May 



a good bed, and then let them grow as they please. In the third 

 place, as encouragement, we feel bound to say that, as Cucumbers 

 are grown to be eaten as well as to be looked at, those from ridges 

 are less handsome than house Cucumbers, but are quite equal to 

 them in flavour. Save, therefore, that he cannot command fruit fit 

 for exhibition, the cottager may at least obtain fruit fit to eat, and in 

 this respect rival his wealthy neighbour who would not eat a ' field 

 Cucumber ' for all the world. 



Dandelion somewhat resembles the Endive, and is one of the 

 earliest and most wholesome additions to the salad-bowl. Sow now, 

 and again in June, in drills one foot asunder, and thin out the plants 

 to one foot apart in the rows. These will be ready for use in the 

 following winter and spring. 



Gourd and Pumpkin. An early show of fruit necessitates 

 raising seeds under glass for planting on prepared beds, and the 

 plants must be protected by means of lights or any other arrangement 

 that can be improvised as a defence against late frosts. Of course 

 the seeds can be sown upon the actual bed, but it is a loss of time. 

 The rapidity with which the plants grow is a sufficient indication that 

 generous feeding and copious supplies of water in dry weather are 

 imperative. 



Indian Corn is grown in this country as an ornament to our 

 gardens, and also for the green cobs which are used as a vegetable. 

 Sow early in the month on rich light soil, and in a hot season, espe- 

 cially when accompanied by moisture, there will be rapid growth. 

 The cobs to be gathered for cooking when of full size, but while 

 quite green. 



Lettuce. Sow for succession where the plants are to remain, 

 and plant out at every opportunity. To insure a quick growth, and 

 prevent the plants from running to seed, extra care in giving water 

 and shade will now be necessary after transplanting. The larger 

 Cabbage Lettuces will prove useful if sown now. 



Melon. It is not too late to grow Melons in frames, provided 

 a start can be made with strong plants. 



Pea. Sow second early dwarf sorts, and if there is any prospect 

 of a break in the supply, sow also a few rows of the earliest. It is a 

 good plan now to prepare trenches as for Celery, but less deep, and 

 sow Peas in them, as the trenches can be quickly filled with water in 

 case of dry weather, and the vigorous growth will be proof against 

 mildew. 



Savoy sown now will produce small useful hearts for winter use, 



175 



