^a/idefi SPiicee^^ Begins with 



Good Seed, Proper Planting, and Care 



* Preparing the Soil 



A rich sandy loam is well adapted to gardening. 

 Other kinds of soil are suitable, but stiff clays need 

 plenty of fibrous material and must be thoroughly 

 broken up. Sandy soils generally need additional 

 fertilizing. 



For general use, where well-rotted stable manure 

 is not available, a commercial fertilizer containing 

 4 per cent nitrates, 12 per cent phosphate, and 4 to 

 6 per cent potash is usually best. Apply at the rate 

 of about 4 pounds to the square rod. 



Use the Jioe in covering the seeds. Press the soil 

 down firmly as you go along 



Work the soil deeply and make the top 3 or 4 

 inches as fine and loose as possible. Much weed 

 killing can be done by hoeing or raking just before 

 planting. Do not work clay soils when they are wet 

 enough to stick to rake or hoe. 



* Planting 



At time of planting seed in the open ground, the 

 soil should be moist but never wet, when avoidable. 

 To retain moisture after planting, cover seed imme- 

 diately with fine, freshly prepared earth and press it 

 down firmly and smoothly. This firming of the soil 

 brings the particles of earth into close contact with 

 the seeds, prevents drying out, and facilitates 

 growth. 



Plant from the Ferry packet by tapping gently 



with the forefinger; it helps distribute the seeds 



evenly in the row 



Plant at a time when the atmospheric and soil 

 temperatures are most favorable for germination of 

 the kind of seed to be sown. The best temperature 

 for each kind may be learned from study of our 

 cultural directions and zonal charts and by inquiring 

 of successful gardeners in your neighborhood. 



The proper depth for covering seed varies with the 

 dift'erent kinds of seeds and conditions of soil. This 

 can be learned best through practical experience. 



When planting seed, the soil must be loose and 

 soft so that the tender stems of seedlings can easily 

 push through, and the young roots quickly find plant 

 food. This is usually secured by careful preparation 

 of the soil and by not planting fine seeds when the 

 ground is wet. 



* Cultivating 



Stirring the surface soil during the period of 

 growth kills weeds, loosens the ground so as to 

 encourage root development, allows air to enter, and 

 helps to conserve moisture. Cultivation may be 

 deep at first, but as the plants grow it should be more 

 shallow to avoid injury to the roots. 



* Watering 



When plants need artificial watering, the best hours 

 of the day for it are early morning or evening. The 

 roots, however, may be watered at any time. One 

 good soaking is better than many light sprinklings. 



