82 HOW TO LIVE IN THE COUNTRY 



that I have myself originated. These are eight 

 inches long and with beans in them are three inches 

 around not quite so big without beans. 



Green peas can be had on the table until the first 

 of August with especial care till the middle of 

 that month, but not later, for very late plantings 

 will surely mildew. The earliest corn should come 

 on the table in June, and the later sorts should not 

 be exhausted before October. 



I told you how my boy George managed to grow 

 some fine melons. The center of a cornfield not 

 only hides the delicious fruit, but shelters the grow- 

 ing vines from cool nights and high winds. I have 

 since tried the plan myself successfully. But you 

 must have the hills well made, a little above level 

 and of rich compost. A spoonful of hen manure, 

 well mixed with the dirt be sure of that is ex- 

 cellent melon food. 



Growing vines require that the seeds shall not 

 be put in until the ground is warm; with me this is 

 generally about the first of June. They must start 

 quickly, grow quickly, and not at any time be checked 

 by a dry spell. If there is not abundant rain, take 

 liquid from the barnyard manure tank, dilute it two 

 thirds, and pour a quart into a hole dug by the side 

 of the hill. 



Now just here let me stop to explain the philoso- 

 phy of watering. As generally applied, water is as 

 likely to do damage as service. If sprinkled on with 

 a hose it is almost certain to cause disaster. This is 



