1 6 THE BOOK OF ASPARAGUS 



wanted to purchase the plants at a fancy price. About 

 four years from the time that the asparagus was planted, 

 the plants were removed. It was then found that their 

 roots had travelled to the bottom of the heap, some five or 

 six feet in depth. Of course this depth of soil is quite 

 unnecessary even if the best results be aimed at, yet it is 

 well to know of what the plants are capable. The 

 difference in the home of the original plant on the rocks 

 and the deep earth of the cultivated one, as just de- 

 scribed, shows a wonderful adaptability, and also teaches 

 us what can be done by altering conditions, or in other 

 words, of what plants are capable when allowed unlimited 

 privileges. 



Preparation of the Land for Permanent 

 Plantations 



Here again is a matter of the first importance, for 

 having decided to grow asparagus, whether on the large 

 scale or the small, the same preparation is necessary. 

 Having fixed on the site, as much manure as possible 

 from stables, pig-sties, or cattle yard should be taken in 

 the autumn, and either ploughed, or, better still, dug 

 into the ground. This digging should be done as 

 deeply as the soil will admit, but in no case should the 

 subsoil be brought to the surface, no matter of what 

 nature it is. Let the land remain in a rough state, as 

 the plough or spade leaves it. As this work is to be of 

 a permanent character, be not stingy with the manure, 

 for no more will ever again be placed under the surface 

 as long as the plantation remains. In the spring or late 

 in winter, preferably about the end of February, the land 

 should be crossed with a scarifier or a heavy harrow, 

 and then left till near the time of planting, which is the 

 middle or end of March. It will be advisable about two 

 days before the planting takes place again to harrow the 



