How to Grow Plants from Seeds 197 
wire screening of {-inch mesh can be used in making the 
soil sieve), but put the manure through a still coarser one 
(3-inch mesh). The sieves can easily be made by nailing 
screening to wooden frames of convenient size. 
Thoroughly mix the sifted materials, and if dry, sprinkle 
with water until moist. 
Such a soil is high in fertility, and it will remain 
loose for some time under repeated waterings. If sand 
is lacking, the drainage is likely to be poor ; if there is too 
much manure, the plants are likely to grow too rapidly and 
become “ soft”’*and subject to ‘“‘ damping-off”’ diseases. 
Fic. 102. A gardener’s equipment for preparing the soil for flats and 
pots. The earth is piled upon the bench in readiness for sifting. The soil 
sieves have meshes of different sizes. 
