FRUIT GROWING PROBLEMS 139 



Nectarines Splitting 



Q. Can you say why ray Nectarines grown under glass have split 

 badly 1G. E. H., Worcester. 



A. The cause of the Nectarines splitting is insufficient ventila- 

 tion during hot weather. Temperatures under glass rise in conse- 

 quence, causing so great an acceleration in the flow of sap as partly 

 to congest the arteries through which it flows. Hence an overflow, 

 and the consequent splitting of the fruit. Remedy : Reduce the 

 temperature by free ventilation night and day whilst the hot 

 weather lasts. You may safely let the temperature drop to 50 Fah. 

 or lower at night ; in the middle of the day, with sun heat and plenty 

 of air in the house, it may rise to 89 or 85 for a few hours. 



On Growing Cucumbers 



Q. I am anxious to be able to gather Cucumbers in April. Will 

 they need a hotbed, and when should I sow the seed ? E. J. A'., 

 Enjield. 



A. First get together suitable material for filling the pits. The 

 best material for keeping up a steady heat is that composed of 

 freshly gathered up leaves and short stable manure mixed well 

 together and turned several times in an open shed, previous to 

 filling the Cucumber pit. Sowing the seed in small pots early 

 in January is the plan usually adopted, as this ensures no check 

 in potting on. Use soil fairly damp and plunge in the hotbed, 

 giving no water until germination takes place. When the third 

 true leaf appears they may be planted out into mounds of rich soil. 

 Syringe the plants frequently with tepid water, and see that a con- 

 stant and sufficient heat is maintained. A night temperature of 

 60-65 is best, rising 10 during the day without sun heat. Keep 

 free from draughts. Cucumbers require a warm atmosphere with 

 little ventilation. 



