THE EARTH'S BOUNTY 



the earth is allowed to fall away from such 

 fragile roots. 



The plants stand in rows nine inches apart 

 each way, when the beds are completely filled, 

 which is always before the end of May in our 

 neighborhood. At this time the sun has gained 

 so much strength that the glass roof has to be 

 given a coat of whitewash to soften the glare; 

 and the frames are entirely removed from the 

 ends of the house, double mosquito netting 

 taking their place, which affords some shelter, 

 yet allows a free current of air. The ventila- 

 tors are similarly covered, for we are firmly 

 convinced that by excluding moths and other 

 winged insects, the plants are effectually pro- 

 tected against innumerable pests, such as saw- 

 fly, gall-fly, maggot, etc., all of which cause 

 trouble and jeopardize success. 



The whitewashing was neglected until after 

 the house was in use the first year, but since 

 then it has always been done before the earth 

 was put in. 



Unless the weather is very hot and dry at 

 84 



