IRRIGATION OF THE GARDEN. 257 



inch deep, or even deeper on very light, sandy soils. 

 The rows should be from sixteen to eighteen inches 

 apart. Give frequent irrigation until the roots are 

 fully formed. These wettings may be from four to 

 seven days apart, according to the natural condition of 

 the soil. Stop the irrigation as soon as the plants are 

 large enough to shade the ground, as there is then 

 danger of rotting the roots in the ground and thus 

 ruining the crop. In no instance allow the plants to 

 become flooded after they are half grown, as this 

 would surely so injure the crowns as to spoil the crop. 

 This rule must also be observed in irrigating salsify, 

 the general conditions of which are the same as those 

 of carrots. With the oyster-plant, cultivation is of 

 more value than is irrigation, and in any event make 

 it a rule not to irrigate after the plant is half grown 

 or well under way. 



Turnips. — The seed of the turnip may be sown as 

 early in the spring as the ground can be worked. For 

 fall and early winter use grow the White Dutch, for 

 winter use and early spring the White Egg. The seed 

 and turnips can be grown the same season. Finely 

 pulverized new soil is the best. Sow broadcast the 

 first of August, drag the ground with a light harrow, 

 then make irrigating furrows every six feet. Wait 

 long and patiently for the seed to germinate before 

 irrigating for that purpose. Never flood the turnip 

 ground — undersoaking is much the better. The best 

 success is the result of careful preparation and close 

 attention. 



Horseradish. — This root flourishes in deep, rich, 

 moist soil which can be kept so by an irrigation every 



