NURSERIES 51 



and light than when the roof is interrupted at 

 each bed. The covering too can be placed much 

 lower when it is not necessary as it will not be 

 when each bed has its separate shading to go 

 about underneath it; and the danger of its being 

 blown down on the plants is thus avoided. Fur- 

 ther, the separate system allows the sun to reach 

 the paths between the beds, and so keeps them dry 

 and clean for use. 



A different treatment in the nursery is necessary 

 for the three plants. 



Cocoa. We have found it advisable to sow the 

 seeds fairly close together, in beds one inch deep, 

 and transplant them into pots or baskets as soon 

 as they germinate. The seeds may indeed be sown 

 in pots one in each pot in the first instance, but 

 the method of sowing first in beds is more 

 advantageous, as in the subsequent potting any 

 weak seedlings can be at once discarded. The least 

 possible check results to the plant when the potting 

 is done as soon as germination takes place and 

 before any leaves are produced. The root of the 

 young plant is then short, and if it is carefully 

 lifted with the aid of a trowel it will not be 

 damaged in the slightest. The pot should be 



