142 The Profitable Culture of Vegetables. 



this method of propagation is seldom followed, because of the 

 loss and disappointment occasioned through many of the seed- 

 lings coming poor and worthless. For this reason suckers are 

 generally used in forming a new plantation ; these are shoots 

 produced underground around the neck of the old stool, and 

 their use is the only means by which the different varieties can 

 be relied upon to come true to their proper character. 



Seed may be sown in the open in March, but it is best to sow 

 on a hot-bed in February, pot the seedlings singly, and grow 

 on in a cold frame, hardening them off so that they can be 

 planted out in April. 



When the plantation is to oe 

 formed in the customary way 

 from suckers, a batch should be 

 planted in March, and for suc- 

 cession again in May; by this 

 means, if there is already a 

 batch of established plants, a 

 supply of heads can be had for 

 six months in succession. 



Strong suckers are taken off 

 with a strong sharp knife when 

 about 9in. high, having a bit of 

 root or heel of the old stool 

 attached. These are planted 

 singly, 4in. deep, in rows, 2ft. between the plants and 4ft. 

 between the rows; or they may be set in triangular clumps of 

 three, 2ft. between each plant and 4ft. between each clump. 

 The soil should previously have been prepared by deep digging 

 and liberal manuring. After planting, the suckers should be 

 trodden in firmly, well watered, and shaded from bright sun- 

 shine until established. Afterwards the ground should be kept 

 thoroughly clean, with an open loose surface. Whilst the plants 

 are making growth a quickly-maturing catch crop may be taken 

 from the ground about them. 



The heads must be cut as soon as fully developed, whilst still 

 young and tender ; if left on the plant too long they get hard. 

 If they cannot be disposed of immediately, instead of letting 

 them remain on the plant the heads should be cut with a long 



Copyright, S. & S. 



A Good Sample 



