12 VEGETABLE FORCING 
important, owing to a milder climate, and there is now 
some evidence that greenhouses will be used more ex- 
tensively in the Middle South in growing products for 
northern markets. 
Relative importance of forcing crops.—Lettuce un- 
doubtedly occupies first place in commercial importance. 
It is grown extensively as a frame crop, and is the leader 
in nearly all large forcing establishments. The cucumber 
ranks second and the tomato third, although the tomato 
is more important in some sections. The radish ranks 
fourth and cauliflower fifth. Rhubarb, asparagus, beet, 
pepper and eggplant are grown to some extent and the 
bean, pea, onion, muskmelon, asparagus, witloof chicory, 
carrot, cress, mints, parsley, spinach, celery, and a few 
other vegetables are of minor importance. 
The outlook.—The outlook for vegetable forcing was 
probably never better than at present. The demand for 
high-grade vegetables is on the increase, and consumers 
want them the year round. People are asking for the 
best, and the best grows in forcing structures. While 
prices are low at times, they average just as high as they 
did several years ago. 
Growers are better able to meet southern competition. 
Modern methods of greenhouse construction are favor- 
able. Vegetable forcing appeals to many people because 
the returns are so prompt. A house completed the middle 
of October, and planted at once with strong, frame-grown 
lettuce plants, will yield a crop for Thanksgiving and 
two more lettuce crops before cucumbers or tomatoes are 
planted for spring and summer market. With successful 
management and good prices, the cost of construction is 
soon covered, but a certain amount of conservatism on 
the part of greenhouse vegetable growers is highly desir- 
able. It is better not to make large extensions in the 
ranges unless the results assure a satisfactory outlet for 
the increased production. 
