190 FLORIDA FRUITS SMALL FRUITS. 



The variety of berry planted, the mode of culture, 

 amount of fertilization, supply of moisture, and time of 

 ripening all influence the result. And now let us pass on 

 to the modus operandi. 



Strawberries love moisture, not too much but enough, 

 and continuously supplied ; hence, in selecting ground for 

 their cultivation, choose always a low spot, but not by any 

 means a wet spot, or one not susceptible of drainage ; dry 

 soil on top with moisture near enough to the surface to 

 feed the down-reaching rootlets that are ever crying out 

 for "water, water, more water," is what this berry wants 

 and must have to thrive. 



A level piece of land, with clay from eighteen inches to 

 two feet below the surface, would be a good selection. 

 When shelter from the north and west winds can be pro- 

 cured, it will be found an advantage, as these are the winds 

 that whip out foliage and dry off moisture. 



If no such spot offers, a full measure of success can not 

 be had, unless artificial irrigation can be supplied, and as 

 a matter of fact, in all cases where a large acreage is 

 planted this should be given, either by means of a wind- 

 mill or ram ; this latter is comparatively inexpensive, and 

 in many locations entirely practicable ; and in other cases, 

 again, where a lake or pond is at hand, standing on more 

 elevated land than the strawberry field, a simple aqueduct 

 or pipe line would furnish all the water needed. 



The proper location selected, the next step is to clear the 

 ground thoroughly of all roots and trash, and plow, har- 

 row, and rake until it is smooth and level. Next lay off 

 the beds for the plants ; if in the field, for culture by horse 

 power, mark them three feet apart; if a small garden 

 patch only, for hand culture, eighteen inches between the 

 rows will be ample. 



Many consider the "hill" system superior to any other; 



