Propagation 65 



in pieces after roots have been thrown out, but these 

 methods are seldom used. In sod ground, the tips take 

 root readily, unaided, for they work their way in among 

 the grass roots and are thus held in place until roots are 

 formed. In cultivated ground they are usually blown 

 about by the wind so much that they cannot get started. 

 For this reason it is necessary to put the tips down and 

 cover them with soil in order to secure many plants. This 

 may be done with a hoe, a spade, or any other convenient 

 implement. Better plants will be produced if the tip is 

 pointed well downward, so that the end is the deepest 

 part when covered. 



A tool hung somewhat like an adze, but with a narrower 

 blade is found useful .by some persons. Such a device 

 was first suggested by L. J. Farmer of Pulaski, New York, 

 and is used largely in planting strawberries. It is made 

 about as heavy as a good-sized hammer, so that it can be 

 readily swung in one hand. 



An implement on the plan of a spade, but with a narrow 

 blade like a pruning or weed-spud would work well except 

 on very stony ground. The blade should be strong but 

 need not be more than six or eight inches long. A cross- 

 bar on which to put the foot, for thrusting it into the soil, 

 should be provided. With such an implement, the tips 

 can be quickly fastened. It should be moved back and 

 forth slightly after entering the soil, the tip inserted, then 

 the tool thrust in again at the side and pressed toward 

 the former opening to firm the soil about the tip and hold 

 it in place. Either of these implements can be made by a 

 blacksmith. 



Plants should be propagated from young plantations if 



