102 CULTURE OF THE GRAPE. 



The mechanical texture of the soil is perhaps of more 

 consequence than its chemical analysis. It should be 

 loose and friable ; limestone and silicious sand being al- 

 ways esteemed desirable elements. Limestone soils are 

 found to absorb more of the sun's heat during the day, 

 and to part with this heat much more slowly at night, 

 than is the case with vegetable soils. The same is true 

 also of silicious soils ; so that they may with propriety 

 be termed warm soils. In conclusion, we may add that 

 the vine will exist in almost any variety of soil ; that it 

 luxuriates in rich, fat lands, the growth of wood being 

 excessive, and the fruit large, well developed, but lacking 

 in quality ; and that in lighter and diyer soils the growth 

 and fruit are less, but the quality is superior, and the 

 plant is much less liable to disease. A common and rough, 

 yet in general a correct test, is found in the question, 

 whether a soil is favorable for the growth of Indian corn. 



PREPAEATION OF THE SOIL. 



Many soils well situated, and naturally adapted to the 

 grape, are yet wet and springy. It is of great impor- 

 tance that the subsoil as well as the surface should be 

 thoroughly drained. It must be determined, before plant- 



