4. The crown of the plant (at the surface of the ground),—describe it, and how the tops and the roots start from it.
5. The stems,—how many from each crown, whether erect or prostrate, how they branch.
6. The leaves,—simple or compound? Form? Edges entire or fine toothed? Do the leaves "sleep" at night, as those of clover do?
7. Do you find any distinct spots on the leaves? What do you think is the cause of them?
8. Flowers,—how borne (whether singly or in clusters), color, form, resemblance to any other flowers you may know. Do they vary in color?
9. If possible, find the seed-pods and seeds, and describe.
10. Make inquiries as to whether alfalfa is becoming well known in your vicinity.
Agricultural Account of Alfalfa.
You may be asked some practical questions about alfalfa; therefore we give you a brief agricultural account of it. If you desire further information, write to the College of Agriculture, Ithaca, N. Y., for Bulletin 221, "Alfalfa in New York."
Alfalfa is grown mostly for hay. It is not adapted to pasture, because the new growth springs from the crown at the surface of the ground, and if this is destroyed the growth will not be renewed vigorously. New York is a hay-producing State. Grain feeds can be grown more cheaply in the West. It is of great importance to the State, therefore, if a better hay-producing plant can be found. We have seen that New York leads the States in dairy cattle. Other livestock also is abundant. Last year more than half a million horses and mules were fed in the State.