The Culture of Vegetables 



virtues, but its reputation as a remedy for poison and as a preventive 

 of infectious diseases is not supported by the disciples of modern 

 chemistry. The seeds are still used for flavouring liqueurs. 



Balm (Melissa offirinalis). A perennial herb, which can be pro- 

 pagated by cuttings or grown as an annual from seed. An essential 

 oil is distilled from the leaves, but they are chiefly used, when dried, 

 for making tea for invalids, especially those suffering from fever. 

 The plant has also been used for making Balm wine. Sow in May. 



Basil, Bush (Ocymum minimum). A dwarf-growing variety, 

 used for the same purposes as the Sweet Basil. Sow in April. 



Basil, Sweet ( Ocymum Basilicum). A tender annual, originally 

 obtained from India, and one of the most popular of the flavouring 

 Herbs. Seeds should be sown in February or March in gentle heat. 

 When large enough the seedlings must be pricked off into boxes until 

 they are ready for transferring to a rich border in June, or seed may 

 be sown in the open ground during April and May. A space of eight 

 inches between the plants in the rows will suffice, but the rows should 

 be at least a foot apart. The flower-stems must be cut as they rise, 

 and be tied in bundles for winter use. This practice will prolong the 

 life of the plant until late in the season. Many gardeners lift plants 

 in September, pot them, and so maintain a supply of fresh green leaves 

 until winter is far advanced. 



Borage (Borago offirinalis)- A native hardy plant, which thrives 

 in poor, stony soil. The flowers are used for flavouring purposes, 

 especially for claret-cup. Borage is also a great favourite with bee- 

 masters. Sow in April or May in good loam, and thin to fifteen or 

 eighteen inches apart. The rows should be eighteen or twenty-four 

 inches asunder, for the plant is tall, and strong in growth. 



Chervil, Curled (Antkriscus Cerefolium). Used for salads, 

 garnishing, and culinary purposes. To secure a continuous supply of 

 leaves small successional sowings are necessary, and frequent watering 

 in dry weather will prevent the plants from being spoiled by throwing 

 up seed-stems. 



Chives (Allium Schxnoprasum). A mild substitute for the Onion 

 in salads and soups. The plant is a native of Britain, and will grow 

 freely in any ordinary garden soil. Propagation is effected by division 

 of the roots either in spring or autumn. The clumps should be cut 

 regularly in succession whether wanted or not, with the object of 

 maintaining a continuous growth of young and tender shoots. At 

 intervals of four years it will be necessary to lift, divide, and replant 

 the roots on fresh ground. 



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