Rensselaer Union, Volume 7, Number 17, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 14 January 1875 — Observation. [ARTICLE]

Observation.

We have before referred to the value of well conducted experiments on the farm, and have urged the necessity of each farmer putting them into operation for his own benefit. General directions for the cultivation of all crops, and for the successful management of all farm operations, can be given, but no special rules can be laid down that will apply to the peculiar condition of each farm, or the surroundings of each farmer. In the minutiae of all these things each man must ascertain the facts for himself, and hence arises the absolute necessity of individual tests and close observation. The ordinary farmer cannot enter into costly and extended experiments, and they are, not necessary. What he needs is a knowledge of the capacities and requisites of his particular farm, and these he«can ascertain in the course of his ordinary operations, by varying his methods, and closely observing all the facts that present themselves, and carefully recording and comparing results. That there is a great lack of this observation is but too evident. A farmer will feed stock for years and years, and will then inquire how much a cow, a horse or a hog will eat in a day, or how muettt is necessary to sustain life, or keep in good condition. He has fed blindly and never noted results. Another will feed and fatten and kill litter after litter of pigs, of different breeds and ages, and then ask which breed is best, how much corn ought to be fed, at what age hogs ought to be killed, etc., all of which he cqpld easily have ascertained by simply observing his own common operations. Another will ask what variety of wheat is the best. Some one can tell him what succeeds best on his farm, but cannot answer for any other man’s soil. In all such matters it is but too evident that nothing can take the place of personal attention to, and the closest observation Jof, all the details of farm operations. The beginning of the year is the time to begin the work of closer observation. Let it include every operation, as, in the progress of the seasons, each comes in to demand attention. Begin with the feeding and care of stock, procure varieties of seed for coming spring cultivation, and lay plans for future development. Begin and conduct every operation with a determination to learn every lesson it contains, so that you may be prepared to conduct all future similar operations intelligently, and in the light of all the experience you have had. Agricultural science is yet in its infancy. Great truths lie hidden in the fields and orchards aud vineyards and herds and flocks, and every son of toil may aid in bringing them to light, tb benefit himself and bless mankind. —Ohio Farmer.