Agricultural History Review, Volume 36 Part 2 (1988), pp. 145–161

Using a version of a method developed by Overton, data from probate inventories are used to identify periods of increasing land productivity in early modern Hertfordshire. Some of the factors which may underlie higher crop yields are discussed. It is suggested that increasingly systematic ground preparation prior to sowing was a major factor increasing land productivity. The chronological and geographical patterns of higher yields were similar to those of recorded valuations of ground preparation. A concluding discussion investigates possible changes in patterns of farm investment. 

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