86 THE GRAPE. 



difference now required between tliis and the Cold 

 Grapery, is, in maintaining as nearly as possible the same 

 growing temperature, which is more simply obtained when 

 the weather is genial ; and from what explanations are 

 given, it will only require a little observation on the part 

 of the cultivator to carry out these instructions. 



When the fruit begins to ripen, the front lights may be 

 opened on soft and mild days, but not otherwise, for any- 

 thing like a sudden check will injure the color, and stay 

 the carbonic chemical change which at this time is going 

 on in the fruit, by which the sugar may more or less 

 abound, according as this action is encouraged or inter- 

 cepted. It is also advisable at this exact period, that 

 the night temperature be kept very carefully up to the 

 average until the fruit is fully ripe ; a trifle of prolonged 

 firing more than pays for the small extra quantity of fuel 

 and labor, by the better sample which is thereby gained. 



If the outside borders are covered by glass or shutters 

 they will require an occasional supply of water, say three 

 or four times between the period of the fruit setting and 

 the final swelling, which may be accomplished by lifting 

 the covers, one by one, for the time being, when the wea- 

 ther is mild, and never use water which is cold for this or 

 any other purpose in grape-growing. Have a tank large 

 enough for all uses situated in some convenient part of 

 the house, and keep it filled, so that what is applied may 

 be of an equal temperature, or nearly so with the air. 



When the fruit is all well ripened, it is desirable to 

 keep a part of it for successional use, and the house may 

 now be freely ventilated during clear and warm weather, 

 but when fog, damp, or cold prevails, the air ought to be 

 only partially admitted. There is no occasion to fear mil- 

 dew in an early forced house, but no advantage is to be 

 gained by submitting the fruit, or even leaves, at this 



