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THE GRASS FAMILY. 
 
THE GRASS FAiVllLY 
 
 -m-= 
 
 AN ADDRESS DELIVERED BEFORE THE AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY 
 
 OF CATTARAUGUS COUNTY, AT THEIR ANNUAL FAIR 
 
 AT RANDOLPH, N. Y'., SEPTEMBER U, 1877. 
 
 / 
 
 BY 
 
 PROF. J. T.' EDWARDS, D. D. 
 
 # 
 X 
 
 
 1^77'BLIS If-ET) Sr THB SOCIBTT. 
 
 RANDOLPH. N. Y. 
 
 F. J.& D. D. Lockwooil, Printers, 
 
 Weekly Register. 
 
 1877. 
 
Ei: 
 
 it.T.- 
 
 il necording 
 
 to Act of 
 
 C'cnoress. 
 
 In the 
 
 year 
 
 18; 
 
 '7. 
 
 by 
 
 
 
 JAMES T. 
 
 E D W A B D S , 
 
 
 
 
 
 In 
 
 the 
 
 Office of the 
 
 Librarian 
 
 of Cono-ress, 
 
 , at AVasliingi 
 
 ton, 
 
 D. 
 
 C. 
 
 i 
 
 
 ^ 
 
I ^ 
 
 THE GRASS FAMILY. 
 
 Mil. President, Gentlemen of the Society, Ladies and Gen- 
 tlemen: 
 
 Bountiful crops li;ive again rewarded the labor of the hus1)andnian. 
 We have never had more abundant harvests. In our own immediate 
 vicinity, all these lovely tlelds and meadows have yielded tlieir richest 
 increase. The fragrant clover, the sweet-scented vernal-grass, the 
 purple-spiked timothy, the rosy-tipped red top, the graceful panicles 
 of oats, the wheat, barley, corn and millet, have clothed the earth 
 with verdure and filled the air with sweetest odors; while, in spite of 
 bugs and grubs, tiie ground is fairly bursting with goodly tubers, 
 aud every hedge and '"good-for-nothing place" has blessed the boys 
 and girls with berries by the bushel. 
 
 Our orchards are bending with luscious fruit, and our gardens have 
 long i)aid tribute to the well-spread table. It is delightful to gather 
 here to-day and celebrate these peaceful triumjiiis of industry; not 
 forgetting Iliin '•whose goodness crowns the circling vear." 
 
2. 
 
 In beautiful and appropriate words, Wliittier has sung of these har- 
 vest days. The notes of his lyre are always sweetest when wakened 
 by his sympathy with human trials and successes: 
 
 The Persian's flowery gifts, the shrine 
 Of fruitful Ceres, charm no more; 
 Tlie woven wreath of oak and pine 
 Are dust along the Isthmian shore. 
 
 But beauty hath its homage still. 
 And Nature holds us still in debt; 
 And woman's grace and household skill. 
 And manhood's toil are honored yet. 
 
 O, favors, every year made new ! 
 O, gifts, with rain and sunshine sent! 
 The bounty overruns our due — 
 The fullness shames our discontent. 
 
 We shut our eyes, the floAvers bloom on; 
 We murmur, but the corn-eai-s fill; 
 We choose the shadow, but tlie sun 
 That casts it, shines behind us still. 
 
 And we, to-daj% amidst our flowei's 
 And fruits, have come to own again 
 Tlie blessings of the summer hours, 
 The early and the latter rain; 
 
 To see our Father's hand once more 
 
 Eeverse for us the plenteous liorn 
 
 Of autumn, tilled and running o'er 
 
 With fruits, and flowers, and golden corn ! 
 
 Once more the liberal year laughs out 
 
 O'er richer stores than gems or gold; ' 
 
 Once more, with harvest song and shout, 
 
 Is Nature's bloodless triumph told. 
 
 There is a peculiar fitness and value in these September celebra- 
 tions, now common to the whole country, wliere the first and most 
 important occupation of man seeks the true and beneficent results of 
 
 CO-OPERATIVE EFFORT. 
 
 No other assemblies surpass in interest and importance the annual 
 Fairs of our Agricultural Societies. From their rise there dates a 
 new era in human improvement. 
 
 One hundred years ago there was not a society of this kind on the 
 continent; now two thousand are enumerated. The Pliiladelphia 
 "Society for the Improvement of Agriculture" was established in 
 1784, being the first in this country. South Carolina founded one the 
 same year, and that was next followed, in 1791, by a similar associa- 
 tion in New York, wliich still exists. Statesmanship now deems it wise 
 economy to publish, by State enactment, tlie proceedings of most of 
 our State societies; and many county and district fairs contribute 
 largely to our stock of useful information, and excite a wholesome 
 rivalry among the farmers of the region in which they are lield. 
 
This union of liantls and heads has created a complete revolution 
 in the art of farming. From the mental activity thus fostered, have 
 sprung numerous inventions to mitigate the labors of man, and give 
 him more complete dominion over the soil. 
 
 In his Political Economy, published about forty years ago, and 
 which is still used in our colleges, Dr. Wayland says; "Agriculture 
 is the only industry which, thus far, has failed to profit to anj"^ extent 
 from invention or labor-saving machinery." If the work were revised 
 how would tliat passage now read ? When, for instance, a California 
 farmer tells us tluit from his own farm forty thousand bushels of 
 grain were harvested, thrashed, cleaned and stored in granaries in 
 thirty-six days, by twenty-two men. 
 
 The farmer in this country does not stand alone, but belongs to 
 a co-operative fraternity of more than six millions of men. This 
 comprises about one-half of the persons engaged in all classes of oc- 
 cupations. 
 
 In 1870 there were two million six hundred and sixty thousand 
 
 farms in the United States. It has been well said, that if the labors 
 of the farmer should cease for a single year, the human race would 
 perish, while the hum of all other industries might be hushed, 
 and humanity still survive. 
 
 Thus we call the roll of this noble army of toilers, that j^ou may 
 gather courage from your numbers, especially when you remember 
 that there is now, as never before, for the advancement of your pro- 
 fession throughout the land, a grand iniion of 
 
 THOUGHT AND TOIL. 
 
 That was a great step forward when men began to think of new 
 and better Avaj's, instead of blindly stumbling forward in the old 
 rough ones. Think of our insisting on that long-observed custom, 
 that a man should not hold a plow until he could make one! The far- 
 mer has ceased to be a machine; lie reads, observes, compares and 
 reasons. 
 
 In 1870 there were ninety-three agricultural and horticultural pa- 
 pers and periodicals, with an aggregate annual issue of twenty-one 
 million five hundred thousand copies. In short, the farmer now does 
 wliat the artist does, "mixes brains" with what he digs. Thought has 
 sifted the soils, introduced the crucible and scales, weiglied the ele- 
 ments of earth, air, plant and animal, studied their adaptations, sug- 
 gested the rotation of crops and tlie introduction of feltilizers. A 
 hundred years ago. Lord Karnes thu-5 describes farming in Scotland. 
 He says: "Our draught horses are miserable creatures, without 
 strengtb or mettle; our oxen scarcely able to support tlieir weight, 
 and two going in a plow, led on b}' two horses; the ridges in the fields 
 higli and broad, in fact enormous masses of accumulated earth tliat 
 could not admit of cross plowing or cultivation; shallow plowing uni- 
 versal; ribbing, by which half the land was left untilled, a general 
 
4. 
 
 practice over the gi'eater part of Scotland; a continnal struofgie be- 
 tween corn and weeds for supremacy; the roller almost unknown; no 
 harrowing before sowing, and the seed sown into rough and uneven 
 ground where half of it was buried; no branch of husbandrj^ less 
 understood than manure; potatoes generallj^ planted in lazy beds; 
 swine but little attended to; and very few farms in Scotland pro- 
 portioned to the skill and ability of the tenant." A sad picture, but 
 often witnessed in those early times, when half the stock would per- 
 ish in the winter, and the wretched peasantrj- eked out a miserable 
 existence. But the Scotchmen began to think and study better meth- 
 ods, and mark the results; their rugged soil "buds and blossoms like 
 the rose.'* The late lamented John Stanton Gould says, that on the 
 beautiful meadows of Edinburg, they have produced in one year, in 
 six consecutive cuttings, twenty tons of excellent hay from a singU; 
 acre. This would seem to indicate the possibility of 
 
 PERENNIAL FERTILITY. 
 
 Since Chemistry has ascertained what vegetation demands for its 
 growth, and points out the sources for supply, it only remains for 
 man to furnish himself with these fertilizers, and prolong indefinitely 
 the richness of the soil. 
 
 Is it not surprising that more progress has been made in the physi- 
 ological and chemical knowledge pertaining to this subject, during 
 the last thirty years, than in all time before? Doubtless there is yet 
 great waste. Victor Hugo declared some years ago, that the man 
 who would invent some method of saving the refuse of our cities, 
 which now largely flows into the sea, would be a benefactor of our 
 race. That problem will sometime be solved. In the meantime \vc 
 have learnecTthis much, that the fertility of land need not be exhaust- 
 ed; for England now supplies a population of twenty millions, from 
 the same soil, that, at the beginning of tlie century scantily sustained 
 seven millions; and our oldest states are now more productive than 
 they were fifty years ago. 
 
 I have alluded to these more general topics by way of showing 
 how vast are the interests committed to the hands of the husbandman, 
 and what benetits arise from an intelligent and studious consideration 
 of the best means for cultivating the soil. The study of agriculture 
 is indeed 
 
 THE GREATEST OF THE SCIENCES, 
 
 for it includes :ill the natural sciences and some other l)ranches be- 
 sides. Prof. Samuel T. Johnson has remarked: "It includes some- 
 thing from nearly every department of human learning. The nat- 
 ural sciences, geology, meteorology, mechanics, physics, chemistiy, 
 botany, zoology and physiology are most intimately related to it. 
 
 It is not less concerned with social and political economy, than 
 with commerce and law." 
 
Nowhere are the results of scicutilic study and carelul culture 
 more evident and interestino; than in the present cultivation of tliat 
 most imjiortant branch of the vejjetable kingdom called 
 
 THE GRASSES. 
 
 We wonder liow people lived in the early times when we learn, 
 that, prior to the landing of the Pilgrims, our Englisli ancestors had 
 no potatoes, corn, turnips, squashes, carrots nor cabbages; and are 
 still more surprised to find that, up to that date, there had been no 
 sowing of grass seed, nor artificial proi)agation of what are termed 
 "forage plants." For ages, on the fertile meadows, nature had been 
 scattering, with prodigal hand, the seeds of the grasses, and the hills 
 and valleys of England were covered with a soft, thick natural 
 vei'dure. In this country it was different. Our hardy ancestors found 
 no velvety greensward; if the}' possessed it, it must be through culti- 
 vation; hence, grasses were sown in the new world before tliey were 
 in the old. 
 
 King George's soldiers returned, after the close of theEevolution, 
 bearing in their hands the seeds of the timothy, and in their heads 
 the inetho Is of improved grass-culture which they liad here observed. 
 It were a question whether tliis alone lias not, in the aggregate, paid 
 England full price for her lost colonies. War is a great disseminator 
 of seeds as well as principles. The defeated crusaders came back 
 from Constantinople bearing with them, from the East, the germs of 
 knowledge and art, wliich, implanted in Europe, sprang up to adorn 
 it with tlie products of a higher civilization. 
 
 DISTRIBUTION OF THE GRASSES. 
 
 I suppose the United States Census Report is not usually regard- 
 ed as very entertaining literature; but I have been greatly interested 
 in the statements of that seldom-read and much-abused document. 
 Its figures are more eloquent than a poem. Xo Cattaraugus man can 
 read, without delight, tliat his own county now produces annually, 
 four million pounds of butter and cheese, and that on her grassy slopes 
 grow two hundred thousand tons of hay. If not literally flowing 
 with milk and honey, tliere were sold of the former, in 1870, seven 
 million five liundred and fifty-eight thousand nine hundred and sev- 
 enty-eight gallons, and of the latter eleven thousand six liundred and 
 sixty-eight lbs. 
 
 Among the most valuable features of the report is the collec- 
 tion of 
 
 CROi' MAPS, 
 
 which, by a system of shading, show at a glance tlie relative jiroduc- 
 tion of different parts of the country. These maps reveal the sources 
 of our wealth and the adaptation of our soil to a particular crop, as 
 compared with that of other localities. For example; take the yel- 
 low map, representing the dairying sections of the United States. 
 
6. 
 
 Four shades of color are given, the deepest tint niarkhig those regions 
 where the dairy products are over fortj^ dollars per-capita. You will 
 be interested to know what sections are covered by this golden lustre. 
 They are all in New York, with the exception of a few square miles 
 in California, half a county in Ohio, and the same amount of territory 
 in Vermont: The favored spots in this State are Orange County; a 
 stretch of land through the centre, extending from the junction of 
 the Pennsylvania line with the Susquehanna River, to the Thousand 
 Islands, thence down the St. Lawrence to the Canada line, thence 
 back to the place of starting, embracing half a dozen counties; and 
 lastly, Cattaraugus and Chautauqua counties, comprising in all, per- 
 haps, one-fifth of the State; a pleasant showing, yet how inferior to 
 that in the good time coming, when each acre of the now uncultivat- 
 ed thousands in the valley of tlie Conewango, shall yield, as I have 
 no doubt it will, five tons of waving timotliy and cock's-foot, present- 
 ing a picture more beautiful than the Northampton meadows or the 
 green fields of the Mohawk. Passing the tobacco map, which, I am 
 happy to say, shows this corner of the State in virgin wiiite, we next 
 glance at the 
 
 HAT MAP. 
 
 This appears in five shades of crimson, spread upon the white 
 page. The deepest color is scarce again. There is a little of it in 
 Maine, one small spot in Vermont, three or four counties in the cen-» 
 tre of New York, the whole of Cattaraugus count}', and about one- 
 third of Alleghany, Erie and Chautauqua counties; then no more un- 
 til we reach the magnificent grass-lands of Minnesota, Iowa, Nebras- 
 ka and Kansas, although it is by no means continuous there. 
 
 THE COUN CROP MAP 
 
 does not give New York an acre, even in the faintest shade; and 5'et 
 corn, a true grass, as we shall see hereafter, grows well here, often 
 yielding fifty or sixty bushels to the acre. 
 
 THE WHEAT CROP MAP 
 
 leaves this corner of the State in pure white; a little strip in tlie val- 
 ley of the Genesee rises to the dignity of second grade, but there are 
 two grades above it, the highest being found in California alone. 
 
 A careful examination of these four members of the gi-eat family 
 named, reveals the fact that the Mississippi Valley, Avlth its miglity 
 tributaries, is destined to yield the corn and wheat for this, and per- 
 haps other lands, when a teeming population of many millions shall 
 throng these shores, as did once the mighty multitudes along the Nile, 
 the Tigris and the Euphrates. Population has ever sought fertility of 
 soil, and there is a very close relation between the crop returns and 
 the census of population. It has been recently shown that there is 
 also a close connection between crops and crime. 
 
7. 
 
 We learn from these maps that we, iii this section, are not to de- 
 pend upon corn and wlieat, but upon those humbler, but not less use- 
 ful members of this familj-, commonly called the forage plants. These 
 constitute the bountiful source of our prosperitj^, of well-filled barns 
 and overflowing milk pails; not "the green herb for the use of man," 
 but the grass grown for cattle. 
 
 As there is fre(£uent occasion to mention the term family, it be- 
 comes necessary to inquire what, in a botanical sense, is 
 
 A FAMILY. 
 
 It is not what is understood Avhen we speak of families among 
 men, for then we refer to the group of persons living in the same do- 
 mestic circle, or possibly a collection of individuals closely connected 
 by tlie ties of blood. The term family is the name for a very wide 
 class of plants, which embraces many genera, and each of these in 
 turn, many species. What, then, is a species? A species is a collec- 
 tion of individuals wliich have a common parentage, and also possess 
 certain essential char4cteristics in common. 
 
 We do not propose to enter into a learned discussion in regard to 
 tlie origin of species, but so far as we kjioiv. one species does not be- 
 come another; Important changes may take place, thus forming 
 strongly marked gioups, and tliese we call varieties. Thus we ob- 
 tain variecies of the species horse, or varieties of apples and pota- 
 toes. One man raised 6,000 varieties of potatoes. Individuals with 
 a comujon parentage, then, form a species; of these thousands of 
 species some look alike, liave similar habits, and other points of re- 
 semblance; those having these correspondences form a genera; — again 
 of these thousands of plant genera, you may find some which have 
 features alike as to flower, fruit and mode of groAvth. These are 
 grouped into a large class called a family. Individuals form species, 
 species form genera, genera form families. This is equally true of 
 both sub-kingdoms of the organized world. Perhaps it can be most 
 reatllly seen among animals. For example: there is thecal family, 
 embracing the lion, tiger, leopard, panllier, wild-cat, and some others. 
 Place them together, and no one will fail to see that they i-esemble 
 each other. Tiie dog family, including the hyena, jackal, fox, wolf 
 and dog. have so striking a resemblance to each other that many have 
 supposed that they are of common parentage, which is not the fact. 
 But while ditterent species may produce monstrosities, monstrosities 
 do not perpetuate llu'insilves. 
 
 We shall now sie wuat is meant by the 
 
 GRASS FAMILY. 
 
 This is a great collection of plants called the Gramlueae, which, 
 according to Wood, includes 300 genera, and 3,800 species, or about 
 one-sixth of all the plants in the world. What then is a grass? It is 
 a plaut with a hollow stem, having joints that make a horizontal par- 
 
.9. 
 
 tition iicross the stem, willi leuv<^'^ wliicli form an open sheath ])art 
 way up the stem, terminating usually in a slender blade, and general- 
 ly, at the point of junction of the blade and sheath, has a small ap- 
 pendage called a ligule. 
 
 The grass is further distinguished by its growth, flower and fruit. 
 The stem or culm terminates in a flower-stalk, which is usually a 
 spike, racime or panicle, terms which a little investigation will make 
 clear. The flowers are very small, and you will look in vain for the 
 showy petals and sepals which adorn our roses, pinks and lilies; in 
 place of these, enclosing the essential organs, the stamens and pistils, 
 there are scaly leaves called palea and glumes, other names for what 
 the miller calls chaff. The seed-vessel is simple, with one ascending 
 ovule or seed, which divides into two styles, and these terminate in two 
 feathery stigmas. When the ovule ripens it forms a grain called 
 caryopsis. The leaves have veins running lengthwise, and grow on 
 opposite sides of the stem, one above another. 
 
 The grasses are often confounded with the sedges, a numerous 
 family, embracing 2.000 species, but the latter have a solid stem 
 and closed sheath. The clovers do not belong to this family, but 
 are often called the "artiflcial grasses." They have, however, a 
 different leaf, flower and fruit. 
 
 It is a singular testimony to the value of the grasses, that there 
 is but one species in all this vast collection that possesses poisonous, 
 properties, and that is the bearded darnel {Solium temulentum), a 
 rare plant, sometimes found in grain flelds. 
 
 This noble family stands as the connecting link between the 
 mineral and animal world, transforming, with unei ring skill, the in- 
 nutritious elements of the former, into food for the latter. 
 
 "All flesh is grass," says the inspired penman; and "all flesh is 
 grass," repeats the man of science. 
 
 The poison ivy, the sumac, the nightshade, the laurel, and hun- 
 dreds of other plants, may distil from the same soil their noxious 
 juices, but this faithful ally of the human family, with unvarying 
 certainty, stores up its nourishment for man and beast. It has a 
 marvelous power of adaptation to different situations and climates. 
 Some of its representatives, found on the coast of Greenland, are 
 scarcely longer than the hairs upon a squiri-el's back, while in the 
 tropics others rise to the height of lofty trees. I have, myself, seen 
 corn grow fifteen feet in height. So that Dean Swift, in his masterly 
 satire, was not so far from the truth, when, speaking of the land of 
 giants, he said: "That which surprised me most was the height of 
 the grass, which, in those groumls, was about twenty feet." 
 
 An American poet has written a graceful lyric, in tiic refrain of 
 which he makes the grasses say: "I come creeping, creeping every- 
 where;" and surely there is scarcely a spot where they are not found. 
 Dr. Kane, in his Arctic travels, gathered their stunted stems, and, 
 
n. 
 
 alas! mouruecl their loss when the rats broke hito his collection and 
 ate them; bnt he consoled himself with the reflection— a comforting 
 one, for the crew had the scnrvy— that they might catch the rats the 
 fatter for the meal. 
 
 They carpet the meadows, climb the hillsides, fringe the brooks, 
 and even in the deep, shady nooks, lift toward the giant trees their 
 slender, graceful heads. The snows of the mountains have hardl)"^ 
 melted before the valleys smile with their verdure, and the rugged 
 rocks are robbed of their harshness by the twining grasses in their 
 clefts. Even the shifting sands of the ocean beach are held in place 
 by tlieir long and fibrous root-stalks. Nature has provided that their 
 seeds should be almost indestructible. They have lain in the ground 
 for hundreds of yen rs, and under favorable ciroumstances have ger- 
 minated; tliey have been found in the ancient tombs of Egyptian 
 kings, and with sunlight and moisture have sprung again to life. 
 This cliaractei'istic renders them invaluable to man, as thej' may be 
 stored for a great length of time in granaries. 
 
 Thousands of the Granmineae are comparatively unknown, and a 
 select few only can be here considered. These are the more aristo- 
 cratic nuiiibers of the familj', although some of tliem are of humble 
 origin. Dr. Holmes has renjarked, that it is not wise for us to be 
 too particular in looking uj) our genealogical line, for we may find it 
 wnxed at the other end, or terminating in a slip-noose. But if any 
 of these noble scions of the grass familj' are reproached with their 
 lowly pedigree, I can imagine them replying, in the language of 
 Cicero, to a young sprig of the Roman nobilit}', who reproaclied him 
 with his humble birth: "The difference between you and me, is this: 
 the greatness of your family ends with you; the greatness of mine 
 begins with me!"' 
 
 We propose to speak briefly of about a score of species. If any 
 aie disposed to pursue this interesting study still further, thej' will 
 find rich uiaterial in tlie exhaustless treasure.- of Prof. Gray's bota- 
 ny, and in the admirable treatises on Grasses by Flint and others. In 
 18G9, John Stanton Gould wrote a very learned lecture on this sub- 
 ject, which was printed in the Agricultural Keport of the State So- 
 ciety of that year; and I have been shown, by the accomplished Sec- 
 retary, Mr. Harrison, a work in manuscript upon the artificial grasses, 
 by the same autlior. Both these treatises would be a perfect treasure 
 to the farmer, if publisiied for general distribution. Agriculturalists 
 long felt a contempt for the theorizings of book-farming. One of 
 these theorizers has been thus sarcastically described as "spending 
 eight y<'ars upon a project for extracting sunbeams out of cucum- 
 bers, which were to be put into vials, hermetically sealed, an d let 
 out to warm the air in raw, inclement weather."' After all, the 
 dreamer was not so far out of the way, for what are cucumbers but 
 condensed sunshine ? 
 
70. 
 
 We have learned to respeet these Investigators, and that a spirit 
 of observation and research is a fruitful source of agricultural pro- 
 gress. There is a saying which has been so often misquoted, that I 
 venture to give it literally. It occurs in Gulliver's Travels. The 
 King of Brobdingnagsays: ''Whoever could make two ears of corn or 
 two blades of grass grow upon a spot of ground where only one grew 
 before, would deserve better of mankind, and do more essential ser- 
 vice to his country, than the whole race of politicians put together." 
 A computation has been made of the financial results of making the 
 two blades of grass grow where there was but one. As the annual 
 hay crop of this country is estimated to be worth $400,000,000, the in- 
 crease to our revenues thereby would be, in three years, over a thou- 
 sand million dollars; and there are those who claim that it is possible, 
 in a short time, to accomplish this work. If this be so, surely a care- 
 ful and scientific study of the grasses promises the richest results. 
 
 Hehu's Grass, Timothy, Cats-tail Grass. 
 
 {Phleum pratense.) 
 
 The last of these names was given to this grass on account of the 
 supposed resemblance to the caudal appendage of tlie cat. The first 
 was derived from the name of a man, who found it growing in Pisca- 
 taqua, N. H., in the early part of the last century, and began to 
 cultivate it. Afterwards it received the name of Timothy, from 
 Timothy Hanson, who cultivated it extensively in North Carolina, 
 and recommended it to the people of Great Britain. Some authors 
 state that it was introduced into England, from Virginia, by Peter 
 Wynclie, in 17G1. It is generally regarded as the most valuable of 
 our grasses raised for hay, and is used extensively in Britain, Lap- 
 land, Sweden, -Norway, the United States and Canada. According 
 to chemical analysis, it is the most nutritious of our grasses if cut at 
 the right time, and commands the highest price in market. The 
 proper time for cutting has long been a question of discussion, but 
 our best authorities now agree that it is when it is about half blown. 
 If the stalk is examined at this time, a yellow spot will be found 
 above the first joint. At this stage, the nourishing matter is in the 
 leaves and stem, but sliould it be permitted to go beyond this, much 
 of it will puss to the seeds, and when dead ripe most of the seeds will 
 fall in handling the hay, and there will thus be left for the cattle noth- 
 ing but the dry and tasteless stalks. Any farmer, with the slightest 
 observation, must have noted the difference in the appearance of his 
 cattle when wintered upon the one kind or the other. There is a very 
 important reason why it should not be cut before this period. Nature 
 has a wonderful way of storing up nourishment in the seed or root 
 of the old plant for the use of the new. This is seen in many of the 
 bulbs and seeds used by man for food. Tlie same arrangement is 
 found in timothy. About the time of fiowering, a bulb is formed, 
 
//. 
 
 just beneath the ground, (though one kind of timothy has fibrous 
 roots), and in it is paclied away, through the elaboration of the leaves 
 and stem, a large amount of nutriment upon which, when the grass 
 sprouts again, it feeds. Again, it has been found essential not to cut 
 below the lowest joint. There is i*eason to believe that most of our 
 mowing machines are set too low. Timothy is not a good grass for 
 pasture, for reasons that have been intimated. The rowen grows 
 slowly, and when horses and sheep feed upon the pasture, being verj-^ 
 fond of the bulbs, they nip them or pull them up, and thus "kill the 
 hen that lays the golden eo;g.'''' The greatest yield of timothy up- 
 on a single acre in this country was six tons. The tallest stalk was 
 raised by Charles Collins, Montgomery. Pa., and measured seven feet 
 and eight inches. The longest spike on record was eleven inches. 
 The average crop, throughout the United States, is one and one- 
 quarter tons to the acre. When in full bloom, its purple blossoms 
 trembling at the zephyr's touch, and the tall stem swayed by each 
 passing breeze, it presents a very beautiful appearance. 
 
 Meadow Fox-tail. 
 
 {Alopecurus Pratensis. ) 
 
 This is a grass which closely resembles timothj'', and is often 
 mistaken for it. It is not abundant here, but may be occasionally 
 found. This plant flowers the first of June, and may be known on 
 tliis account. It can be further distinguished from the fact that the 
 head of timothy is longer, and is rongh to the touch, while this is 
 smooth. This is one of the earliest and best pasture grasses known. 
 Cattle are extremely fond of it, and it bears cropping admirably; but 
 if cut for hay the loss from drying is very great. It is the principal 
 grass in most of the rich natural pastures of Great Britain. 
 
 Mr. Way, who made a careful chemical analysis of many grasses, 
 shows that on account of the loss in curing, when this is worth four 
 dollars and fourteen cents per ton, timothy would be worth ten dol- 
 lars. Yet all agree that as a pasture grass it has no superior. It is 
 early, sweet, and renews itself very rapidly. 
 
 There is another Fox-tail, sometimes called Bottle-grass and Corn- 
 grass, of quite a different character. It is foinid in corn fields, barn 
 yards and potato patches, and is usually voted a nuisance, although, 
 if we should ask the birds, they might give a very different verdict, as 
 they seem fond of the numerous seeds which crown its summit. 
 
 Ked-top, Fine-top, Bukdin's Grass, (Herd's Grass in Pennsyl- 
 vania and the South,) Rhode Island, Bent. 
 {Agrostis Vulgaris.) 
 This nuist have been common among the Greeks, for the name 
 Agrostis signifies field. If you should go to a dealer and inquire for 
 either of the above named grasses, he would probably tell you that 
 
72. 
 
 he kept them all. But he would furubh their seed from the same 
 barrel; they are really one. It is a grass that exhibits itself umler 
 quite different aspects in var3Mno; situations. Sometimes the panicles 
 are veiy slight and graceful, at others, strong and tall, but almost al- 
 ways distinguishable, from the brownish red of its blossoms. It is 
 a good pasture grass, though the cattle give it a second or tliird place 
 in their choice. 
 
 Orchakd Grass, Rough Cock's-foot. 
 
 {Dactylis Glomerata.) 
 
 I have been greatly interested in studying this grass, and I am 
 satisfied that it could be more extensively sown in this region, with 
 great advantage. It grows luxuriantly, and matures by the middle 
 of June. Its aftermath developes so rapidly, that in many cases it 
 would be eas}'' to secure a large second crop. No grass suffers less 
 from cropping, or grows more rapidly afterwards. One farmer says 
 if his cattle went to bed witliout supper, tliey could have a good bite 
 for breakfast. Some time ago, a collection of grasses was presented 
 to a jury of cows, and they expressed a decided preference for or- 
 chard grass. The roots are fibrous, and consequently not easily in- 
 jured. "As it ripens about tlie same time as clover, if sown together, 
 they could both be cut at tlie most appropriate season, which cannot 
 be the case when clover and timothy are sown, for they ripen at dif- 
 ferent times. I saw a piece this summer, sown on a lawn. A worse 
 mistake could hardly have been made, for its mode of gi-owth unfits 
 it for tliat purpose; but it gave a most magnificent yield of three tons 
 to the acre. I am satisfied that the farmers of Cattaraugus County 
 should give this grass a trial, especially wliere they are sowing for 
 permanent pasture. 
 
 June Grass, Kentucky Blue Grass. 
 
 iPoa Pratensis.) 
 
 This plant, which is very common in our own fields, forms the 
 prevailing forage of Kentucky. It maj' be known from its early blos- 
 soming, and from a woolly web at the base of its flowers. The fa- 
 mous pastures of Kentucky will fatten cattle faster than any other in 
 the world. "Where do you get 3'our best cattle ?" said 1 to an exten- 
 sive dealer in New York. "Tiie corn-feJ cattle of Illinois," he re- 
 plied, "'are best. Kentucky cattle i-ank second. Texas cattle are the 
 poorest meat of all." 
 
 Blue gf ass gives the green tinge to the mountains of Vermont, 
 which may appear a little paradoxical. Though blossoming so early, 
 it sends out a luxuriant growth of radical or root leaves, which make 
 capital after-feed, often remaining green all winter. la Kentucky, 
 the horses and sheep paw the snow awa}' and eat it. It seems to bear 
 exti-eme cold better than any grass known. It is often found three 
 thousand feet above the level of the sea. 
 
78. 
 
 It seems to bo titted for a pioneer, and it is said that havinj^ once 
 fastened itself upon the prairies of the west, it will sometimes displace 
 all other grasses. Graceful and fairy-like in its movements, and asso- 
 ciated with our remembrances of the first sweet green of Spring, we 
 look upon it as an old friend, and herald its coming witli gladness. 
 
 SWKET-SCENTED VERNAL-GRASS. 
 
 {Antlioxanthum Odoraium. ) 
 
 Englishmen often speak of the fact that their hay is sweeter than 
 ours; if so, it is largely due to the presence of this grass, as it is found 
 abundantly in old meadows. 
 
 Tliere are not many of the grasses which emit agreeable odors, 
 but this is perhaps most marked of all. Shakespeare makes Richard 
 the Third exclaim, as he cools his fevered brow by walking in the 
 lields on the night preceding the battle which cost him a crown : — "IIow 
 sweet the fragi-ance of the new-mown hay." From its flowers there 
 protrude little sharp appendages called awns, which are strangely 
 sensitive to the changes of the atmosphere. They are pretty good 
 hydrometers on a small scale. If placed on the table they will con- 
 tract and expand in a very peculiar manner, as if they were living 
 beings and in a nervous state of health. The aAvns of wild oats have 
 the same peculiarity. This grass is not very valuable, but those who 
 find poetry in the hay field, and enjoy the sweet scent of the Avell- 
 filled mow, will be loth to part with it. 
 
 Annual Spear Grass. 
 
 {Foci Armua.) 
 
 Mr. Flint thinks this is the most common of all our grasses. It 
 looks very much like June Grass, but may be distinguished from it 
 by not having the fuzz below its flowers, and by having sword-shaped 
 leaves, crumpled at the ends. It flowers throughout the summer. 
 
 I have now mentioned seven of our most common and valuable 
 grasses. They probably comprise nine-tenths of all the growth of 
 our meadows and pastures. A few others are pai-ticularly interesting 
 for their ])eculiarities of structure, or the curious purposes which 
 they serve. 
 
 Black Grass. 
 
 (Jiuiciis Bulbostis.) 
 
 Along our Atlantic sea-board it Is exceedingly difficult to raise 
 good grass for cattle. The meadow lands are low and salt, being 
 often covered by the waters of the bays, and on them are found sed- 
 ges in abundance. Salt hay, so called, is also found there in great 
 quantities, but these are not very nutritious; still they are cut in vast 
 quantities, and sometimes shipped to the city markets. I have often 
 seen men loading scows with this liay, putting on board, perhaps, 
 ten or twenty tons, then sailing away thirty or forty miles distant, 
 
tlie whole looking like a huge hay stack with white wings. There is 
 one important exception to the inferiority of these sea-shore gi'asses, 
 and that is the black grass. Just along the line where the salt mead- 
 ows and the uplands meet, it grows from ten to twenty inches high, 
 crowned at the top with a bunch of heavy and nutritious seeds. When 
 combined with the goose-grass, (so called because the Canada goose 
 likes to feed upon it), if well cured, it makes a hay equal to timothy. 
 
 Beach Grass, Mat Grass. 
 
 ( Calamagrofitis Arenaria. ) 
 
 This has been called the most advanced sentinel of the vegetable 
 kingdom. It is found on the sandy coasts which form the barriers of 
 the sea. Many a time, when a boy, going to bathe in the surf, I have 
 pricked my feet with its thorny chaff, and wondered what that grass 
 was made for, little dreaming then, that this despised and ugly-look- 
 ing member of the vegetable world often accomplishes tasks wliich 
 defy the skill and appliances of the best engineers. It has been found 
 to be one of the surest protections for our sandy coasts. The harbor 
 of Provincetown, on Cape Cod, one of the best in tiie world, owes 
 its preservation to it. In England there exists to this day a statute 
 against pulling it up or destroying it. Along the sea-board the winds 
 sometimes blow with such force that they would sweep away the 
 light, sandy soil, and often fill the bays and inlets if there were not 
 this protection. I have seen windows in the houses on the beach, hav- 
 ing the exact appearance of ground glass, made so by the sand that 
 had been blown upon them. Beach grass comes to the rescue. It 
 grows with long, reclining subterranean stems, sometimes forty feet 
 in length, from which the blades shoot up, making a net-work over 
 and through the sand. If the sand is blown upon it and the grass is 
 buried, it continues to thrive, and, indeed, seems to be improved by 
 this hard usage. 
 
 Common Crab-Grass, Finger Grass. 
 
 {Fanicum Sanguinale.) 
 
 Before passing to that branch of the grass family which furnish- 
 es food to the human race, we pay a passing tribute to a i-epresenta- 
 tive of that despised tribe of the gramineae called weeds. A weed has 
 been defined as "a plant, growing where it is not wanted." This one 
 said to get its nume, Sanguinale, bloody, from the practice of boys in 
 Germany pricking each others' noses with its sharp spikes until they 
 bleed. Some of us remember how industriously we have labored to 
 eradicate it, and were surprised to find, if it had rained shortly after, 
 that we had planted a score of weeds where there was but one be- 
 fore. However, it has its merits, for its five-fingered infloresence 
 gives it a curious appearance, and its seeds are greatly relished by the 
 birds. Pei'haps this feeding of birds is not rcgai-ded as an essential 
 
/J. 
 
 part of farming; but a greater heresy than that has never cursed the 
 profession. If j'^ou would preserve your grasses from the bugs, 
 worms, caterpillars and grasshoppers, welcome the birds to your 
 homes. Plant trees for them, build boxes for tlieir nests, and don't 
 begrudge tliem a few berries and clierries. 
 
 ElCE. 
 
 ( Oryza Saliva. ) 
 
 This furnishes the bread for half the world. The Chinese tell us 
 tlicy used it two thousand eight hundred years before the birth of 
 Christ. The modes of planting are various, though it flourishes best 
 on land tliat can be flooded. The beautiful saying of our Saviour, 
 "Cast thy bread upon the waters, and thou shalt find it after many 
 days," had reference to tlie sowing of tlie rice upon the river Nile, 
 when it liad overflowed its baulvs. There are many kinds of rice, one 
 hundred and sixty-one varieties being found in the Island of Ceylon 
 alone. The favorite variety, called "long grain," is said to have 
 been obtained by a man who noticed some very large grains in his 
 harvest, and planted tliem. Another illustration of the doctrine of 
 selection. A New York man, by the name of Calvin Emmons, in- 
 vented the machine for cleaning rice, now used in the Southern 
 States. Is it not curious that the value of the two great products of 
 tlie South has been so much enhanced tlirough the inventions of 
 two men from the North, Emmons, and Eli Wliitney, who invented 
 the cotton gin ? Our census reveals a curious fact in reference to the 
 rice culture, showing that there is now raised in tliis country but 
 about one-tliird as much as was produced twentj^ years ago. 
 
 Corn. 
 
 ( Zea Mays. ) 
 
 Tliis is eaten by more persons than any other grain, except rice. 
 Its cliemical composition is found to be admirably adapted to the 
 wants of the liuman family. The varieties are exceedingly numer- 
 ous, there probably being a hundred in this country alone. Tliey 
 range from the little Brazilian variety, the grain of wiiich is not lar- 
 ger than a mustard seed, and tlie ear the size of your little finger, to 
 tl»e stately soutiiern corn, from twelve to twenty feet in height. We 
 can see, by observing the corn, liow the seeds of plants are produced. 
 When it is in blossom, if we shake the stem fine dust from the stamens 
 on top will fill the air, and if tliis falls upon the little pistils, common- 
 ly called the silk of the ear, it will fertilize, at the inner end, the ovule, 
 and form the grain of corn. This is essentially the process of fertil- 
 ization in all flowering ])lants. It explains what we wondered at 
 when we were boys: why the pop-corn, which we planted with such 
 bright anticipations, proved, in the autumn, to be something else, that 
 "wouldn't pop worth a cent;" the pollen of other varieties had fallen 
 
7H. 
 
 on the silk. Prescott says tliat tlie discovery of Columbus, viewed in 
 its results, was the greatest achievement ever wrought b}' a human 
 being. The introduction of corn into tlie old world was not the least 
 of these benefits. In 1872, there was raised in this country, seven 
 hundred and sixtj' million nine hundred and fortj^-four thousand five 
 hundred and forty-nine bushels of corn. We shipped abi'oad, in 
 1878, twenty-five million bushels. The largest yield of corn record- 
 ed for a single acre, is two hundred bushels. It was raised by Dr. 
 Parker, of South Carolina. A smaller area has yielded at tlie rate of 
 two hundred and sixty-chree bushels. 
 
 The practice of sowing corn for fodder is of recent origin, and 
 the man Avho will invent a process for curing it rapidly and thorough- 
 ly, will take rank as a public benefactor. 
 
 The Arabs have long been in the habit of selling to unsuspecting 
 travelers: "Mummy corn, from the tombs of Egypt." It is a pity to 
 explode so fine a fancy, but as our maize (corn) was unknown to the 
 Egyptians, of course there could have been none in their tombs. The 
 term corn, in the early times, embraced a number of grains, hence 
 Mrs. Whitman, in a fine description of Ceres, the goddess of the har- 
 vest, does not violate any of the dramatic luiities when she says: 
 
 "All the wealth 
 Of wreathed poppies and of sheathed corn 
 By Ceres, on her stately temples borne." 
 
 Wheat. 
 
 {Triticum Vulgar e.) 
 
 It ranks third in quantity of the grains raised for food, and first 
 in civilized lands. It is raised most extensively in the United States, 
 Russia, Turkey, Denmark, Hungary and Chili. Two of the great 
 wheat countries are now in mortal conflict. The loss to their produc- 
 tive industry must be immense, and its effects upon the price of bread- 
 stuffs will tell more plainly next year than at the present time. 
 
 In 1874, our country raised three hundred and nine million one 
 hundred and two thousand seven hundred bushels of wheat. The av- 
 erage yield per acre was twelve and three-tenths bushels. An aston- 
 ishing illustration of western progress is shown in a report from Cal- 
 ifornia. In 1850 that State raised seventeen thousand two hundred 
 bushels. In 1874, twenty-one million five hundred and four thousand 
 bushels. A competent authority, in speaking of that region, says, 
 that "from two thousand to four thousand acres is a moderate size 
 for a wheat farm, and there are not a few ten times as large." The 
 excellent variety, known as Tea Wheat, is said to have been first 
 grown from seed found in a chest of tea. 
 
 There is perhaps no better example of wasteful farming, than 
 that given by New York in the abuse of her wheat fields, where the 
 avei-age yield has declined from tliirty to six bushels per acre, while 
 that of England, after hundreds of years of cultivatioii, has risen 
 from six to thirty. 
 
/7. 
 Rye. 
 
 {Secale Cereale.) 
 
 Its origin is not Ivnown. It varies less under cultivation than any 
 other grain, only two varieties, the winter and spring rye being sown. 
 Tlie firm and glossy straw is very useful for many purposes. Flour- 
 ishing on new and poor soil, it seems to furnish the appropriate com- 
 plement to the wheat crop, and yields, in many lands, the wholesome 
 bread of the poor. In Sweden they make tliin cakes of it and string 
 tliem; they will keep thus for half a year. Our yield, in 1870, was 
 twenty million bushels. 
 
 Barley. 
 
 ( Hordeiim Vidgare. ) 
 
 This is more widelj' diffused, and moi-e generally, though not large- 
 Ij' used, than anj' otlier grain. In eai'ly times it formed one of the 
 principal articles of food throughout the world. Now a great part of 
 the crop, in many countries, is used, or rather misused, for tlie pro- 
 duction of malt liquors; one of the most monstrous perversions of 
 the bounties of Providence which can be found in the history of hu- 
 man sin and weakness. Our yield, in 1870, was fifteen million eight 
 hundred and twenty-ttve thousand eight hundred and ninety-eight 
 bushels. 
 
 Oats. 
 
 {Avena Saiiva.) 
 
 This is one of our most beautiful as well as productive cereals. 
 Its grains contain a very large amount of the phosphates, consequent- 
 ly it is an exhausting crop, and for the same reason is a stimulating 
 and nourishing food. Tiie old saying that a horse ''feels his oats," is 
 one of those attestations to truth which we sometimes find in popu- 
 lar language. The Irish use it extensively as an article of diet, and 
 in the form of oat-meal it often finds a place upon our breakfast ta- 
 bles. No doubt it could be used more generally than it is, with deci- 
 ded advantage. Dr. Johnson, it seems, did not have a very high 
 opinion of it, as he certainly did not of Scotchmen, for he sneeringly 
 remarked: "In England, oats are food for horses, in Scotland they 
 are food for men." Two or three varieties are particularly common. 
 Probably the best, the potato-oat, was accidentally found in a potato 
 field. This, again, shows us the value of farmers keeping tlieir eyes 
 wide open. 
 
 In 1870, there were raised in the United States, two hundred and 
 eighty-two million one hundred and seven thousand one hundred and 
 fifty-seven bushels. Fifty bushels on a single acre is a good crop, 
 though a greater number is not uncommon. There were produced, on 
 the farm of the Institute, this summer, on five-sixteentli>! of an acre, 
 (the piece selected for measurement), twenty-eight bushels and one 
 
peck; which would make a fraction over ninety bushels to the acre; 
 these were the horse-mane oats, so called because the grains incline 
 to one side of the stalk. 
 
 Millet. 
 
 ( Panicum Miliaceum. ) 
 
 The branch of the grass family to which this belongs, is not re- 
 markable for useful members. There are eight hundred and fifty 
 species of this genus, and millet is the only one that is of much val- 
 ue. Millet is sometimes gi-ound for meal, and is said to contain more 
 nutritious matter than anj^ other grain. 
 
 The name was given to this grain from the latin, mille, thousand, 
 
 on account of the vast number of its seeds. Speaking of the number 
 
 of seeds, I am reminded of the interesting table furnished by Mr. 
 
 Flint: 
 
 June Grass, about 3,888,000 seeds to the pound. 
 Orchard " " 640,000 " " " 
 
 Timothy " 1,100,000 " " " 
 
 Sweet Vernal " 923,200 " " " 
 
 Indian Rice, Water Oats. 
 
 (Zizania Aquatica.) 
 
 Most persons must have observed this beautiful plant growing in 
 the marshes and on the banks of our rivers. The Indians, in their 
 savage state, have always used it extensively for food. Pushing their 
 canoes through the graceful branches, as they grow up out of the 
 water, they bend them, and beat off the seeds into their boats. The 
 stalk itself, when tender, is said to be the sweetest of grasses. The 
 rail bird and the Baltimore oriole are exceedingly fond of its seeds, 
 and seek it on the shores of the Delaware and Chesapeake, to the 
 great delight of the watching sportsman. More than one author has 
 recommended that civilized man should adopt and domesticate this 
 wild, but promising denizen of the forest, one remarking: "This plant 
 seems to be designed by nature to become the bread-corn of the 
 North." Nature sometimes seems to pour her richest gifts into the 
 laps of her idlest children. The amount of ground, which, in wheat, 
 would support one man, in bananas would sustain twenty-five. No 
 "sower goes forth to sow" the wild rice of the cold northwest, but a 
 little observation will reveal the truth, that she brings her choicest 
 treasures to the noble toilers in her fields. 
 
 Sugar Cane. 
 
 ( Saccharum Officinarum. ) 
 
 The sources of sugar are numerous. In early times it was pro- 
 duced from dates, bananas, and other fruits. The maple, in our own 
 section, yields a large quantit3^ Beets, sorghum, corn and sugar 
 cane have it in consideral)le amount, but our greatest source of sup- 
 
70. 
 
 ply is tlie last mentioned. The West Indies and Guli States yield 
 iunnense ciuantities, which are shii)pod to all quarters of the globe. 
 The mode of planting is quite similar to that practiced in the raising 
 of corn, though cuttings are planted instead of seeds. 
 
 A very interesting member of the genera §orghum, to which the 
 sugar cane belongs, is broom-corn. We owe this valuable grain to 
 the investigating habits of Dr. Franklin. Being shown a curious 
 brush which had been brouglit from eastern Asia, he examined it 
 carefully, and found a single seed; he planted it, and this was the 
 beginning of the great industries which are now connected with the 
 cultivation of this plant and the pro<luction of brooms. This is not 
 the only blessing which farmers have derived from that wonderful 
 embodiment of common and uncommon sense. The precepts of 
 "Poor Eichard'' still pass as current coin among them. To him we 
 owe the introduction of plaster as a fertilizer. It is said that he 
 brought it into use by sowing it over a field of grain on a hill-side, 
 so as to form, in immense letters, the sentence, "Effects of Gypsum." 
 The rapid growth which followed, soon made the plaster speak for 
 itself. 
 
 Bamboo. 
 
 ( Bamhusa Arundinacea. ) 
 
 This is the king of the grasses, and stands head and shouldei s 
 above all the other members of his excellent family, for he sometimes 
 rises to the height of one hundred feet. It is not his stature alone 
 that makes him great, but the varied and useful qualities which he 
 possesses. We cannot do better than quote a description of the won- 
 derful and almost innumerable uses served by this member of the 
 grass family. 
 
 "The young and tender shoots are boiled and eaten, or preserved 
 by the confectioners, and, as sweetmeats, are delicious. The roots 
 serve many curious purposes. The tubes are in constant use in many 
 departments of human industry; not only are entire houses and boats 
 made of them, in some cases, but various kinds of ornamental screen 
 work, for interior decoration ; also the yards of vessels, and the tack- 
 ing poles by which boats are propelled in calm and shallow waters. 
 The straightest of the tubes have been used for astronomical pur- 
 poses, and cheap acqueducts are in common use, formed by fitting 
 the ends together. Shreds are made from the bamboo by softening it 
 in water and flattening the section, and these when split fine are made 
 into rain cloaks. Floats to tie on the backs of little children who 
 live in boats on rivers, as well as the poles by which strong coolies 
 carry burdens, come alike from this tree. Water-wheels, ropes, chairs, 
 tables, bookcases, boxes, hats, umbrellas, pipe-sticks, fancj' fan-cases, 
 cups, measures for grain, shields, pike and spear handles, and paper, 
 all are formed from the bamboo. The pith is used for lamp-wicks, 
 and exquisite carvings, inlaid with silver and gold, and far more el- 
 
20. 
 
 egant than ivory work, are produced from the hard stem. From the 
 large quantity of silex iu tlie wood, thin slices make good knives." 
 
 After this description, none will be disposed to dispute the title 
 of the bamboo as "king of the grasses." 
 
 Such are a few of the most important members of this interest- 
 ing family. Let ns now briefly consider their homes. 
 
 Meadows. 
 
 Tlie plowing of land for the sowing of grass is of comparatively 
 recent origin, but the nurturing of meadows for the production of 
 hay is of early date. This was very largely accomplished in the east 
 by means of irrigation. A remarkable illustration of the effects of 
 improved culture can be found in the history of the Moors in Grena- 
 da, flaving conquered this portion of Spain, which is not remarka- 
 ble for its agricultural excellence, they introduced the improvements 
 of their own country, building acqueducts and canals for flooding, 
 and raised the products of her soil to an annual sum of thirty mil- 
 lions of dollars, — more money then than the yearly revenue of all the 
 Christian sovereigns of the world. Irrigation is the source of the 
 fertility along the Po, on the plains of Lombai'dy, and tlie meadows 
 around Edinboro, over the latter of which they pour their liquid ma- 
 nures, and thus secure the astonishing yield which has been already 
 mentioned. Our meadows are abused and not farmed. We stint 
 them of seeds and rob them of fertilizers. If tliis continues it is not 
 difficult to foresee the result. The practice of selling our hay if not 
 carefully watched, will surely inipoverisli these fertile valleys. We 
 have already learned from the census maps where our strength lies. 
 If we continue to shear our fields and deprive them of their strength, 
 they will become like Samsou shorn of his hair. Rather double tiie 
 seed, use every pound of fertilizer you can get, plow under the ricli 
 growth of grass and weeds, and with the nicest care guard one of 
 the richest treasures ever vouchsafed to a prosperous people. 
 
 Pastures. 
 
 The earliest traditions of the world are connected with a pastoral 
 life. The wealth of the early generations consisted cliieflj' in flocks. 
 The future King of Israel tended the cattle, and from the beautiful 
 scenes around him received those poetic impressions which are often 
 breathed forth from his inspired lyi'e, now rising to sublime strains, 
 now sinking to pensive and restful sweetness as he sings: "He maketh 
 me to lie down in green pastures; He leadeth me beside the still 
 water." 
 
 Our own pastures yield the largest amount of our money, but 
 their beauty is sometimes liard to see. When do the cattle bring the 
 farmer his gains? In the sununer. When, then, slfould tliey be best 
 fed? We answer, in tlie summer. Let them go in clover and timo- 
 tliy up to their eyes, not in the marshes, where there is nothing to 
 
2i. 
 
 eat but brambles and blackberry vines. I am satisfied we have too 
 mucli land in our pastures; half as much, brushed, seeded, harrowed 
 or plowed, and sowed, would give a far riclier return. 
 
 A better opportunitj' for a display of judgment, slvill and good 
 economy, was never offered than that presented in the problem, 
 How shall we improve and bring to the highest productiveness, our 
 pasture lands? 
 
 Pampas. 
 
 Stretching away from the base of the Cordilleras, and elsewhere 
 in South America, tliese great plains extend over an area of a million 
 and a half square miles, equal to half the surface of the United 
 States. Here countless lierds lind abundant pasture. Though there 
 were no cattle in South America at the time it was discovered, it is 
 estimated that tliere are now more feeding wild on the pampas, than 
 there are of domesticated cattle in all Europe. The}' live cliietly up- 
 on a luxuriant growth of clover and thistles, greatly preferiing them 
 to tlie pampa grass. If the bamboo, by reason of strength should be 
 crowned king, the pampa grass, by reason of beauty, should be 
 named. "queen." Bising to tlie height of six feet, with a breadth as 
 great, it throws up lofty panicles, ten or fifteen feet from the ground, 
 waving with a silky and silvery lustre; its splendid flowers, sometimes 
 tinted with yellow and purple, and the great leaves occasionally 
 varied with white. Imagine a horseman, with lasso in hand, riding 
 at full speed under their nodding plumes, after the fleeing herd, and 
 you have one of the most picturesque scenes of that southern land. 
 
 Prairies. 
 
 Buffalo paths and Indian trails are rapidly giving place to public 
 highways and railroads. Yet there will long linger in the traditions 
 of men, stories of the earlier times, when the wild beast fed upon 
 tlie rich prairies of the west. 
 
 The Buffalo Grass, like its associate in name, is the hardy native 
 of our soil. It seems fitted to resist alike the heat of summer and the 
 frosts of winter. The pioneer often finds it to be his best friend, 
 though old men tell of fearful scenes, when, wrapped in flames and 
 smoke, it threatened to become to them a billowy sea of death. 
 
 Lawns. 
 
 The wavy outline of these blue hills and sky is beautiful. These 
 magnificent forests are grand, but tliere is one element of loveliness 
 which our section possesses that surpasses all others, — it is the rich- 
 ness, greenness and abundance of our grass. Shall we not make the 
 most of It? Let us spread it out smootli, like a carpet, even and vel- 
 vet}', before our homes. Displace the pig-pen and the wood-pile 
 from the front yard, straighten tlie fence, curve the paths, cut down 
 the weeds, and let the grace and beauty that surround the English 
 
22. 
 cottage, adorn the places where we live. I plead for the wife and 
 children, that they may have a spot for flowers and fragrance, the 
 green turf, soft to the weary feet, for romping and croquet in the 
 evening twilight: tall trees to spread their ample shade along the 
 road, not less than blossoming orchards in your fields. A little taste 
 would transform scores of places that we see, now harsh and re- 
 pulsive, into pleasant and attractive homes. There may be no carpet 
 on the floor, but there can be one spread upon the yard, fairer than 
 Tyrian purple and more enduring than the costly fabrics of Brussels. 
 Oh! when shall we learn tliat "the life is more than meat," that it is 
 wise to gladden the hearts of wives and children, and the aged, by 
 surrounding our homes with the atmosphere of beauty? 
 
 Landscapes. 
 
 There is one who has striven all his life long to awaken in the 
 hearts of English-speaking people, the sentiment of love for the 
 beautiful. A poet who writes in prose, a painter who never touches 
 brush to canvas, — lluskin, the art critic of old England. Listen to his 
 matchless words as he points out to us such loveliness as we never 
 saw in grass before: 
 
 "The Greeks, we have seen, delighted in the grass for its useful- 
 ness; the mediaeval, as also we moderns, for its color and beauty. 
 But both dwell on it as the first element of the lovely landscape. 
 Gather a single blade of grass and examine for a minute, quietly, its 
 narrow, sword shaped strip of fluted green. Nothing, as it seems 
 there, of notable goodness or beauty. And yet, think of it well, and 
 judge whether of all the goi'geous flowers that bloom in the summer 
 air, and of all strong and goodly trees, pleasant to the eye and good 
 for food, stately palm and pine, strong ash and oak, scented citron, 
 burdened vine,— there be any by man so deeply loved, by God so 
 highly graced, as that narrow point of tender green. And well does 
 it fulfill its mission. Consider what we owe merely to the meadow 
 grass — to the covering of the dark ground bj" that glorious enamel, 
 by the companies of those soft and countless and peaceful spears. 
 The fields! Follow forth but for a little while the thoughts of all 
 that we ought to recognize in those words. All spring and summer 
 is in them — the walks by silent, scented paths — the rests in noonday 
 heat — the joy of herds and flocks — the power of all shepherd life and 
 meditation, — the life of sunlight upon the world, falling in emerald 
 streaks, and failing in soft, blue shadows, where else it would have 
 struck upon the dark mould or scorching dust, — pastures beside the 
 pacing brooks, — soft banks and knolls of lovely hills, — young slopes 
 of down, overlooked by the blue line of lifted sea, — crisp lawn, all 
 dim with early dew, or smooth in evening's warmth of barred sun- 
 shine, dinted with happy feet, and softening in their fall the sound 
 of loving voices. All these are summed up in those simple words; 
 
23. 
 
 and these are not all. As you follow the Avinding mountain path, 
 beneath arching boughs all veiled and dim with blossoms, — paths that 
 forever droop and rise over the green banks and mounds sweeping 
 down in scented undulations steep to the blue water, studded here 
 and there with new-mown heaps, filling all the air with fainter sweet- 
 ness, look up toward the higiier hills, where the waves of everlasting 
 green roll silently into their long inlets among the shadows of the 
 pines; and we may, perhaps, at last know the meaning of those quiet 
 words: 'He maketh grass to grow upon the mountains.'" 
 
 Conclusion. 
 
 In conclusion: — Be proud of your farms, whether large or small. 
 Know that the landholder is the true lord. It has ever been so. That 
 is a fine old picture given us of Cincinnatus at the plow, going from 
 it as dictator to save his country, and quickly returning to it when his 
 task was done. The world looked on in wonder to see that act i-e- 
 peated on a large scale in our own day, when our farmers and their 
 sons left their plows to save their country, and when their work was 
 accomplished, contrary to the sneering prophesy of tyrants, hastened 
 back to resume their labors. 
 
 Horace Greely thus closes his history of the American Conflict; 
 "Thus rapidly, as well as peacefully and joyously, were the mighti- 
 est hosts ever called into the field by a republic, restored to the tran- 
 quil paths of industry and thrift, melting back by regiments into qui- 
 et citizenship, with nothing to distinguish them from others but the 
 proud consciousness of having served and saved their country." 
 
 A distinguished officer in our regular army, owns a poor little 
 farm on the coast of Rhode Island. He never lives on it, but cherish- 
 es it with the fondest care; for, said he to me, ''It has been in our 
 family two hundred years, descending from father to son, to my boy 
 next, and so on I hope till the crack of doom."' Young men, are you 
 eager to leave the farm-house and the faini ? You make a great mis- 
 take. Mercantile life in the city has nothing to offer you as an 
 equivalent for what you lose. Careful statistics sliow that 95 per cent, 
 of the young men who go from the country to seek their fortunes in 
 the city, make a failure. Tilling the soil is better work than measuring 
 tape. It will be a happy day for our country when this wretched 
 disposition among our young people, to leave the fields and manual 
 labor for the hazards of business, shall be radically changed. The 
 professions are over-stocked. The banks and stores have more clerks 
 than they want; but the blessed acres of God are still plentiful, and 
 invite all willing hands to sieze their riches. Let the young farmer 
 become intelligent and observing. Let him secure the best education 
 the country affords, and it is in his»power; remembering that it is 
 mind that conquers matter, that thought alone creates invention, over- 
 comes the barrenness of soils, supplies fertilizers, crowns the earth 
 with fertility, and blesses man with wealth and a higher civilization. 
 
2i-. 
 
 Be proud of your heritage and happy in your work. When Croesus, 
 the wealthiest man of antiquity, aslved Solon, the wise man of Greece, 
 who he thought was the happiest man in the world, Solon answered: 
 "Tulus, an Athenian, for he owns twelve acres of land which 
 he tills with his own hands, and possesses a lovely wife and ten con- 
 tented children." 
 
 Yours is a life of toil, of hard hands and sweaty brows, but it 
 may be blessed with virtue, health, plenty, and more than kingly in- 
 dependence, for 
 
 •'Honor waits o'er all the earth. 
 Through endless generations; 
 Tlie art that calls her harvests forth, 
 And feeds the expectant nations." 
 
APPENDIX 
 
 -9J 
 
 Throngli the courtesy of Ivison, Blakenian, Taylor & Co.. of 
 New York, I am permitted to use the beautiful lithographic eno rav- 
 iags of the grasses published by them iu their admirable work, "The 
 Lessons and Manual of Botany," by Prof. A^a Gray. The illustra- 
 tions cover the whole sixty-six genera mentioned and desci-ibed by 
 him. I have also used his explanations of the plates, simply adding 
 such remarks as will make them intelligible to any who may not have 
 a critical knowledge of the subject. 
 
 The parts inclosed in each parenthesis are explanatorj' of wliat 
 immediately precedes them, thu>: — Leersia oryzoides, (Rice Cut- 
 grass.) 
 
 The first name, printed in larger type, is the name of a genus; 
 the second word, which is afterwards joined to it, is the name of a 
 species of that genus; for example, Lekrsia, (genus), Leersia ory- 
 zoides (the name of a species), and so on through all the expla- 
 nations. 
 
2fi. EXPLANATION OF PLATES. PLATE VII. 
 
 Leersia (White Grass.) — Panicle of Leersia oryzoides (Rice Ciit- 
 j>rass) reduced in size (1); abranchletof the same, with its spike- 
 lets (little flowers of the grasses), of the natural size (2); and an 
 open spikelet in flower, enlarged (3). 
 
 ZiZANiA, (Water or Indian Eice). — A staminate (flowers having 
 stamens but not pistils), (1), and a pistilate (flower having pistils 
 but not stamens), (2), flower or spikelet of Zizania Aquatica (In- 
 dian Kice, Water Oats); a magnifled pistil with a pair of scales 
 (3); a grain (4); and a magnified longitudinal section of the 
 lower part of the same, showing the embryo (the rudimentary, 
 undeveloped plantlet in the seed) at the outside of the base of the 
 albumen. 
 
 Alopecurds (Fox-tail Grass). — Part of a plant of Alopecurus geni- 
 culatus (Floating Fox-tall) in flower (1) ; a few spikelets from 
 the spike-like infloresence (mode of flowering), moderately mag- 
 nifled (2) ; an open spikelet in flower, more magnifled (3), and 
 the single lower palet (chaff) detached (4). 
 
 Phleum (Cat's-tail Grass). — A detached spikelet of Phleum pratense 
 (Timothy Herd's Grass in New England and New York) having 
 the flower with its palets (chaff or minor husks of grass) raised 
 above the glumes (chaff or outer husks of each spikelet), mag- 
 nified. 
 
 Crypsis (Crypsis). — Infloresence (1) of Crypsis scholnoides; a sepa- 
 rate enlarged spikelet (2); and the same open, in flower (3). 
 
 Vilfa (Rush Grass). — An enlarged spikelet of Vilfa vaginaeflara (1) 
 and the same displayed (2). 
 
 Sparobalus (Drop-seed Grass).— A spikelet of Sparobolus cryptan- 
 drus. magnified (1); the same with the flower open, the palets 
 raised above the glumes (2); and the fruit (3), more magnified, 
 showing the seed loose in the pericarp (the skin or covering of 
 the seed). 
 
 Agrostis (Bent-grass). — Panicle of Agrostis vulgaris (Red-top, 
 Herd's-grass in Pa.) (1); with an enlarged open spikelet of the 
 same; also (3) the rough pedicel (the stalk of each particular 
 flower of a cluster) and glumes or chaff of Agrostis scabra (Hair 
 grass) with the flower separated, the latter having no upper palet 
 or chaff. 
 
d^ivir 
 
30. EXPLANATION OF PLATES. PLATE VlII 
 
 POLYPOGON (Beard-grass). — Spike-like, contracted panicle of Poly- 
 pogon Monspeliensis (1); an enlarged, detached spikelet, showing 
 the long awns (a bristle-like appendage to the flower of some 
 grasses) to the glumes (2); the same open yi flower (3); and a 
 separate flower without the glumes (4). 
 
 CiNNA (Wood Reed-grass). — A magnified spikelet of Cinna armdina- 
 cea (1); and the same open, displaying the palet, the single stam- 
 ens and the pistil (2). 
 
 MUHLENDERGIA (Drop-seed). — A magnified closed spikelet of Muhl- 
 endergia sylvatiea (1); the same with the open flower raised out 
 of the glumes (2); a magnified spikelet of Muhlendergia differa 
 (Nimble Will) (3); its minute and unequal glumes more magni- 
 fied (4); and an open spikelet of the same (5). 
 
 BuACiiYELYTKUM.— A spikelet of Brachyelytrum aristatum enlarged 
 (1); the same displayed (2); 
 
 Calamagkostis (Keed Bent-grass). — An open spikelet of Calama- 
 grostis Canadensis (Blue Joint-grass) enlarged, displaying all the 
 parts (1); the same with the flower raised out of the glumes, 
 showing the hairy rudiment behind the upper palet (2). 
 
 Oryzopsis (Mountain Rice). — An open, magnified spikelet of Ory- 
 zopsis asperifolia (1); and the flower of the same removed from 
 the glumes (2). Notice the remnrkablj^ long hypogynous (insert- 
 ed under the pistil) scales, which here nearly equal the palets in 
 length. 
 
 Stipa (Feather-grass). — Glumes and flower (a little separated) of 
 Stipa avenacca (Black Oat-grass) enlarged. 
 
 Aristida (Tripple-awned Grass). — A spikelet of Aristida purpuras- 
 cens, enlarged. 
 
N' e T\ e f ' 1 o f 7 "f* a .s s e s 
 
 m. 
 
 / ntrr^i au. 
 
34. EXPLANATION OF PLATES. PLATE IX. 
 
 Spartina (Cord or Marsh Grass). — Portion of the uifloresence of 
 Spartina stricta (Salt Marsh Grass) of the natural size (1); a 
 spikelet enlarged (2); and the same displayed, the flower raised 
 above the glumes (3). 
 
 Ctenium (Toothache Grass). — Spike of CteniumAmericanuui (1); a 
 single spikelet magnified (2); and the same displayed, the glumes 
 separated (3). 
 
 Bouteloua (Muskit Grass). — A portion of the compound spike, of 
 the natural size (1); and a spike displayed and magnified (2); 
 the flower raised out of the glumes. 
 
 Gymnopogon (Naked-beard Grass). — Infioresence of gymnopogon 
 racemosus, reduced in size (1); and a magnified spikelet with the 
 parts displayed (2). 
 
 Cynodon (Bermuda or Scotch Grass). — Infioresence of digitate 
 (spreading out like the fingers of the hand) spikes (1); a spike- 
 let magnified and displayed, showing a perfect flower and a rudi- 
 ment (2). 
 
 Dactyloctenium (Egyptian Grass). — Infioresence of Dactylocteni- 
 um Egyptiacum, of digitate spikes (1); one of the spikelets mag- 
 nified (2); the fruit magnified (3); showing the seed loose in the 
 thin pericarp, and (4) the wrinkled seed more magnified. 
 
 Eleusine (Crab-Grass Yard-Grass). — One of the spikes from the 
 digitate infioresence of Elusine Indica (Dog's-tail or Wire Grass) 
 (1); a magnified spikelet (2); the same with the flowers more dis- 
 played (3); a flower of the last, showing its parts (4); the fruit 
 showing the seed loose in the pericarp (5); and tlie wrinkled seed 
 detached (6) 
 
 Septochloa. — Small portion of the infioresence of Septochloa fascu- 
 laris(l); one of its spikelets displayed and magnified (2); an 
 open fiower of the same (3). 
 
SahlK. 
 
 ^Y\yr-a'pM.e^. 
 
38. EXPLANATION OF PLATES. PLATE X. 
 
 Tricuspis. — Magnified spikelet of Tricuspis sulerioides (Tall Eed- 
 top) (1); the same displayed and the lowest flower open (2); 
 back view of the lower palets spread out (3). 
 
 Grapiiephorum. — A magnified spikelet of Graphephorum melicoi- 
 des displayed (1); a part of the hairy rhachis (the axis of the 
 spike) and one flower of the same (3). 
 
 DiAKRHENA. — A spikelet of Diarrheua Americana enlarged (1); the 
 grain and palets (2). 
 
 Dactvlis (Orchard Grass). — A spikelet of Dactylis glemerata magni- 
 fied and -lisplayetl. 
 
 KOELERIA. — A magnified spikelet of Koeleria cristata, expanded, 
 showing the glumes, the three flowers and a rudiment (1); lower 
 part of a lower palet partly spread open (2); it is much more 
 folded and keeled in its natural condition. 
 
 Eatonia. — A magnified spikelet of Eatonia obturata, expanded, 
 showing the glumes, the two flowers and a rudiment. 
 
 Melica (Melic Grass). — A magnified spikelet of Melica mutica, ex- 
 panded, showing the glumes, two perfect (having stamens and 
 pistils) flowers and an abortive one. 
 
 Glyceria (Manna Grass). — A magnified spikelet of Glyceria nerva- 
 la (Fowl-Meadow Grass) (1); a separate fiower with one joint of 
 the rachis (2); and (3) the lower half of a lower palet, showing 
 its form (rounded on the back, not keeled). 
 
 Brizopyrum (Spike Grass). — A pistillate spikelet of Brizoijyrum spi- 
 catum, enlarged, (It; a flower from the same (2); and a flower 
 from a staminate spikelet (3). 
 
 Poa (Meadow Grass, Spear Grass). — Panicle of Poa compressed 
 (VVire Grass) reduced in size (1); a magnified spikelet (2) a sep- 
 arate flower more magnified (3); a lower palet cut across and 
 somewhat outspread (4). 
 
 Eraguostis. — A spikelet of Eragrostis pilosa enlarged (1); the same 
 from which the glumes and all of six lower flowers except the 
 upper palet have fallen away (2); a magnified fiower open (3); 
 the lower palet of the same outspread (4). 
 
 Briza (Quaking Grass). — A spikelet of Briza media enlarged (1); a 
 separate flower (2). 
 
 Festuca (Fescue Grass). — A spikelet of Festuca elatior (Taller or 
 Meadow Fescura) enlarged (1); a separate flower (2); lower part 
 of a lower palet outspread (3). 
 
 Bromus (Broom Grass). — A spikelet of Bromus secalimus or chess 
 (1); and a separate flower enlarged (2). 
 
V"^'^ 
 
42. EXPLANATION OF PLATES. PLATE XL 
 
 Uniola (Spike Grass).— A spikelet of Uniola Latifolia of about the nat- 
 ural size (1); a flower enlarged (2); empty lower palet of the 
 lowest (sterile) flower (3). 
 
 Phkagmites. — A spikeletof Phragraites communis enlarged (1); one 
 of the perfect (having both pistils and stamens) flowers, enlarged 
 (2) and the lowest flower (3) which has stamens only. 
 
 Arundinauia. — A spikeletof Arundinaria macrosperma (1); and a 
 separate flower magnified (2). 
 
 LeptuPvUS. — Portion of the spike of Lepturus paniculatus enlarged 
 (1); and a flower magnified (2). 
 
 LOLiL'M (Darnel). — Portion of the spike of Lolium temulentum (1) 
 and a separate flower magnified (2). This is the only species of 
 grass that is poisonous. 
 
 Triticum (Wheat).— Portion of the spike of Triticum repens (Couch 
 Quitch or Quick Grass) of about the natural size (1); a flower 
 magnified (2). 
 
 HORDEUM (Barley). — The three one-flowered spikelets from one joint 
 of the spike of Hordenm jublatum (Squirrel-tail Grass) with their 
 awn-like glumes, the lateral flowers abortive and neutral, the 
 middle one alone perfect (1); this perfect flower (with an awn- 
 like rudiment) open and enlarged (2). 
 
 Elymus (Lime Grass, Wild Rye). — The two spikelets of one joint of 
 the spike of Eiynuis Virginicus, about the natural size (1); the 
 glumes and the flowers of one spikelet enlarged and displayed 
 (2); and an open flower more magnified (3). 
 
 Gymnostichum (Bottle-brush Grass*.— A spikelet of Gymnostichum 
 Hj'strix (1); and an expanded flower magnified (2) 
 
i-yyu^jju^^ 
 
46. EXPLANATION OF PLATES. PLATE XII. 
 
 AiRA (Hair-Grass). — Panicle of Aira flexuosa (Common Hair Grass) 
 (1); a spikelet magnified, tlie parts displayed (2); and one of the 
 flowers detached and open (3). 
 
 Danthonia (Wild Oat-grass).— Panicle of Danthonia spicata (1); a 
 spikelet enlarged (2); and a separate flower of the same (3). 
 
 Trisetum, — A spikelet of Trisetum subspicatum, expanded and mag- 
 nified (1); and a separate open flower (2). 
 
 A VENA (Oat). — A spikelet of Avena stricta displaj^ed and magnified 
 (1); and a separate flower (2). 
 
 Arriienatherum (Oat-grass). -A spikelet of Arrhenatherum averace- 
 iim displayed and magnified (1); the glumes (2); the flowers, the 
 lower one staminate only, the next one perfect, and the third a 
 rudiment. 
 
 HOLCUS (Meadow Soft-grass). — A spikelet of Holcus lavatus (Velvet 
 Grass) magnified (1); the same displayed to show the two flow- 
 ers, the lower one perfect and awnless, the upper staminate and 
 awned (2). 
 
<rahM. 
 
 3' 
 
50. EXPLANATION OF PLATES. PLATE XIIL 
 
 HiEROCHLOA (Holy Grass). — A spikelet of Hierochloa borealis (Va- 
 nilla or Seneca Grass) enlarged (1); the same displayed, the flow- 
 ers separate from the olumes, the two lateral ones with their sta- 
 mens and no pistil; the middle or terminal one witli a pistil and 
 only two stamens (2). 
 
 Anthoxanthum (Sweet Vernal Grass). — The spikelet-like inflores- 
 ence of Anthoxanthnm odoratum (1); a spikelet maj^nified (2); 
 another with the parts displajed, the flowers raised from the 
 glumes, the lateral ones neutral, each of a single and awned*palet, 
 the middle one perfect (3). 
 
 • 
 Phalaris (Canary Grass). — A spikelet of Phalaris a rundinacea en- 
 larged (1); the glumes and the perfect flower, with a hairy rudi- 
 ment on each side of it (2). 
 
 Milium (Millet Grass). — Portion of the panicle of Milium effusum 
 (1); a closed spikelet magnified (2), and the same displayed (2). 
 
 Amphicarpum. — A spikelet from the panicle of anipliicarpum Pur- 
 shii magnified (1); the same with the parts displayed (2); and a 
 radicle (fertile) spikelet enlarged (3). 
 
 Paspalum. — Infloresence of Paspalum laeve (1); a closed spikelet 
 enlarged (2); the same with the parts displayed (3). 
 
 Panicum (Panic Grass;. — Part of a spike of Panicum (Digitaria) 
 sanguinale (Common Crab or Finger Grass) (1); one of its spike- 
 lets enlarged (2); the same with the parts displayed (3); in this 
 the lower flower is neutral and of a single palet. A spikelet of 
 Panicum Capillare (Old-witch Grass) magnified (4); andthesame 
 displayed (5); the lower flower a single palet. A spikelet of 
 Panicum clandestinum magnified (6); and the same displayed (7) 
 the lower neutral of two palets. A spikelet of Panicum virgatum 
 magnified (8i; the same displayed (9); the lower palets of two 
 flowers and staminate. 
 
 Set aria (Bristly Fox-tail Grass). — A magnified spikelet of Setaria 
 glauca (Foxtail) with tlie accompanying cluster of bristles (1); 
 the spikelet displayed, showing the neutral lower flower of two 
 palets and the perfect flower (2). 
 
"I I' lie I' n I.) 
 
 P 
 -■fva 
 
 s se"^ 
 
 JabXOJ 
 
 Selmiu 
 
 7 L\) 
 
 J anicuTTi 
 
 •/^.,..^..,. , 
 
54. EXPLANATION OF PLATKS. PLATE XIV. 
 
 Cenciikus (Hedgehog or Bur Grass). — Involiiicre (a whorl or set of 
 little leaves called bracts under and around certain flowers) of 
 Cenchrus tribuloides in flower enlarged (1); longtitudinal section 
 of the same (2); a spikelet displayed (3); the stigmas should be- 
 long to the right-hand flower; the left-hand or lower flower is 
 only staniinate. 
 
 Tkipsacum (Gama Grass, Sesame Grass). — Piece of the spike of the 
 natural size, pistillate below, staniinate above (1); a longitudinal 
 section of one of the pistillate spikelets (2); a pistillate spikelet 
 with its parts displayed (3); a staniinate (two-flowered) spikelet 
 with its parts displaj'ed (4). 
 
 Erianthus (Woolly Beard-grass). — Pari of the hairy infloresence 
 with two spikelets of Erianthus alopecnroides enlarged (1); one of 
 the spikelets displayed (2). 
 
 Andropogon (Beard Grass). — Small portion of the spike of Andro- 
 pogon furcatus enlarged, with one fertile and awned spikelet, and 
 one staniinate and awnless spikelet (1); the fertile spikelet (2); 
 and the staminate (3) displayed. 
 
 Sorghum (Broom Corn). — A fertile spikelet of Sorghum nutans (In-' 
 dian Grass Wood Grass) enlarged, with a sterile pedicel (having 
 no flowers on the flower stem) on each side (1); the spikelet dis- 
 played (2). 
 
•fab. XIV 
 

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