164 CULTURE OF THE GRAPE. 



ashes, bones, and lime were not recommended to be 

 used to any considerable extent. This was not be- 

 cause the importance of these fertilizers was underrated 

 or forgotten. Indeed, they may be called the specifics 

 for the grape; but they are most economically held as 

 a reserve-force, and can easily be applied as a top- 

 dressing, the virtues of which will soon penetrate into 

 the soil. In the chapter upon Manures, special directions 

 will.be found for the application of these fertilizers. 



THIRD YEAE OF THE VINEYARD. 



This is the year of results. The vines, if well man- 

 aged, will bear a two-thirds crop ; the fruit being equal in 

 size, and perhaps superior, to any which will come after. 

 It is the first-fruits of a virgin soil, and of most vigorous 

 new wood. We must be the more cautious not to over- 

 strain, and must so feed and prune and check as to make 

 our vine a permanent institution. Uncover the vines 

 early in the spring, as directed for the previous year. 

 The spiral cane may be allowed to lie on the ground until 

 the eyes are pushing strongly. Its horizontal position 

 will encourage the eyes to break from the base to the 

 top. When these have fairly started, but before growth, 



