Cultural Directions. 155 



1 8 inches apart, since we prefer to use up the crop gradually, 

 perhaps thinning at first for greens, then beginning to pull the 

 roots when yet small, and continue using them as we desire for 

 the table, thinning all the time, 

 and perhaps leaving the last of 

 the crop to attain quite a res- 

 pectable size. For a succession, 

 seed can be sown every two 

 weeks until midsummer, if 

 desired. A supply for winter 

 use may be stored in boxes, = 

 barrels or heaps in the cellar, 

 but should always be kept cov- 

 ered with sand, soil, sods, etc., 

 to prevent evaporation, and 

 consequent wilting, and shriv- 

 elling of the roots. The pitting j 

 method, as hereafter described 



for mangel wurzels, can hardly be 

 improved upon for keeping beets 

 fresh, crisp, and in best table condi- 

 tion generally, until spring. 



VARIETIES. 



Extra Early Egyptian, Early 

 Egyptian or Egyptian Turnip. 

 This and the Eclipse are now almost 

 the only kinds grown for early 

 market in many localities. Tops 

 small. Roots of a uniform deep 



, _ blood color, and of rapid growth. 



Improved Blood Turmp. ^ for forcjng 



Eclipse. This is now preferred to the Egyptian by many 

 gardeners. Flesh much lighter in color. About as early, and 

 idecidedly a good variety. 



Bastian's Early Turnip, 



Philadelphia Lentz Early Turnip, 



Blood Turnip, 



Improved Blood Turnip, 



