DIVISION IV. 



VEGETABLES. 



This is by no means the least important division in an ezhibi- 

 tion of horticultural produce, and although it is not so showy 

 and generally attractive as the flowers and fruits, it affords 

 much interest and instruction to the public, and is a field for 

 the keenest competition among horticulturists. The know- 

 ledge of how to grow vegetables to perfection is of the utmost 

 importance to all who cultivate a bit of ground, from the 

 smallest allotment of the cottager to the extensive culinary 

 department of a county magnate's garden establishment, where 

 the very best of everything is a sine qua non; and although 

 the following directions are specially designed for growing 

 specimens for exhibition, they are equally applicable to the 

 cultivation of ordinary vegetables. Tn mentioning the best 

 varieties of the different classes of vegetables, only well- 

 known types, as a rule, have been selected, because it is 

 scarcely possible to name varieties which would do equally 

 well under all circumstances in every part of the country, 

 but they may afford a guide to the inexperienced beginner 

 and the amateur. All experienced competitors have their 

 own select varieties, which they cultivate with indomitable 

 perseverance and skill, to secure the highest awards in com- 

 petition. 



THE GLOBE AETICHOKE. 



The varieties of this vegetable in cultivation are the Green 

 and Purple with different strains from each of more or less 

 merit. To procure first-rate fleshy heads of the Globe Arti- 

 choke, a strong rich soil and an open situation are required. 

 Plants should be divided and planted three feet apart in fresh 

 soil. All the small shoots should be cut away, and two or 



