GARDENING 



173 



CHAPTER XVII. 

 GARDENING. 



In the broad sense the word horticulture is used to include 

 fruit growing, vegetable growing, the production of flowers, 

 ornamental trees and shrubs, and the uses of these in beau- 

 tiful landscape effects about lands and buildings. We have 

 already considered the subject of fruit growing. 



Vegetable Gardening. — The growing of vegetables has 

 been given the name olericulture. Farmers may grow vege- 

 tables either for home use or for market. 



Gardening is always a special line of farming, and may be 

 called intensive agriculture. Large returns are secured from 

 small areas. Several hundred dollars per acre may be ex- 

 pected from a good market garden. 



Elements of Success. — To be very successful in growing 

 good vegetables several conditions are required : 



1. The soil must be rich and well drained. 



2. It must be supplied with plenty of humus to retain 

 moisture. It should be manured heavily. 



3. Sandy loam is necessary if vegetables are to be ready 

 for early market. 



4. The soil should be plowed deep and the most thorough 

 tillage of crops practiced. 



5. The best methods for the prevention of weeds must 

 ^be practiced. Never allow weeds to scatter seed or spread 

 ;by other means in the garden. 



6. Select good varieties for the table and market, and 

 have the products ready for all seasons. 



7. Prepare produce attractively for market. 



8. Gather the best seeds from the best plants for future 

 i planting; or if seeds are purchased, get the best possible. 



Planning the Garden. — The best plan for planting the 



