JAN.j STRAWBERRIES. 331 



following spring, any flowers that made their ap- 

 pearance were pinched off; and throughout the 

 summer, the plants were occasionally refreshed with 

 water, and kept clear from weeds. In autumn, the 

 leaves were again dressed off as before ; and when 

 taken up for forcing, the pots were dressed and 

 fresh earthed at top, previous to being placed in the 

 forcing-house. 



This method of preparing the plants is no doubt 

 more troublesome than either of the above men- 

 tioned ; but the plants, by being completely esta- 

 blished, and of a proper age, produce better crops. 

 I have tried all the three ways repeatedly, and pre- 

 fer the last. The proper soil in which to force 

 strawberries, and the kinds for forcing, have been 

 spoken of at pages 290, and 291. 



OF HOT-BEDS. 



Under this head I propose to treat of forcing As- 

 paragus, Cucumbers, and Melons ; these articles be- 

 ing generally, and very successfully, forced by dung- 

 heat. In order to prevent repetitions, I shall here 

 drop a few hints on the formation of dung hot- 

 beds. 



They should never be sunk, unless the area in 

 which they are placed be rendered perfectly dry, 

 and be paved ; nor should they be built against the 

 earth, but against retaining walls of brick, or of 

 stone ; for, if sunk in the earth, its coldness and 

 dampness exhausts their heat. They should, how- 

 ever, either be partially sunk, or be placed in a low 

 and sheltered situation ; as, if they be much ex- 



