We are using Indian corn and sorghums of various kinds for soiling to a certain extent.  There is also some cutting and carrying of alfalfa, although most of the alfalfa is pastured.  Dates of planting depend upon the frost-free period; sometimes beginning in April, and successive planting for later growth as water may be available for irrigation.  There are places where one can see standing corn and sorghum untouched by frost as late as December 1.  In other locations the growth of these plants have to be made between May and September.  We have also winter-soiling practiced to a small extent in this State and for that purpose rye and barley sown at the beginning of the rainy season are used to some extent.

Brewer’s Grains for Cows.

Are sprouted barley grains that may be had from breweries good for milch cows?  Will it increase the milk, or will it dry up the cows?

Professor Henry, in his standard work on “Feeds and Feedings,” says:  “Fresh brewer’s grains constitute one of the best feeds for the dairy cow.  She is fond of them and they influence most favorably the flow of milk.  Fed while fresh in reasonable quantities, supplemented by bright hay or corn fodder for dry feed, the grains being kept in tight feed-boxes which can be kept clean, and with other conditions favorable to the healthfulness of the cow, no valid objection can be raised against this form of feed.  From 20 to 30 pounds of wet grains should constitute a day’s allowance.”

Feeding Pumpkins.

What is the proper way to feed pumpkins to cows?  Some say to cut them in halves; while others say they must be chopped fine enough so that the cows cannot choke on them.  Some tell me the seeds tend to dry the cows up, and should not be fed with pumpkins.

Pumpkins should be either cut in halves or broken in large fragments so that the stock can get a bite at them or else should be chopped fine, and we could never see the advantage of going to that trouble.  Cutting into medium-sized pieces is dangerous because of the temptation to swallow them whole and thus getting choked.  It is not necessary to remove the seeds.

Feeding a Family Cow.

What shall I feed family Jersey cow in addition to alfalfa hay to insure a good supply of milk?

One of the best things to feed in addition to alfalfa hay is a couple of quarts of middling or bran twice a day, with which is mixed a cup of molasses with enough water to make a nice paste.  Dried beet pulp is exceptionally good with alfalfa, if it is available, this also to be moistened before feeding.

Rolled Barley for Cows.

Will rolled barley hurt milk cows, say two light feeds a day?  Will it not do about as much good as the same amount of bran?

Certainly not and otherwise will be good if not used in excess to encourage fattening.  Bran is a better feed for milk because it has a higher protein content.

Horse Beans and Pie-melons.