CABBAGE, 29 
while it should be well prepared, no manure of any 
kind should be used; it induces weakling plants. Some 
sow seed directly in the field where the plants are to 
remain, considering it more expeditious and satisfac- 
tory, as there is no check in growth as in transplanting. 
By sowing with a drill to drop seed about as far apart 
as plants should stand, but little thinning will be neces- 
sary. In thinning, pull the rankest growing plants, 
reserving those possessing fine mid-ribs and general 
sturdiness. Good cultivation is necessary for a full 
crop of cabbage seed from the time of sowing till final 
stage of seeding. Cabbage for seed should not be grown 
oftener than twice in the same ground without rotation 
of crops, one season for production of plants and one 
for seed. 
Cabbage seed may be produced by three methods, 
from solid or perfectly developed heads, from partially 
or half-formed heads, and from stumps from which 
solid heads have been removed for use. By either 
process, excellent seed answering for all practical gar- 
dening purposes may be obtained. 
The First Method: From Solid Heads.—This is 
practiced for obtaining extra-selected stock-seed, or seed 
to be used for growing a commercial or field crop. It 
enables roguing to be critically performed, as only extra- 
choice heads must be selected to produce stock seed. 
Second Method.—With stock seed produced as 
above for starting the crop, a crop of commercial seed 
may be raised by the second method, from partially 
developed heads, although the experienced grower con- 
tinues roguing with this crop, as mixtures and inferior 
plants are readily detected by him in a field of half- 
formed heads; and providing care is thus observed in 
throwing out all impure plants, seed produced by the 
