If the plowed layer is not settled firmly
against the bottom of the furrow, anv
water that passes into the soil below
the plowed layer cannot move up-wwrd
by capillarity, where it would be avail
able to shallow rooted plants. In other
words, the whole plowed layer will act
as a mulch to the lower soil. The plow
ed layer will soon dry out, and the plants
will suffer. Not only must the plowed
layer be in firm contact with the bottom
of the furrow, but this layer must be
sufficit nth- compacted.
When land is plowed four to si" inches
deep-near planting time, it is very
essential that the soil should be thor
oughly fined and compacted. Mr. Camp
bell's Subsurface Packer is probably
the best tool for thoroughly packing
th plowed layer against the bottom of
the furrow, and for giving the soil the
necessary compactness. The packer.
should follow the plow as soon as possi
ble. Four to six inches are deep enough
for late breaking as when the soil is
broken deeper than this, it is difficult
to pack properly. After using the packer
the ground should be disced thoroughly;
this will aid in packing it, and at the
same time, cut up the sod and clods on
the surface.
