134 Home Vegetable Gardening 



eight feet high (see illustration). To secure extra 

 early pods on the poles pinch back the vines at five 

 feet high. 



Corn: — For extra early ears, corn may easily be 

 started on sod, as directed for cucumbers. Be sure, 

 however, not to get into the open until danger from 

 frost is over — usually at least ten days after it is 

 safe for the first planting, which is seldom made 

 before May ist. Frequent, shallow cultivation is a 

 prime necessity in growing this crop. When well 

 up, thin to four stalks to a hill — usually five to 

 seven kernels being planted. A slight hilling when 

 the tassels appear will be advisable. Plant fre- 

 quently for succession crops. The last sowing may 

 be made as late as the first part of July if the seed 

 is well firmed in, to assure immediate germination. 

 Sweet corn for the garden is frequently planted in 

 drills, about three feet apart, and thinning to ten 

 to twelve inches. 



Cucumber: — This universal favorite is easily 

 grown if the striped beetle is held at bay. For the 

 earliest fruits start on sod in the frames : Cut out 

 sods four to six inches square, where the grass indi- 

 cates rich soil. Pack close together in the frame, 

 grass side down, and push seven or eight seeds into 

 each, firmly enough to be held in place, covering with 

 about one and a half inches of light soil ; water thor- 

 oughly and protect with glass or cloth, taking care 



