THE COUNTRY HOME [CHAPTER 
knowing what not to grow, as well as what to grow 
— what to drop out of culture in our gardens as well 
as out of our vineyards and orchards. Egg plants 
are much relished at my table, but I have never 
succeeded in growing them without so much trou- 
ble that I prefer to buy. A few peppers I would 
have for their beauty, even if I did not desire to use 
them. I do not say to an enthusiast, who has right 
soil and enough time, Do not undertake to grow a 
row of celery or a plot of onions; only this, Do not 
undertake it unless you have right soil and plenty 
of time. 
The three essentials of a country garden are, in 
succession, sweet corn, string beans — with shell 
beans — and green peas. This is the trinity of table 
luxury. People who live in cities rarely ever taste 
any of these in their choicest varieties and fresh 
from the field. I would go to the country to live, 
if for nothing else, to find out what corn, peas, and 
beans can be at their best. They are not only the 
three most delicious, but the three most valuable 
vegetables for food. ‘To secure them in succession, 
plant as early as possible in April, and then plant 
successively until the middle of June. Late-planted 
peas will almost always mildew, and corn cannot 
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