SIMPLE METHODS. 35 



the cultivator need not despair of producing a good supply 

 of nauslirooms during the summer months. 



In Cucumber and Marrow Beds. When the 



vegetable marrows and ridge cucumbers are grown 

 on great heaps of decaying vegetable matter of vari- 

 ous kinds', these, if spawned in July, or during the early 

 part of August, not infreqiiently produce large crops of 

 mushrooms late in the autumn. Much, however, depends 

 upon the weather experienced, but if the month of August 

 prove hot and dry, and September moderately so, the spawn 

 spreads rapidly, and gentle autumn rains cause large clusters 



Mushrooms in a Tub. 



A simple way of growing Mnshrooms in a cellar or onthonse. 



of succulent mushrooms to come to the surface. When frosts 

 destroy the marrow haulm, this should be carefully cut awaj^ 

 and the thick covering of strawy litter placed over the bed. 



Beds of Mixed Soil and Manure. — Where 

 there are no convenient spots in which to prepare the 

 manure for the beds, the plan of mixing fresh, dry soil 

 with quite fresh horse droppings ought to be tried. It is 

 also worthy of a trial even when facilities exist for all work 

 connected with mushroom culture. The dry soil absorbs 

 ammonia, prevents overheating, and this admits therefore 

 of beds being made up quickly, and, let us add, with every 

 prospect of ultimate success. There must be no mistake 



D 2 



