Shaping the Agricultural Landscape: Influential Writings in Eighteenth-Century Scotland and England.

Throughout the eighteenth century, there was a remarkable proliferation of agricultural literature, driven by a burgeoning interest in farming practices and rural affairs. Pamela Horn emphasises this surge, particularly in the latter half of the century, as evidenced by a rapid increase in the number of agricultural publications. Fussell's examination of English agricultural literature spanning from Jethro Tull's "Horse-hoeing Husbandry" in 1733 to the establishment of the Board of Agriculture and Internal Improvement in 1793 underscores a notable expansion in the coverage of farming, horticulture, and farriery topics. While Scotland experienced a similar trend albeit on a smaller scale, with James Donaldson remarking as early as 1697 on the availability of "many large and learned treatises on husbandry" primarily authored by English writers and published in England. Despite this, Scottish farmers had access to English agricultural works throughout the eighteenth century.

In Scotland, the progression of agricultural literature followed a distinctive trajectory. Few publications emerged until the 1730s, with a mere three in the subsequent decade, according to records by Amery and Watson. By 1743, Robert Maxwell, Secretary of the first national Scottish agricultural society, noted the scarcity of Scottish-authored books on husbandry. However, from the latter half of the 1750s onwards, there was a discernible increase in the number of publications, aligning with a similar trend observed among English authors. Notable agricultural figures such as Adam Dickson, Lord Kames, and James Anderson emerged during this period, contributing invaluable insights tailored to the specific challenges faced by Scottish farmers. This era also witnessed the emergence of journals like "The Scots Farmer," providing platforms for the exchange and dissemination of agricultural knowledge.

As the century unfolded, the diversity of agricultural literature expanded to meet the growing demand for information on various aspects of farming and rural life. Authors began to delve into the scientific principles underlying agriculture, exploring topics such as soil fertility, plant nutrition, and crop rotation. The emergence of comprehensive agricultural systems marked another significant development, with authors offering detailed accounts of agricultural practices tailored to specific regions and climates. Works like Lord Kames' "The Gentleman Farmer" provided exhaustive coverage of agricultural practices, encompassing everything from implements and livestock management to soil fertility and fertilisation methods.

Moreover, authors like David Young developed systematic approaches to agriculture, offering practical guidance through essays that addressed various aspects of farming. These writings aimed not only to inform but also to inspire innovation and improvement in agricultural methods. Authors wrote with the specific intention of filling gaps in existing agricultural literature and providing Scottish farmers with practical resources tailored to their needs and circumstances. They acknowledged the limitations of English agricultural works in addressing the unique soil and weather conditions of Scotland and sought to bridge this gap through their publications.

In summary, the proliferation of agricultural literature during the eighteenth century played a crucial role in advancing farming practices and shaping the agricultural landscape of both England and Scotland. Through their writings, authors addressed a wide range of topics, from practical farming techniques to scientific principles, contributing to the ongoing development and improvement of agricultural practices across both nations.