JUST HOW 121 



above the surface ; then firm them well. This is the way 

 to get early onions, a real spring treat. 



Root maggot is the most troublesome enemy of the onion, 

 but it is also attacked by leaf blight and smut. Any part 

 that becomes affected by these parasites should at once be 

 removed and burned. 



The unintelligent cooking of onions is partly responsible 

 for their unpopularity. Onions contain a volatile sulphurous 

 oil which will in a measure disappear if this rule is followed 

 in preparing them : Wash them, cover with boiling water, 

 then cover tightly and boil for ten minutes ; drain, cover 

 again with fresh boiling water, repeating this process twice 

 more, making four times in all ; add a little salt and boil till 

 tender, keeping them covered all the time. When finished 

 they should be dressed with a cream sauce. 



Parsley. Parsley is a dainty little plant, grown for its curly 

 leaves. These are used for garnishing and for seasoning, 

 and occasionally in salads. One curious thing about growing 

 parsley is that a person may easily be deceived as to the 

 success of the seeds planted, for they are extremely slow in 

 germinating. Sometimes after their coming up has been de- 

 spaired of, it may be after four or five weeks, all at once they 

 delight us by appearing. While waiting, however, do not be 

 tempted to let the earth cake over the seeds or to dry up. As 

 for soil, parsley only asks for good medium soil worked deep 

 and fine. Sow in protected nooks, or as a border for beds, 

 or, as is more usual, in rows about one foot apart and half an 

 inch deep. When well up, thin or transplant. Fertilize with 

 nitrate of soda or liquid manure. Be sure to bring some 

 plants in for the house ; they do beautifully in a warm win- 

 dow. Indoor plants from seeds will be green and thriving in 

 two weeks' time. A few sprays laid on a platter containing 

 meat, or upon a salad, never fail to make the dish more 



