CHAPTER IX. 

 GARDEN LOCATION AND ARRANGEMENT. 



Several things should be considered in locating the farm gar- 

 den, for much depends upon selecting: first, the best soil for the 

 purpose the farm affords; second, situation with relation to pro- 

 tection, warmth and drainage; third, nearness to water supply for 

 irrigation; fourth, nearness to the home and protection from intru- 

 sion. It may not be possible to combine all these points in a single 

 situation, and then it may be advisable to make two locations, or, 

 in making one, to sacrifice convenience to the more imperative con- 

 ditions of exposure, soil and moisture. 



Choice of Soil. General considerations in connection with 

 soils have already been given. Of course, for ease of work as well 

 as for other considerations a rich loam should be chosen the 

 best that the ranch affords. As to grades of loam, the lighter 

 should be chosen for the winter garden because of the better nat- 

 ural drainage and warmth and the short time in which such soils 

 will take tools and seeds well after heavy rains. The heavier and 

 more retentive soil will better suit the summer garden. Sometimes 

 these two soils may be found beside each other in the same acre ; 

 sometimes the soil can be readily improved in these lines, as has 

 already been explained, or small pieces at a distance from each 

 other may be chosen if each has distinctive fitness. 



Situation and Exposure. Situation schould be considered for 

 warmth and protection as well as drainage, which has been men- 

 tioned. Though garden ground in general is most conveniently 

 worked if it has just enough grade for the slow distribution of 

 water, for winter and early spring growth an elevation out of the 

 frosts of the low grounds and into the superior heat of the southerly 

 slopes will be found of advantage. In addition to the ridge above, 

 such protection from north and northwest winds as a windbreak 

 of trees or farm buildings or a high fence will be valuable. There 

 is great difference in the safety and speed of winter vegetables on 



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