Gardening for the Million eBook

This eBook from the Gutenberg Project consists of approximately 262 pages of information about Gardening for the Million.

Gardening for the Million eBook

This eBook from the Gutenberg Project consists of approximately 262 pages of information about Gardening for the Million.

Parsley.—­In order to grow Parsley to perfection it is necessary that the ground be well drained, as the roots and stems must be kept dry, and the soil should be rich and light.  Three sowings may be made during the year:  the first in spring for late summer and autumn use, the next in June for succession, and another in August or September for spring and early summer use.  Thin out or transplant, to 6 in. apart.  Parsley takes longer than most seeds to germinate; it must therefore be watched during dry weather and watered if necessary.  Plants potted in September and placed in a cold frame, or protected in the open from rain and frost with a covering of mats supported by arches, will be valuable for winter use.

Parsnips.—­These succeed best in a rich soil, but the application of fresh manure should be avoided, as it induces forked and ill-shaped roots.  Let the ground be trenched two spits deep and left ridged up as long as possible.  As early in March as the weather will permit level the surface and sow the seed in drills 15 in. apart, covering it with half an inch of fine soil.  When the plants are 2 or 3 in. high, thin them out to 9 in. apart.  They may be taken up in November and, after cutting off the tops, stored in a pit or cellar in damp sand, or they may be left in the ground till required for use.

Passion Flower.—­Cuttings of the young shoots strike readily in sand under glass.  The plant likes a good loamy soil mixed with peat.  A sheltered position with a south or south-western aspect should be assigned those grown out of doors, and the root should be well protected in winter.  The flowers are borne on seasoned growth of the current year:  this fact must be considered when pruning the plants.  During the hot months the roots require a copious supply of water, and the foliage should be syringed freely.  Passiflora Caerulea is fine for outdoor culture, and Countess Guiglini makes a capital greenhouse plant.

Pavia Macrostachya.—­This is a deciduous hardy shrub or tree which bears elegant racemes of white Chestnut-like flowers in July.  Any soil suits it.  It is propagated by layers or by grafting it on to the Horse-chestnut.  Height, 10 ft.

Peaches.—­These are best grown on a strong loam mixed with old mortar; though any soil that is well drained will produce good fruit.  When possible, a south wall should be chosen; but they are not particular as to position, providing they are afforded shelter from cold winds.  November and February are the most favourable months for planting.  The roots should be carefully arranged at equal distances apart, 3 or 4 in. below the surface of soil, and then covered with fine mould.  Avoid giving manure at all times, except when the trees are bearing fruit heavily.  Train the shoots about 6 in. apart, removing all the wood-buds except one at the base of the shoot and one at the point.  Keep the flowers dry and free from frost by means of an overhead shelter, to which tiffany

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Gardening for the Million from Project Gutenberg. Public domain.