fodder-plants

Updated: June 9, 2025

This result is probably attributable rather to the scanty development of rational mechanics than to the obstinate clinging of the farmers to use and wont; for mere kindly attachment to the system of tillage transmitted with the patrimonial soil was far from influencing the practical Italian, and obvious improvements in agriculture, such as the cultivation of fodder-plants and the irrigation of meadows, may have been early adopted from neighbouring peoples or independently developed Roman literature itself in fact began with the discussion of the theory of agriculture.

Theodor Mommsen - The History of Rome, Book I : The Period Anterior to the Abolition of the Monarchy

This result is probably attributable rather to the scanty development of rational mechanics than to the obstinate clinging of the farmers to use and wont; for mere kindly attachment to the system of tillage transmitted with the patrimonial soil was far from influencing the practical Italian, and obvious improvements in agriculture, such as the cultivation of fodder-plants and the irrigation of meadows, may have been early adopted from neighbouring peoples or independently developed Roman literature itself in fact began with the discussion of the theory of agriculture.

Theodor Mommsen - The History of Rome (Volumes 1-5)