17 



Another rough cheap drain, when the flow of water is not 

 great, is to set two stones upon the edges and lean them together, 

 forming a kind of an arch, and then fill up with stones around 

 and over them. This can be done rapidly and answers very 

 well. When stone is not at hand tile no doubt will answer 

 equally well. 



We have thus given a considerable space to the preparation 

 and enriching of the soil. This is the foundation of all certain 

 success and here is just where the majority fail. 



Having thoroughly prepared and drained the land, the next 

 consideration is, 



Wher\ to Plai\t. 



The strawberry is so tenacious of life that it may be trans- 

 planted with care at almost any season ; but there are times 

 which are especially favorable. In northern latitudes spring 

 undoubtedly' is preferable, while at the far south October and 

 November are the best months. 



In spring, the ground is moist, showers usually abundant, and 

 the impulse of growth is strong. At this cool season, the plants 

 do not heat, or dry out during transportation, if packed with 

 ordinary care. Land that is to be set with strawberries in spring 

 should be thoroughly prepared the fall before, if possible. Novem- 

 ber plowing is especially beneficial where the ground is inclined 

 to be at all wet or heav}''. 



The earlier they are planted the better. I make it a rule to 

 set them out as soon as the ground is dry enough to work. Of 

 course this term early is relative, and also depends upon the sea- 

 son. In 1875 little could be done in the open ground before 

 May, and yet in other years I have had excellent success with 

 plants set out in March. February is a spring month at the far 

 south, and April a winter month in high latitudes. The safe rule 

 in every region is to plant as soon as possible after the ground 

 is dry enough. There is much to be said also in favor of summer 



