VEGETABLE GROWING IN NEW SOUTH WALES. 



too close produces lanky plants. The thinning may be done when the plants 

 are in the first rough leaf by pricking out into other prepared seed boxes or 

 pots. 



The watering of seedlings in the hot -bed requires careful judgment. The 

 mistake most commonly made, especially during the early stages, is the 

 application of too much water. It is most important that air should be 

 admitted throughout the day by lifting the sash sufficiently high to allow the 

 necessary ventilation. During windy weather very little opening of the sash 

 is needed, and then only on the side opposite to the direction of the wind. 

 As the plants grow it will be necessary to hasten the hardening-off, and 

 more air should be given each day until the plants are hardy enough to be 

 removed to the cold frame, where they will remain until fit for planting in 

 the open. 



Perspective View of Glass Frame for Hot-bed. 



^ 3" >j 



. Groove here 



Section through sashes of above, showing construction. 



No doubt many suburban growers have often wondered why tomato plants 

 that looked so well when purchased from the city shop failed to grow when 

 planted out. Probably the plants were removed direct from the hot-house to 

 the shop without being subjected to.any hardening-off. 



In the tableland districts, where the temperature is colder, hot-beds are of 

 considerable use in obtaining early supplies for local requirements, though 

 it is evident that these districts cannot produce early vegetables for metro- 

 politan markets in competition with districts where the season normally 

 favours early production. 



