222 



VEGETABLE GARDENING 



are usually 4^2 inches in diameter, weighing 1 from 2 to 3 

 pounds. Nine-inch bunches are probably most popular 

 on eastern markets. They should weigh not less than 

 2,^/2 pounds. The number of stalks to the bunch varies 

 from a dozen to two or three dozen. Eighteen shoots to 

 the bunch has been the average on one of the largest 

 places in this country. 



The bunches must be tied firmly near the top and near 

 the bottom. Strong jute and raffia have been used ex- 

 tensively, but red tape, % to ^ inch wide, is now in 

 general use, because it attracts attention and conveys the 

 idea that the product is of superior 

 quality. Figure 58 illustrates a 

 bunch tied with red tape ready for 

 market. 



Standing the bunches in shallow 

 trays of pure water, as previously 

 described (281), is often an ad- 

 vantage during the week, as well 

 as in holding over Sunday. The 

 product may be held in perfect 

 condition for several days by this 

 plan, which may also be the means 

 of avoiding a glut or of meeting a 

 special demand. The shoots soon 

 FIG. 58. ASPARAGUS take up sufficient water to make 

 BUNCHED FOR MARKET the bunches tight and they also 



increase somewhat in length. 



The crop is hauled to local markets in all sorts of pack- 

 ages. Second-hand berry crates and carriers are often 

 used for shipping. This is a mistake. The most suc- 

 cessful extensive growers use crates made for the pur- 

 pose. These are generally made to hold two or two and 

 one-half dozen bunches, and are deep enough for the 

 bunches to stand erect without injury to the tops. The 

 "Southern Crate" is 28 inches long, 22 inches wide and 9 



