88 



lowed at this period, not, however, for the sake of 

 heat alone, but that through increase of temperature 

 a livelier state of atmosphere may be maintained. 

 Now, by a lively atmosphere, we mean one in which 

 there is a constant motion, or a continual ingress 

 and egress of air. Atmospheric moisture must not, 

 however, be left out of the question, for that constant 

 egress which promotes circulation or motion some- 

 what disperses the moist air, and an adequate replace- 

 ment must be provided. Let it be also remembered 

 that the stamens and pistillum of the vine are en- 

 closed in a sort of Macintosh envelope, and that at- 

 mospheric moisture, as well as heat, is necessary to 

 burst their bonds. The best advice we can give, is 

 to apply atmospheric humidity in profusion from 

 three or four o'clock p.m. until sunrise ; then, by a 

 liberal circulation of air, to disperse the accumulated 

 moisture, providing thereby for the free dispersion of 

 the pollen ; and keeping during the time a thermo- 

 meter at 70 degs. artificial heat, or as much as 80 

 degs. maximum solar heat. 



4. Thinning the Berry. — This is a process 

 requiring a nice hand, especially in forced grapes. 

 Thinning cannot be commenced too early, providing 

 a real berry can be distinguished. It is well, how- 

 ever, in shy setting kinds, to wait until they are of 

 the size of very small peas. All the interior berries 

 should be cut away, taking care to leave the extreme 

 points if beauty of bunch be desired. The distance of 



