CULTURE OF THE GRAPE. 61 



ment of the young vines. They are now in plain sight, 

 easy of access to water, to shower, and stake, and, when 

 once established, ought to be a sure crop. Stake the 

 vines as soon as they need support, and tie each one with 

 bass-string, which is the cheapest material, and least likely 

 to cut the tender shoot. As soon as the vines reach the 

 glass, the sashes may be raised a foot or more at the gut- 

 ters, thus obtaining sufficient head-room. Still later in 

 the season, the sashes may be entirely removed, giving 

 the vines all the air and sunlight in order to harden and 

 ripen them. 



Owing to the cost of potting the cuttings when taken 

 from the propagating-bed, it is to be avoided if possible. 

 If the young plants are allowed to remain in the bed four, 

 five, or six weeks, gradually diminishing the heat until 

 they are somewhat hardened, the roots being firm and 

 vigorous, they may be transferred from the bed directly 

 to the house-borders with a good degree Of success. 

 Every precaution should be taken to insure against fail- 

 ure. The house should have been previously kept close, 

 so that the borders may be well warmed by the sun; 

 shade should be at hand when necessary ; a growing heat 

 should be kept up. The difficulty will be over in a few 

 days, and a great saving will be effected, provided com- 



