28 KITCHEN-GARDENING. 



could not possibly be matured in due season for gathering 

 before winter. 



I would here take the opportunity of proving this last posi- 

 tion, by reminding the reader that the effect of deep planting, 

 in the Peach-tree for instance, is discoverable soon after the error 

 is committed, by its fruit ripening prematurely, and this is 

 often the case for a year or two prior to its final decease, and 

 should operate as a salutary lesson against planting perennial 

 plants and trees too deep. I would urge gardeners and culti- 

 vators to consult the operations of nature in all their rural 

 pursuits ; and with a view to aid them, I subjoin the fol- 

 lowing rules, which are further illustrated under the different 

 heads : 



1. In transplanting fruit-trees, let the collar, or that part from 

 which emanate the main roots, be near the surface. A medium- 

 sized tree may be planted an inch deeper than it was in the 

 nursery bed ; and the largest should not exceed two or three 

 inches. 



2. In the cultivation of such plants as are transplanted, or 

 grown in hills or clusters, as Indian Corn, etc., keep the earth 

 loose but level around them in their early stages of growth, by 

 frequent hoeing, ploughing, or cultivating; and to promote 

 early maturity, throw a moderate portion of earth about the 

 roots and stems at the last or final dressing. 



3. In the sowing of seed, remember that IN UNITY THERE is 

 STRENGTH, and that from the germinative parts of a seed being 

 weak and diminutive, it cannot be expected to perforate 

 through the soil solitary and alone. To insure a fair chance, 

 plant your seed moderately thick, and thin out the surplus 

 plants while young. In planting seed in drills, which is the 

 most eligible plan, the size of the seed and strength of its 

 germ should be considered. Large seed, producing vigorous 

 roots, requires deeper planting than diminutive seed, producing 

 delicate roots and slender stalks. 



4. In the choice of compost for exotic or greenhouse plants, 

 imitate the native soil of each peculiar species as nearly as 



