JANUARY 145 



centre of each heap put one plant. As the roots extend, add more 

 soil until the heaps meet, and finally become level with the top of 

 the brickwork. This treatment will supply food as the roots de- 

 velop and help to maintain the plants in bearing for a long period. 

 Stout wires running parallel with the length of the house, a foot 

 below the glass, will carry the vines. Temperature should never fall 

 below 60 at night ; but as the season advances, if the thermometer 

 registers 90 on sunny days no harm will be done, provided the roots 

 are not dry, and the air be kept properly moist by plying the syringe. 

 On dull days one good sprinkling over the foliage will suffice, and it 

 should be done in the morning. In warm sunny weather, however, 

 two or three syringings will be beneficial ; but the work must not be 

 done so late as to risk the foliage being wet when night comes on. 

 There will be occasions when it may be advisable to avoid touching 

 the leaves with water, if there is no probability of their drying before 

 nightfall. In such a case, the moisture can be kept up by freely 

 sprinkling the floor and walls. Cucumbers cannot thrive if they 

 are dry at the roots, but although there should be no stint of water, 

 it must be given with judgment ; and it is of the utmost importance 

 that the drainage should be effectual, for stagnant water is even more 

 injurious than a dry soil. A few sticks placed in various parts of the 

 bed, and reaching down to the slates, will serve as indicators. Draw 

 and inspect them occasionally, and a pretty correct idea of the con- 

 dition of the soil will be obtained. The water should be of the same 

 temperature as the house, for if applied cold the plants will sustain 

 a serious check. In the event of the bed falling somewhat below the 

 proper temperature, the water may with advantage be a few degrees 

 higher than usual. 



HORSE-RADISH should be planted early, to insure fine roots for 

 next Christmas beef. 



LETTUCES will soon be in demand, and the early hearts will be 

 particularly precious. Sow a few sorts in pans, in frames, or on gentle 

 hot-beds, to be ready for planting out by-and-by. 



MELON. Although the Melon is a fruit, its culture naturally 

 forms part of the routine of a vegetable garden. Up to a certain 

 point it may be grown in the same house with Cucumbers ; but after 

 that point is reached, the two plants need widely different treatment. 

 Cucumbers are cut when young,, and must be grown in a warm and 

 humid atmosphere from beginning to end. Melons need warmth, 

 and at the commencement moisture also ; but the fruit has to be 

 ripened, and after it is set dry treatment becomes essential for the 



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