12 VEGETABLE FORCING 



important, owing to a milder climate, and there is now 

 some evidence that greenhouses will be used more ex- 

 tensively in the Middle South in growing products for 

 northern markets. 



Relative importance of forcing crops. Lettuce un- 

 doubtedly occupies first place in commercial importance. 

 It is grown extensively as a frame crop, and is the leader 

 in nearly all large forcing establishments. The cucumber 

 ranks second and the tomato third, although the tomato 

 is more important in some sections. The radish ranks 

 fourth and cauliflower fifth. Rhubarb, asparagus, beet, 

 pepper and eggplant are grown to some extent and the 

 bean, pea, onion, muskmelon, asparagus, witloof chicory, 

 carrot, cress, mints, parsley, spinach, celery, and a few 

 other vegetables are of minor importance. 



The outlook. The outlook for vegetable forcing w r as 

 probably never better than at present. The demand for 

 high-grade vegetables is on the increase, and consumers 

 want them the year round. People are asking for the 

 best, and the best grows in forcing structures. While 

 prices are low at times, they average just as high as they 

 did several years ago. 



Growers are better able to meet southern competition. 

 Modern methods of greenhouse construction are favor- 

 able. Vegetable forcing appeals to many people because 

 the returns are so prompt. A house completed the middle 

 of October, and planted at once with strong, frame-grown 

 lettuce plants, will yield a crop for Thanksgiving and 

 two more lettuce crops before cucumbers or tomatoes are 

 planted for spring and summer market. With successful 

 management and good prices, the cost of construction is 

 soon covered, but a certain amount of conservatism on 

 the part of greenhouse vegetable growers is highly desir- 

 able. It is better not to make large extensions in the 

 ranges unless the results assure a satisfactory outlet for 

 the increased production. 



