64 MARKET GARDENING 



of 150 pounds of nitrate of soda may be made with 

 benefit after the plants have been set three to five 

 weeks. 



V. BRUSSELS SPROUTS 



Brussels sprouts require about the same treatment as 

 do cabbage. They require a somewhat longer period for 

 development than is required for late cabbage and the plants 

 should be set in the field at least ten days earlier than the 

 late crop of cabbage. Brussels sprouts are a hardy crop and 

 the main cutting does not occur until late in the fall. In 

 some localities the cutting continues throughout the winter. 



The little heads develop in the axils of the leaves and the 

 crop is gathered as it matures, several cuttings being had 

 from each plant. The lower leaves should be broken or cut 

 off as the heads develop. When the climate is severe the 

 plants may be lifted and planted in loam or sand in cellars. 

 Such a practice is not of general use but is confined to small 

 crops or for family use. 



The plants should be set the same distances as for 

 cabbage, the ground being rich in quickly available plant 

 food. The sprouts are ready for cutting as soon as of proper 

 size. They are usually marketed in small baskets such as 

 strawberry baskets. The top layer should be carefully faced. 



VI. CAULIFLOWER 



Soils. Cauliflower can be grown sucessfully on a 

 variety of soils. It does best on rather heavy, clayey soils, 

 and attains to its highest development in such soils, par- 

 ticularly if planted near a large body of water. Low lands 

 bordering lakes or the ocean, are very favorable locations 

 for growing cauliflower. 



