THE 
GARDEN YARD 206 
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 1s 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 
