Setting out Plants. 



107 



If the ground is so flat that water lies upon it in wet seasons, then 

 throw it up into beds with a plow, thus giving the plants a broad, level 

 surface on which to grow ; for I think the best success will generally be 

 obtained with level culture, or as near an approach to it as possible. 



Always make it a point to plant in moist, freshly stirred earth. Never 

 let the roots come in contact with dry, lumpy soil. Never plant when the 

 ground is wet and sticky, unless it be at the beginning of a rain-storm 

 which bids fair to continue for some time. If sun or wind strikes land 

 which has been recently stirred while it is too wet, the hardness of mortar 

 results. 



In spring, it is best to shorten in the roots one-third. This promotes 

 a rapid growth of new rootlets, and therefore of the plants. In the sum- 

 mer ancl fall, the young plants are not so well furnished with roots, and 

 usually it is best to leave them uncut. 



It often happens that during long transportation the roots become 

 sour, black, and even a little 

 moldy. In this case, wash 

 them in clean water from which 

 the chill has been taken. Trim 

 carefully, taking off the black- 

 ened, shriveled ends. Sprinkle 

 a couple of table-spoonfuls of 

 fine bone meal immediately 

 about the plant after setting, 

 and then water it. If the 

 weather is warm, soak the 

 ground and keep it moist until 

 there is rain. Never let a plant 

 falter or go back from lack of 

 moisture. 



How often should one water? 

 Often enough to keep the ground moist all the time, night and 

 day. There is nothing mechanical in taking care of a young plant 

 any more than in the care of a baby. Simply give it what it needs 

 until it is able to take care of itself. The plant may require a 

 little watching and attention for a few days in warm weather. If an 

 opportune storm comes, the question of growth is settled favorably at 

 once ; but if a "dry spell" ensues, be vigilant. At nine o'clock A. M., even 

 well-watered plants may begin to wilt, showing that they require shade, 

 which may be supplied by inverted flower-pots, old berry-baskets, 



