TOMATOES. 133 



method of using manure is still largely employed, it 

 can be used only near large cities where fresh manure 

 can be obtained in large quantities. 



COLD FRAMES. 



In preparing the soil for the cold frame, we should 

 follow the directions given for the preparation of the 

 soil in hot-beds. It should, however, be made six 

 inches deep. If the cold frame is set on a clay soil, it 

 will be necessary to trench it about so as to allow the 

 water to drain off rapidly. In the matter of protec- 

 tion and location, the cold frame and hot- bed are very 

 similar. 



The cold frame will be found profitable in that por- 

 tion where the coldest part of the winter does not go 

 below 24 F. If, however, we have an occasional 

 winter that gets colder than this, we can make prepa- 

 rations for it. The plants in the cold frame can be 

 covered with litter or leaves, and the protecting cloth 

 rolled down over this ; should the cold weather con- 

 tinue for several days, there will be no danger in 

 leaving the bed in this way. 



SEED BEDS. 



In the extreme South, where the temperature rarely 

 gets to the freezing point during winter, tomatoes may 

 be planted in a seed bed. There should, however, be 

 some protection against the hot sun and against frosty 

 nights and even cold winds. A warm location should 

 be chosen. If it has not a natural wind break, one 

 may be prepared on the east, north and west sides, 

 leaving the south open. Even where the crop is 

 wanted for late fall shipments, seed beds will be found 

 useful. 



