LOSS OF SEED FROM SHATTERING.

From one-fifth to three-fourths of the total seed yield of sweet clover is lost from shattering. The percentage of the loss which occurs before harvesting will depend largely on the time the crop is cut. Much seed may be lost if harvesting is delayed for only a few days, and many fields have been observed in which at least 90 per cent of the seed had shattered in less then two weeks after the time the plants should have been cut.

The percentage of seed which is lost in harvesting will depend largely upon the manner of handling the crop. The binder or header may be equipped at a small cost, so that much of the seed which ordinarily is lost while cutting may be saved. Much shattered seed will be saved by using wagons with tight platforms or platforms covered with canvas. All unnecessary handling should be avoided.

Shattering may be reduced to a minimum by cutting the plants when they are damp from rain or dew. It is the practice in some regions to cut in the early morning or late evening, but this procedure will apply only to small acreages, since it is necessary to cut the crop as soon as possible when it reaches the proper stage for harvesting. It is a good practice to cut sweet clover at night, as the plants usually are damp at that time.