168 Account of a new Frame used in forcing Asparagus, $c. 



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It principally differs in being wider and deeper. If the Asparagus 

 is grown in rows instead of beds, then the frame last described will 

 do equally well. The frame, when used, is to be placed over the 

 Asparagus bed, its edge being sunk three or four inches below the 

 surface of the soil, which is to slope gradually outwards so that the 

 dung lining may be applied directly below the edge of the frame, 

 which is then covered with hot dung, but in greater abundance 

 than in the case of Seakail, because there is more earth to heat. 

 The management of the forcing differs only in taking care that the 

 heat is not strong for some time after the frame is placed. 



The heads which first appear will be small and weak, as is always 

 the case, but they will be gradually succeeded by stronger. The 

 cutting should not be prolonged too much ; a fortnight or a little 

 more is as much as is expedient. In the end the bed is to be 

 gradually cooled, and the frame being removed, it will cease to pro- 

 duce Asparagus till the natural period of its growth arrives, when 

 it will revive, and may be again cut if required. This is, however, 

 not advisable, as the summer unimpeded growth of the Asparagus 

 will nearly restore the bed to its former vigour before the succeeding 

 winter. It is better, however, not to force a bed oflener than every 

 two years. I am, Sir, Your obedient servant, 



John Dick. 



Ballindean, Oct. 1830. 



