Ml PREFACE. 



of planting vines inside houses, being more accessible 

 for manuring the roots of them, and what is more im- 

 portant, the roots can get the full benefit of the sun 

 and air, and this is no doubt very necessary in all fruit- 

 growing, especially with stone fruit and Grapes ; for 

 Grape-growing, moisture combined with sun-heat is 

 most essential. 



I have studied for a long time the functionary con- 

 struction and the active properties of plants, especially 

 the vine, and I think I may say that I have found that 

 warmth combined with moisture at the roots are the 

 necessary conditions for well-coloured and fine fruit, 

 an abundance of oxygen among the branches being 

 likewise necessary for a good crop of fruit for the 

 coming year. On these principles I have established 

 my sharp angles and vine border-protector. 



I believe it will be found that ' The Asparagus Pit,' 

 < The Lily of the Valley and Christmas Eose Pit,' ' The 

 Gooseberry House,' < The Potato House,' 'The Pea 

 Frame,' and ' The Wall Peach Screens,' will recommend 

 themselves, and be regarded as something new, and of 

 some importance in their various capacities. The 

 method of getting large onions, and in greater numbers 

 will doubtless be a novelty with many persons. 



My method of glazing with ' clips,' will be found 

 equal if not superior to most others ; and the plans, 

 and careful estimates attached to the various arrange- 

 ments for building, glazing, and heating, will I hope 

 meet the wants of the horticultural enquirer. 



