STAGING, BEDS, ETC. 99 
at the top throughout, running right through the centre 
of the whole block, across the houses, and exactly in the 
middle. The beds and pathways were carried over this 
by means of stout planks, and the side-walls on brick 
arches, but otherwise it was open. 
In and about Worthing deep brick and cement tanks, 
about 8ft. square, and standing a considerable distance 
above the ground, as well as being sunk some feet below 
it, are much used, but they are extremely ugly, and not 
very convenient. In my opinion, a tank of any magnitude 
should either be constructed right across the house, or 
else occupy part of the centre bed, or one of those at 
the side, for some distance. If placed in the centre, a 
light raised staging for plants may be constructed over it, 
and the space thus utilized, while at the same time the 
top is left practically open, and the water is easily 
accessible. Where the tanks are filled entirely or in part 
from the gutters outside, by gravitation, it is evident 
that the top of each tank must be a little lower, if only a 
few inches, than the lowest point of the gutters. An 
overflow ought always to be provided also. 
In some cases, one or two rows of hot water pipes are 
conducted through the tank, or tanks, in order to slightly 
warm the water before use. Where this is done the water 
occasionally becomes quite hot, but in spite of the practice 
of some growers, I certainly do not consider this advisable, 
and am strongly of opinion that hot water is not beneficial 
to plant growth, generally. In cucumber culture tepid or 
lukewarm water may be all right, and even advisable, but 
really hot water should be avoided—it certainly promotes 
a weak and spindly, even if a rapid, growth. 
H 2 
