CULTIVATION OF FRUIT 309 



devoted solely to a plantation of Gooseberries they may be planted by 

 the side of the garden walk or between Apples and Pears. It should 

 be remembered that their roots are close to the surface of the ground, 

 and if this were dug over with a spade some of the former would be 

 destroyed. Although usually planted upon open ground, Gooseberry 

 bushes may, in order to prolong their season, be trained against a 

 north wall or upon an espalier in a cool position. Unless a few are 

 required very early it is unwise to plant them against a wall facing 

 south. This position is too hot. This refers more especially to the 

 southern part of England. In the northern and midland counties 

 wall protection would be beneficial. 



Planting should be performed in the autumn, October and 

 November. Several weeks before planting prepare the ground by 

 digging, and mix with it some manure at the same time. Be sure 

 that the hole to receive the Gooseberry bush is sufficiently large for 

 the roots when spread out, and that it is slightly higher in the centre 

 than at the sides. After the roots have been fully extended and 



PU.nl -?'-- * P~ 



DISTANCE TO PLANT GOOSEBERRY BUSHES 



carefully covered over, make the soil quite firm by treading. Bush 

 plants, in the open, are planted in rows six feet apart, with a dis- 

 tance of about five feet between each plant in the row. The 

 character of each variety should be considered when making a 

 plantation ; for instance, early and late sorts must not be placed side 

 by side, nor strong growing varieties close to weak ones. In the 

 former case the work of netting is facilitated (the same nets will do 

 for both if these are kept separate) ; and in the latter the vigorous 

 bushes do not overcrowd the others, as would occur were both 

 planted indiscriminately. 



Propagation. The Gooseberry is easily increased; the best 

 method being that of taking cuttings, which are formed of a portion 

 of the growth made during the previous summer. They are taken 

 from the bush in the autumn, just as the leaves fall, and are cut 

 to about twelve or fifteen inches in length. Endeavour to select 

 straight, firm, and short- jointed wood. All the buds except those 

 within about five inches of the top of the cutting must be removed. 

 Shoots will eventually develop from these buds to form the primary 



