THE COUNTRY HOME [chapter 



knowing what not to grow, as well as what to grow 

 — what to drop out of culture in our gardens as well 

 as out of our vineyards and orchards. Egg plants 

 are much relished at my table, but I have never 

 succeeded in growing them without so much trou- 

 ble that I prefer to buy. A few peppers I would 

 have for their beauty, even if I did not desire to use 

 them. I do not say to an enthusiast, who has right 

 soil and enough time. Do not undertake to grow a 

 row of celery or a plot of onions ; only this, Do not 

 undertake it unless you have right soil and plenty 

 of time. 



The three essentials of a country garden are, in 

 succession, sweet corn, string beans — with shell 

 beans — and green peas. This is the trinity of table 

 luxury. People who live in cities rarely ever taste 

 any of these in their choicest varieties and fresh 

 from the field. I would go to the country to live, 

 if for nothing else, to find out what corn, peas, and 

 beans can be at their best. They are not only the 

 three most delicious, but the three most valuable 

 vegetables for food. To secure them in succession, 

 plant as early as possible in April, and then plant 

 successively until the middle of June. Late-planted 

 peas will almost always mildew, and corn cannot 



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