The Hotbed and Cold-Frame 123 



box lid. Then nail a few narrow slats across for 

 support. Over this tack new unbleached muslin. 

 Use plenty of tacks and stretch the muslin as 

 tightly as possible. Then apply a coat of melted 

 paraffin to the entire surface. Parafine can be 

 kept in a liquid state as long as the receptacle 

 containing it stands in a kettle of hot water. The 

 brush used for the purpose must be dipped in 

 boiling water before the work begins. When 

 there is the prospect of a snowstorm, an armful of 

 straw thrown over the sash will prevent the mus- 

 lin from sagging. These frames are cheap and 

 can be stored away in summer for the next year's 

 use. 



Hotbeds should be uncovered during the day in 

 April, provided the weather is the usual April 

 weather, so the plants may become accustomed to 

 outdoor life. They should be covered at night, 

 however, as at this season a sudden drop in the 

 temperature is likely to occur any night. 



Hotbeds should be watered on bright days and 

 only in the morning. Watering at night may cause 

 the plants to take cold. 



The hotbeds should have ventilation on bright days 

 as soon as the weather moderates, and by raising 



