3. Agriculture and the industries. ВЂ” Agriculture is at

the very foundation of all industries. Manufacturing,

Introductory 3

mining, and commerce are dependent on the products of

the soil for their existence ; indeed, the very life of man

himself would be impossible if the soil did not directly

or indirectly yield him food. The advance of civiliza-

tion and the development of industrial enterprises are

limited by the agricultural conditions of the world. Agri-

culture, instead of being a problem merely for those en-

gaged directly in its practice, is a world problem affecting

aU the activities of man. It is evident, therefore, that

it merits serious consideration.

The farm, in addition to being a place where a great

industry is conducted, is a home for those engaged in

this industry. It should, therefore, be considered not

entirely from the point of view of economic eflBciency,

but of social efficiency also, as the home of that part

of the coming generation which will probably have

most to do with the future welfare of the nation. Agri-

culture, as a consequence, has social and educational

aspects quite as important as its scientific and economic

phases.

4. Opportunities in agriculture are varied. — The most

important opportunities are those connected with the

work on the land in its various phases. Never in history

has the land called with a louder voice than at present,

for young men of intelligence, industry, and training.

There are opportunities on every hand for him who knows

how to use the forces of nature, and who can secure joy

and satisfaction in being a direct producer.

Other phases of agriculture, such as teaching it in the

schools, engaging in demonstration and experimental

work for the states and the government, and working as

an expert adviser for corporations, are assuming greater

importance every year, and offer good opportunities to

young men of ability and training.

4 The Principles of Agronomy

6. Division of agriculture. — Agriculture may be sub-

divided in many ways. It may be classed as intensive

or extensive, specialized or diversified, exploitive or

restorative, tropical or temperate; or it may be divided

according to the source of income. For instructional

purposes in agricultural colleges, it has often been divided

into three main parts: agronomy, animal husbandry,

and horticulture.

The subject of agronomy has usually included a study

of soils, field crops, and farm management. Under animal

husbandry, the various phases of the live-stock indus-

try, including dairying, have been studied. The study

of horticulture has included the production of fruits,

vegetables, and flowers.

In addition to these three applied divisions, there are

also a number of scientific divisions, such as entomology,

chemistry, and plant and animal pathology. Each of

these bears a relation to all three of the applied divisions.

It is difficult, therefore, to find a subdivision of agriculture

that is logical and at the same time entirely practical,

since the different branches are so closely interrelated.

6. Phases of agronomy. — The present volume deals

with that phase of agriculture sometimes called agronomy.

The meaning of this word is not widely known outside

of the schools, and even there it is used somewhat loosely.

It comes from two Greek words meaning " the use of

fields." At present, it is usually understood to mean the

management of the land in the production of field crops.

It is sometimes divided into three distinct phases : soils,

crops, and farm management. The term " agronomy "

may be applied to any one of these branches.

7. Scope of this book. — To give the beginner in

agricultural study a general idea of the principles of suc-

cessful production of crops, and to furnish him a basis for