THE CABBAGE OR BRASSICA FAMILY 87 



bedding, press the earth firmly around the stalks. Keep 

 the hoe going between the rows, and water occasionally 

 to prevent the ground becoming hot and dry. 



Cole worts are brassicas which possess a rapid growth, 

 but which do not give the best of hearts ; they are useful 

 as winter greens. Sow in July and plant out in 

 September on ground cleared of potatoes, peas, beans, 

 etc. They should stand ten inches apart. The Rosette 

 is a good variety. 



Savoys make splendid winter greens as the leaves 

 require frosting to acquire perfection. In their case the 

 ground must be made firm by treading or the cold will 

 penetrate to the roots, which d,o not thrive when attacked 

 by frost. Perfection, Ormskirk, and Best of All are 

 varieties to be recommended. The Drumhead variety 

 grows to a good size, but is deemed too coarse by many. 



Brussels Sprouts are a species of brassica possessing 

 a lengthy stem, studded with tiny cabbage heads. 

 Cultural hints are generally similar to those set out for 

 the cabbage, but, as the period of growth is extremely 

 long, it is well to get the seeds in as early as possible. 

 In January sow under glass and keep the pan or box in a 

 light place where a temperature of between 60 to 65 

 can be maintained ; harden the seedlings during late 

 March and plant out in April. 



Later crops may be grown out of doors by sowing in a 

 bed in April and transplanting, when ready, in rows 

 three feet apart, a similar space separating each plant 

 in the rows. Transplanting is almost a necessity with 

 Brussels sprouts, as plants that have not been so treated 

 stand too high out of the ground. Every fortnight 



