SEA-KAL^. 117 



and twelve apart, at any time in^ March or April (one ounce 

 of seed will be sufficient for a moderate family). If the 

 weather be dry, water it freely. In about two or three weeks 

 the plants will appear ; thin them out to an inch apart ; and 

 when they have attained more strength, thin them out to two 

 or three inches. They require no further care the first season, 

 except to hoe freely and keep clear of weeds. During Novem- 

 ber, cover the crowns of the plants with a few inches of earth. 

 Early in the following Spring, prepare a piece of rich, sandy 

 ground, well manured, about ten feet by thirty, giving it twenty- 

 five pounds of salt, and digging the ground fully fifteen inches 

 deep. Mark it out into two four-feet beds, leaving an alley 

 between. In the centre of each bed a line should be drawn, 

 where the strongest plants, after being carefully taken up, are 

 to be planted at two feet apart, taking care that the crown of 

 the plant is set two inches below the surface of the bed, to 

 allow for the future rising of the crowns, which they are in- 

 clined to do every year ; they will, if judiciously managed, con- 

 tinue in perfection twelve or fifteen years. Within six inches 

 of the edge of each bed, plant other rows in the same manner ; 

 thus each bed will contain about forty-five plants. If the sea- 

 son proves very dry, water occasionally, frequently stir the 

 eart]\ and constantly destroy weeds. Do not allow any of 

 the plants to go to seed, which will cause them to grow stronger 

 for the required purpose. Particularly for forcing under pots 

 this is the most general method, and one which will bring this 

 vegetable to perfection. Its season will be from Christmas to 

 April, if the following process is strictly adhered to : 



When the number of roots are determined upon for forcing, 

 clear them of all decayed leaves. Early in November, give 

 the bed two inches of well decomposed dung ; fork it in lightly, 

 which will strengthen the roots and accelerate their growth. 

 Cover the crowns of the plants three or four inches thick, with 

 any light, sandy soil, or, if convenient, pure sand. After being 

 thus finished, cover the crowns with large pots or boxes, sink- 



