BRUSSELS SPROUTS 159 



is required the ground should be deeply trenched in 

 winter and a heavy dressing of farmyard manure in- 

 corporated, leaving the surface rough until spring, 

 when as open a position as possible should be chosen. 

 Sow the seeds thinly in pans or boxes under glass at 

 the end of February or early in March. As soon as 

 possible prick out the seedlings into boxes three inches 

 apart, and later on transfer to a border outside in a 

 sheltered position. After the first pricking off damp 

 over and shade for a few days, and never allow the 

 plants to suffer for want of water. Gradually harden 

 off, and when they are about six inches high put out 

 into their permanent quarters. Then the ground 

 should be broken up and levelled. Lift with a good 

 ball of soil, which should be made firm round each one 

 when planted. Give each plant plenty of room, as 

 nothing is gained by overcrowding ; three feet should 

 be allowed between the rows and two feet six inches 

 from plant to plant, and water freely with clear water. 

 The draw hoe must be frequently used, and copious 

 supplies of sewage water given in hot, dry weather. 

 For later supplies a second sowing should be made 

 about April loth. By the end of September place a 

 stick against the most promising plants for identifica- 

 tion, also stake the selected ones to keep them upright. 

 Every ten days a teaspoonful of a good artificial manure 

 should be washed down to the roots of the selected 

 plants. When Brussel Sprouts are exhibited on their 

 stems three is generally the number. These stems 

 should have clean, firm buttons from top to bottom. 



