WORK OF FORCING. 19 



Cellar'^ shows the roots turned out of the furrow upon 

 the snow-covered ground, and trimmed ready for forc- 

 ing. 



In small areas, or where from any cause plowing out 

 would be impracticable the entire work may be neatly 

 and rapidly done with the spade. 



Setting the Plants. — For the work of setting in the 

 roots, select if possible, a time when they are frozen 

 solid, as they will be cleaner to handle and may be rolled 

 or tumbled about like rocks without fear of injury. 

 This is not material however, but greatly simplifies 

 the work.* 



Cellars will of course, vary much in size and shape ; 

 and setting in the clumps should be planned with regard 

 to the utmost convenience in caring for, and harvesting 

 the crop. If the cellar is long and narrow, one passage- 

 way through the center, extending the entire length of 

 the building will be sufficient, while a large square room 

 might require two or more parallel passageways, or one 

 extending through i^iie center the longest way, with 

 lateral paths on either side placed at convenient dis- 

 tances for picking, in order to avoid trampling on the 

 young stalks. Remembering that each clump will occupy 

 about a square foot of space and that they are set as 

 closely together as. possible, it will not be difficult to so 

 plan the position of passageways as to secure the desired 

 results. 



As the plants are set in position, loose earth should 

 be at hand for filling underneath and between the 

 clumps ; enough may be used to entirely cover the crowns 

 of the roots, or they may be left exposed and only the 



•Note.— Do not make the mistake of supposing that the roots miist be 

 in a frozen condition when placed in the cellar, that is immaterial, pro- 

 vided the freezing has actually taken place previously. It is simply a 

 matter of convenience and economy to handle the roots in a frozen con- 

 dition. 



