308 CULTURE OF THE GRAPE. 



crocks used for drainage. Kept in a warm, close house, 

 and showered frequently, the vines will grow with 

 surprising rapidity. In order to give strength to the 

 cane, it may be desirable to check the leading shoot if it 

 is growing too rapidly. The leading lateral-eye will then 

 break, giving a more stocky cane and stronger foliage. In 

 June, it will be necessary to shift into the fruiting-pot. 

 This is called the twelve-inch size, and has four or more 

 large holes at the bottom, through which the roots are 

 hereafter to run. The same compost is used as for the 

 previous shifting, it being rammed into the pot very 

 firmly with a dibble. In consequence of this firm pack- 

 ing, there is much less liability to fluctuation in the 

 moisture of the soil. When the canes have attained 

 six feet in length, they should be stopped, and the later- 

 als allowed to develop evenly to a length of two or three 

 leaves. In September, give a plenty of air, withhold 

 water, and harden the wood as thoroughly as possible. 

 By observing these simple conditions, there is no difficulty 

 in obtaining strong fruiting-canes the first season. About 

 the 1st of October the laterals may be cut away, and the 

 vines kept dry for a month or more. Up to this time, the 

 space occupied will have been only about one-third of 

 that which is required for fruiting-vines. In November, the 



