1 78 VEGETABLES FOR EXHIBITION 



together, should be placed over the paper collars, and 

 these secured in position by a small quantity of earth. 

 Later on add similar pieces of zinc, placing them on 

 the top of the first one and adding more soil. Keep 

 the plants well watered still, and at every third appli- 

 cation apply liquid manure. Gradually earth up until 

 the top of the zinc collar is almost reached, but ex- 

 treme care should be taken that not even the slightest 

 particle of soil finds its way to the heart of the plant 

 or this will wash down and do much to mar the ap- 

 pearance of the specimens. When lifting Leeks, first 

 carefully remove the soil with a spade, so that they are 

 not bruised or injured. Withdraw the pieces of zinc 

 by holding the leaves with one hand and drawing the 

 cylinders over the top with the other. Then lift with 

 a fork with as many roots as possible. Tie the foliage 

 in two or three places with raffia to prevent the leaves 

 splitting, and wash thoroughly, carefully removing only 

 the outer skins. Let them drain head downwards and 

 keep covered with a clean linen cloth until ready for 

 packing. Tie a narrow piece of white tape round at 

 the top of the blanched part, when they should be care- 

 fully wrapped up in soft white paper. Leeks are pre- 

 sented on the exhibition stage in many ways, but they 

 are best on a black varnished board and in an almost 

 upright position. 



ONIONS. 



Few vegetables, especially from an exhibition point 

 of view, have been more improved during the last 



