CULTURE OF THE GRAPE. 45 



homogeneous, and the nearest approach to a seedling. 

 Roots are also known to form more readily, the nearer 

 we approach to an eye ; the deposit of cambium being 

 greater near the eye than in other parts of the plant. 

 The theory is correct ; but it is found in practice that the 

 eyes are much more liable to be displaced, and to suffer 

 from changes in heat and moisture, as the greater part of 

 the cutting necessarily lies nearer the surface. ' In my 

 opinion, the form in fig. 5 cannot be improved. 



These cuttings, being made in winter, may be put away 

 in boxes of moderately dry loam, the loam being well 

 mixed among the cuttings. Place the boxes in a cold 

 cellar, and let them rest until March or April. If the 

 right degree of heat (from thirty-five to forty-five de- 

 grees) and of moisture (very slight, but not too dry) are 

 maintained, the process of callousing and preparation will 

 go on slowly, but naturally and surely, and the time in 

 the propagating-house will be diminished one-half. For 

 the ready and certain development of roots, it will now 

 be necessaiy that they be put in a condition to receive a 

 gentle and steady bottom-heat. There are two methods 

 of obtaining this, first by hot-beds; and secondly by 

 fire-heat, generally in connection with water-pipes or 

 tanks. 



