30 TEACHING SCIENCE IN THE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

 ida", (Bulletin Number 28) from the State Depart-
 ment of Agriculture.
 (8) 4-II. Pastures
 Since much of Florida's land is used for grazing, a
 study of pasture land might prove interesting and valu-
 able for students. Florida pastures are still largely
 unimproved, consisting of wire, broom, and carpet
 grasses. About ten or more acres are needed to graze
 one cow, and then the grasses last only for the season,
 becoming tough and unpalatable in just a few months.
 In the last ten years Florida has taken the greatest
 strides toward developing into a scientific cow coun-
 try. During that time much land has been improved
 and fenced, providing grazing land for several cattle
 where previously one barely survived. Pupils might
 study the different soils, preparation of the soils, meth-
 ods used to improve pastures, new grasses, and when
 and how to plant.
 Information can be obtained from the State Depart-
 ment of Agriculture, Bulletin Number 108, "Better
 Pastures for Florida."
 (9) 4-VI. Ramie
 The tall straight stalk of the ramie plant can be used
 in new and interesting products. It is a perennial and
 once planted in the proper environment, it will produce
 a cutting at least every three months for many years.
 It is a warm weather plant and can be planted only
 where water control has been provided (canals, farm
 ditches, etc.) Ramie does well on somewhat acid soil,
 but the soil should be fertile (highly nitrogenous).
 These requirements can easily be met in the Florida
 Everglades where many acres are being planted. The
 fibre of ramie can be spun, knitted and woven on tex-
 tile machinery. It is of special importance in making
 marine cordage because of its resistance to mildew, rot
 and smoke stack gases, also its high strength when
 wet and its freedom from shrinkage. It can be used
 in making fish lines and nets, twine, and rope. The
 strength of the fibre makes it useful in making towels,
 upholstery, draperies, auto seat covers, and covers for
 arm rests.
 Ramie yields a valuable by-product known as ramie
 meal which is a high grade cattle and poultry feed rich
 in protein and carotene. Carotene is an important
 source of vitamin A, which promotes the growth of