Formation of a Gaeden. 41 



III. 



FORMATION OF A GARDEN. 



Nothing conduces more to the successful completion of any piece of work than a good begin- 

 ning. — A. Nanne. 



I.-SITUATION". 



S it is desirable, if not absolutely necessary, 

 ' that the garden should be placed near the 

 house, the situation of which must be de- 

 termined, in part, at least, by independent 

 considerations, our range for the selection 

 of a plot is generally quite limited. But it 

 is well to know what kind of a situation is best, that 

 we may exercise understandingly any liberty of choice 

 that may be allowed us. 



For early crops a southeastern exposure, with a slight 

 inclination, is best, as it receives the full benefit of the 

 morning sun. If sheltered on the north and northwest by 

 higher grounds or by trees or high walls, so much the better. 

 In warm climates, however, a northwestern exposure is better 

 for many garden crops. 



In selecting a situation for a garden, reference should also be 

 had to soil. If this be originally good, the expense of making 

 it so, artificially, will be saved, and only ordinary manuring 

 required. Diversity of soils and exposures are also desirable 

 combinations of advantages. Proximity to water is important, 

 but very low grounds are, if possible, to be avoided. 



II.-SIZE AND SHAPE. 



The size of a garden will naturally depend mainly upon the 

 wants, tastes, and means of its owner. An acre is not too 

 much, but one half or even one fourth of an acre, weU ma- 



