Under what circumstances should the roller be used?
4. The soil is so compacted at the surface, that it is less frequented by grubs, etc., than when it is more loose.
5. When the soil is smoothed in this manner, there is less surface exposed for the evaporation of water with its cooling effect.
6. Light sandy lands, by being rolled in the fall, are rendered more compact, and the loosening effects of frequent freezing and thawing are avoided.
Although productive of these various effects, rolling should be adopted only with much care, and should never be applied to very heavy lands, except in dry weather when lumpy after plowing, as its tendency in such cases would be to render them still more difficult of cultivation. Soils in which air does not circulate freely, are not improved by rolling, as it presses the surface-particles still more closely together, and prevents the free admission of the atmosphere.
If well under-drained, a large majority of soils would doubtless be benefited by a judicious use of the roller.[AL]
MULCHING.
What is mulching?
What are some of its benefits?