FOOD FROM THE GARDEN 



in the cultivating procedure. It should be 

 well understood that cultivation is essential to 

 prevent weed growth and conserve moisture. 



If watering or irrigating is necessary in dry 

 weather, it should be thoroughly done. One 

 soaking of the soil to a depth of 4 to 6 inches 

 is far more effective than frequent light sprin- 

 klings. The latter may be more harmful than 

 beneficial through reestablishing capillary move- 

 ment, permitting the escape of subsoil moisture. 

 Water should be applied under the same condi- 

 tions that apply when rain falls on cloudy 

 days or after sunset to prevent "baking" or 

 encrusting of the surface soil as well as to 

 conserve the amount of water needed. 



Meeting the Insect Problem. The sponsor 

 of a garden in which diversified vegetables are 

 grown must be prepared to meet the onslaught 

 of equally diversified insect species. While it 

 is true that insects are multiplying as to species 

 and voraciousness, it is equally true that methods 

 of control are becoming available to cope adequ- 

 ately with most of them. One unfamiliar with 

 our insect infestations will be amazed to find 

 that certain species apparently have had advance 

 notice of his intentions and are sitting about 

 the planted rows awaiting the appearance of 

 the tender shoots. 



One of the best methods of combating insects 

 is to create ideal conditions for plant growth. 



105 



