Mustard Increases Fertility
The three pens before mentioned, after being fed as described through the Winter months, were mated in the month of March, and it was found that the fertility of the eggs of the mustard fed pen far exceeded that of either of the other pens, and that the resulting chicks were much stronger, developed better, and were altogether more desirable than the chicks produced where the birds had been fed merely the ordinary ration, and where the attempt had been made to stimulate the egg production by the use of red pepper.
The exact action of mustard, in the animal or human being, is a somewhat disputed point, but the Medical Fraternity seems to agree that it increases the secretion of gastric juices, and very decidedly promotes good digestion.
A great layer must be a large eater, but she cannot be a large eater unless she is kept in perfect health, and has the necessary appetite which only comes when in a strong, robust, vigorous condition.
The Corning Egg Farm has fed mustard in a way that it has never been fed before; the egg production has increased very materially; the percentage of fertility has run considerably higher; the germs have been strong, large, hatchable germs, and the resulting chicks, have come into existence with a jump and, where they have been properly handled, have rapidly grown into sturdy youngsters.