44 THE CAULIFLOWEE. 



will carry and keep better if cut when dry, but 

 on a cool day or towards evening. 



HANDLING. 



The heads must be handled with care to prevent 

 the "flower" becoming bruised or soiled in any 

 way. A bruise will turn black in a short time, the 

 same as a frosted surface, and thus injure the sale 

 of the head. The heads can be handled most 

 safely if the leaves are left on, and these had best 

 be left entire until the plants are taken to the pack- 

 ing shed; and for a near market they may even be 

 left on to advantage until the plants are ready to be 

 exposed for sale. The main object of their removal 

 is in order that the heads may be readily inspected. 



TRIMMING. 



This is often done in the field, but, as just stated^ 

 it had better be delayed until the heads are carried 

 to the place for packing. To trim them, take hold 

 of a head near the butt with one hand, holding it 

 upright against you, then with a turning motion, 

 cut clear around the head, leaving the cut ends of 

 the leaves projecting about an inch above the edge 

 of the head. This exposes as much of the head as 

 can be seen at one view, and the leaves as left pro- 

 tect the margin from bruises. The butt should be 

 cut off smooth, and there should be left about two- 

 layers of leaves 



