THE GRAPE VINE. 6$ 



body, constituting it a rather strong but friable loam. 

 In all my observations and experience I have invaria- 

 bly found the most robust and fruitful vines growing in 

 borders composed of soils of this description, especially 

 when taken from the red sandstone formation. Although 

 such a soil as this contains nearly all that is necessary 

 for the production of first-rate grapes for some years, 

 regard must be had to the time when the tiirfy organic 

 matter in it has decomposed and changed into mould, 

 leaving the border destitute of its primitive fertility, and 

 less porous than is desirable. And substances that will 

 retain their manurial and organic character beyond 

 this time must be added to. it as shall now be directed. 



In taking the top spit of such old pasture-soil as I 

 have described, the verdure and soil should be taken to 

 the depth of half a spit, or about six or seven inches. It 

 is very often found to be much infested with wire-worm, 

 an insect which, when introduced into vine-borders, 

 preys upon the young roots of vines. In time of severe 

 frost these pests retreat downwards, and it is therefore 

 best if possible to collect the soil when it is frozen. The 

 turf should be stacked in the compost-yard for some 

 months before it is used. I have, however, frequently 

 carted it in when in a dry state, and prepared and mixed 

 it immediately. When this has to be done, the grass 

 should be cut closely off with a scythe before the ground 

 is touched. In the process of chopping and mixing 

 the turf, it should, if possible, be protected from wet; and 

 where there is not shed-room sufficient to hold it, it can 

 be covered with wooden shutters or tarpauling. 



The loam should first be chopped up moderately fine, 

 mixing the fibry portion of it regularly with the finer. 

 Then to six parts of loam add one part of old lime- 



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