VIKES. 41 



aware tliat under the head- of tMs chapter we are tread- 

 ing on delicate ground, and confess that we feel the 

 diffionlty of making the distinctive peculiarities of the 

 vines so clear, that from this account a person may 

 distinguish and select for himself (See Plate Ko. 5.) 



In some cases the viae will be planted in the fall, 

 and at such times they are purchased most probably 

 immediately before setting out. Of course, the leaf 

 will be examined, and the color and strength of the 

 spears noticed. If the purchaser relies upon the green 

 appearance of the vine as an indication of its fruitful- 

 ness, he may be deceived, and regret that he allowed 

 himself to be misled by such a sign. 



Another may determine upon planting in the spring 

 (which is certainly under some circumstances the most 

 favorable season), and in such a case they would select 

 and prepare their location in the course of the winter, 

 that in May or June they might be ready to plant 'or 

 set out. Plants for spring planting are most frequently 

 chosen in the winter. But generally, the buying of 

 plants at such times is a mere piece of guess-work, for 

 there is likely nothing in their appearance which may 

 certify the purchaser that they are good and fruitful. 

 Plants may be selected in the spring or fall ; one time 

 is as favorable as the other for this purpose. 



In speaking of the Healthy Vine, we wish to be un- 

 dertood as referring to that which is the most fruitful — 



