CELERY 171 



all through the growing season ; indeed, during spells of 

 dry weather it is almost impossible to supply too much. 

 Being a gross feeder manure water may be added quite 

 freely. Sewage water is preferable to any other. Soot 

 should be dusted over the plants in the early morning 

 once a week at least, and this will help to keep the 

 Celery fly in check as well as prove an excellent stimu- 

 lant. Should the Celery fly at any time prove trouble- 

 some, pick ofFall affected leaves, burn them, and at the 

 same time give extra dustings of soot. Blanching may 

 be satisfactorily carried out in from six to eight weeks, 

 but before doing so carefully remove all side growths and 

 split and decayed leaves. Give a thorough drenching 

 of water before commencing. When the growths are 

 thoroughly dry, stout brown paper bands five inches in 

 width and long enough to go round the plant should be 

 placed in position and tied moderately tight with raffia 

 in three places. Work sufficient soil round them to 

 exclude all light and air. Watering must not be discon- 

 tinued, but be given at the roots, both clear and liquid 

 manure, about every eight days. Immediately the 

 heart shows above the brown paper band add another 

 strip and work up the soil as before until a sufficient 

 length is being blanched. When completed, six inches 

 at least of the leaves must be left unpapered. It is well 

 during the blanching process to undo the material and 

 carefully examine it to make sure that no decayed leaves, 

 slugs or worms are spoiling the specimens. In warm, 

 dry weather, damp over the plants with clean water 

 from a fine rose can every morning and afternoon. 



