268 THE GARDENER. [June 



flower comes in quicker than it can be used, it should be cut — wlien 

 scarcely so big as is desired for table— with half a foot of the stem 

 attached, the leaves cut off square with the surface of the flower, and 

 then stuck into the sand in the cool dark place. In this way they 

 keep crisp for weeks ; and for saving the late crop when frost sets in, it 

 is a plan much preferable to that of hanging them up in sheds with 

 the leaves and stumps attached ; and late in the season particularly, it 

 is surprising how long they keep in good condition. 



As to the best kinds of Cauliflower for different seasons, I think, if 

 I had to confine myself to one sort, I would choose the Walcheren. 

 For a summer variety probably the New Frogmore is preferable, inas- 

 much as it stands longer without opening or running than the Wal- 

 cheren. These two, with the Early London, are the varieties I confine 

 myself to. About fifteen or perhaps more years ago, there was a sort 

 grown about London as Myatt's Cauliflower, w^hich to my mind was 

 the best I ever saw, but have not seen it true for a good many years. 



D. Thomson. 



HINTS FOB AMATEURS.-JUNE. 



Theee will be much to do in the vegetable garden this month in the way 

 of planting out (for winter) the main crops of Kale, Broccoli, Brussels 

 Sprouts, and Savoys; also succession crops of Lettuce, Cabbage, Spin- 

 ach, and Turnips require frequent attention. Larger breadths of these 

 may now be sown and planted, as there will be less likelihood of them 

 running to seed, especially if the ground chosen is cool, and well 

 prepared with manure. Good soakings of water are also necessary if 

 the weather is dry. Surface sprinklings given frequently only dis- 

 appoint : allow good soakings when it is given, and when the surface 

 becomes dry, the hoe or steel fork should be freely used to prevent 

 cracking. Liberal mulching, when it can be applied, will give sweet, 

 crisp, and juicy produce. Before planting, let drills be drawn as for 

 Pease, which will clear away the dry soil; and when the hoe is used 

 afterwards (for cleaning as well as surface stirring), the closing in of 

 the drills will act as an " earthing-up." Two feet apart between the 

 plants, if the ground is good, will not be too much for strong kinds of 

 Kale ; and for Broccoli, 2 J feet each way may be allowed. On poor 

 sandy soil, 18 inches each way may be enough. When planting, let 

 the roots (not the necks) be firmed moderately. Dipping in a puddle 

 made with a little soot, red-lead, earth, and water, will in a great 

 measure prevent the attack of grubs, &c. Vermin are so common in 



