CHAPTER IV. 



SOILS AND THE MODE OF PREPARINQ 

 THEM 



IT is of importance that the nature of those soils in 

 which the cranberry will most easily grow, should be 

 considered, and known to those who intend turning 

 their attention to its culture. Many failures have re- 

 sulted, not so much from the unsuitableness of the 

 location chosen, as from the badness of the soil. It is 

 generally the case, that the best and richest soils are 

 selected, as those in which experiments ought to be 

 tried. Failures sometimes occur, not because the 

 climate or the season are unsuitable, but because the 

 soil is too rich. If the vine is planted in good alluvial 

 soil, it will do well, apparently, but it will not bear 

 fruit. Such soil will cause the plant to abound with 

 healthy foliage, and a vast quantity of runners, but no 

 fruit. Manuring is wholly out of the question. If it 

 is attempted, it will "kill the plants, or in some cases 

 make them grow rank, and they will be worse than 

 they are found to be in their native swamp. 



Clay and marl are totally unfit for cranberry col- 



(84) 



