196 Gardening 
With experience, one will learn how to handle the 
various seedlings under the local conditions of weather 
and the method of treatment used. It is a good plan 
for the beginner to make a record of the dates of plant- 
ing seed and transplanting, and of the results obtained 
in growing seedlings of the different varieties for trans- 
planting. This will serve as a guide in the following 
seasons. 
Questions 
Describe the germination of a seed. What are the three main 
requirements for germination? Why does too much water in 
the soil hinder germination? Discuss the temperature require- 
ments of different seeds for germination. Describe the proper 
method of laying out and planting a row of seed. 
How deep should the seeds of corn, beans, and peas be planted, 
usually? seeds of beets, cucumbers, squashes, and melons? 
carrots, radishes, lettuce, and parsnip? Name some conditions 
that make it advisable to plant seeds deeper or shallower. When 
is it of special value to firm the soil? Why? When should the 
soil not be firmed? Why is it best not to water seeds immediately 
after planting? 
Describe the transplanting method of starting crops. With 
what kinds of crops is this method used? 
What is the best soil for a seed flat? Why should a very 
tich soil not be used? What kind of soil should be used in the 
flats to which seedlings are transplanted? How should it be 
prepared? How should the seeds be planted in a flat? 
How may seedlings of the tomato and cabbage be grown in 
the home? 
What is a hotbed? Where should a hotbed be located? What 
is a pit hotbed? How is it made? When should the seeds or 
seedlings be placed in the hotbed? What is a surface hotbed and 
how is it made? How should a hotbed be watered? How is it 
ventilated? What is a cold frame? What are its principal 
uses P 
