28 THE GARDENER. [Jan. 



larger than the frame, shaking and building firmly as the work pro- 

 gresses. A good bed from 4 to 5 feet high will last a long time, but to 

 last for 10 or 12 months in good order, we prefer making our beds 6 

 feet deep. Regular attention to placing linings of hot dung all round 

 the bed is of great importance in keeping the heat steady. After the 

 frame is placed, a few inches of soil may be placed over the surface of 

 the bed (we use turf, and beat firm with the back of a fork). Mounds 

 of good earth, turfy loam, and a little leaf-soil are very suitable for Cu- 

 cumbers, placed in the centre of each light ; and when the heat is right 

 (which can be ascertained by placing a thermometer in the soil, and 

 when it stands 80° or 85°) it may be considered safe to plant. A quantity 

 of soil may be kept in the frame to add to the mound as the roots find 

 their way through. Pinching out the tops of the plants will induce 

 them to throw out fresh shoots which will show fruit. Young plants 

 are raised by sowing two or three seeds in small pots, and when up, and 

 fit to handle, they are potted singly, always using the soil and water 

 in a warm state. Seeds placed singly in small pots of warm soil are 

 easily managed, without checking the plants when shifting them. Air 

 is necessary at all times, especially if the steam rises strongly from the 

 bed. Covering up from frost is necessary, but light should never 

 willingly be excluded when it can be admitted. Moisture should be 

 carefully applied to the roots : little will be required till the plants are 

 growing freely and the weather fine. A top heat of 65° to 70° is safe, 

 rising 10° or 15° with sun heat. Melons may be treated in the same 

 way, but they require heavier and firmer soil than Cucumbers. Neither 

 of these plants should crowd together, as when the stems become mat- 

 ted they are difficult to manage. 



Fruit-trees infested with moss should have as much as possible of 

 it scraped off with a blunt knife or piece of iron hoop, and the parts 

 well dusted with fresh lime, or lime-wash may be laid on with a 

 brush. If the appearance is objected to, a mixture of soot may be 

 given. The old earth from the collars of Gooseberry bushes is taken 

 aw 7 ay by some, and replaced with fresh soil, as a preventive from 

 caterpillars. Fresh planted trees requiring stakes should not be 

 neglected, as the roots would be seriously injured. Mulch carefully to 

 keep out frost. All pruning and nailing should be brought to a close 

 as soon as the weather will permit. Pears which are thin of fruit- 

 buds may remain till later in the season, when inexperienced hands 

 can prune w T ith more safety : the buds then will be swelling, and show 

 themselves. Peaches and Apricots which have been taken from the 

 walls to retard them till they are pruned should not be left to the 

 force of the wind, but be tied in bunches to the stronger wood till they 

 are to be tied up permanently. Walls should be freed from moss, or 



