2l8 VEGETABLE GARDENING 



so early in the spring when the crowns are set deep, but 

 many advantages overbalance this possible disadvantage. 



After having decided upon the distance between rows, 

 an ordinary moldboard plow is used to make the trenches 

 for planting. A furrow slice is thrown on each side of 

 the furrow. It is often necessary to make two or three 

 rounds before the proper depth has been obtained. Then 

 shovels are sometimes employed to secure greater depth. 

 When trenched and ready to receive the plants, the field 

 has the appearance of having dead-furrows at frequent 

 intervals. Unless companion crops are to be grown be- 

 tween the rows, cross marks should be made so that the 

 cultivators may be used both ways. A pole with a series 

 of chains attached at the required distance is sometimes 

 used in marking, though more accurate methods are pre- 

 ferred. 



It is not best to set the plants in the bottom of a hard 

 trench. Instead, spread the roots over a slight mound 

 of fine soil and then cover the crown with 2 or 3 inches 

 of fine moist soil. The ground should be well firmed 

 over the fleshy roots. The planter may accomplish this 

 by the use of his feet as he rises and proceeds to the next 

 plant. Inexperienced growers often make the mistake 

 of covering the crowns too deeply at first, thus smother- 

 ing the small shoots before these reach the surface. No 

 more soil should be filled in the trench until the shoots 

 appear. Then soil is gradually worked in mainly by culti- 

 vation. By midsummer the furrows should be filled. 



Some writers advocate starting fields from seed sown 

 where the plants are to remain. While the system 

 possesses certain advantages, it has not met with favor 

 among extensive commercial growers. 



280. Cultivation. Following the planting of the new 

 bed or the field, tillage should begin promptly after the 

 first rain. Light raking in the furrows will be sufficient 

 tillage at first, but after the plants have started, wheel 



