APRIL. , 



ing, when there is a clear space to cut, is trifling, 

 and the succeeding cleaning which the potatoes re- 

 ceive after they are up, is performed at a much less 

 expence on account of this operation, and at the 

 same time in a more effectual manner. 



But the cheapest and most effective method of 

 performing this necessary operation is by a large 

 shim, which cuts three or four feet of surface. 

 Far this purpose, there should he a small broad 

 wheel at each end of the beam, to regulate the 

 depth. The work is confined to the surface, the 

 intention of it being merely to cut up weeds and to 

 loosen the earth, which rain and succeeding Sun- 

 #hine may have encrusted. The operation is of 

 great importance, and will lessen the expence of 

 the following hoeings. 



BREADTH PLANTED. 



Before a farmer determines what breadth or 

 number of acres he will plant with potatoes, he 

 should consider several circumstances ; as the num- 

 ber of acres of carrots lie has sown ; for if his soil 

 be suitable to that crop, they are greatly to be 

 preferred to this root, being cheaper, not requir- 

 ing dung, and being applicable to all' the uses to 

 which potatoes are applicable. They do not at all 

 impoverish the land, whereas potatoes scourge it, 

 if the expression be permitted, more than any other 

 crop the farmer puts in. These are very material 

 motives to influence a preference. But if the soil will 

 suit carrots, then it will be necessary to plant 



so 



