CHAPTER XXIII. 
THE STORAGE OE ROOTS. 
“ Hide those roots 
That shall first spring, and be most delicate.” 
Henry V., II., 4. 
S HE proper storing of roots is a matter of great im- 
^ portance, and one that obtains much less than its due 
share of attention in gardens generally. Rough and 
ready methods answer very well when the store is small ; but 
when a large family has to be provided for, suitable arrange- 
ments of a more systematic, and, we may even say, scientific 
kind should be made. The preservation of the stock in the 
best condition possible not only aids the table while it lasts, 
but prevents a common contingency of careless storing, the 
purchase of roots in spring to make good the waste resulting 
from unthrift. If roots become shrivelled through exposure 
to the air, or make much growth of white shoots or green 
leaves through being too warm, the quality is seriously de- 
teriorated, and the money value in proportion lowered. It 
is something to have nice samples of old potatoes, turnips, 
carrots, parsnips, and beets in the months of May and June, 
for they may all be wanted, but it can only be done by good 
storing, the cost of which is as nothing compared with the 
result when there is any quantity of produce to be dealt with. 
A few rough diagrams of storehouses for roots will perhaps 
convey more information than we could hope to afford by an 
elaborate essay. _ The requisites of a store are coolness, dark- 
ness, safety against the frost, means of ventilation, and con- 
venience of access. As a matter of course, it is often possible 
to convert a common shed or stable, or toolhouse into a store 
for roots, but the primary conditions of success should be 
