CABBAGE. 67 



field. If there is any difference between them on this 

 score, the Alpha takes the lead, coming in a few days 

 earlier. In leaf, in point of color and substance it 

 is similar to the Wakefield. In solidity of head it 

 compares favorably with the Danish Ball Head ; it is 

 also sure to head, and, whether large or small, the 

 heads are intensely hard, even when not more than 

 three inches in diameter. The heads have but few 

 outer leaves, so that the plants can be set even closer 

 than the Wakefield; they do well one foot apart in 

 the row. 



Fig. 8 The Alpha. 



In habit of growth its individuality is shown 

 to the best advantage. In our trial grounds we had 

 heads eight inches in diameter, and not more than 

 seven inches above the ground, while in the field, 

 where they were planted still closer, they were quite 

 as dwarf, and the size of the heads is from five to 

 eight inches in diameter. (Fig. 8.) 



For cold slaw it is one of the best we have ever 

 known, being of fine texture, tender, and of good 

 flavor, while for boiling it is all that can be desired. 



