JUST HOW 119 



There are two main types : one tall and narrow, the cos ; and 

 the other low and spreading, the cabbage. It is a sturdy plant, 

 and it can be planted as a companion for some other crop — 

 radish, for instance — or as a succession crop. Seedsmen dis- 

 tinguish between white- and black-seeded lettuce ; the former 

 is grown chiefly by forcing, the latter, out of doors. 



The earliest crop of lettuce is always started within doors, 

 and is either set in the ground or allowed to mature in glass 

 frames ; but as soon as the ground is in any sort of condition 

 for planting, the first outdoor sowing may be made. Lettuce 

 transplants well ; manure is its best fertilizer ; its pests and 

 diseases fortunately cause gardeners very little worry. 



Lettuce will grow obligingly in any good garden soil, but 

 the best results are to be had with earth that is light, warm, 

 and quick. 



Under glass or in the house sow lettuce in drills a few 

 inches apart ; prick out, when the second leaves appear, to 

 four inches apart. Repeat this as often as it seems neces- 

 sary, until the plants stand about one foot apart. The depth 

 for lettuce seed under glass is one-quarter inch, and in the 

 open, one- half inch. 



Here are some special hints for the raising of lettuce : Cul- 

 tivate constantly and keep the leaves free of earth. Be care- 

 ful not to hoe against the plants so as to mar the leaves, and 

 do npt let any fertilizer touch them. The cos lettuce must 

 have its leaves drawn up and tied at the top in order to blanch 

 the hearts. 



Pick the crop as needed. It is best done in the early morn- 

 ing, while the leaves are crisp and before the sun has had a 

 chance to wilt them ; then place the plant in a cool, dark 

 place, with its stem in water. An hour or so before serving, the 

 leaves should be pulled apart and washed thoroughly in cold 

 water. After the water has been well shaken off, the plant 



