134 GARDENING FOR THE SOUTH. 



a few of which will supply a large family. Cut the tops 

 smoothly off near the surface, when wanted, and fresh 

 ones will soon spring up. Gives make a very pretty 

 edging for beds in Avinter and spring. Renew this plant 

 every four years by taking up and dividing the roots. 

 Use. — It is an excellent substitute for young onions in 

 X winter and spring salading, and is also used like leeks and 

 onions in seasoning soups, gravies, &c. The leaves, cut 

 up fine and mixed with meal and water, are often fed to 

 young chickens as a preventive of disease. The little 

 bulbs may be taken up and stored, and are a tolerable 

 substitute for small onions. 



Allium Sco rodop ras um — E, ocambole. 



or Spanish Garlic, as it is sometimes called, has its bulbs 

 and cloves growing in a cluster, forming a kind of com- 

 pound root. The stem also bears bulbs at its summit. 



Culture. — It is best propagated by the root-bulbs, those 

 of the summit being slow in production. The planting 

 may be made at any time in the fall, winter, or spring 

 Insert the bulbs in drills, or with the dibble, six inches 

 apart each way. Do not plant thei^i deep. Keep clear 

 of weeds, and cultivate and store like garlic. A very few 

 roots are sufficient for any family. 



Use. — The bulbs are used in the same manner as garlic, 

 and are preferred for cooking, being of much milder flavor. 



Apium. 



Plants of this genus flourish best in a soil moist, friable, 

 and rather inclining to lightness. It must be rich, and 

 that rather from former applications than the immediate 

 addition of manure. Celery and Celeriac, however, appear 

 benefited by its abundant ap]^lication at the time of sowing 

 and planting. 



