122 Extracts from the Journals. [Jan., 



PLANTING THE CRANBERRY. 



In its wild or natural state, the cranberry is found in wet situa- 

 tions; in boggy grounds, in damp sandy lands, and on the low 

 margins of ponds and streams. It will live and grow in compar- 

 atively dry soils; but it will not bear fruit without its roots are 

 immersed in water at all seasons of the year. 



Soil and Situation. — The first object of the cultivator should 

 be to select the ground for his cranberry yard. Every wet situa- 

 tion is not suitable. The soil must either be sand, mud, peat, or 

 a mixture of these. There must be an abundant supply of water 

 at all seasons of the year. If the ground is so situated that it 

 can be flooded during the winter and spring, it is better, but it is 

 not indispensable to success. The ground must be saturated with 

 water, either from springs, running streams, or the drainings from 

 high land. On the low sandy margins of ponds the water is not 

 much affected by the season, a sufficient supply of moisture will 

 ascend, because the little spaces between the grains of sand act 

 as so many capillary tubes for the ascent of the water; but when 

 the margin is compact earth or unmixed peat, the dampness will 

 not on that principle rise to the surface. In a selection of a situ- 

 ation for his cranberry yard, the cultivator must observe first, 

 whether the soil is of a loose, porous character, easily permeable 

 to water; and second, whether there will be an abundant supply 

 of water in the dryest seasons. If either of these two requisites 

 is wanting, it will be useless for him to attempt the cultivation of 

 the cranberry. 



Planting and Culture. — In boggy grounds it is advisable to re- 

 tain the top sod, and cover the surface w'ith beach sand if it can 

 be easily procured ; if not, with any sand that does not contain 

 loam or surface soil. Till recently the common method of setting 

 out the vines was, after the bog was covered with sand, it was 

 marked off in parallel rows, like a corn field, and sods of vines 

 set from three to four feet apart each way. The usual method 

 now is, to set in drills about two feet apart. The vines are sep- 

 arated, and only two or three upright stalks are set together, and 

 are placed from six to twelve inches apart lengthwise of the drill. 

 On w^et barren sandy land the expense of setting out the vines is 

 much less than on bogs. 



Cuttings from any part of the stem will strike root, and may 

 be used where it is difficult or expensive to procure a sufficient 

 quantity with roots. Where vines cannot be procured cranberries 

 may be sown. It is not certain but that sowing will ultimately 

 prove the cheapest and most expeditious method. We know of 



