SOIL -MULCH 9 



atmosphere. A dry surface means that little 

 evaporation is taking place. A finely raked bed 

 is dry on top ; but the footprints of the cat re- 

 main moist for days, for the animal packed the 



2. Ideal preparation of land. 



soil wherever it stepped and a capillary con- 

 nection was established with the water reservoir 

 beneath. Gardeners advise firming the earth 

 over newly planted seeds to hasten germination. 

 This is essential in dry times; but what we gain 



