HAND BOOK FOR THE GARDEN 3 
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EARLINESS 
' All plants may be advanced by sowing the seed in boxes or pots 
indoors, page 22, or in a hotbed or cold frame, pages 37-39. The ger- 
mination of seeds may be hastened by soaking them over night in 
warm water. 
PLANTING 
If the soil is dry and mellow, firm the soil over the seeds and about 
the plants. This is very important for it brings the soil particles into 
contact with the seeds and roots and prevents them from drying out. 
The best way to do this in,gardens is with the feet. Tread every inch 
of the row, after which the surface soil may be leveled and earth 
mulch formed with a short-tooth rake. When any kinds of plants are 
set out, whether vegetables, flowers, shrubs or trees, firm the soil 
over the roots by firm treading and work in well around the crown. 
TRANSPLANTING 
Before plants are removed, they should be thoroughly soaked in 
water and wherever possible, it is desirable to take up some soil with 
the plant. It is also a good plan to trim off one-third to one-half of 
the tops, especially in the case of plants like Cabbage and Celery 
to prevent more evaporation taking place from the leaves than the 
roots can stand. After transplanting trees or shrubs, it is well to use 
straw or some other mulch around the roots, which will help keep 
them moist. 
CULTIVATION 
Frequent shallow cultivation should be employed for garden 
crops. In very dry weather the depth should not exceed two inches. 
A dust mulch of finely divided soil on the surface will prevent the 
escape of moisture from below. A crust forming over the soil after a 
rain is harmful to plant growth and should be broken up as soon as 
the land can be worked. Too much importance can not be placed 
upon the thorough cultivation of a garden and if the work is properly 
and thoroughly done, there will be little difficulty in controlling weeds. 
