178 VEGETABLE GARDENING. 



each foot of row. It is best to sow plenty of seed to se- 

 cure a good stand. The land should be well cultivated be- 

 tween the rows. Unleached wood ashes or some oth- 

 er fertilizer rich in potash and phosphoric acid is most 

 beneficial for this crop. Since it belongs to the legumin- 

 ous section of plants, it is a nitrogen producer and, conse- 

 quently, does not need much nitrogen in the soil. Early peas 

 as generally grown are out of the way in time to allow the 

 land to be used for late cabbage or string beans. When it is 

 desired to extend the season of table peas, successive sowings 

 should be made at intervals of two weeks, up to the tenth of 

 June. During the summer the vinei are too liable to mildew 

 to make late spring plantings successful. The pea is distinctive- 

 ly a cool weather plant and on this account, it will often do 

 well when sown in the latter part of summer for use in autumn. 



Varieties. Of the many varieties, only a few of the best , .^ 

 referred to here. For very early use, almost every seedsman 

 has a strain of smooth, round peas which he sends out under 

 his own peculiar name. The early sorts are generally derived 

 from the old Daniel O'Rourke, and among them are varieties 

 known as First and Best, Earliest of All and Improved Extra 

 Early. As a rule, these should be used for first planting only, 

 to be followed by plantings of the wrinkled sorts. 



American Wonder is a very dwarf, early, pea of unsur- 

 passed quality and very hardy for a wrinkled sort. A rich 

 soil and extra cultivation are required to get the best results 

 from it. If only one variety is to be grown, this is perhaps 

 the best to plant. 



Stratagem. Very productive and justly popular, having 

 remarkably large pods filled with rich, sweet peas. It does 

 better on light than on heavy soils. 



Yorkshire Hero. An excellent variety . 



Marrowfat. Among the most popular of the old 

 varieties. 



Champion of England. A tail growing, popular sort, 

 of best quality, that does best when supported by brush or 

 wire netting. Late. 



Telephone. Of excellent quality. Pods and seeds large. 



