2lS 
VEGETABLE GARDENING 
so early in the spring when the crowns are set deep, but 
many advantages overbalance this possible disadvantage. 
After having decided upon the distance between rows, 
an ordinary moldboard plow is used to make the trenches 
for planting. A furrow slice is thrown on each side of 
the furrow. It is often necessary to make two or three 
rounds before the proper depth has been obtained. Then 
shovels are sometimes employed to secure greater depth. 
When trenched and ready to receive the plants, the field 
has the appearance of having dead-furrows at frequent 
intervals. Unless companion crops are to be grown be- 
tween the rows, cross marks should be made so that the 
cultivators may be used both ways. A pole with a series 
of chains attached at the required distance is sometimes 
used in marking, though more accurate methods are pre- 
ferred. 
It is not best to set the plants in the bottom of a hard 
trench. Instead, spread the roots over a slight mound 
of fine soil and then cover the crown with 2 or 3 inches 
of fine moist soil. The ground should be well firmed 
over the fleshy roots. The planter may accomplish this 
by the use of his feet as he rises and proceeds to the next 
plant. Inexperienced growers often make the mistake 
of covering the crowns too deeply at first, thus smother- 
ing the small shoots before these reach the surface. No 
more soil should be filled in the trench until the shoots 
appear. Then soil is gradually worked in mainly by culti- 
vation. By midsummer the furrows should be filled. 
Some writers advocate starting fields from seed sown 
where the plants are to remain. While the system 
possesses certain advantages, it has not met with favor 
among extensive commercial growers. 
280. Cultivation. — Following the planting of the new 
bed or the field, tillage should begin promptly after the 
first rain. Light raking in the furrows will be sufficient 
tillage at first, but after the plants have started, wheei 
