



CULTIVATION OF THE MULBERRY. 53 



the root of the young tree must be covered up again with 

 earth, well trampled on. The earthen wall, and the earth 

 of each square, ought to be raised about three or four inch- 

 es. In general, the roots of the plants, and small trees 

 newly planted, ought not to be shaken or agitated ; it is for 

 that reason earthen walls are made, to defend them from 

 the north wind, and to concentrate upon them the rays of 

 the sun. At the present day it often happens that when 

 the small mulberry trees are transplanted, having nothing 

 but their roots and fibres, not an inch of earth is left. But 

 it happens, when these plants are transported to a great dis- 

 tance, the wind and the sun drys up their vital moisture, 

 and when they have been planted it is seldom that they 

 grow again, or if they do, they never acquire any vigor ; 

 and then it is imputed to the nature of the soil, which is a 

 very great error. 



When a great number of plants are dug up, and which 

 are to make a long voyage before being planted, they must 

 be placed in bundles of ten each, the roots watered with 

 liquid dirt, on which a thick covering of earth must be 

 spread ; then they must be carefully enveloped' in grass or 

 reeds. Before packing them, compact and well cemented 

 white clay can be applied around the earth that covers 

 the roots. Then the plants of mulberry trees must be 

 placed in the carriage-box where they will be sheltered 

 from the wind and sun. The stalks must be covered with 

 a straw mat. 



Before replanting the mulberry trees, the square in which 

 they are going to be put, must be spaded, and manured. 

 At the time of planting them they must be watered, and af- 

 terwards cultivated according to the rules prescribed above. 



