46 CULTURE OF THE GRAPE. 



HOT-BEDS. 



These are a simple and long-established method. Yet, 

 when we take into account the cost and considerable 

 waste of material of which the bed is composed, the 

 labor of making, the care and time in watching, and, in 

 addition, the cc/nsiderable risk as to results, this cannot 

 be considered an economical way for extensive propaga- 

 tion. When a propagating-house would only be used for 

 this single purpose, or when only a moderate quantity of 

 vines is wanted, the hot-bed will be a good substitute for 

 the more perfect plan of tanks. 



In order to secure a good bed, select a sheltered posi- 

 tion, the sub-soil of which is well drained ; dig a pit of 

 the length and width of the frame, and to a depth of 

 eighteen inches, the surface-soil being thrown out as a 

 bank for the sides of the bed. Fresh, well-moistened sta- 

 ble-manure should be drawn to the side of the frame, and 

 allowed to lie in a heap until the heat is well up, which 

 generally requires four or five days. Turn the heap from 

 end to end, thoroughly incorporating the coarse and the 

 line, the hot and the cold, the wet and the dry, and allow- 

 ing the excess of heat and moisture to pass off. On the 



