12 



A TREATISE ON THE 



ranges higher than seventy-six degrees. Much is gained by very 

 early thinning : it is desirable to commence almost as soon as the 

 berries are set. By so doing, you prevent the bunches from be- 

 coming crowded, and thus avoid doing injury to the remaining 

 berries, by a touch either from the fingers or scissors, as it is 

 most desirable, even at this early stage, to preserve the bloom 

 entire, and plenty of space must be allowed between each berry 

 so as to give room for expansion. Clip out all the smallest and 

 inside berries; but much must be left to the discretion of the 

 grower as regards the extent of thinning, as it would be difficult 

 to give any specified rule to act upon. 



Great vigilance must be observed in removing the lateral shoots 

 as they appear, in order to throw all the strength of the vine into 

 the growing fruit, and also to prevent the overcrowding and 

 darkening of the house ; due care must be taken in admitting air 

 freely, giving a little as early in the morning as is consistent with 

 safety ; attending strictly to the cleanliness of the house, always 

 keeping it in a pure and healthy state; and, if so done, little 

 damage may be apprehended from the injurious effects of red 

 spider; but if, from hard forcing, these troublesome insects 

 should make their appearance, they may be greatly subdued by 

 washing the interior walls of the vinery with a mixture of hot 

 lime, and a sufficient quantity of sulphur to give a shght tinge 

 of yellow to the mixture. In using the wash, be careful to avoid 

 touching the hot pipes or flues with it, as the vapour arising there- 

 from is most injurious. The degree of heat should be continued, 

 as before directed, until after the grapes have perfected their 

 seeds, during which period the berries will remain almost sta- 

 tionary in size ; but as soon as nature has performed this important 

 office the growth will be most rapid. A sHght increase of heat 

 may now be given without fear of injmy, provided the grapes are 

 required at any given time. From the time they begin to change 

 colour until they are thoroughly ripe, admit air freely, but, if the 

 weather is cold, let it be given with due care and consideration. 

 During the time of colouring a small portion of air should be ad- 



