10 



A TREATISE ON THE 



Much diversity of opinion exists as to the best method of pro- 

 tecting the border during the period of forcing, and almost endless 

 are the opinions entertained, and methods adopted, to carry out 

 the desired object. After much observation, added to practical 

 experience of many different plans, I have found the following to 

 answer best : — Before any internal heat is applied to the vines, 

 proceed with the border as follows. Leaves of hard-wooded forest- 

 trees, such as oak, beech, &c., which have been previously col- 

 lected in a large heap and well trampled together, will soon 

 become heated, and settle into solid masses. In using these 

 leaves, take from the centre of the heap those that are the driest 

 and most firmly cemented together, and in as large pieces as pos- 

 sible, and from four to six inches thick. Begin by forking the 

 surface of the border lightly over, and when the earth is thus 

 loosened, the masses of leaves should be laid entirely over the 

 border, lapping one over the other, on the same principle as the 

 roof of a house is slated, for the purpose of preventing the rain 

 penetrating. Over the solid pieces of leaves add six inches of 

 dry loose ones, and on the top of them one or two inches of fine 

 mould, to prevent the wind from blowing the leaves about, as well 

 as to give a clean and neat appearance. The temperature for the 

 first fortnight or three weeks, during the night, should not exceed 

 from fifty to fifty-five degrees, allowing an increase of ten degrees 

 throughout the day. Syringe freely with tepid water until the 

 buds are excited ; then cease syringing altogether, but still keep 

 a moist atmosphere by throwing plenty of water on the paths. 

 At this stage increase the heat five or seven degrees ; admit air 

 upon every available occasion, but at the same time give it in mo- 

 deration, as a sudden admission of cold air is as injurious as an 

 excess of heat, both of which must be carefully guarded against. 

 When the young shoots have grown to the length of about two 

 inches, you will then be able to ascertain with certainty those 

 showing the best bunches, which, of course, the grower will select, 

 as far as it is practicable. In leaving the required supply, do so 

 at as regular distances along the rod as possible, leaving certainly 



