Forcing Strawberries. i 5<j 



The first " shift " is into three-inch pots ; a small size, but one that en- 

 courages the young roots to seek the sides of the pot immediately. A cold 

 frame will secure a uniform temperature, and protect from excessive rain. 

 Water moderately, and keep the frame somewhat close, in order to induce 

 rapid growth. As soon as the roots become numerous, and before being 

 in the least bound, shift into a five-inch pot, packing the compost quite 

 firmly. Increase the amount of water as the plants become vigorous, and 

 give more air. The next and final shift is into an eight-inch pot, provided 

 the previous growth has been sufficiently vigorous. It is for the purpose 

 of inducing this vigor that these frequent shiftings are recommended. The 

 soil being dry when used, pack firmly, and give good drainage at the last. 

 By the first of October, the final pot should be well filled with roots, and the 

 ripening process commenced \ giving free air, and gradually withholding 

 water. It is a fine sight, equal to floral beauty, to see such plump, healthy, 

 rich green plants as may so easily, and with so much certainty, be obtained. 

 The plants may now be left to strengthen and mature, with the trifling care 

 of an occasional watering and the protection of mats when frosty nights 

 come on. Again : remember that all addition of strength gained at this 

 time is so much force in reserve. Yet the plants are by no means to be 

 excited into growth and the premature development of their blossom after 

 having filled their last pot. They must be exposed to the frosts about the 

 loth to the 2oth of November, allowing them to be thoroughly checked, 

 and vegetation perfectly suspended. Without doubt, a crop can be obtained 

 by bringing the plants into blossom and growth without the check of frosts 

 and subsequent rest ; but it will be a much less satisfactory crop : and judg- 

 ing from past results, as well as from our knowledge of Nature's laws, the 

 course cannot be recommended. The check of frosts, and a brief rest, like 

 sleep, seem to restore and re-invigorate tired Nature. 



The subsequent treatment, and also suggestions respecting different kinds 

 of houses and cheap modes for forcing, I will reserve for a future number. 



W. C. S/ror/i'-. 



Mass. *^ 



