GARDEN YARD ^^ 



When set at the proper distance of three by- 

 four feet apart, it requires 3630 plants to the 

 acre, and 1 pound of seed should furnish that 

 many plants. But seedlings vary so much, 

 that some growers recommend sowing from four 

 to five pounds of seed to" every acre, so that 

 only the best need be kept. A good yield is 

 about 400 dozen bunches to the acre. Aspara- 

 gus is always sold in bunches, the stalks of uni- 

 form size and length, and tied near the tops and 

 butts either with bark or string; though many 

 growers are now using rubber bands as being 

 better for the stalks and a saving of time for 

 the gardener. 



Asparagus is usually sold green in this country, 

 although if artificially blanched it is just as ten- 

 der. When asparagus is grown for blanching 

 it should be planted deeper than ordinarily. 

 It is hilled up with a furrow plow just as celery 

 is hilled up, and blanches as it grows. Blanched 

 asparagus is in higher favor in Europe than here. 



Asparagus is a native of Europe and Asia, 

 and has been cultivated for more than two 

 thousand years. It belongs to the lily family 

 and several of its very near relations are culti- 

 vated in greenhouses for their graceful foliage. 



The asparagus beetle is the worst enemy and 

 must be steadily fought. In young beds, apply 



