The Delaware Gazette

Agricultural.

From the Raleigh (N. C.) Star.

Extract of a letter from a friend and Correspondent at Tarborough.

"Your publication respecting the Benni has excited the attention of your subscribers in this quarter. They are desirous of witnessing the reality of what is said about it, and have desired me to make application to you for some of the seed. I planted some of the seed last season (which were presented me by Gov. Blount, who procured them from Mr. Jefferson) but as I was from home at the proper season for saving the seed, they were lost--I believe Gen. Blount has saved some. As the Benni promises to become an important article in husbandry, it is presumed that any information respecting its culture and use will be acceptable, I therefore present you with a copy of Governor Milledge's communication on this subject, which, if you think proper, you may give a place in your Star."

DIRECTIONS

Concerning the culture and use of Benni.

As soon as you suppose the frost is over, put the seed in the ground: it will grow in almost any soil, and requires little cultivation--a small furrow made with a plough or hoe, at the distance of three and a half feet to four--plant it as you would any small garden seed, and cover it about one inch deep. It has few side roots, and those short, and when the plant advances in growth the earth should be drawn to it. The leaves falling from the stalk is the sign of the seeds being ripe. Cut off the top which bears the pods, and tie them in small bundles, placing the bundles with pods up against a fence, or pole resting on crutches. The upper pods open first; when about half the pods are open, the bundle is held over a sheet or tight floor, and with a small stick the seeds are easily threshed out. The bundles are then returned for the remaining pods to open, all of which will take place in the course of eight or ten days.