98 THE POTATO. 



final results. We prefer choice, medium-sized tubers 

 planted whole. These should be selected in good time 

 before they commence to sprout, be arranged in single 

 layers on a little finely-sifted leaf -soil in suitable trays, 

 and allowed to sprout away slowly in a low temperature, 

 but, of course, proof against frost. The lighter the place 

 assigned to them the better, as then no undue waste 

 will take place previous to planting. 



Preparation of the Soil As above stated, much 

 of the soil in many parts of this country is unsuited for 

 naturally producing exhibition specimens, but we know of 

 none, if properly prepared, p,nd a* suitable mixture added, 

 that cannot be brought into such a condition that the" diffi- 

 culties may be overcome. In the first place, the site 

 should be well drained, and as open as possible. The soil, 

 too, should be well trenched during the winter or early 

 spring. A thorough good layer of long stable litter should 

 be placed in the bottom, and no attempt made to fine 

 down the surface, which should be left for the time being 

 to the influence of the weather. A good dressing of fresh 

 soot should be strewn over the land after the trenching is 

 completed, and if the soil be destitute of lime a good 

 sprinkle of this should also be given. 



Compost for Planting: This should also be got 

 in readiness during the month of February, and we know 

 of nothing better than old mushroom-bed manure and well- 

 decayed leaf-mould in equal quantities, both of which 

 should be passed through a coarse-meshed sieve. To every 

 four barrow-loads add the fourth part of a peck of slacked 

 lime and soot. The whole should be thoroughly 

 turned over several times, so that each constituent be- 

 comes thoroughly incorporated. If this can be kept in the 

 dry in an open shed till wanted, so much the better. 

 About the middle of March the planting should be pro- 

 ceeded with. It is absolutely of the greatest importance 

 that abundance of room should be provided both between 



