194 A HOME VEGETABLE-GARDEN 



than one application of nitrogen for the fall sow- 

 ing. The plants should be sturdy enough by cold 

 weather to carry over safely. 



In mild climates, the spinach is left uncovered. 

 In a climate like that of central New York, how- 

 ever, the plants should be protected by 3 or 4 

 inches of leaves or straw. If the snow comes 

 heavily, provided the spinach has been sown in a 

 sheltered place, away from the sweep of the wind, 

 merely the snow cover is the very best protection. 



When we consider the spinach harvest, we shall 

 hope for a cool moist season. In & reallv dry year, 

 nothing seems to prevent spinach from running to 

 seed. A season with abundant sunshine and dry 

 weather is almost fatal to a good harvest of spin- 

 ach, except the very early crop. Whatever the 

 season, it is always worth the trial. The proper 

 start has been made in rich soil. Follow it up 

 with frequent surface tillage. If a dry spell 

 threatens, give the spinach row a thorough soak- 

 ing often. Do everything to bring about quick 

 growth. 



There may be difficulty with the leaf -miner and, 

 sometimes, with the flea-beetle. Usually, tobacco 

 is sufficient to keep the plants free from their 

 ravages. Keep the garden border clear of lamb's 

 quarters, on which the miners feed. Fungus dis- 

 eases do not seem to trouble the home-garden 

 spinach. It is good, however, for the promotion 

 of the plant health, to treat the spinach strip with 



