wa- ter, and let it stand a while. Bake five or six hours. If put in late in the day, let it remain all night in the oven. Rye bread. — A quart of water, an 1 as much milk ; two tea spoons -full of salt, and a tea cup of Indian meal ; a tea cup lull of home-brewed yeast, or halt as much distillery yeast ; make it as stiff as wheat bread, with rye flour. Ru.e bread, No. pint of rice, boiled till soft ; two quarts of rice flour or wheat flour; a tea spoon full of salt; a tea cup of home- brewed, or hall as much distillery yeast ; milk to make it so as to mould liKe wheat bread. Rice bread, No. 2— Three halfpints of ground rice; two lea spoons full, not heaping, of salt ; two gills of home-brewed yeast ; three quarts of milk, or milk ana water ; mix the rice wiih cold milk and water to a thin gruel, and boil it three minutes ; then stir in wheat flour till as stiff as can bestirred with a spoon. When blood warm, add the yeast. This keeps moist longer than No. 1. Bread of unbolted wheat, or Graham bread.—- Three pints of warm water; one tea cup full of Indian 'meal, and one ol wheat flour; three great spoons full of molasses, or a tea cup ol brown sugar; one tea spoon full cl salt, and one tea spoon lull of saleratus, dissolved in a little hot water; one tea cup of yeast ; mix the above, and stir in enough unbolted wheat flour to make it as stiff as you can work with a spoon. Some put in enough to mould it to loaves. Try both. If made with home-brew- ed yeast, put it to rise over night. If wiih dis- tillery yeast, make it In the morning, and bake when light; in loaves the ordinary size; bake one hour and a half. Walnut HilVs brown bread.— Oae quart ol sour milk, and one tea spoon lull of salt ; one lea spoon full of pulverized saleratus, and one tea cup of molasses, put into the milk ; thick- en with unbolted wheat flour, and bake imme- diately, and you have first rate bread, with very little trouble.* BISCUITS. French rolls, or twists. -One quart of lukewarm milk; one tea spoon full of salt; a large tea cup of home-brewed yeast, or half as much dis- tillery yeast ; flour enough to make a stiff" bat- ter ; set it to rise, and when very light, work in one egg and two spoons full of butter, and knead in flour till stiflf enough to roll; let it rise again, and when very light, roll out, cut in strips, and brain it. Bake thirty minutes on buttered tins. Raised Biscuit. — Rub half a pour.d of but'er into a pound of flour; one beaten egg; a tea spoon lull of salt ; two great spoons full of dis- tillery yeast, or twice as much home-brewed; wet it up with enough warm milk to make a soft dough, and then work in half a pound of butter ; when light, mould it into round cakes, or roll it out and cut it with a tumbler. Very nice rusk. — One pint of millk; one coffee cup of jeast, potato is best ; lour eggs; flour enough to make it as thick as you can stir with a spoon ; let it rise till veryWghi, but hesure it is not sour, if it is, work in half a tea spoon full of sale- ratus, dissolved in a wine glass of warm water ; when thus light, w'ork together three quarters of a pound of sugar and nine ounces of butter ; add more flour, if needed, to make it stiff enough to mould • let it rise again, and when very light, mould it into small cakes ; bake fifteen minutes in a quick oven, and alter taking it out, mix a little milk and sugar, and brush over the rusk, while hot, with a small swab of linen tied to a stick, and dry it in the oven. When you have weighed these proportions once, then measure the quantity; so as to save the trouble of weigh- ing afterward. W rite the measures in your re- cipe book, lest you forget. Potato Biscuit. — Twelve pared potatoes boil- ed soft and mashed fine, and two tea spoons full of salt; mix the potatoes and milk, add hall a tea cup of yeast, and flour enough to mould them well ; then work in a cup of butter ; when risen, mould them into small cakes, then let them stand in buttered pans fifteen minutes be- fore baking. Crackers. One quart of flour, with two ounces of butter rubbed in ; one teaspoon full of saleratus in a wine glass of warm water ; half a lea spoon full ol salt, and milk enough to roll it out; beat it half an hour with a pestel, cut it in thin round cakes, prick them, and set them in the oven when other things are taken out. Let them bake till crisp. Hard Biscuit.— One (lOdiVi of ^QUT, and half a tea spoon full of salt ; tour great spoons lull of butter rubbed into two-thirds of the flour; wet it up with milk till a dough; roll it out again and again, sprinkling on the reserved flour till all is used; cut into round cakes, and bake in a quick oven on buttered tins. Sour milk Biscuit.— A pint and a half of sour milk, or buttermilk; two tea spoons full of salt; two tea spoons full of saleratus dissolved in four great spoons full ol hot wmter; mix the milk in flour till nearly stiff' enough to roll, then put in the saleratus, and add more flour; mould up quickly, and bake immediately; shortening for raised biscuit or cake should always be worked in after it is wet up. A good way to use sour bread.— When a batch of bread is sour, let it stand till very light, and use it to make biscuit for tea or breakfast, thus; Work into a portion of it, saleratus dissolved in warm water, enough to sweeten it, and a lit- tle shortening, and mould it into small biscuits, bake it, and it is uncommonly good. It is so much liked that some persons allow bread to turn sour for the purpose. Bread can be kept on hand for this use ahy length of time. ’ From Chambers’ Edinburgh Journal. white and Brown Bread. Several years ago, we threw out the surmise that the separation of the while from the brown parts of wheat grain was likely to be baneful to health. We proceeded upon theoretical grounds, believing that Providence must have contem- plated our using the entire grain, and not a por- tion only; selected by meads of a nicely ar- ranged machinery. It struck us forcibly, that to go on, for a long course of years, thus using a kind of food different from what nature de- signed, could not fail to be attended with bad consequences. We have since learned that our views have some recognized support in science. The following paragraph from a recent pamph- let will at once serve to keep the subject alive in the minds of our readers, and explain the ac- tual grounds on which the separation of flour is detrimental : “ The general belief,” says the writer, “is that bread made with the finest flour is the best, and that whiteness is the proof df its quality ; but both these opinions afe popular errors. The whiteness may b? and generally is communicated by alum, to the injury of the consumer ; and it is known by men of science that the bread of unrefined flour will sustain lile, while that made with the refined will not. Keep a man on brown bread and water, and he will live and enjoy good health ; give him white bread and water only, and he will sicken and die. The meal of which the first is made con- tains all the ingredients necessary to the compo- sition ol nourishiPent to the various structures composing our bodies. Some of these ingredi- ents are removed by the miller in his efforts to please the public; so that fine flour, instead of being belter than the meal, is the least nourish- ing; and to make the case worse, it is also the most difficult of digestion. The loss is, there- fore, in all respects a waste; and it seems de- sirable that the admirers of white bread (but es- pecially the poor) should be acquainted with these truths, and brought to inquire whether they do not purchase at too deararate the privi- lege of indulging in the use of it. The unwise preference given so universally to white bread leads to the pernicious practice of mixing alum with the flour, and this again to all sorts of adulterations and impositions; for it enabled bakers, who were so disposed, by adding more and more alum, to make bread made from the flour of an inferior grain look like the best or most costly, and to dispose of it accordingly ; at once defrauding the purchaser, and tamper- ing with his health. Among the matters re- moved by the miller are the large saline sub- stances, which are indispensable to the growth of the bones and teeth, and are required, al- though in a less degree, for daily repair. Brown bread should therelore be given to nurses and to the young or the growing, and should be prefer- red bv all, of whatever age, whose bones show a tendency to bend, or who have weak teeth. It is believed that brown bread will generally be found the best by all persons having sluggish bowels and stomachs, equal to the digestion of the bran; But with some it will disagree; for it is too exciting to irritable bowels, and is dis- solved with difficulty in some stomachs. "When this happens, the bran should be removed either wholly or in part; and by suck means, the bread may be adapted, with the greatest ease to all habits and all constitutions.” Mr. Smith, in his late remarkable work on Fruits and Fariuacea as the food of man, gives some illustrations of this doctrine. “ Bulk,” he says, “is nearly as necessary to the articles of diet as the nutrient principle. They should be so managed that one will be in proportion to the other. Too highly nutritive is probably as fatal to the prolongation of life and health, as that which contains an insufficient quan- tity ol nourishrr>ent. It is a matter ol common remark among old whalemen, that, during long voyages, the coarser their bread, the better their health ‘ 1 have followed the seas for thirty-five years,’ said an intelligent sea captain to Mr. Graham, ‘ and have been in almost every part of the globe: and 1 have always found that the coarsest pilot-bread, which contains a conside- rable portion of bran, is decidedly the healthiest for my men.’ ‘I am convinced, from my own experience,’ says another captain, ‘that bread made of the unbolted wheat meal is far more wholesome than that made from the best super- fine flour — the latter always tending to produce constipation.’ Capt. Dexter, of the ship Isis, belonging to Providence, arrived from China in December, 1804. He had been about one hundred and ninety days on the passage. The sea-bread, which constituted the principal ar- ticle of food for his men, was made ol the best superfine flour. He had not been long at sea before his men began to complain of languor, loss of appetite, and debility. These difficul- ties continued to increase during the whole voy- 163 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR, age; and several of ihe hands died on ihe pas- sage ot debility and inanition. The ship was obligetl to come to anchor thirty miles below Providence; and such was the debility ot the men on bo.Hrd, that they were not able to gel the ship under weigh again, and the owners were un.ler the necessity of sending men down from Providence. When she arrived, the owners asked Capt. De.xter what was the cause cl the “sickness of liis men. He replied, “• The bread was too good.” From Colman’s Agricultural Tour, No. 5. Geaeral Rules for Plowing. The depth of plowing, the width of the fur- row-slice, the number of plowings which should be given to land, and the season at which it should be executed, depend on such a variety ot circumstances that it would be difficult to pre- scribe any universal rules. The objects of plowing are, to loosen the soil and to render it permeable to the roots of plants that they may extend themselves for nourish- ment and support; to make it accessible to the air and tain, from which, according to modern theories, it gathers both oxygen and ammonia for the food of plants; and lastly, to give an op- portunity ot incorporating manures with the soil for their support and growth. It has ano- ther object, of course, where greensward is turn ■ ed over, which is, to bury the herbage then on the ground, and substitute other plants. The depth ot plovving var ies in different soils and for different purposes. The average depth may be considered as five inches, but no direc- tion on this subject will be found universally applicable. Three of the most eminent practi- cal farmers with whom I am acquainted here, plow not more than three inches; but the sur- face mould in these cases is very thin, and the under stratum is a cold, clammy chalk. One farmer whose cultivation is successlul, and who cultivates “ a light, poor, thin, moory soil, wi.h a subsoil of either blue or white clay, peat, or white gravel,” carefully avoids breaking up the cold subsoil, and cuts up the sward with a breast plow, which is a kind of paring spade , and af- ter burning the turf and spreading the ashes with a due application of artificial manu-re, consisting of equal quantities of lime, wood and turf ashes, at the rate of sixty bushels to the acre, and sowing turnip seed, cultivates be- tween the rows with a single horse plow, which cannot, of course, take a deep furrow. The second year of the course, when he sows wheat, he plows it very lightly with a horse, after hav ing first breast-plowed it, so as thoroughly to cover in the manure which the sheep who have been folded upon the land have left upon it. The third year it is breast-plowed, sown in tur- nips, and cultivated between the rows with a horse, as belore described. The fourth year it is simply breast-plowed for barley. The filth and SIX years it is in grass. Thus, in the whole course of a si^ years’ rotation, this land is only plowed four times by men, and three times with a single horse plow. Another farmer in the same neighborhood says that, upon this descrip- tion of land, any other than the breast-plow would not leave the ground sufficiently firm for wheat. Mr. Pusey, M. P., whose excellently managed farm 1 have had the pleasure of re- peatedly going over, in remarking on the above accounts, says, “occupying similar land, I may add that I never plow it deeply but I repent of so doing, and am falling more and more each year, by the advice of neighboring farmers, in- to the use of the breast-plow, instead of the horse-plow. This manual labor is quite as cheap, for a good workman can pare such hol- low tender land at 4s., or even 3s. per acre. It is possible that the drought of our climate in Gloucestershire and Berkshire, may be one cause of the success of this practice in those counties, and that the same soil if transferred to Westmoreland, would require deeper working. Therefore, without recommending shallow cul- tivation in districis where deep plowing has been hitherto practiced, I would merely warn beginners against plunging recklessly into the subsoil.” i hese examples are certainly well worth considering. I do not understand that these practices at all miliiate against the doc- trine of the ad vantages to be obtained from sub- soiling. In cases where subsoiling and tho- rough draining are not applied, this shallow plowing may be preferred, as the mingling of the cold ami inert subsoil with so thin a surface ot vegetable mould would doubtless be prejudi- cial, at least fir a length of time; but the im- provement of such land by a system of thorough draining and subsciling is another matter to which 1 shall refer in its proper place. There are considerable tracts of this moorish land — that is, a thin, black, coarse peat, not half de- composed, resting upon a cold and hard pan of gravel or clay, or what some persons have rais- Faken for marl, in Massachusetts and other parts ol the country, the improvement of which, so far as my experience has gone, has been al- most hopeless. While upon this subject, 1 may as w'ell give the results of the management of the first farm- er referred to, and therefore subjoin them. “By this mode of management an economical sys- tem is follo'ved up through the whole course, by being nearly all performed by manual labor, by which means a remunerating crop will be produced, and the land always kept firm, which is the only difficulty to be overcome on this de- scription of soil. The farm when first taken by me was wet; as much out of condition, and as light and weak as it well could be— parts of it being merely held together by the roots of grass and weeds natural to moory land, but which must be very prejudicial to the produc- tion of those crops that are to benefit the farm- er. I commenced by draining, and then pur- sued the foregoing system ot cultivai ion, by which my most sanguine expectations have been realized, though I was told 'hat the land would be too light and too poor to plant wheat after turnips. I have never found any ill ef- fects from paring and burning, experience hav- ing taught me that it produces a manure par- ticularly beneficial to the growth of turnips ; thereby enabling me to firm the land by sheep.” This farmer speaks or performing a great por- tion ot his work with manual labor. I think some part of it might rather be called pedestri- an than manual; lor, if he plow's his land by men he treads it out by women. He says, “ be- fore the horse-roll can be used, I send women to tread it, and if occasion require, tread it again, after which, I have it iw'ice hoed. I have found more benefit from this mode ol pressing than any other, being done at a time when wheat, on this description of soil, requires assistance.”* I have found other farmers, who, w'ith their wheat crops on light, chalky soils, plowed in a very shallow manner, and then were accustom- ed to tread their land with sheep, in order to give the wheat plant a firmer footing ; as, other- wise, in a veiy light soil, it might be thrown out by the wind. These cases, however, must all be deemed exceptiuiis, and the general rule in England, where the soil admits ol it, and ma- nure is abundant, is that of rather deep plowing. Five or six inches is the average depth, in ma- nycases much more than this. The loam, or vegetable mould, is, wilhoui question, the great source or medium of nourishment to the plants. Be it niore or less deep, it is always safe to go to the bottom ol this, and, by gradually loosen- ing a portion of the subsoil or lower stratum. * Tin’s is a use lo which women have not as yet been put in our “ half-civilized” country. I dare say, how- ever, many persons think that it is very well to make such clever animals serviceable; their “keep,” agri- culturally speaking, is somewhat expensive ; and, as they have their share in the pleasure of consuming, they may as well lake their part in the labor of pro- ducing. Whatever any persons may think, however, 1 will say no such uncivil thing ; but since the celebra- ted danseuse Fanny Ellsler, returned from the United States, after a two years’ tour, with a gain of twenty thousand pounds, or one hundred thousand dollars, it cannot be denied that the Americans are quiie willing to pay for the use of women’s feet — in a way, we ad- mit, more elegant, tasteful and classical, but certainly not more respectable, and not half as useful, as that of treading the wheal ground. and incorporating it with the mould, and render- ing it accessible to the air and light, it acquires the r attire of mould, and the whole arable sur- face is enriched. The deeper the soil the more deeply the roots are permitted to descend, and the more widely they are enabled to spread themselves— unless they penetrate a substratum unhealthy from wet or the too great prevalence of some unfavorable m ineral substances — so u’luch the more luxuriant and productive is the vegetation likely to prove. The depth to which the roots of plants will go down in search of food or moisture, where the soil is in a condi- tion to be penetrated by them is much greater than a superficial observation would induce us to suppose. It is confidently asserted that the roots of some plants— such, for example, as lucerne and sainfoin — go to a depth of fifteen, twenty, and even thirty feet. This seems scarce- ly credible. Red clover is known to extend its roots to the depth ol three feet, and wheat to the depth of two or three feet, where the condition of the soil is favorable to their extension. Von Thaer, the distinguished agriculturist, says, “he has pulled carrots two and a half feet long, the tap-root of which was probably another loot in length.” The tap-root of a Swedish turnip has been known to extend thirty-nine inches; the roots of Indian C-Tn lull six feet. These statements may appear extraordinary; but, by the free and loose texture of the soil, it is obvi- ous a good hnsbandman will give every oppor- tunity tor the root® and their extremely fine fi- bres, to extend themselves as far as their in- stincts may prortipt them. Next to the depth of plowing the width of the furrow-slice is to be considered. This, of course, depends mainly upon the cons'ruction of the plow. A plow with a wide sole or base, in the hands ot a skillful plowman, may be made to cut a narrow furrow-slice; but a nar- row soled plow cannot be made to cut a wide lurrow-slicej though it may sometimes appearlo do so by leaving a part of the ground unturned, which the furrow-slice is made to cover. Where, as in old plowed land, the object is solely to leave the ground loose and light, it is advisable to take a very narrow furrow. Where, other- wise, the object is lo move greensward or stub- ble ground, and to cover in the vegetable mat- ter, such a width of furrow must be taken as w'ill cause ihe slice, as it is raised by the share, to turn over easily. This width may generally be reckoned at nearly twice the depth, though less will answer; but a furrow-slice of equal sides w'ould not turn but stand on end. The manner in which the furrow-slice will be turned depends somewhat upon the form of the mould- board, but more, in general, upon the skill of the plowman. Two modes are adopted; the one to lay the furrow-slice entirely flat, shut- ting its edge exactly in by the edge of its neigh- bor; the other, to lay it at an inclination of 45 degrees, lapping the one upon the other. The former mode, where land is to be sown with grass seed, and, as the phrase is with us, laid down, is undoubtedly to be preferred. Perhaps, in any case where a grain crop is lo be cultiva- ted it should be preferred, as its beneficial ef- fects have been well tested in the United States. IntheUni'ed States, however, from a higher temperature, the vegetable matter thus pressed down may be expected sooner to be decompos- ed, and thus sooner furnish a pabulum for the growing plants, than in a climate where, in a much low'er and more even temperature, the decomposition cannot be expected to take place so rapidly. lu other cases, and for vegetable crops— 1 mean in contra-distinction to grain crops— a different mode of plowing, that is, lay- ing the furrow-slices one upon the other at an angle of 45 degrees, or hall turned over, would leave the ground more loose, as well as expose a larger surface of the inverted soil to be en rich- ed by the air. In this way, by harrowing and rolling, the vegetable matter will be completely buried.” This mode oi plowing is evidently preferred throughout the country, as I have sel- dom seen the sward completely inverted and laid flat, though! know the practice prevails in 164 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR some counties. To avoid having any of the grass protrude itself between the lurrow-slices, they have here what I have never seen in the United States, a skim-coulter, that i», a minia- ture plowshare, or blade, placed under the beam and so adjusted as to cut an edge from the fur- row-slice as it is turned over ; this piece so cut off, at once dropping down, and being buried under the lurww-slice as it goes over. The consequence fc, that there is no grass on the edge of the furrow-slice to show itself, and great neatness is therefore given to the whole work. There is another mode of plowing which I have sometimes seen practiced, by which the furrow-slice is not merely lifted, but may be said to be rolled over, or twisted in a sort of bag-fashion. This seemed to me to be principally owing to the concave form of the mould-board, for no workman could have done it with a straight or convex form of mould- board. It would seem to render the soil more friable and loose j but every departure from a straight line, or wedge form of the mould- board, evidently much increases the draught. The skim-coulter to which i have referred above, somewhat increases the draught, but in a very small degree. The great object of the English farmers in plowing seems to be the thorough pulverization of the soil, and they are therefore very seldom satisfied with one plowing, but their land is re- peatedly plowed, scarified and harrowed. They cross-plow their land, and think it desirable to reduce the sward land to a fine tilth, tearing it to pieces, and bringing all the grass and roots, and rubbish to the surface, that they may be ra- ked up and burned or carried to the manure heaps. The propriety of this practice is, in my mind, quite questionable. It would seem to me much better to turn the sward completely over, and then cultivate on the top of it, without dis- turbing the grass surface, leaving that, when thus turned over, to a gradual decomposition, that it might in this way supply food to the growing crop, whereas the abstraction of so much vegetable matter must greatly diminisfc the resources of the soil. Where, however, the field is infested with twitch grass {iriticum repens') — in which, indeed, many of the fields in England abound to a most extraordinary extent — there may be no getting rid of it but by actu- ally loosening and tearing it out; but where it is a mere clover ley, or an old grass pasture or meadow, the taking out and removing the ve- getable matter seems to be a serious waste. Even the twitch might be managed where the crop is to be hoed, though in grain crops, its pre- sence is extremely prejudicial. Nutritive Properties of Peas and Beans* Experience and observation induced us, long since, to form a very favorable opinion of ihe nourishing properties of peas and beans. The hardy lumbermen of Maine, in laying in a stock of provisions for their wintersupport, while en- gaged in cutting down the forest, never fail to secure a large supply of these articles; and we have been repeatedly assured by men engaged in that laborious business, that their ability to labor was greater when their food consisted, in a large degree, of peas and beans, seasoned with fat pork, than when feeding on other sub- stances. Oats and peas are known in some pans of our country, as forming the very best food for hard ■working horses. And we have formed, also, a favorab'e opinion of peas and beans for fatten- ing. We cannot, however, say that their value is not greater for laboring, than for fattening animals — as chemical analysis seems to indi- cate— but we know that sheep have been fatten- ed rapidly on beans and bean meal, and we have often seen hogs well fattened on meal of oats and peas ground together in the proportion of one part peas to two of oats, by measure ; which would make the proportion by weight about equal. We have never heard any objec- tion tothe quality of pork so made. But we think careful experiments are neces- sary to show the relative value of peas and beans compared with other substances, (Indian corn, for example,) in feeding different animals for difierent purposes. If peas and beans are, as contended by some chemists, better than corn for the production, of wool, let it be practically demonstrated:; if corn is belter for making mut- ton, let it be shown— let us have facts^ and no theories but what are based on them. The value of peas and beans for human food is strongly set forth in the following extracts, which we take from an article by Dr. Buckland, published in an English paper. He remarks that the seeds of leguminous plants, “especial- ly peas and beans, are loaded with the constitu- ents of muscle and bone ready prepared to form and maintain the muscular fibre of the body of animals.” “ Hence,” he says, “the rapid re- storation of the shrunk muscle of the exhaust- ed post-horse by a good feed of oats and beans. Hence the sturdy growth of the Scotch children on oat cake and porridge, and of broth made of the meal of parched or kiln-dried peas; on this a man can live, and do good work, for l^d. a day; while the children of the rich, ■who are pampered on the finest wheat flour, (without the pollard or bran,) and on sago, rice, butter and sugar, become tat and sleek, and would often die, as sometimes they do, from such non-nutri- tious food, but for the mixture of milk and eggs they eat in cakes and puddings, “An old laborer at Atbridge complained to his master, Mr. Symons, (who died in 1844,) that laborers feeding now on potatoes, could not do so good a day’s work as when he was young, and when they fed on peas. ‘ Peas, sir,’ said he, ‘stick to the ribs.' He uttered the very truth of organic chemistry. “In beans we have vegetable ‘ caseine,’ or the peculiar element of cheese. What is more restorative or more grateful toman, when fa- tigued by labor or a long walk? As we heat or toast it, it melts, and ere it reaches our mouth, is drawn into strings of almost ready made fibre; and who has ever dined so fully as not to have room left for a little bit of cheese. “ What is so restorative as beans to the jaded hack or the exhausted racehorse? Sepoys on long voyages live exclusively on peas. The working and healthy man and beast want mus- cle, and not fat ; fat encumbers and impedes activity, andever> excess of it is disease. We seldom see a fat laborer or a fat soldier, except among the sergeants, who sometimes eat or drink too much. “Charcoal, which, next to w'ater, forms the chief ingredient in potatoes, is subsistency to life, though not to strength. The same is true of the charcoal, which is the main ingredient ol rice, sago, sugar, butter and fat. The wo- man atTutbury, who pretended to last for many days and weeks, sustained life by secretly suck- ing handkerchiefs charged wiih sugar or starch. During the manufacturers’ distress in Lanca- shire, five years ago, many ol the poor remain- ed in bed covered with blankets, where warmth and the absence of exercise lessened materially the need of food. When Sir John Franklin and his polar party travelled on snow nearly a fort- night without food, they fell no pain or hunger alter the second day; they became lean and weak by severe exercise and cold, but sustained lile by drinking warm water and sleeping in blankets with their feet round a fire. Alas, a knowledge of such facts may become needful and useful in the approaching winter. “ It has already been stated, that the most nu- tritious of all vegetable food is the flour of peas, which was the staple food in Europe before po- tatoes, The flour of kiln-dried peas stirred in hot water makes a strong and pleasant Scotch brose, on which alone a man may do good work. Barrels of peas brose flour may be brought from Scotland, or prepared in England wherever there is a malt-kiln. “In England, pea-soup and peas pudding are still a common and most nourishing lood. Our fore-fathers and their children, we know, from nursery rhymes, ate ‘Peas pudding hot, peas pudding cold, Peas pudding in the pot and nine days old.’ “ Let US lor a part of this and next year once live as they lived 300 years ago. , Boiled or fried slices of peas pudding are not unsavory food; and what boy would not prefer parched peas to nuts? “Oat cake is the bread of all Scotland, and of much of Ireland, and of the north of England; and oafraeal made into broth and porridge, is the universal and almost the only food of high- land children Let those who have quailed un- der the charge of a highland regiment tell the results. “Bread made of rye is the chief food of far- mers and laborers in Germany and the north of Europe; it is of a dark color, and little used with us, but it is very nourishing, and in time ol scarcity is a good substitute lor wheat, “ Indian corn or maize is the food of man ov- er a large part of the world, and makes bread and cakes, not very palatable to us, but belter than nothing ! in time of scarcity.” Dr. B. places a low value on our much es- teemed Indian corn— admitting only that it makes “bread and ca'kes” which are “better than nothing in times of scarcity.” The taste lor different articles of food is undoubtedly form- ed in a great degree by habit. The Esquimaux relish the raw flesh and blubber of the seal — our American Indians their parched corn and bear’s oil— the Scotchman his broth of oats or peas, or bread made from those articles — while we in this country, who have duly learned the “ art and mystery” of cooking corn, consider it equally as “palatable” as any other ailicle oi bread-stuffs.— paper. [From the Olive Branch ] Green Crops. The subject ol turning in green crops as a means of enriching lands, has already been so frequently and ably discussed in most of our agricultural publications, that any allusion to its propriety at this time may appear absurd. Yet there are some points connected with the theory in which this practice is based, that it may not be improper to dwell upon, especially as the rationale of the system appears to be somewhat obscure to most minds, or involved in the intricacy of the principle which many of our farmers do not appear fully to understand. That the mere turning in of a crop should ac- tually conduce to the fertility of the soil on which it has grown, is what many have found it difficult to believe. There is, indeed, a diffi- culty with many in supposing that plants can actually grow and be matured without exhaus- tion of the soil which they contemplate as the only and sole medium through which all plants derive their nutriment, and to which, conse- quently, the plarits or vegetables so grown, can return no more paiwfrm than they receive. The vegetable physiologist, however, assumes a widely different position in relation to this im- portant point. He recognises the vegetable kingdom as divided into three grand and distinct orders or classes, and characterizes them, ac- cording to their different modes or habits of growth, by the three distinctive appellations of terrestrial, aquatic and ccrial; the first compri- sing that extensive order, the individuals of which are indigenous to dry and arable lands, and which derive the most important part of their pasturage Ircm the soil; — the second em- braces all plants to which the classical appella- tion aquatic mtiy justly be regarded as belong- ing, whether they be in their nature strictly ma- rine or submarine; — the third division con- tains only such as are known to derive a large portion of their subsistence, or the whole of it, from the air, and which are not, or appear not to be sensibly influenced by the nature of the soil to which they are confined. To illustrate each of these orders bj adistinct reference to individual plants would require more space than we have at present to devote. It will be necessary, however, to say that in se- lecting crops to be turned in, those ought in- variably to be preferred which derive their sus- tenance principally Ircin l;.e air. A slight THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 165 knowledge of botany and the physiology of plants will be amply sufficient to direct tht operator aright in this matter, and to unfold to him some of the complicated system of laws by which the beautiful and wonderful economy of vegetable nutrition is so admirably governed and controlled. “Nature isa skilful worknaan,” and orders every thing so as best to subserve the great and important purpose for which it was designed— the welfare and happiness of man. Of the many crops usually selected by our farmers, for this purpose, buckwheat, peas and clover are probably in best repute, ft may here be further remarked, that all plants of the culmiferous character, or which are distinguish- ed by a profusion of broad and expansive fo- liage, are those which derive the largest portion of their nutriment from the air; — those plants having small leaves, being considered gross feed- ers, and consequently powerful exhausters of the soil. During the last ten years, the practice of turn- ing in green crops, has been extensively adopt- ed, and so far as our knowledge extends, attend- ed with the best results. Old worn out fields, which hardly repaid the cost of cultivation, have, by this means, been thoroughly renovated, and at a less cost than they could have been in any other way. In traversing through the country, we often seen farms which have been reduced by an erroneous and emasculating pro- cess of cultivation, to the state of barren heath. These, by turning in the slight vegetation they produce and following up the plan with a dress- ing of either of the above named crops, in their most juicy and succulent state, with afew bush- els of caustic lime to promote fermentation, and correct the acidity always to a greater or less degree traceable in such soils, would en- due them with a degree of productive energy that would render them fertile for years. “ ’Tis folly in the extreme to till Extensive fields and till them ill ; Shrewd common sense sits laughing by, And sees your hof^s abortive, die. For more one fertile acre yields, Than the huge breadth of barren fields.” The most proper time for turning in every species of green crop is w’hen the plants are in bloom. Some writers have recommended de- ferring the operation till the crop has become matured, but this is contrary to the dictates of experience, though the result may, in some ca- ses, have been attended with success, VV. From the American Quarterly Journal. Experiments on So^Tiug Corn for Fodder. It is not often in these advancing days of knowledge in farming, that we find a series of experiments conducted with more accuracy than were those which follow. I have procur- ed them from the son of the farmer who con- ducted them, and the notes are the original ones in the hand-writing of the farmer himself. I wish it were more common for our farmers to make accurate memoranda of everything they do. But to the experiments. They are as fol- lows: 1. On the Istof June, 18’23, S. B. sowed in a drill bird corn, very thick, on account ol its smallness. The kernels were sown about one inch apart, or, in other words, one kernel to one inch square. The size of the bed sown was9i feet by 3 feet. The prod uce was cut on the 25th of August, and weighed fifty pounds in the green state. The proportionate produce per acre would be 34 24-100 tons, green fodder.. One month after, say about the 20th of Sep- tember, the product weighed, when perfectly dry, 17| pounds, which would give per acre about 12 tons dry fodder. This kind of Indian corn is called bird corn, and half a pint contains 2,400 kernels, or 307,200 to the bushel. One quart will sow 66 square feet, and it contains 9,600 kernels, Rhode Island corn is next best, and contains 566 kernels to the half pint. One quart con- tains 2,264, and will sow sixteen square feet. Eight rowed corn is next, half a pint contain- ing 580 kernels; quart, 2,320 kernels, and will sow 16 square feet. Next is flour corn, halfa pint containing 360 kernels; one quart, 1,440 kernels, and will sow ten feet square. Southerner gourd seed corn ranks the same as this exactly. 2. Friday, May 29th, 1820. Sowed 19 quarts of flour corn on 150 square feet of ground. It yielded 14 bundles of corn fodder, which weigh- ed 58 pounds. It was cut on the 8th of Sep- tember, and secured on the 4th of October. Yield per acre, 7 tons, 10 cwt,, 1 qr., 15 lbs. 3. Friday, May 29th, 1829, Sowed 8 quarts of Southern or gourd seed coru on 150 square feet of ground. It yielded 9 bundles, which weighed 38 pounds. It was cut on the 8th of September, and secured on the 4th of October. The yield per acre was 4 tons, 18 cwt., 2 qrs., 3 lbs. 4. May 30th, 1829. Sowed eight rowed white corn on 130 square feet ol ground. Gathered 12 bundles, which weighed 51 pounds. It was cut on the §th of September, and secured Octo- ber 4th. Yield per acre, 7 tons, 12 cwt,, 2 qrs., 8 lbs. in this experiment the quantity sown is not mentioned, but' was probably the same as in the 2J experiment. 5. June 12th, 1830. Sowed 3 bushels of tall corn for fodder, on apiece of land 92 by 32 feet. Cut on the 1st of September, Gross weight, 1 ton, 10 cwt., 0 qr., 16 lbs. Neat weight 579 lbs. The weather was very dry from the I2th of June to the 1st of September, which is 2 months, 18 days. 1 am confident it was not near half a crop. II it had been sown earlier it would have been better. I will here add one thing more from the note book of this farmer, for he seems to have been rather a curious man. May 3, 1832. Counted the grains or kernels in half a pint of broom corn. They are 4,850 or 1,241,600 in a bushel. Now how easy it would be for every farmer to keep a little note book, in which he could put down anything he does, and preserve it for the benefit of others. It would produce habits of confidence in himself, and encourage such ha- bits in others, Every boy and girl brought up on a farm should be obliged every day to note down everything they do, and at night to make up a full journal of the whole day’s operations. By this course they would soon become intelli- gent and observing. From the Farmers’ Library. Cattle Trade. The curious fact in swineology is affirmed by a Kentucky drover, that his hogs which weigh- ed one hundred and fifty at starting, reached an average of one hundred and eighty on arriving at New York — being nearly half a pound a day while on the journey. On the other hand, the loss of weight— or “drift,” as it is called — of cattle is equal to one hundred and fifty pounds, which a bullock of one thousand pounds weight at leaving home, lessens on his way to the At- lantic butcher. This drift, or loss, it is observ- ed, is chiefly first in the kidney and fat of the entrails. It has been ascertained that a hog will set out on his journey to that bourne whence no such traveller returns, so lat as to have no cavi- ty or vacuum in his corporation. If, as he jour- neys on, you don’t feed him, he lives first upon and consumes his gut fat, then his kidney fat, and, lastly, his carcass wastes away, In driving cattle^ tlie practice is to stop (but not to feed) for an hour at mid-day, when the cattle, in less than five minutes, all lie down to rest, A drove of one hundred and twenty cattle, as easily driven as a smaller number, is usually attended by a “ manager”' on horseback and two footmen. One footman goes ahead, leading an ox the whole way, say eight hundred miles. The manager on horseback takes his station be- hind the first forty head, and the third man on foot brings up the rear. There are stations along the whole route— country taverns, often ' teptby the owner of the adjoining farm, who ^us finds a market for his own produce, and %eps at any rate a constant supply of what is needed for the drover. Wending their way through Ohio, the farmer supplies them with that glorious plant, the pride of oar country, In- dian corn, as they have feasted on it at home, stalk, blade and grain altogether; but, when on their melancholy journey, they touch the line of Pennsylvania, Mynheer brings forth his fragrant hay and corn already shucked, and finally, when they come late enough to market they are turned at night into grass lots, prepared and kept for the purpose. The cattle reared in the corn regions of the West, especially in Ohio and Kentucky, have been heavily dashed with the short horn blood, by which their average weight has been in- creased, it is said, about two hundred pounds, with great improvement in their fattening pro- perties and the quality of the meat. A Kentucky farmer would now be very loth to let a bull of the much vaunted old Bakewell breed, w’ith his straight back and long horns and fat all to itself overlaying the carcass, come within a ten foot pole ol his herd of cows. Cat- tle with a strong infusion of the improved short horn blood, as by the late celebrated grazier, Steenbergen, are still esteemed to be preferable to the full blood, as being more thrifty and ac- tive. For obvious reasons, cattle are not so much transported on railroads in this country as in England, where the distances from the feeding place to the market are so much shorter. Cattle will go very well on a railroad for 12 hours together, but then they must lie down, which they cannot do in the cars like a bog, that lets himself down and sleeps on the space upon which he stands. The charge, too, oh the rail- roads in aur country is too high. For lame bul- locks that are sometimes sent from Harrisburg to the Philadelphia market, they charge half as much as it costs to drive them all the way— se- ven hundred and fifty or eight hundred miles — from Kentucky to New York— the one being $8, the other estimated at about $16, ' The last of the Western cattle arrive in New York about the 1st of August, when they are driven out ot the market by the grass-fed herds of more neighboring regions. The cost of road expenses of a drove of one hundred head from Kentucky is about $1500. Some of the latter droves come in on grass at a less expense; but, as before intimated, the decline or “ drift,” is greater than when fed on hay and corn, and the beef not so good. Agricultural Chemistry. No manure can be taken up by the roots of plants, unless water is present; and water or its elements exists in all the products of vegeta- tion. The germination of seeds does not take place without the presence of air or oxygen gas. Plants are found by analysis to consist prin- cipally of charcoal and aeriform matter. They give out by distillation volatile compounds, the elements of which are pure air, coally matter, inflammable air, and azote, or the elastic sub- stance which forms a part of the atmosphere, and which is capable ol supporting combustion. These elements they gain either by their leaves from the air, or by their roots from the soil. All manures from organized substances con- tain the principles ol vegetable matter, which, during putrefaction, are rendered either soluble in water or aeriform— and in these states, they are capable of being assimilated to the vegeta- ble organs. No one principle affords the pabu- lum ot vegetable life; it is neither charcoal nor hydrogen, nor azote, nor oxygen alone, but all of them together, in various states and various combinations. Plants require only a certain quantity of ma- nure, and excess may be detrimental, and cannot be useful. Slaked lime was used by the Romans for ma- nuring the soil in which fruit trees grew. This we are informed by Pliny. 166 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. Nothing is more wanting in agriculture than experiments in which all the circumstances are minutely and scientifically detailed. This art will advance with rapidity in proportion as it becomes exact in its methods. Discoveries made in the cultivation of the earth are not merely for the time and country in which they are developed, but they may be considered as extending to future ages, and as ultimately lending to benefit the human race; as affording subsistence for generations yet to come; as multiplying lite, but likewise provid- ing for its enjoyment. Potatoes in general afford irom one-filth to one-seventh of their weight of dry starch. One-lourth part of the weight of the potato at least may be considered as nutritive matter. The principal consumption of the carbonic acid in the atmosphere, seems to be in affording nourishment to plants; and some of them ap- pear to be supplied with carbon chieffy trom this source. Carbonic acid gas is formed dur- ins fermentation, combustion, putrefaction, and a number of operations taking place upon the surface of the earth; and there is no other pro- cess known in nature by which it can be de- stroyed but by vegetation. It is usual to carry straw that can be employ- ed for no other purpose to the dunghill to fer- ment and decompose ; but it is worth experi- ment, whether it may not be more economical- ly applied when chopped small by a proper ma- chine, and kept dry until it is plowed in for the use of a crop. In this case, though it would decompose much more slowly and produce less effect at first, yet its influence would be much more lasting. Manures from animal substances in general require no chemical preparation to fit them for the soil. The great object of the farmer is to blend them with earthy constituents in a pro- per state of division, and to prevent their loo ra- pid decomposition. — Ex. Paper. Tlie Conversion of Vegetable Mcitter into Animal Substance. The following summary of the views ot chemists on this subject is extracted from Prof. Johnston’s lectures on Agricultural Chemistry. 1. It appears that all vegetables contain ready formed— that is, form during their growth from the food on which they live— these substances of which the parts of animals are composed. 2. That from the vegetable food v.^hich it eats, the animal draws directly and ready formed the materials of its body— phosphates to form the bones, gluten, &c., to build up its muscles, and oil to lay on in the form of fat. 3. That during the process of respiration, a full grown man throws oft from his lungs about 8 oz. and a cow or a horse five times as much, of carbon, every twenty-four hours; and that the main office of the starch, gum and sugar oi vegetable food, is to supply this carbon. 4. That muscles, bones, skin and liair under- go a certain necessary daily waste of substance, a portion of each being removed every day and carried out of the body in the excretions. The main function of the gluten, the phosphates, and the saline substances in the food of the full grown animal is to replace the portions of the body which are thus removed, and to sustain its original condition. Exercise increases this natural waste, and accelerates the breathing also, so as to require a larger sustaining supply of food, a larger quantity to keep the animal in condition. 5. That the fat of the body is generally de- rived from the fat of the vegetable food. In cases of emergency, it is probable that the fat may be formed in the animal from the starch or sugar of the food. 6. In the growing animal, the food has a dou- ble function to perform ; it must sustain and in- crease the body. Hence, if the animal be mere- ly increasing in fat, the food, besides what is ne- cessary to make up for the daily waste of vari- ous kinds, must also supply an additional pro- portion ot oil or fat. To the growing animal, on the other hand, it must supply also an addi- tional quantity of gluten lor the muscles, and of phosphates lor the bones. Hence, whatever tends to increase the sustaining quantity — and cold, exercise and. uneasiness do this — will tend in an equal degree to lessen the value of a giv- en weight of food, in adding to the weight of the animal’s body. To the pregnant and the milk cow the same remarks apply. The food is partly expended in the production ot milk, and the smaller and leaner the cow is, less food being required to sustain the body, the more will remain for the production ol milk. 7. Lastly, that the quantity and quality ot the dung, while they depend in part upon the kind of food with which the animal is fed, yet even when the same kind of food is given, are ma- terially affected by the purpose for which the animal is fed. If it be full grown and merely kept in condition, the dung contains all that was present in the food, except the carbon that has escaped from the lungs. If it be a growing ani- mal, then a portion of the phosphates and gluten of the food are retained to add to its bones and muscles, and hence the dung is something less in quantity, and considerably inferior in qual- ity, to that ot the full grown animal, So it is in the case of the milk cow, which consumes comparatively little in sustaining her own body, but exhausts all the food that passes through her dige.stive organs for the production of the milk which is to feed her young. The reverse takes place with the fattening ox. He lakes but little else from the rich additional food he eats than the oil with which it is intended that he should invest his own body. Its other con- stituents are for the most part rejected in his ex- cretions, and hence the richness and high price of his dung. Farming on Twenty-five Acres. A gentleman at the North who has given for- ty years ot his life to a speculative pursuit, turned farmer at the age of 60, and his exam- ple might safely be imitated. He had nothing wrving to unlearn in his practice, and by the light ol the New England Farmer and the other agricultural papers he performed all his opera- tions. This is, emphatically, a "Book Farm- er.” Hear him speak for himself: " I divided my land, devoted to rotation crops, into six fields of about acres each: anew field was taken up every year, and first planted with corn, then with potatoes, and sown with winter rye in the fall, after the potatoe harvest, and seeded down, remaining in grass three years before the rotation comes around. This course gives me one field to corn, one to potatoes, and one to rye, each year, and the other three to grass, £ have in addition 2 acres of reclaimed bog which is not plowed, and 1 J acre for raising root crops and garden vegetables planted every year; the whole making about 25acres, which, with two or three acres of salt marsh, and a small piece of woodland constitute my farm. The first lesson I took in my new calling was to plow no more than could be well manured, and to have enough to do everything ira season. This has not been lost sight ot. My first crops were pretty fair, and have been gra- dually increasing from ypar to year, so that the same land which seven yearsago would rent for 4 per cent., has yielded more than 20 the past season, alter paying all the expenses of cultiva- tion. My last crops were estimated at S900, and, after deducting the cost of labor, board, manure, seeds, farming tools, taxes, &c., it leaves me a balance of more than $550 lor rent of land. Have sold over $600 worth, and the ba- lance is laid in for my own consumption, which is estimated at the same price as that sold. 1 could give a copy of the account in detail, if re- quired. It is no exaggeration in saying that I am more than a thousand dollars better off for the information I have derived from agricultural papers during the last seven years, in a small way of farming. From that source I have learned the best methods of composting manures and the kinds best adapted to distinct soils ; the Lest rotation of crops and the selection ot seeds, and the method ot cultivating each kind; also, how to reclaim bogs, of which 1 had two acres ol no value, but which, since that time have produced six tons of good hay annually. All this and much more 1 have gleaned from the ex- perience of others, communicated through the medium of the press. But still, I am n.ot so much ot a “ book farmer” as to believe one hall that is published is of any benefit to ordinary farmers like myself. I have tried some experi- ments recommended in your paper, that proved areal disadvantage. Yet I am fully of the opi- nion that every farmer v'ho can read ought to take an agricultural paper; for by selecting such advice as will apply to his particular soils and crops, he can treasure up something in the course of the year that will be worth more to him than the cost ot the paper.” Toads not to be Ti’od on. We have complaints from every quarter of the depredations of worms and flits — and anx- ious inquiries are made for remedies. We have killed off all the birds for lear ttiey would steal a lew kernels of grain — and we pay no more attention to a toad than if he was not born, like ourselves, to labor for a living. Crows we make war upon with more bitterness, if not at so great cost, as on the Mexicans ; and pigs are not permitted to run in orchards lest they root and pick up green apples along with the worms that harbor there. “Shall vve receive good at the hand of Pro- vidence and shall we not receive evin” It is the duty of man to turn to the best account the instincts ot all the animals that are destined to accompany him. Toads are as harmless as any of our fellow creatures, and loads will pick up every worm and fly in the garden provided you give them a fair chance. Toads want a shelter from the wet and cold, and if none is provided in your garden or field they will not make these places their home though they find food enough. In Matamoros your warriors are uneasy without tents, and they too will quit unless a supply is furnished. You may find toads in plenty under your build- ings where they find not halt so good living as they would in your fields. They go for protec- tion, and leave their best game to riot on your vegetables in the garden. Last week we turned up a board several feet in length, that had been carelessly left near our garden on some plowed ground. Under this board were snugly lodged a number o' large toads and a family of little ones, half an inch long. They appeared more happy than many families under more costly roofs, and seemed not much alarmed at the unroofing ot their house, for they had th,e bestof reasons for trust- ing us as friends. We have removed this family — shelter ana all — into our vegetable garden, and intend to pro- vide more boards for others that may come till we have stock enough for the fodder. Flat stones are acceptable to these useful creatures; but a number ol boards one foot wide and three in length will answer better. They will not be much in the way. They save much weeding, and the roots of vegetables will run as well un- der such .shelters as when there are none. And NOW FOR Crows. — While we were writ- ing the above, twelve crows gave us a loud call, and without farther ceremony alighted in our mown field and helped themselves, to their sto- mach’s content, to the surplus grass-hoppers v/hich the hens could not pick up. The crows cn our premises this year have done more good than evil. They pulled up not a hill of corn after we sowed a peck or two on the surface of the field — and with theiraid we shall have a fine lot of tall feed for cattle. Grasshoppers have often done ten limes as much mischief on a farm as crows, and it is a moot question whether it is ad visable to exterminate their destroyers. We would electioneer right heartily for these THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 167 black pigeons and naturalize ihem, were it not for the war spirit which they too olten manifest towards the weaker tribes of birds. But let it be remembered that these black warriors are so shy that they never carry o3 young birds from gardens or orchards near your dwellings. If robins and other small birds are encoura- ged to build near the habitations of man they will prefer such locations to extensive forests and swamps, where hawks and crows and snakes are more apt to be their neighbors. The Ignorant Farmer. Imagine such a one taking a walk over his farm in July, immediately alter a smartthunder storm; a delicious and peculiar Iragrance rises up from the ground to the nostrils; a strippling schoolboy at his side looks up knowingly in his face, ana says: “Papa, do you know where that sweet scent comes Irom 1” “ To be sure, child — from the ground.” “Yes, but what makes it come from the ground “ Why, the rain.” “But what makes the rain bring it from the ground?” Papa looks foolish £ nd confound- ed, whilst the junior boy in the junior class of agricultural chemistry comes out strong with his first lesson — “It comes from the ammonia, brought down in the rain more rapidly than the earth can absorb it, and which, being a highly volatile gas, is rising again into the air.” “ Non- sense! child.” “But it is so, papa : Professor Liebig and Dr. Playfair, and all the great che- mists say that it is so.” “But how can they prove it boy?” “ Why, in this way: they say that although the carbonate of ammonia is a fixed and visible body; yet if you spread fine- ly powdered gypsum over a grass field you may walk over it after a thunder shower without perceiving this scent; for the gypsum (whic i is sulphate of lime,) lays hold of the ammonia and obliges it to make a very curious inter- change— a sort of cros.s-marriage ; for the sul- phate leaves the lime and unites with the am- monia and becomes sulphate of ammonia, and the carbonate, abandoned by the ammonia, con- soles the deserted lime, and becomes carbonate of lime, commonly called chalk. And thus gypsum, though not a manure in itself, becomes thebasisof two manures— sulphate of ammo- nia and carbonate of lime. And the teacher says that it powdered gypsum be spread occa- sionally over the stables and the barnyard, it will catch all the ammonia that now goes off in smell, and, by the process before mentioned, increase the quantity and value of the manure.” — JS.Z. paper. Manures: Nature’s Reciprocitv System. — Mr. Downing:— The indefatigable Liebig, after his searching analysis into the nature and wants of vegetables, has arrived, it seems, at the conclusion, that, although other substances will be occasionally beneficial, yet we must re sort to the Barn yard fur the only substance which contains a?/ the elements that plants re- quire ! To my mind there is something satisfactory in being brought back after a tour of impatient search for fertilizers, to the simple usage of the earliest agriculturists, and there is a moral lesson taught by this result which makes us admire, as well as rely on the wise and beneficent laws of the Creator. He has so ordered i* that the ani- mals, and the land which sustains them, shall not only be mutually necessary and beneficial to each other, but all-sufflcient-, that when he decreed that man should live “ by the sweat of his brow,” and to struggle with “thorns and thistles,” he provided not only the most power- ful aid at the threshold of every culturist, but a substance which would have been a nuisance if it had been useless. The pursuit ofthe natural sciences olten con- duct us to positions whence we can “look through nature, up to nature’s God,” and it adds a charm to the fascinations of country life, that it affords us the best opportunities for the culti- vation of those sciences.— HortictiUjtnsL iHontlilj? QIalen&ar. Altered from the American Agriculturist's Almanac for 1844, and arranged to suit the Southern States. C.4t.E.^M>Aa ETOSa NOVESJBEia. [The following brief hints to the farmer, planter and gardener, will be found to apply not only to the month under which they are arranged, but, owing to diversity of seasons, climate and soils, they may frequently an- swer for other months This precaution the consider- ate agriculturist will not fail to notice and apply in all cases where his j udgmeiit and experience may dictate.] It is now lime to close up the operations- of the warm season, and provide for the cold. Finish collecting in all yourcrops, corn, turnips, cabbages, &c. and see that your cellars are well secured against frost, and your granaries against depredators. Finish the fall plowing. All clay land should be thrown into ridges lor the action of the frost. One good plowing on such land in the fall is worth two or three in the spring, and as this soil has a great affinity for ammonia, while thus exposed, it will absorb large quantities of it brought down in the win- ter and spring, by the snows and rain, which it will yield to the crops the ensuing season. Examine the winter grain, and any water fur- rows which have become choked up, let them be opened. Standing water will kill any useful excepting rice. The yards should be well bedded with turf, peat, or muck, weeds, refuse straw, and other vegetable matters; and so constructed that the soluble parts of it, which are the best, shall not be drained off to help inundate the roads and ditches. If time permits, drains should be made to carry off the latent water, which de- stroys the crops or diminishes them so much as hardly to pay lor the raising. Under ground, in preference to surface drains, should always be constructed, unless large quantities of water are required to pass. Give all your roots in heaps for the winter an additional covering be- fore the ground is frozen. Have all the barns, and sheds well covered and mended, and the racks and mangers all tight and in order, that no hay or provender may be wasted. Before the ground is frozen, look well to your fences. No meadows, winter grain, or even pastures, should be exposed to poaching from cattle, sheep or hogs. An animal will frequently do more hurt in one of them in a day at this sea- son, than in a week while the ground is well settled in summer. In the meantime the house- hold plants, the children, should not be neglect- ed, and especially the older ones who have help- ed through the labors of the summer and har- vests. Good schools must be provided for them, good teachers and good books. Their minds now, and indeed at all times, should be as closely watched over, as the more tangible things of the farm. On their correct, moral, and intellectual education, depends much, per- haps all their success in after life, and no fences should be neglected, or bars left down in their young minds. Good seed sown here, on good soil, and well cultivated, if the weeds of vice and bad principles are thoroughly extirpated, will never tail ot producing an abundant har- vest. It is not sufficient that their parents see them furnished with all the means for mental improvement; they must take an interest in their studies also. Daily examination into the progress ot their children, should be the con- stant practice of parents; questions asked hav- ing a bearing upon them; the connexion be- tween their studies and their own business pointed out, to show that they have a practical application to the concerns of every-day life; and they should be explained and illustrated in such a.manner as to excite an interest and in- quiry in their young minds. The discipline of the school ought to be inquired into, and the relative standing of the children ; and when praise is due, bestow it, and where censure and even punishment are needed, they should not be withheld. No farmer would think ofputting out his land to be managed by an agent with- out frequent and close supervision. Do not, therefore, put out the minds of your children, which are of infinitely more value, to the man- agement of every individual, without a closer and more thorough attention than he gives to his grounds and his cattle. Commence spreading out hemp for dew rot- ting, bearing in mind the observations on this subject last month. Kitchen Qarden. — If not done last month, many of the early vegetables may be sown lor the ensuing spring, if you have not hot beds tor forcing. The beds ought to be thrown up high, so as to avoid water during winter and spring, and being soon dry when the snow is off, the young plants will take an early start. They should be well rilled with the more heating ma- nure, as horse dung, &c. In these, tomatoes, lettuce, spinagp, cress, &c., may be sown. The asparagus bed should have a large supply of rich manure, which the winter rains will drain of all its enriching soluble matters and carry to the lowest roots, and on the opening of spring, will be ready to furnish a fresh treat for the table. Let the lettuces in frames still be expos- ed to the air during the day, but be covered by the glass at night. Practice the same treatment with cabbage.5 and cauliflowers in frames. Take up all remaining roots and store them as detail- ed last month. Rhubarb seed can now be sown, and will vegetate better than if kept out of the ground until spring. In the early part of this month, manure and trench the ground intende ! for early spring crops. Fruit Garden and Orchard. — Gooseberries, currants, and raspberries, may now be trans- planted. Of the latter the red and white Ant- werp are considered the most desirable. Do this the early part of the mont.b, and in the lat- ter part lay down the raspberries, and cover them with s^dge or any other kind of litter, or they may be killed, or at least injured by the w'inter. Dig and trench or plow the ground in- tended for planting in the spring. Flower Garden and Pleasure Grounds. — The directions for last month will also apply to this, while the ground is free from frost. The latter part of the month cover the flower borders and bulbous beds, and also all flowering plants and shrubs with a litter ol straw or of salt hay. Plantation. — In the latter end of October, or early part of November, prepare for preserving sweet potatoes for the winter. Select a dry place, level the earth, and lay a bed of dry pine straw, so as to form a circle of about six feet in diameter. On this straw pile up the potatoes until they form a cone four or five feet high, over which spread dry pine straw 5 or 6 inches thick. Then cover the entire cone with corn stalks set up end-wise with the butts resting on the ground and the tops reaching over the apex, of a sufficient thickness to conceal all of the potatoes. Then cover the whole pile with earth at the depth of at least a loot, without leaving any air-hole at the top, as is frequently done. A small shelter should then be made so as to prevent the rains from washing off the earth. This may be done by inserting in the ground about the pile lour forked stakes, on which rails may be placed to support the cover- ing, which may consist of boards, bark, thatch or other substances. Potatoes can be preserved in this manner untilJune', nearly as fresh as when first put up. In this month dress burr artichokes, taking away all their suckers, except three to each stock, open their roots, lay about them new earth and manure, and plant out suckers for an- other crop. Trim and dress asparagus beds by cutting down the stocks and burning them over the beds. Then dig between the shoots, level the beds, and cover them three fingers deep with fresh earth and manure, mixed. Continue to plant celery, set it in gutters, as it grows, and hill up; sow spinach, lettuce and raddish seeds, and plant out evergreens— they will do now per- haps better than in April. Plant vines or beans, and early peas. It is important to all invalids to know that castor oil may easily be taken mingled with orange juice— a little sugar being added to the juice, if the orange be not ripe and sweet. 168 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. ®l)e Soutl)crit ^IitltiDatou AUGUSTA, GA. VOt,. IV., «0. ll.,.NOVEITlBEK, 184G. OUR FIFTH VOLUME. WE have placed on our last page the Praspecltts for the Fifth Volume of the SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR, and we also send with this Na printed handbills, containing the same, to every post office to which our paper is sent. W e take this occasion to remind our readers that the time for commencing our next volume draws near, and it behooves the friends of the work to bestir themselves, if they would see the CULTIV'ATOR sustained in a manner commensurate with the great interests it is designed to promote. Without your aid and co-operation, the success of any work in the Southern States, devoted exclusively to Agriculture, no mat- ter how ably conducted, is extremely problematical — nay, im- possible. With that aid, what can we not accomplish I While we express our heartfelt acknowledgements for the exertions of those who have so nobly and promptly respond- ed to our efforts, and arrayed their names under the banner of the lamented McDONALD, as well as others to whose indi- vidual exertions « e are greatly indebted, tve would urge up- on those who have not yet come forward, but design doing so, the necessity of prompt and energetic action. Now is the time to put forth your exertions. There is a growing interest manifested throughout the country, in favor of Agricultural works, and we receive the most cheering accounts from all quarters. A vigorous and united effort now, while the fruitis ripe jind ready to fall into your hands, and success, glorious saccess, wdl crown your labors. Will you make that effort? Friends of the Work! Friends of Southern Agriculture ! You who would see the miserable system of Farming which is blighting and desolating your homesteads— the fairest heritage beneath the sun— give way to an improved system of Scientific and Practical Agriculture, restoring lost fertility, andbringing plenty, happiness and contentment to every fire- side in the land— arresting the Vandal spirit that defaces and desolates, and then emigratesto again commence the work of destruction anew— we entreat you, put forth your best ex- ertions. Let each one actus if his individual exertions alone would ensure the success of the good cause. It is not only patriotic, but it is your interest to do so. Give us, then, your hearty and cordial support, and we will furnish you with a paper worthy your patronage— worthy of the great art of AGRICULTURE. Here is the list of the noble spirits who have already ar- rayed themselves on the side of Agriculture, and determined to rescue the Cultivator, and elevate the standard of the great Mother of all the arts to the position it was designed to occupy; How many more are there willing to pledge them- selves to procure twenty subscribers each to our forthcoming Volume ? Here is oiu list :— Col. A. McDonald, Eufaula, Ala. E. McCROAN. Louisville, Ga. T. W. RUCKER, Elberton, Ga. C. DOUGHERTY, Athens, Ga. G. B. HAYGOOD, Watkinsville, Ga. WM. T. DeWITT, Hopewell, Ala. H. E. CHITT¥, Henry Co., Ala. WM. CUNNINGHAM, Monroe Co., Ala. C. B. ZUBER, White Sulphur Springs, Ga. J. C. HELVENSTON, Macon Co., Geo. JAS. J. BANKS, Enon, Ala. Gen. A. W. GREER, Taliaferro Co. SINGLETON HARRIS, “ J. S. LASSETER, “ “ JARED L. TURNER, Greene Co. J. P. C. WHITEHEAD, Waynesboro, Ga. E. F. HURT, Macon Co., Ala. B. F. BORUM, “ WM. B. S. GILMER, Chambers Co., Ala. JOHN A. CALHOUN, Eufaula, Ala., JOEL HURT, Crawford, Russell Co., Ala. GEORGE SEABORN, Pendleton Dist., 3. fe; « 'k. .o <3 I tS "S ^ Rain in | inches. : ^ ^ 2 % B § B tj) < S ■ p - O ® •IR)ox S S •oS,qo raj -jBJcpqji 1-66 1-35 •aS.qo raj -jBA-epqig 52 •aS,t{o raj -JB Aep qjs TO a ^ o> •a3,qo jaj -jBAepqji^ 5? w S S 2 •aS.qo jaj -JB Abp ps ii ^ S S S •aS.qo raj -JB Asp ps 10-55 10-47 20 18 17 15 •02, qo raj -JB Aep jsi 8-23 7-95 ^ ^ •aSutjyo JO iCea !! s o '5 5-^ ^ = tiB .= o.s asff 5|| So s E : M w * 2 ■c; ; — ^ • s S i 2 „ “ S “ s « c - o oB oB w'-P Z ^ c c O S C 3 Toads, not to be trod on “ 166 Veniil lalion “ 175 Well Directed Labor, importance of “ 175 Weeds “ 175 ILLUSTRATION. Hereford Bull Sir George,” “ 171 ILLUSTRATION. Hereford Bull Sir George,” “ 171 GEWEllYE GEORGIA P2.ABNS. I TAKE THIS method of informing tlie Planters that 1 am still manufacturing Negro Cloths, styled GEtiRGlA PLAINS, made of strong, well twisted cotton warp and pure wool-filling, which I warrant as a faithful article, and to wear longer than any Northern Goods, and will sell them as low as Northern Goods of the same weiglkt and wioin. 1 ney range iii prices ai 23, 25, 28 and 30 cents, according to the weight ofwool putin. The difference of price being only the cost of the material in the differ- ent styles. 1 can and will manufacture Negro Cloths as cheap as the Northern manufacturer, and put in bel- ter wool, and warrant the goods to last longer. Plan- ters wishing to purchase can have their orders filled at any moment, with a credit until January, by sending them to Messrs. Oliver & Nafew, successors to George W. Lamar & Co , Agents for the Factory in Augusta. None are genuine but those bearing my label on them, George Schley, ol2-4 [o1.3tC] Augusta, Georgia WEEKLY CHRONICLE & SENTINEL, FOR TWO DOLLARS A YEAR!! Tue Largest and Cheapest Family Newspaper in the Southern States, 28 by 46 inches, containing 36 col- umns, is issued from this office every Thursday, at the low rate of TWO DOLLARS per annum, in advance. I J. \V. & W. S. JONE.3, Proprietors. CHOICE FRCIT I'REIiS. THE SUBSCRIBER has on hand a rare collection of FRUIT TREES, graft-^|1^ ed by himself from the best varieties, which have been tested in this climate, among w'hich are some twenty kinds of Tennessee Apples, (which are found to do muchbetter in this climate than North- ern trees.) Also, Pears, Plums, (specimens of which can he shown grown oy ma this season weighing 4 ounces,) Cherries, Apricots, Nectarines, Figs, Grapes, (Juince, Gooseberries. &c. Also some beautiful dou- ble flowering fruit trees as the Apple, Peach, Almond, Quince, &c. Also, Hovey's celebrated Seedling Straw- berry, which have have proved in this climate to be fine bearers, of enormous size and of exquisite Pine Apple flavor, (baskets ot ibis delicious fruit have been in the Columbus maiket the past summer with berries measuring from 4 to 5 inches round ) .Also, Ornament- al f^hrubs. Plants, &e. Superb Dutch Flowering Bulls, Hyacinths, Tulips, Amarylas. Also an extensive as- sortment of Garden and Field Seeds, all of which can be found at my seed store in Columbus. Geo. Orders for trees, plants, hulbsor seeds will be carefully packed to go any distance with safety. 8-5 Chahles a. Peabody^ ®l)e Qoutljern Qlnltuiator Is published on the first of every month, at Augusta, Ga. J. W. & W. S. JONES, PROPRIETORS. EDITED BY JAMES CAMAK, OF ATHENS, GA. TERMS.-ONE DOLLAR A YEAR. I copy, one year, Si oo I 25 cop' one year,. .S20 00 6 copies, “ 5 00 I 100 copies, “ .. 75 00 [All subscriptions must commence with the volume.] The Cash System will be rigidly adhered to, and in no case will the paper be sent unless the money accompanies the order. ADVERTrsEMENTspertainingto Agriculture, will be in- serted for ONE dollar for every square of ten lines or less, for the first insertion, and seventy-five cents per square for each continuance. !j3=ALr. C tMMONlCATlO.NS, .MUST BE POST PAID, and adilresse I to JaMKS CA.M.aR, Athens, Georgia. VoL. IV AUGUSTA, GA., DECEMBER, 1846, No. 12 ilX0ixtt)l« Calendar. Altered from the American Agriculturist 's Almanac for ISli, and arranged to suit the Southern States. CAL,E.\i5AK S05£ DECE.^IBEa. [The foUnwiii;; brief hints lo the farmer, planter and gardener, will be found to apply not only to the month under which they are arranged, but, owing lo diversity of seasons, climate and soil.s, they may frequently an- swer for other months This precaution ihe eoii'ider- ale agriculturist will not fail to notice and apply- in all cases where his judgment and experience may dictate.] Settle all your accounts, collect what is due you, and pay what you owe. “Short settle- ments make long friend'.” E.xamine your farm statistics and 'ee what have been the resuiis of your e.xperitn?nts with the diff ■•rent kinds of ma- nures, seeds, modes of tillage, &c. &c., and note them well for future use. No farmer ought to be without such a book, in which all experiiiients should be carelully recorded at the lime, and the results carried into a separate book for his own use hereafter; and if new and valuable discoveries arp obtained, communi- cate them lo some agricultural periodical lor the benefit of ilie world. Recollect, you have the experience of thousands tfj guide your ope- rations, and, by contributing to the general stock whatever may be useful, you are but re- turning to mankind a part of the benefits you have derived from them. But avoid twad 'le and humbuggery, and oft published siatement.s, and proli.x or tedious narration, and give all the circumstances material to the subjects, in the briefest, plainest, simplest language possible. Above ali things send in your subscription to one or more valuable agricultural papers, and gel as many of your neighbors to subscribe as possible, and consider in so doing, you are ben- efliting yourself by it ten times as much as you are the publishers. Summer is peculiarly the time for making observ.ations and e.xperimenis and winter the time for communicating them. Rzrnernber the poor, not ',nly in this month but every momh through the year, and especially during the inclemency of winter. You need not give so much to them outright, but endeavor to put them in a way ol makin.g themselves comfortable, by affording them employment, by which, you may be benefiited, v bile doingthem good. You thus confer on them a triple bene- fit, by furnishing them the means ol comforta- ble subsiT-ience, teaching them to help them- selves, and avoiding the habit of receiving cAa- rily. which insensibly weakens (heir sense of sell-dependence. Stock now require increased aiteniion. They must be well housed, or at least protected against win.l, with a shelter to which they can resort in storms, well supplied with salt, and abundance of water if possible in the yard, where they can get it when they want, and w'iihou' wearying themselves in looking for it, and wasting their manure by dropping it in the road, or by a running stream or pond where it will all be lost. Their feed should be regular, and gi ven to them as near stated times as pos- sible. They look tor their food then at certain hours, and are n-ot uneasy and fretful ti” the customary period arrives, a. a rest qui^uv, di- gesting their food till it is time to look for ano- ther supply. It brought up in regular habits brutes are much better time keepers than many are disposed to consider them, who have not observed closely their intelligence. Now is a goo ; lime to break steers and colts, while the roads are smooth and hard. They ought to be eaily accustomed to handling, and the halter, and be gently treated, by which they are more disposed to yield to the wishes of their master. If they have been always used to. g,ood treat- ment, they will acquire a confidence in their keepers, and the more readily submit to their guidance, ’Tis always betier to irain them with strong, w-ell broken animals. Sympathy has more to do with the brute creation than ihej have credit fur generally, and the good ha- bits and orderly behavior of the older animals, they have been accustomed to treat with defer- ence, will not be without its wholesome effect on them. This is the best mnn’h tor spreading out hemo for dew-rotiing, in the latimdes below 40®, as it gets a whiter and better rot than if s, oread earlier. Kitchen Garden. — Every fine day uncover the frames in which are lettuce and cauliflower plants, otherwise they will become spindling from want ol air. Hot beds can now be made for forcing asparagus for the table in January. If the ground is open continue trenching for spring crops. When the ground is frozen cart manure, repair fences, clean seeds, prepare tools for spring. Provide pea sticks, bean poles, &c., and finish all that will be required in the spring, and which can be done when the ground is frozen. Fruit Garden and Orchard.— Finish those things which may have been omitted the pre- vious month. If the weather continues open digging and plowing may be done advanta- geously. Perform any woik that may tend to forward your business in the spring. Flower Go.rden and Pleasure Grounds. — Con- tinue to protect your beds of bulbs and also flower beds and shrubs as directed in last monh. Should the weather continu-* open in the early part of this month, bulbs may still be planted. They should not be left as late as this, but if such has been the case they had better be plant- ed nowihan left until spring. Now carefully protect seedling bulbs. The more tender kinds ot trees can have their roots protected from frost by laying manure or long litier about them. Planlalion. — The closing month ot the year is one in which every agriculturist should take an interest, and for many useful hints we will refer the reader to the Calendar for the previous inunihs Colton picking will probably occupy this month until Christmas, when this business will have been completed, il the culture has been well managed and the season favorable. It would be well to start your plows and break up ground for corn; let nothing but cotton prevent — not even cleaning; lor plowing is only one job; yet, if done soon ii is generally advanta- geous, and if bad weaiher should set in, when it must be done, lime will be lost and a drawback ensue, whereas by plowing in time cleaning can be done later. la weather not employed about other labor mo.i'e important, rnanu.'-e and trim all kinds of vir°s and fruit trees except the orange tribe. Transplant evergreens and other trees, sweet briers, honey-suckles, jasmines, &c. ; .sow late peas and beans, and set out onions for seed; set all hands at work in cleaning up lor other crops, picking up limbs, grubbing, cleaning up hol- lows, sides of bayous, cutting down corn stalks i with hoes, gathering materi._.> for making ma- nure, &c. &c. If you do not live in the immediate vicinity, say five or six miles, from a sugar plantation, by all means keep bees. This can be rendered one of the most productive branches of busi- ness of the day. Procure a few swarms at first and they will soon multiply to any extent re- q’lired. Use sections of hollow logs four or five leet long for hives, il you have no other more convenient materials to make them of, and allow the bees to work over the honey a se- cond time, that you may avoid the injurious ef- fects of eating honey which maj^ have been ga- thered from poisonous flowers. If the above named class of hives be used, there will be no necessity for killing the bees; for when the hives are filled with honey they can be remo- ved wiihoui harm from the end opposite to that in which the bees are at work, and they will immediately go to work and till the vacancy. In most parts of the Southern States bees may be kept at work during the winter. If there are no flowers for them they can be made to work over the bad honey collected d s season before. This is also a busy month for the sugar-plant- er. He will be active in cutting and carting his cane with all possible dispatch, and he should employ one or more practical and intel- ligent men to conduct the operations of the mill. In the manufacture of sugar, we know of no belter method than that given by Professor Mayes in a letter to Hon. H. L. Ellsworth, from which we make the follow'ing extract : 1st. To cut the cane as ripe as possible, but before any aceiic acid is formed ; litmus paper, touched to the fresh cut cane will turn red if acid. 2Qd. Express the juice without loss of time, as every moment after cutting will deteriorate its quaiiiy. 3d. A small quantity of clear lime-water, say one quart to a hundred gallons of juice, should be added the moment it is expressed, unless the juice shows acidity with litmus paper; in that case, no lime should be used, but a solution of sal soda or soda ash should be added until it is precisely’ neutral. 4th, When the juice is neutral, free from ex- cess of acid or alkali, it should be evaporated in such an apparatus as would finish its charge in 30 minutes; it the boiling power is too small good crystal zation cannot possibly be obtained. The whole time occupied from the cutting ol the cane to finishing its boiling should not ex- ceed one hour. 5tb. To know when the boiling is finished place a ihermometer in the kettle, and continue to evaporate until it stands at 239® Fahrenheit. If, when placed lo run off after cooling it should be found too freely boiled, the next time boil to 240® or, if too light lo run off, to 238® and so. on. 6;h. The kettle or boiler should be so arrang- ed that the moment it is done its charge should be thrown into a cooler capable of holding a number of charges. The first charge should be left in the cooler without stirring, until the second charge is thrown in, then with an oar scrape th« crystals found on the side and bottom of the cooler loose, and gently stir the -whole mass to- gether: the less stirred the baiter; so continue at the letting in of each charge to stir gently; and when all is in the cooler let the whole stand until it cools down to then fill out into su- 178 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. gar moulds ol a capacity not less than 14 gal- lons, When cooled in the mould sufficiently, say fourteen hours, pull the plug out ot the bot- tom ol the mould and insert a sharp point near- ly as large as the hole, some six inches; with- draw the point and sianrl the mould on a pot to drip. 7th. If the sugar is intended to be brown, leaving it standin? on the pot lor a sufficient length ol time in a temperature ot 80*^, will run off its molasses and leave it in a merchantable shape; it will probably require twenty days. It can then be thrown out of the moulds and will be fit for use. When moulds cannot be ob- tained conical vessels of wood or metal, with a hole at the apex, will answer equally well. Conclusion.— Kl the close ot the year many persons employ themselves in reviewing the events of the past — their acquirements — their well or ill-spent days, or their hours ol idleness or inattention. Good resolutions tor the luture guidance naturally follow, and to such, kind reader, we most heartily join our warmest wish- es for permanent success, trusting that each ot you who thus have resolved, may go on, adding “flower to flower and knowledge to know'- ledge,” until you blossom in the garden where no good resolutions are blasted, and where no flowers either wither or lade. So until Janua- ry, 1847, we bid the planter and larmer fare- well. From the Joarnal of Commerce. Wool. The annexed article, by Hamilton Gay, Esq., on the growth, preparation, packing, &c., ol American Wool for the English market, con- tains information which will be valuable both to the farmer and merchant. It was elicited by the following note, dated JNew York, May 16, 1846. Dear Sir: — You have been engaged lor the year past in exporting American wools to vari- ous markets in Great Britain, and must have acquired much valuable information respecting the manner in which our wools should be pre- pared for those markets. Such information is much wanted by our farmers and wool dealers ; for it is evident that wool is to be henceforth an important article of exportation from the United States. Allow us, then, to inquire, whether you will not do us foe favor to write out your impressions for the Journal of Commerce. We are, sir, your ob’t servants, Hale & Hallock. Hamilton Gay, Esq , 53 South-st. New York, May 16, 1846. Messes. Hale & Hallock: — Dear Sirs— I have your favor of this day’s date. Such infor- mation as I can give on the subject of your in- quiry, is i,at your service for the benefit ol those interested. More than one-half ol all the American fleece wool exported from the United States, of the last year’s clip, was owned and shipped by myself and by otheis having a joint interest with me. The purchases were all made at the lowest point of the season, beginning on the 1st day of September, and closing on the 25th day of October last. The result has been a nett loss of $5,993, and 188 bales of wool yet unsold; equal only to the fraction of a penny sterlingon each pound. Not a fleeee ol the wool was sold to meet the payment ot drafts drawn against it, nor was any portion of it unduly pressed upon the market — and this loss arose from causes un- necessary, easily avoided, and entirely within the control of parties in this country. The prices of United Slates fleece wool are affected very injuriously in foreign markets by its unclean condition. It contains too much oil, and yolk, and dirt. The sheep are general- ly washed with too little care, and run too long after washing before shearing. A large portion of the wool, from this cause, must pass through the hands of those who sort it and scour it in soap and water, before it is sold to the manu- facturers. The wool itself is of superior staple, and while upon the sheep is inferior to nooiher in the world, of equal grade; and it may be safely sta ted, that every pound of oil, or other worthless substance, will, in the English markets, deduct from the value of the wool containing it, the price at least of two pounds of wool. English manufacturers and samplers, before purchas- ing, open a portion of the fleeces, and examine carefully, not only the fineness, but. also the strength of the staple, and its condition through- out. The first important operation in preparing our fleece wool for export, is to properly cleanse it before shearing. The sheepshould be wash- ed in clear running water — the water must run freely through every part ot the fleece, and the wool and every part ol it should be pressed and worked with the hand while under water, until the dirt and oil are removed, and the water runs off clear. The shearing should then take place as soon as the sheep become dry alter washing.* Then comes the tying up of the fleeces. All the loose locks, clippings and tags, and everything unclean, or of an inferior quality, and the coarse wool from the thighs, if there be any, should be wholly rejected, and the fleeces tied up firmly, so as to keep their shape, and show, as is customary, the best part of the fleece on the outside. This terminates the wool-grower’s part; but I will here remark, that sheep should be kept as nearly as possible in uniformly good health and flesh, because every portion of the staple or fi- bre of the wool which grows while the sheep are very poor from disease or want ot food, has so little strength as to break in working; and if this weak growth takes place in the fall ot the year, it destroys the fleece for many purposes. The next step is to properly sort and sack the fleeces, and direct them to the best market. This is the merchant’s part, and more than a shipper’s profitdepends upon its being perlorni- ed understandingly. In England each manufacturer devotes his attention to one particular description of goods for which his machinery has been constructed, and he makes no other. The makers of each kind of goods have established themselves mostly together in some one pait of the king- dom, where they have a wool market of their own, in which they seek for the qualities and descriptions suitable for their purpose, and will buy no other. The broadcloth makers in the west of England, the Worsted Combers of Yorkshire, the flannel manulaclurers of Roche- dale, and those who make hosiery in Notting- ham, purchase in their several markets a sup- ply suitable only for their own machinery. So nice does this discrimination run, that the flee- ces of fine wool, taken from sheep one year old which were never before shorn, are mostly sent to one part of the country, and there sold lo be used for one purpose, and the fleeces taken from the same sheep the next year, are sent to ano- ther part of the country and there wrought into a very different kind of goods. Thus it is of great importance that>?eece wool for shipment, before it goes on board, should be sorted and sacked according to the grades ot foreign manu- facturers, and suitable for their purposes, in or- der that it may be sold directly to them — other- wise, even if clean and in good order, it must pass first through other hands, that re-sort it, re- sack it, and distribute it to various parts of the kingdom at considerable expense. The size of the bales is the next thing lo be kept in view. 1 have paid on large shipments as high as one dollar per baXeiox “Dock Dues,” without reference to the size ol the bales; while at some ports the charge is less than one-tenth part of this sum. Custom in England gives the purchaser an al- lowance on each bale called “the draft;” but the amount thus given varies at the different ♦Morrell, in his Ameriran Sheplierd, directs that shearing should not take place until the lapse of such an interval after washing, as will allow the oil to ap- pear, and conler softness and brilliancy on the wool. A week or ten days is sufficient for the purpose if the weather has been sunny. markets. 1 have other accounts of sales in which only one pound weight per bale is deduct- ed for “the draff.” 1 have other accounts of sales made in different places, in which 2 lbs., and 3 lbs., and 4 lbs., and even 8 lbs. per bale is deducted for “ the draff,” without reference to the size of the bale. This may seem unrea- sonable, but it is established by the ancient usage of the different markets, and must be com- plied with. The bales should therefore be of a size suited to their destination, but not loo large, else they will not be lifted, but rolled over the docks and streets. Each sack should be firmly packed by a man inside, but never pressed by machinery, and every fleece of weak staple carefully rejected, and those fleeces paclred by themselves. The shipment then requires some attention. The wool should be placed on board dry, with the sacking whole andclean, and should always be set t as light freight in the upper part of the vessel. Our wool ccntainstoo much oil and gummy matter to be placed low in the ship, with heavy weights pressing upon it, without being in some degree injured by matting toge- ther. This closes the part ot the American mer- chant. In illustration, I will remark that I have had two invoices of wool sold in England at the same price, in the same place, and within three daysot each other, whose'value in this country differed ten cents per pound on the day of their purchase, or any other day since. The one kind answered the market, the other did not, but was greatly superior in fineness cf fibre. My own clip of wool, grown upon my own lands, and cut last June, and which 1 know all about, 1 shipped to England in one vessel, and consigned it in two equal quantities, of equal quality, to two different markets, about 200 miles distant from each other, and they were sold near the same time, by direction of the same house, and alter full and fair exposure in both markets, at a difference of more than 7 cents per pound in price. Its quality and condition were very su- perior, and just suited to the one market and not lo the other. Within the past year I have sent more or less wool to every part ot England, and to Wales, and to Scotland, comprising the various quali- ties grown in Illinois, Michigan, Ohio, Penn- sylvania, New York and Vermont. Nearly every invoice was accompanied with an intima- tion that “ it was not sent so much with a view to profit as to try their market, and hoping to re- ceive in return suitable direciionsorsuggestions lor a better method of preparing and shipping such wools to England.” ’The result has been a voluminous correspondence, giving ample details, and all the particulars required, it is from this correspondence and the results ol those actual sales, as well as from personal ob- servation and information, that I venture the opinions already expressed. 1 trust that the past errors may be avoided in the luture ; and I now have done wdth the preparation and ship- ment. The production of wool in the United States, until recently, has not equalled the consump- tion, but the low price of grains and provisions since 1840, has caused a rapid increase in the number of sheep, which, under very lavorabl-e circumstances, may double each three years; and they now surpass, and a^e likely still fur- ther to surpass, all pievious estimates. The quantity of wool became so unwieldy last year that the value fell lull twenty per cent., notwith- standing the foreign shipments^ the abundance of money, the high tariff, and the prosperous condition of the manulacturing interest. We now have the promise ol considerably increas- ed quantities in this year’s clip, especially f'om some of the new States, with money more in demand, the protective policy in more danger, and lower prices of cloths. II the home mar- kets are solely relied upon, wool, like all other articles, when produced in excess, would long rule low in price. An abundant supply will hereafter enable manufacturers to purchase at THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 179 their leisure, and lo chcose their qual ities ; and henceforth prices must be regulated, like those oi cotton, in the open markets of the world. The growing of wool in this country is receiv- ing from year to year more and more attention. Men’s minds have been turned in thatdireclion. Hundreds of thousands of sheep, instead of be- ing slaughtered as formerly, are now annually driven from older and cultivated lands as fast as their increase exceeds their pasturage, to newer grounds, where they are distributed to emigrants from the older States accustomed to take care of them, and there they form the germs of other flocks growing up in millions. An impetus has thus been given which must long continue, because consistent with the inte- rests oi those concerned- The room and the inducements ate sufficient. In the North-west, between the Alleghany and Rocky Mountains, we have a vast region stretching over the extent ot empires, whore the soil is composed mostly oi vegetable mould, the accumu ating deposit oi various herbage from year to year since the creation. The earth contains nothing approach- ing it in vastness and fertility. This deposit is a mine of material which may be turned into wheat, only by planting wheat upon it, or into wool only by pasturing sheep upon it. It lies open to every hand that will partake ot it. Its position is secure irotn the desolation oi wars. Its extent and quantity are such that it must pass to other generations of men beiore exhausted. But like all great tracts of interior territory, the transportation of its products to the ocean, and the markets ot other climates, is laborious, costly, slow, hazardous and uncertain. Wool forms the only exception. Wool, which is worth ten times as much as iron ot equal weight, may be sent forward from the place of its growth thirty times cheaper than wheat of equal value. The necessities oi densely peopled countries insures its steady consumption. Of all the ar- ticles of commerce, wool is the most stable in its nature, and has always been the mo‘t gene- rally used by civilized man, from times the most remote of every nation, tongue and race. Of all the staple articles of the world, wool requires the least labor to produce it, the least care and cost in its preservation and transportation, and is the most suitable, profitable and reliable pro- duction for the great interior of this country, where labor is scarce and dear, and fertile lands cheap and plenty. Hence its growth will long continue to be a cherished interest, and the export demand, at the prices of other countries, will last forever. I remain yours, truly, HAMtLTON Gay, Cultivation of Bear Grass- Washington, Sept, 21, 1846, Sir — 1 have had the pleasure of receiving a number of the Tallahassee Floridian, where I notice you have conferred on rne the honor to notice my letter, forwarded by the Hon. D. S. Yulee, by calling the attention of Gen. R. K. Call to the questions propounded in that com- munication, in relation to the cultivation and preparation of the Bear Grass plant, which ap- pears to be indigenous to your State; and, as I believe susceptible of being applied to so many valuable manufacturing purposes. As an apo- logy for my intrusion on this occasion, I am compelled to refer you to my former communi- cation, and must leave the matter to subsequent events to demonstrate. At present, you will allow me to offer an in- cipient effort, in the form of an imperfect essay upon the cultiva ion of this plant, having no other data to govern me but what information 1 can gather of the character ot the plant, Irom Gen. R. K. Call’s able communication. And, in this feeble effort, I shall flatter myself that the information set forth may not prove abor- tive. The mode best to be adopted for the cultiva- tion and preservation of this valuable plant, is as follows : The plant should be propagated in that sea- son of the year when vegetation becomes the most thrifty, and taken fiom the seed. The land should be rich to produce a rapid growth, and it should be planted a reasonable distance apart, allowing sufficient room lor the leaves to have free course to spread, with a tree circula- tion of the atmosphere, and well cultivated. In planting from the seed,- it will be found that the plants are more vigorous, and will contain, when prepared into hemp, more elasticity, and with the assistance ol the Ifee course ol the at- mosphere, produces a greater tenacity of fibre, than that which is produced from the old roots. The time ot gathering is as follows : If my opin- ion is correct, this plant bears a flower, as all veg- etable plants consist more or less of what is term- ed essential oil. And as early as the pollen ol the flower makes its appearance and begins to fall, the plant should be gathered for hemp, to avoid the essential oil from passing into the seed, which extracts it from the fibre and leaves it harsh and brittle, and injures it for manufac- turing purposes. But by preserving the essen- tial oil in the fibre, it retains its natural tenacity and elasticity. This is the most essential point in the promotion ot this most important object. In effecting this point, we arrive at once at its utility, which no doubt can be carried to the greatest perfection, in the manufacture of the finest labrics, being an imitation of silk, as al- so fabrics for bagging purposes, &c. The leaves, alter being gathered, should be carefully exposed to the sun lor a day or so, for the purpose of adhering the essential oil in the fibre and creating a toughness when this is com- pleted. They then should bt gathered from the field, and placed under a s’nelter for ready im- mersion, or rotting, as it is technically termed— which process is to relieve the plant or fibre of the glutinous or mucous, which composes the lormation ol the leaf. I now come to a point, wherein I am sorry to be compelled to diff^er with Gen. R. K. Call’s course of treatment — in relieving the glutin- ous portion from the fibre, by boiling the plant. This process produces evil effects. The heat- ed water must affect the strength of the fibre, and produces a harshness and brittleness, and when manntactured, becomes useless. I have arrived at the conclusion ihatthe plant should be immersed in water, at a temperature ot from 45 to 60 degrees, or at such temperature as will be produced by the effect of the state of the atmosphere. Standing water in ponds will answer. The mode of immersing ii is as fol- lows: Place the plant in regular form in the water, and lay plank on the surface of it, and weight it down, or otherwise, build plank vats, and have the water introduced into them, allow the vats to be exposed lo the heat ol the sun when filled. The vats should not be more than two feet deep, the dimensions otherwise are not particular. When the plant is immersed for a certain time, say two or three days, or more, which will depend entirely upon the state of the atmosphere, there will be discovered in the sur- face ol the plant a glutinous matter. If this appears to be general, the conclusion is, that it has undergone its solution, or decomposition, of the vegetable matter which adheres to the fibre, and vvhich will If ave the fibre free tor prepar- ing it into hemp. The plants should imme- diately betaken out of the water, and hung or stood up to dry, ready lor the preparation of transferring it into hemp. I am of the opinion, operating on it in a wet slate injures the fibre. One thing is certain, converting it into loose fibres in a wet state, and allowing the atmos- phere to act suddenly upon it, produces a harsh- ness, which is a great evil. There will be objections, no doubt, to the pro- cess of col-d water, from the circumstance ot its slowness of action, and may produce a little more labor. But to a calculating mind, the objections v ill be overcome, from the fact of its superiority and valuableness ol the article, be- yond that produced by heated water. The mode o? machine necessary to produce the hemp, after passing through the former pro- cess, is simple. To those who have not the conveniences; A block ot wood, and maul which can be conveniently used in one hand. Holding the leaf on the block, and applying the maul with the other hand produce the fibre; or, to those that have the conveniences, the speedi- est way is to have two horizontal fluted rollers, operating in each other similar to an ordinary sugar mill, as Gen. R. K. Call describes. I have taken the liberty ol advancing these views and ideas upon the subject, with the mo- tive of calling the attention of the planter to experimenting. It they prove to be correct, 1 shall be happy. It the contrary, I may hope that salutary effects may be produced from the experiments to the development of other cour- ses of treatment, to the attainment of the object in view. 1 should have remarked before, that the seed for planting should have been taken from the most thrifty plants, and which should be cultivated apart from that which is planted out for hemp, as seed plants. The great importance of this object at this present stage, may be set down by some as nu- gatory, not worthy of their attention. But in my opinion I view the character as such as to elicit the interest of every citizen ol yo6r State, as also the attention of your legislative body. The consumption of this article, when it be- comes a staple, and Us qualities become known generally, must extend to a great extent in this country, as also in foreign countries, to thou- sands of tons. And with the enterprise and in- genuity ot our citizens — these combined being so fruitful, there can be no question but what it will be applied for manufacturing purposes, which at this time the mind is not capable of comprehending. The experience I have had in matters of this kind brings me to this con- clusion. It is calculated to diffuse wealth with a libe- ral hand to our industrious and enterprising citizens, and raise your inlant State equal to others, and unsurpassed in agricultural wealth, when we consider, as Gen. R. K. Call states, that one acre of Bear Grass will produce five to six tons of hemp. With this enormous yield, we can safely rely to a certainty, that an acre will aett a clear gained S300. With this fact before us, the inference must be, that in time the agricultural interest of your Slate will augment beyond all present calculations. Therefore, the interest stands prominent before the planters and citizens of yoar State, lo take hold of this subject in earnest, as early as pos- sible, prosecute it with energy and diligence, and the reward will follow in getting the ad- vance of other States south, who no doubt will embark in its cultivation, when its qualities and treatment becomes lully developed. And wherever the article is procured the cheapest, there is where the capital will concentrate for manufacturing purposes. I will conclude my remarks by expressing the pleasure I should derive in being one of the feeble instruments in bringing this important matter to a prosperous issue, viewing it as one of the blessings of a bountiful Providence, who has been pleased to bestow it upon our blessed country, and which carries the mind lo a full conviction of his great design. In this way we may become independent of all foreign productions, snstaining ourselves under our own vine and fig tree, in competency and independence, with the privileges ol a free instituted government. In conclusion, allow me the honor to be, re- spectfully, your most obedient servant. David Myerle. To His Es-csllency Wm. C. Moseley, Tallahassee, Fla. Georgia Yarns Triumphant. — We take pleasure in chronicling the fact that a specimen of yarns from the Cartwright Manufactory near Greensboro, Geo., was awarded the medal at the late Fair of the American Institute in New Y®rk. What renders this triumph of this com- pany more creditable to their establishment, is the fact, that (he yarns exhibited were not made specially for the occasion, but were taken from a lot which the company had on sale at the time in New York. 180 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. From the Albany UuUivator Cheese-Making. At the preseni lime it. is an object of consid- erable consequence to the manufacturers of cheese in this country, to produce that which would be approved and meet with a ready sale in the English markets, whither a large quanti- ty of that article is now being sent. One of the ' most esteemed varieties of English cheese is that made in C.ieshire; and, having bad fre- quent inquiries in regard to the process of man- ufacturing this kind, from those who are desir- ous of imitating it, we give from the Journal of the Royal Agricultural Society^ a briel sketch of a prize essay, by Mr. White, on Cheese- Making in Cheshire, The n umber of cows belonging to a cheese- dairy is stated to be seldom less than eight or ten, or more than seventy or eighty. From 18 cows a cheese from 36 to 54 lbs. weight, is made daily for four or five months in the summer. The' annual produce, however, varies with the cows and mode of keeping, and it is observed that great loss is known to have been sicslamed by not feeding the animals well in winter. The evening’s milk is seldom made into cheese till the following morning, and in small dairies, sometimes not till the second morning. A cool milk-house is necessary, and hence it is commonly placed on the side of the house (or other building) least exposed to the sun. Most milk-rooms have lattice or wire-windows for the circulation of air, and an inclination is giv- en to the floors for the tree escape of the cold water which is daily applied to them in sum- mer. Precautions of this kind are necessary to prevent the milk from becoming sour. A tem- perature of fifty degrees Fahrenheit is thought the best throughout the year. The dairy is generally near the milk-house, and fitted with two boilers; one for scalding whey, and another of less size for healing wa- ter. ' The salting and drying house should ad- join the dairy. Here the cheeses are placed on stone or wooden benches, salted externally, and dried, before removal to the cheese room. Some (lairj -maids dispense with external salt- ing. Sometimes the cheese room is over the dairy, and at others it is over the kitchen^ or other apartment in which a fire is kept. Light and air are always excluded from it by curtains or shutters; and one reason assigned lor the practice is its tendency to prevent the hurtlul ef- fects of the fly. Some of the larger cheese rooms are warmed by stoves or hot air, and in rare instances, from ordinary fire-places built in them. Process of Cheese- Making. —The. extraction of the whey, and salting, occupy from five to seven hours, and it is therefore convenient to commence working in the morning.^ In this case the evening’s milk is kept overnight, and in the morning the cream is skimmed off and a portion of the milk warmed. The warming is effected bv means of a brass or tin pan, about twenty inches in diamete.r, and eight inches deep, in which the milk is floated in the boiler, the water in which has been healed for the pur- pose. In the early months ol the season, so much as hall the evening’s milk may be heated to a temperature of lOO degrees, a heat seldom exceeded, except with a view of saving trou- ble in the after process. The cold milk is now poured into the cheese tub, and the warm added to it. The temperature of the mixture may be about 75 degrees, but in warm weather 70 will be enough. It is, however, becoming the gen- eral practice, in summer, not to warm the eve- ning’s milk, and in very warm weather even the temperature of the morning’s milk is some- times reduced. The cream, diluted in about double its quantity of warm or new milk, is next put in. If a small portion of the cream is to be retained for butler, it is thought best to skim it off the whole surface of the cream be- lore diluting, in order to remove froth and bub- bles, which are considered prejudicial to the cheese. This leads to the conclusion, that fixed air in the curd is detrimental, and suggests the inquiry whether it might not be beuer to heat the whole ol the evening’s milk to the required temperature, than to raise the temperature of a part of it to lOO degrees. The next step is to add the new or morning’s milk, which is done by passing it through a seive placed on the cheese-la Ider over the* chee.‘e-tub. Bubbles seen floating on the surface are skimmed off, and passed through the seive to break them. An important poininow demanding attention is the profwr temperature of the milk when the rennet is put in. Little is known among farm- ers and dairy -maids as to the prcciseheal which is best; and it is seldom that the temperature is tested otherwise than by hand. Insome dairies in which observations have been made, ihe lowest heat was 77 degrees. Even where what is called cold-cheese, which has a tendency to green-mould, is made, it is not supposed that a temperature is adopted at any season ol the year, much under 74 or 75 degrees. The eve- ning’s milk being about 75, and the morning’s milk from 90 to 95 degrees, the temperature of the whole is found to be from 80 to 85 degrees. The exact heal at which milk ought to be coagu- lated isa matter of essential importance in cheese-making, and it cannot be ascertained but by a series of careful and judicious experi- ments made by scientific and practical parlies. The rennet or steep is now to be added.* To fix the quantity necessary for coagulating a given quantity ol milk isdifficull, as maw skins vary much in quality. In using them two skins are often cut at once. Three square inchfs taken from the boitom, or strongest part of the one, and one or two inches from the top or weakest part of the other, are generally suffi • cient for sixty gallons of milk. These pieces are put into a cup containing about hall a pint ol luke-warm water, with a teaspoonful of sail, the day before the infusion is required. — The water thus impregnated with the maw- skin is passed through a seive into the milk; but the skin itself is usually kept out ; the ren- net cup is well scalded before being used again. The coloring matte: and rennet having been pul in, the milk is well stirredand leltio coagu- late, and the tub is covered up. [It is remarked in a note, that the coloring matter used is An- natto, which gives the cheese an amber or cream-like appearance. It is said to be seldom used when the cheese is intended for the consumption of the Cheshire fami- lies, as it is known not only that it does not improve the flavor, but that if the quality ol the drug, is inferior, or, if t.here is too much of it used, there isa hazard of the flavor being too much deteriorated. One pound of it to a ton ol cheese, or half an cunce to seventy-five pounds, is considered a moderate proportion ] — The coagulation is commonly effected in an hour or an hour and a half. The warmer the milk, or theslrongertherennetlhe socnercnagu- lation ensues, but the curd is tougher and less in qiiantiiy ; on the contrary, the cooler the milk or weaker the rennet, the longer the curd is in forming; but it is both lender and there is more of it. Too much rennet tends to impart an unpleasant flavor or bitterness to the cheese. It may generally be expected that the heat of tire curd when formed, will be lour or five degrees less than the milk was when the rennet was applied ; and the difference, especially in cool weather, should not be greater. To determine when the curd is fit for breaking, requires some practical knowledge. It is usually done by gently pressing the surface ol the milk with the back of the hand, or by lifting up the skimming dish, beneath| which fhe curd and whey will distinctly appear, if the coagulation is complete. * The following is given as a good recipe for curing maw skins. Procure fiesh skins the year before they are wanted ; free them from chyle and every impurity ; turn them inside out and salt the.-n ; lay them one upon another, with salt between, in a deep earthenware ves- sel ; coyer the whole with salt, and lay a lid on Ihe top. About antonlh before using them, take them out and drain the brine from them; then spread them on a ta- ble, and powder them on each side with fine salt. In this state they are to be rolled with a paste roller, dis- lendeel with splints of wood, and hung uji to dry. Another criterion is the color of the whey, which should he a pale green. The breaking and gatheringof the curd next engage attention. These operations are per- formed by the hand and skimraingdish,or more commonly the curd-breaker. This implement is mrde of w'iiework, in an oval form that has a rim ol tin anaind it about an inch and an half broad. It cuts t! e curd by being passed through it perpendicularly., and at first, very gently, in different daroctiions, SQ that the whole mass is .separated into very small poTiions. For a 60 lb. cheese, this operation takes twenty or twen- ty-five minytes. The card is then left for a quarter of an hour to separate from the whey, and if the weather is cool, a cover is put ovei the tub to retain the heat. After the separation of the curd, which falls to the bottom, a portion of the whey at Ihe top is taken out by Ihe portable brass or tin pan being pressed into it, and emptied into the set pan ; the curd is then gent- ly broken, by being raised with the hands to the surface, or by the renewed use of the curd- breaker. When the curd is brought to lie top, it is easily raised and separated into small por- tions for the release of the w'hey. This part of the process takes about half an hour. After about another half hour, or as soon as the curd is sufficiently settled, more whey is taken out, and the curd, so far as its contexture will admit, drawn into one-half of the bottom of the tub; a semicircular board is then placed on the curd, loaded with a weight of about 30 lbs. The board is perforated with holes about half an inch in diameter, lor the escape of the whey. — The tub is now set three or four inches atilt, to facilitale the discharge of the whey from the curd, and the skimming dish is used to lade it out. On its way to the set-pan, the whey passes through ii sieve in which any curd contained in it is=’cor.ected. This curd is called slip-curd, and by some dairy-maids is not returned to the tub. The wvight and board are shortly re- moved, and such part of the curd as has been squeezed from under them is again ccl]eete simple method will give you an excellent idea of soils. True, it is very rough, and the experienced chemist would not adopt it — but it gives you three principal items in a soil, viz: the clay, the sand, and the or- ganic matter; it is true itdoesnot enable him to find the lime, but that you can easily supply bv attention to the next method of analysis. It gives you the absorbent powers of the soil, by which you may form an idea of the condition of the vegetable matter in it. Thus, if a loamy soil loses an eighth of its weight in the process of becoming really, alter it is apparently dry, you must conclude that its vegetable matter is mostly converted into humus, which is highly absorbent and retentive of moisture. If, on the other hand, a loamy soil which will show a great loss by burning, shows only slight absorb- ent qualities, it proves, the vegetable matter is not decomposed, and therefore not so valuable. Suppose we take a couple of handfuls ol the soil in your clover field, Here it is. It is not stiffand clayey, nor yet is it loose and sandy. It may be considered a stiff loam. There are no fibres in it, except a few trifling grass roots, which are nothing. We dry it, and weigh 4 ounces. Set that over the fire, or the oven top, and throw two or three scraps of while paper amongst it; stir it about until those bits of pa- per begin to brown; weigh it now; it weighs 3§ ounces. We writedown, “ water of absorp tion, § ounce.” Throw the ounces on the shovel and make it red hot: we therefore write, “vegetable matter apparently decomposed J ounce” — (we say “apparently decomposed,” because we cannot see any appearance of un- decomposed fibre in the soil except a grass root or so.) Take the 3 ounces and throw into the mortar with some soft water. Gently rub it with the pestle and let it stand awhile to steep. Rub it up and gently pour off the muddy water. Wash the sand again and again. There, now throw the sand remaining upon the shovel. Burn it over the fire to get rid of the moisture. Weigh it— it w’eighs one ounce. There is, therefore, two ounces for clay and loss. We therefore write out our report. Four ounces of the “clover field” soil, by rough ana- lysis, gave, water of absorption, J or I2i per cent., or 5 ounce; vegetable matter, principally decomposed, J or 12J per cent., or J ounce; sand and silicious particles, J or 25 perct., or 1 ounce; clay and loss, J or 50 per cent., or 2 ounces— 4 ounces. From such an analysis every person who is accustomed to make or even to read analyses of soils, will at once get the principal features of his soil, most of the essential particulars, ex- cept the lime, which may be sought for by the following experiment, if thought necessary; Take a couple of ounces of the same soil, dry it thoroughly, rub it to a fine powder in the mortar, grinding it as fine as dust; over this dry powder pour diluted muriatic acid, say hall acid and halt rain water; if it contains lime there will be a considerable effervescence. Stir it at intervals, and add more diluted acid until there is no effervescence produced; let it stand until the next day, when, if calcareous or limy matter is present it w'ill have been dissolv- ed ; add more diluted acid and stir it well up; let it stand till the liquor is quite clear, and then pour it off; add more pure water; stir, al- low to clear, and likewise pour off ; by this pro- cess the lime will be got rid ol. You then drain the earth through a piece of blotting paper, and dry on a-hot.shovel or iron plate. When tho- roughly dry weigh it, and the loss will show the amount of lime in the soil, which ranges, from the smallest possible per centage up to 35 or 40 per cent, of the entire soil, according as the soil is calcareous or not. If, on applying the diluted muriatic acid to the soil, no effervescence takes place, you need not pursue the remainder of the experiment, as it is evident there is no lime. It the two ounces should lose i of an ounce of lime, w’hich would amount to 13j per cent, of the whole, you may deduct 12^ per cent, from the “clay and loss” of the former experi- ment, and add the lime to the catalogue. The best way to practice this method is, in your leisure to fill a few bottles with various kinds of soil that you know — say a very good soil, a middling soil, and a bad soil — a clay, a loam, and a sand; ana^ze them each once or twice over and keep the results by you. When you want to analyze a soil that you don’t know, you can judge its results by these that you are intimate with. Besides, the experiments will give you practice and profiniency. The mode is so extremely simple that any person may adopt it, even if his apparatus is of the most scanty and imperlect kind. It re- quires nothing but common patience, ordinary attention, and a desire to learn. It is, moreo- ver, extremely useful for practical purposes. From the Horticulturist. The Best FiveWiutei* Pears. Mr. Downing: — You ask me for the results of my experience as to what I consider “the best Jive varieties oj winter Pears.'’ I comply at the spur of the moment. I regret that at the present lime my engagements will only permit of devoting the passing hour to the subject, and will necessarily compel me to pass more hastily over it than I could wish, for one of its impor- tance. The list, how ever, is made up from ma- ny years’ experience v ith the varieties named; of which I can confidently recommend as worthy of extensive cultivation. For more particular descriptions than will be found in the following remarks, reference may be had to the various Pomological w’orksoflhe day. I com- mence v.'ith that “ Prince of Pears,” the 1. Beurre d’Arembero. — This vaiieiyhas, for the last ten years, never failed toyieldmean abundant crop ol its delicious Iruit. It has of- ten been exhibited at the rooms of the Massa- chusetts Horticultural Society, always receiv- ing the unqualified approbation of our most ex- perienced amateurs and cultivators. Possess- ing all the characteristics of a first-rate table pear, it retains at maturity, its flavor and cham- pagne sprighlliness, with all the freshness of a specimen just plucked from the tree. The fo- liage and fruit adhere with a remarkable tena- city, resisting the frosts and gales of autumn better than those ot most other varieties. Asa constant, prolific, hardy sort, the d’Aremberg is unsurpassed, and whether on the pear or quince stock, proves admirably adapted to this climate. It keeps as well as a Russet apple, and requires no further care than to gather in a dry day, and pack at once from the air, in close boxes or bar- rels— with no other precaution, it has been found in a state ol perlect preservation in the month of January. Season, December to Feb- ruary. The Beurre d’Aremberg is a fruit ea- sily excited to maturity, and may be brought into eating in November, or retarded until March. 2. Winter Nelis. — This is classed second in my list, not from any inferiority to the first named variety, lor, in tact, as a sweet, melting wine pear, it has no equal. Connoisseurs gen- erally prefer the brisk, vinous juice ol the d’A- remberg, but some of our good judges esteem the Nclis above all others of the season. The growth of the tree is not strong, but more so on the quince, to which it seems well adapt- ed; it is hardy and thrilty in rich soils, other- wise the shoots are more stinted and feeble than is usual with most other sorts. To obtain spe- cimens above medium size, requires high culti- vation and some thinning ol the fruit. Keeps and ripens well, and bears good crops. Sea- son, November to January. 3. CoLDJUBiA.— This excellent native variety has proved with me a fruit more uniformly smooth, perfect in sl.ape, and free from the de- predations of insects, than almost any other sort. The tree is thrifty and hardy, not prolific when young, bins sreaieT hearer on mature THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 183 .subjects, the fruit being regularly distributed over the branches, and of very uniform size. I was so much pleased with this variety when it first came to my notice, that 1 despatched a spe- cial messenger from the city of New York, to the owner of the original tree in Westchester county, for half a bushel of the pears ; and I did not regret the expense of twelve and a half dol- lars, when I consider the acquisition of such a fine American variety. My Beurre Diels were then in eating, and 1 judged the Columbia of equal quality; since which, however, 1 have seldom seen it so good. Ripens about the first of January; of a clear lemon yellow, very handsome, and may be kept two or three weeks in this state. Its beauty will give it a ready sale, and its quality and its merits, on the whole, if not as high as our first impression, will prove perfectly satisfactory. 4. Glout Morceau. — This pear, under the name of Beurre d’Aremberg, is more univer- sally cultivated in France, as a winter fruit, than any other variety. It is truly an excellent, rich, sugary pear, and is not unworthy of the appellation given it, The tree is hardy, a great and constant bearer; but it requires, like most pears, good cultivation. Few varieties succeed so well on the quince as the Glout Morceau ; a tree of which, in my own ground, annually produces a barrel of large perfect fruit; this is clear waxy yellow, and very handsome at ma- turity; keeps into the winter months, with ordi- oary care; commands as good a price in the market, and is esteemed by many equal to the Beurre d’xlremburg. It varies much in form. In growth, k is more luxuriant on the quince ; the large specimens frequently having a very thick, short stem, set angularly on the fruit, with the peculiar knobby appearance of the d’- Aremberg. On the pear stock, and under me- dium cultivation, the stem is smooth and straight, as figured by Thompson in the Gar- dener’s Chronicle, and Downing in the Fruits and Fruit Trees of America. From this cir- cumstance, the present subject has been con- founded with the Beurre d’Aremberg. Season, December and January. 5 Passe Colmar. — As a hardy, vigorous, excellent near, the Passe Colmar has few su- periors. It is prolific to a fault, and requires j udicious managemer t. To insure fruit cor- responding to its character in the Catalogue of the London Horticultural Society, “ first size, and first quality,” it is necessary to commence the trimming process as early in the season as the best specimens can be distinguished, or the pruning out of half the fruit-bearing spurs in the month of March, as recommended by the late Mr. Manning, will contribute to relieve the tree of its overbearing propensity. The French make two varieties of this pear, viz: Passe Colmar gr is, and Passe Colmar (lore. 1 have never discovered any difference in the fruit of these trees, that only which is exposed to the sun, having the golden color alluded to, the beauty of which is sometimes with us further enhanced by a red cheek. This tree makes long weeping branches, and frequently sets a second crop of fruit, which should always be removed. Ripens gradually from November to Febru- ary, but may be kept later, large and beautiful soecimens having been received by me from New Bedford, as the Colmar d'Hiver, on the iSth day of March. Without the adoption of the system of cul- ture here recommended, this variety will gene- rally prove unsatisfactory. An inquiry Will no doubt arise in the minds of some of our readers, why the Easter Beurre has not found a place in the above list. Mv answer is, that although we obtain some speci- mens of first-rate excellence, yet this variety has generally proved s) variable and uncertain that it cannot Irom our experience at present, be recomnendel for general disse.nination. It ho A'ever succeeds better on the quince. Respectfully yours, Marshall P. Wilder. Bosfoti^June 1, 1816. From the Maine Farmer. Importance of Knowledge to the Farmer. There is no branch of business within our knowledge which requires, lor its most success- ful prosecution, so great an amount of scienti- fic information as farming. The practical far- mer has something to do in all the grand de- partments ol nature — in the vegetable, animal and mineral kingdoms — with organic and inor- ganic matter. It has been remarked, with strict truth perhaps, that all the energy of the Hero, and all the science of the Philosopher, may find scope in the cultivation of one farm ! And it would indeed require all this energy and sci- ence to bring the majority of the farms about us from their present condition to the highest state of excellence of which they are suscepti- ble. The farmer goes forth among the works of God, and into the garden of the Creator to dress it and to keep it. With all natural objects and changes about him he should endeavor to be- come familiar. Almost every science, as geol- ogy, meteorology and entomology, may afford him assistance in his labors. The highly suc- cessful farmer cannot be ignorant. He must be a man of science, industry and good judg- ment. There is no danger of his knowing too much for his business; and he can scarcely en- large the circle of his knowledge in any direc- tion without thereby gathering something which is calculated to render him more successful in his occupation. In order to be eminently suc- cessful, it is necessary tor him thoroughly to understand the nature of his own soil, and its capabilities. He should know in what ingre- dients it is deficient, and what it has in excess — how to render it fertile, and howto maintain its fertility. He should also know what crops are best adapted to the peculiarities ol his soil and situation — the best method of cultivating them, and the cheapest and most suitable dress- ing for them. He should have such a know- ledge of the diseases to which the different kinds of plants he cultivates are subject as will ena- ble him to take that course which is best calcu- lated to avoid them. He should also be able as much as possible to preserve his crops from the ravages of destructive insects, and this he can- not do without some knowledge of their habits and peculiarities. Of none of these subjects can the farmer well afford to be ignorant, for oftentimes upon his knowledge of these things depends the fruits of his labors; and it may re- quire years of careful study and observation to obtain this knowledge w'hieh is so important in the business of agriculture. In every department of his business he has need of thorough information and the careful deductions of experience. For instance, in the selection of a farm, if he has occasion to pur- chase one, perhaps a thousand things are to be taken into consideration besides soil and situa- tion; and an ignorant person is not qualified to select the best lot on every account Irom a do- zen. If he has taken wildland, clearings are to be made; and how can this work be done at the least expense and so as not to impoverish the soil? Much fertilizing matter, lor which many farms are now suffering, has been wast- ed for want of knowledge in this particular on the part of those who first settled upon them, it die takes a farm which has been badly ma- naged and in consequence has become unpro- ductive, he has need of knov/ledge to direct him in the right way of reclaiming it and re- storing it to productiveness. The w'ork ot re- claiming a ‘ worn out’ farm is at best a difficult one, and to the ignorant farmer it is generally hopeless. With such it is emphatically an up-hill business, and in many instances it has brought on a fever which has carried the farm- er far away from the home of his youth. His farm is to be stocked. What proportion of each of the different kinds should he keep? What breeds are best adapted to his purposes? How are his animals to be bred and managed so as not to deteriorate? How may they be improved? To succeed in this branch of bu- siness, he must not be ignorant of their nature and habits, or of the diseases to which they are liable, and their remedies. He must plow and cultivate. In choosing suitable tools, and in using ttem properly, a knowledge of the general principles of mecha- nics would not come amiss. He needs a team; this must be reared and trained, and kept in working condition. And V hat animals are best fitted tor the business of his farm? How should they be managed? His land must be manured. What ingredi- ents are needed 1 Ho w can they be most readily obtained, and how most profitably ap^ilied ? What crops are most profitable, taking into consideration the cost of cultivating and mar- keting, his situation, and the nature of his soil ? The knowledge of the good farmer must ba extensi/eand accurate; and if he has an in- quiring, observing mind, he will be a learner lor life. 1 he acme of agricultural improve- ment has not yet been attained. The farm cannot be found which may not be improved by industry and knowledge. And the wisest men among us probably have not knowledge enough to cultivate even one small farm in the best manner possible — to draw out all its resources, and to bring it to the highest state of produc- tiveness. The farmer should strive to make progress in his business — in the managementof his farm he should always be going on “from good to better.” From the Georgia Journal, Use of Lime* Mr. Editor— Believing that the following may be of service to Farmers, I feel it my duty to let ihera know it. The question is frequent- ly asked me, why it is that the worm never in- jures my cotton, whilst that of my neighbors is ruined ? And why it is that 1 raise more wheat to the acre, and that no disease or insect ever affects it? lean only say that it is from the free use of Lime. For several years past, I have used Lime as a manure on my wheat and cotton — on my wheat by sowing it broad cast, and on my cotton 'ey putting it in the drill. I used from two to three barrels of Lime to the acre. I find that the abundance it produced by the use of Lime, over and above what it other- wise would produce, more than paid me for the money advanced for the Lime the first year, not saying any thing about the advantage to be derived from the same lime foryears after wards, as a manure, as it becomes impregnated in the land, and takes years for it to become wasted; and also the fact ofits being a preventive of in- sects and diseases of all kinds. Why it is that it prevents the worm and insects, is for others to answer, who know the properties of lime better than I do. This year my neighbor L -’s cotton field adjoined mine, nothing but a fence between; his crop was partially destroyed with the worm, whilst mine was not injured. The worm attacked my cotton at the same time, but soon disappeared without doing any injury. This has been the case for several years, ever since i have used lime, whilst my neighbor L — " used none. I have had the same de- monstrations in my wheat, which has forced me to believe that it was from the use of lime. There is no doubt but that the lime goes farth- er, and answers the same purpose, by using it with muck, peat, or compost, but I have been so well paid by using the raw lime that I have never tried it any other way. My lime has cost me one dollar and fifty cents per barrel, I be- lieve that it could and ought to be furnished for less, but Farmers can well afford to pay one dollar and filty cents for lime as a manure, at least this is my experience. Yours, respect- tully, David L. P. McLanb. FayellevilLe, Ga,, Oct. 4, 1846. The vintages throughout the whole of Europe (England not excepted,) have this season yield- ed a supply of grapes which, for quantity as well as quality, has perhaps never been equal- led, or at all events excelled, in the present gen- eration. 184 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR 0ciutl)ern (Eiiltixiatou AUGUSTA, GA. vor.. IV., L\0. 12...I>ECB:;i«BEiR, 1846. To Onr Patrons. As the present number .concludes the Fourth Volume of the “ Soots ebn Cpltivatoh,” the publishers deem it a fit occasion, kind patrons, to hold a little converse with you. It is no: our purpose to flatter you with soft and honied phrase, or laud our own efforts in the cause of Southern Agricu-ltural improvement. Rather let us deal in the language of frankness and candor. We prefer this, as well from our con- victions of its propriety as from our inclinations, believing it the only sure and safe means of con- tinuing an acquaintance, which, we trust, has been moit agreeably formed, and will continue to dispense mutual benefits to you and our- selves. With this numoer, then, we have per- formed our part of the contract entered into between the patrons of the Cultivator and our- selvesj How it has been performed, you, of course, must judge. If your decision be favor- able, we hope you will renew the relations ot Patrons and Publishers, which cease with this number, by subscribing for the next volume, the first number of which w ill be issued in January. It is not only our desire that each of you should again become subscribers, but we indulge the hope that you will make an effort to induce your neighbors and friends also lo subscribe. This policy will be doing your whole duty to yourselves and to society, and by it we shall be rewarded for our efforts in attempting to sustain a work exclusively devoted to .Southern Agriculture. Having said thus much of what we desire you should, and we think those of you who value the work, ought to do, let us now say what we have done and are doing to make the work worthy of the support of yourselves, your friends and neighbors. We have already order- ed new type, and the January number will ap- pear in an entire new dress, and we hope greatly improved in appearance. We have made and are making arrangements for its embellishment with elegant engravings, in all the departments of husbandry. To do all these things requires a large expenditure of money, which we have made, relying upon the liberality and justice of the Planters of the Southern States to sustain us. How fully our co^niidence in their liberality and justice will be justified, remains for them to make known. This, then, is the appropriate time for action on your part — and if the effort be made with that seal and energy which you are wont to bestow on any enterprise in which you feel an interest, your success will be as certain as it will be tri- umphant. Jn conclusion, permit us to repeat our desire that eve'^y subscriber to the present volume will immediately forward his subscription for the next volume, and use some exertion to induce his friends and neighbors to unite with him. Science and Agriculture. Some how or other we have not been, during the last month, at all in the humor for writing. Hence the meagreness of our editorials in this Those 20,000 Subscribers I ! 1 The Publishers have taken the responsibility of publishing the subjoined extract from a letter of John A. Calhoun, of Eufaula, Ala., to the Editor, which they commend to every reader of the Cultivator as worthy of their imitation. A few such friends as Mr. C., and the Publishers would never be subjected to the humiiiating po sition of making appeals in almost every number for support. How many such friends can the Southern Cultivatos boast ol in Gfeotgia and Alabama? But to the letter ; Eufala, Nov. 13/A, 1846. M R. Editor : * * * Since my last to you announcing my intention to become the substitute ol Col. McDonald in carrying out his proposal, I have been constantly confined to my home with a sick family; and hence have been able lo do but little towards redeeming my pledge. I hope however, as my family’s health is improving, that I shall be abreyet to do some- thing from this to the first ol January next. 1 brought lorwardihe claims of the Cultivator before the last meeting ol our Society; and it was resolved by the members present, that we would furnish ONE hundred subscribers from this county, embracing those who are now sub- scribers. This 1 think we will do, and hope that the other sections of this Stale may do the same. VVe will try, however, and make up two hun- dred from this county. Our Society will meet again in the course of three weeks, after wliich you may expect again to hear from me. Yours, respecilully, John A. Calhoun. We subjoin the list of those who have enlisted under the banner of the lamenteJ McDonald : Col. A. McDonald, Eufaula, Ala. fi. McCroan, Louisville, (ia. T. W. Rucker, Elberton, Ga. C.. Dougherty, Athens, Ga. G. B. Haygood, Watkinsville, Ga. Wm. T. DeWitt, Hopewell, Ala. H. E. Chitty, Henry Co. Ala. Wju. Cunningham, Monroe Co. Ala. G. B. ZuBEH, White Sulphur Springs, Ga. John C. Henderson, Macon Co. Ala. Jas. J. Banks, Etion, Ala. Committee. J. R. Tuenes. 3 From the Massachusetts Ploughman. Agricultural Reading. Mr. Editor:— Many valuable hints to farm- ers are found in the Ploughman, as well as in other kindred prints. Studious, industrious farmers are always glad to avail tbemselves of these hints as helps in the pursuit of their voca- tion ; hence, no good farmer, ambitious to excel in his calling, will be without some well con- ducted agricultural journal, as a prompter in the labors of the field. Agricultural reading is becoming pretty general now-a-days among larmers. I rejoice to see it. It bespeaks a thrilt, honorable in it- self, and lending to much good. It cannot lail in the end, to raise the standard of the plow to its legitimate place among the other callings of the land. But agricultural reading should mostly be practical, not merely theoretical. Pacts and experiments should be detailed by the observer and experimenter himsell, together with the re- sults that follow'. These agricultural papers should be careful- ly preserved and kept on file, and, at the close of the volume, stitched ; and thus, with the help of an index, they become a book of reference, at hand and convenient at all times. A neat and careful farmer will attend to this. Farmers should respect themselves ; should educate liieinselves, their sons and their daugh- ters to become uselul and happy at home on the farm ; should make the farm and home the nur- sery of great thoughts and good actions. The great and beloved Washington \va« n fanner and delighted in farming. The seeds ol his after greatness were sown while in his youth, on the farm. Though perhaps no one of us is destined to become a great Wshington, yet we can all become Zi^ilZc Washingtons by the prac- tice of virtue, the love of country, and a mind trained to noble patriotism. So mote it be. I said agricultural reading has beconre pretty general at this day among farmers. Twenty- five years ago it was not so. Few agricultural papers were then published, and religious and political papers at that time introduced little or nothing on the subject of farming into their c®- lumns. But how is it now? Scores of papers in every part of our country have come to life devoted principally and ostensibly to the cause ol farming; besides, all other papers contain more or less agricultural reading matter in them. This augurs a living and growing inte- rest in the cause of the farmer. Let the farmer rejoice at the prospect before and all around him. Yea, I say let him look up and rejoice, and persevere, and hope for the consnuimation of all laudable good in his behalf. A taste for reading is of inestimable value to larmers as well as to other classes of men. Now persons that have not a love for reading and mental improvement can estimate its value in the journey of life, especially as old age draws on. Addison, the great English moral- ist of the seventeenth century, has told us a taste for reading and the cultivation ol the mind naturally render old age cheerlul and hap- py. Think of this, reader, especially if you are young. Who would not be cheerful and happy when they grow old ! It has long been my anxious desire to see farmers every where more intelligent, more ex- alted and more worthy the station they occupy in this great and goodly republic. Well would it be for our wide extended realm, should a no- ble, virtuous, intelligent yeomanry arise and boldly stand forth to sway our country’s destiny against demagoguism and the hand that would corrupt and lead astray from the good old paths of the founders of republicanism and the rights of man. “Ill fares the land, to hastening ills a prey, Where wealth accumulates, and men decay. • * » e • • * A bold peasantry, their country’s pride. When once destroyed, can jjever be supplied.” Respectfully, B.F. Wilbur. Piscataquis Co., Me., August 24, 1846. From the Albany Cultivator. - Neatness in Farming. We have somewhere heard the remark that with the good farmer every thing gives way to his busine.ss — that utility is all, and appearance nothing; hence you are not to expect neatness about his dwelling, his door-yard being cut up into mud by the lurm wagon and the manure cart, contiguity ot barn, pig pens, and kitchen, such as convenience, and no freedom from the peculiar odors of hog yard and rich manure heap, may dictate. Now, to speak bluntly, this is all nonsense. It so happens that in farming, neatness and thrift almost invariably go together. The same love of order which prompts the farmer to clear his yard ol broken barrels, old hoops, fragments of boards, and sticks of wood, and whatever else defaces and defiles his premises — also prompts him to have a place tor every thing and every thing in its place, which is calculated to bear upon real and substantial profit. Some of the very best farmers with whom we are acquainted — whose eminent success and heavy profits separate them in this respect in bold distinctness from the rest of their neighbors — are patterns of neatness; and the touch of their hand in the expulsion of every kind of nuisance is visible all over their farms. Their door yards show that the master is ” at home ;” the barn yard, which is not so near the house that all the butter and cheese manufactured is flavored with the effluvia, exhibits the same neatness, even, where all the refuse of other places is collected for enriching in due time the rest of the farm. A farmer of ouracquaintance, with 160 acres, in whose farm-yard we could scarcely ever discover a wisp of straw in the wrong place, remarked, “ O, I don’t attempt to make a great deal from ray larm — I expend so much in improvements, that ray clear profits are only about a thousand dollars a year. An- other of those neat larmers in whose field cockle, docks and chess obtain no foothold, nor along whose fences a solitary elder-bush or nettle is ever seen, raised twenty-seven hundred dollars worth ol farm produce at the prices of 1844, and both of these farmers live in Western New York, where prices are comparatively low, en- tirely away from the peculiar advantages of market which nearness to great cities gives. Now, let no one say that these remarks are made at the wrong season of the year, and that nothing can be done for neatness and order in the winter. The same general rule, in some shape or variation, has an almost infinite num- ber of applications. The care of domestic ani- mals in winter, needs pre-eminently the appli- cation of this rule. No animal can thrive well in the midst of dirt. Even a pig does not love dtrt for dirt’s sake— he only happens to be so' much ol a philosopher, or rather stoic, that he is willing to endure dirt for the sake ol a soft and cool bed in summer; for it has been found that these animals thrive better and fatten much faster when kept clean and well curried. Horses and cattle are often neglected in clean- liness. We have actually known some who did not clean the manure from horse stables for months, allowing it gradually to thicken under foot with the accumulating litter till a foot in thickness — and reasoning doubtless as the boy did who combed bis hair once a month, and was astonished that such torture and trouble from the operation could be endured daily by other people. A farmer who does his own chores, can hardly afford to keep his horses so finely as the gentleman of wealth, who has a man for no other purpose ; but every one should have his stable floor perfectly clean at least twice a day, once in the morning, and once at night, before littering, and oftener would be bet- ter. the oftener done the easier accomplished. There are many other particulars where neat- ness may be attended to in winter. Gate hinges and gate fastenings often need repair, that they may shut like clock-work ; boards become loose on old barns and board fences; tools become awkward for use and need remodelling or re- newing; and many other small matters, in doors and out, require attention. We are a- ware that to many of our readers, who are al- ready examples for others, such hints as the preceding are not applicable — to such we lean say that they need not read them-.-like the man who chisseled on the stone at the fording place, “ When the water comes to this stone it is un- safe to cross.” Fertile Soils* The efforts of science have already succeed- ed in demonstrating in the most satisfactory manner, that in order to be fertile, a soil must contain all the mineral ingredients which en- ter into the plants intended to be grown upon it, and under such circumstances, and in such condition as to render them easily available by the roots ot plants; and in sufficient quanti- ty to ensure a supply, by some judicious and economical system of cultivation, during the growth of the crop, whatever it may be. It should also be so constituted as to ren- der it easily permeable by the roots — con- sisting of a due admixture of impalpable matter, with a quantum sufficit of larger particles, so that it may possess the ad- vantage of porosity, and admit the fructifying agents without obstruction to assist in the per- fection and maturation ol the crop. There should also be present in the soil a due propor- tion of matter capable ot undergoing chemical changes, and intermixed therewith, a supply of organic particles, capable of decomposition through the agency ot air and water. THE SOlfT'HERN CULTIVATOR. 189 Hereford Cow, “Matchless.” — Imported bxj W. H. Sotham, Esq., Albany, N. Y. HEREFORD CATTLE NO. II* The beautiful cut which we give of one one of the naost symmetrical cows ever import- ed into America, is, as lar as we are capable of judging with the naked eye, a most capital and taithlul likeness ol that animal. We saw her at Hereford Hall, near Albany, in 1844, on a day when her capacity as a milker was submitted to the piercing eye of no less a judge than Dan- iel Webster, who, amongst his various tran- scendant qualities, is well known to the farmers ot the Northern States, as one ol the very best judges ol neat cattle. Mr. Webster pronounced Matchless “ The best cow for all purposes'' he had ever seen. His scrutiny extended to every part ol this model cow, and as his ungloved hand pressed her silken coat, and tried her flowing udders at the pail, a glow of honest farmer like pleasure lighted up his swarthy face— the remem- brance of the joys of boyhood seemed to have driven the vexed cares of the politician Irom his heart, and he stood among his brother far- mers in the only capacity in which he has ever been true to the noble attributes ot his genius — as “the farmer ot Marshfield.” Matchless, previous to this time, had carried off the high- est prizes at the Smithfield Show in England, and had been equally successful before the prej u- dicedShort-horn judges with whichtheState Ag- ricultural Society ot New York had been bur- thened. She was imported by Mr. Sotham, at a high figure, but we believe he has never been repaid for his enterprise, and the determination with which he set out, viz; ol “ havingthe best cow in England.” Matchless, like all highly prized animals, died in 1845, and left but few of her progeny— but those few areol a superbeast. The illustration of the Hereford cow, bred by the Earl of Talbo^ in Professor Low’s Breeds of Domestic Animals, is before us as we write, and comparing the outline of that plate, with that of Matchless, we find it to be identical in every particular; remarking at the same time, that for symmetry and some of the boasted characteristics claimed specially lor the Short horns, the latter excels the repre- sentation made as a model of this breed. We al- so take the liberty of testifying to the remark- able similarity of appearance displayed in this herd of Messrs. Sotham and Corning, which was so perfectly matched, that to a person un- accustomed to seeing the ring-streaked and speckled Jacob’s cattle” of the country, ' it was difficult, even alter an acquaintance of weeks, to designate one particular cow from another. They alt look alike, and are conse- quently a pure breed. The Hereford cattle have not had a fair chance, even in England, and in this country the illiberality of a cliqueot Short horn breeders did all it could to drive them from before the breeding public. The public, however, have the satisfaction of seeing this very clique them- selves driven out of sight in their own class, by the liberality and excellent skill displayed by Mr. George Vail, of Troy, who has made it his pride, annually, to import one or more of the best Short horns from England, and who had the satisfaction, at the late Agricultural fair of New York, to have the six highest p’-emiums award- ed to animals bred and exhibited by himself. We intend, as soon as vve get through with the Herelords, to give our attention to true Short horns, such as are bred by Mr. Vail. The Herelords have suffered much from want of ad- vocates, who had access to the public through agricultural journals and works. As cattle tor the tenantry, they were wide spread throughout the South and interior of England, but the Messrs. Colling brought out the fashion of the Short horn breed, which took like wild-fire with the nobility and gentry of the country, and what was really the luckiest cross which ever happened in the world, fell into the hands of those who were able to spend thousands of pounds upon a single animal, and the result was the establishment of that parazon of breeds, “ the true Short Horn,” which will always be a favorite one with those who are able to bestow on them extraordinary care and extra food. It was different with the Herefords. They were in the handsof the small farmers and tenantry — who, like our own agriculturists ot the present day, did not seem to understand the economical policy of giving an animal all it would con- sume, and turning its carcase into cash for re invesiment, at the earliest possible age. Yet with all these disadvantages, without a trumpet- er save the butcher and butter-maker, the Here- fords held an even race with their pampered rivals, and since they have been taken up by those persons who manifest an interest in im- proving them, they have carried off a flattering proportion of all the premiums, wherever ex- hibited. .Mr. Tompkins, who died about thirty years since, was the first improver of this breed. His exertions were cotemporaneous with those of the celebrated Bakewcll, whose improved - L' icesler breeds ot cattle, sheep and swine aston- ished the world. After M r. Tompkins, came Mr. Price; and latterly the Earl of Talbot, and the noble, generous and heariy-souled Earl of Warwick, have taken hold of them with a right good will. This last adoption of the breed will do much for it even in England, where ten to one of the Herefords still remain, in the hands of the petty, rent-paying, high taxed far- mers, who can scarcely keep the thatch on the roof over them and straw in the manger. There have been no exhibitions ol “ Hereford Oxen,” or “Immense Herelord Heifers,” to bring them before the public, and to secure attention to them. Their history is crammed away in a page or page and a hall by Cully, Bailey, the Rev. Henry Berry Loudon, and that modem authority Youalt, who palmed a most disgrace- ful production, as far as the history of British cat- tle is concerned, on the “Society for the Diffu- sion of Uselul Knowledge,” We regret that it has been so extensively circulated in America, and were rejoiced to see it announced that “Lewis F. Allen, in his celebrated history of Short horns has demolished Youatt’s authority.” Youatt was a pretender who compiled a book, the different accounts of breeds which it con- tained being written by interested breeders, and which is now banished from the countenance of the Engli'h breeders, throughout the kingdom, by reason of its many errors and false state- ments. The only valuable portion of Youatt’s work is the Veterinary Department, which, however, is not so reliable as Clater’s Cattle Doctor, with notes by John S. Skinner, But with all the disadvantages of poverty in owner- ship and tilled opponents, against whom they have had to contend, the Herefords have work- ed themselves into high favor and notice iu England. Though not so quick as the Devons — they bring more weight to the yoke, and their proverbial docility makes them the best oxen to be found in the woild. They are prized as hardy, wei i const! tutioned, thrifty and profitable animals for all the purposes ot the agricultural breeder, and must, sooner or later, become a breed as popular in America as it is valuable elsewhere. it is l.~ue, the Herelords will not live on the wind, or on sedge straw and sunny hill-sides in winter, and a burnt up pasture in summer, and it is equally true that as long as we expect to convert these almost intangible agricultural aids into flesh. bone and blood, we will never be able to keep Herefords or any other good breed of cattle. We want a breed of cattle which, by converting good food into flesh, butter and ma- nure, will repay us for extra care bestowed on them. We honestly believe that the Herefords will do this as certainly as any breed which now obtains, and look forward to the day wlien they will at least stand on the same platform with their beautiful rivals the Short Horns, and then we can say “ with a lair field and honest judges,” we will ask no odds to ensure them triumphant competition. In our next, we shall abridge Professor Low’s history and bring other claims of this breed to notice. R'ivenseToJl,S.C.,Nov.ym>. A. G. SUMMER. 190 THE SOUTHERN CULTIVAl’OR ^griaxlUiral ilUetings. Monroe and Conecuh Agricultural Society. Mr. Camak: — In accordance with a resolu- tion of the Monroe and Conecuh County Agri- cultural Society, I send you a report of a Com- mittee that was appointed at our last meeting to investigate the nature of our soils and the best means within our reach of ameliorating them, with a request that you have the report published in the Southern Cultivator. Respectfully yours, &c,, John Green, Corr’g Secretary. Burnt Corn^ Ala., Oct. 10, 1846. The Committee to whom was referred the subject of ‘^investigating the nature of our soils and the best means within our reach of ame- liorating them,” beg leave to submit the follow- ing REPORT: Asa full knowledge of soils can be derived only from arralytic chemistry, which requires not only the chemist but the laboratory, we do not suppose that any such thing was contem- plated as a presentation to the Society of a re- port upon the various ingredients, as well as their relative proportions which enter into the composition of soils. Your Committee there- fore will be content to present to you such gen- eral views pertaining to the nature of soils as they have been able to collect from limited ex- perience and observation, aided by a partial knowledge ot chemistry. In the infantile state of our Society we believe that some general and practical observations will be more likely to prove acceptable and useful than a minute scientific account, embracing, as it necessarilv would, many of the technicalities ot science, which might prove unmeaning, terms to plain practical planters. All soils possess three piincipal ingredients, namely: sand, clay and lime. These are not only required to be present, but they must be combined in certain proportions, and the more thorough the comminution and intermixture, the better. These fhree earths- are generally found in nature in a state of binary compound, having had their several bases, silicum, alumi- niu-'^ icd 2 iljium, acted upon by oxygen, and coijsdtuting what are termed oxides. Many experiments have been instituted by different men for the purpose ot ascertaining those pro- portions best suited to vegetation. According to Tillet, the most fertile mixture he could pro- duce consisted of three-eighths clay, three- eighths finely pulverized limeston-e, and two- eighths sand. In the analyses of natural soils which we have examined, made by men whose attain- ments in science entitle them to much credit, we do not often find so large a proportion of lime as three-eighthsj and even the alluvial soil of the river Nile, which must be regarded as {he ne plus ultra of fertility, does not contain so much, according to the analysis of Silliman. Your Committee think, however, as a standard, ■we should not err widely in taking the above proportions. Prom the best examination of the subject we have been able to make, we think the soils of Monroe and Conecuh counties abound too largely in silex or sand for the clay and lime they possess. This excess of sand gives to them too much porosity, which causes vegetation upon them to suffer much during dry weather, and detracts much too from their susceptibility of improvement, as the elements of manures put upon them rapidly descend and are in a great degree lost. On the other hand, if clay exist in excess (which is rarely the ease in the opinion of your Committee, in these counties, as most of our clays are largely mixed with sand,) the soil is found to have too much te- nacity, not sufficiently friable, is too retentive of moisture and consequently cold. Such soil is necessarily unproductive from the fact of two of the most powerful agents of vegetation being in a great degree excluded, namely, heat and atmospheric air. We are aware of the great repugnance existing among many planters to clay, and especially red clay, from the fad, we suppose, of associating with it the poverty ot worn out and gullied hill sides, which are usu- ally presented to us in a scarlet garment, but as an ingredient of good soil it must be regarded as indispensable. Much clay too contains, be- sides alumina, a considerable portion of lime and sumetiires some of the fixed alkalies, or perhaps the volatile alkali, ammonia, supplied probably by rain water, all ol which tends to render it fertile. When clay is exposed to the action of the atmospheric air it becomes fria- ble and pulverable, and ceases to be of that co- hesive, unwieldy nature which it is first found to be. The fact is evinced by examining the clay which has been, brought to the surface by the roots of trees that have fallen. Having stated the three principal earthy com- ponents of soils, and, as nearly as we are able to arrive at it, their relative proportions, we pro- ceed to the second and most important part of our subject, namely, a consideration of the best means within our reach of amelioration. By agriculture we understand not only the prepar- ing and cultivating the soil, but the application to it of such chemical agents as give to it the highest degree of fertility, and consequently en- able us to reap the largest rewards for the labor bestowed. He who has learned only the first or mechanical part is but a novice, notwith- standing his head may have grown gray in the tillage ot his fields. The amelioration of soils by the application of manures, or “chemical agriculture,” is ac- complished by two different sets of agents; the first are those which increase productiveness by imparting an additional amount of nutritive matter; the second are those that develope and call into action such substances as are already existing in the soil, and which, having done all the good they are capable of effecting in their old combinations, require further decomposi- tion, from which result re-combinations, and thus they again become operative. It is not un- frequently the case that the same article is found productive of both these effects. This is true of animal manures generally. Vegetable manures on the contrary appear to act almost exclusively as aliment, exerting but little influ- ence as renovators of those substances which have been previously incorporated with the soil. To mineral manures belong the last named office ; they operate by improving the texture of the soil, and by their solvent powers, bringing into use all the insoluble humus; and by favoring and accelerating decomposition they make those substances yield up their nu- tritive matter, which would either forever lie dormant or else be so slowly parted with as to be productive of Iktle or no perceptible good. Most of the lands tilled in our counties have been subjected to a long course of wasteful cul- tivation, and so sterile have they beeome that some attention to their improvement is now im- periously demanded, or else they must be aban- doned as no longer capable of giving us sup- port. ’Tis true from their brokenness in many places locality discourages the effort to reclaim, but in many o'.hers position highly favors. The earthy components and their proportions, as well as the action of the three different classes ot manures described, being known, every planter should inquire what it is his soil needs. If he find it in want of new alimentative mat- ter, let him immediately proceed to raising sta- ble and cow-pen manures, and with them make a compost heap. It is, indeed, surprising how these things are neglected by most planters. The large amount of forest lands accessible to most of us renders it quite an easy matter to raise compost manures, especially if we are convenient to a pine forest, as many of us are, as pine straw answers a better purpose than al- most any other vegetable litter furnished by the forest. ’Tis true it contains much acid, and consequently is slow in undergoing decay by it- self, and from this circumstance is actually pro- ductive of injury very often when used alone, ‘^ut if thrown into our farm pens and trodden by animals, as well as mingled with their ex- crements, its acidity is corrected, its decompo- sition hastened, and it becomes an excellent in- gredient in the compost heap, adding largely both to the quantity and quality of the bulk. In the same manner oak leaves, corn stalks, oat straw, w.heat straw, and indeed everything bearing the name of vegetable may be convert- ed into highly useful matter. Our counties fa- vor much, as well as our climate, the raising of cows, which might be made very profitable by raising manures from them, to say nothing of their value in other respects. If, on the other hand, the planter should find upon exami- nation a sufficient quantity of aliment already existing, but wanting a chemical agent to bring it out, or in common language, his land is rich but tired, let him go to work in hunting lime or marl, for such is ihe agent for his purposes; and your Committee feel confident, irom the few ex- aminations they have made, it will be quite an easy task to find it in many places in great quan- tities and of superior quality. The article found so abundantly on Burnt Corn and Lime- stone Creeps, ot which no other use has as yet been made than to build chimneys, we think is one of the most valuable marls we have ever seen. Upon analysis it is found to contain a fraction over 81 per cent, of carbonate ot lime mixed with sand, thus constituting what is call- ed by writers sand-marl. Clay-marl, another variety, would be lonud to suit our sandy soils better if it could be found as rich in carbonate of lime. The lime, which is the principal agent sought after, would be the same in both instances, but the clay itself would make the clay marl answer a better purpose, because it would impart a greater degree of consistency to such soils as are too loose. Again, if the soil is too close the sand-marl will be found best. We wish to call attention particularly to this chimney rock, believing it will be found upon trial to serve most valuable purposes. It will, we believe, be found very available, as we learn the rains and freezes of o?ie winter, when pounded or broken into small lumps, will re- duce it to a powder. We earnestly request and hope that no article existing in such quantities, and from its chemical composition promising so much, will be passed by another year with- out many practical tests of its value. Your Committee might say much on the subject of applying marls, but they do not think it fairly comes within their sphere of duty and they re- frain. We cannot withhold an expression of the opinion that much benefit might result from curtailing the quantity of land cultivated, and making that which we do cultivate better. Muefilabor we believe might be saved, and u better yield to the hand. We have often beard it said that a man must plant largely to reap largely, but it is a saying fraught with error, if by planting largely is meani that a man must task himself, if his land be powr, with a large amount of surface, thereby hoping to- make up in quantity what his land may lack in quality. Let us work less and make it richer. Though the means ot amelioration embra- ced by mechanical agriculture are neither few nor unimportant, we shall be content with a few remarks only on this head. This is a part of the subject to which planters .have devotad-. themselves chiefly, and aware of the difficulty of removing them from the beaten paths of their grandfathers, to which many seem to cling with. almost the tenacity of the dying man to life, it is with diffidence we approach the subject of mechanical amelioration. The system ol cul- tivation adopted here we cannot regard in any other light than as highly defective. If our- planters could but be taught the important fact that the treasures they are in search of lie a lit- tle deeper in the earth than they have been ac- customed to regard them, and deeper too than they were in the days of their grandfathers, much, improvement, we think, would accrue to our mode o-f cultivation. Thesuperficial plow- ings and hoeings which we are in the habit of giving to our land, in many instances never THE SOUTHERN CULTIVATOR. 191 reach those treasures, or but barely skim their surfaces. How many thousands have ruptured all those endearing ties and fondly cherished re- membrances which bind every man to the land that gave him birth, and the home of his fa- thers, and, after many sacrifices of the earnings they have been years accumulating, taken up the line of march to a distant and new country, encountering all the privations and hardships necessarily incident to a long travel and a life in the wilderness, in search after virgin soil, when, by lengthening their plow points a few inches, perhaps they might have found it in their old, and, as they supposed, worn out fields. The plow is of more importance than any other, and we might say, than almost all others toge- ther, of agricultural implements. Of so much importance is it, that by the manner in which it is employed may be very fairly determined the character of the planter and his success. In preparing our lands for a crop it is of almost paramount importance to plow deeply. The advantages arising are very great. It enables the roots of plants to penetrate a greater depth, and, by encouraging ramification, they are made to occupy more space, consequently their chance both lor moisture and sustenance is pro- portionately augmented. By aeration of the soil too, chemical changes take place that other- *wise would not or could not, which not only generate an increased amount of food for plants, but also an additional quantity of caloric or heat, which is highly promotive of vegetable growth. For instance, a quantity of undecom- posed vegetable matter lies so deeply imbedded that it is not reached by the surface plow; as soon as the subsoil plow reaches it the oxygen of the atmosphere combines with the carbon of the vegetable, thus generating car^owtc acid gas, one of the chief supporters of vegetable life. In this process, as all know, is generated a large quantity of heat. The benefit of subsoil plow- ing will be clearly seen during dry weather in securing moisture by capillary attraction from below, when we cannot get it from above, and thus continuing the growth and preserving the green color of the plant, when otherwise it would be checked in its growth and turn yellow. If a shower- should chance to fall too, under such circumstances, its benefits would be much more lasting. We think we cannot recommend too highly the subsoil plow as a meliorating agent. One constructed by a good smith would answer all the purposes of the cast iron one, and would cost but a dollar or two instead of from S7 to $9, which is the cost of the latter in Mobile. A bar of iron properly curved and flattened at the point alter the fashion of the coulter will answer all purposes. Wm. Cunningham, John Gaillard, | r, MARk McMillan, Committee. Murdock McCoRvy,J Talbot County j^gricultural Society. The Talbot County Agricultural Society met according to adjournment, it being the Anniver- sary of the Society; the President, Jesse Car- ter, being in the Chair. On motion, the Committees on the various subjects, previously assigned, were called upon to report, and those not prepared with written repoits were instructed to make verbal ones. The Committee on Grains made a short ver- bal report. The Committee on Roots and Gar- den Vegetables reported, and their report was received. 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