302 VEGETABLE GARDENING 



Dandelion is sometimes 

 blanched and used as a salad, 

 for which purpose it is much like 

 endive. While the plant is a 

 perennial, yet only one crop 

 should be harvested from each 

 sowing, since after the first cut- 

 ting many sprouts are produced 

 from each root, none of which 

 are large enough for good market 



Fig. 134. Dandelion. ^^ The ^^ ^^ ^ 



ways be plowed in before they ripen seed unless seed is to 

 be saved, to prevent its scattering and becoming a 

 nuisance. A variety called the Improved Thick-Leaved 

 is the most esteemed. 



JERUSALEM ARTICHOKE (Helianthus tuberosus) 



Description. Native of North America. A perennial. 

 Stems herbaceous, six or more feet high; roots tuberous. 

 Flowers are yellow, resembling those of the common sun- 

 flower, but comparatively small. 



Culture. For best results the artichoke requires ex- 

 ceedingly rich soil. It can be grown from the seed, although 

 this is seldom attempted, but it is customary to grow it 

 by planting the small tubers whole or cutting the large 

 tubers in the same way as potatoes. They should be 

 planted about four inches deep at twelve-inch intervals in 

 rows three feet apart. They are used chiefly for feeding 

 stock and are often harvested by turning hogs into the 

 field. They will frequently remain in the land many years 

 even if not cultivated. They are easily injured by frost 

 when not covered with earth, but in the ground they are 

 perfectly hardy. 



