CULTIVATION OF FRUIT 461 



of three weeks or so, when the flower spikes commence to push forth, 

 the plants must be placed near to the roof (that is to say, within 12 or 

 1 8 inches) of whatever structure is at hand. If none other than a cold 

 frame is available, this will answer the purpose well, although the fruits 

 will naturally not be ripe as soon as in a heated glasshouse. When 

 the plants are first placed in the cold pit, if it is intended to remove 

 them in a few weeks' time, they may be plunged close together. If, 

 however, they are to remain there to fruit, a distance of several inches 

 between each plant must be allowed. A mild hot-bed is of immense 

 advantage for starting early Strawberries, for by first gently exciting the 

 roots into action the plant is made to produce better foliage and 

 stronger flower spikes. Syringe the plants daily once or more, accord- 

 ing to the weather, giving a little air in the morning; close the pit 

 early in the afternoon, and syringe the plants at the same time. When 

 the flowers begin to open, keep the atmosphere of the house dry, and 

 admit plenty of air ; such conditions facilitate the formation of the 

 embryo fruits, and must be maintained until these are properly formed. 

 When six or seven fruits " set " upon each plant, the pit or house 

 should again be kept warm and moist, to encourage the former to 

 grow as quickly as possible. Close the house quite early in the after- 

 noon, to raise the temperature, syringing the plants at the same time to 

 create a moist, genial atmosphere. After developing for a week or 

 more, the fruits gradually become white, and soon afterwards change 

 to the normal red colour. Discontinue syringing when the red colour 

 is noticeable, for the fruits then are softening, and if wetted, will 

 probably decay. Always endeavour to assist the fruits after they are 

 " set/ 3 by giving stimulants to the plants in some form or other. A 

 little guano may be sprinkled upon the surface of the soil and the 

 latter disturbed with a small pointed stick (this allows the guano to 

 enter the soil more easily), or weak liquid manure may be given about 

 twice a week. To ensure well-flavoured fruits, more air and a dry 

 atmosphere are essential when the ripening stage approaches, foretold 

 by the change in colour. These various changes in the conditions of 

 the house where Strawberries are grown must not, of course, be 

 effected suddenly. The air must be gradually increased daily, as the 

 flowers open, until by the time all have expanded, the house is quite 

 cool. The same method should be adopted when the fruits commence 

 to change colour. 



Varieties for Outdoor Culture. Many varieties are in cultiva- 

 tion ; some good, others indifferent. 



The following are six of the best for a small garden : 



Royal Sovereign : a large, handsome, bright scarlet fruit, of good 



flavour. The plant bears well and ripens early. 

 La Grosse Sucrte : this is large, dark red, of fine flavour, good 



constitution, and early. This variety and Royal Sovereign 



are the kinds for small growers. 

 The Bedford : a mid-season variety of robust habit, very free 



bearing, and roundish fruits of good flavour. 



