Modern Improvements in Horticulture, 295 



combinations and varieties, from the mouldering rock down to 

 the alluvial deposite of yesterday. The best for all purposes 

 of a garden is that combination of sand and clay which is called 

 hazel loam, of such consistence as not to be adhesive by 

 any action or weather, and yet so compact as to form a bed or 

 basis of sufficient solidity for plants, of adequate depth for the 

 nature of every kind of root ; pervious to, yet not retentive 

 of water, whether from the clouds or springs ; and reposing on 

 a substratum of stone or gravel. Such soils are generally al- 

 luvial, and contain the best qualities of all others, without their 

 defects. Soils of very different character may, nevertheless, 

 be successfully used for a garden, skill and labour overcom- 

 ing many natural obstacles ; and it is always observed, that a 

 new garden, whatever the natural soil may be, is peculiarly 

 suitable for fruit-trees, and almost all other productions first 

 cultivated thereon ; so true is it, that maiden, or untried earth, 

 contains that genial vegetable pabulum so conducive to their 

 health and fertility, and which in time becomes exhausted. On 

 this fact are founded all our best established rules for alterna- 

 tions of crops, change of seed, &c. Even individual trees, 

 which are gradually sinking by decay on an old station, will re- 

 ceive new life if transplanted to another, especially if carried to 

 some distance ; so that even the local atmosphere, it seemSy as 

 well as fresh soil, is favourable to renew vegetable vigour ; and 

 old gardens, or worn-out soils, can only be continued productive 

 by frequent supplies of fresh earth or manures^ and occasional 

 changes of trees and crops. 



Decayed vegetable substances are the only suitable habitat 

 for several kinds of plants, and are an excellent manure for all ; 

 and united with animal and some mineral substances, form the 

 chief material of composts and manures. Soils and plants 

 may be improved and assisted by liquid manures on many oc- 

 casions and in various circumstances, which do not always 

 occur to the cultivator, but which he should always avail him- 

 self of when the ordinary means are impracticable. 



Aspect and Situation. — A south, or rather two points to the 

 eastward of south, is the exposure which has been chosen as 

 most eligible for the site of a garden, for two reasons ; the 

 first, for receiving a larger share of the sun's rays, and less of 



