THE STRAWBERRY. 207 



They are sometimes left in rows and only a portion of 

 the runners allowed to take root. 



Whatever system of cultivation is adopted, abundant 

 nutriment and moisture are indispensable. As a means 

 of protection during winter in cold climates, and at the 

 same time for the purpose of retaining moisture, mulch- 

 ing is resorted to. Siich material as hay, straw or pine 

 leaves is used. A covering an inch or two deep put on in 

 the fall prevents the freezing and thawing, by which the 

 plants are often raised out of the ground and die in con- 

 sequence. The mulch is sometimes Isft on till fruiting 

 is over. If the ground becomes hard, the mulch shoukl 

 be removed and a good stirring given before the blos- 

 soms are set. It can then be replaced to remain till fruit- 

 ing is over, as a protection to the crops. By some, the 

 mulch is retained during the summer; others prefer 

 clean cultivation after fruiting. A coating of well rotted 

 manure or compost spread over the vines acts as an ex- 

 cellent mulch and fertilizer. 



Cotton seed applied in the fall and forked in lightl}'- 

 in the spring enriches the ground and protects the plants 

 during winter. 



The crowns of the plants must not be smothered by too 

 deep covering. Strawberry beds or plantations should 

 be renewed every few years. This is sometimes done by 

 letting the runners take root in the middles and plowing 

 up the old vines. The season of the strawberry can be 

 very much prolonged by planting the latest and earliest 

 kinds in northern and southern exposures, respectively. 



LIST OF VARIETIES. 

 BIDWELL. 

 Medium to large, bright crimson ; flesh red, firm, juicy 

 subacid, rich, very vigorous, with light, green leaves, 

 productive, and continues long in bearing. 

 CHARLES DOWNING. 

 Large, deep scarlet ; flesh sweet, luscious ; plant vig- 

 orous and very productive. 



