CULTIVATION OF FRUIT 



287 



preventing the soil becoming sour through the presence of stagnant 

 water. In a heavy, clayey soil, naturally more of this would be 

 required than in a sandy one. Wood ashes are excellent for mixing 

 in the soil of a Vine border ; they contain a large amount of potash, 

 proved by analysis to be one of the chief constituents of the Vine. 



After a good sprinkling of some trustworthy artificial manure, the 

 whole of the above ingredients must be well turned over, 'and thoroughly 

 mixed together. Then place sufficient of the prepared compost over 

 the turves to make the border of the required height, making it quite 



SECTION OF VINE BORDER 

 A, prepared soil ; B, turves ; C, drainage ; D, subsoil 



firm as it is put in by well treading it down. Finally, give a good soak- 

 ing of water, and allow a day or two to elapse before planting. 



Planting. Vines are best planted sometime during the summer, 

 when they are growing freely. If possible, do not delay planting young 

 Vines after June or July ; they are then making roots freely, and will 

 quickly take hold of the new soil. Until required for permanent plant- 

 ing, young Vines are usually cultivated in pots. Care is necessary when 

 taking them out of the latter not to break or damage the roots. Take 

 care that the hole made to receive the Vine is so large that there is a 

 clear space of twelve inches around the roots. Eemove the surface soil, 

 disengage some of the roots that will have probably become matted 

 together in the pot, remove the crocks, and spread out the former as 



