140 THE AMATEURS’ GUIDE 
affected in their form and flavor by soil, climate, and mode of cul- 
ture. The sowings should always be made just before a rain, 
if possible, for the escape from the fly and the success of the crop 
depends upon quick germination and a rapid growth at first. The 
ground should be kept free from weeds, and when the bottoms 
begin to enlarge, the earth should be brushed from about the roots 
to the depth of half an inch. A light dressing of wood-ashes, 
lime, or soot, should be given morning and evening for a few days 
after sowing the seed, which will generally serve to protect the 
crop against the attacks of the fly. To protect during winter, 
store in a cool, airy cellar, and cover with sand, or in mounds 
of dry earth. 
