o.. \« IMAGE EVALUATION TEST TARGET (MT-3) /. % <-" > // Uy% M Riotographic Sciences Corporation 23 WEST MAIN STREET WEBSTER, N.Y. 14580 (716) 872-4503 V iV ^N^ y$> ^\ ^\ o V %' o ^ %?, ^ CIHM/ICMH Microfiche Series. CIHM/ICMH Collection de microfiches. Canadian Institute for Historical Microreproductions / Institut Canadian de microreproductions historiques Technical and Bibliographic Notas/Notas techniques at bibliographiques The Institute has attempted to obtain the best original copy available for filming. Features of this copy which may be bibliographically unique, which may alter any of the images in tha reproduction, or which may significantly change the usual method of filming, are checked below. Coloured covers/ Couverture de couleur r~~| Covers damaged/ Couverture endommagie Covers restored and/or laminatod/ Couverture restaurito et/ou pelliculAe Cover title missing/ Le titre de couverture manque Coloured maps/ Cartes giographiques en couleur Coloured ink (i.e. other than blue or black)/ Encre de couleur (i.e. autre que bleue ou noire) Coloured plates and/or illustrations/ Planches et/ou illustrations en couleur Bound with other material/ ReliA avec d'autres documents □ D D Tight binding may cause shadows or distortion along interior margin/ La re Mure serrie peut causer do I'ombre ou de la distorsion la long de la marge int^rieure Blank leaves added during restoration may appear within the text. Whenever possible, these have been omitted from filming/ II se peut que certaines pages blanches ajouties lors d'une restauration apparaissent dans le texte, mais, lorsque cela itait possible, cas pages n'ont pas M film^es. Additional comments:/ Commentaires suppldmentairas; L'Institut a microfilm^ le meilleur exemplaire qu'il lui a 6t6 possible de sa procurer. Les details de cet exemplaire qui sont peut-dtre uniques du point de vue bibliographique, qui peuvent modifier une image reproduite, ou qui peuvent exiger una modification dans la m^thode normale de filmage sont indiquAs ci-dessous. ' n~| Coloured pages/ Pages de couleur Pages damaged/ Pages endommagies Pages restored and/oi Pages restaurdes et/ou pelliculdes Pages discoloured, stained or foxei Pages d^colordes, tachet^es ou piqudes Pages detached/ Pages ditach^es Showthrough> Transparence Quality of prir Quality inigale de I'impression Includes supplementary materis Comprend du materiel supplementaire Only edition available/ Seule Edition disponible r~~| Pages damaged/ r~~| Pages restored and/or laminated/ r~n Pages discoloured, stained or foxed/ I I Pages detached/ r~] Showthrough/ I I Quality of print varies/ I I Includes supplementary material/ r~l Only edition available/ D Pages wholly or partially obscured by errata slips, tissues, etc., have been ref limed to ensure the best possible image/ Les pages totalement ou partieilement obscurcies par un feuillet d'errata. une pelure, etc., ont M filmies d nouveau de facon i obtenir la meilleure imag^; possible. This item is filmed at the reduction ratio checked below/ Ce document est film6 au taux de reduction indiqu6 ci-dessous. 10X 14X 18X 22X J 12X 16X 20X 26X 30X 24X 28X 32X '8 itails IS du modifier ir une ilmage ' IS Th« copy filmed hara has baan raproducad thanks to tha ganarosity of: Library Agriculture Canada Tha imagas appaaring hara »rm the best quality possible considering the condition and legibility of the original copy and in Icaeping with the filming contract specifications. Original copies in printed paper covers are filmed beginning with the front cover and ending on the last page with a printed or illustrated impree- sion, or the bactc cover when appropriate. All other original copies ar9 filmed beginning on the first page with a printed or Illustrated Impres- sion, and ending on the last page with a printed or illustrated impression. The last recorded frame on each microfiche shall contain the symbol >^ (meaning "CON- TINUED "). or the symbol V (meaning "END"), whichever appliea. Maps, plates, charts, etc.. may be filmed at different reduction ratios. Those too large to be entirely included in one exposure are filmed beginning in the upper left hand comer, left to right and top to bottom, as many frames as required. The following diagrams illustrate the method: L'sxempiaire film6 fut raproduit grdca d la g^nArosit* da: Bibliothdque Agriculture Canada Lee images suivantaa ont M raproduitas avac la plus grand soin, compta tenu de la condition at da la nattet* de I'axamplaira film«, et an conformity avac las conditions du contrat de fllmage. Lea axemplairea originaux Jont la couvartura en papier est \mqritnim sont filmte an commenpant par la premier plat at an tarminant soit par la darniAre page qui comporte une emprainta d'Impreasion ou d'lllustration, soit par la second plat, seion le caa. Tous les autraa axamplairas originaux sont filmte an commandant par la premiere pagw qui comporte une emprainta d'impreesion ou d'lllustration at en tarminant par la darniire page qui comporte une telle empreinte. Un dee symbolea suivants apparaitra sur la damiire image de cheque microfiche, selon le cas: le symboie — ^ signifie "A SUIVRE", le symbole V signifie "FIN". Les cartes, planches, tableaux, ate, pauvent Stre nimim i dee taux de rMuction diffirents. Lorsque le document est trop grand pour dtre raproduit an un seul ciichA, 11 est filmd d partir de Tangle supArieur gauche, de gauche i droite, et de haut an baa. an prenant le nombre d'imeges ndcessaire. Les diagrammes suivants illustrent la m^thoda. irrata to pelure, n i 32X 1 2 3 4 5 6 a ^^^^ ^^l^t^n=J,=:ir^nsin^iSn^i 7^I7=r ;^^^ij-^^ O BLAOKk£TT ROBINSON, PRINTER, S JORDAN STREET, TORONTa JSTABUSHWI8SJ /"^^^N the following pages we have endeavored to place in the reader's 1 m hands a f/ early plants for the kitchen garden,' such as Cabbages, Cauli- K^ flowers, Tomatoes, Peppers, Cucumbers, Melons, Herbs, etc. , so as to have them ready for planting out earlier in the season, a hot-bed is indispensable. All the choicest varieties of flowers should, if possible be sown in a hot- bed or under glass, early in the spring, so as to enjoy the longer their flowering season. The professional gardener already knows the full value of the hot-bed ; he also knows perfectly well how to construct and manage it ; consequently he takes care early in the spring to erect as great a number of hot-beds as he possibly can. The following directions are, therefore, merely addressed to the amateur and inexpe- rienced gardener, to whom we would desire to convey that the hot-bed is recommended in order to obviate the danger of our changeable spring climate, the unexpected spring frosts or drouths. It is easily man- aged, and may be got up at such slight expense that it will soon repay all who would secure an abundance of kitchen and flor^bring plants early in thej^seaaon. Besides the many advantages already stated, the observ- 2 - ing mind will find a good deal of interesting pastime in the operation connected with its management. Situation of the Bed. — This should be in a warm position fully exposed to the sun, facing the east or south, and sheltered by a fence or hedge on the west and north. The soil should, if possible, be light and dry, as in this case the bed can be sunk a foot or more in the ground ; but if damp or cold it should be built upon the surface. Making the Bed. — Manure fresh from the stable is best. This should be thrown over and thoroughly shaken up with the fork, making it into a conical heap . In this state it should be allowed to remain four or five days, at the end of which time it should be turned over, shakinaj it up as before. At the end of another three or four days it will be ready to make into the bed. Lay out the ground six inches larger than the frame, and put down a stake at each comer. The frame may be of any size, but the most convenient is nine^feet by six, which will take three lights, three feet by six, the ordinary size, which can always be had ready-made. Proceed to build up the bed to the height of two feet and a half to three feet, making it rather firm, and watering if the manure is dry. When the bed is finished, put on the lights and let it stand to settle and exhaust the violent heat. In a day or two add three or four inches of light sandy loom, spreading it evenly over the bed. If the seeds are to be sown in the soil of the bed, two or three more inches should be added, but if in pots, no addition will be necessary. The pots, when ready, and sown with the various seeds, should be put into the frame and shaded during the day, regulating the temperature by tilting the lights at the back, both night and day, and covering at night with mats. Plunge the pots into the soil, and with proper care the seeds will soon be above the earth. A thermometer placed in the bed will be the safest guide to the inexperienced. It should not rise over eighty-five degrees in the day, nor sink below sixty degrees at night. As the heat declines linings of fresh manure should be applied around the outside of the bed, but ordinarily for seeds this in not necessary. The ength or number of the frames is immaterial ; but they should be nine or twelve inches deep at the front, and fifteen to eighteen inches at the back. This will give a good slope to carry off the rain. Cold frames are simply the hot-bed frames set upon a warm spot of ground, covering at night t" keep in the warmth accumulated during the day. — 3 — ASPARAGUS. In early Spring sow the seed, after soaking it 24 hours in warm water, in drills about one foot apart and one inch deep. The soil should be very rich and well worked. Later, thin the plants to three or four inches apart in the rows, and cultivate often and thoroughly through the Summer. Trans- plant the following Spring into perman- ent beds, deeply trenched and well mixed with decayed manure. Set the plants with roots well spread and crowns in the same direction, to avoid . the roots running to- gether, in trenches one foot deep, 15 inches apart, one foot apart in the trenches, covering with four inches of soil. After the plants appear, gradually fill in the soil, giving constant cultivation. Spread on a top dressing of fine manure in the Fall and a coating of salt every Spring. One ounce of seed will produce about 500 plants and sow a row about 14 yards long. ASPARAGUS PLANTS. The earliest and best crop is secured by the use of roots. They can be set out in Fall or Spring. The Fall setting gives the earlier start the next Spring. Cultivate as described above. The third year the bed will yield a full crop, and if kept in good condition will produce well for twenty years. ARTICHOKE. Artichokes are propagated by suckers, or off-shoots, and by seed When seed is used, sow early in the Spring in drills 1 inch deep and 1 conovkr's colossal asparagus. _ 4 - foot apart. Transplant the following Spring into permanent hills 3 feet apart each way, three plants in a hill. They recjuire rich soil-, plenty of moisture and protection with leaves or earth during the Winter. The plant is ready for use just before the flowers expand. The underside of the head is the edible part, the leaves being separated after cooking. Three ounces of seed are needed to 100 yards of row. The Jerusalem Artichoke is raised from tubers, and may be planted in same manner as Potatoes. They are very hardy and will stand our coldest weather. Enormously productive, they are suitable for table use, and are largely used for feeding stock. For information as to the method of planting and quantity required, see Potatoes. GIANT WAX, OR BUTTER BUSH BEAN. BEANS- DWARF, BUSH or SNAP. Plant as soon as danger from the frcst is past, in light, warm soil, in drills about two inches deep and two feet apart, three inches apart in the drill, or in hills three to four feet apart. Avoid cul- tivating when wet with rain or dew, as this will injure the crop ; but hoe often when dry. Plant every two weeks for a succession. One quart will plant about 200 hills, or a drill of 100 feet. — 6 BEANS, POLE. Being tbiidor, they ought to be planted when the ground is dry warm. A well-manured, sandy loam suits them the best. Plant in four feet apart, six or eight beans to the hill eyes down- ward ; afterwards thin to three plants in a hill. Set poles eight or ten feet long, before planting seed. One quart of seed plants 100 to 200 feet of row, according to size of beans. BEET. Select a rich, mellow soil, sow in Spring as early as the ground can be worked, in drills one foot apart and one inch deep ; thin tc eight inches apart. For winter use sow in June. Cultivate often. One ounce of ssed will sow 100 feet ; six to eight pounds are required to seed an acre. and hills MANGEL. BDMAND'S BLOOD TURNIP BEET. Sow in April and May in thoroughly ploughed, well manured soil, in drills two inches deep and about 18 inches apart. Thin out to 12 inches, and keep the weeds down by frequent hoeing and cultivating. Four to six pounds are required per acre. SUGAR BEETS. Sugar Beets are not as heavy yielders as the foregoing, but are of superior quality, containing a larger amount of aacharrine matter. Thou- sands of acres are planted with Sugar Beets in Europe for the manufac- ture of sugar. They are excellent for feeding cows, improving wonder- fully the quantity and the quality of the milk. Cultivation same as Mangel - ft BROCCOLI. This plant resembles Cauliflower, but is hardier and of less delicate flavor. Sow early in May and transplant late in Juno or early in July to a rich mellow bed. Cultivate as late cabbage. One ounce will produce 2,000 plants. BRUSSELS SPROUTS, Although not in general use in this country, this is a most delicious vegetable. The seeds should be sown in March or April in the hot bed, or in the open ground when the weather permits. When the plants are three inches high they should be transplanted and culti- vated the same as cabbages or cauliflowers. The early ones will bo ready for the table in September ; the later ones, for winter use, should be har- vested before cold weather, and stored the same as cal)bag08 or cauli- flowers. The small heads which grow along the stem are the eatable parts of this vegetable, and when boiled like a cabbage, or stewed with cream like cauliflower, are very tender and delicious. The leaves should be broken -lown in the Fall to give the little cabbages room to grow. SIMMERS MATCHLESS FLAT DUTCH CABBAGE. — 7 — CABBAGE. The reciuirements for a good crop are rich soil, deep plowing, high manuring, aooi) hkki> and thorough afterculture. Sometimes a fall planting of seed and a removal of the young plants to cold frames for the winter is frequently resorted to to secure a very early crop, but it is usual to sow the seed in Febiuary or March in hot-beds, and transplant in late April or early May to open ground, or to sow early in the open ground. Set the plants in rows two feet apart, and 12 to 18 inches apart in the row. A dusting of plaster or air-slacked lime, or a handful of ashes thrown upon the plants as they appear above ground will help prevent the attack of cabbage fly. For second early, sow in April and transplant in May. For lute crops sow in May and transplant in July, setting the plants in rows ♦^^hree feet apart, and two feet apart in the rows. One ounce of seed will produce ...jout 2,000 plants and sow an area of 40 square feet. The purchase of cheap cabbage seed is the poorest investment in the world ; the failure can never be known until an entire season's labor and outlay is lost. CARDOON. The Cardoon resembles the Artichoke, though it is larger in size, while its flowers are smaller. It is cultivated for its blanched leaf stalks and the midrib of its leaves, which are used in salads and soups. Sow early in Spring, one and one-half inches deep, in rows two feet apart, and thin to about 12 inches in the row. Earth up, like celery, when of proper height. CARROTS. A light sandy loam, well tilled and manured the pre- vious year best suits the Carrot. For early crop sow as early as the ground can be worked, in drills ten inches apart, and thin to five inches in the rows. The French Horn, owing to its extreme earliness, is used for hot-bed culture. OCEBANDE OB OXHBABT CABBOT. — 8 — Late Borts, the long and half-long varieties (main crop), sow from middl of May until first of ^July in drills 12 to 14 inches apart. Thin out t^ 6 and 7 inches in the row. Keep the hoe at work. One ounce of seed sows 150 feet of row. CAULIFLOWER. Cauliflower ought to receive a similar treatment to Cabbage, except that it requires an extra rich soil, an occasional application of liquid manure and fre- q u e n t watering especially when heading. Early sorts in this lati- tude are mostly sown in February or March in hot- beds, transplanted once before setting in open ground, and finally trans- planted before the middle of April in rich deeply-vt^orked soil, two feet by 15 inches apart. Late sorts are sown and cultivated like late cabbage. When heading tie the top leaves together to protect from exposure to the sun. A half ounce of seed sows 100 yards of row and gives about 2,000 plants. No seed is more important than this, as every gardener knows. It is one of tbi' seeds which in buying price should never be questioned. CELERIAC, or TURNIP-ROOTED CELERY. Sow early in Spring. Transplant in May into rich, mellow soil in rows 18 inches apart and 6 inches in the row. Water in dry weather. Littlt or no earthing is required. The turnip-shaped roots, for which the is grown, are ready in October, and are used in souj)"? and as a salad. One ounce will sow 50 feet of row. SIMMERS GILT-KDGE OAUUFLOWBB. -- 9 '- CELERY. Sow the seed late in March or early in April on fine well-worked soil. Cover lightly, or, better still, roll or press it in. Shade the young plants for a week or ten days, and do not let the soil dry out. Cut ' them once or twice before setting out, to make them stocky. When from four to six inches high transplant into broad shallow trenches, or to level ground, setting dwarf soits into rows three feet apart, and tall sorts four feet apart, six inches apart in the rows. Set out every two or three weeks for a succession. The soil chosen should be light, highly manured, partially shaded and moist or near water, as the plants must be freely watered in dry weather. Earthing up checks growth, and should not begin until the plants are quite well grown ; then earth up gradually, keeping the leaf stalks close to- gether so that the soil may not fall into the'centre of the plant, but never earth up in wet weather, nor when dew is on the plants. The plants intended for winter and spring use need not be bleached until laid up. For win- ter storage dig in well drained soil a trench one foot wide and as deep as the height of the celery. To this remove the stalks with roots attached. Set them upright, closely packed, but not crowded. paris golden yellow cblkry. Cover with boards to protect from rain, and later with straw uv leaves to protect from severe cold. One ounce of seed produces 3,000 plants. A clever method of tile blanching has been aevised which is a saving of time, labor and space, with only the first cost of the tile as an offset. At the time of earthing up cover each plant in alternate rows with a section _ 10 — of three-inch tile, drawing up enough earth to firm it. The stalks will come out clear white, crisp and tender, without dirt or rust. These rows can be two feet apart, and then aflford enough earth to bank up the alter- nate rows, or it can be stored for winter use. CHERVIL. Sow in a deep, mellow, rich seed-bed, in drills nine to twelve inches apart and cover two inches deep with fine soil. Cultivate like parsley The leaves are used for soups and salads. One ounce of seed will sow 100 feet of drill. CHICORY. Its dried roots are used as a substitute for, or as an ingredient of coffee. Sow in good rich soil half an inch deep and cultivate like carrots. In fall cut the roots in pieces about an inch in length, string and dry like apples. The dried roots are roasted and ground like coffee, or the roots may be blanched for a salad. One ounce sows 100 feet of drill. SWEET CORN. The soil best suited for Corn for an early crop is a well enr'jhed sandy loam. The planting should never be done until the weather is settled and warm, as heat is indispensable to the healthy growth of corn. The first planting should be made about middle of May, and successive plantings con- tinued every two weeks, until first week in July, which date is the latest which corn can be planced to ensure a crop of green ears. Plant in hills three or four feet apart according to size of variety or strength of soil, or in drills three feet apart, and eight inches apart in the drill. Cultivate often and thoroughly. One quart of seed plants 100 yards of row. CORN SALAD, Sow in Spring in drills one foot apart. Keep clean from weeds. It will mature in six or eight weeks. For early Spring use, sow in Septem- ber, thickly in drills one-quarter inch deep. Tread the ground if dry weather. Protect with litter when cold weather comes and winter over like spinach. One ounce will sow thirty-tive feet of row. .'»'»> '^ fit-,-- r ^^'^':^€ 11 CRESS or PEPPER GRASS. Sow thickxy in early Spring in drills one foot apart, and follow every two weeks with a new sowing as it quickly runs to seed. Water Cress should be sown along the margin of ditches, ponds, or, better still, of slow running streams. It requires no care except to free it at 6r8t from weeds. One ounce sows 100 feet of drill. CUCUMBER. For early use sow in hot-houses on small sods over- turned, or in small pots plunged in earth. As soon as danger from frost is over, transplant, with sod, so as not to disturb theplants, into hills in the open ground. For gene, ral crop sow from about the first to the middle of May in rich, mellow, warm soil. Put a shovel- .^^ ^ ful of well- rotted manure in each hill and cover it to two inches[deep with fine earth. On this sow the seed, about eight or ten seeds to a hill ; cover one half-inch with earth and press down. A liberal quantity of seed should be sown in each hill, say twenty to forty seeds, that there may be enough plants to survive the depredations of the striped cucumber bug or the borers. The young plants should be dusted every few mornings with ashes, plaster, or slug shot, to destroy these pests, and as soon as the plants are sufficiently large to take care of themselves, they should jbe thinned out to three or four plants in a hill. If the picking is carefully attended to, and all the fruit picked off as soon as large enough, the vines will continue to grow and bear all summer, especially if they are in a tttiufcii. DiiaUjr BitutitlOii. XL tiic iiuit 13 iliiowcu tu TiyBii, tiic vines vvxii ury up and die. For pickles plant from June to middle of July. One ounce pf th^ seed is sufficient to plant about fifty hills, 12 — EGG PLANT. Sow the seed in a hot-bed in March or April. When about three inches high pot the plants and plunge in earth ; transplant to open ground in May or June, according to the warmth of the season. Uniform heat is essential to this plant, and it rarely recovers from the least chill in its early growth. Set out, according to rich- ness of soil, two or three feet apart each way. One ounce of seed makes 2,000 plants. ENDIVE. For early use sow about the middle of April, but for the main crop in June or July in shallow drills. When two or three inches high transplant or thin out to one foot each way. When full long]purplb egg plant. grown blanch the inner leaves by gathering and tying up the outer ones at the top ; but tie up only when the leaves are dry and blanch in succes- sion, as it keeps only a short time after blanch- ing. For winter use take up with earth and plant closely in frames or a dry cellar. One ounce of seed sows 160 leet of drill. GARLIC. Garlic sets should be planted early in Spring in a light, rich soil in rows one foot apart, and from three to Bvt inches apart in the rows. CUBLED ENDIVE. — 13 — Cultivate like onions. In August the tops will die off and the crop is ready to gather. Garlic is used for flavoring soups, stews, sausage, etc. HORSE RADISH. This pungent root is a great favorite as a relish in the early Spring and is a very pleasant appetizer, at a season when we have been without fresh vegetables for several months. It is raised from pieces of root three or four inches in length, from a quarter to a half-inch in diameter ; these slips are made from the tails or rootlets cut off in trimming the root for grating. Keep the slips in moist earth in a cool cellar until Spring. The roots may then be planted in a trench six inches apart. KALE or BORECOLE. The Kales are ex- cellent as greens for Winter and Spring use. The crown or centre of the head cut off so as to include the leaves is the eatable part. They are more hardy than cabbage, and are improved by frost, but the time and manner of sowing, and the cul- ture are identical with cabbage. One ounce produces 2,000 plants or 100 yards of row. DWARF GREEN CCRLBD KALE. KOHLRABL This vegetable, seemingly an intermediate between cabbage and turnip, has value both as a table delicacy and feeding stock. The edible part is the enlarged stem just above the surface of the ground, which is in prime condition when only half-grown. The full-grown bulb is tough and stringy. For early use sow in hot-bed, transplant and cultivate like early cabbage. For Winter use sow the middle ,' June 18 inches apart, transplanting, or, as this is difficult., thinning out to eight inches in the row. One ounce of seed affords 2,000 plants. u LEEK. This hardy vegetable is allied to the onion, but has a more delicate flavor. It attains suit- able size for use the first year but never seeds until the second year. The whole plant has use? and the larger its size the better, therefore no bed for leeks can be made too rich. Plant the seed in April, in drills one foot apart and one inch deep. When six to eight inches high, remove the plants to deep, rich soil, setting them in rows 12 to 15 inches apart in the rows. Place as deep as possible, and during growth draw the earth to them to blanch the stems. One ounce will produce about 2,000 plants. LETTUCE. LARGE MUSSELBURGH LEEK t x. Lettuce, the most used of all the salads, is easy of culture, being free from all diseases and insects. It requires rich, moist soil, clean cultivation and plenty of water. This will give the quick growth on which depends its appear- ance, tenderness and flavor. Sow in a hot-bed in early spring, and as soon as the ground can be well worked transplant in good, rich ground to'rows eighteen inches apart, and eight to ten inches in the rows. For a later supply plant every two weekg jianson cabbage lettuce, — 15 — from the middle of April ^until July, choosing varieties according to their heat resistance, and their tendency to remain in condition without seedinir. If sown to be cut young, sow thickly in drills or broadcast ; but if fine, strong heads are desired, sow in drills one-fourth inch deep, 1.5 inches apart and thin, rather than transplant, to 12 inches apart in the rows. One ounce of seed produces 3,000 plants. MUSK MELON. These universal favorites are too often neglected, owing to the idea that pa his cos LhrrucK. they must have sandy soil, and require special skill to grow them. If a variety suited to your soil is planted and given fair attention melons may be had in abundance. If the garden has a southern slope that will be the best place for melons, but they will do almost as well on the level. Plant the seed when the ground is dry and warm. Plant from six to twelve seeds in hills six feet apart each MONTREAL MUSK MELON. way, and when danger from bugs is past thin to three vigorous plants in a hill. If manure is mixed in the hills at time of planting see to it that it is old and well-rotted. When the shoots are a foot long SIMMERS' DOMINION MUSK MELON. — 16 — pinch off the tips to make thorn bmnching and to strengthen the vine. Thin out the fruit if it is excessive. The remaining melons will thereby increase m size and ripen earlier. Do not T)lant near pumpkins and squashes, as they hybridize. One ounce of seed plants 75 hills. WATER MELON. '^^^'^^ are also supposed to require special conditions, but they can be raised under the same circumstances as Musk Melons. What they most need is a liberal feeding of well-rotted manure. If this latter can be obtained a good sized hole should be dug and filled in even *^o half a barrel to a hill. If this kind of hill be made, the larger varieties may be grown with suc- cess. Unless conditions are favorable, however, WATER MELON. ,1 ,, "'« ittvuittuie. However, the smaller yanebes are recommended, they being equally fine in quality. Plant m hills eight to ten feet apart each way. and cultivate like the Musk Melon. To secure the largest fruit have but one or two melons to a vine. One ounce of seed will plant about 60 hills. CITRON. Grown for preserv- ing purposes only, and being a species of Water Melon, requires the same cultivation. MARTYNIA. This is cultivated for its seed pods, which when half arown are ^^" °*' mushrooms. tender and much esteemed for picklmg. Sow the seed in May or .June in I I 1 I — 17 — I I open ground three feet apart each way. Thin to one ph«it in a hill. One ounce plants about 200 hilla. MUSHROOM SPAWN. In preparation for a Mushroom bed procure fresh horse manure free from litter or straw, and old i)aature soil. Mix thoroughly in proportion of three parts horse manure to one part loam. Turn daily until the ex- treme heat 18 out of it. Then, in some sheltered place, if possible, make out of this compost a bed four feet wide, eight inches deep and as long as desired, pressed solidly. Leave this until the heat subsides to 90 degrees, then plant pieces of spawn the size of a wal- nut in holes two or three inches deep, six inches apart each way ; cover with the compost, and in the course of a week or ten days the spawn will be diffused through the whole bed. Now cover with two inches of fresh soil, and over this spread three or four inches of hay, straw or litter. If the surface becomes dry, wet with lukewarm water. Keep ^^^^^^■■^^^■Biiiiftiii..Jl^^f an even temperature of. 50= to 60\ One brick will plant two by six feet. edible mushrooms. For more detailed instructions how to grow Mushrooms, we recom- mend - Simmers' Mushroom Culture," a twenty-four page pamphlet ; price, by mail, 10 cents. r- =, r t- ROBINSON'S MUSHROOM CULTURB.-A book bound in cloth, giving directions in how to prepare a mushroom bed and raise mushrooms. Price, by mail. 50 cents. MUSHROOMS. How to Grow Them.-By Wm. Falconer The most complete book ever published on the cultivation of mushrooms' 1 he writer is a practical man who has devoted many years to experiments with mushrooms. Per copy, $1.50, post paid. — 18 MUSTARD. A desirable spring salad. Can be so«rn as soon as the ground is free from frost, and successive sowings should be made every two or three weeks. It grows rapidly and must be cut when young. Sow in shallow drills one foot apart, and when three inches high thin out five or six inches apart. One ounce of seed sows about 76 feet of drill. NASTURTIUM. A very ornamental climber, much cultivated for the green seed pods which make very delicate pickles. The leaves are also used for salad. Plant in May, in drills one inch deep, and give them support to climb upon. One ounce of seed sows about twenty feet of drill. OKRAorGUMBO. Sow in May, in hills or drills three feet apart. If in hills thin out to three plants : if in drills, to ten inches apart in the drills. Seed thickly and cover one inch deep. The young, onion. green seed-pods are used in soups or like asparagus. The seeds are sometimes used as a substitute for coffee. One ounce of seed sows tw enty-five feet of row. ONIONS. The Old Way— Any land that will raise a good crop of corn, except stiflf clay or gravelly soil, is suitable for onions. We prefer a sandy loam, with a light mixture of clay, as it is much easier to work, and produces good crops. Land that has been worked for two years pre- viously in hoed crops, and heavily ma- ONION. — 19 — nured for these crops, and kept carefully free from weeds, would be in a most desirable condition to begin with. In black muck marsh lands, large crops of fine onions are grown, but the land must be well drained The onions from the first crop on this class of soil are apt to be soft and rather inclined to run to " Scallions" or " Stiff-necks." However we have seen very fine, well-shaped bulbs grown the first season. Use well- rotted manure freely— fifty loads to the acre will not be too much Spread the manure evenly on the land, and plow it under late in the fall, or very early in the spring. As early in the spring as the ground can be worked without injury, give it a thorough harrowing and raking. A quantity of tine ground bone or good fertilizer worked into the soil at this time IS very beneficial to the crop. Also another dressing of fertilizer just before they form bottoms, and if a quantity of wood ashes is added it will do no harm. In order to save time and labor,U8e great pains in mark- ing off the rows to have them perfectly straight and of uniform width, less than a foot apart. Sow the seed just as soon as the ground can be worked in good shape, using a Model Seed Drill if possible to be had ; and it is almost useless to undertake even a small patch without a drill and hand cul- tivator, the work being so much easier, and good machines can now be had very cheap. Sow seeds at the rate of four or five pounds to the acre. Before you begin to sow, try the drill on a board or floor, until you get the drop just right. Seed should be covered from one-half inch to one inch deep, depending somewhat on the condition of the soil and weather at the time of sowing. Onions should be thinned out when about the size of a rye straw, disturbing the remaining ones as little as possible. As they grow on top of the ground they may be left quite thick, even if they do crowd each other. Bear in mind that you must keep the weeds down from the start, and that it is impos- sible to grow good onions on poor land and in a careless manner. As soon as the onions are up so they can be seen the length of the row, give them the first hoeing, just skimming the ground between the rows. Never hoe deep and always hoe the soil from the row never to it. In a few days give them a second hoeing, this time up' close to the plants, after which weeding must be commenced. This must be carefully and thoroughly done ; remove every weed that can be seen in the row. In about ten days they will require another hoeing and weeding similar to the last, and two weeks later give them still another hoeing, and, if necessary, another weeding. When tops die and fall, the crop should be pulled, throwing about four rows together to dry. In about a week, turn or stir them, and when the tops have become per- fectly dry, cut them off one inch from the bulb. In a few days more they are ready for storing. White varieties are apt to discolor and should be taken in as soon as pulled. Store in some coolj well-ventilated nioce— cellars are usually too warm 'and ,damp— some o'utbuilding or up-s'tairs — 20 — room Ih much preferable. Thev will Hfanrl a «-«„♦ ^ ^ * weather witho^t^njury. Never^a^'i'^ wlfen^rren bT^ndelrio keep them about the freezing point without freezing e«»«leavor to The New Way-Consists in transplanting onions instead of sow iri: the seed where It is to grow. This practice is not commcn amZ gardeners although they are aware that onions may be TuccessZw Lrtrov rtotd.%^tit\^.ir^^^^^^^ stand of plants (2) saving of laW a^ f Zt "itii'a ZTi^) a'dvL" t time and maturity ripening at least four weeks earlier, humIS it possible to use the land for other crops, (4) increasing the cronrom 50 to 100 per cent, according to variety, (5) improvement in appea?ance and market value-their large and uniform size and early ripenSbrinHu^ck sales at good prices, (6) takes less seed, (7) a surer rrr'becTufeThev have a longer time to grow before hot, dry weather sets in ^ The seed is sown in the green-house, hot-bed or cold frame about SIX weeks before the ground outside is expected to be fitlr thTplants o7irthe"7i/ of' he'^bJd' '''• ^" ^^^t^ti^^^Vn flat or shalloltx ', or m the so 1 of the beds, m rows three inches apart. Sow evenlv cover carefully one inch deep, after which firm the sc^^l well wkh a piec^ give 6,000 to 8 000 plants. As soon as the ground is dry enough to work we 1 outside, it should be prepared in the manner deiribed anS the plants transplanted from two to three inches apart^ln rovrs 12 to 14 inches apart, firming the soil well around the ro^ts? aking care to set plants not too deep, but about the same depth as they were Culti- vate as in the ordinary way, but you will have very little hand weed ing to do and then it will not be absolutely necessary to get down on your hands and knees as it was in the old way. If onfons are wanted for bunching green, they may be set closer than two inches This plan may not be advisable for those who grow on a large scale especially so where soil, climate and seasons are well adap ed to the growth of the onion, but it can be readily seen that it has decided ad vantages for the general market gardener, because he already has the necessary hot-beds, etc. and can use the early bunch onions a^s well as tintage!^ ''^' """''' ^"^ ^^' ^^'^""'^ ^^^^' '^' ^^«P ^' ^^ to good ad- The foreign varieties— Mammoth, Pomneii PH^o TaI-av pjo^*. Rocca, Mammoth Silver King, etc., gi^e a 3er gaki in sfze than Z ordinary sorts Danvers, Wethersfiid, etc., gro^n l^rthis m^^hod Oar Prize Taker (American) gave excellent results in size and quality the past season But it should be remembcu^t 1 hat the foreign sort^s are not as good keepers overwinter, and si . •.. h-^ ,oJd early. ^ Handsome on,on. can easily be grown to measure H . 4 inches in^diameter an| — 21 they sell roadily at fancy prices ; and for bunching onions, the early foreign varieties, like White Harletta and Silverskin, may be had nearly as soon as from sots or button onions from vhich bunching onions are usually grown. By this method these two varieties ripen up very early, and grow double the size they do in the ordinary way, and sell at good prices long before any other onion is in the market. Beware of Cheap Seed— It costs but one or two dollars more per acre to use thu ver;^ best seed : With the one you are sure of Goou RE8ULTH, with th" Other you are just as sure of partial, if not ENTiRK failure. For descriptions of various reliable varieties see our Seed Annual. ONION SETS. Seta furnish large onions early, as well as the first green onions for table use Plant the sets as early in Spring as pos- sible, in shallow drills, one foot apart and four inches between sets. Cover slightly. They can be used in a green state in June, and are ripened off by July or August. To grow sets, sow the seed early in Spring very thickly in beds or drills. When the tops are down, gather the little bulbs, dry and store. Shallots, Potato Onions and White Multipliers are grown only from bulbs, and should be planted in April, May or June. Select largo bulbs and set them six inches apart, their crowns just below the surface. PICKLING ONION. PARSLEY. Parsley is used for seasoning soups, meats, etc., for salads and gar- nishing, and as an ornamental border in the flower garden. It thrives best in rich, mellow soil. Since the seed germinates very slowly, the plants sometimes not appearing for three or four weeks, sow as early as possible, and soak the seed a few hours in luke-warm water before sowing. Sow thickly in rows one foot apart ; and coyer one half inch deep. Thin — 22 — out to six inches apart in the rows, or, better still, transplant and cut back. The finest and most perfect leaves come from frequent transplant- ing and catting back. One ounce of seed sows about 140 feet of drill. PARSNIP. The Parsnip has value not alone as a table vegetable, but it is also one of the best roots for stock feeding. Its long, slender roots call for a deep, melloV, rich soil. A shallow bed or dressing of fresh uianure will make short forked roots of inferior quality. fJow early in spring in drills fifteen inches apart and one-half inch deep. When the plants are two or three inches high thin out to six inches in the rows. Cultivate often until the leaves cover the ground. These roots are improved by frost, and the bulk of the crop should be left in the ground over winter. Such as are wanted for immediate use store in a dry cellar with a covering of sand. One ounce of seed contains about 6,000 seeds and will sow 150 feet of drill. PARSNIP. PEAS. Peas succeed best in light, dry, loamy soil. Early and dwarf sorts require richer soil than the late varieties. If ma- nure is used let it be old and well rotted, or there vill be a rank growth of vines with few pods. Sow the early, smooth, round sorts as early in spring as the ground can be worked Seeds of wrinkled varieties are more liable to rot if ground is cold, and should be planted later. Sow all the varieties quite early and depend for suc- ceBsion upon the different times PEAS , — 23 — of ripening of the various sor s, or from the first sowing, sow every two weeks until June for a succession. After that there is danger of mildew. Discontinue then until August, when a planting of an extra early or early sort will often produce a good crop. Sow the seed in single drills, three feet apart for dwarf sorts, and four for late sorts, or in double drills six or eight inches apart, one inch apart in the drill, and not less than four inches deep, or for late sorts seven or eight inches deep, bince deep plant- ing prevents mildew and prolongs the season. Cultivate well and draw the earth twice to the vines during growth. Stake the tall varieties when they begin to vine. Pick the pods as soon as tit, and allow none to ripen on the vines, as they then will cease bearing. One quart of the small seeded sorts will sow 175 feet of drill. One quart of the large seeded sorts will sow 120 feet of drill. Support must be furnished for tall growing varieties, but when grown as a market crop peas are never staked. PEPPER. Peppers are highly valued for their pung- ent flavor, and are used in flavoring soups, meats, ets. ; also used for pickles and man- goes. Sow in a hot- bed in April and trans- plant to open ground in warm settled weath- er, to rows two feet apart and 13 inches in the rows. Or, when all danger of frost is I)assed, sow at once in open ground, and thin to same distance as above. Any rich fer- tilizer or bird manure, if applied and stirred into the soil when the plants are six inches high, will be of great benefit. Hoe frequently. One ounce will produce 2,000 plants. PEPPERS. — 24 _ POTATOES, In drills 3 feet apart ; 12 to H bushels to the acre. 1 peck will plant about 126 hills. The potato, like all robust-growing vegetables, can be grown with varying success on soils of all kinds, and in all conditions of ffrtuTty. Tut ubi ctto d "^''' r '^ i? ' ""'^ ^^^"^- ^" ^" ^-^^ -"« >t is 'n.or subject to disease, and the flavor also is much inferior. In breaking, un year m lieu of manure. Manure is applied either in I'ows or hills or lerable. If the soil is good, but little manure is required. In hiohlv enriched soil the plants are more liable to disease thai wh n grownt Zorhf r "r*"^*"yg-d- The best fertilizers are those of a dry or For w J TT' ^" P^*''"'' ^^'^ «"Perphosphate of lime and bone dust, a rn Jf/''.^ ^'^ *'^ P"*^'"^*^^y beneficial, as they not only promote covelrifrr ""'^'T' '" '"'^ °^ "'^^^ ^^-^ *^-« '-^ -part, sTtuat^na two' 7"^ 'u" '^^^^ ''"^ ^"^'^^ ^^^P' ^"^ - -Id' - situations two and one-half or three inches will be sufficient. POTATO CULTURE, By Elbert S. Carman, editor of The Rural New Yorker, and originator of the foren^ost of potatoes- Ruml New Yorker No. 2. This book gives the result of 15 years experiment work on the Rural grounds. How to increase the crop without corresponding cost of production ; Manures and tZu^TI V'"^'''^'' ^' ^^^"^'"^^ ^^^^ ' ^"I^"-= The Rurat Trench System ; Varieties, etc. Price, cloth, 75c; paper, 50c. PUMPKIN. Pumpkins are easily grown and are profitable for stock feeding. At time of corn planting scat- ter a few seeds in every fourth or fifth hill, or for a large crop sow in May, in good warm soil in hills eight to ten feet apart each way, four plants to MAMMOTH CHKE8B PUMPKIN. — 25 — a hill. Avoid plantina near other vines as they hybridize, will plant 15 hills ; one pound 200 or 300 hills. One ounce or 80ABLET WHITE TIP TURNIP RADISH. RADISH. Radishes thrive best in a light, rich, mel- low soil, and to bring out their mild qualities they must make a quick and tender growth ; heavy or clay soils not only delay their I growth, but produce a much inferior crop in appearance and flavor. Sow for very early use in hot-beds during the Winter and early Spring, or later on in sheltered borders, in well-manured, deeply dug, and finely raked soil ; if not well stimulated into a rapid growth, they become fibrous and tough ; sow m drills 10 inches apart, and thin to 2 inches in the rows. Sow at inter vals of two or three weeks until September for a succession. As soon as the first leaves appear, sprinkle with soot, wood- ashes, or air slacked lime, or slug shot, to save them from the little black cabbage and turnip fly. The winter varieties should be sown in July and August ; like the turnip, they make the best growth in autumn, and must be taken up before severe frost, and stored away in a cool cellar in sand, or a pit, where they will keep tender and crisp all winter ; before using put in cold water, which adds to their freshness. RHUBARB (PIE PLANT), a • A -1 • J -11 • , , , SCARLET OLIVE RADISH. feow in April in drills one inch deep and one foot apart ; when plants are three to four inches high, thin out to 10 inches apart and cultivate well during the season ; in the fall or follow- ing spring transplant into hills about three feet apart each way. The soil must be very deep and heavily manured. Give a top dressing of manure every fall. One ounce of seed nrodv.ces about 1 000 plants. 26 _ SALSIFY (Vegetable Oyster). Sow early in spring in drills 15 inches apart and one to two inches deep ; thin to six inches apart. Soil should be very deep and mellow, in order that the long root may grow straight down. Store same as carrots for winter use, or they can be left in the ground until spring. One ounce of seed svill sow about 50 feet of drill. . SCORZONERA, or BLACK SALSIFY. Treatment 'same as for Salsify, which it closely resembles, except that the skin is black. Soak in cold water a few hours before cooking, to remove the bitter taste. One ounce of seed will sow 75 feet of drill. SEA KALE. Sea Kale is only used after blanch- ing. The midrib is the part used. Plants started in the hot-bed in the spring are fit for blanching one year earlier than seed sown in the open ground. If in the open air, sow the seed 11 ree feet apart in the row. Select very rich, well- drained soil, spade deep ly and sow in drills one foot apart and one inch deep. For spring and summer use, make the first sowing early in March, and continue at intervals I 'f two or three weeks until the middle of July. Sow in August _ or September for winter ii 15 inches ep ; thin i be very the long I. Store , or they 1 spring. It 50 feet ACK Y, which the skin »w hours e bitter sow 75 blanch. ; used, in the he open •ow. - 27 - or early spring use, and protect with a covprinrr ^.t «*■«„ j ■ weather/ Onl ounce will sow l^l'tTl^^ %tuZ t^^^f^'f are required for an acre. ^" t^fQUe pounds SQUASH. «tte/f^^^ -- "^:^r gj^:- nSgt^^^^^^^ rg:rrs.nrroitL^p-^^^^^^^^^ Like a/plan^ts of^ thisTa^^^^i-^t'L^^^^^^^^^ come settled and warm. Light soils are best suited to their growth, and t IS most economical of manure to prepare hills for the seeds iS the oX ary manner by incorporating two or three shovelf u' of well-rotted manure vvith the soil for each hill. For the bush varieties, the hills should bTfrom hree to four feet each way and for the running sorts from six to eigM feet. Eight or ten seeds should be sown in each hill, thinning out after they have attained their rough leaves, leaving three or four of the strongest plants. Three ounces will sow 100 yards. Four to five pounds Zlt quired per acre. ^ "«o aio le TOMATO. For early plants sow in hot-beds early in March, in dvilU five inches apart and h inch deep ; when the plants are about two inches high trans plant into another hot-bed four inches apart,each way: plant out in the ope« — 28 — ground early in May, orfasj soon as danger from frost is over, four feet apart each way in hiiis, which should have a shovel- ful of well-rotted ma- nure mixed with the soil. Water freely at time of transplanting ; when the tirst fruit is set.pinch off the ends of the branches to obtain early fruit. Sufficient plants for a small garden can be grown in a shallow box or a large flower- pot, by placing it in a sunny window in a warm room or kit- chen. For late use, sow in a sheltered border in May, and set out the plants in July; the green fruit can be picked off be- fore frost and be rip- 4. ■ • J.1 rt, , . „ fined under glass. Bv traming the Tomato vines on trellises or tying to stakes, they will increase m productiveness ; the fruit will ripen better and be of finer quality. TURNIP. For early use sow the small sorts as soon as the ground can be worked in the spring m drills 14 inches apart ; the field varieties 30 inches. As the seed is very fine it should be covered but slightly, excepting in very dry weather Of the early varieties thin the plants to six inches and the Swedes f^fi, '^^1 /?"/""* winter use, the early kinds should be sown from the middle of July to the middle of August, and the Swedes from themiddleof June to the middle of July. ^a irom AROMATIC HERBS. Aromatic or Sweet Herbs are worthy of more attention than thev generally receive. If cooks used them more freely, doctors would have less occasion for prescribing them. The soil of the herb bed should be mellow and warm, but not over-rich. Drpd fertile s'^il r^r^^'^v^o- -r --. crease in size and foliage at the expense of fragrance, strength, and flavor. Ihe seeds should be sown as eirly in spring as the ground can be prepared. c ar sa pr wi CO eg pres so SI wati 29 — ON THE CULTURE OF FLOWERS FROM SEEDS. ^O much depends on careful sowing and planting in the cultivation y :j of flowers that we do not think it amiss to add a few ~Z. ^^ on th,s .mportant subject, in the hope that they mayCrh O aome d,ffloulties out of the way of the novice in l^ZZT ..^ • .,• V ' ®°'' '" "'""'' ""^ ^-"^ « ao™, Should be rich and nounshmg, but not too heavy, a light, rich loam, well mixed with sand and leaf. mold, anC, better still with some powdered "LartaTt preferable; press thesoil down rather firmly, so that it will „„. T u watered and disturb the young plants. Sc'a'tter th eds l: hTsurloT cover with s^ted earth, and do not allow it to dry. An absolute essential of successful flower growing is Z, to b„^ the s"ed too deep. The very best of seed cannot grow when chok- ed with soil. Amateurs fail here oftener than at any other point, and their seeds and seedsmen are unjustly blamed for the failure. The depth of planting depends on the size of seed. Large seed, such as Sweet Peas and Morning Glory may be cover- ed from I to 1^ inches ; such as Zinnia, Mignonette and Candytuft, from | to ^ inch. In the case of very small seeds, such as Petunia, Lo- belia, etc., the covering of soil should be very thin, barely hiding the seeds and MIGNONETTE PLANT. pressing down With a small board or the pal^rthT^rj:!™! watreed, ,t ,s even advisable to moisten the surface of the soil before — 30 — Sowing instead of afterward. Flat seeds, such as Zinnia and Cobcee are best put in edgewise, being sometimes liable to rot when sown flat. Sun and light must be excluded from the newly sown seed— cover with paper, or a piece of moist flannel, held down by sticks or stones until the seed has germinated, and then admit gradually the air and light. As the plants grow strong, the tall sorts should be provided with neat stakes, and the climbers supplied with trellises or other support. After this, the main requisites of the plants are plenty of water durin» dry weather and entire freedom from weeds. By following the special instructions for the several classes, one can hardly fail of success. We have placed all the varieties under one of the following heads : Alinuals, plants which flower and produce their seed within the year in which they are sown ; Biennials, plants which bloom and produce their seed the second year ; and Perennials, which live and bloom for a series of years. In the lists of varieties under these headings, we desig- nate the hardy sorts by the letter H. ; half-hardy sorts by H. H. ; tender sorts by T. ANNUALS Annuals are usu- ally sown in one of the three following meth- ods : 1st, in Spring, in hot beds, or in pots, set in the hot-beds ; 2nd, in Spring, in the open ground, either in special seed beds or in their permanent places ; 3rd, in autumn. 1. For most an- nuals, the end of March or early April is sufficiently early to sow in hot-beds. Prepare the bed early in March, and when ready for sowmg, press the soil down rather firmly, form a nice even surface, water It dry and sow the seed on the top and cover Haliflv w,-fl. fine °ift"d -arth • very line seeds do not need covering, only pr°essing well into the earth,' CALENDULA PLANT. - 31 — lomelXi o" """^' ^T '^^''^^ '^Srow. add shade from he sun with planting them to another p^^^^ grow ; keep the bed closed and shaded for two or three davaaftfir possille^X^a^^^^^^ light SOU Plant as directed for hot-beds and cover ^Uhfitrs^td^^^^^^^^ pressing down firmly. As beds in the open air dry out quicUy it is ^^^^^^ to cover all with a thm layer of finely cut moss or W str'aw m finer seeds may be sown in small circles, which can be covered Tt* nitht until germination with an inverted not Open air sowinaJ T™ t ^a from April to June, according to the^weathS! ^" ^^^ ^^ ™*^" *!, ^^t-^?''^'^'' annuals and such as do not bear transplanting well or those which are needed in large numbers, are usually sown wWe the v are to remain, and the process is virtually the same as^above Some Je^ plants such as Poppies, Larkspurs, Bachelor's Buttons and Candjtufr may be sown in permanent places as early as the weather permUs and make much finer plants for their long season. permits, and 3 Autumn Sowing.-Most annuals ripen their seed toward th« end of summer, and the seeds either lie dormant in thnro„rH ,,*?:! spring or start in the fall, and remain inactive duriig the fold wea^hei As this 18 the course of nature, it is not to be wondered at that wkh Pansies, Larkspurs. Forget-me-nots, Collinsia, Gilia, SHene Candvtuft and other hardy plants, autumn sowings produce finer X^ and W^^^^ flowers the following season. Do not sow too early ; nearly al? sorts wfll need considerable protection in our climate--coarsVlitter and over aH a bit of straw mating, by preference. Tenderer sorts should be tram planted into a cold frame and protected. *"^' For the half-hardy and tender annuals, we recommend culture No The average cultivator can scarcely fail to be successful in growina any of the flowers hereafter listed if the general directions aKjven are carried out and some attention bestowed on the more detaikd cultural Tlf/w nT ''^^'^"'' P""'"? on every packet of seeds sent out Wus The best of seed if imoroperlv sown will fpil to ^rrow --.^ ^.- ^ ^^^ mark : do not bury the seeds too deep: = "' '^"^ ^^^"" ^^ '^- — 32 Abroria, H. Ageratum, h. Alonsoa, h. Alyssum, h. Amaranthua, H. Ammobiuin, H. AnaKallis, h, h. Antirrhinum, H. Asperula, h. Asters, h. Balloon Vine, h. Balsam, H. Bartonia, H. Bachelor's Button, H. Bepronia, T. Brachycome, H. h. Browallia, H, h. Cacalia, h. h. Calendrinia, h. Calendula, H. Calliposis, H. Callirhoe, H. Canary Bird Flower, h. Candytuft, H. Castor Oil Bean^ (Ricinus), h. h. Catchfly (Silene), h. Chrysanthemum, h. h, Cockscomb, H. h. h. LIST OF ANNUALS Collinaia, h. Convolvulus (Morning Glory), H. Cornflower (Centaurea Cyanus), h. Cuphea (Cigar plant), H.h Cyclanthera, H. h. Cypress Vine, h. Datura, h. Dianthus, h. Escholtzia, h. Four o'clock (Mirabilis), H. (Marvel of Peru.) Gaillardia, h. Gilia, H. Godetia, H. Gomphrena, H. Gourds, H. Helichrysum, h. Ice Plant, h. h. Jacobaea, H. Linaria, H. Linum, h, Lophospermum, h. h. Lupinus, H. Malva, H. Marigold (Tagetes), h. Momordica (Balsam Apple), H. h. Mignonette, h. Nasturtium (Tropaeol- um), H. Nemophila, h. Nicotiana, h. Nigella, h. Nolana, h. Perilla, h. h. Petunia, h. h. Phlox, H. h. Poppy, H. Portulacca, h. Rhodanthe, h. Salpiglossis, h. h. Salvia, h. Sanvitalia, h. Saponaria, h. Scabiosa, h. Schizanthus, h. Sedum, h. Sensitive Plant, H. Solanum, h. Stocks, H. h. Sunflower (Helianthuo), h Sweet Peas, h. Sweet Sultan, h. Virginia Stocks, h. Xeranthemum, h. h. Zinnia, h. PAN8T PLANT. ^^^^^^ p^^^ BIENNIALS and PERENNIALS. Most hardy plants of this class should be sown in May or June in Sood SOI m a sheltered, semi-shaded situation, in the open air, and gLn good culture throughout the summer. As winter approaches care S ''„X^'\ll'L?Z'^'l'J'\'^^^^^ be found sit ,,nat ..== .xaxdj cxxau young, rail-sown annuals. If potted and wintered in fhe cold frame or cellar and planted out in April or May following hey give the best results. ^ ^ roiiowing t < J i t I t t a t g «- 33 — Daeol- I. lhuD),H h. e, m fiven must ome- ered wing Abobra, h. h. p. Abutilon, x. p. Acanthus, h. p. Aconitum, h. p. Ampelopsifl, H. p. Anemone, h. p. Aquilegia, (Columbine), H. p. Ariatoloobia (Dutoh- mans Pipe), h. h. p. Auricula, H. P. Bocconia, a. p. Campanula, k. p. Canna, h. h. p. Carnation, h. h. p. Centaorea, h. h. p. Centrosema, H. p. Clianthus, h. h. p. Oobsea, H. h. p. Coral Tree (Erythrina), H. h. p. Cowslip, H. P. Dahlia, h. b. p. Daisv (Bellis), h. p. Delphinium (Larkspur), H. p. AND PERENNIALS. U8T OF BIENNIALS Digitalis (Foxglove), H. P. Dolichos, H. p. Euphorbia, H. h. p. Feverfew, h. p. Forget-me-not (Myoso- tis), H. p. Freeaia, h. h. p. Fuchsia, h. h. p. Gentiana, h. p. Geranium, h. h. p. Glaucium, H. p. Heliotrope, H. h. p. Hesperis (Sweet Rocket), H. p. Hollyhock, H. p. Honesty (Lunaria) H. B. Hop, Japanese, H. p. Lantana, h. h. p. Lemon verbena, h. h. p. Lavatera, H. h. p. Linaria Cymb, H. p. Lobelia, h. h. p. Matricaria, h. h. p. Maurandia, h. h. p. Mexican Primrose, Mimulus, H. h. p. Moonflower (Ipomea), H. h. p. Musa, H. h. p. Oxalis, H. h. p. Pansy, h. p. Pentstemon, H. h. p. Platyoodon, h. p. Polyanthus, h. p. Poppies, H. B. Potentilla, h. p. Primrose, h. h. p. Pyrethrum, h. p. Rose, H. p. Rudbeckia, h. p. Salvia, h. h. p. Stevia, h. h. p. Sweet William, h. p. Thunbergia, h. h. B. Verbena, h. h. p. Vinca, h. h. p. Viola, H. p. Wallflower, h. h. p. (CEnothera), h. h, p. SEEDS OF GREEN-HOUSE PLANTS. These can be sown at any season of the year, but extra care sbnnM be given them, especially to such varieties as Begonias cfa ceoSrfas ete as the seeds are very small and delicate. Sow the seeds 1^611 difn^d pans, choosing for soil a fine sandy leaf-mould. press it firmly 8moo«i?he surface and sow the seed very evenly ; cover' ^ith a HgTt sprSkW of sand or not at all lay a pane of glass over the pan, place it in a else ^hZt ^f m"? '^i^^^' ^°«' ^*'^»^«« *^« due to mi'stakes n wateJ^r which should be done very carefully, the seed pans should never & aUowed to dry out as one neglect will kill the seeds just storting, while Aft«r th« T ^*"^ * '^'^^^ ^^°^«" ^* ^«*«' ^i" <«»«« the seeds^ to ro After the plants are up, remove the glass and prick into other pans with the same soil ; great care should be taken not to pull the pUtnts norT^r rootr xLn T^^'f "/ J ^'f ""i'^ * ^'^^^l «^ ''^'^ *"d sWft with go^d wel establiXd fnf h/**^^ *^ -t' transplanting until the young plant? are ^rtlt w • • i^^ "^T ^'''^' ^« "^^'^ «« the Pl»>it8 touch each other transplant again into small pots with similar soil, using the same p?ecau- t on of shading at first. If troubled with green flies, fumigatrocSn ally with tobacco. Besides the above, mott sorts have spedal iSs Tn SoJ?f ^h'^"^' T**'"^.«' ^*f- ^^^^^ «^"«t be consulted in grow ngTem bome of the most popular plants under this head ar- ; ^ ^aiceoiarias, Gloxinias, Smilax Cinerarias, | Impatiens Sultani, TowSs FooB^Fuiwira. 1M« PACKAOC CON - .'l»NT POOO rOH 20 »'LAIITI FOR OW VEM imKBODfliBnR SUNDRY GARDEN RE QUISITES. FOOD FOR FLOWERS or PLANT FOOD Soluble in Water, Free from Odor and Clean to Handle. A fertllizor made expressly for plants grown in the house, garden or conservatory ; clean, free from offensive odor, soluble in water and producing healthy plants, fbib kbom VERMIN, with early and abundant blossoms, to which it im- parts luxuriant growth and rich and brilliant colors. This plant food has bebn sold bt ub to hdndmds OP L0VKB8 OF FL0WKB8 IN CANADA, especially during the winter and spring months, never failing to give entire satis- faction to the purchaser, and has produced great gratification by the surprisingly pleasing results in consequence of its hav- inK been applied according to directions which accompany each package sent out. PRICE-No. 1, Rkodlar Sized Paokaob, suflBcient for 20 plants for one year, 35 cents. No. 2 Package, sufficient for 20 plants for three months, 26 cents. Postage paid on receipt of price. Price in bulk, 4 lbs., 60c.; by mail (post paid), 80c.; 5 lbs., 75c.; by mail (post paid), 95c.; 10 lbs., $1.25 per express. '•rryrWXrCl Q- steel, garden- Absolutely the best Trowel in I nU W CL-O . the world. Simmers' Steel Trowel. They have given general satisfaction all over. Each, 35c. OLEVES- TRANSPLANTING ^^mm^ TROWEL— One of the most useful fTnANam.ANTMo garden tools we know of, having « .'e?toK XJr'^'J'lrl'air^e^ u«H for onttlng dandelion., etc.. out of the lawn. We can mail it for 25c., post paid. Tur pniiDiuinnv UitcnCD Combining, as it does, both the rake and the hoe, THE bOMDlHllllUll nttUtn it is the most SEBVIOBABLE, DURABLE and PBBFEOT weedeb on the market. Price, by mail, 35c. One of the best hand pruning shears, with un- breakable spring. Each, 75c.; by mail, 85c. HAMMOND'S SLXJO SHOT Kills All Kinds of Insect Life. SLUG SHOT— A non-poisonous powder and a very popular insecticide. It requires no further mixing or preparation ; easily applied and not injurious or dangerous to animals, the person applying it, on fruits and vege- tables treated. Very effective in destroying potato bugs and beetles, green and black flies, slugs, worms, caterpillars, etc. Apply with duster, bellows or gun, 30 to 40 pounds is sufficient for an acre. For further informa- tion send for our little book on Slug Shot. Price, per lb., 10c., add 4c. if wanted per post ; 5 lbs., 35c.; 10 lbs, 60c.; 100 lbs., $5 ; large lots price on application. Whale Oil Soap, per Pound, 25c.; Post paid, 36c. Tobacco Soap, per Cake, 25c.; Kost paid, 30c. We also sell Rose Tobacco Soap, Flour of Sulphur, Paris Green, etc. See General Catalogue. J. A. 81MMER8, TORONTO- m Pruning Shears TBADB MASK.