xxii PREFACE 



A seed-bed, here frequently mentioned, is a specially 

 prepared plot of ground, warm, light, "quick," well- 

 drained, and in the best possible tilth. It is used for 

 bringing young plants on rapidly. Seed-bed methods 

 should be studied in the handbooks, where also are 

 explained the methods of raising plants under glass. If 

 a gardener possesses nothing more than a small cold- 

 frame he can save himself much time and labor, and 

 can greatly hasten the maturity of many of his plants, 

 while hotbeds and a greenhouse will assist him still 

 more. 



For transplanting and picking I have given particu- 

 lar directions wherever necessary. Detailed directions 

 for transplanting must be sought in the handbooks; 

 generally it may be said: Move each plant with as 

 large a ball of earth around its roots as possible, and 

 trim off about a third of its top, or even more. Water 

 after setting (the depth may usually be a little deeper 

 than before), firm the earth well, and if the sun is very 

 strong give shade for a day or two when the sun is 

 overhead or while the plants show weakness. A light 

 dose of nitrate of soda or liquid manure after setting 

 will often help to the new start. Mulch at once, and 

 cultivate. 



The direction: "when well up? is here frequently 

 used to indicate the time when plants should be thinned 

 or transplanted. The term is a variable one, and the 

 gardener must develop his judgment in the matter. 



