45 



supply of moisture, but at the same time will permit the re- 

 quisite amount of atmospheric permeation and not preclude 

 the exit of the noxious combinations which are always being 

 developed in a soil under cultivation. 



A firm yet moderately porous sub soil consisting of loam 

 will add much to the sustaining capabilities of most soils, as 

 such retains and holds available any manurial particles which 

 may descend from the surface and will while retaining an 

 adequate supply of moisture afford a free exit to all surplus 

 water. Too much porosity is however nearly as bad as too 

 great retentiveness. It is well to remember that although 

 water is not the only agent which prepares plant food for 

 assimilation, still that absorption of substances is greatly 

 facilitated by its presence. The supply must be proportion- 

 ate to requirements however, hence the value of mechanical 

 operations to assist in regulating its retention, distribution, 

 or discharge. The presence of sheet-rock or impervious 

 clay in immediate proximity to a rich soil would almost en- 

 tirely destroy all prospect of success. An intermediate sub- 

 strata of a porous formation would however go far towards 

 improving matters although not to be recommended or de- 

 pended upon. 



A Northern face affords every advantage to a good soil, 

 and is universally recommended. A Southern exposure is 

 the hottest. An Eastern slope is subject to violent alterna- 

 tions of temperature, while a Western lay with judici- 

 ous protection from the monsoon is often highly suc- 

 cessful. North West is the best medium for -all purpo- 

 ses. For all general purposes therefore a Planter will 

 have to depend on appearances a good deal in choosing land 

 and must judge of the probable sustaining properties by 

 quality and quantity of the vegetation thafc it supports. 

 An intelligent observer may also examine the class of Rock 

 that abounds in the vicinity and may form his own i 



