1857.] The Currant. 169 



with it an abundant suj^ply of well-rotted manure. In planting, re- 

 move enough earth to spread the roots out in their natural position, 

 cutting off all that are bruised ; and be careful not to plant too deep. 

 Tie the plant to a small stake till it becomes established ; thin out 

 the shoots so that a round, open head will be formed ; shorten-in all 

 the remaining shoots about two-thirds of their length, and the work 

 of planting will be complete. The subsequent treatment will only 

 become difficult through neglect. An annual pruning is indispens- 

 able, which may be done during the winter, or very early in spring, 

 and which consists mainly in shortening-in the last season's growth, 

 leaving about six inches of new wood, and cutting out entirely all 

 branches that cross or interlace each other, so as to keep the head 

 well open and in good shape. Suckers must be eradicated as soon 

 as they make their appearance. Fork in some good old manure in 

 the spring, and keep the ground mellow and free from weeds. If 

 the soil is stiflF, the manure may be applied in the fall, and forked in 

 in the spring. If you have done the work thoroughly and skill- 

 fully, you may look confidently for an abundant reward. 



This article would be incomplete without a list of desirable kinds. 

 The Red and White Dutch are, on the whole, about the best, and 

 are recommended for the general crop. The Cherry is a large and 

 splendid variety, but not very productive. The White Grape is also 

 large and handsome. Large White Provence is a very large and hand- 

 some new variety. May's Victoria is late, and a good bearer, with 

 lono- bunches of fruit. Prince Albert is a fine late red variety. 

 Black Najyies and Bang Up are the best black varieties, and are 

 good for jellies. Knight's Sweet Red we grew four years before we 

 discovered that the " sweet " was produced by the liberal addition of 

 sugar. The Long-Bunched Red is a desirable variety. The list 

 might be extended, but we think the above more than enough ; they 

 are the best, so far as our experience goes. We repeat, however, 

 that the Red and White Dutch will give most satisfaction for a gen- 

 eral crop. — American Agriculturist. 



