SANDY SOILS 31 



wet, as this would cause it to be trodden down closer, 

 making it more uncongenial than it was before. Always 

 dig such soils in small spits, and after the cultivation is 

 complete, seize every possible opportunity to break down 

 any lumps there may be ; weather that is bright after 

 showers will be favourable to this operation, and its neglect 

 will spell comparative failure. 



It is necessary now to give some consideration to the 

 light, sandy soils common in various parts of the country. 

 They are not as suitable for Sweet Peas as are those of a 

 stronger nature, but, as it is obviously impossible for the 

 amateur to import to his garden the particular soil which 

 is more especially adapted to each individual crop, it be- 

 hoves him to do the best he can with that at command. 

 As far as Sweet Peas are concerned, correct methods of 

 procedure will bring a most generous reward even in sandy 

 soils. The conditions of success are depth of working, 

 judicious manuring, and consolidation before either sowing 

 seeds or putting out plants. The deeper the soil can be 

 cultivated, the longer it will hold moisture and plant food 

 in suspension, and, as a natural consequence, the longer 

 the plants will continue in health during the hot, summer 

 months. But no matter how deep the cultivation may be, 

 the desired results will not be obtained unless the soil is 

 thoroughly consolidated, and this must be done by repeated 

 treading prior to planting. 



