CHAPTER VII. 
PITS AND FRAMES. 
Bors ordinary frames and low brick or other pits are so 
valuable in gardens of all sorts and sizes, and are useful 
for such a variety of purposes, that it is scarcely possible 
to have too many of either, especially where early vegetables 
and so forth are required in abundance. For hardening 
off bedding and other tender plants, raising seedlings of 
many kinds, wintering carnations, auriculas, etc., as well 
as forwarding various vegetable crops, and for growing 
cucumbers, melons, and even tomatoes these contrivances 
are almost indispensable. In former years, before glass 
houses and heating apparatus became so cheap and common 
as they are now, a great deal of excellent work was done 
by means of pits and frames only, with no heat beyond 
that obtained from fermenting manure, leaves, or tan, and 
they are equally effective now, in capable hands. For many 
nearly hardy subjects, in which a dwarf and sturdy growth 
is indispensable, such as mignonette and other annuals 
in pots, and for growing cinerarias, chinese primulas, 
and others of a similar nature during the early stages, and 
so forth, low, airy pits and frames are positively unequalled. 
The chief objection to the extended use of such frames, 
etc., is that no matter how severe or rough the weather 
may be, the lights or sashes must be opened to allow the 
