CULTURE OF THE GRAPE. 39 



if it should so prove, I believe the process of grafting 

 will be made so certain, that it may readily be used as a 

 stock for a better kind. The chance that some lucky seed 

 may win the prize, how amply it would compensate for 

 multiplied failures ! 



As it is a long experiment to test seedlings, it is extreme 

 folly to use any but the very best seed. Select thoroughly 

 ripe and the largest berries of the best varieties. Sepa- 

 rate the seed from the pulp, and mix with double the 

 amount of sand, and set away for spring use. Freezing 

 the seed is not important to a speedy germination of the 

 seed. The only things to be guarded against are mice, 

 heat, and dryness. As early as is possible in the spring, 

 make a bed of light soil with a liberal quantity of thor- 

 oughly decomposed horse-manure, or other equally light 

 and enriching material, well incorporated to the depth of 

 two feet. Sow the seeds in drills one foot apart, and one 

 inch apart in the drill ; cover to the depth of half an inch. 

 To one accustomed to the management of cold frames, 

 sashes will be of great advantage, giving the young plants 

 a little protection and warmth, thus securing an early and 

 vigorous start. Judgment must be used in watering, giv- 

 ing air, and partially shading the tender plant from the 

 fiercest rays of the sun. As the season advances, the 



