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THE GRAPERY. Fig. 1,

| CHORLTON’S
GRAPE GROWERS’ GUIDE.

. A HAND-BOOK

OF THE

CULTIVATION OF THE EXOTIC GRAPE.

BY
WILLIAM CHORLTON.

«NEW EDITION.

By Dr. GEORGE THURBER.

ILLUSTRATED.

/ ow YORK: ae a
ORANGE JUDD COMPANY,

Arde.

the SP.
ae a Fe
oY“

CONTENTS.

4,
Wee et

CHAPTER I.
INTRODUCTORY REMARKS.

Hardiness of natives and exotics .

Effects of mildew and excessive ee e e

° . *. > ll
+ ose. £e
LataGpery «+

o- bd ° .

BNMEEENESES S65

ao)
mm

Sa

Iv CONTENTS.

AGE
Difficulties with outside temperature . = 30
iption and plan . s 31
Plan of rentilator . ° 32
Advantage of inside ranting : . ° . 33
Plan of house hea’ . ° .
tirapery for pot culture: »
Plan of house for ° . . ° .
Other houses suitable: « o - . . 36
Retardin :
Obj « . . ° . « 8
Position and aspect . . ‘ . . 37
Plan of double detatched ‘souls . + 38
Mr. Webster’s method of ventilation - . 39
CHAPTER. Tit.
ARTIFICIAL HEAT AND APPARATUS.
ee bik as is required 2 . ‘ « - 0
ble, and wi why . “ ~ a ch 41
Hot water the best . ° ° . 4
Difference of material fer’ pipes, ae: . . . « 42
Plan of boiler = - . 8
Brick fiues, genera}: rrontis-on aoe - s.
Drying and parching effects of flues = . - 6
Size and capacity of flue and furnace . . - . 46
Polmaise heating, remarkson . ‘ ‘ - &
PI £ a, and ni re tinad 48
P . . . .
CHAPTER IV.

BORDERS, OR PREPARED BEDS.

ht «
Bad. effects of unsuitable snare . ' .
Nitrogenized manure not permanent « «
bones and li « “

*
"Sggegeas88

sm
t

CONTENTS. ¥

aca
Width of borders . . . 56
How to retain natural longevity . ° * - Pa 3
Useless expenditure ° . . 58
CHAPTER V.
G AND MANAGEMENT THE FIEST YEAB.

Chi of vines for —s P . \ i 59

When to plant . . . . - .
How to plan . ‘ i . ° . - 60
Careful watering required ° ° 61
Planting vines previously inet into rowih . ‘ « GE
Management through the summer . . . 62
Attention tothe roots. 5 . . . « 62
Ni ity of a warm temperature . e - . 63
Attention to the 2 . : . + 64
as ripening progresses . ° . . 64
How to prune, &c. re F . . - 64
Wash to kill : . . . e . 65
Covering for winter . re . «
Top-dressing of compost 5 2 rs ° . 66

CHAPTER VI.

MANAGEMENT FOR THE SECOND YEAR, AND PERMANENT TREATMEN
FOR THE COLD GRAPERY.

Led

Retarding of the buds . . -
How to manage the e advancing growth ° . .
yunch °

MPesasusszeazass

.

vi CONTENTS.

CHAPTER VII.
THE EARLY GRAPERY, OR FORCING HOUSE

PAGE
Practica! skill required, and remarks . ri . eae
Yearly ft reing not injurions ‘ . » . 79
Covering for outside borders . e - 86
Injury frem the roots being in a pee bad ° . . 80
Time to prune. and commencing to force ‘. ‘ - 83
Evils of cold drafts of air . . . < . 84
General treat: re . 8
Waterin cutie i _ fe ventilate . 86
Second . ° . - 87
ee wal risers . . . 88

CHAPTER VIII.

POT CULTURE

; + &e. : : Fs . 91
Comparative difference in crop . . . . 92
How to ecenomise space 2 : 93
Suitable vines, —— and potting « > ° - 93
General treatme i. . . 95
Management Pts _ fraiting ° . e . = 96
Application of liquid manure . . ° 97

CHAPTER IX.

RETARDING HOUSE.

Objects of the Retarding House . . s 98
remarks, and treatment . - . Q 93
| Tequired in prunin : : ~ IL
a eee pa . . =

*
CHAPTER X.
LIST OF VARIETIES,
Remarks on the confusion of kinds ‘ ‘ . - 104
Exotics, descriptive list . |
_ Cold Grapery, the best kindsfor , ,
: me az va use bl . _ La liz

*

CONTENTS.

Pot cultcre . . ° . .
Remarks on jwise . . > .
Native Grapes, varieties of : » . .
CHAPTER XI.
PRUNING AND TRAINING.
General remarks é ° . . .
Double spur met! hod . ° ° . .
Single close spur — . ° : .
Long rod . . . .
Renewal ag . . . .
nsion . . ° . °
- produce temporary fullerop . . . .
mgevity of the grape vine . . .
Weg of fruit that a vine will produce . .
antages of extension . .
ae pruning . . . °
Evils of shortening in too close . <
iling the plant’s energy shortens life . °
CHAPTER XIL
PROPAGATION AND THE RAISING OF NEW KINDs.
Propagation by eyes . . . .
—————— cuttings . ° “i . .
— . . ° .
yers . .
-_ layers cies . ° °
—————- grafting. ~ . . : .
ee nee inarching ° ° oF .
ae . ° ° . -
= raising of new kinds Fs . °
t that y be made : e *
National al profits . .
Hybridizing, or wren hecading” . . .
DISEASES.
Mildew :
Different kinds, and first indication . . .

Oidium, its appearance = . . o

Vili CONTENTS.

Other Leds of vce vad eww to prevekt .
Rot in the fruit:

= cause,and howteremedy' . . .
The probable cause @ .
Remarks on watering Geeta e .

CHAPTER XIV.
INSECTS AND HOW TO DESTROY THEM,

@emarks and different kinds . - - .

Red spider, scaly and mealy bugs .

Green and a rose bug Fa
mo! A

Carbonate of lime. lime, its good effects
jon

PUBLISHERS’ PREFACE.

Wh posed to issue a new and enlarged
edition of the present volume, the author was requested
to make such changes and additions as his later experience
had shown to be necessary. In due time he reported that
he had gone all over the work, and having compared its
teachings with his daily practice, he could see nothing
which he wished to alter. He suggested that the work
might be made more valuable by adding descriptions of
the better varieties of the exotic grapes introduced since
the former edition.

In view of the above, we are warranted in presenting
the work as embodying the former teachings confirmed
by the later experience of one who may be regarded as a
veteran in grape culture.

The suggested list of the newer exotic grapes has been
added, and will be found at the end of the volume.
When this work was first published, grape culture in the
open air was almost unknown. A few attempts at plant-
ing vineyards with exotic varieties had resulted disas-
trously, and the cultivation of native varieties was, in the
Nothern States at least, confined to city yards and
sheltered localities. As sufficient directions for out-door
culture are given, it 1s thought that a select list of the
leading hardy varieties will add to the value of the work ;
and it is given at the end of the volume.

PREFACE.

Owi1ne to the favorable reception of my monograpn.
the Cold Grapery, by those who are interested in grape
culture, and the commendations of intelligent practical
cultivators of this luscious fruit, I have determined to
comply with the request of friends, by giving a more
comprehensive edition, with the hope that my humble
efforts may be of service to the public.

What is recorded is simply an explanation of my own
ex mee and observation, and an expression of my
deliberately formed opinions. The method here given
has been successful hitherto, and is founded upon the
practice of the last quarter century. I have endeavored,
as much as possible, to give a common-sense view of the
whole routine, to embody every idea required in each
department, and labored to make the detail concise, yet
: Such as it is, I submit it to a discerning and intelligent
public, and shall be amply repaid for my geen: if it
shall hereafter be the means of exten true know
ledge. of the subject on which it treats.

WiLiiam CroRLTon

New Brighton, Staten Island.

(zi)

CHAPTER I.
INTRODUCTORY REMARKS.

We find, from history, that the grape-vine has been
one of the most esteemed and essential fruits from the most
remote periods of antiquity. Its SS has followed
the migrations of civilized man into all climes suitable to
its prosperity, and, since the oui of glass houses has
been understood. has become adopted into many countries
where it otherwise could not succeed.

In the United States, the different varieties of the native,
Vitis Labrusca, as Isabella, &c., and those of the native
Vitis vulpina, as Scuppernong, &c., with ordinary treat-
ment, flourish, and ripen their fruit in the open air; while
those of the exotic, Vitis vinifera, as Chasselas, Ham-
burgh, &c., have, excepting in a few solitary instances,
proved a complete failure, from their tendency to become

milde wed. In most parts of the Union, there is sufficient

and heat to bring the differeut varieties of the =
species to maturity, and they are hardy enough to
the cold, but unfortunately, when the disease esges the
expression) attacks them, the free action of growth is

aleo is rendered worthless same cause;

sanguine
hi ev isthe result of eect of Som p ¥

12 THE GRAPE.

tion, the development of which is accelerated by the ex
cessive changes from dry to moist, from heat to cold, and vica
versa. Fortunately, the erection of glass houses is now
so well understood, and material is so cheap, that we have
a ready antidote; for, by planting inside these structures,
we are enabled to equalize the temperature and overcome
the difficulty. There is also the advantage, if we take the
whole range of the subject, of being able to cut ripe grapes
nearly the whole year round; and even as a general crop
in the cold grapery, with a proper selection of sorts, a sup-
ply may be obtained from the middle of July, or the ke-
ginning of August (according to locality), on to near the
end of December.
Generally it has been thought that the cultivation of
this desirable fruit was prohibited to all but the most
wealthy, on account of expense, and peculiarly myste-
terious skill. As to the first difficulty, good and suitable
houses can be erected, when heating apparatus is not
attached, at from $8 to $14 per running foot, on the
length of the house, with all conveniences included, and
proper fertilizing materials are no great expense; so
that this obstacle can be removed even by those of humble
means. In making the above assertion as to cost, it is
not presumed that the lesser amount will complete a
stately building, but a snug and well adapted small house,

skill, if the directions h laid down (with a little
2 observation added) be acted upon, a sufficieney of prac

_ tical Knowledge will soon be acquired; he these hice
tions are the result of the author’s experience, and
Se

INTRODUCTORY REMARKS. 13

accomplished by good grape-growers. Many have been
prevented from commencing by seeing the many fail-
ures that have occurred, the small ia of successful
cases. and the hitherto almost general “say,” that it is
- absolutely necessary in all cases to have fire heat. But
we are dawning upon a new era in these respects, and the
ecigid and determined enthusiasm with which many have

ow come into, and others who are heginning to enter the
field, will go far towards dispelling these fears, and will
eventually drive out prejudice. No fruit-bearing plant
will give greater satisfaction than the grape-vine, and
nothing horticultural will continue to prosper without it

has done his best to discharge his duty, feeling convinced
that ere long the grape-honse will be considered as neces-
sary ap eLmeete to an estate, however smail, as at present

a peach-ore
- Botanists ge with respect to the classifying of thu
enus vitis, some making the species very numerous, and
others only dividing it into well-marked specialities, thereby
simplifying and rendering the differences more distinct.
There are some men so fond of div iding and eer:
nature’s distinctions according to their own fickle whims
and fancies, that, were we always to follow them, it dia
take a lifetime to BEuIN to understand their abstract con-
rections; and as these individuals have in re cases
become authors, and consequently ave referred t au-
thority, there is some apology for the novice pase
in the maze of misunderstanding which they have to some:
extent established. Such men oug'it to take a course af
practical lessons in hybridization, and see the results, be
fore publishing their manuseripts, when they would dis.
that many of their so-called species are no more.

than some of the varieties which may be artifi- : :

4 THE GRAPE.

cially produced. However, this has little to do with us in
the present subject, further than the understanding of the
difference between our natives and the exotics, a here
it would appear that the constitutional properties alone
are sufficient to make a true natural division ; for, unless
we are greatly mistaken, there has not been one variety
of foreign origin, or yet a seedling, direct from the same
source, which can be ¢rudy verified as withstanding the
changes of our climate, with the same pertinacity as the
natives.

The exotic grape-vine is a native of, and flourishes the
best in warm, even, and comparatively dry climates; its
organization is such as to require a long, steady, and warm
season to perfect its growth. Under favorable circum-
stances, it pushes forth a vigorous development, and ab-
sorbs alarge quantity of nutriment from the soil, if encour-
aged to the full extent of its powers. The broad and
ample foliage perspires and respires very freely. Hence
it follows, that the atmosphere in which it is growing
should be most particularly adapted to the various stages
of growth. Practical experience shows this to be deci-
dedly the case; for, when not attended to, the most inju-
rious consequences follow.

Heat is the cause by which the sap is set in motion in
the spring, and when it is once excited, the action is grad-
ually increased along with the rising temperature, until
eventually the whole energies of the plant are brou
on active play. Light and moisture, combined with

growth to its fullest capacity. This being the ease, it is
easy to see that in so vigorous a grower as the grape-vine
‘= great amount of these three elements is required. This
2B ee = pe erees

INTRODUCTORY REMARKS., lé

Heat, light, and moisture are the wain re uisites; yet
these elements are generally too sparingly administered,
although the grape-vine requires them ail in abundance
while growing freely.

It would be well if all cultivators were to study more
closely the laws by which the vegetable world is gey-
erned; were it so there would be fewer failures.
attached too much to set notions, and follow the blind

of prejudice oftener than we ought; and if we

add to this the great number of pretenders who swarm
over the country, there is no occasion to wonder at the
many failures. Let it not be thought that I wish to de-
preciate the character of the skilful horticulturist, for we
have many men who are an honor to the calling,—well
qualified to = advice, and under whose care the grape
vine is as well managed as in any part of Europe; but
while wishing to do all in our power to uphold the pro-
fession, we shor!d pS ci gad
empiries who often deceive the unwary, waste the pro
erty of those who employ them, and bring gi to many
a horticultural establishment. In no department is this
more often seenthan inthe grapery, where the weak
growth, the ill-fed papery leaves, and spare fruit tel] a

of :

ilove, than it

pete there is much skill required in the onltivalies
of this fruit in all its bearings, there are none of those

16 - THE GRAPE.

stand the constitutional habits, and adapt our treatment
accordingly. Now, if we take into consideration, as stated
above, that the exotic grape-vine is indigenous to, and
flourishes best in those countries which have long and
steady summers, and that those same ——
paratively dry during the periods of rest, it seems only
reasonable that we should keep up a warm pis equable
temperature during growth, and also have the roots in a
well-drained, or naturally dry substratum,—so far for its
natural requirements. All that we have so far done, by
attempting to acclimatize the grape, has not yet overcome
these physical difficulties, neither will any future attempts

succeed, unless we get a race of seedlings, crossed with the
native varieties, and raised in our own climate. By en-
couraging vigorous development, by a moist atmosphere,
added to this required steady heat, and afterwards concen-
trating the collected juices by a further continuance of
the latter principle, with air more freely admitted until
the approach of maturity, afterwards reducing the tem-
perature, and moisture as ripening progresses, it will bend
to the will of the most fastidious enthusiast.

By the aid of glass houses, either with or without arti-
ficial heat, all this can be accomplished, and as they can
be erected of any size to suit the pecuniary means. or
eaprice of different persons, a grapery is within the reach
of a poor man. How gratifying would it be to the me-
chanic, and small tradesman, to have attached to his
_ homestead a small house of grapes,—what an appendage

- o his little domain, and with what exulting feelings sae
i view his crop as “he sat under his own vine,”

INTRODUCTORY REMARKS. 17

est nabol ‘nu aristocratic Europe. This pleasure may be en-
joyed by most persons. Half the money that is ofteu
spent in “ gingerlread” decorations, miscalled ornamente
around a dwelling-house, would erect a little grapery,
which in many places might be attached to, or cover one
end of the building, having a door leading into it from the
house: and let not the wife or daughters think the neces-
sary attentions required during the absence of the “ gude
man,” to be a degrading pursuit, for it is no mean oceupa-
tion. Woman never yet lowered herself by being seen in
the garden, or by obtaining a knowledge of plants, and
rural affairs, and it is surely far better to be employed in
healthful exercise, such as is here furnished, than to be
lolling from morn to night, inanimate, as it were, upon the
downy sofa, reading exciting and voluptuous novels, and
assisting the seeds of aan n to germinate. oul
that we could induce our accomplished matrons, and fair
belles to cali al oleae ce siidish sbaleacel hor-
ticulture. Why should these departments be considered
too masculine for woman's position in society ?

CHAPTER IL
HOUSES AND CONVENIENCES.

THERE has been from time to time, much controversy
respecting the various kinds of structures which are most
suitable, for cultivating the grape vine. Some advocate
the eurved line, double pitch; others again, the straight
line, double piteh. Some, from a preference for old no-

a few who have advanced a step out of this position,
wil admit instead of the common plane lean-to, a roof
with acurved line. Latterly a new notion has sprung up,
and we find the ridge-and-furrow-formed roof is gaining
an ascendancy.
In order to make this part more easily understood, it ia
divided into the Cold Grapery, or growing without artifi
cial heat ; Forcing — Foreing House for Pot Culture,
cand Bete
Coup Grapery- —The form of the house for this pur-
_ pose is not so material, as the having it so constructed,
that it may be shut ap tight in cases of emergency. With
this precaution, good glass, and good management, any
style will answer the purpose; consequently the build-

surface may Se

HOUSES AND CONVENIENCES. 19

nothing more than can be guarded against by clos.ng up
If there is any preference for general utility, the curve
line double a ought to be chosen, as from the convex
exposed to the sun’s rays, at whatever
altitude he may ni the intense heat is somew seat
tered, there is less danger of the leaves being scorched,
and the Bight} is also more equally distributed; this form
is also generally considered the most agreeable to the eye.
Whatever style of double pitch be adopted, the ends
ought to face north and south, or as near these points as
may be convenient,—although a few degrees, variation
either way is not of much consequence. By placing the
house in this position, both sides receive the influence of
the sun equally ; besides in the middle of the day, when
his rays are most intense, they are partly warded off by
striking obliquely upon the sash-bars above, which on the
whole length of the house, acts as a considerable shade.
In some cases, it may be desirable to cover a dead wall
or side of a building; or it may be requisite that the cold
grapery should be connected with a line of early forcing,
or plant houses, when the lean-to roof will be most con-
venient, but there is no other advantage in adopting
it, for with a double pitch, having two rows of pillars
inside, one on each side of the central pathway, both
sides may be planted, thus accommodating a double quan-
tity of vines ; besides there is no back wall seen, and it
shows better taste in the proprietor. Where the avoiding
of expense is an =... considering
Where

*20 THK GRAPE

should correspond with some peculiar style of architecture
in the dwelling-house, or other contiguous buildings (ana
these points ought often to be considered), the ridge-and
furrow roof offers the greatest facilities, as it may be
adapted to almost any form, without destroying its effi
ciency, for the vines can be trained horizontally under the
roof; the grapes also look very handsome in this position
as they hang perpendicularly down from the whole sur-
face above. The canes in this ease may be cunducted
along the under surface of each furrow, and the side spurs
fixed at right angles, which enables the operator to arrange
the bunches with the nicest regularity.

With respect to the inclination of the roof, it is desira-
ble that it be not less than 45,° for the following reasons:
our almost vertical sun at midsummer, when there is the
greatest danger of seorching, will, at mid-day, strike the
glass at an oblique angle, thus lessening its intensity and
to a certain extent counteracting the evil The glass
beng more upiight, the wind or draft admitted through
the laps, will be somewhat intercepted, and confined more
immediately to the inner surface of the roof, which will
ensure a more equable temperature around the leaves and
stems, preventing somewhat the tendency to mildew. A
steep roof also gives an additional length of rafter on a
given width of house, which is an advantage, as the vines
with the general modes of training, have more extent to
develop their energies, and preduce individually greater
craps.

_ architectural structure, Allowing the Cold Grapery to be
‘feet long by twenty feet wide, and the others col-
lectively to be one hundred feet long by twenty-five feet

HOUSES AND CONVENIENCES. 21

wide, the whole could be finished and every convenience
included for about $2500. The main front is shown in
the ground plan, Fig 2, to face full south. In such case it
will be understood that the Retarding House would have
a due north aspect, which is somewhat a disadvantage, as
the sun would have little effect upon it. In order to

emedy this, one-third in depth of the upper part of the
central longitudinal division wall might be of glass, which

ould allow a considerable portion of light to pass through
from the southern side, and thereby obviate theevil. Sueh
a contrivance is now under the charge of the writer in a
house for flowering plants, and answers admirably. There
is, however, no objection, where circumstances will permit
of choice in location, to the placing of the front aspect a
few degrees east of south, which would in an equal ratio
turn the northern side towards the west, indeed all things
considered it would be as well for all requirements. If a
Retardi: mse be not wanted, the northern side might
be caren into a neatly finished row of convenience
rooms, or if this were objected to, it would make as fine a
house for apricots, camellias, oranges, or such like. as
could be desired. It is intended by the plan to fix the
heating apparatns in a cellar beneath the noithern divi-
sion, and the boilers or furnaces near each other and adja-
cent t> the chimney, each flue being conducted into the
main outlet as shown in Fig. 10. If the cellar were re-

evented, and the whole building would be composed of
a surface of glass, from the wall plates to the ri

Fig. 3 shows an interior view of a Cold Geapere: now
mder the writer’s charge, which is 74 feet long, 20 feet _
wide, and 14 feet high, from the base level ; there is a
tistern sunk beneatl near the centre. eheatendc

saxnomy

MATA ®

vend “@

‘Wald WALYA-LOH ‘BS

‘BAVABAY ‘TL

wesc ec eee — 4 rrr ne
ELEM mae “N0035,

GROUNL PLAN TO FRONTISPIECE.

BONRINSANOO YaHLO YO WOOY LINdA

22

HOUSES AND CONVENIENCES, 23

feet wide, and a force pump, hose, and tark for tempered
water. The house rests upon strong cedar and the
berders are 20 feet wide each, outside; the inside like-
wise is prepared in the same manner, which gives an ex
tent of GQ feet extreme breadth. For proportions and

Fig. &

style, this house is considered, by most persons who hav«
seen it, to be satisfactory in every respect. The vines

1851, : ‘ ‘ 262 bunches

24 THE GRAPE.

There is nothing extraordinary in the avove produce, more
than others may accomplish; it is only an average of what
proper management and attention will do, and is more par-
ticularly introduced, as an answer to the oft repeated
qnestion, “willit pay?” The average weight of these re-
+, ective crops, if taken collectively, would be one pound
per bunch, all of which might have been sold at whole-
sale for fifty to seventy-five cents per lb. The following
calculation of expenses, which is as correctly stated as
ean be, will show the balance of profits :

2945 lbs at 50 ets. ‘ = * $1472 50
Deduct labor ist year. . . $50 00
“6 ey ‘

age © Sr. . <2 160 00
& “Ath So. 208 00
“ “ 5th “ .

Yearly dressings, $20. . . .100 00
Repairs, painting, &e.,. . . 200 00 1025 0C

$447 50

By the above example it will be seen, that there

is $447 above the lowest wholesale market prices and
as the house, borders, &c., cost about $2000, it leaves

_ but it must be considered, that in this ease, profit was not
the object, everything was done, regardless of expense,
te make a good and fine looking structure; the best French

HOUSES AND CONVENIENCES, 26

be built ana tended so as to give a large return of profit
A house of equal dimensions, and well finished can be
erected at $12 per lineal foot, with the exception of cis-
tern, force pump, hose, and tank; and if we make an cs-
timate of all incidental expenses on a house equal to the
abtuve, and 50 feet long, it will stand thus:

House finished with two coats of paint,

5C feet long at $12.00 , $600 00
Brick cistern, cemented, 10 ft. by 10 ft.. 70 00
Tank, Force Pump, and Hose. . 90 00
25 tons manure for borders at $2. . to 56 06
Material for drainage. = ‘ ‘ 20 00
90 bushels bones, at 60 ets. ‘ «48 06
100 do. charcoal, &e. - - 15 00

Labor making deck: Ss oe - 20 00
48 vines, at 50 cts, . : - . 24 00

$934 00

‘he comparative weight of fruit that may be taken from
the latter will be about two-thirds, or 1964 Ibs. at the same
prices, making the total value for the five years of $982,
and allowing the labor, expenses, &c., to be the same com.
paratively in both cases, we may put down $298 gain upon
a capital of $934, which shows a profit of about six per
cent. per annum, and this too at the commencement. Ti
we were to reckon upon after years, when the vines,

management, there is noloss in having a Cold Grapers
even though partial failures may occur.
the grape-vine is to be grown to the greatest per

26 THE GRAPE.

house may serve as a winter conservatory fo: flowering
plants, but experience shows, that however late the vines
may be kept back in the Spring, the buds will burst before
the weather is suitably mild to turn tho plants out, and
into the open air; and at this time the vines will require
a temperature peculiar to themselves which would gene-
raliy be too damp and close for the plants, many of which
at the time, will be in a blooming state, requiring more air
and a cooler atmosphere, than will be suitable for the
vines ; besides it is almost impossible to keep down insects
in a house where plants are kept. There is some excuse
in an early forced grapery, which is so congenial to the
well being of some natives of the tropics, but as a general
greenhouse requires heating and the cold grapery does not,
the expense of two houses is not so great, compared with
the advantage to be gained; therefore if possible, it is
much better to have two houses where beth are wanted
If pecuniary benefit be an object it is also more profitable,
for the grape if well dealt by, will be honest in return, and

to erect the house upon stone pillars, or locust, or cedar
posts, (each of which ought to be directly beneath a rafter,;
which will allow them free egress to the outside borders.
There are several ways by which these houses may be
ventilated, perliaps the most convenient is to admit air at
the tup, near the bottom, or under the wall plate.

HOUSES AND CONVENIENCES. 27

if we always gave ear to her instructions—the sun's rays
strike the earth, and produce the greatest heat at the sur-
face. She has no fived confining canopy over the plants
under her charge to prevent the heat from passing up-
ward, and if we are obliged to have such, we ought not
to render our tural than there is ocea-
sion for. Keep the head cool and the feet warm, is ad
vice often given by our physicians, and the same rule
applies to plants generally, with very slight modifications.
If the roof be made with sashes to slide over each other,
which is the method best adapted for removal of the
house at any future time, the upper ones will becomethe vag
ventilators; but when it is fixed, —_ en - a co’
row of sash b
the openings require to be lifted up from the bottom, and
hung onthe opposite end by hinges, or suspended by the
middle on each side, and opened on a pivot. When hung
by hinges the sides may rest upon the rafters, and the
lower end project a little over the next squares of glass.
thereby making it proof against drip, and this is perhaps
the best plan, for beside being safer against rain, air can
be admitted and the temperature lowered, without cold
draughts s striking down into the house. If hung from the
sides there are no effectual means of capping, and however
_ good the joints may be, the rain will find its way through
more or less in time of violent storms.
The internal fixings required, are wires to support

23 THE GRAPE.

the rouf, ana are more exposed to the clianges of tempea
ture, their action also will be impeded by being cramped,
but a greater distance than is actually required is objec-
tionable, as the nearer the glass the better
For a large house, a tank that will hold about two hun-

dred gallons will be requisite, and for a smaller housa,
one in proportion. This tank duing the earlier growing
season ought to be kept full of water, so that when used
it may be of the same temperature as the inside of the
house. Cold water applied immediately from an under-
ground cistern, or well, suddenly checks the action of ali
ag and ought by all means to be guarded against
The force-pump may be attached to the tank, and if an
air-tight metal globe be fixed over the discharge pipe, on

the same principle as a fire engine, a steady stream will

be propelled through the hose. By having two faucets or

the lower pipes, one leading tothe tank, and the other
from the cistern below, there is no need for two pumps, as
they may be shut, and opened, so as to answer the double
purpose of drawing water from the cistern, or distributing
it from the tank over the house. For a small grapery
where eunemy is an object, a common syringe may be
used instead of the hose, but in a large house the force
pump is more economical, and has the advantage of ena
bling the operator to drive the water well into the crevices
of the ace which greatly assists in keeping clear
oo.
wees ae is not a good supply of soft wate: close at hand
it is desirable to have a cistern sunk under or iminediatel y
near the house, and the water conveyed into it from the
__ roof by gutters and pipe, which saves much labor, beside

forall
Pain A Stetson mport

the benefit of alwa: always having rain water, which 1s ths best

7
4
]
|

HOUSES AND CONVENIENCES. 29

ce, and in making arrangements ought not to be lost
a of. It should be freely exposed to light and air on
all sides, if possible, away from the shade of trees or sur-
rounding buildings, and if sheltered on the north, east, and
west, so much the better; but it is best for this to be a
sufficient distance, so as to secure a free action of the air
around. Shelter is not indispensably necessary, but if
practicable, is of use, as it assists in warding off the cold
winds, which often prevail until late in spring, and after
the vines have begun to grow.

‘Tue Earty Gaapery.—When the grape is produced as
an earlier crop than the cold grapery will furnish, we have
to resort to artificial heat, and with our ever variable
climate, particularly during the frigid blasts of the latter
part of winter, it beeomes requisite, that we should have a
tight and well protected house to work with; so that
variety of design has in this ease to succumb to cireum-

by means of fuel, economy ou, 0 be a prominent fea-
ture; and further, it is indispensable that a wholesome
and growing atmosphere be maintained, which cannot be
the case unless there is a command of genial moisture
during the earlier stages of growth ; both these require-
ments are best secured by close built structures, in which
there is as little cubic bulk of air to be heated as may be
_ consistent with sufficient convenience. It will be readily

ra fatebis sig aap geal at decottige pea =
as beauty, and the equalizing of the sun's rays is con-
is form, from

ares there may be a set-off against this
ieee aaa ats: ——

30 THE GRAPE.

conduct the £55er heat away with a more than cqual
ratio. Balancing all points, what is gained by one, is lost
in the other, ae "a both are equally suitable.

With regard to aspect, full south is the best, where con-
yenience will allow. South, south-east, is sometimes re-
commended, but, although with care, it answers well
enough, there are the following objections. It often hap-
pens, ‘hat the most severe cold, or lowest grade of the
thermometer outside, is immediately before, or at the time
of sunrise, on the clearest mornings, and the heating ap-
paratus must not be allowed to cool down; nowas the sun
rises direct, or nearly perpendicular from the horizon, the
rays strike (with this aspect) very quickly upon the plane
of the roof, which in conjunction with the internal action,
suddenly raises the temperature, at the time when the ex-
treme cold, and often severe winds, will not admit of air
being given, consequently there is danger from the quick
transition unless the greatest caution be exercised. If the
house face full south, the sun at this time will strike more
em al on the end, which will to some extent counter-

the evil, and there is also an advantage in having
greater natural warmth ater on the evening.

The followi d plan, figs. 4 and 5,
and description of an Early Grapery, ‘aor in care of and
erected under the supervision of the writer, and which has
answered every expectation, may be of service here, and
will illustrate our own practical ideas on the subject. The
dotted outline shows a house, which, in this example is
: - devoted to the growth of Camellias, and, being fixed in
: this position does away with the necessity of a shed, and
assists in keeping the peeery tome ee The eer
‘arrangement will apply th i alr ealy
: and which, vould — — — wal < oe

HOUSES AND CONVENIENCES. 31

Ino this ease the house faces south, south-east (owing to
convenience), with a slope on the roof of 40°, it is 78 feet
long, Ly 13 feet wide, 2 feet high in front from the greund

level, and 14 feet at the back. The foundation posts are
Red Cedar, placed six feet apart and sunk frur feet in
the ground, with the upper or exposed part, lressed off
square, and eut at the top so as to form an even horizontal
line; upon these the wall-plate is fixed, and made firm hy
being let in 1 about an inch, the lower end of the rafters,
whieh are six feet asunder. and the sask bars are — :

82 THE GRAPE.

into the wall-plate, and it is made sufficiently wide te
allow of five inches projection on the outside, this part
is scooped out on the upper side, and becomes the gutter,
by which the water is conveyed to the cistern pipe; be-
side this there are cross bars every four feet on the ‘ength
of the rafters, that stay and make the sash bars firm; venti-
lation is obtained by slides in the front wood work, imme~
diately beneath the wall plate, and by sashes 2 feet sis in-
ches long and the same width, fitted by hinges at the
ridge pole, these are lifted by a three-eights iron
having a hook at the upper end which is slipped through
a hole in a small plate affixed to the middle of the lower
end of each sash; the rod is steadied by being passed
through two apertures at the end of a shaft three inches

mg t is welded, each into a small plate, and this
screwed to a back side of the house; one about nine
feet, and the other five fect from the ground. In the front
of the lower hole is a screw worm, and a thumb screw to
fit, which on being turned either way liberates or fastens
the bar, and the sash is kept firm at any desired height.
: Q

ca

HOUSES AND CONVENIENCES. 35

getting out of repair, and is as permanent as the house it-
self. It will be understood that this style of building glass
houses, is simply a frame work covered with glass, with-
out any double sash, and consequently there is no use fur
any additional portion of the rafter above the sash bars
‘as is the case where the sashes are made to slide), which
is a decided improvement in appearance, and equally suit-
le. The house is heated by one of Hitchins’ of New
fork middle sized boilers, and there is a lineal measure of
340 feet of four inch pipe employed, giving a double row
of flow and return, beside the necessary appendages, One
row is fixed close along the front, and the other at 1 lis-
tance of seven feet nearer to the back, which leaves reom
for a pathway, without any dip in the pipe, and there is
the additional advantage of having all the heat arising
from the front, and lower part of the house, thereby se-

parts. e are two rows of vines planted, one to the
back wall, and the other about a foot nearer to the middle
of the house than the front row of pipes, which makes a
distance of eighteen inches from the extreme front; the
lower part of each of the roof vines is curved towards
the bottom of the rafters, and consequently project partly
over, but are some distance above the pipes, and to prevent
injury from the heat when the apparatus is at work, there
is affixed behind each, a short beard, about ten inches
wide, which protects the stem most effectually. The ob-

- ject of this arrangement was to insure warmth in front.

and more particulary the lower part, and at the same time
with the vines planted inside. It is a plan which we have

dk

BO

.

; 80 far Pp

: : bo . see
wha‘ answers in our own practice, may be just

ledge of its being somewhat in accordance with natural re :
: £.. <+ £.A32Ti.d all th Ppa Ep a

84 THE GRAPE

recorded, even though it should conflict with the notions
ot others. As to planting an exotic grape vine outside of
the house, so long as the roots have free egress, or expos-
ing the stem to the vicissitudes of climate, such as we
have in this country ; we never yet saw the argument
iften though it has been attempted, and as often eloquent
ly advocated, that could bring conviction, as to its being
SELES or reasonable. In nature, we find the heat
greatest near the ground, from the fact of the atmosphere
being Saipan and the reflection, which take places by
the sun’s rays striking the surface ; and although we know
that the stems of some plants are injured by his direct ac-
tion upon them in hot weather, they are seldom affected
by the same temperature if kept in the shade. This is the
only explanation that will allow any amount of advocacy
in the present instance, and it stands to reason that it
» ves little purpose.

HOUSES AND CONVENIENCES. 85

plant the vines close to the inside front; and in making
ealculations, the entrance to the house should be elevated
e9 that the pathway may pass over the top 2f the flue

Fig. 8.

without which it will always be troublesome when walk-
ing through the house. This only requires a little inge-
nuity in each individual case, according as the details of
arrangement may suit the particular circumstance.
Grapery ror Por Cutrure—lIf a house were to be
erected purposely for pot-culture, the most suitable and
economical woul: as shown in fig. 9; the inside floor-

Fig. 9.

mg eink a foot being below the ground level, and the
under base well drainea around tke outside founda-
tion, to prevent cold moisture from

36 THE GRAPE.

and if the heating apparatus be fixed sround the
inside, near to the walls, there will be an equal distribu
tion over all parts. Such a house, if ouly ten feet wide,
would accommodate three rows of vines. and leave room,
for a pathway ; one row being paced near to the back
with the path next, and the other two nearer the front
With this arrangement, there would be no occasion to
eleyate the roof mere than to give sufficient headway, aa
the path would be directly under the ridge,—say six feet
above ground, and seven feet from the inside level, by
which the exposure to cold, and severe winds is consider-
ably avoided, and a steady heat maintained with much
saving cf fuel. There may be some objection to the short
back lights, which should be of glass, but as these may be
readily covered by shutters at night, and in severe dull
weather the evil is less than the common form of lean-
to, which has to be elevated according to the width of the
house, and inclination of the roof. It is only fer pot eul-
ture that this will become serviceable in grape growing,
but for the purpose named, it is most suitable, can be
erected :

convenient to adopt the above plan, on account of other-

_ wise general arrangement, an ordinary lean-to, and more

particularly the curve line will answer the purpose to

almost equal advantage, and the design is only given as

the best adapted, where the intention is to be as perfect

as possible.

Tae Rerarpinc Hovsr.—As the object of the retard

ing house is to have ‘grapes: beyond the time Cold
5 = forwarded house will furnish them. it

ught to be cc oe } chaeking, the early

hat it chonld be

yt Be

HOUSES AND CONVENIENCES, 35
wise erected on a plan, by which it may be readily and
economically heated, or rather that the appliel heat may
not be wasted, consequently, a lean-to form offers the
greatest facilities as regards the latter, and a west front the
former requirement. There are several reasons why this
pusiticn is preferable. ‘The coldest winds, more particularly
in the carly part of the season, being from the west, and
north-west, there is a better chance of keeping back vege-
tation in the spring, and of preventing the invigorating
power of the sun at that time, thereby helping the vines
to rest for a time, and retarding the buds. It is also ad-
visable on account of the young and sappy growth being
liable to mildew during the damp and close weather of
July and August, at which times this pest is more than
usually prolific, and generally when the wind is south,

south-east ; so that if the house be turned, as it were,
away from these points, the influence is somewhat des-
troyed. It may be thought, from these considerations,
that north-west would be better still_—so it would, but
for the deficiency of sun light that in such case would be
the result, for under any and all circumstances, the grape-
vine delights in a free exposure to the action of powerful
light, and without a due proportion, the after growth will
not become sufficiently concentrated to store up the re
elaborate juices, or produce healthy and active roots
_ Improvement, and greater perfection in all buildir gs
1g now advancing with rapid strides, and these lean-te

6

se - glass houses are beginning to be looked upon as obsolete,

and whenever, or wherever such shed-lookirg structures _
with bare back-walls can be, they ought to be avoided :

88 THE GRAPE.

and, also, where strong heat has to be kept up all the
winter, but there are many instances where such might
be avoided in outside appearance, aud yet the inside re-
* main the same in character, and so with the retarding
a person who wishes to erect a house for this pur
pose, is sure to have one or more graperies, and most
likely one for the general summer crop, which is only
partially forwarded; in which case, a double span, with
the ends north and south, and divided ney
through the centre, would answer both pu the
west side being used for the late, and the east for the

Fig. 10.

eee aesege |
TU ePERR LL

earlier crop. We do not advise the east front as the best
_ in a general ae de but when it gives the advantages here
mentioned, is no reason why it may not be adopted,
and we speak from experience in saying that good grapes
may be grown as a second early, or general crop, with an
eastern slope of the roof. The annexed end section. fig. 10
————. than words how such double detached

HOUSES AND CONVENIENCES. 39

houses may be construcied, so as not to show even the
convenience for the heating apparatus, further than a doer
to shut down over the under-ground vault, and even this,
if thought objectionable, may be made to form a part of
one of the pathways inside. The example given is an
arrangement of, and now under the charge of, the writer,
and answers admirably. Hot water is here used for heat-
ing, but the same is equally applicable to the furnace and
common flue, with the difference of placing the chimney
at the opposite end.

Since the above was written we have been apprized of
a method of ventilating double pitch curvilinear houses,
which has been invented by Mr. William Webster of
Rochester, and for which he is about taking out a patent.
His plan consists in having a movable chamber along the
whole length upper part of the house, and which he can
lift or lower at pleasure. If the machinery can be made
to work well and kept in permanent order, he has con-
ferred a great benefit upon the public, and seit the
thanks and Pri which all such useful improvements

ought to receiv

CHAPTER III.
ARTIFICIAL, HEAT AND APPARATUS.

Im the first stages of civilization, man was contented to
eat the fruits of the earth as nature produced them in
each division of climate, or separate locality, but as luxury
crept in, he began to wish for those of more favored climes
than the one in which he, in many cases, happened to be
placed. His earlier peregrinations into more southern
countries enabled him to see the splendor of tropical
flowers, and taste the luscious fruits which there abound,
and to enable him to enjoy these desirable additions at his
own home, it became necessary to imitate as near as
could be done, the climate from whence they came; and

_ to use artificial heat, which
extent,

and so the thing has progressed from the half-glass, half-
slate building, with clumsy stone or brick flue, to the
Crystal Palace, and the elegantly modelled and scientific
hot-water apparatus, until, even in most inhospitable
regions, the fiuits and flowers of the torrid zone are pro:

duced in equal, and sometimes superior quality, to that
__ which is found in the places to which they are indigenous ;

SS _ besides which, skill has so far triumphed, that by a judi-

cious application, or withholding of the artificial caloric, a
SS the desires of th»
: mind.

ARTIFICIAL HEAT AND APPARATUS. 41

To say the best we can of artificial heat, it is only a
necessary evil, but as we cannot do without using it, we
ought to put in practice the best and most economical
method that is at present known. The only advantages
arising from this necessity, is the raising of the tempera-
ture of, or drying the atmosphere in any given house
under care, so as to suit the particular purpose etek
and so far, by adopting the latest improvements and fore-
casting as to what is required, we can work along with
ecoinparative surety. There is no use of entering into a
theoretical disquisition of the relative properties of caloric,
nor of showing up the science of chemistry in eombustion.
our object is to find out how we ean at the least expense,
and with the more certainty, apply this subtle principle.
Suffice it then to say that there are about four ways in
which we can adapt it to our use, viz.: by steam, hot —_
brick flue, and what may be —— a modification of
the latter, the technical term P.

Steam is of no practical use, a where a large ex-
tent of houses, all in the immediate vicinity are to be
heated, neither can it be used with any certainty, unless
the water is kept up to the point when the steam is given
off in great quantity, so as to force it through the piper,
and the heat along with it; besides there is the great dis-

: of a want of buik of heated substance, which is
sufficient reason why this mode should not be adopted, for
on the fire going down, the house immediately becomes

—

there is danger at almost any moment in severe weather,
af injury to, or the loss of a crop.
Hot Water has of late years become, and most deser

42 THE GRAPE.

any noxious gases, and if constructed on the best plan,
may be placed on the credit side cf expenses, there is also
a steady heat in the working, and a sufficiency of bulk in
the quantity of water, which, when once put in moticn,
continues to flow with increased or lessened velocity, ac-
cording as the fire is kept up, and for some time esen
after no further heat arises from the furnace. There have
been different methods adopted, as reservoirs for circula-
ting hot water, such as lining the inside of brick flues with
cement; tanks of wood ; tin or sheet iron troughs, with
the tops left loose, to be ‘tov or gs as circumstances
may dictate; circular copper, tin and cast iron
pipes. The cemented flue is cEeidiconbl, as the material
is so non-conducting, that there is great loss, and the

cement is also liable to crack, which causes leakage. The

open tank, and trough is well enough for a propagating

house, which is generally small, and kept very damp, but
is not suitable for a grapery, in which is required, a moist
or dry atmosphere, eon to the different stages of

growth; this plan also oceupies much space, and looks un-

sightly Tin pipes are not advisable from their tendency
_to corrode, and unendurable qualities. Zine softens when
_ hot, and is next to useless, copper if made strong enough
to resist hard knocks, and be really serviceable is very

_ expensive, so we are driven to the last substitute, east

iron, which answers every purpose, is lasting, erected
_ comparatively cheap, strong, and the different lengths are
readily cemented, the joints becoming as firm and tight as

any other part. The construction of boilers for this pur

pose is aiso various, and there is a great difference in the
consumption of fuel, according with the ratio of heat dis-

wee was com

ARTIFICIAL HEAT AND APPARATUS. 43

veyed around the house in a flue, which almost nullified
the improved principle; but of late years a great im-
provement has been accomplised, so much so as to make
it almost perfect.

Several ingenious mechanics have given their attention
to the subject of heating graperies and other glass struc-
tures by means of hot water, and the result is a number
of boilers remarkably efficient in use and economical of
fuel. These are complete in themselves, requiring no
brick setting or other mason work, but may be brought

in _— * up with scarcely more trouble than an ordi-
nary stove. The ash-pit is formed by the base upon
which he boiler stands. In the different styles of heaters
much ingenuity is shown im presenting the greatest
amount of surface to the action of the fire and in securing
the rapid circulation of the water. The engravings 11
and 12 show one of these heaters, giving a view of the
exterior and of a section. The boiler in this is double,
the water being contained between the outside and an
interior casing; there are, as will be seen m the section, _
internal connections also containing a portion of of the
water, thus presenting < vast cxtent of heating surface.

44 THE GRAPE.

Boilers are made of several sizes, from those capable
of heating a large grapery, down to those suited for
small green-houses and plant-cabinets.

Brick Flues—Heating by brick flues is often practised
and if they be constructed on the best method, with good
workmanship, they answer very well; the expense on
first erection is less it is true, but they often want repair,
besides which they are unsightly and cumbersome, and as
a general thing, will consume more fuel than a hot-water
boiler on the above plan. If the situation, or circum-
stances, make it more convenient to burn wood instead of
coal or coke, then the flue is to be preferred; in such case
the furnace should be large, and the draft be under the
control of the operator, by having a door in front of the
ash-pit, and a damper in the chimney, which, when closed,
more or less, as may be wished, will keep the tire steady.

There are some cultivators who still cling to the flue for
grape-growing, on account of the drying effects of the heat
evolved, which, as they assert, is of some importance in
damp weather, when the grapes are coloring, or ge and
that at other times they can usc evaporating pans. ‘True,
it is dry enough, even to parching; and were this the oy
time when it would be required, th
best - But this point is a matter of very little

consideration, as the same can be secured by pipes heated _
with hot water. Nothing ean be more erroneous than to

suppose that heat given out on the latter principle con-
_tains moisture; were it so, the water would waste consid-
erably through the pores of the metal, which is not the
ease, for all or nearly the whole of the evaporation which
takes place is at the filling up tank, and if this be kept
covered, the working of a night will not lessen the water
_ more than a few pints. Heat, from whatever sources ob-

ARTIFICIAL HEAT AND APPARATUS 45

hermetically sealed glass bottles, the generated heat is
voustautly passing off through the crevices, more particu-
larly those in the upper part of the roof, and the moisture
along with it, The main difference, then, between the
two is, that one only raises 8 the temperature, while the

that escape through the joints and the bricks, in quantity
according to the good or bad workmanship, or the porosity
of the material. “Smoke has thin shoulders,” is an old
adage among gardeners, and we often find it verified in
the use of flues. Notwithstanding these disadvantages,
good grapes may be forced by flue heat, and in some casez
this is the only means at command; when 50, it is advisa-
ble to make the best arrangement we can. If a steady

continuous heat be required, there ought to be enougk
room in the furnace to hold a large bulk of fuel, and if it
is situated somewhat below the level of the flue, the heat
will flow more evenly, and disseminate itself more equally,
as it travels along with the draft, by which a greater por-
tion will be absorbed by the bricks, and given off into the
house. A small furnace, with a quick draft, is never eco-
nomical, as a considerable portion of heat passes off by the
chimney and is lost. A narrow and small flue is also ob-
jectionable, as the heat acts directly upon the mason-work,
and the bricks become so hot as to abstract the oxygen of
the air, rendering it so devoid of moisture as not to be fit
for the leaves to respire in. To a certain extent, this evil
may be counteracted, by keeping shallow vessels filled
with water upon the flue, and damping the floor of the
house; but most of the moisture produced in this way is —
in a vaporous state, and not in the exact solution required

= by the absorbing stomata of plants. The analogy be

46 THE GRAPE.

tween plants ayd animals is in this respect the same, and
every body wh» is possessed of ordinary observation must
be able to disesrn how different is the air that is raised in
temperature }]-y a red-hot stove, even though a vessel of
water be kept upon it, to what it is when raised to the
same temperature by the sun’s power. We also know,
that if we were able to control other cireumstances accord-
ing to our wants for the time being, success would more
often attend our operations, providing we could exactly
imitate the warmth of nature. If this be true, it must
then be certsimly to our own interest to approach as near
as we can to this desideratum. To come to our point, a
ious flue gives a greater surface exposed to the ac-

fon of the heet, without becoming hot enough to bring
about so much chemical action as to burn the air inside of
the house, while a small one is sure to do so, at any rate,
in that part next to the furnace. To be effectual in this
respect, a flue ought not to be less than eighteen inches
high, by twelve inches wide in the clear; and if raised up
aha — supports inderneath at intervals on the length,
fire-proof tiles to form the bottom, so much the better,

Sipe WEL Ear a Ee out the heat on all si The
furnace sught to be not 'esr than eighteen inches wida, and
equal height, independert or ihe arch above, and two feet
long. A furnace of these dimensions is qualified to work
ahouse of forty to fifty feet long, by twelve or fourteen
feet wide, the fine being concucted along the front and twe
ends. retreend the length will reed two fires, and so on in
ic>. When two furnaces are required, there may

he one piaced at each end of the house, and conveyed ta
the same chimney, midway in the back wail, so as to unite
inte one outlet; but in such case there onzht to be an

_ seute level upwards at the place of unien, cr the twe

ARTIFICIAL HEAT AND APPARATUS. 47

opposite currents are subject to check the even flow of the
smoke, and drive it back.

The Polmaise method of heating is a plan that origin-
ated with a Mr. Murray, of Polmaise, in Scotland, and, like
many other ingenious contrivances, was the result of pecu

necessity. At the time of its introduction, it caused a
great furor amongst the seekers after novelties, and like
the fugacious follies of such persons, it soon fell into dis-
repute with all, excepting those who were determined not
to acknowledge their error. To say the best we can in
its favor, it is only a modified flue. The principle, if so it
may be called, consists in having a hot air chamber over
and outside the furnace, and conducting the heat therein
generated through one or more apertures into the house at

at the other having a hole level with the
floor, which forms the top of a drain that is conducted
along under ground to the furnace, and which supplies the
fire with fresh air to support combustion. By these means
the heat from the chamber is drawn through the house,
and a partial current produced, and from this it was at
first predicted that a great benefit would arise, on account
o near imitation to nature’s invigorating breezes. If
glass was not a rapid conductor of = this Plausible

43 THE GRAPE.

tg the lower part, or front, cold; which, if there be a dif.
terence, ought to be the warmest. ‘The only way in which
this plan can be tolerated, or be of
advantage, is, to combine the cham
ber and flue, and make use of both
This is economizing, as the whole
of the heat which radiates from both
sources is made available. Figs. 13
and 14 show a longitudinal and
as heanereese tion of both com-
bined.

In concluding, we may say, that
after many years’ practice with most

kinds of heating apparatus for hot-houses, we are thor

_oughly convinced that none is so efficient or economical

Fig. le
gientana,
AH]

SS

4

CHAPTER [V.
BORDERS OR PREPARED BEDS.

Tue formation of beds, or more technically borders, in
which to grow the grape vine is of great importance, per-
haps more so than any other portion of the whole routine
of culture, for without a proper matrix in which the roots
may luxuriate, it is impossible to succe

The more important any branch of horticulture is, often
the greater the number of opinions respecting it. This is
strictly true, in the present instance. Some have advo-
eated the admixture of great quantities of raw animal car-
casses, in such quantities, and large masses, that one would
think, if their reasoning were true, that a recently filled
cholera burial-ground, would be the best place on which ~
to erect a grapery, or plant a vineyard. Others again
have yecnanpeuiiell large doses of blood, and the stink-
ing offal of slaughter-houses, in so fresh a state that the
very idea is enough to nauseate the strongest stomach,
and forbid the cultivation of this luscious fruit. Fortu-

50 THE GRAPE,

an unctuous paste, more fit to puddle a duck pond with,
than for the tender and fleshy roots of the grape vine to
luxuriate in. If proof of this were wanted, there are
plenty of examples if they were to be examined, where
the roots that have come into contact with these masses
of sozp-like substances, befwre they were thoroughly de-

have continued to do well, it is not from the nutriment
derived from them, but from their ready adaptability to
form fresh spongeoles from the back roots, which m. may
have travelled in other directions, and with good treat-
ment added.
The advocates of this putrid animal matter, contend for
the greater invigorating powers and more lasting proper
ties, than is to be found in barnyard manure, or decayed
pata substances. ‘To the first we will agree, pro-
viding the stimulating porticns be administered in a proper
manner, and here ends this part of the difference ; but how
it is to be more lasting, is another prt of the subject. It is
a well-known fact, that highly pep cIREED manures, during
Ce ag aegis off very freely volatile ammonia cun-
tained in them, and as this is a eee pene, to vegeta-
tion during active paren it is easily seen how such
wonderful effect is produced ; as this exciting principic,
_ from its evanescent properties, porcolates into every aper-
ture in its eseape, and no doubt a portion is taken up in a
_ gaseous state by the young and readily absorbing spon-
_ geoles. But does it follow, that this is any proof of per-
o aanent action. Judging from the premises it would appear
the very reverse, and the frequent use of other manures
—guano, for instance—have bgoied

BORDERS OR PREYARED BEDs. 51

tility, where the same spot is constantly cropped. In the
present subject we are precisely in this position, and there
ought to be great regard for the future constitutional
power, if a healthy after-life be cared for, which is not to
be acquired by the excessive quantity of these helps
that only act upon the vegetable, in the same manner
as do alcoholic drinks upon the human system. All our
best physicians acknowledge the good effects of stimu-
lants in particular kinds of disease, when administered
with skill, and everybody knows how soon the strongest
constitution is broken down by the great quantities that
too many indulge in. So it is with the grape vine; we
all commence with endeavoring to gain strong, and more
than natural growth, but there certainly is no reason why
we should keep our plants in a continual state of intoxica
tion, from the moment of their first awaking in the spring,

a

the whole outer surface of the roots (which are equivalent
to the mouths of animals), until the next season's warmth
again arouses their action. We would not by any means
have it understood, that we are opposed to the judicious
use of ammonia, or any of the other compounds that are

to be found in more abundance in the animal, than in the
vegetabie body; but do protest against the inordinate
mixture of such, often to the exclusion of other, and more
necessary bases, and which leaves the plant after a few
years of undue excitement, a prey to disease and prema
ture decay. If success has seemed to attend the progres

52 THE GRAPE. :

and yuickly putrefying — of the animal body, with
out any reference to the bones. Heie we will subscribe
to the recommendation, as it is consistent with na-
ture, and furnishes along with other useful properties, the
often most wanting requirement, lime; in this all grape
growers are agreed, and the invariable prosperity of our
pet, in places where limestone abounds among the soil.
produces the most conclusive evidence. There is little
donbt but the want of this substance is the reason why
some of our vigaerons have occasion to complain of rot
and want of success in various ways; and here we may
ask, whoever saw a grape vine that did not do well, and
produce fruit of good quality, providing the climate was
suitable, and the reots could creep along under the soit

and le upon the surface or in the fissures of a lonssione

There are other persons who make the beds from three
to four feet deep of suitable materials, bet use such quan-

the whole bulk, after a time, becomes sodden
vious to either sun or air, in which no reot can exist, much
less extend itself. These are some of the many causes
_ why our giaperies so soon become weak and unproduc-
tive; yet the natural constitutional powers of the grape
vine are very strong, and of great longevity ; it is a gross
feeder and can absorb a large amount of food, but when
thus maltreated, although it may bear such usage ter a
_ time with much pertinacity, it will in the long ran (Fke av
- overgorged glutton) become deranged, its physical fine
: tious will be weakened, and it either dies of plethora, o1
wears on an exhausted existence, producing little or eas:

BORDERS OR PREFARED BEDS. ig 3

by these means, there would be some exeuse for —
abusing nature; but such is not the fact, for the
superior and best flavored fruit, is bad from solid, ees
ripened, and vigorous, but not over-fed wood. When the
bearing shoots are unduly strong, there are fclesenrd
two or more developed from a bud, while with moderate
growth only one is formed, and as each of these buds -
having received its share of nutriment, wherewith to start
future development, thus takes from the others a portion,
the consequence must be (as only one can remain) 4 weaker
action at first, and correspondingly less power afterwards,
than would be the case if there was only one centre.
The bunches emenating from such a bud, will also contain
generally a greater number of florets, and = _
to the concentrated accumulation in the embr oot ;
for it is formed previous to bursting, and before pr jeaf
of the previous season falls, in the axil of which itis —
= all cases of permanent success , the grape vin
upon a naturally, or artificially well-drained Sb
7 is ei suited in warm, and comparatively dry climates,
and the constitution which nature has fixed, man cannot
alter. We must then adapt as near as we can, its position
in cultivation to its wants, and if we produce artificially a
greater than eetiinery. amount of growth, we ought to have
a C0) nding medium whereby to mature that growth.
Well-drained borders is one of the means by which this
can be accomplished, as the superabundant moisture is
taken away, and the air and the sun’s heat can more
readily penetrate the soil. If the following directions are
followed, there will be no reason to complain of want of
suceess on this point. :
‘Take out to the depth of two feet, the whole of the up-
per surface, then dig a trench two feet wide and one fvot.
deep, w SS.

64 THE GRAPu.

around the margin of the excavated space, which will
form a drain, three feet deep from the top, and one foot
below the lower base of the borders; fill this trench with
rough stones, or brick-bats, the rougher the better; after-
wards fill in over the whole surface, about six inches of
syster, or other marine shells if to be had readily, but if
not, broken stones, or pieces of brick and lime rubbish
will answer, and if a quantity of broken bones are to be
got, strew them over the top of the other drainage ; cover
this with turf-sods, or any rough utter, to prevent the soil
from fallmg through and among tne drainage, and throw
in the hereaved compost to one toot above the top level;
this will give a depth of three feet, which will settle down
about six inches, leaving the permanent depth two feet
six inches, viz.: two feet below and six inches above the
ground level.

In some situations the origmal base will be a dead level,
when the excavated surface ought to slope from the house
towards the outside of the borders, which will cause the
‘water to run the more readily towards the lower drains.
Care should be taken in this respect. whatever the level
may be, that the bottom is so arranged as to allow the
water to escape freely ; the means of securing which will
gceur to any ordinary mind, according to the level he may
have to deal with.

It may be thought, that with this amount of drainage,
and raised, and not over deep borders, the soil will be-
come too dry throughout the summer to maintain vigorous
growth, but experience testifies to the contrary, for al-
though the under parts will not be over wet, the moisture

_ is equally divided through the whole, and if the upper
_ surface be muleched, examination will prove: —_

: ee damp, and th
lets are =— in every direction, each ching ite

-

BORDERS OR PREPARED BEDS. 55

allotted portion of work, to supply the structure of the
lant with wholesome food. Effectual drainage has not
antil lately received that share of attention among culti-
yators generally which its benefits ought to command, and
aven at the ~~ day, there is a great want of proper
an respecting it. T’o a person who is contented
to go along ea over the ground, sowing seed, and
teaving the rest to Nature, it is a difficult problem to

selve, how the conducting away water in land that is
already too dry and hard in summer can be of any ser-
vice. hanks to science and agricultural chemistry, this
is now made so clear, by having been so often explained,
with examples here and there as proofs, that the mystery
1s, how men can still remain so blind to their own interests,
or entertain any prejudice against what has been so prac
tically demonstrated.

Although it is recommended above to make the whole
of the borders at once, which is only one trouble and ex-
pense, and will answer very well; yet it is much better
to prepare the drainage as advised, and make only half.
viz.: that part next to the house, of properly prepared —
compost, filling in the other with the intended base soil
a little enriched, and after the first season’s ita work
up in the following fall, into the half of the ed
portion, the same quantity of fertilizing sasuke as the
former half was mixed with. In the spring, before grow-
ing commences, this may be again forked over, which will
inewrporate all more evenly, and the next fall the remain.

| —_ oe Gees

56 THE GRAPE.

afte: tLe borders become filled with routs, as they are always
more or less drawing nutriment and moisture, thereby
1endering the base soil more porous, when the gases of the
atmosphere, which are very beneficial, have a chance of
eceupying the interstices, and forming chemical combi-
nations with the material; thereby producing a continual
renewal of suitable food for the support of vegetable iife.
We have ample proofs of the correctness of this, and where
borders are constructed as above advised, there will be an
admission of air, not only from the openings to the drains
and from them under the whole bed, but also from above.
It is not by administering such enormous doses of stimu-
lating, or fertilizing material all at once, and before the
roots have progressed in sufficient numbers, or distance, to
appropriate it to their use, that we are to calculate upon
the most permanent results, or immediate success. So
long as we supply from time to time what is required, it is
jough, and if we have got well drained and porous bor-
ders, we can the more readily apply top-dressings and
mulchings in after years, without injury, or covering
he roots too deep ; for if, in efficiently drained ground, a
layer of dung be spread over the surface, it will be found
_ fter a time, that there is little but dry chaff left, all the

_ soluble parts having been washed by the rains down into

the soil below, and the plants will have received the bene-
fit of it,

With regard to the width of these borders there are

s have been led by

BORDERS OR PREPAKED BEDS. 57

consequently free egress and plenty of room musé cer-
tainly be essential, where the intention is to retain unin-
terrupted fertility for a long time; beside which we ought

evident that we ought not to be penurious in this respect.
mmendation is to make them ten feet wide
at the commencement, add five feet more the next season,
and five feet again the year following, making a total of
twenty feet, which will give ample space for a long time ;
but if success should attend the same stock some ten or
fifteen years, and the roots at the end of ~ time are
found so closely cues i of more ex-
tension, it wo sable to add “oe five feet, so
that in making first peat it is well to forecast after ne-
cessaries. Many will, no doubt, think that this is a waste
_ of land that might be turned to advantage in other ways,
and others may not have so much ground at command for
the purpose. As to the first objection, it may be answered
by the simple question of, what more paying crop can be
put on the added fifteen square feet that will be required
for each vine, than the increase of two or three — ot
good exotic grapes, beside the benefit sccured by re’
ing the natural longevity of the plant, where wae

tleserves to be classed with the things that were,—depend
upon it, if all its wants are duly supplied, and the house _
substantiall

> ions i.
3°

58 THE GRAPE.

io our offspring, instead of being, as it too fre yuently 18,
only calculated to become the pleasure of a few years.

The most suitable materials for composing the borders
are, a good friable loam (the top sod, grass included, of a
pasture), with a suitable quantity of partly decomposed
stable manure, in proportions of one-fourth of the latter
to three-fourths of the former, and a good dressing of
broken or ground up bones, say one bushel to every cubic
yard in bulk. If the soil contains much lime in its own
base, the bones may be dispensed with, but generally they
are of much benefit, being a very lasting manure, giving
out slowly, and when all the phosphates are exhausted
they still remain as a carbonate of lime, among which
the grape vine delights.

When the base soil, where the house is to be erected, is
of the above nature, it may be used, and the other mate-
rials added on the spot, which will save expense. There
is often much useless expenditure caused in this way.
Never remove away the existing base unless absolutely
bad, excepting with little outlay, a much better substitute
can be procured; for by good mixing of the fertilizing
matter and drainage to correspond, a poor soil may in
many instances be made good, and often when it is consi-
dered impracticable, most likely all that is required. Im-
perfect drainage is frequently the cause that prevents
success, when it is attributed to an unsuitable constituent
base. The grape vine is not so capricious in its food as is
generally supposed, but a dry bottom it must and will have
Wo presper, .

| battle. ene ae eee Ee —

CHAPTER V

PLANTING AND MANAGEMENT THE
RST YEAR

In choosing vines for planting, see that the wood is
well ripened and solid, and the roots clean and healthy.
One year old, propagated from the eye are best for the
grapery, or from cuttings for the vineyard, but those of
two years are not objectionable. The most proper time
for planting is about the beginning of March, under glass,
or so soon as the ground is in good working order, out of
doors, when the vines have not been neuine started
into growth, as they are then just commencing to move
from a long repose, and have no great time to remain in
their new quarters before fresh rootlets begin to push
fo When deferred much longer, these fibres are sub
ject to injury, being very brittle. If the vines have been
grown in pots, which is generally the case, with the ex:
oties, the soil ought to be entirely shaken from them, ad
the entangled roots carefully straightened out, care being
used when planted, that they are spread in all directions
diverging from the stem. After loosening up well, and
smoothing over the surface around on the base, where it is
intended to fix them, have in readiness a quantity of the
same material as the border is composed of, broken up
fine and mixed with a third portion of leaf-mould, if to be

had—if not, it is not of much consequence, but the young a :

rootlets soon lay hold of it, and a good start is half the ©

60 THE GRAPE.

face, place the plant thus spread out upon it, and cover
with three inches of the same mould. It will be under-
stood that this mode of procedure will elevate the crowns
of the roots a trifle above the general level, which will
prove advantageous afterwards, as a top-dressing can he
added without their being buried down below the surface
Avoid deep planting in ali cases, for it leads to cankered
roots, and places them out of the reach of the warming
influence of the sun, and the exhilirating action of the
air, both of which are as beneficial to them asare light and
heat to the leaves and branches. It is not to be expected
that this particularity can be applied to the vineyard, but
so far as can be done economically, the same rule holds
good. Before planting, cut off the top of the plant to
about - or nine inches, or down to two or three good
buds. e advantage of leaving more than one fini
the aay it gives of retaining the most promising when
started, when all the worst can be rubbed off.

It is sometimes inconrenient to plant at the time above
recommended from some local cause, in which case, the

heat and moisture, in the same manner as if in their final
resting place; as the young shoots progress in growth,
they will require to be carefully tied to a stake fixed up
right in each pot, and as the roots imerenee, larger sized
- pots will be requisite to prevent them becoming pot-bound,

ee Md which the rex 7 ermge By attending

PLANTING ANZ MANAGEMENT. 61

wl.ich, if planted in March, can generally be accomrlished
After planting, give a good soaking of water to settle the
soil around the roots, but do not allow it to become satu-
ated afterwards by too oft repeated applications, the ob
‘ect being to keep it moderately moist, but not sodden, az
he tender roots are soon rotted when not drawing freely

If the vines have been prematurely started into growth,
which is not desirable; or it is thought fit to plant those
that have been raised from the eye the same spring, the
iba bees to be deferred till the middle of April, or
beginn f May, even though the house may be ready
in O88 a for if planted sooner, they would, under such
ccenuitnamnt receive a sudden check, from their being
removed into a much colder atmosphere than the one they _
had previously oceupied, and which would militate very
much against their future prosperity, if not be the cause
or failure.

We will now suppose that the house is planted and all
ready for a favorable beginning. For the first two or —
three weeks keep all as close and cool as possible, only
giving sufficient air to lower the temperature. After th
time the house may be kept a little warmer, and the vines”

as they have not yet got into brisk action. and conse-
qoently cannot draw much of it it up. Avoid dry winds,

retain a moist atmosphere, the thermometer
te rise from 70° to 75° in the middle of the day. By the
middle of April the buds will be mostly started, rub off _
afl bat the: strongest one, and mind that it is not injured.

62 THE GRAPE.

and even, and during dry weather in the
middle of the day, avoidiny the application in the brightest
sunshine. Do not give any bottom air until a vigorous
and stroug action is cbtained, and not then without great
caution, for it causes cold drafts in the lower parts of the
house and checks growth, sendering the vines subject to

deavor to keep as steady a heat as possible. By the latter
end of the month, the vines ought to be growing vigor-

and as the laterals push, pmch them off to one joint, re-
serving one or two entice at the top at each pinching in
case of accident to the leader, and likewise take clean out
the lower ones, or those tast left with one leaf, at each
future operation. By this mode of proceedure they are
gradually a and peta! taken — without endan-
gering the bursting of the buds in the axil of the leaf-
stalks, the es are wanted for — next year. The
heat 7 now be increasei to 95’, still recolleeting to ply
ge freely, excepting in dull or cold nights, when
water ought to be withheld, as under such circumstances
it is apt to starve and check the circulation—a matter of
great importance.
_ The roots a now be ia a in proportion to the
Ls of head, and must have some attention; for
bere are the mouths, and here are also the digestive organs,
and woe betide the other members of the body if they
are | with of

en ease ee

PLANTING AND MANAGEMENT. 63

progressing, aud water ought to be applied to the svil ac-
cordingly. As there may be reason in all things co in
this, and the borders ought not to be saturated by too
often repeating the application, but of this there is not
much danger if the under base is well drained. A tork-
i; zg, both inside and out, over the whole surface, will now
be of service, but do not injure or disturb the roots; this
will loosen up and 1ender the bed more porous, and the
small rootlets will fecl their way more freely, after which
a mulching of dung or short grass, four or five inches
aay will prevent evaporation, keep an equal tempera-

and moisture in the soil, and, during hot and dry
OER will almost entirely prevent the want of that
greatest of evil necessities, artificial watering, to the out-
side beds. Gradually increase the heat as the vines pro-
gress more rapidly ; ; by the beginning of June it may be
allowed to rise from 95° to 100° at mid-day, and if the
air is kept — —e from sc high a temperature
will be prevented, and both combined will enable the
plants to develo their fullest energies.

Many persons do not give heat enongh; even some of
our very best grape growers are sparing in this respect.
os ought to consider that, as the grape vine is generally

wn under glass, we place it in a position, by the sup-
ply of rich food, to produce a more than natural disten-
tion of cellular tissue ; the larger leaves also are capable of
doing more work, in elaborating the juices drawn up from
the roots, and these large leaves being filled with an un
common amount of sap, require a corresponding assistance
of

84 THE GRAPE.

When the canes have grown to the top of the roof do
not stop them, but train the tops between the vines on
the oppesite side, if the house be a double pitch; and ifa
lean to, they may be allowed to hang down by the back
wal), stopping the leader when it has advanced somewhat
downwards, and leave the laterals on the same length.
Thus the plants will go on swelling their growth without
eheck, and adding bulk to their structure.

‘Vowards the middle of August, the air may be allowed

become somewhat drier, and syringing overhead gradu-
ally lessened, as the wood will begin to mature: the lower
ventilators may also be opened on clear days—a little at
first, increasing more from day today. By the third week
in — water should be withheld altogether, and as
the wood will be ripening, air ought to be freely admitted
through the a and the temperature decreased as the
¢anes approach maturity. When the bark becomes brown
and the wood solid, the house may be thrown open day
and night, excepting in case of frost or heavy rain, as the
object now is to let all go quietly to rest, and the leaves
to fall off yellow and fully ripe, when we may rest as-
sured that nature has done her work according to her own
will, and we have assisted her in accordance to her own

8.

So soon as the leaves are fallen, proceed to pruning
If all has gone on as it ought to have done, the canes will
average five-eighths to nearly one inch in diameter, ac
_ cording to tothe natural vigor of each individual variety, and

_ the weakest ae cg poco = out oe point
kni d. which wil

"about fifteen to eighteen Saas the objet eg
pruning,

ners
ie Ro OR Ea eR

PLANTING AND MANAGEMENT. 65

top, leave three buds, one for next year’s leader, and the
two others for side spurs; proceed downwards, leayirg
each alternate pair (one on each side) to the wall plate,
and as beneath this, the leaves and fruit would be out of

sun’s influence. and only subject to encourage mil-
dew, all buds ought to be removed.

The vines may now be carefully washed over with the
following preparation, which will destroy the larve or
eggs of insects, if any should be existing. Whale il
soap, one-fourth pound; sulphur, four pounds; tobacco
one-fourth pound; and nux vomica, one ounce: pour over
these boiling water, three gallons, and stir all up until
thoroughly inixed; as the nux vomica is a deadly poison
to animals, care should be taken that it is not left care-
lessly about. A soft painter’s brush is the best for the
purpose, and after the operation the canes may be slung
loosely to the wires till the weather begins to be severe
when they should have a coating of straw three or fom
inches thick tied around them, and the heads brought down
one over the other in a horizontal position, about two feet
above the ground level, in rows along the lines of plant-
ing; this will leave the lower parts of the stem nearly
upright, and prevent the crown of the roots from being
strained or disturbed. At the same time, be prepared with
a quantity of recently rotted turf sods, or fresh earth,

hich has been mixed up two or three months with a
third part of good stable or barnyard manure; fork over

the borders both outside and inside of the house, andadd
a dressing of three inches thick of the above compos. If

the crowns were planted slightly elevated, as before
: _ recommended, this dressing will make the surface level

out the frost, and which may remain as a mulching next

Nothing further is now reqnired, but to shut up the
“house on severe nights and wet weather, till the bude

show signs of bursting in the following spring.

;

CHAFTER VL.

MANAGEMENT FOR THE SECOND YEAR
AND PERMANENT TREATMENT FOR
THE COLD GRAPERY.

Tue following observations contain directions for the
treatment of a planting of vines in the second year, the
rmanent management of the Cold Grapery, and some
other details of a general character.
the winter milds off, and warm sunny days com-
menee, give air sufficient to keep the house cool, and to
prevent the buds from pushing as long as possible. If too
soon excited, the young shoots are in danger of being
injured by the late spring frosts, aud cold storms. When
it is perceived that the buds are swelling, and can no
longer be kept back, take the covering off carefully, and
tie the vines down in the form of an arch, with the heads
leaning from the glass, as in this position they are not so
subject to injury in case frost should occur; there is also
the advantage of causing a more lateral propelling force —
to the rising sap, which is compelled to develop the
ith more certainty, and this action once
gained, with after good management always remains.
Give a good and thorough soaking of water to the inside _
borders, which by this time will have become very Gry, —
also i epting

68 THE GRAPE.

The temperature should now be regulated as advised for
the same period last year, in the preceding chapter.

When the young shoots begin to elongate, sling the
canes loosely to the wires, but some distance froin the
glass, as the further off for a short time the safer they will
be from accidental frosty nights. So soon as danger is
past, tie them finally in their places, leaving the strings
loose enough for future swelling, and be careful in training
the leading shoot upwards, as at this time it is very brittle
and easily broken. If not quite straight with the older
cane, the better way is to bring it into the right position,
a little at a time, when the woody fibre begins to form in
the hase.

The bunches will now be clearly discernible, and when
they have fairly unfolded from the buds, so as te show
their form, and comparative strength, take out all except-
ing the strongest and handsomest one upon each shoot,
and remove likewise the tops of the side branches, beyond
the third or fourth leaf above the bunch. These will
again break from the top eye, and as they do so, from
time to time, nip out the leader to one leaf above wheie
it was last stopped; this keeps the branches within bounds.
and at the same time leaves sufficient foliage to mature
_ the fruit and perfect growth.

When the blossoms begin to expand withhold water
overhead, let the atmosphere become somewhat drier, and
eh up a little more heat, and if the weather will allow

a freer circulation of air, from 85° to 90° at mid-day is

and open soon enough in the morning, to prevent a scald-

ae ing smell in the house. At all times, with a clear sun in

_ the morning, ventilate so soon as the house begins to warm
_ alittle, and close early; the temperature by these means
“vem ee: oe

MANAGEMENT FOR THE SECOND YEAR. 69

eulture, vhan allowing a house to be closed until it becomes
hot, and admitting at once a great quantity of cold air; in
grape growing, it leads to the most baneful results. Open
soon, and close early, ought to be a maxim well riveted
on the mind. Always have a thermometer hanging mid-
way in the house, about four feet from the ground, and
shaded from the sun; observe it closely, and be guided
by it, and experience in ventilating will soon be acquired,

ag
Attention for a little while will teach, that early closing
tends to regulate the heat in the after part of the day, and
a due observance will lead to exact adaptability.

As the flowers continue to open, go over the house
once a day, and shake the bunches by a light flirt of the
finger, which assists in distributing the pollen, and enables
impregnation to go on with more P cckcuiey: This opera-
tion is best if performed in the morning, about the time or
immediately after giving air, as the flowers of all plants
are then in greater activity, and consequently there is the
chance of more perfect fertilization. There are certain
kinds, as the Alexandrian Muscat and its allies,—purple
damask, &c., which do not readily fertilize with their own
pollen in a*cold house; that may be much assisted by
shaking over the flowers a bunch of Hamburgh or other
hardy sort, an eee more ee ~~ is is required

for ripening.
= o

When Plomoaing se jus. aad the bovue are fairly

set, a good syringing over-head will clean all the decayed — p

portions of flowers which cling to and among the berries —

70 THE GRAPE.

It will now be plainly seen which are the best set and
handsomest bunches, and as there aru more than it is ad-
visable to ripen off, on account of the youth of the vines,
and the consequent danger of overbearing, thereby injuring
their permanent prosperity, it will be better to reduce the
number according to the strength of the plant, or weight
of the bunch. A cane of three-fourths inch diameter may
be allowed to carry from six to seven, and one of half an
inch, five to six pounds; but when they are smaller than
this, only one, or at most two bunches ought to remain.
Some kinds form much larger bunches than others, which
may be ascertained in some measure while young, and
the number may be calculated accordingly. A well
shouldered Hamburgh will weigh from one and a half to
two and a half pounds; if very large, from three and a half
to four pounds; while the Malvesia is a large bunch of its
kind at ten ounces. Better to be guided by comparative
weight than number of bunches, as greater equality is
gained, and the vines are rendered more uniform in vigor
afterw: Be it remembered, that it is much more diffi-
eult to bring back energy where a part is injured, than
when the whole is so, for the well-deing will take the
lion’s share of nutriment from the borders. In removing
the superfluous clusters take out the worst formed and most
weakly, and let the greater part be near the top of the
plant, leaving the bottom spurs as free as possible; for a

vine while young is prone to push its strongest growth
upwards. By bearing the upper part the heaviest, the
cirenlation is equipoised, and the lower laterals are re
lieved, and if the flow is encouraged to take a lateral
course at first, it is much easier to retain the same after
__ wards. There is no occasion to crowd all the crop at the
ae a and the pee

MANAGEMENT FORK THE SECOND YEAR. 7

All is now to be considered in full action—the grapes
about the size of peas, and swelling fast, when it becomes
mecessary to commence thinning out the superfluous

rries. First, tie out the side Siemens! in a horizorta)
position to the wires, if not already done; then fasten a
string to the end of each shoulder, and sling it up, at right
angle with the stalk, to the wires also; the smailer clus-
ters may now be opened out by inserting small strips of
wood, notched on the two ends, under them, and supported
upon the projecting stalks below. This will open out the
bunch, and prevent the weight of each cluster from bear-
ing upon the lower berries. Next, proceed to cut outa
part of the berries, commencing at the bottom, and leaving
those for ripening far enough apart to allow the aggregate
to swell up, without squeezing each other individually
when fully grown. Some care is required in this operation,

and also a iittle idea, for the object is to leave to each
berry sufficient space to allow for full _ and
Se unch Isose and
straggling. No e rule can be ete as to distance
required, but — one half to two thirds ought to be
eut away; the larger berried kinds will need more thin.
ning than the smaller, there is also a great difference in
the setting, but a reference to the descriptive list
given will be a guide; the latest sorts too, and those in-
tended to hang longest, should be more distant than the
others; for, when a little assunder from each other, the
grapes keep much longer than when they are crowded.

72 THE GRAPE.

or let the hair rub them, for while young, the skins are
very soon injured, when they become disfigured, and
marked with a russety roughness which is ‘technically
ralled rust

Guininwe to keep up a temperature of 90° to 100°
through the day, and use water freely ; damp the lower
part of the house two or three times between morning and
evening, and, when syringing at sundown, force the water
into all crevices and corners of the wood-work, to dislodge
insects. Where this is attended to, red spider, or other
such pest, will never do any harm. Do not wait until
these vermin make their appearance, but always act on
the principle, “ prevention is better than cure.”

As the leading shoot continues to progress, train it over
the top to the opposite side, as advised for last year, and
when it interferes with the fruit spurs in its downw
eourse, pinch out the top, as it would cause too much
crowding, and deprive the leaves from receiving due
light.

In very dry weather it will be necessary to use water
on the outside borders; generally, one or two applications
is enough for the season; but if severe drought should
continue, it will be advisable to repeat the operation every
two weeks, till the fruit begins to color; after which there
is no occasion for more, as there will be plenty of moisture
in the ground for all purposes. Were it not so generally
considered that large berries are a part of perfection, we
shouid be disposed to recommend the withholding of water

at an earlier period; and those who would prefer a rich,

: sugary grape, regardless of size, will be more sure to get
* — sparingly Se _—

b of producing good color, as the drier the
ere enelancer aera rt arenns

MANAGEMENT FOR THE SECOND YEAR. 3

of mildew ; consequently, a greater supply of fresh an cay
be admitted with safety, the resuit of which is, more p Jid
ity of fruit, a greater concentration of saccharine ma.‘er.
and, as a matter of course, a nearer approach to the natural
sliades of color. When water is applied outside, let it be
a thorough soaking—no mere dribbling, but sufficient to
penetrate down and through the borders. The mulchiag
which was applied previous to winter should also be «x-
amined, and if the surface is not well covered, add mere.
If the liquid drainings of a dunghill can be had, so mt ‘h
the better; hut, first, dilute with an equal portion of s ft
or rain water, and never use it but in a clear state, is
otherwise it clogs up the porosity of the soil, and ren’-rs
it sodden and “sour.” The drainage fiom a cow-bonse
is also very good, but ought not to be applied until some-
what fermented, as, while caustic, the salts contained i in it

nds,

often do much injury dente . hic: if sa used, they
are of the greatest advantage. By the second week in

July, some of the earliest sorts will begin to change for
ripening, when water may be dispensed with overhead,
but still applied to the roots in clear weather, which will
cause the atmosphere to be drier. With the ripening cf
the fruit comes also an approach towards maturity cf the
wood, and during this period, water is only essential tokeep _
- me. i _ — be ay discontinned. _

produces. moist at- :
Se ae ek the times of applying it
: mnaht tec ke tee eteny but when oe :

_ should be given. Or kk, for t ks,

ere ‘ee et ria

74 THE GRAPE,

As the grapes contitue to color, admit more air in cleas
days, open the 1 wer ventilators, a little at first, gradually
increasing, till a free current is obtained, which will assist
very much in improving the quality in all respects, and
likewise help in ripening the wood.

After all are ripe, the house may be thrown open day
and night, excepting in storms or wet weather, when it
ought to be partially closed, so as to exclude the rain, and
at the same time leave air to prevent the grapes from be-
coming mouldy or cracked.

When frosty nights begin to occur, the house ought to
be closed in the evening, and opened again early in the
morning. Let the temperature gradually cool down, but
keep the leaves from injury, for the grand object now is to
preserve them until they fall off perfectly ripe, when we
know that nature is satisfied, and the wood sufficiently

d to insure all requirements for another season’s
development.

Immediately after the leaves are fallen is the best time —
to prune; and as we are now considered to be dealing
with vines which have had two summers’ growth, cut
down the cane of the present season to the same length,
according to size or vigor, and likewise disbud it, as ad-
_ vised for the last fall pruning, which will make a total

length from tke bottom of nine to twelve feet. Cut the
side spurs to three or four buds from the extreme base,
according as they may be plump or well rounded, and at
__ the same time peel off the loose bark from the ontside of

MANAGEMENT FOR THE SECOND YEAR, 78

what is useful; but as this outer and locse bark is virtu-
ally dead, it is of no further use than protection against
cold; so that if the vines are carefully covered from ex
treme frost, there is no harm in taking it o
The vines may now be washed over with the prepara-
tion, as advised for last year, and brought down into the
same horizontal position; and as it is not easy to cover the
spurs, if wrapped around with straw, the better way is
to have long narrow boxes, open at the ends, or to
cover loosely with marzh hay, or evergreen boughs. Let
the house remain open through the winter, excepting in
stormy, wet, or very severe frosty weather, and shut up
the doors at night, ta prevent rats or mice from getting in,
as they will gnaw the bark, and do much mischief. It is
a = plan to ke/.p a cat inside.
eek or twa previous to the leaves falling, fork over
sea ike cxefnlly, both outside and inside; by doing
is tise. avy small rootlets which may be unavoid-
an broke» will have time to heal up before winter sets
in. When :«vere weather is apprehended, cover over the
whole zurtace with three or four inches of good stable ma-
nure, #34 add an RE bag ons og heme: or —< of about
the same depth to t g, and make
“ assurance doubly sure.”
As the general rentine of this season
ply to all others, se far as the Cold Bian is ee
it is useless to foliow this part of the subject further, than
by stating (as we are treating of a set of vines in the first
hearing), that the average = may be doubled next year,
according to robustness and health, which will admit of
ter. to fourteen pounds of grapes being taken off each, pro
viding all peste ft 1s well to observe the progrese =

ee THE GRAP¥,

ing them to carry so much fruit as the stronger ones. A
much larger we:ght than the above might be left to ripen
under some circumstances, but. asa general rule, it would
not be advisable, peas permanent prosperity is desired
What is mentioned is easily attainable, and nothing is
advised that I have not practically found to succeed 1
described. In ae in the fall of the third season th -€
is some differcuce, wich will be found fully described

CHAPTER VII

THE EARLY GRAPERY, OR FOROCIN:t
HOUSE.

Wuen the gardener aspires to the high attainmert of
m ing or improving landscape, he ought to possess the
marvellous ideality of the poet, and should be acquainted
— 3 nice perceptions ef light and shade that the
nsitive painter is endowed with; but when hi
abilities are applied to the forcing of the — it may be
i e puts his best practical talent a rving
faculties in the most elevated position. It is na that
there are many details of another character which require
as much skill, and they may be as successfully carriec
out, but the popularity of this justly esteemed fruit eclipses
everything else, and he looks with feelings of enthusiastic
pride upon the crep, as he views the fine clusters hanging
from his thrifty vines.
who are satisfied to have ripe grapes by the mid-
dle or latter end of June, need incur no very extraordinary
expense, but whoever would require the same at the be-
ginning of May, must expect to swallow dear morsels, and
there are not many, excepting those who have wealth at
enmmand that will attempt it. There is, however, a grow-
ing desire to enjoy the luxury, and in eneourage-
nent is given to the commercial cultivator in the higher

78 THE GRAPE.

bring a larger supply into market. However energetic
our most scientific truit-growers may be, and in this they
are, to say the least of it, on a par with any other profes-
sion, yet it cannot be expected, that they will supply an
article which will not meet with some profit. To this they
are entitled by the standard of reward which is given to
other attendants upon refinement, and why should there
be a lack in this instance, for those who set a dish of lus-
vious, tempting grapes before their guests at so early a
period, not only show their own hospitality to the invited,
but also pay a compliment to scientific horticulture, give
a stimulus to the exertions of the skilful practitioner, and
encourage the development of that important contributor
to the country’s wealth, Pomology. It has become fashion-
able to display a handsome arrangement of flowers on the
festive board at a time when every blade of vegetation
seems withered by the frigid blast ; no expense is here
spared, and why should it not be as much desired, to have
an equally rare representation of fruit? Let Pomona and
Flora meet on equal terms at our entertainments, recognize
each alike, and we shall prove that we can appreciate all
parts of the garden which the all wise Designer of the
universe has committed to our care and keeping, and which
he has commanded us to improve.

When very early forcing i is ideale, it ought never to
be attempted with plants that have not been previously
subjected more or less to the same process. If the vines
are young, they may, in the first year of bearing, be for-

_ warded somewhat, and in the next year they will be in

a fit state to be worked early. With older plants the case

is somewhat different, particularly if they be spur-pruned,

pcuaeetaes oo the continual

*

THE EARLY GRAPERY OR FORCING HOUSE. 79

forcing of the same rtock weakens, and eventually wears
aut the plant, in consequence of which it is best to alter-
nate ; to a certain extent we may admit, that there is some
truth in this, but not so much as some would seem ta

think ; if the borders were to be kept warm, and the roots
attended to with the same care as the tops, there pkey
not be so many examples of early imbecility to complain

of. True, all may be done that ingenuity can invent, and
yet the exact growing temperature of summer will not
_be obtained—artificial heat is not so stimulating as that of
the sun, but in our cloudless clime, even in the winter
time, there is much bright and clear weather, which con-
siderably assists our action, and if not quite so favorable
as we could wish, it is sufficiently so to enable us, with
management a proper conveniences, to so far stic-
ceed that a house of vines will admit of being uninter-
ruptedly forced for many years in succession, and with
far more certainty than the exploded notion of resting.
It is more reasonable, and much more consistent with
— that the same periodical action should be allowed
to go on, provided it is not opposed to the peculiar consti-
tution of any particular plant, and in the case before us,
there does not seem to be anything unnatural, unless the
allowing of a greater length of time for the full concentra-
_ tion of the juices can ese uniaaee and it is well known
that the finest grapes, and most prosperous vines, are to
be found in those countries which have longer and steadier
summers than our own. So that, if all is well done that
ought to be done during the earlier stages of development,
the plants have all the remainder of the summer to mature

80 THE GRAPH,

summer, and that which is given in the greatest ex
tremes of forcing, will be subjected to as much if not mort
of that element than is to be found in the very hottest
parts of the world, in which regions our present subject
does aot thrive; but in the most extreme cases, it is better
to ccmmence anew when nature is so far exhausted as to
be no further remunerative, and as in establishments where
this is required, there are always sevaral houses at work
there ‘2 no difficulty in having the worn-out lot replaced
by another planting.

Where grapes are required so early as above mentioned,
it is necessary that the outside borders should have a share
of attention, and we here take the opportunity of offering
a few general remarks on this head.

¥f we refer to those localities or climates where vegeta-
tion prospers best, and to the most fruitful regions, we
snall find that there is no great disparity in the average
degree of heat between the atmosphere and the ground
in which the roots of plants exist; consequently, there is
a reciprocity, and an equal action, or equal quiescence
over all parts. We know likewise from experience, that
if the head of any plant were exposed to summer heat,
and the roots in the cold of an ice house, prosperity could
not long continue; in such a case, if it were positively
seen, we should know the evil results that would follow,
and alter the circumstances accordingly, yet strange to
say, there are some men at the present day, strongly at-
tached to planting the grape vine cutside of the house,
and still stranger, the same persons are more particularly
so when forcing is intended; such men will argue that in

r, contrary to all true physiological

THE EARLY GRAPERY OR FORCING HOUSE. &!

for we all know the benefit of keeping all parts of other
plants in an equal temperature, or if ihere is any lifference
to be made. a gentle bottom heat under and among the
roots, and also about the lower parts of the stems, con-
duces to healthfulness and success. Why then should the
grape vine be made an exception, for it is subject to and
is governed by the same laws as other parts of the vege-
table kingdom, and the reason why it does
resist the bad treatment which is so often practised upon
it, is on account of its greater docility of constitution. For
late crops the planting outside is not of so much conse-
quence, as the natural temperature only differs compare
tively little from the inside, but for early forcing, it is
absolutely requisite that the stems should be in the house,
if possible, the roots onght to be kept in the same

= a oe de hot oe

may do well enongh where the winters are not severe, tat
in such a climate as the Middle and Northern States of

America, the same practice cannot be satisfactorily adopted,
for, owing to the severity of the weather, there would be
no end to labour, and the quantity of material required ;

so that we ought to have recourse to other and more con-
venient means to accomplish the same end, if we wish to —
acquire the best results, and endanger as little as possible

: contained in the soil, ned ae the Se of cold, e
gonly

+ e+

82 THE GRAPE,

better substitute and a much more effectual plan, is
eover the border with glazed sashes, or wooden shutters,
and to conduct an extra pipe from the hot-water apparatus,
or a length of flue, which may be conveyed around the
outside, and sunk in a cavity, so that the top may be open,
and even with the surface. During the time when forcing
is going on, the heat may in this way be made to circulate
over the surface, and forms a stratum of warm air w‘thin
the chamber made by the covering, which need not to be
elevated more than six inches above the upper level of
the border, so as to keep the collected heat more im-
mediately near the roots, and by limiting the space to be
heated, prevent waste. Wooden shutters are best, so far
as retaining the heat is concerned, there is likewise no dan-
ger of breakage, but glass sashes have the advantage of
collecting a considerable degree of calorie during sunshine,
and will somewhat counterbalance the loss occasioned by
its conducting properties. No doubt some persons, who
may he disposed to have early grapes, may think such
appurtenances very troublesome and expensive, to which
we would answer, if a thing is worth doing at all, do it
well, for all horticultural products are cheapest when well
attended to, and such a convenience once obtained will
_ last many years, as it may be removed in the summer sea-
son, and packed away, and the channel-in which the out-
‘side heating apparatus is placed, may at the same time be
covered over, to prevent any unsightly appearance, further
than the row of boards or flags, as the top will be level
with the surrounding surface. That good grapes have
been and still will continue to be foreed early without such
an appendage is ; admitted, but is it not more
in accordance with —_— to ps the footw ah wareth
at the

THE EARLY GRAPERY OR FORCING HOUSE. 83

romparatively superior, besides the enabling the plants
to go through the various stages of development, and after
concentration, with less injury to the whole body.

As stated above, it is generally conceded that a house
eannot be foreed very early, for many years, without the

another, each, or every other season ; thereby, as they ac-
knowledge, resting the vines. Where all other requisites
are added to good culture, there is no necessity for this,
for, when once a plant has been induced by forcing to
break early, it is afterwards disposed to the same, and it
only requires half the amount of heat to start such a plant
that will be necessary for one that has not been brought
the season previous to the same condition. As tothe weak
and slender bearing wood, it is quite reasonable that that
bei

not the power to supply the plant with the proper juices
in sufficient quantity for its own development.
cultivators are aware of this fact, and the adoption of the
above plan has resulted in the most marked success, and
we have known houses which were forced year after year,
produce heavy crops of fine fruit, when the borders were
covered as advised above. It is not to be expected that
as fine bunches or as large berries can be obtained from
_ the earliest forcing, but that a good quality may be had
— is a fact that needs no further demon-

tea early crop, the vines ought tohe prined & :
October, and if the leaves are not fallen at the time, let _

84 THE GRAPE.

part of November, by tymg down the hes ts of the vines as
before advised, and as it is presumed that the inside borders
have become very dry, give a thorough soaking of watcr
over the whole interior, wash well into all chinks and cre-
vices of the wood-work to dislodge insects, their eggs, or
larve , maintain for eight or ten days a n'ght temperature
of 45°, allowing it to rise to 60° or 65’ with clear sunlight
at the end of this time increase the heat for the next two
weeks to 50° by night, and 65° to 70” by day, with a free
use of the syringe over the vines, and keep a quantity of
evaporating pans on the flues or pipes constantly filled with
water. All artificial heat, excepting the open tank, has a
tendency to dry the air inside forcing houses more rapidly
than that from the sun, and as in the earlier stages of de-
velopment, a damp atmosphere is particularly requisite,
this point cannot be too carefully attended to. According
as the vies is increased, let the moisture eorrespond—-
yaw prl morning. and imitate that as near as
ssible. "Th he buds will be swelling by this time, and
most likely the weather severe, when care must be used in
ventilaticrg. Our own practice in all plant culture is, not
to admit any bottom air from the front lights through the
winter months, being convinced from repeated experiments
in different ways, and with many plants, that is one of the
mst injurious methods that can be resorted to. The
temperature may be sufficiently lowered, and a current of
whclesome air maintained, by letting the heat pass off at
the top ventilators, which it is sure to do from its own re
_ duce specific gravity, and accordingly as it escapes ther
is a certainty of a fresh supply beingdrawn in through th
laps of the glass, and other apertures, which occur even
_ in the tightest constructed houses; depend upon it the
ower or front part of — winter worked house, celia

THE EARLY GRAPERY OR FURCING HOUSE, 8

stream of cold air to pass over and among the leaves, a
it traverses upwards, and forces the heat out; most of the
mildew that attacks roses and verbenas in the winter time
is produced by this cause, and if such pants as these suffer
surely the grape vine must share the same fate. One of

,
from that which is essential for its well-doing inside of the
house ; and particularly during its more easily injured
stages, there are the most frigid blasts to contend against
and very sudden transitions, from dull or cloudy weathier,
to bright sunshine; owing to which it behooves us to study
earcfully how we proceed, and imitate as nearly as we can
those peculiarities of natural climate which observation
shows to be conducive to the most healthy development.
This is more particularly mentioned , because many

Tsons are prone to tae advantage of all the little oppor.
tunities that oceur to admit “fresh air,” without taking into
consideration these principles in trying to accomplish the
object in view.

So soon as the buds are well burst, the vines may he
tied to the wires in their permanent position, and the heat
very slowly but gradually increased ; if it were possible
to be so exact, about two thirds of a degree per night and
one each day in clear weather would be about an average,
until 65° at night, and 80° to 90’ by day (according as it
might be cloudy or sunshine) were arrived at. As the
shoots continue to elongate, tie them to the side wires, but

careful not to commence this operation too soon, as they
are very brittle, and subject to break off at the axil when
yong. The bunches by this time willbe readily seen ard

86 THE GRAPE.

difference now iequired between this and the Cold
Grapery, is, in maintaining as nearly as possivle the same
gr wing temperature, which is more simply obtained when
the weather is genial; and from what explanations ure
given, it will only require a little a on the pari
of the cultivator to carry out these instru
en the fruit begins to ripen, the ‘rank ties may Le
sean on soft and mild days, but not otherwise, for any-
thing like a sudden check will injure the color, and stay
the carbonic yrs change which at this time is going
on in the , by which the sugar may more or less
abound, sce as this action is encouraged or inter-
cepted. It is also advisable at this exact period, that
the night temperature be kept very carefully up tothe
average until the fruit is fully ripe; a trifle of prolonged
firing more than pays forthe small extra quantity ee fuel
and labor, by the better sample which is thereby
If the outside borders are covered by glass or ake
they will require an occasional supply of water, say three
or four times between the period of the fruit setting and
the final swelling, which may be accomplished by lifting
the covers, one by one, for the time being, when the wea-
ther is mild, and never use water which is cold for this or
any other purpose in grape-growing. Have a tank large
- enough for all uses situated in some convenient part of
the house, and keep it filled, so that what is applied may

: be of an equal temperature, or nearly so with the air.

- - When the sine is all well ripened, it is desirable to
: keep a part of it for successional use, and the house may
now be freely ventilated during clear and warm weather,
but when fog, damp, or cold prevails, the air ought to be
only :

THE EARLY GRAPERY 9R FORCING HOUSE. 87

stage, to the extreme changes that frequently occur,
This free ventilation will, in the course of a week or two,
prepare the ieaves for the full and uncontrolled action of
the air, and the house may then be left open night and
day throughout the remainder of the season, and tlere

first of which become a great pest to early forced vines
when not attended to

To obtain a wean early crop, which may be considered
to be ripe by the middle of June, or early part of July, it
will be necessary to apply fire heat from the beginning
or middle of February, as the case may be; and as ail

last y
outside in = the shade, at sunrise, noon, and ten o relack at
night—with the current kind of weather, and occasional
remarks, will, perhaps, supply any deficiency that may
have accidentally oceurred.

GATE. rsp. | WEATHER. REMARKS,
'

Beb 34 /40.60.4317.22 15 Cloudy, with snow thoroughly ¢'
4thi4l 63.41/16 .21 _ 1: tig -~ the inside borders
5thi4l .65.42/18.38.24|Partiaily cloudy soaked with
6th/43.62. spose wom ce
7thi43.62_47/14 36. 24\Cloudy afternooa.

1.61. -48.4i/Heavy rai y
9thj47 76 47. 34,Clear,
3. AG. ae
Lit ~76.4916.21_. -
-T1.50I2132.24] ¢
13th}49. 6855136 41 a61F
I: s pope
AL

THE GRAPE.

88
t t
DATE \ INSIDE. | ocrape, WEATHER, REMARKS.
! |
" !
|
Feb lothisd.7f.50i38.4 Ete
2001 36.71.5726. 2. 22Severe suo w storm. |
21st 52.74 .56/23.36 .22)
22.1 (60.82.61/28 .44.36/Clea sey Grizzly Fronugnan begin
58 .84.59)16.z9.12\Clear, strong wind. burst the Luds,
241\57 .85 6012.38 30|Partially clouded.
h'58 .88 .59}20.36.241Ulea White Fi i 4 Ch
Wth|57 .69 6030.43 44: ae rain & wind selas bursting.
27thi55 . 79.59/37 .45.23|snow clea: evening)
28thi59 85 .61)20.36. 30) 4:
March 121/60.87.¢2,26.42.3u|Pa wartially cloudy.
2d [61.88 .62/32.44_36\Uendy afternoon.
yale 36.47 .35! mage y morning. Hamburgh i Tokay rast
4th 150.77 . 62 36.48 41 Slight fog. ing.
5thi59.33.61/36.42 30) oudy morning, Muscat brig
6th58 85 .6031.52
759 86.62/30 51. a
-73.60136.44 38) rogey all day. “and evening.
9th 98-72.61137.50.38]
'd~ .73.6037 4.

ICE
a
sees
AAKS
rane

Tied up Chasselas Fontaime
bleau.

THE EARLY GRAPERY OR FORCING HOUSER 89

oo
~e

Sx,
ite
IFSR

EEE

Hee

RGSE
was

’

Be

ABEe

~ hw
eRRERE ES

‘0 to oo
ent

py nag
to thin Ham.

FS

De, Chassel.

Wintshcck chivnni
over inside borders.

Grapes begining to “staze.

Water overhead discon-
tinue

Commenced fo open lower
ventialors.

Hy

'y Frontignan beg

ahi at
aes last swell
~ ing. a

Hambarghs begin to color

Musests beg’r toc slor.

THE GRAPE,

| WEATHER. REMARKS.

os . Cy hh 1, Yr, . 1

“ ‘e “

with rain. | Cut White Frontignan.
iS Cut Grizzly Frontignan.
Thunder showers. | Cut Hamburghs.
= = Cut Cannon | Museat,
Cut Muscat of Alexandria,
-81.70|Cloudy with rain.

Mie lsaves wlio insects and keep up a healthy

kept at all times,
BP enlonetipoad montages glint peg h pee am

excepting during ~ery
a As

GHAPTER VIITf.
POT CULTURE.

Tue growing and fruiting of the grape-vine in pots of
tubs is, in some parts of Europe, very much practised at
the present day, and some of our best practical men in this
country are in favor of its being more generally adopted.

As this mode requires the most vigilant care, we must
consider the annual amount of labor incurred in watering,
potting, and other attention which is required, besides the
expense of pots or tubs in which to grow the plants, and
also the continual raising of fresh stock. On the other, or
eredit side, there is the difference with regard to accom-
modation and conveniences ; pot culture takes up no
outside the house ; the expense of outer borders, covering,
&c., is avoided ; but there is a yearly item im pre
compost which hd amounts to about the sum that top-
dressings woul uire—a manure-water tank, or cistern,
is bealataly necessary to supply the vines with nourish-
ment, while growing freely; but this is a thing that ought
to be on every place that pretends to good gardening. As
to house-room, what will produce a given quantity of fruit
by the usnal mode, will de the same in pot culture; and
all things considered, if sufficient care and attention can
be relied on at all times, the latter mode has the prefer
ence; still it ought to be borne in mind, that without all
this, a poor sample of watery fruit will be the only reward,
while with it, fine _ quality, can be realized

“cine oe arpa 257

and, considering the contingencies, it i oy eet

92 THE GRAPE.

If we consider that each fruiting plant in this case wih
one square yard, which is about an average, a
house twelve fee: wide will accommodate three rows, and
admit room for a pathway ; and allowing forty feet as the
fength, there will be house-room for thirty-nine vines,
upon each of which may be ripened six to seven pounds
of grapes, which will make the whole crop from two hzr-
dred and thirty to two hundred and seventy pounds
weignt. If the vines were planted out three feet apart,
in the usaal way, the same house would contain thirteen
plants to the roof, and the same number on the back wall;
but as the latter will only hold good for two or three
years, on account of shade, or may haves been used up by
previous cropping, they can only be put down as a
mall set-off against the advantages o. the other side.
These thirteen vines, if forced equally zarly, cannot be
expected to produce more than an ayuage of fifteen
pounds, which will give a total is! one mee _ and ninety-
five pounds. Ifthe above calculati trect—and we
judge from practical experience in the sation atk weight
of produce is in favor of pot culture; but as we would not
mislead, it is necessary to repeat, that the same quality is
not to be obtained without skill, and the mosi earefut
attention.
There may appear to be an objection to poi culture,
from the generai understanding, that when the root: of a

beneath, which ought to be made suita

POT CULTURE. 9a

ble and fertile for the purpose. Under these circumstan
ces, and with the addition of liquid manure, there will he
enough organized matter stored ap for another season to
maintain and develop all the next year’s requirements
But allowing that only one fruiting could be realized, it is
presuined that the crop would be ripe by the middle of
May at the latest, and either all cut, or fit for removal to
and cooler apartment; and as in such case the
plant- would not be wanted again, the roots that may have
gone into the base below might be cut off, without any
detriment to the quality of the fruit. The young succes-
sion plants previous to this will have been only in a state
of propagation, and haye occupied nc more space or head
room than a ainsi deep hot-bed frame would furnish ;
80 that, afte: ring of the house is again forked over,
anda —* more manure added, this young stock may
be brought in, and established in their permanent position
Thus will one house, with the exception of a small pit, or
hot-bei, answer all purposes, and will be kept constantly
at work. :
Vines for this purpose may be propagated from “ eyes”
in the usual way, by coiling, and by layers—(see Propaga-
tion). When eyes are used, the young plants, after ui
well rooted, nent to be encouraged by plenty of pot roo
and a fine genial, growing temperature maintained, dae
to that — ‘ fruiting. The most suitable compost is
the peeling, or upper sw rd of a giod pasture, which has
laid together until the grass is dead, but not further de-
composed. Chop this into small pieces with the spade

add an equal quantity of well decomposed barn-yard ma-

ture, and if there are any clean broken bones to be had,
or, what is the next best substitute, lime-rubbish, mix a
quantity, say sonsinioh- porte and oe maak se maeae
charcoal lumps. et rich

94 THE GRAPE.

material, in which the roots will ramify very freeiy. At
the first move from the striking-pot an ordinarily fertile
soil is best, and the pot may be a quart in measure. A3
the young plant continues to progress, and has grown a
foot or eighteen inches in height, it will be safe to remove
into one of a gallon size, using the prepared compost, and
make sure of efficient drainage by throwing over the bot-
tom a couple of inches of ike or, still better, pieces of
coal; over this put a portion of the roughest of the
compost, and fill into near the top with the finer part, after
having placed the plant in its proper place and position.
Be careful not to break the ball of earth, during removal,
when the pot is turned upside down, which may be pre-
vented by giving the upper edge a smart rap on any solid
substance near at hand, and keeping the fingers over the
under surface, so as to receive the whole as it becomes
liberated. After potting, give a good watering, and as the
stems continue to elongate, tie them up carefully to stakes,
until they have attained the height of seven feet, when
the tops ae be pinched off. Throughout the season the
es will continue to push fresh growth, which
— to be ak each time, one leaf above the pre-
vious operation. The object of this is to ste the

= young vines from extending so much growt!
- eause the lower leaves to be shaded, and see not
_ able to elaborate the juices sufficiently to produce matured
_ buds im the axils, the result of wh'ch is, a deficiency in the

y. The same —— as to potting mnut be be

POT CULTURE. 95

gone through at this as at the last remcve, and the same
material used, and particular care should be taken “hat no
worms, or the larve of beetles be in the ei mpost. Itisa
gocl plan to use a little caustic powdered lime through

¢ mass, a short time previous to using, which is sure ¢s -
have the desired effect, and is likewise heneficial to the
plart. ede pee the whole summer ~ — | Semele
t, moisture, &c., thati for planted.

out ace will be right for those in pots; and if the best

fall they may be cut back, the strongest to three feet, and
the weaker ones to two feet six inches above the pot, and
if there be a portion that are not strong enough to
— it is best to head them eck to pg lowest good bud
same time. These latter, in the spring following,
van be removed out of the pots, and the soil shaken from
the roots, which ought to be somewhat shortened in, and
the plant again replaced, using fresh compost of the same
kind, with the exception of a small quantity of good, fresh
earth, but only sufficient of this to merely cover the roots,
and keep the richer material from coming in close contact
until the young fibres are emitted. Young, healthy roots
will push into and Juxuriate in a base that would destroy
those which are mutilated; hence the caution.

When the coiling method is adopted (see Propagation,
page 133), the fruiting-sized pot may be used at once,
and the after treatment will be the same as for the others
This is the best method for obtaining strong vines for pat
culture in the least possible time, and when there is a
rurplus supply of canes from other houses at pruning time, _

v6 THE GRAPE.

and very pretty object, but much depends upon the sicety
of training. To gain this advantage, the plant ought not
to be longer than is actually necessary, and the fruiting
branches should be as near the surface of the pot as is
eonsistent with securing good plump buds to start from,
which can be mostly gained with a cane of two feet six
inches to three feet long. After it is seen which shoots
will produce the best bunches, choose six or seven which
are uearly equidistant from each other, between the top
and bottom, and as they elongate tie them
- out horizontaliy, diverging on all sides

m the stem, which may be very neat-
iy done by fixing a wire trellis, as seen

in fig. 15, inside the pot. This is also ser-
viceable to suspend the shoulders of the
bunches to, and if not made of teo heavy
material, is scarcely visible, being decidedly
preferable to a display of wooden supports.
It should, however, be put over the plant

is danger of breaking the igre shoots, es

quence when the wood is not over strong, and “nder these
cireumstances the bearing shoots may be eut clean away
‘so soon as the fruit is ent, which adults the light and sun
to the remaining leaves on the maiden spurs, thereby
enabling them to have full scope, and mega ers

_ dom during the after part of the summ Immediately
_ after the leaves are fallen is the best psig
at the same time, the reots that have gone into the soil
_ below may be cut away, the pots cleaned, and the vines
_— eis icine Let all new ge

POT CULTURE. 97

quietly to rest for a time by keeping a low temperature
with plenty of air night and day, and only giving enongh
water to prevent the reots and branches from shrivelling,
‘Two or three weeks before commencing afresh, the plants
ought to be carefully turned out of the pots without dis
turbing the balls, the roots examined, and any decayed
portions cut clean off; at the same time take away a
portion of the outer soil, and after putting a good quantity
of drainage into each clean pot, again place the plant as
before, filling in with some of the before-mentioned com-
ost. Before they are again placed in their permanent
situation, let the under base be forked over, and some
more decomposed barn-yard manure ad
When growth is progressing freely, at sulk times, from

ought to be applied; on this, in a great measure, depends
success, or the best of quality. Each third or fourth supply
of water should be, either diluted drainage from the dung-
hill, or guano dissolved, in the quantity of one ounce to
the gallon; and if these two are alternated it is still better
The remainder of the treatment required is the same as
for other culture, and if the above directions are observed.
there is no fear of failure.

CHAPTER IX.
THE RETARDING HOUSE,

Tue object of the Retarding House is the reverse of
the Early Grapery. In the latter we wish to forward as
much as possible the ripening of the fruit, while in the
former, the intention is to retard it so far as can be done.
It is therefore evident that the two features requirs very
different management fact, in one, the process really
and truly speaking, if qe — ane to the
vine the requirement of its own or origi stitution,
by the assistance of artificial heat at PE time <n the
pant is best able to be benefited by it, while the other
_ has the same applied, only to keep out the frost at mid-
winter, and to create a dry atmosphere when the fruit is
hanging ripe, for the purpose of preserving it.

_ From what has been previously explained, it will be
readily seen that some difficulty must occur, when we are
_ trying to carry out in cultivation anything that is opposed
_ to nature, or attempting to thwart her established vitality;
such becomes true here, for, our intention is to stay as
much as possible that free and brisk action which alone

THE RETARDING HOUSE. 99

other, securing the right aspect of the house, which is fully
explained, page 37. It is also essentially requisite to give
free ventilation, both day and night, excepting in severe
weather, during the whole of the spring months, by which
a cool temperature may be maintained, and the early flow
of the sap prevented. When it is seen that the buds car
be no longer kept from bursting, the house may be closed,
but as it is not advisable to raise so high a temperature in
this, as in the other successions, there ought not to be so
much water applied, because, if it be too liberally suppliea
in this counteraction of the natural energy, there would
be too much moisture absorbed from the atmosphere by
the leaves, and from the soil by the roots; the consequence
of which would be too great a ‘cimedacanes of fluid
matter, without an equivalent amount of carbonized and
solid material, and hence, a plethoric ~~ of the whole
strueture—a liability to disease—want o I

blossoms—a bad set of inferior reste aeabe consequently,
poor quality of badly flavored fruit. Water may, how-
ever, be administered with discretion. According as the
growth progresses, as it is more or less active, or the
weather is wet and cold, or dry and hot, so let the water
be given or withheld. When the leaves are fully develop-
ed, the shoots stopped, mt the biessows ne expenvied, syring-

oe 1.

bright mornings, for, unless due uitlen be exercised

is more likely to
attack the Retarding House than any other, and conse-
quently, greater vigilance is necessary. It is most gener-
ally to oe —— while the fruit is swelling, and

matter has become so far concen-

2...

peEn mies te meses oe aes :

100 THE GRAPE.

are in such a state. during the months uf July and Aug st
when the gporules of the fungus are most active, it is very
necessary to keep careful watch, and avoid as much as
pessible all sudden transitions of temperature; do not
allow the house to be closed until it beeomes hot, but
admit air freely whenever required; be wary of bottom
dialts, keep the lower ventilators closed in damp weather,
and if such continues for any length of time with a humid
atmosphere, a little artificial heat may be applied for the
time being, with the upper ventilators opened; which will
keep down the thermometer, dry the air, and stay the
progress of the mildew if it be present, or prevent its
germination if not so. Sulphur aught to be liberally
strewed over the floor for the same purpose, and if a small
quantity be thrown on the fiue, avoiding the hottest enil, or
on any part of the hot water pipes; as the ease may be,
there need not be any fear of its ravages extending. An-
other mischief to be expected at times to this erop is,
shrivel and shanking, the best means of avoiding which is
to continue the same regularity of management that has
been observed through the whole progress, and until the
fruit is eolored; after this period there is no danger, and
the house may afterwards be left open constantly, or par-
tially, or entirely closed, as the weather may be wet or
frosty. A portion of the grapes in this house will have to
remain on the vines during the winter, and must be kept
quite dry and free from frost, which makes it necessary to
use a trifle of fire-heat at times, just enough, but not more
than, to answer the purpose; and if the berries were not
well thinned at the proper time, they ought to be furtha
redueed in number now, so that they may hang loosely,
a oe close eontact, aud admitting a free

THE RETARDING HOUSE. 101

prituing, it is well not to make a general rule of cutt.ng
all at once, or leaving the vines until the crop is cleared,
but do it so soon as the leaves are turned yellovy, or fallen ;
and the whole of the fruit is gathered on each separate
plant, which will enable the operator to accomplish a @& od
part of this work sooner, and give a portion of the stock
a better chatice of the same action that we always find of
service, by a periodical and judicious pruning in all other
instances. This is more strictly applicable where the
ur method is adopted, but is nevertheless to be recom-
mended for the long rod, as the latter offers greater facili.
ties than the former, betatisé there is a less disposition to
break or burst the buds, with a young and strong cane in
early spring, than with spurs; and as the whole of the
—_ bearing shoot is taken away, there is only one
cut exposed to the danger of bleeding; a subject of some
importance, if the fruit has been kept on the vine until
late. In such case, immediately oh removing the branch,
the severed surface should be covered over with a coating
of grafting wax, white lead, or, what is still better, finely
powdered oyster-shells and cheese, worked together into a
thick cement, and a portion rubbed well into the exposed
his, we repeat, ought to be done immediately

baer pruning, and all danger of bleeding will be avoided.
It is of little use to attempt to stop the sap after it has
commenced to flow, for there is a propelling power in the
action of a plant at this time that is truly wonderful; and

although there is not so much injury from the loss of a

portion of the fluid as some persons would have us believe
still it is better to prevent the waste, for it certainly does
sheck, to some extent, the fall burst of nature, as we have
er satisfactorily
may be oe the ae caution, and
i une oe ght tobe

= they will re-

102 THE GRAPE.

abandoned ; ¢o it ought, were it not for the desirablenesa
of having xipe grapes at mid-winter, and before the earliest
house can be made to produce them; and it certainly is,
these advantages considered, worth a little trouble and
crtra care.

In taking a review of the various succession crops here-
wfore treated on, we may now calculate how long it is
possible to have ripe grapes fresh from the vine. The
First Early can be had from the beginning of May, and
will continue to the middle of June, when the Second
Early will be ready, and give a supply until the niddle of
August. The Cold Grapery now comes in, and will furnish
a general quantity till the middle of November; after this,
the Retarding House gives its quota on to the last of Feb-
ruary, which collectively leaves only two months deficient,
or without a supply; and as there are some
Museats, Frontignans, and Chasselas, that may be pre-
served by care, and if it is absolutely required, even in
this remaining short period, a far better sample may be
furnished than is to be had from the finest quality of im-
ported raisins; so that, where expense is no object, and
the luxury is ecended, it may be enjoyed without said
mission.

If the air of the grapery be kept dry enough, some

s will remain good on the vine until they become
raisins; but it is not convenient at all times to leave them
so, and in such case, those that are to be preserved may
be cut when they can no longer be left When they are
removed, the bunches ought to be carefully examined,
and all injured or decayed berries cut out, and suspended,

the reverse way to that in which they were grown, by
hooked wires fixed to a frame-work, so that each bunch

gran a aad 2 ee

THE REiARDING HOUSE. 1085
‘rom the light, and where there is enough fire at suitable
times to keep the temperature from 40° to 50°. A well-
planned fruit-room is all that is needed, and where there
is not such a convenience, the above hints may assist in
directing attention to some other apartment about the
premises that will answer the purpose, and enable the
lever of this ambrosial fruit to enjoy to the fullest extent
this munificent gift of our benevolent Creator.

CHAPTER X
LIS’ OF VARIETIES.

To begin to individualize, or render a plain exposition
t») the uninitiated in grape nomenclature, is a very difficult
affair, As it now stands before the public, it is nothing
more than a heterogeneous jumble of confusion, and the

after a thoroughly practical understanding of the
matter requires more time, patience, and expense, than
even the enthusiast call be willing to encounter in the
investigation, if he only knew beforehand the maze he
had to travel through. To such an extent have the various
synonymes bicmas multiplied, that the examination of
them shows clearly the ridiculousness of the number, and

we know are most familiar in the society in which we live,
_ and only introducing such kinds as are distinct, or worthy
of cultivation, headed by the most gn name ee bea
_ it is known in our midst. It would be :
to introdnee and deseribe some hundred seated ste
bat when they were applied for, and obtained, wich they
‘fre: eries in our own country

LIST OF VARIETIES. 105

vexativn when they were proved. We take in this case
a utilitariart view of the subject, and would leaye the
further action open to sega of unlimited means and un-
controlled enthusiasm tu go along with their own fancy
They cannot be better ic ea and the results of their
labors will be of the same national benefit as is that of
the only theoretical and experimental farmer; good collee
tively, at the expense of the individual, and praiseworthy.
without profit, to the searcher after progressive improve-
ment. It is to the exertions of such laudable persons that
we are indebted for much of our knowledge and gain, and
such deserye more often than they receive the gratitude
of their fellow men and a monument for their patriotism
Having said thus much, it becomes our duty to keep our

ition, and give in the first place a general descriptive
Sigil Gun bane sorts in cultivation, and select out of the
see = that are adapted to the various pur-

BLACK OR PURPLE.

Buack Hamsuren. (syn. Haupt n Court Vine--
Frankendale.)—Bunches large, compact and well shoul-
dered. Berries large, round, black, flavor full and sweet
The best black grape grown for table use.

Vieroria Hampureu—Similar to the above when
true ; the berries somewhat larger and yery black, and the

ber
ties large, very black, round, appearing (ander good
pete as if hammered on the surface; a fine grape; bat
fit quite equal to the first in flayor.
_Witworr’s No. 16.—A seedling from
seareely to be distingui:

106° THE GRAPE.

short and close, berries roundish oval, black, rather small,
covered with a blue bloom, flavor not good until fully
ripe. An early variety of second rate quality for the
grapery, but suitable for out-door culture. ‘The leaves of
‘his sort are pubescent, hence its name from the white
fowny appearance.

Brack Custer. (syn. Black July.)—Bunch li and
clustered ; berries jet black, small, flavor sprightly but

worth room in the grapery. The leaves of this are free
of the downiness mentioned in the last.

West's St. Perers. (syn. Black Lombardy—Poonah
—Rais ” des Carmes.)—Bunches —— size, long, —

ing, wall shouldered; berries medium size, oval, very
black, covered with a blue bloom, very sweet cus sprightly;
a fine late sort.

Mircuety’s Sr. Perers—Similar to the above, but a
handsomer bunch and berry.

ZiNFINDAL—Bunches long, peculiar in form, being some-
times composed of two shoulders, berries roundish oval,
black, sweet, but tame, a good hardy sort.

round, viack, musky and sweet, a good grape, but bad to
eolor, aud in some houses subject to shank.

Buacn Prince. (syn. Cambridge Botanic Garden—
Alizant.}- -Bunches long, tapering and well shouldered
berries a futle above medium size, oval, black, very swee
url sprightly, a first-rate sort.

Sumanee’ s HeNtiNG.—Bunches long, tapering,

LIST OF VARIETIES. 197

Hamturgh, but rather loose; berries large, black, flavor
good ; useful as a late grape.

Esrerione {syn. Cumberland Lodge—Blue Windsor.)
—Bunches large shouldered ; berries medium size, black

ith fine bloom; pretty, but second rate.

PRINCE diecer: (syn. —- Albert.)}—Bunches large,
reo shouldered, and tapering; berries medium size

black ; flesh solid, sweet and sprightly This is a

sas strong grower, and shy bearer, except in poor soil,
otherwise it is a first-rate late sort. We are inclined to
think that the Black Barbarossa will prove the same as this.

Brack Morocco. (syn. Black Muscadet.)}—Bunches large
- and heavy shouldered; berries large, ovoid, brownish
black when fully ripe, flesh solid and only second quality ;
a very late grape, and with fire-heat tolerably good.

PurPLe FRONTIGNAN. (syn. Purple Cons'antia—B!ue

vor slightly musky, and agreeable. This grape
ee the true Black Frontignan are so generally mixed up
in different collections, as to frequently lead to disputes
in their individual identity ; our own observation inclines
to distinctness of the two sorts, the black scarcely ever
colors her than a brownish jet; while the pu
assumes a true bluish-black, even with or culture.
The former has also a stronger musky flavor, and will
hang until they become raisins.

loose, berries rather large, round, black ; flavor sweet ; a
_ good late grape but not a very free bearer.
WHITE AND AMBER COLORED.
_ Cusssmtas DE Sapo eae (syn. Che
Chas Chasselaa—C

ius THE GRAPE.

Bur Sur Aube.\—Bunches tapering, well-shouldeaed, me
dium size; berries round, medium size, amber-white
flayor sweet and full. One of the most reliable aad
early of white grapes, and the very best quality

Mauvasia. (syn. Grove-end Sweet Water ~ Barly
White Malvoise.}—Bunches rather below medium size
small shoulders, tapering; berries greenish-amber, below
medinm size, roundish oval, transparent, very sweet; a
good early kind.

Go.pen CxasseLas.—Bunches long and tapering ; ber-
ries ium size, round, yellowish-amber color; swect
and sprightly. With fire heat this is a good grape, but in
the Cold Grapery it is often a bad setter, and is at all
times somewhat uncertain

Roya Seeeacenns- thee rape is often ape 20
be the same as Chasselas Mabaso nie, although quit
tinct. The bunch of this variety is much larger, ie the
color more inclining to yellow. It is seldom seen true;
the last named being often substituted for it

Cuassetas Musque.(syn. Muscat Blanc Hat if—Joslyns
St. Albans.)—Bunches medium size, tapering; berries
round, flattened on the end; igo iia musky, rich,
and very sweet; a free bearer, and o f the finest

in cultivation; it is, however, very sill Ne to crack.
if nek well yentilated, and more than usually subject te

shrivel.
Waite Gascotne. —Bunches rather large, well-should-
‘lees ; berries o white, flavor good. ae
ca ates. lee house. <A good so’
VERDELHO. (syn. Madeira Wine Grape. ee Ta-
“ther small, loose; berries medium size, oval, yellowish-

| Worre Foner ym True ced Blone.}~

LIST OF VARIETIES. Loy

Bunches long and compact ; berries roundish-ov J, medium
size, white, sweet, and pleasant; a fine sort, but au Lject
to shiivel when growing in a wet border.

Waite FRontignan. (syn. Waite Constantia —Whit
Frontignac—Muscat Blane.)}—Bunches below medium size
Ing, small shouldered; berries medium size, round, ligh:
amber, musky and sweet ; a fine early sort.

Decon’s Supers. (syn Sahibee.} — Bunches rather
large and handsome ; berries large, oval, amber color, ap-

“pearing as if leinted over the surface. This is a splendid
looking grape, but of second quality ; and in a cold house
often a bad setter.

Wuite Nice. (syn. Xeres.) — Bunches very large, and
many shouldered; berries medium size, round, amber-
white, sweet, and tasted. A fine sort, an
sionally most extraordinarily large. It has been grown to
nineteen pounds weight, but such bunches are only ex-

ceptions. Many Spaniards to whom we have shown this
grape, recognize it as the one from which sherry wine is
made.

Syrian—Bunches very large, and heavy shouldered :
berries large, slightly oval, white and sweet. If we hare

at the present time any grape in cultivation which is the
the one brought by spies out of the land of Canaan, this is
the most likely sort. It is always large, and sometimes
very heavy ; a fine late kind.

Waite Lisgon. (syn. White Hamburgh— White Porta-
gal.!—Bunches sometimes large shouldered, large and ra-
ther loose, but when well grown very handsome ; berrice
oval, white, large, solid; flavor sweet, but sly second
rate This isthe grape ‘that i is imported from Enrope ir
jars. It is a fine sort for the Retarding House, as it keeps
well and ripens late.

Pirmaston Wuirs Cucsrse—Bunches medium size —

110 THE GRAPE.

compact; berries round, white, medium size, sweet, and
good flavored. A fine early sort of the Chasselas class.

Scorcy Wuire Ciuster.—Very like the above.

Gnromier Du CANTAL. (syn. Decandoile?) — Bunches
large, broad, heavy shouldered ; berries large, round, am-
ber colored, blotched with purplish brown, sweet, and
briek flavored ; very thin skinned; a good sort for imme-

use, but soon spoils.

De La Paestine.—Bunches much branched, and very

long, often two feet; shoulders very numerous and long ;
below medium size, oval, amber colored, very

sweet. A good late fancy kind, and distinct in appear-
ance.

Dutcu Sweet Warer. (syn. Pearl Drop— Pareyl
Druyf.\—Bunches medium size, compact, and well-should-
ered; in form like Hamburgh; berries large, round, trans-
parent, white, very sweet, skin thin. A fine early sort,
seldom seen true, the old White Sweet Water being often
substituted.

Muscat or ALEXANDRIA. (syn. White Muscat—Ma-
laga.)\—Bunches handsome, well formed, and large ; ber-
_ ries large, oval, amber colored, musky, and sweet. Un-
questionably one of the finest grapes in cultivation, but
_ requires artificial heat, particularly while in bloom.

Cannon Hatt Muscat—Very like the above, but of —
more robust growth, and larger berries; the bunches also
are generally more tapering, and *he stamens six, occasion-
ally seven, in number
_ Muscat or Lunet—Like the Muscat of Alexandria,
with smaller berries.

CHARLESWORTH ae — Bunches large, long, and
well shouldered ; berries large, round'sh oval,

6

ee ‘Ths ina good vay
sometimes mistaken for

mseat of Alexandrin;

LIST. OF VARIETIES, lil

though quite distinct. The et of this is more jleeply
cut, and not reflexed on the ed

Write Corinta.—Bunches a: ; berries close set
small, very pretty, and prolific, a fancy kind.

RED AND TAWNY COLORED.

Rep Traminer—Bunches below medium size, should.
ered anl tapering; berries rather small, round, of a rus
sety-red color; a good sort. This is one of the best wine
grapes of the Rhine, and suitable in some situations for out
door culture in our own climate.

Rep QuassgExas. (syn. Red Muscadine— Muscadim
Rouge.}—Bunches medium size, shouldered; berries me-
dium size, round, sweet, and good. This variety is re-
markable for having the berries red from the first, and

changing toa — shade when ripe. The
wood ‘diai is of a reddish col

Rose Cuassetas. (syn. Violet Chasselas.) — Bunches
below medium size, shouldered ; = below medium,
round, rose color, sweet. A goo

AvsTRIAN MuscaT.—Bunches nado size, very com-
2 berries closely set, roundish-oval, tawny-red ;

his grape is not unlike the Grizzly fein
ee in flavor or appearance, but is not so good; and is
subject to crack, but hangs long after being ripe.

GrizzLy FrontigNan. (syn. Red Constantia—Grizcly

Prontignac—Muscat Gris.}—Bunches tapering with smal]
shoulders, below medium size. Berries, eres rize,
xound, grizzly red, musky, rich and sweet. A fine
grape, and hangs well after being ripe. a
— = Nice. Goes Queen of Lombardy.) Punches

me THE GRAPE.
heare: if spurred in too close. It may be preserved as
long as the imported White Lisbon.

FLaME-COLORED ‘Tokay, (syn. Red Lombardy.)—
Bunches very large, ldo and handsome
herrics large, close-set, roundish, pale red, sweet and
oo A fine late grape.*

Ss most persons will only reauire to grow the finest
quality, and many have but a limited space, the above
list is ‘cdieded to the best twenty, ten, and — —
so far as can be a variety of color), as follow

COLD GRAPERY.

Bi =

Black Hamburgh, White Gascoine,
Willmott’s Hamburgh, White Frontignan,

West’s St. Peters, White Nice,

Black Prince, Syrian,
Pitmaston White Cluster

Black Frontignan,
Zinfindal, De la Palestine,
Red Traminer, Red Muscadine,
Rose Chasselas, Grizzly Frontignan,
Chasselas Fontainebleau. Reine de Nice,
Chasselas Musqué, Royal Muscadine.

TEN
Black Hamburgh, Chasselas Fontainebleau,
West’s St. Peters, Syrian,

Prince, Zinfindal,

White Frontignan, Reine de Nice,
Grizzly Frontignan, Chasselas Musqué.

FIVE.
Black Hamburgh, White Frontignan,

_ Chasselas Fontainebican:

- West’s St. Peters,
Black Prince,

LIST OF VARIETIES. 113

Muscat of Alr <andria, Grizzly Froutignan,

Black Hamburgh, White F rontignan,
Willmot’s Hamburgh, Chasselas Musque,
butch Sweetwater, Black Prince.

BEST PIVE.
Muscat of Alexandria, Grizzly Frontignan,
Black Hamburgh, lack Prince.

Chasselas Fontainebleau,

RETARDING HOUSE.

BEST TEN.
Black Hamburgh, White Lisbon,
Black Prince, Muscat of Alexandria,
West’s St. Peters, Willmot’s Hamburgh,
Prince Albert, yrian,
Reine de Nice, Flame-colored Tokay.

BEST FIVE.
Black Hamburgh, Muscat of Alexandria,
West’s St. Peters, White Lisbon.
Reine de Nice,

POT CULTURE.
BEST FIVE.
Black Hamburgh, White Frontignan
Chasselas Fontainebleau, § Black Prince.

Grizzly Frontignan,

Where profit and quality combined are the objects
‘a view, Black Hamburgh and Chasselas Fontainebleau in
the Cold Grapery, and Muscat of Alexandria added in
the Forcing House, will take peoccdaane: and we may
here remark, that whatever care may be taken in impreg-

nating the Muscats, where artificial heat is not used. the

: ns tend piven ea egestas
———- ee Th

ald THE GRAPE.

whole class requires more heat and a drier atmosphere
than is necessary for any other sort; they ficurish best
in countries which are often tov arid and hot for the sue-
cessful cultivation of grapes generally. In southern Spain
and the warm and dry climates of Lima, and similar locali
ties on the western coast of South America, they luxuriate
widiout much care or attention, and produce s.1ost abun
dant crops of the finest fruit. Under cultivation, a dry
a ete during the period of rest, and like wise at the
e blossoms setting for fruit, is almost indispen-
sably rest lacking this in the first place, tLe embryo
flowers do not receive sufficient ecncentration, and a defi
ciency of the same in the latter instance when they ex-
pand, they have not power enough to impregnate-healthily.
By antificially fertilizing with other varieties, or even by
their own cot popes this _—— —_—— is were as-
sisted. W and
fire Keats is not tole cots wit may be made up by
planting an extra quantity of Frontignans and Chesselas
Musqué, which is of the same class, and one of the finest
quality—quite equal in this respect to the Muscats. Al)
of these have the good property of hanging long after
_ being ripe, also early varieties. The Chasselas
Musqué is faulty from its liability to crack when swelling
for ripening, but a free ventilation at the time, and a drier
atmosphere, will considerably counteract this eyil, and
when once ripe, it will continue good for a long time.
oe give a long list of native grapes would be anly

LIST OF VARIETIES. 115

to be reported. ‘Two of the best we have at as are
Isabella and Catawba, both of which are only natural
seedlings; the former from the species Tabrusca, and
the latter, which is the famous Wine Grape of the West
most likely an accidental cross between Labrusca and
Vulpina. What a wide field is there here for experiment.
{f we have a no further than what nature has
done for us, surely we are only on the first step towarde
that perfection which the energy of the country can ae-

ultimatum; and now we see this necessity, there is no
doubt but ere long we shall haye as great a variety with
good quality for all purposes in the indigenous kinds, as
are at present found in the foreign. This is no over-
stretched notion, and we are confident that it both can and
will be eventually accomplished. The American Pomolo
gical — at their last meeting came to the conclusion
that the only sorts worthy of being considered best were
Isabella, Catawba, and Diana, with a recommendation
for further trial of the Concord.* That meeting contained
the best knowledge throughout the country, and our own
opinion is in strict accordance with their decision; co1.se-
quently it may be better to let this short notice serve for
the present, with the hope that the —_ addenda will
be forthcowing hereafter; and for this reason there is a
chapter in its proper place on the raising of new kinds.
Scuppernong class is found to flourish the best
in the Southern States, the few varieties contained in it
may be added for that region ; but these; like all the rest,
are capable of great improvement; and it is very likely
that if the best varieties of California and southern Texas
ee en 5 oe ee es be obtained.
my sees, Clara and, perhaps, Amma. Saaoeaeae
eee. Secrets

CHAPTER XI.
PRUNING AND TRAINING

‘THERE are various methods of pruning ard training the
grupe-vine, and each method has had its supporters. Good

is, the grape-vine is so productive, and fruits so freely,
even with very ordinary treatment, that bad indeed must
pe ease when it ceases to yield its luscious sweets.
Yet while so submissive under ill usage, and grateful, as it
were, for a common existence, like other creatuies of na-
ture’s higher organization, its expansive powers will become
contracted, and the tractable disposition 1endered stubborn,
by long continued abuse ; in which case, the quality of the
fruit is deteriorated, the bunches are small, or the flavor
inferior; and as pruning has something to do with this,
pect the small Lunches, it may be well to explain

the different modes that are practiced, and state the va-
rious results obtained by them.

Although it is best to allow the grape-vine, like all other
fruits, to judiciously and periodically extend the superfi-
cial surface of the leaves and branches, our arrangements
and conveniences do not always admit of this desirable

_ consummation being carried out. Such being the case, it
behooves us, under the opens not to distort nature

PRUNING AND TRAINING. p Y sg

or even fuur feet; next commence at the top, leave three
eyes, the upper one for the future leader, and the twe
others for the top pair of branches; cut out the next two,
leave the two beneath, and continue on so to within
vighteen inches of the soil, below whieh remove all to the
bottom, as there is no use in having any fruit lower down.
During the next summer these eyes will, if well attended
to, form side spurs, which in their turn will have to be eut
back to two, three, or even four buds, as they may be
plump, or well developed. Now, when these buds begin
to grow, we ought to have a shoot from each of them, and
as only one bunch ought to be allowed to remain on each
base, the other shoots will appear so far superfluous. Re-
tain the one at the base, or nearest to the main eane, and
likewise that one above it which shows the best bunch;
rub off the others, and pinch out the fruit from the lower,
and also all, excepting the best formed bunch on the upper
one. As they progress in growth, take out the top of that
which has fruit on, three or four leaves above the buneh,
and let the other extend until it has unfolded seven o1
eight leaves; then stop it. Bring the bearing brancher
down, nearly horizontal, to the upright cane, and tie them
to the side-wires ; train the others at an oblique angle, and
tie them likewise. They will now appear as seen in Fig
16. ais the base shoot, and 4 the fruiting one. As both
eontinue to push forth fresh growth from Fig. 16,
time to time through the summer, nip out Z
to one leaf above where last stopped-
After the fruit is eut, and the wood be-
comes ripe, say two or three weeks before
the leaves fall, go over and eut (4) clean
away to the base of (a), which leaves the
spurs for fruiting the next year as near to
the main cane as if the close cut method

118 THE GRAPE.

had been adopted, with the advantage of having spurs
which have not veen burdened with fruit, and also the
probability of future finer bunches, for the most prominent

largest clusters, and this action gives a better chance of
obtaining such. There is no fear of not being able to get
shoots from the base, if properly managed; for, in most

these side spurs have accumulated, and extend along the
whole length to the top of the house, the leader may be
eut off above the top pair, and if proper care has been

en in bri g the buds, as previously advised, there
will be a uniform strength over the whole vine. If the
canes have been previously dishudded, there is no danger
of over-crowding, as the following year the bearing branch
is brought down to the same position as that of last season,
and the other one trained more upright into the vacant

All trees have a natural tendency to push the strongest

“closely cut away periodically, the sap is directed more
strongly upwards, the lateral force is reduced in a cor-
_ responding ratio, and the side branches are rendered
wake. This is often seen in the grape-vine, and is as
often a cause of complaint. Now, the above method very
much —— this evil, = a m erentee quantity of leaves
are and, of course.
sera of ud rod int so hen

PRUNING AND TRAINING. 119

further encourage this lateral action, it is no: advisable to
take out the overplus buds in the fall, at the same time
that the cane is disbudded, for the simple reason that the
plants are collecting food, and filling up the seemingly
latent parts through the winter, excepting when the whole
structure is frozen, and the channels of absorption thereby
stopped ; consequently, all the buds receive a due share.
Although a portion of this stored up nutriment is wasted.
by allowing the useless buds to expand, we gain the ad
vantage of encouraging a greater flow into the side branches
until the time when the unfolding leaves are enabled to
keep up the action.

Another method of spur-pruning, and the one most gen-

arranged along the cane; each year resting, or not allow-
: to bear, every alternate spur, and when pruning, the
eutting of all the spurs close down to one eye; or leaving
those for fruiting the following season somewhat longer,
and in the next fall eutting the same spur close into the
cane; the object _— to keep the side branches “at
ig. 17 shows the cane when pruned. itis
good crops are ae produced in this way, with rig
otherwise good treatment; but in the first instance
are generally small, and although in
the latter this is for a few years obviated, still there
is the disadvantage of having to cut back to the
main stem, and of trusting entirely to the buds which
may thus be prompted to push forth. This close
cutting weakens down the lateral force of the gga
energy, in a short time the spurs become weak, and
the whole cane has eventually to be cut dows: by
_ which, to say the least of ss —

120 THE GRAPE.

are aware, that in thus speaking of tnis walking-stick
mede of ee we are going in the face of many g:
grape-growers ; but the fact of a thing being generally
Pia katie is no eriterion of its excellence. Nature’s
&ction in all these matters ought to be our guide, and the
m ce we adapt ourselves to her laws, the more permanent
will be our success.

eects the long-rod method is practised. In this
case, the first summer the cane is trained up as in the
former stom seit left somewhat longer when pruned,
and this suffered to bear a full crop the next season; after
which it is cut clean out to one eye from the bottom; an-
other cane having been taken up during the same time
from its base, to afterwards take the place of the one last
fraited, and so on. By this plan, which is seen in Fig. 18,
fine fruit may be obtained, as the bunches ema-
nate from strong buds, which, if they have

some and large clusters; but there is the evil

of eae = ent off, at one fell —— = —
of the pla

excepting a very r lowest stump. This whole-

and oft-repeated cutting keeps the plant

ina 2 ati state of excitement, which is sure

to eventually show itself in premature weak-

ness. It is sometimes useful to resort to this : plan, where

iittle further each season, and taking upright canes from
: these main branches, at the distance of two feet apart ; in
of “ce arene eh br Coa ec
ye after be up the next
_" i in its turn, a shown in Fig 19. As the

PiUNING AND TRAINING. 12)

borizont:1 shoots elongate, the Fig. 18
vines which are right and left
of them may be taken out.

We may also make an ex-
evption in favor of the last
mentioned, with regard to vine-
yard culture, for it is the best
of all others for the purpose.
on account of the facility with which the canes can be tied
to the supports, and the permanently less quantity of
plants that it is necessary to congregate on a given space.
And here we have evidence to prove the above mentioned
assertions respecting the shortening of vitality; for a
plantation trained on the single cane short-cut plan, and

made every three or four years. Now, as this can be pre-
vented with so little expense or trouble, and there is a
more than counterbalancing advantage arising from the
system, it is well, in this particular instance, to follow
what best answers the purpose in view.
The renewal method is adopted by some, which is as
— The one year old cane is cut back to about half
the length of the rafter, and allowed to bear the next
season ; while fruiting, the top growth is conducted per-
pondselgale: and at the proper time is prured off at the
top of the house ; during the same summer, another cane
is taken up from the bottom, and on one side, which is cut
back one-half as the other one was tae previous year.
The next seasun, this new cane is allow od ta fruit, and alse
the upper part of the first one, the side spurs on the
ving been cut out. TLus, there is a full
ies ele ook balk is on twe separate canes, The
€ ee

122 THE GRAPE.

youngest one is now suffered to grow, and is in its turn
cut off at the top, another brought up from the bottom.
and the oldest cut clear out. Fig. 20 represents the three
Fig 20. separate canes in their respective
stages. Here we have the fruit always
borne on young and vigorous wood,
which generally produces the finest
fruit; no spurring is required, and
there is the advantage of a large bulk
of leaves and branches, the former of
which affords nourishment; and pro-
motes the maturity of the roots; but
the tops require somewhat more side
room, and the vines ought to be planted
a little further apart than is necessary
where spurring is resorted to. Where
avine is allotted only a certain space, this is one of the
best methods of training, but it is unsightly, and if the
same advantages can be gained otherwise, and at the same
time beauty in appearance, it is certainly desirable to in-
sure both. Now the first described mode accomplishes
this object in the grapery a also retains a larger amount
__ of solid structure in the form of a strong permanent stem,
_ through which can flow an ample supply of sap to the
leaves, and receive back the food, elaborated by them,
_ down to the roots in a healthy way, and without any un-
_ due excitement to the whole organization.
~ But the best of all plans, and also the most ‘sine is,
head

: one vine may cover a large surface. Nature works by
@rtain fixed iaws which man cannot alter, and any long
Seseved attompe to force her to: swerve from ber ows

stsnot be denied, that mach sucess ie obtained a

PRUNING AND TRAINING. 123

modes of cultivation which would appear to speak to the
centrarypbut observe the ultimate results patiently, with
eare and without sae and all these abuses will tell
their own woful t
One of the causes why the grape vine so soon wears
out, as it is generally considered to do, is produced by
such close pruning as we yearly subject it to—the volume
of the plants is increased for three or four years at first,
and afterwards only allowed the same extent of surface.
There is no other fruit-bearing plant that would continue
to prosper long with this treatment ; take for example a
peach or an apple, allow either the one or the other to
produce a long straight stem of twelve or fifteen feet, and
cut in the side branches to an eye, never suffering it any
further extension but what is produced in the summer—
again to be cut out—and it sate after a few years’ constant
excitement, dwindle down to a mere stump, and finally die
If the grape-vine does not show the same so readily,
it is only because of its extremely tenacious constitutional
powers, for the same law governs both, and both alike
ust sooner or later arrive at the same imbecile condition
As a vine, if extended over a great space, would only
admit of a limited number being grown, it becomes neces-
sary to explain how this may be accomplished ; and like-
wise how, during the interval, the usual crop may be
secured. In planting, place in the centre of the intended
row a vine of known gooa qualities; at intervals of about
twelve feet plant others of salt sity and fill up the
vacancies with sorts as fancy may dictate, so that each
one may stand about three feet apart from the next.
During ‘the first two seasons train all up as usual; so far
we have elongated the surface upwards, and the canes
sap ont task ioime Bieler

124 THE GRAPE.

in the house. or on the whole length in the vineyard, eut
these in to about three eyes. Bear each other,vine the
next year as heavy as it is thought advisable, so as to
secure the fruit ripening and coloring well ; ease the others
in like proportion, which will give vigor and assist them
afterwards. When the fruit is cut on those vines which
have borne the heaviest crop take them out, and when
pruning the others leave the side branches about a foot
long, which will fill up the vacant spaces. Next year
train these branches horizontally, and in the fall ae
spur them as advised above, with the upright cane,

the same time leave another length on the end of a
As these side branches continue to be lengthened and fill
up more space, bear these vines on each side of them some-
what heavier, and afterwards take them out. In the course
of a few ycars each vine will appear as seen in Fig. 21.

Fig. 21.

_ By this system it will readily be seen that few varieties
ean be grown in a limited space, but quality always gives
tle most permanent satisfaction, and where variety is
= it may be had in the first instance and quality
erwards, if care is taken in planting good sorts
in the fe places at the commencement.
- mae be thought Seeere eens be so few vines

PRUNING AND TRAINING. 126

are not able tu carry a full crop in a given space; nevet
fear that, for if the: * is a surtace of well-ripened
weod, the rosts i judiciously
secumulated, the quantity of fruit faa be gradually in-
ereased until a ton weight may be taken from off a single
vine, and that without injury, as is proved by some which
in existence, and are known to be over two hun-
dred years old, among which may be mentioned the
amburgh at Hampton Court, near London, that has
frequently borne the above weight in a season. Show
me an instance where the same longevity and contend
fruitfulness has been gained by the ordinary walking
stick confining to one cane or short-cut method, and then
I will believe that nature can alter her course, and that
man’s simple ideas can control the wonderful action of his
Con's inpraiera temas

it the right and under

proper ‘cireametances, is beneficial has! been clearly demon-
strated ; we know that it tends to give vigorous and
esky growth; both theory and practice tell us so. By
it we gain a stronger propelling power from the roots,
without reducing their volume, or enfeebling their energy.
But to cut annually, se free growing a plant as the graje-
vine to a mere siump, is, =< say the least of it, a barbarous
mutilation of God s providence, and is sure to end in prenia-
ture weakness, sappy ae papery leaves, spindling il-ripen-
ed wood, and barrenness. By this method, last deseribed,
the roots have ample space to luxuriate in ; one vine would
eventually occupy and fill a whole eet, which usually
has to accommodate a great number, and as the
— expansion, according to the requirements

dieiicta sees is gained. An & watier of prott tie the
most beneficial, eal mage nie Spnsoemitiad) 50

126 THE GRAPE.

a house or even a vineyard will continue to yield a good .
crop for two or three generations, than when the planting,

fresh borders, &e., has to be renewed every ten,
or at most fifteen years.

In making these remarks we would not wish to be
severe, for there are many persons so situated by pe-
euliar circumstances as to prevent them from carrying
out the most natural or best methods of culture, even
though they may be aware of the error of their present
practice, yet there are others who have popular and prac-
tical prejudices to overcome, before they will be enabled

this free country at least, where the mutual and physical
industry of man is unfettered, and where we may become
a pattern to the world, in good culture, if not in artificial

grandeur.
We cannot let the SS part of the subject pass by
without a few remarks on summer pruning, and as it may

be thought that this is cates repetition of former words,
we plead the importance of the matter for the introduc-
tion. It has often been advised, and that, too, by some of

— conscientiously believe such | @ system to be judi- :

Ak;

Sy ni mth ner ihn there :
sideration; but this d

PRUNING AND TRAINING. 127

discussion, neither does it prove that it is the ultimatum
of perfection. If we pursue the investigation of this mat-
ter in a physiological manner, we are led to understand
that all summer pruning tends to aoe the vigor, and
cripple the aged of all plants; and practical experience,

combined with observation, proves the fact. Arguing
from this a. we may be accused of advocating no sum-
mer pruning at all, to which we say,~ not guilty.” If
the greatest extension of branches and corresponding
roots, or bulk of timber were the object, then the less
pruning the better, but the present position is a consider-
ation of circumstances and adaptability, independent, to a
certain extent, of nature’s action; the object being to
coax her to accommodate herself to our conveniences ; and
as the grape vine is one of the most easily trained of her
family we have, in this case, a partial control. We ought
then, to consider what we are doing, and how far we are
acting in unison with what are known to be established
laws, and to infringe too far upon these is sure to produce
evil. This or that man’s dogmatieal opinion must cer-
tainly fail unless it be based upon this indisputable cer-
tainty,—where is the use of following this-should-be,
or that ought-to-be, unless somewhat in accordance with
these natural demands. Yet we find a prolific and luxu-

riant plant, such as the grape-vine is, stubbed in, cut

‘elose,and sheared like a convict,—we were near saying
shaved too, for the pinching back to one eye above the
_ fruit is nearly tantamount to that close operation. The

reason given for this _hnesineommes is, thatthe fiuit,

and also the plant, i is strengthened by it. How bina!

a tn oe aon if lemons :
S : Rabe e ae)

128 THE GRAPE.

the consequence; but as to truly healthful action, it is
Ra that we should be none the gainers. Perhaps
this kind of eee may be thought a very vulgar way
of explaining what might be shown in more ‘ddlicatas
words; but if coarse, the true meaning is purposely exhi-
bited, to show up the ridiculousness of curtailing nature.
As stated above, the subject is a matter of circumstances,
we have to do with a family of plants that would occupy
a great volume of surface, yet we wish to have a large
“aaa comparatively _— in a small space, and the
can do is, not to weaken down natural energy
more ae there is occasion for. Pruning, properly per-
formed, and in the right season, is certainly of great ser-
vice; we find it so practically, its good effects are every-
tas to be seen when it is adopted; but so far and
no further is it advisable. If proof be required of the
injury that may be done by too close stoppixg, let any
one try the experiment of pinching in closely the side
shoots of a part of his vines, and leave the others several
joints longer, and he will find at the end of the growing
season that those which were left the longest are better
ripened than the shorter ones, providing the light has had
equal influence on both. If the vines are er
apart than three feet, the distance will allow a shoot on
each side of fifteen to eighteen inches, upon which there
may be from seven to e'ght leaves; and allowing the
fruit to be on the second or third joint, there will still
remain four or five leaves above it, each of which will do

PRUNING AND TRAINING. 129

aged. As stated elsewhere, the grape vine is a plant of
great longevity ; notwithstanding which, with the prac-
tice of some vignercns, it is considered to be worn out in
a few years, and fresh plantations have to be made —
ically. This may in vineyard culture answer the particu-
"Yar purposes of the cultivator, and by the method of ae
allowing a few feet of bearing surface to each individual,
a great amount of fruit, and suitable quality for his pur-
pose, may be obtained from a limited extent of land em-
ployed. Here is evidence that too much cu-tailing of
the plant’s natural disposition shortens life, am weakens
down the constitution to such an extent as to make it
worthless, comparatively speaking, in a very short time.
Considering that there is not avery great expense in
replanting a ccna: the means may be said to justify
the end, but when we come to the catia incurred in

erecting glass houses, preparing borders, &c., it behooves
us to think well how we can pay back a permanent inte
rest on the capital invested, and if there be any method
that will keep a house of vines in healthy bearing for a
long time without the requirement of renewal, surely it
must be wisdom to adoptit. If the grape vine is a long
liver when allowed to extend, and soon worn out if kept

leaves, in order the better to concentrate and store up the
food for future development, and add each year a fresh
layer of well organized alburnum to the previously exist-
ingsound vascular tissue? If we take further into account
the glntted preparations that are often compounded for

se ee “gence and the ———— immense encourage- —

ee , An aR
Tine ck cnn cating Ian eer

6* ‘

130 THE GRAPE.

does not either kill, or cause disease in less time than is
the case, and it is just possible that the present ravages of
mildew in Europe have been accelerated by this cause
Such are the writer’sideas upon the subject, and as the
present object is to enlighten the learner, they are submit-
ted to approval or censure, as each practical and suc-
zessful cultivator may think fit, with the conscientious
belief that such is more becoming the present age of pro
gress, and if followed up Sond & be the means of prolong:
ing the healthfulness and fruitfulness of the grape-vine.

CHAPTER XII.

PROPAGATION AND THE RAISING OF
NEW KI

Tue grape-vine may be propagated from Eyes, Cut
tings, _ Seed, and by Grafting,

Eyes.—An Eye is a short portion of a branch having
only one bud, Fig. 22. This method is most commonly
made use of for increasing the exotic varieties, and is
equally applicable to the natives; it is the best for all
purposes, where there is the convenience of a agg frame

ripened yearling branches, and cut into

as many pieces as there are buds, so
that one remain to each portion; reduce the woed above
and below, by a slanting cut, diverging from the bud on
both ends; have in readiness as many pots, propagating
pans, or shallow boxes with holes in the bottom, as may
he needed, throw in an inch or two of small lumps of
shareoal or broken ecrocks; over this, place a layer of
moss, and fill up with soil, of loose but moderately fertile

oe keep the earth moist, but not too wet, as the young oung shoots oe
: — ee ees

132 THE GRAPE.

.
dampness. For the same reason, if a hot-bed be used,
great care should be taken that there is no accumulation
of rank steam, or condensed moisture. In five or sia
weeks they will have elongated an inch or two above the
soil, when they may be potted off singly into half-pint
pots, and still retained in the same or a similar situation
When they have grown some five or six inches more, these
pots will be filled with roots, and the plants may be trans-

_ferred into those of quart size, which will be sufficient for
the season, if only stocky plants for future planting be
required, but when the intention is to make strong plants
for fruiting next year in pots, it wlll be requisite to re-
move from time to time, according as they progress, into
gallons and two gallons. The shoots will also need to be
tied to stakes as they continue to grow. If healthy stock
is wanted it will be necessary to place the plants, during
the summer, in the same growing temperature as is recom-
mended for fruiting vines, and by care and encouragement
these young canes may be extended to twelve or fifteen
feet long; it is however desirable that the tops should be
nipped out at the height of about six feet, which will pre-
vent crowding, and allow the light to act more freely on
the lower leaves, which in their turn mature the buds on
each axil. As stated above, this strong growth is not neces-
gary, unless for pot culture; for a small well-ripened vine,
with plenty of healthy roots, is quite as good for perma
nent planting, and with after he management wil] wake
headway equal to a stronger on

Cuttings —A cutting as generally understood is a length
of the last season’s cane containing several buds, Fig. 23.
‘To propagate by this plan proceed as follows: So soon as

_ the ground is in good working order after the breaking up

of winter, dig, and break up well with the spade, asufficient

” for the Ah Ree ESeROm string a Ine across one

FROPAGATION AND RAISING. 133

end, cut a trench about six inches deep, prepare the cut-
tings as shown above, and place each six inches apart
against the bank so formed ; leave one or two eyes
above ground, press the soil tight to them, and
afterwards level with the spade; eighteen inches
from this row open another trench, and so proceed
until all is done. If the season should prove dry
before the roots have got sufficient hold, it is ad-
visable to use water; and if such be required do
not dribble, but give enough to soak down, that the
earth may be moistened below. One application i in

Fig 23

without any benefit. This method is the most economical,
and all things considered, it is the Lest for the hardy
kinds, for which alone it is suitable.

Another mode of increase by cuttings, technically
termed coiling is to take a length of cane, say from three
to four feet fong, and coil the lower part around on the
inside of a large pot, which is afterwards filled up with
earth (such as is recommended fo
fruiting in pot culture), leaving a few
eyes above the top, Fig. 24. This is
of service only when strong and vigor-

Fig. 24.

there are any long prunings to spare,
it is the best method that can be
adopted, ao it is only in such cases
that it is

ener are eg of the plant
bent down, a part of each being covered with ea:th wl ile
_ the base remains attached, Fig. 25. These layers throw
out roots and may ke afte:wards cut off from sed mother

134 TUE GRAPE.

plant. ‘The most common process is to merely cover with
soil, leaving the ends protruding, any time from the fall
of the leaf until the rise of the sap, but as there is a
“best” in all things, so in this, and we may as well show
it. Early in the summer, when the young growth has

Fig. 25,

attained to the length of six or eight inches, bring down
the branch intended to be laid, cover the whole length to
the depth of three inches, and peg it down, leaving the
tops that were the previous laterals above the soil; during
the summer roots will be emitted at every joint, and of
eourse there will be as many plants as there are shoots
same operation may be performed any time up to the
middle of July, but if sooner done, a better stock of good
well-rooted plants will be the result. It sometimes so
happens, that an increase is wanted from some favorite or

i : . Fig. 26

_ more of the side branches may be drawn
ue through the bottom of a flower-pot, the
. hele of which has been made

PROPAGATION AND PAISING. 136

inside so as to sever the bark, but nc deeper, w

oe the emission of roots: the pot may be then filled

h earth, and suspended in a very convenient posi-
tion, aa if kept moist will soon be filled with roots; after
which it may be cut away and treated as other stock.
Fig. 26 is an example of this kind of layering.

Grafting can be only considered as just coming within
the scope of propagation, the object being not so much to
increase the number of plants, as the changing or one
kind on to the root or stock of another. It is generally
adopted to obtain a superior or more favorite variety than
the one that is occupying some particular spot, and
been recommended as capable of increasing the hardi-
ness of the future plant, providing that the stock is of
that nature; the theory being, that a hardy sort imparts
a portion of its character to the new parts. There is
no doubt some advantage gained by the process, but
it must not be put down for certain that a native root
will so far alter the constitution of the exotic as to
make it prosper out of doors under all circumstances,
and in all situations where the former would thrive, all
that will or can be gained is the greater hardihood of the
roots, which may in some cases give a more steady or un-
interrupted flow to the branches, and consequently a better
chance of resisting that bane to the exotic ~~. the
excessive climatic changes. It is a method that is of
service excepting for he above reasons, as sie and
healthy plants will answer a better purpose generally.

As the grape-vine is ilgee to “bleed,” if cut early in
the season, and dees not do so after the leaves are ex
panded, it is — to defer the operation until growth
has somewhat progressed ; ng rena eh Seger ee
certainty of success. And as the same heat that excites

the stock into activit:: will =. start the exeeoras ¢ seicns 2

136 THE GRafk.

it is requisite to keep the latter in a cool but damp place
Where there is an ice-house, they may be laid on the
inside upon the covering, or, in want of that convenience,
they shouid be buried beneath the soil, in as cool a place
as can be found. There is no occasion to enter into a sci-
entific disquisition on grafting, or to explain the various
methods of doing it; our object is gained in this case, if
the best be illustrated. Cleft grafting is, perhaps, the most
suitable, while it is also the most simple, and is as follows:
When the shoots have grown some eight or ten inches, cut
off the head close to the ground, smooth over the top, and
with a knife or sharp chisel cleave down the stem about
two inches, put in a wedge to keep it open for the time
being, and cut the graft to fit, making a notch where it
rests upon the stock, to keep it firm; if two be fixed in
the same way, only each on opposite sides, there will be
a double chance of certainty, when, if both take, the
weakest may be cut out. Care must be used in fixing the
graft, that the bark unites with that of the stock, for on
this nice point all success depends. ‘Take out the wedge,
and wrap around with soft woollen yarn, or bast-mat;
cover over the top of the stock, and to a little below the
graft, with grafting-wax, or moistened clay; afterwards
heap over the whole a portion of soil, so as to form a small
mound, leaving the top of the graft uncovered. Fig. 27
Fig. 21. shows (a) the scion, (4) the stock,
and (c) both, after the operation.

way, termed Side-Graft
ing (fig. 28), is to cut in a slant

at hac of th aly on side ; he ng

PROPAGATION AND RAISING. 137

&c,, is the same as in the former case. This is somtimes
useful when it is desirable to preserve the head.and gig 9,
perhaps the fruit on it, for the season; but t ?
a part does not often st strong
during the time, and, on the whole, there is nu ad- |
Sig ai gained.
ching is sometimes practised (fig. 29), which is
simply the uniting of two branches that are each
attached to neighboring plants. Where it is intended
the union is to be made, the bark, and also a thin
slice of the wood (in thickness according to the size
of the intended new sort) must be cut away so that the
bark on both sides will unite; the two are then brought
guar tied, &c., as in the former cases
rattii There is no advantage in this
i excepting that it may be performed
any time during the summer. It is, how-
ever, best to do it immediately after the
ful

Fig. 29.

better insures a perfect adhesion. When
it is is thought that the union is complete,

may be cut half through, and left so
while attached to its own parent. In another week, or
ten days, it may be entirely severed, and again left a sim-
ilar length of time, when the head of the dishonored kind
may be eut away, and the new one allowed to take its
place. Without these latter precautions, there is great
danger of failure, as the sap may not have begun to flow
freely into the new parts. It should also be observed.
that in all the examples, when it is seen that the ligatures
eek increase of growth, they

138 THE GRAPE.

should be loosened a trifle, and in a week or two after
wards they may be removed entirely.

Seed—The preparation for seed, and the after manage-
ment, may be exactly the same as for eyes; so there is
no occasion to give any directions on this head, furtber
than by s.ating that it should not be buried deeper than
hal“ an inch. If there is not the convenience of a hot-bed
or hot-house, the hardy kinds may be sown in the begin-
ning of April, in a cold frame, or, where there is no glass
accommodation at all, they may be made, with care, to
vegetate in the open ground, but not with the same cer-
tainty.

The Raising of New Kinds——New or different varieties
of any plant are generally raised from seed ; in fact, it
may be said that all permanent ones are so. It occasion
ally, though very rarely, so happens, that a plant will pro-
duce a sport in some particular branch, which, if budded

Beech, are examples of this kind; but such sports are not
always to be depended on, as they are apt to again pro-
duce offshoots like the original parent ; consequently we
_ eannot say that they are really permanent, — the
return backwards only oceasionally oceurs; still it
ae, and pemeetanes | is the case.
BY nay ee E hange,

ery rarely

_ either in the original plant, or or buds or branches which
may be taken from it or from them in after years. Not.

PROPAGATION AND RAISING. 139

that, when once the apparent fixedness of natural distinct-
ive characters is broken, either by accidental or

hybridization, there is no end to the variety that may be
produced. So prolific has this variation been in the exotic
kinds, some European catalogues enumerate several
hundred sorts; and although many of these are merely
duplicates of others, there are still left enough to prove
the case. In our country the same is being verified by
the many new kinds which are at present being intro-
duced to public notice, and as the community become
more awake to the improvement that may be made, we
shall have a long array of names, containing in the aggre-
gate all sorts, from fine and good,down to middling and
bad ; and, i in connection with this, we may look es to

attaining to the same perfection which the exoties at
present with the additional property of a hardy
constitution, that will prosper in the open air, without the
great drawback of mildew, to which the foreign kinds are
so subject, and which consequently renders them worth-
«ess for out-door culture, with very few exceptions. So
smportant is this matter as a national profit, that the sub-
ject be forwarded or discussed too much. Our

tinues much longer, the making of wine, and the cultiva-
tion of the grape, will be so much curtailed there, that it
is not unlikely we may become a large exporting nation
in this commodity Taking this view of the sulject, all
those who may be attempting to aeoseie this valuable
ea us ee wei

ee ——~ >

140 THE GRAPE.

Physiological theory teaches, and practical experience
proves to us, that the progeny of a plant, the flowers of
which have been fertilized by another, is more likely to
retain the constitution and habit of the maternal side,
while any peculiarities as to flower and fruits of the father
are introduced into the same body: consequently, the
native kind should be fertilined by the pollen of the exotic,
when a hardy vine would most probably be the _—
with an approach to the fruit of the fereign sort.
cided is this fact, that the operator may predict ps 98

closely what the result will be; and it is as sure as a
demonstrated fact, that we can caece, by care and per-
severance, by this course, a tribe of grapes suitable for
every purpose of the vigneron, sie also satisfactory to the
palate of the most fastidious epicur:

For producing a fine table jie perhaps no better
varieties can be chosen than Isabella, or Concord, fertilized
with Black Hamburgh, for a black; and Diana, crossed

F; or Museats, for the natives have already too
much of the musky flavor, and by introducing the sweet-
ness of the Hamburgh and Chasselas, we shall be most
_ likely to produce a Muscat flavor, with the size or beauty
of berry, and form of bunch of the two paternal kinds.
Beside the production of a fine class of grapes for dessert,
this is likely to lead to a quality most suitable for the
sweeter and miid-tasted wines; but for those of roughe1
and fuller fiavor, the probability i — that the Frontignans
a would answer the purpose better. ‘This is, however, —
De conjettare:, and must be left to im fe for proof. T

PROPAGATION AND RA.SLNG. 14)

upon should be in robust health, neither having at any
time shown symptoms of mildew, and the flowers of both
sciected from fine and well-formed bunches. The opera-
tion of fertilizing is also a delicate one, and there is some
diffienlty in getting the two sorts to bloom at the same
time - for the exotic will, almost without exception, have
+o be under glass; and the native, on account of producing
Lardiness, should be planted outside. A temporary glass
frame to forward the latter would be of service, and the
former might be retarded by excluding the light until the
buds burst, and keeping the head down in a cold house
The most convenient and certain way is to treat one or
more plants of the native kinds as advised for pot cultue,
and, when the plants are strong enough, to introduce them
into a Cold Grapery early in the season, so as to have
them in blossom as near as possible to the time of the
others which are in the same apartment ; and if pen
be paid to the applying of liquid manure, there
_ need be any doubt of the fruit lacking pela te:
When the hardy sort begins to open its flowers, the sta-
mens should be immediately cut out, and the stigma fer-
tilized by the pollen from the anthers of the exotic; indeed
it is necessary, if the greatest surety is intended, that the
corolla (which fits like a little cap over the parts, and rolls

‘natural liberation, for the anthers generally burst just pre-
vious to being exposed; and as they encircle the stigma.
and are immediately over it, impregnation may have then
taken place, which will most likely frustrate all hopes; fr
any hermaphrodite plant, previding all the sexual organe
are perfect, will be more readily fertilized by its own than
another’s pollen. While the mother plant is in bloom, care
maat be taken to keep off iasects. This may be done, by

142 THE GRAPE.

tying a fine nct-work bag over the bunch, and, if there be
a suitable place on the premises for its healthy action, the
vine ought to be remuved away from any other plant or

e same family which may be in bloom at the same time
for the pollen is a very subtle substance, and a proximity
to others might destroy all success.

Independent of this cross-breeding with the exotics, which
may, in the fruit, sooner bring about the desired result, we
may arrive at the same point of excellence with our own
natives by a little patience and perseverance, without any
danger of injuring the constitutional habits of the progeny ;
consequently this course is the best to pursue, and will ult
mately give the most desired results,

CHAPTER XIIi
DISEASES.

Mitpew.—Nearly all attempts to cultivate the exotic
grape-vine in the open air, in the United States, have
ended in total failure and disappointment. In a few soli-
tary instances, and under peculiar circumstances, where
the excessive changes have been counteracted by shelter
or otherwise, a partial success has been obtained, but the
climate of the whole eastern and middle parts of the Union,

the time of greatest activity—-when mildew in its various
forms completes the works of destruction. This mildew
is the growth of fungoid vegetation, the seeds of which
are so small in many kinds as to be invisible to the naked
eye. There are two kinds which are most troublesome to
€ grape-vine—one, which we presume to be the Oidium
Tuckeri, that is at EE devastating the vineyards of
Europe; and the other a Botrytis, or some analogous
first indication of the former is shown by

the leaves having brown spots upon them, and which
permeate quite through the tissue. Afterwards, are seen

speedily destroyed, will soon extend to the fruit stalks,

penetrate to the berries by the rhizoma or spawn, and

make them in appearance like a diseased potato in —
(43), 2

144 THE GRAPE.

ing them useless ; the leaves also will fall off after a short
time, and the whole pliant become seriously injured
These white patches are the fructification of the parasite;
when viewed under the microscope, there is exhibited a
multitudinous congregation of little mushroom-looking sub-
atances, and if suddenly jerked, the tiny sporules may be
seen detached, and floating in the atmosphere, so minute
and subtle, and in such countless numbers, that it is not

favorable influences) many are absorbed by the stomata or
breathing pores on the under surface of the leaves, and
conveyed into the interior, simply by the descending
movement of the elaborated sap, oe is afterwards con-
verted into woody-fibre, and in turn becomes the
organized medium by which the poner sap, in the fol-
lowing spring, flows with greater velocity to the unfolding
leaves. ‘The secreted sporules may then be re-conducted
wards, and conveyed onwards to the foilage, and there
remain dormant, until the favorable circumstances occur
for their germination, when they spring into renewed life,
and speedily produce another crop of seeds for a future
generation. This kind of mildew seldom does any mis-
chief after the growth approaches towards ripeness, or the

_ fruit is in the last swell, and as it generally begins to
appear about the early part of July, during damp and
close — those plants which have been more or less
| by artificial heat are almost free from its attacks,
be

wie

of FE exch fifteen or twenty square yards, and
_ withhold water for the time being, k ’
elose, if cloudy, mod seing memes to vise some-

DISEASES. 145

what higher for two or three days. This will cause the
sulphur to throw off fumes, which are readily perceptible
to the smell, and will check the further progress of the
past if present, or prevent its appearance if not so. e
have used all the supposed remedies that we could collect
a knowledge of, by way of experiment, without being
able to diseover anything more than temporary relief,
while the fumes of sulphur, as above recommended, have
never failed to immediately check, and if water be with-
held during the continuance, to finally overcome it. There
need be no ferr of sulphur doing harm to the foliage; so
long as ignition dies ut take pl.ce, it may be used with
confidence. Herein lies the secret. If allowed to burn,
chemical action goes on, and ickaos acid is produced,
which in its then gaseous form will i se destroy all
foliage sor which it comes in con’

The other kind (Botrytis?) cet like a fine and
delicate ay mouldiness, and vegetates along the young
wood and tender growth of the stem, the leaf stalks, over
the surface of the berries, and upper side of the leaves;
enveloping and covering the parts so as to prevent the
further progress of the fruit, cause the leaves to fall, and

the branches to cease growing. It is not, as in the
dete example, confined to late crops, but will attack

early also, and is often most prevalent when
too a ay and cold a temperature has been allowed, more
particularly if a strong moist heat has been previously
kept up; cold drafts will increase the tdaliewey—ienes
great caution is necessary in ventilating, or the
of that atmospheric peculiarity which takes place when
the moisture that is in solution i in the atmosphere becomes _
opest by a sudden transition as a es temperature.

will sh w that th hich at-

146 THE GRAPE.

similiar in structure, if not positively of the same gen.1s—
are most prevalent when a slow steady under current of
dry air is passing in hot weather, which, by exciting to
an extraordinary degree of evaporation, leaves a dam
clamminess upon the surface of all plants by drawing out a
f rtion of their collected juices, which then becomes food
for the sporules to vegetate upon. This may be considered
somewhat similar to the bottom draft in a hot-house—a
very different thing, by the way, to a healthy and free
ventilation overhead, where the air is made to circulate
evenly over the whole cubie bulk, without that continual
stream from small apertures below. In our present case,
moisture combined with heat will counteract the fungus,
and it may he effectually got rid of by syringing with
water, in which a portion of sulphur is mixed; one pound
of the latter will be enough for ten or fifteen gallons of the
former. If the fruit be approaching to maturity, this kind
of application will disfigure it, and the same purpose may
be as effectually gained by dusting a small quantity on
the heating apparatus where it will not ignite; or if a cold

use, by strewing it over the floor in the same quantity
as before advised.

The peculiar cireumstances under which parasitica!
fangoids luxuriate, are wonderfully dependent on the state
of the atmosphere. This is demonstrated, not only by the
different sorts of grape mildew, but in all othe

DISEASES. 147

that the main preventive of mildew is to keep the planta
in a steady and healthy action, not only by supplying a
due proportion of food moisture and heat according to their
constitutional requirements, but by preventing sudden
changes in the atmosphere with which they are sur-
rounded, and particularly avoiding vold drafts in the lower
parts of the house. Heat accelerates the circulation, and
if the whole bulk of the air is uniformly heated, the cireu-
lation will be equal in its action and distribution in every
part of the plant.

In our practice, bottom air is not admitted until the fruit
hegins to change color. Although the above remarks may
not harmonize with the opinions of others, an extensive
experience has convinced us of their correctness.

We have then the whole matter in a “nutshell.”
During the time when the vines are growing freely, keep
up a strong steady heat, avoid damp or cold and

and east winds during cloudy weather or storms;

keep the house closed in such cases
Be careful that the house is — suddenly heated up
when the sun breaks out, afterward regulate the moisture

os ge
eats rah to counteract the efiects of sudden changes
in the atmosphere is the great desideratum. The best of
us may sometimes find our utmest skill tested, but a per-
severance in the course here marked out with elcse
attention will overcome all difficulties, and we will te
amply repaid for all our trouble.
my think that when mildew makes its appearance
sulphur is the only antidote, without anything further than

148 THE GRAPE.

the immediate contact, in all cases, that produces the
remedial effect. The further spread of the Botrytis?
may be arrested on particular spots where the sulphur is
applied, but it will not suffice for the Ozdium, for we have
seen it push through a thick coating atter the ¢ pplication
had been repeated fur several days together and we weuld
more forcibly repeat that the fumes emanatirg from sul-
phur exposed to a high temperature, are the only ra.ical
cure that we have yet discovered.

There are several other sorts of fungi which are seen at
times in the grapery, but which are not any further de-
structive than by extending a mouldiness to the ripe fruit,
or decaying leaves or branches, which may be prevented
by circulating a free current of air through the house, or
if that be not practicable, as sometimes happens with late
crops or the Retarding House, by lighting a slow fire, and
lifting the top ventilators. This will dry up the muisture,
and be beneficial to the vines, by assisting them to ripen
better. These last mentioned fungi may be considered as
epiphytical, for they feed upon a tendency to decay in the

y upon which they vegetate ; while the first and dan-
gerous kinds are strictly parasites, which germinate and
progress upon the living substance, and destroy the or
ganization of all parts in their co

Shrivel and Shank —These two toons may be considered

as one disease, only in a more modified or virulent form.
The difference being, that when a bunch of grapes is said
__ to shank, the whole or a part of it cay off; while in shrirel,

and whieh, if not eut away, soon encircles the whole, the
stop to the circulation, and
; Sa ph

ae

DISEASES. 149

there has not been anything in grape culture that .as ex-
tited more discussion than this disease, and the most
eminent and best cultivators have come to diametrically
opposite conclusions, according as it has shown itself to
their individual observation. In some houses this is thu
greatest bugbear that the grape grower has to encounter;
for after the anxiety of the season appears to be past, and
he is looking with pleasing satisfaction on his success, his
hopes are suddenly blighted by the instantaneous appear-
ance of this pest. His ercp is just arriving at maturity.
the berries are fast coloring, well swelled up, and to al]
appearance safe, when upon close examination, they are
found to have beeome flaccid, the footstalks cf the —_
or a part of the stems of the bunches are turned brown
and withered, in consequence of which the fruit receives
no more nourishment, the carbonizing action is arrested,
and the affected berries remain intensely sour. One

ing that his borders are not well drained, and the roots
paitly rotted, and seeing no other cause, comes, and with
reason, to the conclusion that it is the effect of this, and
in his honest belief heralds his opinion to the world; an
other takes an opposite inference, for his borders are teo
dry ; a third discovers that his house is badly constiucted
as regards the means of ventilation, or that it is situated
too ii, mania a stagnant, or unwholesome damp at-
: a fourth states as positively that the keeping
of the heais led tio late late in the morning, and the sun’s
rays striking directly upon the wet or damp footstalks
produces the disease ; a fifth, that it arises from extremes
of heat between the roots and the tops; a satis that ae
den changes of temperature in the h %

in this way we might go on enumerating opinions a
img the nuisance. It is a common saying that,“when _

doctors disagree, who is to decide ;” a very sensible ques

id0 THE GRAPE.

tion, certainly, in this ease. After careful study—now for

action of the vine at this particular stage will be likely to
produce this disease. If we argue from the analogy
between the animal and vegetable kingdoms, we know
that as immediately before parturition there is a very great
stress upon the constitution, requiring all the strength
with which the animal is endowed to carry through
s action—so with plants. As proof of this, when

instances with such rapidity that the tender skin is not
strong enough to withstand the inward pressure, but
bursts open. It is most likely that the change by chemical
expansion has something to do with this, and if the plant
is not enabled to perform all its functions uninterruptedly,
the stalks of the fruit, which are the conductors of the re-

quired fluids, do nes Dees a bon wmpply of the needful
elements, but y demand that is

made upon them for the time being, for we find them only
affected in this particular manner at the period mentioned.
= this argumect be correct, it will be well, when there is

remedy i it sige Daas without any reference to dogmati-

ccjicauns ot this work, an endeavor has been made

: advies is given with some confidence, and a velief that if
fully carried out the same results will accompany the
——* of others cate ee ice aca

DISEASES. 151

alternative that remains is to cut away the parts injured,
and remove them immediately from the house, and insure
the prevention of any contamination to those which are
e :
Dry Rot in the Roots. The upper indications of =’
are flaccidity, and deficiency of solidity, in-
nied by a sickly yellowish — of the ikea weak
growth of the branches and paucity of fruit ; a prolonged
inerease of the malady will at at cause the vine to die,
and that most commonly about the time when the berries
are half grown. All this arises from the want of nourish-
ment from the roots, which, if examined, will be found to
be rotted, and often covered by a mouldiness or fun
There is no doubt but the primitive cause of this affection
is a check to constitutional vigor; and extremely close
summer pruning has much to do with it, as it prevents
she pes aay. ecualising its penny and ep cri

se].

the vessels, which at last binge 6 on an enfeebled condition.
When a vine becomes affected in this way the best plan
is to take it out, renew the soil in the immediate vicinity,
and afterwards plant another in the same place, for it is
seldom that the diseased one does any more good.

ro

quire to be lifted, and the operation needs great care; so
_ soon as the leaves fall, proceed to uncover them; trace.

152 THE GRAPE

ought to be wrapped in a damp mat or cloth, the border
thoroughly trenched over, and a thin layer of good turfy
loam. put on the top, when the roots may be again spread
over the surface; all the decayed parts cut away with a
sharr knife, and covered by four or five inches of the
same kind of earth that was put under them. Care must
he taken however before winter sets in, that a good layer
of tree leaves, or weak littery dung be spread over, to keep
out the frost. There have keen many examples, when
this has been skilfully attended to, where a stock of vines
have been entirely rejuvenated, that were previously
worthless and thought to be worn out, but which have
afterwards borne gocd crops of fine fruit for many years
It is necessary to give a partial shade in the early part of
the following summer, or until the leaves get pretty wel:
expanded, and it is better not to let them carry much, if
any, fruit during the first year after the operation. Cloudy
or damp weather is the best time for removing, and
the roots should be as little time as possible out of the
and.

Ret in the Fruit—This has of late years caused con-
siderable loss in the cultivation of vineyards. It generally
shows itself at the time when the fruit begins to “ stone,”

_ after continued wet weather, followed by bright sunshine,
_ when the berries becume discolored and fall off. All the
_ symptoms of this disease go to prove that it is the result
_ of the plants imbibing too much moisture at the time when
nature could better do with a reduction of it, for the grape-
vine at this stage of growth would he considerably bene-
fited if no rain were to fall during the after part of the |
season. Seeing this to be the ease, we onght, so far as

~~.

mstances will allow, to try and remedy the evil by

DISEASES. 153

or efficient drainage ; thorough and deep trenching or sub-
soil plowing, and not over-close 2 so that the air
may pass freely between and among the piants, in order
e better to drive off all ial: atmospheric
moisture, and also enable the plants to exhale the over-
ylus fluids with which, at such times, they are surcharged
For the same reason, where the vines are trained over
arbors, or on trellises, the branci:es ought not to be too
elose, or the summer growth to become crowded. This
object is not to be gained, however, by plucking off the
leaves as some persons very ignerant)y do, but by atten-
tive disbudding of all those shocts that will not be actually
= in the early part of the season, or so soon as it
n be plainly seen which branches will produce the finest
ae and by laying them in, at p uning time, sufficiently
distant—eighteen inches is near enough. In the grapery
we are not much troubled by th’s nuisance, except in
damp, ill-ventilated, or badly-g glazel houses, which is an-
other proof that the cause is an excess of mcisture, for it
is a common practice, when the f.uit begins to color, to
use very little or no water in any form, consequertly at
the critical period the grapes are in a drier atmosphere
t sorbing foliage is revel from inhaling any
more moisture than is necessary to suppport health.
the vines are planted and re fruit is found to be
ate to the affection, it will be well to drain deeply
between the rows in the fall, and when the ground is
forked over to apply a good dressing of fresh powdered
lime ; indeed a very confident opinion will not be much
hazarded by stating, that a well drained calcareous soil, in
an airy but not exposed situation, would be sure to give
= nearly, if not quite free from rot.
- wih the preceding dione, eyetieces a different t thing

i> THE GRAPE,

it is wot so injurious, as the berries only become marked
by a black spot on surface, (but which penetrates
through the skin), and remains on the vine to ripen; the
quality, ee: is Foosball deteriorated, for it con-
tm ies to be a “ spot” to the last, and gives a bitter taste
to the flavor, not only tor table use, but also to the wine
which may be made from the affected fruit. After some
years of careful watching for the cause of this, we are led
to the conclusion that it is produced by the direct striking
of the heat of a midsummer sun immediately upon the
oerries, after heavy rain, the individual drops of which
fall with great force, and knock clear off a spot of the
*bloom”’ or farina that the berries are covered with, anu
which, no doubt, is a protection against its intensity,
thereby leaving the tender cuticle exposed, and subject to
he more readily acted upon, just the same as the concen-
trated focus of a burning glass, on a previously covered
and delicate skin would be, if it were to be acted upon in
the same way. With this paralizing action upon the par-
ticular parts, they are more easily attacked by a fungus,

are several trifling
subject, whic may not be considered as disease, that may
be some of the causes — mentioned,
but which ie carefully observed may be remedied in time,
: without permanent injury; aioe connection with this it

may Lek eh Se tu.
to keep up a moist phere syringing, it
is by no means to be inferred that it is intended to water

; overhead in the middle of the day, or yet in the morning
yang doe. SS 2

DISEASES,

as chat of England, there will not be much harm done wes
such a practice; but with our “ bright and sunny skies,

the elongation of the branches, which causes a revulsion
of the sap, and, of course, injury to the whcle body.

CHAPTER XIV.
INSEOTS, AND HOW TO DESTROY THEM

WueEre the treatment deseribed in the foregoing pages
has been adhered to, there will be little trouble with in-
sects in the late grapery, but in early forced houses, with
the most careful watchfulness, they sometimes make their
appearance during the middle and after part of summer;
also in the vineyard and all out-door culture of the grape,
either one kind or other will, at times, commit great rav
ages, or do much mischief if they be not speedily de
stroyed ; and “ prevention is better than cure,” was never
more apripcs than in this case, for if a plant of any kind
is suffered to remain infested with these pests, you may
bid good-bye to health or productiveness. Therefore be
on the look out, and when the enemy shows his advance
guard, rest assured that if not speedily routed, a numer-
ous army will follow. Attack his outposts, carry war

his centre, destroy his flank and rear, and completely
annihilate him, or you will find that he will continue to
give annoyance. Give him no qnarter,for he keeps no
truce, and so long as he has one helpmate of the opposite
_ sex, he will persevere in bringing up his mynads of off
_ spring, which are soon n ready for active operation and
_ renewed destruction.
‘Phe insects which attack our present subject, are’ red
ag can several species of ccecus, as brown tnr-

and white sealy bug, mealy bug, brown and white =

INSECTS. 157

tortoise shell scale, black and green fly, (aphis, ) thrips,
fretters (cycad@,) three or four kinds of beetles, as the
rose bug, cockchafer, &c., and occasionally the caterpil-
lars of some moths.

The red spider is a very small, dark red insect, —
invisible to the naked eye, which locates on the under
side of the leaves; it delights in a dry, hot caaihaes
and if left long unmolested, will spread over the whole
house, spinning a delicate network, among which it
travels with the greatest facility, feeding upon, poisoning,
and disfiguring the plant. It may be _— by syring-
ing and a damp air, and can be comp letely eradicated
by the use of sulphur, used as advised Pa mildew. Inde

g

tronble is, to sprinkle a smail quantity over the hot water
pipes, or coolest end of the flues, three or four times during
the season. If proper use be made of the syringe, the
sulphur will not always be required, but when applied it
answers the double purpose of preventing the spread of
both red spider and mildew.

The different species of scaly and mealy bugs may be

generally adhere to the bark, and the brown ones are
often so near the color of it as to require a close look to
see them; here they stick, sucking the juices, and ejecting
their sugary exerescence, which spreads over the leaves,
and stops up the breathing pores. The mealy bug is to be
found in the crevices between the bark, in the joints, and
among the bunclies,in the form of little cottony-looking

158 THE GRAPE.

substances, in which case it should be taken out with a
small brush or pointed stick, for if left in its lurking
places, the bunches among which it is located will be
disfigured and too dirty for use. The tortoise-shell scale is
more solitary in habits, and in appearance like a small tor-
toise-shell ; it is to be found in the same places as the
brown scale, lives upon the j — of the vine, and can be
destroyed by the same mea Aphidae, or green and
black fly, are small insects, secoak in movement, having
prominent antenne, a large abdomen, and a long probos-
cis, with which they pierce the cuticle of the tender shoots,
and draw out the sap, which quickly brings decrepitude
into the advancing extremities. They are viviparous and
gregarious, and inerease amazingly fast.

rips are small, active, linear-shaped little insects,
which congregate on and run over the under surface of

are somewhat linear and triangular in form, small, and of
a palish yellow color, and like the last they feed on the
outer covering of the leaves. All the last three varieties
can be destroyed by fumigating with tobacco, but care
eR be used in the operation, so as not to apply too
much while the leaves are young and tender, for in that
state they are soon injured.
The rose bug is a lightish brown little beetle, with a
small head, and long prohescis. In some parts of the

the day-time often in great numbers, and eats the tender
a ee eee

INSECTS. 15y

vals through the day, more particularly early in the morn
ing, for although it may be caught at any time when at
rest upon a plant, it is more sluggish before the heat of the
day commences. Being only the visitor of a period, annu-
ally, a careful watching for three or four weeks is requi-
site at this time, after which it disappears, and is no more
trouble. The ccckchafer beetles are larger, more oval in
form than the foregoing, and of several colors; they attack
the leaves and young shoots through the season, but are
not so destructive. The same process (hand-picking) will
have to be resorted to for their destruction. There are
also several kinds of the larve of humming bird mcths
that occasionally feed upon the young stems, and edges of
the leaves, and which, being so near the color of the parts
they feed upon, and cylindrical in form, are somewhat dif-
ficult to find; consequently when it is seen that injury is
being done, a sharp look-out ought to be practised, and a
quick eye will soon get accustomed to the detection of
these, and any other kind of caterpillars that occasionally
may be annoying And here we may state that the best
advice which can be given in this matter in a general way
is, to remember the cold saying, that a “stitch in time
saves nine;” and if we do not wish to cultivate our de-
structive propensities, by having to destroy an immensity
in number of s links in creation, we ought to have a
benevolent feeling, and recollect that the earliest and first

necessary
ward, each of which, in the true sense of reason, has ag
good a right to live as ourselves.

With regard to the grapery under glass, if the insect
world is “ legion,” and the generations quick in suecession,
they are — down, and nothing but gross negli- _
gence _—— will permit them to “ shead. =

hh

wth, dri
usly over the

d you may generally defy all the host of them.

of gro

paratively small numbers will be

when their com

: s nature have her way, with hi

CHAPTER XV:

THE VINEYARD, AND OUT-DOOR
CULTURE.

So far the grape-vine has been treated of in a general
way, as regards the natural disposition of the various
kinds in cultivation. The practical details also are
more particularly explained for the treatment of the
exotics, but to make a clean breast of our present bnsi-
ness, there is required some more notice of the resi
and out-door cuiture. If we could be satisfied with

stand-still position, the thing might remain as it is, he
almost everybody who has a yard of land thinks of a
grape-vine ; and yet a greater number know how to
, if we are to believe the many metaphysical

iNecsations that often take place. The fact is, that all”
the species and varieties will more or less prosper with
almost any kind of treatment, providing they be in a
suitable climate ; but this does not argue against the
best cultivation, ond there is little fear of contradiction
when the statement is made that skill and care will be as
amply repaid with any or all of the kinds. It matters
not whether for wine or table use, this still holds good,
and the only difference is in what is required. If, for
instance, the produee be intended for wine, it will be
necessary to combine, a: much as possible, those pecu-

liar characteristics which the best samples are found
to possess, and in such case it is not advisable to intro-

duce too much stimulating matter to the roots, but let
p directed towards her own

(161)

162 THE GRAPE.

course, and still furthe: to make use of those varicties that
contain within their original structure more than usual of
those ingredients which are suitable for the purpose. Now
generally, with due maturity, there is enough of the car
bonaceous property, that can, by the plant’s own action
be couverted into sugar, and of course by proper fermenta:
tion a sufficient proportion of the alcoholic principle may
be obtained ; but this does not give the particular nor yet
the varied aroma for which some wines are so prized. Toc
much encouragament to the production of exterior develop-
ment delays the formation of concentrated sugary matter,

seurs delight in. Consequently it is easily seen

moderate growth, with efficient drainage; must be the best,
and that as these peculiar properties are invariably more
highly concentrated under the influence of light and free
air, ample space is essential to vineyard culture. Although
our country is said to be “the land of the vine,” it by no
means follows that we may ~~ with a in a
— under am

fruit; and secondly, there would be uo certainty of it

becoming ripe, from the liability to the rot. On the other
hand, the locality may be in all respects suitable, but yet
te ae ee -
Jured and torn to a Sorcaacce

VINEYARD AND OUT-DOOR CULTURE. 163

some caution should be exercised with regard to those
aspects which lie open to the winds that bring with them
the damp and fogs of summer; consequently, it is objec-
tionable to choose a slope toward the sea. Each tract of
country has its own peculiarities, and an acqaintance with
the neighborhood will enable any observant mind to de-
cide in this particular There is no advantage in following
to the letter the advice of those who, too often, persist in
believing a south-east slope to be imperatively nec —_
men who may have prospered well enough in their own
country and climate, are sometimes wedded to a certain
faith, and have not always sufficient tractability of mind
to alter their practice or adapt it toa difference of circum-
stances. If we consider that along the eastern shores the
damp air which is brought from the ocean almost invariably
brings on a tendency to mildew and rot, it is evident that
i region it would be much better to adopt a spot
which is sheltered by higher ground on the eastern side.
At the same time, a low or moist situation should by all
means be avoided, or one where the air is liable to be
stagnant at times. The next most important item is adry
under base; a rough rubbly gravel subsoil, with a con-
tinued descent below, will generally prove naturally well-
drained, but in all examples to the contrary it ought to be
made so by artificial means.

— = cmc prosperity than a soil strongly
im carbonate of lime, or having limestone
rock ce If any body is sceptical in this, they may
be easily convinced by referring to analysis, or more
simply aa aaenions the incrustation left on the edges of
the leaves after th tion of that
tion, which sometimes takes place in hot aad cloudy

weather, while the sont) of the plant is young. There _

epren eee eS

164 THE GRAPE,

the grape-vine, the oft- disputed fact that these inorganie
substances are really absorbed. Here is a plain secad
that they are, for according to the greater or less amount
of lime in the soil, so will this appearance be manifest. It
is most likely, that if all plants were so situated as to be
enabled tu take up the exact proportions of the varioua
elementary food required by them, most of the diseases to
which they are subject would disappear; and certain
enough it is, that a// would be prevented, if we could con-
trol the elements to suit the different stages of growth,
and adapt the light and heat to all respective constitutions.

In making choice of a piece of land for a vineyard, it
is not always convenient to gain possession of the precise
spot which our intelligence would covet; but if it could
be done, and there are many opportunities where it may
be, we should accept an elevated table-land, lying high

aud dry upon a limestone base, and sereened from the
damp easterly and cold north and north-west winds by a
distant range of hills, which would protect without pro-
ducing a confined atmosphere, and give — _ the
most frigid blasts of a below zero tempera’

We may also take a more PTE view of the
method of planting than is generally practised, and in-
stead of fixing the plants in the position of so many hilis
of corn, and about the same distance apart, when each
stool requires a stake, and the bearing cane has to be
curved over, thereby being only half supported, we would
ecnsider the aspect that might have to be dealt with, the
inclination towards the sun’s rays, and all such matters as

VINEYARD AND OUT-DOOR CULTURE. 163

the viclent and sudden changes of weather for which our
climate is so proverbial. The following explanation will

aps show more clearly what is here meant. After
making choice of a suitable soil and situation, and making
sure that the subsoil is well drained, commence to trench
with the spade, or plough deeply the whole piece. If
the spade be used and the soil shallow, this operation may
he performed as follows: Take out a trench at one side,
three feet wide and one spit deep; wheel or cart this to
the other end, then loosen up the under soil another spit,
break it up well and leave it in the bottom; throw the
next upper crust on the top of this, and so on until all is
finished. Where a large extent is to be cultivated, it would
become too expensive to trench, and the plough will have
to do the work ; in which case, the subsoil plough ought to
follow the top loosening. Where the soil is equally good

be in good heart, and well incorporated with vegetable
matter, but otherwise it is advisable to work in at the
same time, from ten to fifteen tons of decomposed barn-
yard dang to the acre; and if there be a _— of the
alkaline bases, a dressing of lime and wood ashes will
ptove very beneficial. Although the roots of the pe
vine, when established delight in An open turfy soil, a
_ eross ploughing and harro rrowing will be required to pul-
verize, sufficiently, the soil before planting, and give the
yeung fibres a better chanee to lay hold of it at first start
The work, also, ought to be done during the summer or

previous early fall, 80 as to get into good condition by th a
wanted.

time it may be w :
There are many cultivators who think it absolutely
cee ad — a

166 THE GRAPE.

there is no reason why it should be invariably accepted to
the entire exclusion of any other. However, where the
disposition leads that way, and all the above-mentioned
considerations are not to be acquired, it will answer the

rpose, and if the slope be anything like steep, the whole
extent will have to be formed into terraces. This becomes
more or less expensive according to the angle of ascent.
It should also be remembered, that on a hill-side, the cold
air, more particularly in the night, is constantly moving
along the surface, from the top towards the bottom, there-
by preventing that health-producing evaporation of warmt

m the soil which is obtained from the solar heat of the
previous day, and causing, in our extreme climate, a con-
densation of the moisture as it radiates upwards, which is
then carried along towards the lowest level in the form
of a damp and cold draft among the under parts of the
plants; and it does not require a second thought to under-
stand how injurious such a circumstance is in all other
kinds of culture. No doubt many will think that such
notions as these are not worthy of consideration, but as
we are being troubled with rot, mildew, and other hurtful
affections, it is well to guard against all things that are
likely to provoke, or produce the evil, and avoid them
accordingly. Arguing from the culture of the grape-
vine, or any other plant under glass, we know that such
action would bring on these very diseases; and it is not to
inside cultivation alone that we are at all times dependent
for proof, for there now and then happens an example
__ where a plant is trained on two aspects, or the head is in
_ different positions, when one part is quite free from disease,
while the other is badly affected ; and it is just possible
_ that these cold currents of damp air is one of the causes
| dheiedi

*7 ist f So z* 2s
’ a 2 ,it will be requisite

VINEYARD AND°OUT-DOOR CULTURE, 167

to form terraces from the bottom upwards in width
according to the steepness of asceut. If very abrupt, only
one row of vines can be accommodated on each, but with
a more gentle inclination the breadth may be sufficient
for two or even three rows. The front will also require
to he banked up to render the upper surface level, and
there is nothing more suitable for the purpose than thick
turfs of grass-sod, fixed on the edges, inclining from the
perpendicular towards the bank. Generally speaking,
these sods may be cut from the immediate surface, when
a portion of each length to be laid out will furnish enough
material for its own front, and as there is a right and a
wrong in this operation, like most other things, it may be
of service to show the right. When a bank of this charac
ter is made of square sods. as seen in Fig. 30, they are
subject to give wey ae the cng of the first summer,
from the fact of the I holdfast. Fig. 31

Fig. 30. Fig. 31.
shows how this may be obviated, and the trouble or ex-

pense of workmanship is the same in both cases. The
ne to get these latter is, to simply cut down a few inches

ward cut to the same width, with the line placed diagon-
ally to the first cutting; which will give each individual
sod of the right size and form to push together, by merely
reversing the bevelled edge at each rise on the height. oe
The trenching, plowing, manuring, &c., will be the same

_ in this as the before-noticed plan. The =

168 THE GRAPE.

done, is the preparing of supports upon which te train the
vines.

The most common method of planting is, in straight
rows from five to six feet apart, and at right angles with
each other, and to simply have a pole to each vine ; the
method of training being the long rod, explained page
i2¢. ‘This answers the purpose very well and has be-
come the most customary, in part from the introduced
routine of Europe, and in some measure as a consideration
of economy. As to the latter, there may be some saving
to the pocket, but unless there are more than counter-
balancing advantages, there is no use in — old
customs, so long as better ones can be introduced, and in
the present case, an improvement may be pS a
by cheap So which may be made in the following
manner: Prepare a quantity of good strong poles of
locust, chestnut, aks or ash, seven feet six inches; srk
and char these three feet on the lower end and dri
them into the ground two feet six inches, in rows six ras
tae extending east and west, or as near these points as
may be practicable, and the poles nine feet assunder ; next
fix horizontally long narrow strips of wood, or straight
but thin saplings, to the uprights, at a distance of one foot;
this will make a substantial trellis on which to train the
_ vines, and be far superior, with very little more expense
_ than the pole-to-one-vine that is so often made use of. It
is st time for us to adopt a principle of neatness com-

e all

VINEYARD AND OUT-DOOR CULTURE. 169

to the vines by the rusting and their friction against se
hard a material, but practically we do not find it so. Let
the superintendent only attend to his duty without nurs
ing his old prejudices, and see to the proper tying, and
our word for it, there will be no more detriment in wire
than anything else. However, let everybody go along a:
he thinks best, only move onward, and as we are a great,
and daily becoming a greater nation, let us not disappoint
the expectations of the world by our want of originality.

All may now be considered as ready for planting, ae
here again we have many notions to contend with.
tings—one-year old, two-year old, and even hier
old plants, have each been considered as the best, accord-
ing to the whims and fancies of pedantry. The fact is, we
want a healthy start, at the least expense; and as the
plants must have a length of time to become profitable,

what can be more economical, cr insure future success
better, than good o1.e year vines? The more than half part
of this business depends on previous preparation; but, as
this costs money, it is well, at the same time, to be getting
ready the future occupants; consequently it is good advice
to say: raise the plants on one spot, and be preparing on
the main superficial area; or, if it be not convenient te
propagate, adapt all contingencies so as to make sure of
after results.

A young and well-rooted piant will, if properly managed
and a greater growth than a stunted
older one, with the additional ahs of being alike in
all its parts; what is true individually, will be so collect

roots are lifted carefully, and removed to their new quar- _

ters, before they become dried; nothing produces more _

: =e sree Roots”
.

170 THE GRAPE.

ase organized beings, containing fluid matter, and inteudea

to convey most of the nutriment upward to the whole

siperstructure : and if their tender cells become shrivelled,

they are not capable of again performing their offices with
f e

ema

inactive for a length of time, or die immediately. If the
top languishes, a weak start is the consequence, with per-
haps the loss of a whole season.

Tf the trellis be accepted, the rows may be six feet
apart, and the plants four feet asunder; but, in the ordi.
nary way of staking, five feet each way will be the nearest
possible distance. In putting down the roots, dig a hole
six inches deep, and wide enough for them to be spread
out all around ; cover carefully with well puiverized soil ;
cut off the head to two or three good eyes; and, when the
vines begin to start, mulch over, so far as the roots extend,
with rotted barn-yard manure; or, if that cannot be had,
then with any vegetable refuse, that is free from seeds,
that may be at hand.

When the shoots begin to elongate somewhat, it will be
seen which is going to be the strongest, and all the others
may be rubbed off. As this continues to grow, tie it up tu
the stake or trellis, pinch out the laterals (the small side-
shoots which grow at the base of each leaf) to one eye, a8
they are produced, and rub off all superfluous suckers or
branches. Nothing further will be required than to keep
the ground free from weeds, by hoeing, or the plough,

VINEYARD AND OUT-DOOR CULTURE. iZ

dulk of plant than is acquired after the third year 18
practicable A reference to the chapter on pruning will
explain all respecting this part; so there is no use in pur-
suing the subject further, excepting to state that cleanli-
ness is one of the first demands of the vineyard, and is sure
to more than repay for the invested labor.

The training over arbors, around dwellings, and ail
su:h positions, will require the same fundamental culture
that has been explained for the vineyard, the only differ-
ence being in the peculiar desires or fancy of the culti-
vator with regard to the form of the plant. As the grape-
vine is so lavish with its embracing arms, they may be
entwined around or over anything that will give them
support ; the whole plant will continue to delight the eye
with its beauty, and gratify the palate with its luscious
sweets, if kindly treated. Even with worse than careless-
ness, we may enjoy a portion of its liberality ; but, accord-
ing as kindness is bestowed, so may we expect to meet
with an abundant gratitude; for, like the dettcr part of
humanity, it can appreciate, and wiil fully return former
benevolence.

CALENDAR OF OPERATIONS

JANUARY.
OUT-DOOR CULTURE,
Iv our northern, ice-bound regions very little can be
done in this month, further than preparing for the future.
We may, however, take notice of all that will be re

painting and cleaning trellises, collecting and preparing
stakes, and other matters of like character, which would
interfere with time when we can ill spare it. In the
South, the instructions for February and March will be
suitable at this time. And here we may state, that a
similar difference will apply, until about ripening-time,
for the rame latitudes.

COLD GRAPERY.

Keep the house cool and open with bright sunshine,
but close at night, and likewise in the day-time when the
weather is seysre and cloudy. Examine occasionally for
tats and mice, as they sometimes do much mischief by

ing the vines. It is well to rub a little arsenic be
tween slices of bread, cheese, or beef, and lay them close
to the base of the plants. underneath the covering.

174 THE GRAPE.

exert his best skill. See to the covering of the borders;
be sure these are right.—(See page 81.) In the first
early house the vines will be considerably advanced in

. is day, with sunshine, or 75° without it. When
is blossoms begin to expand, cease watering overhead
until the berries are set, but damp the surface of the
floor, and over the heating apparatus, while the house is
in the afternoon. The second early house will
be about starting, for which see page 84. These direc-
tions will apply to this house now. See, also, page 87.

RETARDING HOUSE.

This part of grape-culture has not yet become as gen-
eral as it ought to be. The object is to keep back or
retard the ripening of the fruit (fully explained on page
98), so as to have it fit for use during the winter months,
To the commercial grower we here more particularly
speak, as, during the winter months, a higher price is
paid for grapes than at any other season of the year.
At present the demand far exceeds the supply. Inste:
of fine black Hamburgs, or others of like quality, there
is nothing for sale but the White Lisbon and Black Por-

_ tugal—two inferior kinds, which are rendered still worse
: ua ap and the sea-voyage from Portugal and
other parts uthern Europe. As the grapes ought

now to be hanging ripe in this house, constant slow fires

should be used to — a dry atmos.
, and the bunches free ecaying berries.
re ere :

CALENDAR OF OPERATIONS. 175

FEBRUARY.
OUT-DOOR CULTURE.

much can yet be done in this department, except
as explained last month. If pruning was not done in the
fall, take the earliest opportunity for the operation
during the first mild weather. Never cut a branch from
any plant wher frozen; rather wait beyond the usual
time, but do not delay in this case longer than is neces
sary. ‘Tie the vines to the stakes or trellises; level
manure when recessary, so that the melting snow and
rains may wash it down amongst the roots sie to
digging or forking the ground after winter is over

COLD GRAPERY.

The directions for last month will apply also to this;
y, there is no need for repetition.

FORCING HOUSE.
As the weather is very fue REM generally, in this
month, the utmost care is required ; for, be it remem
bered, that all the growth we ‘oa ye a so far, is artifi-
cial, and soon injured. Watch aoa the changes
front a north-east and wet storm, to the ight,
severe, na drying atmosphere of the amen: Ih
such case, mind to keep the floor of the house damped
over several times during the first day, and afterwards
until the tender ang can withstand the sun's —
influence. Syringe overhead every evening in
weather, but sleroaeige water during wet storms, aad
while ossoms are expanded, except on the floor of
the house. In the earliest house let the ee
range from 60° at night to 85° or 90° with sunshine
For second early, eee

176 THE GRAPE.

RETARDING HOUSE.

Attend to last month’s directions.

MARCH.
OUT-DOOR CULTURE.

In all localities, excepting the extreme north, the roi
will now be in a fit state for working, and no time should
be lost in getting ready for planting. Ifthe land for vin-
yard culture has an open, sandy, or gravelly ——
where the water passes freely away, there will be n
further preparation required than deep trenching, or sur-
face ploughing, followed with a subsoil plough that will,
at least, penetrate twenty inches deep,—if deeper, so much
the better ; indeed, it ought to go down to the natural
drainage. If the subsoil is heavy and stiff, the situation
is inferior for the purpose, and artificial drains will more
than repay the cost of making.

_ Many persons think the older a vine is before planting,
the sooner they will have a full crop of fruit. I have fre-
quently talked with those who needed to be convinced
that a three or four year old vine would not set and ripen

plenty of bunches the same season it is planted. For the
vineyard, either cuttings or one year old plants are best.
The latter, all things considered, have the preference. It
is far better to have an abundance of healthy roots, with —
a small well-ripened stem, than the reverse. The plants
may ee ea ct cree

es mies a Yee ot erga -

CALENDAR OF OPERATIONS. 177

It is expected that pruning has been completed before
this time; if not so, do it without delay. When this
operation is deferred until late, the vines will “ bleed”
freely, and, although this does not materially injure them,
it nevertheless prevents a vigorous burst of the foliage
atJ young shoots, retards the ripening, and injures the
quatity of the fruit for the season. If the vines have not
been ueatly tied to the or stakes, do it at once,
When the branches are left to be dashed about by the
a gales, or even see when the buds are

swelling, they are easily injured. Remove all the loose
bark, and examine if there be any chrysalides or eggs of
insects in the crevices,—if so, destroy them; and when
there is only a limited quantity of vines, and time can be
spared, it makes sure work if both branches and trellis
should be washed over with the mixture mentioned on
page 65, Near a dwelling-house or other building this
ought to be done every season, for in such places the
i mm more numerous, and have better chances
of protection through the winter. Have

n

Fall as a mulch, at the same time.

and intended for fruiting the next sea-
son; (¢) stakes.

8*

178 THE GRAPE.

COLD GRAPERY.

The vines may remain covered until the latter part of
the present, or, in late situations, the beginning of next
‘nonth. The house should be kept cool by having the
ventilators and doors open at all times except during
severe frost. After the covering is removed, clean the
house and make all neat. Fork the inside beds, and
give a thorough syringing over the whole au select-
ing a mild time for the operation. Do n ne
repeat this operation daily until the dese focus
frosts is past. For planting. see page 59.

FORCING HOUSE.

This is the most trying month in the year, (even mors
so than the preceding one,) where grapes are being fore-
ed early, as, generally speaking, the roots are in a cold
bed, and notwithstanding there may be a sufficient
covering on the surface, still the soil lacks the genial heat
which a summer’s sun imparts, while, at the same time,
the branches are exposed to a temperature and atmos-
pkere suitable to their healthy action, and the advancing
fruit i is drawing considerably on the energy of the plants.
difference of condition and artificial position, tends

- CALENDAR OF OPERATIONS. 179

rays strike them. During these cold days, do not open
any but the top ventilators, and these no more than is
necessary to keep the thermometer from rising too high.
Damp the floor, sides and ends of the house, so as to
re a humid atmosphere, which will assist the cireu-
lation of the sap, the leaves absorbing the moisture
through the stomata, or breathing pores, on the under
side. Re careful to keep a steady range of temperature
from 60° at midnight, and 75° in cloudy, with a rise or
85° to 90° on sunny days. Break off all superfluous
growing shoots, thin the berries early, and reduce the
crop down to what is finally intended, so that the vines
may be eased as much as possible. The directions for
January, in the Forcing House, will now apply to the
Second Early.
RETARDING HOUSE.
Keep the atmosphere dry and cool, but if there be any
_ gvapes still hanging on the vines, do not let the frost in.
At this time the vines should be resting, consequently
e:re ought to be used in preventing the house from be-
ccming heated. If the pruning is not finished, do it im-
mediately, clean the vines, as previously advised for other
ciops, and lower the canes down from the roof, that the

_ stn may not have so much influence upon them. It is

_ mach better to get a tardy development than to have a
low temperature during growth.

APRIL.
_ Comparatively speaking, the grape grower will now
ingin to have aay work, The various successions of the _

180 THE GRAPE.
OUT-DOOR CULTURE.

In this department, when the buds are burst so far as
to show which are likely to be the most suitable shoots
for training in the right places, or to be left for fruiting,
go over the whole and rub off all that are not wanted, or
which, if left, would produce superfluous growth. This
operation requires some study as the work proceeds. A
reference to the illustrations in former pages will explain
what is here meant, and the reader will readily perceive
which buds ought to be taken out and ~_— left to grow.
I wish most particularly toi impress the importance of

this dis-budding upon all who desire either profit, or
grapes of the best quality. It will save much after-labor
in the way of summer pruning, and be of advantage to
the vines and fruit by more fully exposing the leaves to
air and light. The branches are less crowded, and the
carbonic i acid more thoroughly decomposed, thus form-
ing a larger amount of saccharine matter in the fruit,
and better ripened and firmer wood for the next year.

COLD GRAPERY.

: The vines in this house may now be uncovered even
in the coldest localities. Examine them to see if any

ges,
great caution the whole, 0 or a
of the cane, will die off. The best

CALENDAR OF OPERATIONS. 18!

and vigorous shoot near the lower end has grown some
eighteen inches, when the whole upper head may be ent

furnished prejudice, sonic. and hed icainagement, a sub-
terfage to condemn the practice of growing the Enropean
grapes under glass, without artificial heat. When no
injury has occurred, the vines may be loose! ty tied to
the wires, with the top left suspended in an arched
position, until all the buds are well and evenly grown
sorme two or three inches, after which the canes should
be fastened in their permanent form for the summer,
Do not let any drafts of air into the house, but lower the
temperature as may be desired by opening the top ven-
tilators. Keep the house cool during the first three
weeks on account of the liability to frosty nights. Let
the thermometer, up to the end of this time, rise no
higher than 65°, if possible. At the end of the month it
may be allowed to rise to 70°, or 75° and 80°, and now
commence using water freely with the syringe or hose-
pipe, evenings and mornings, distributing it over every
the vines, and into all crevices of “aay woodwork,
for the double purpose of moistening the atmosphere,
and dislodging any insects that have taken refuge there.
FORCING HOUSE.
earliest crop will now be ripening fast, and thin.
nine ih te ee The heat may be increased to 65°
or 70° at night, and 85° to 90° at mid-day. Water over- —
head ought now to be discontinued, but damp the floor -
of an evening. Continue to nip out Oe

18Z THE GRAPE.

zrowth of the lateral shoots to one leaf above where last
stopped, and remove ail the lower side shoots on eacn
fruit spur, excepting the two uppermost, which are left
for the purpose of drawing the sap, and preventing the
base buds from bursting.

The kind of mildew which is sometimes so troublesome
during July and August, to late crops, seldom shows
itself in an early house of grapes. But there is another
sort, which appears as a delicate white mold on the sur-
face of the berries, and on the upper side of the leaves,
and this is more prevalent in the forcing house than the
cold grapery. It is most to be apprehended after a dry
and heated atmosphere has been maintained for some-
time, as for instance, immediately after “ blooming time.”
This disease may be thoroughly destroyed by syringing
the vines with water, in which has been mixed some flour
sulphur, say one pound to twenty gallons. While using,
keep the sulphur well stirred, for it is upon the contact
of this and the fumes given off by slow combustion, that
the remedy depends.

The same directions that were given last month for the
earliest house, will now be applicable to the second early,
and need not be repeated.

8 THE RETARDING HOUSE.
5 Let all the doors and ventilators be open until the buds

teres no danger of frost ; | when 80, the house may be
- elosed d again early in the morning.

CALENDAR OF OPERATIONS, 183

der for the roots to grow in. nearly or quite reised above
the ground level, which, from its drier capacity, will as
sist the vines more fully to centralize their juices, and
somewhat prevent the accumulation of too much crude
fluid and unripened growth in the fall.

MAW.

Now that the severity of the season is over, we may
look among the vines, and examine the effects of the ex-
treme cold of the past winter. There will be instances,
in very cold latitudes, where ‘the vines have excusably
suffered ; but, in the majority of cases, the mischief has
occurred through an over-damp or imperfectly drained
sub-soil. Those under glass may be injured from the
same cause, and from over-rich, deep borders, which
tend to keep the canes in a growing state, and supplied
‘with too much fluid, until the approach of winter, leav-
ing no time before the frost sets in for the drying up or
ripening off of the woody fibre. In in-door culture, some

otection is afforded by the house, even though no fire-
heat has been applied through the winter. True, we
sometimes see examples where the exotics growing in
the open air are nearly or i uninjured, leading us
to infer that no covering is necessary. In the sir
however, we must recollect ane much richer beds ar
prepa’ pared for the roots, and, consequently, a large pata

is p which requires longer time, and a drier
atmosphere in the Fall, to evaporate the surplus jui res,

considerati
ing the vines in houses where fire-heat is not used. 2
T have spoken thus minutely of this, as many practical

} and — — : o

184 THE GRAPE.

grapes, providing they can succeed with them without
the expense and trouble of artificial heat. a
fire-heat is of service, temporarily, there is no actual n
cessity for it, as, with a well-fitted glass arbor, attention
to covering in the winter, and not hastening the vines
into growth in the spring, great results may be accom-
plished, as I have proved during the last ten years.

OUT-DOOR CULTURF.

In the vineyard, and out-door culture generally, the
vines will now begin to show their fruit, and likewise
the most suitable branches for next year’s bearing. Con-
tinue to disbud, or rub out, all that are superfluous.
Those which are fastened to stakes will require, say two
of the best lower shoots to be left. A sufficient number
should be retained upon trellises to fill up all vacancies,
or furnish branches te be laid in at the distance of eight-
een inches apart, as fruiters hereafter. Nothing dete-
riorates the quality of the fruit, or renders it Subject te

CALENDAR OF OPERATIONS. 185

the shoots are sufficiently advanced to stow the best

cepting these, may be rubbed out. It is best, however,
t’ leave an extra one on each spur, in case of accident,
for, when fire-heat is not used, the young shoots are quite

amount of woody fibre is formed at their base to connect
them firmly with the parent branch. For the same rea
son they ought to be handled very carefully, and not be
drawn down to the wires too soon. Towards the middle
or latter part of the month, according as the locality is
free from frosts, the house should be kept more closely
shut, and the vines allowed to commence their growth
in earnest. Let the temperature be gradually raised a
degree or two each day, beginning with 70°, and in-
creasing to 85° in the middle of the day. Do not
open the lower ventilators, as the cold air checks the
circulation of the sap, and paralyzes the action of the plants.
Close the house early at night, use water freely over-
head, and give the vines every chance to push into vig-
orous growth. The outside borders should also be
attended to. We will presume that a mulching of manure
was applied in the fall, which should now be forked over,
leaving the soil loose and open, to allow the air and sun

to aet upon the sub-soil, thus invigorating the roots.
If this covering of manure was omitted, apply it at once,
after lightly Soaking « over the border. The spring rains
will carry the soluble fertilizing material to the roots, as
tcod for the plants.

THE FORCING HOUSE.

The earliest crops will now be ripe, and the second
early “stoning.” When the last swell of ie frat come
mences, syringing

186 THE GRAPE.

water entirely withheld inside of the house as the color
ing progresses. At this time, a grape-vine will be main-
tained in a healthy state, if kept very dry. We are,
however, sometimes compelled to apply water, to pre-
vent the encroachment of insects; but when this becomes
a necessity, the water should never come in contact wi:}
the fruit, as it would cause some kinds to burst their
skins, and all would be injured in appearance by the
“bloom” being washed from the surface of the berries.
For the latter reason, the bunches should not be touched
with the fingers, or rubbed in any way, while hanging
on the vines. As the side-shoots continue to push fresh
growth, the tops will need to be shortened-in to one leaf’
above the former pinching; but in young canes of the
present season, the top may be allowed to extend, and
the laterals shortened to one leaf as they continue te
increase. The later successions of grapes wili require
the same treatment which was recorded for this, in the
last two months, and need not be repeated here.

RETARDING HOUSE.
With the retarded crop the temperature may be main-
as low as possible for some time yet, and avery
small 1 pases water used,

CALENDAR OF OPERATIONS. 187.

summer-pruning, and aad mt to the fruit ; there-
fore, do not leave mvre branches than are necessary t¢

training. A reference to former chapters and cuts will
show what is here meant. Let these young shoots

ire some woody fibre at the base before tying-in,
alse they will be liable to break off; but do uot delay
the operation longer than necessary. Some persons use
willow twigs and rye straw for this purpose ; the former,
however, are troublesome, and the latter very unsightly,
Good Russian bast will always be found more conven-
ient, much neater, and quite as economical. As so

weaker growth the weight should be correspondingly
less, if good quality is the object. Keep a sharp look
out sg insects, as they sometimes do much mischief at
this time. There are several kinds of beetles and eater
pillars which eat the young shoots, and likewise the
stalks of the bunches. These should be destroyed by
___ hand-picking early in the morning, when they are slug-
_ gish and easily Seen There ‘a ales a gpa of Aphis,
or small black fly, which congregate in great numbers
on the young — and, by sucking shes juices, kill the
tops of the shoots if they are not destroyed. Syringing
with whale-oil soap dissolved in hot water, and after-
wards diluted to the proportions of one pound of the
soap to three arene of water, will be Peete e
the next best it

same way. It is not best to apply these materials while

the blossoms are

188 THE GRAPE.

hand before they become numerous. Loosen the svil
with the hoe or plough, to destroy weeds, and allow the
rains to penetrate. The cuttings which were put down
in March will alsc be benefited by the same process, and
if drouth should occur, a good soaking of water will
make their success more certain, and prevent many from
dying out. Now is a good time to propagate by layers.
For this purpose, bury a branch of last year’s growth
some four inches deep, leaving the young lateral shoots
_ of the present season in a perpendicular position, having
the tops above ground. Press down some hooked pegs,
to keep the branch in its place, and cover with earth.
at the end of summer, these upright branches will have
an abundance of roots, and may be divided into as many
individual plants.
COLD GRAPERY.

The vines in this house will, like those in the open air,
be in active growth, and all means should be used to
eneourage their development. Syringe over the whole
every evening, if the weather is clear and dry, but not
otherwise, — before sundown, closing the house
at the same time, and do not 2 when cloudy; be
careful, however, to ventilate when the sun’s rays burst

sudderty out. The great object is ce maintain an even
temperature, or rather a gradual but slow rise until mid-
day, a steady heat till evening, and a corresponding fall
from that time until midnight. The thermometer may
be allowed to ascend to 85° or $0°. The advice as te
training, fertilizing, &c., given in former pages, for the
forcing house, will now apply to this, and need not be

— : FORCING HOUSE.
oy Te rttpw vo monly wed md he

CALENDAR OF OPERATIONS. 189

next beginning to color. Water overhead ought to be
discontinued in the latter, and entirely withheld in the
former. Keep the house well aired, by opening both
the top and front ventilators. Let the airing be more or
less abundant, according to the weather, ventilating
freely when clear and warm, and closing the house when
stormy and cool. As much as possible maintaiz a free
circulation ; for, if the grapes become covered with con-
densed moisture the flavor is very much PEER
besides being liable to rot. If wasps or flies become
troublesome, hang up vials partially filled with molasses
and honey mixed together, or some sugar dissolved in
water, with the addition of a small portion of rum,
Either of these mixtures will entice them to enter the
vessel, and both will destroy; the first by its adhesive
consistency, and the second by its stupifying effects,
causing the insects to fall into it, where they are’
drowned.

RETARDING HOUSE.

This house may now be closed in the evening, and
kept cool during the day, which may be sticotepieliesd
by lowering the Fi ventilators far down. Do not open
ithe at all when cloudy, and no further
at. any time than is eee necessary to reduce the heat
to 75 deg. at noor. When the weather is settled and

ry, asional syringing in the evening may be ap-
plied, bat this must be done with caution, on account of
the liability to mildew; for this crop is more commonly
attacked than any other. This affection does not oftem —
appear until next month, and will be fuily discussed at

190 THE GRAPE.

JULY.
MILDEW.

As this pest to the grape-grower commences — de
structive effects with the first damp and mu: ather
in this month, and, if not timely checked, will cians
destroy the hopes of the cultivator, the subject requires
more than a passing notice, and at the risk of being
thought tedious, we again repeat an auiceaioen: This
intruder is a fungoid plant, strictly parasitical in its na
ture, requiring a living organism upon which to com-
mence developing. It is also entirely dependent upon a
peculiar state of the atmosphere, otherwise the sporules
or minute seeds which float unperceived in the air, cannot
vegetate. The first indication of mildew is manifested by

spots on the leaves, generally along the mid-ribs

and larger reticulations. The fleshy parts, so far as affeet-

od, are = Sayed: —_ — -~ this, the

: white down
on the under side of the leaf. In this state tho spores _

are ripe for future growth; and so quick is this action,

that in two or three days they will spread over a great

_ part of the leaves and fruit, causing the entire vines to be

_irreparably injured for the season. —
_ Our own native kinds, such as Isabella, &c., having a

UALENDAR OF OPERATIONS, 191

comparatively free. For this reason, it is advisable te
keep the doors and lower ventilators closed, and admit
air only by the upper openings until the fruit begins to
lose its acidity, after which there is no danger.
The antidotes to mildew are a warm and dry atmos.
phere, and sulphur. Whenever it is detected, do not use
any water inside the house during cloudy or damp
weather, and sprinkle sulphur over the floor in the fro-
portion of one pound to each fifteen square yards. There
is no occasion to throw it over the plants inside the house,
but in the vineyards or ont-doors, it will be requisite to
dust it in an upward direction, so as to adhere to the
under side of the — and prevent the rains from
washing it off. The fumes given out by slow combustion
are the remedy, and care shou'd be taken that it is not
ited. Mistakes have frequently been made by per-
ucing burning sulphur into graperies and
plant-houses, as well as using it under the leaves of trees
out-doors, the consequence of which is, a total destruction
of the Bias if not death to the plant.

OUT-DOOR CULTURE.

Continue to keep the ground clear from weeds, using
the hoe freely, but do not injure the roots. Remember
that every weed draws moisture out of the earth, while
every stroke of the hoe enables the dews to penctrate.
Wherever it is possible, a good mulching of barn-yard
manure, or any kind of vegetable refuse that is free from
weeds, ought to be spread over the whole surf ‘e, which
will assist in keeping the soil moist, and promote the
vigor of the vines. Do not let the growth become
srowded. Nip out the side laterals on the young canes
down to the lowest leaf upon each, and the new growth
: Se :

192 THE GRAPE.

Soap-suds and chamber-lye are of great benefit, applied
in oF. weather, when the vines are growing freely.
They ought, however, to be diluted with one-half water,
ie oulecty the former, which may be readily done by
sinking a large tub in the ground in a convenient place,
£0 as to receive the liquid as it is made, mixing as used.
When the ground is very wet, do not add more moisture ;

and when it is applied, pour down in pailfuls over the
surface as far as the roots extend, but not — vi
base of the stem, as many peop!e very ignorantly
The feeders are not here; they penctrate to a RRP
distance, and water applied to the stem does more harm
than good, sometimes rotting the trunk.

Never take off any leaves from the branches to “let in
light to the fruit,” which is another evil practice. The
fruit is naturally shaded by the leaves, and so situated, it
is always of better quality, provided there is a free circu-
lation of air and overcrowding prevented, which may be
done by following the advice above.

COLD GRAPERY.°

The same practice of stopping the laterals and ends of
the shoots, as described in the foregoing, will apply here.
Maintain the temperature at 90° to 95° with sunshine,
and graduate as advised last month. Continue to syringe
the vines overhead, if the weather be dry and clear; but
if mildew make its appearance, cease to use any water
inside

CALENDAR OF OPERATIONS, Wi

entirely destroy the mildew, while the introducticn of
any preventive in a liquid state is, to aay the least, of a
doubtful utility ; all such, which I have known, oaly in-
erease the evil. See that the outside borders are well
malched, if not already attended to; and should there be
diouth, a good soaking of water, in which is dissolved

pound of guano to thirty ¢ gallons ; or, still better, the
diluted drainings of a dung-hill wi f material ser-
vice. As the berries progress in size, lose no time in
commencing to cut out the superfiuous ones, according
to previous dircctions, and when it is desired to retain
them upon the vines after ee ripe, reduce the
quantity of berries so that they may hang loosely, and
the air be enabled to circulate through the | bunches.

PORCING-HOUSE.

The only care required hereafter in this department
wil be the eradication of insects, and shortening-in the
extra growth. Let the house remain open at all times,
excepting during storms, to preserve the fruit, and pre-
vent the vines from pushing a second growth, which
would seriously injure them for another season.

RETARDING-HOUSE.

The same treatment recorded for the Cold Capes
last month will now apply to this, excepting that the
thermometer may range some five degrees lower at mid.
day, and great care should be exercised in nie
If mildew shows itself, keep the house dry, apply the
sulphur, and employ heating apparatus just sufficient
to rarify the air. entilators at the same

time to reuuce the

194 THE GRAPE

Those cultivators who have taken our advice witk
regard to early removal of superfluous shoots, and shorten
ing-in of the fruit branches, will now see the advantage
in the promising fruit, and the thick solid texture of the

aves. ere this more oo attended to, we
shoul not hear of so many instances of decay and
falling off of the fruit, or ge Greet respecting the defi-
ciency in ripening.

Continue to keep the ground free from weeds, and
when the hoe only is used, let the ground be deeply and
well stirred.

Notwithstanding all the care that can be taken, there

may occasionally be some diseased berries, and now is

the time to remove such by cutting them out with the

scissors. little care bestowed in this way will more

— repay the labor. It can be done with little expense,
though it be over a large vineyard.

COLD GRAPERY.

_ During the early part of the month be on the look-out
for mildew, more particularly in damp or foggy weather.
The — are now in the greatest abundance, and will
most readily germinate under favorable circumstances.
Counteract Baas liability to this fungus by a dry atmos-

5 ait ibeasinaee with the fumes of sulphur under slow

CALENDAR OF OPERATIONS. 195

mapery on the first of the month from the earliest
varieties, but this is not usually accomplished until the
middle or latter part of the month. As the ripening

fog omit the use of water entirely, and give more
air, gradually opening the lower ventilatcrs if the weather

sudden checks, which would arrest the chemical changes
going on at this critical period, and injure both the
coloring property and the flavor of the berries. When
the fruit is nearly ripe the upper ventilators may be lef
open at all times, but it is well to close the lower ones at
night to keep out mice and currents of damp air.

FORCING HOUSE.
Tn this house as much air should be admitted as pos-
sible. All the doors and movable windows may be
santly open, except during windy or stormy weather,
and then they ought to be only so far closed as to insure
safety to the house. Were it not that our glass roofs are
somewhat permanently fixed, it would be better wien
the grapes are all cut, to take off the glasses and leave
the vines entirely exposed, as the rains would wash out
many insects, and the birds assist in destroying the re
— which would, in many instances, save much
in artificial cleaning without injury to the vines,
Si Wal ee pretty press gis:

RETARDING HOUSE.

The operations of last month in the cold grapery will ©

now apply here, with the exception of maintaining a
temperature some 5° lower than there recommended,
and using a com) ly quantity of water. Un-

less “he weather gieie acon cena teneden

96 THE GRAPE.

water at all inside the house, more particularly if mildew
makes its appearance.

SEPTEMBER.
OUR-DOOR CULTURE.

There is not much to do in this department at present,
further than keeping the continually extending growth
in check by pinching ont the ends of the shoots, and the
ground free from weeds as previously advised. In some
localities the fruit will be ripening, and a word of caution _
may be of service with respect to gathering the bunches.
Grapes are never in their best state, either for present
use or late keeping, until they have hung some time after
they appear ripe. The flavor is thereby vory much im-
proved, and the acid in a great measure remov ed.
Never gather a bunch of grapes until a portion of the
stalk nearest to the bunch is quite brown and partially

__._ hrivelled, which is a sure indication that nature has
___ perfected the fruit. After this there is nothing to be
ee gained i in ali by —— them longer, but for winter
to let them remain on the vine
erly bein to teal and fall,
COLD GRAPERY.
epecud that all the fruit is ripe excepting the
very latest —- Leave the house open at all times,
: til ly sufficient to pr —- the grapes
: from being spoiled doring rains. Maintain a dry atmos
phere, withholding water t the remainder of the season.
super! —— see to

oe be care bot

CALENDAR OF OPERATIONS. 197

farther than is necessary to prever.t the increase of
insects, An occasional watering with a syringe or force
pump, will not only preserve the leaves in a healthy
state for the remainder of the season, but ——
assist in keeping the vines clear of insects by dislodging
them from the corners and crevices. This ca prevent
their increase, and obviate the necessity of using those
strong washes which some persons consider indispensable,
and which, from their caustic nature, frequently injure the
cellular organs of the vines. Do not remove any more
of the young growth than is necessary to give free light
to the main leaves attached alternately on the ripened
shoots, as too close cutting at this time has a tendency
to burst the buds which are intended to remain dormant
until the next forcing period.

RETARDING HOUSE.
The same directions as for Cold Grapery will alse
apply here at present.

OCTOBER.

The preservation of grapes beyond the usual period of
ripening is a great desideratum, and deserves something

this é
which have had the watery portions evaporated by a
warm, dry atmosphere, othe the sugary matter and a
= ofthe aroma. If after the maturity of the frait, our
wn climate was as dry and warm as that of southern
Sin, —_ arded ~* no ———) in heap the fruit,
hang n the vines, and gather
tem eae As we have not their natural advantage

this respect, we must i imitate

we can.

ir climate as near a8

198 THE GRAPE.

There is a great difference in the keeying propertics
of many of the varieties. For instance, the Frontignans,
Museats, and several of the Chasselas, though early sorts,
will dry up and shrink so much that they become partially
raisined, and in such state will not decay, Margie they
are kept in a dry atmosphere, free from frost and s
pended upside down, so that the berries hang loosely.
There are others that have a solid texture, approaching
that of an apple, as Reine de Nice, White Lisbon, &e..
which, by having the bunches cut into smail parts and
laid upon a shelf in a good fruit room, wrapped with cot-
ton wadding, will keep for several months, while the

burgs, and other tender-skinned sorts, soon decay
after they are fully ripe, and no means has been devised
to keep them for a length of time.

Grapes, both foreign and domestic varieties, may be
kept a long time by choosing perfectly ripe bunches, and,
if large, cut them into small parts, removing any decayed
berries, and sear the end of each stalk where cut, with a
red-hot iron, exposing them afterwards in a very dry
room for three days. Have in readiness some soft tissue
paper, and wheat bran that has been well dried by fire

a heat. Wrap each small cluster in a piece of the paper,

pac in gl jas and fill in between with a small por-
tion of the bran, and so proceed till the jar is filled, each
_ duster of fruit being surrounded and covered with the
bran. Place a paper over the top, and stretch a piece of
bladder over this to exclude the sit. Let the jars be

_ stored in a dry, cool room, wh t kept
at 40° to 45°, and use each jar as may be required.
Glazed earthenware, or airtight boxes, will answer as a
: t be had, always keeping
atmosphere. T may add, in connection with this
ee ee Petes Be Cale, a neigh-

CALENDAR OF OPERATIONS, 139

oor of mine, brought me a beautiful bunch of Isabela
grapes, as fresh and plump as when first cut from the
vine. This had been kept with others in a glazed earth-
euware jar, which was buried two and one-half feet deep
in The flavor was somewhat deteriorated,
bat the experiment is well worth repeating.
OUT-DOOR CULTURE.

Continue to gather fruit, and see the last month’s ad-

vice.
COLD GRAPERY.

No water must be used inside the grapery, and a free
circulation of air be maintained, so as to prevent any

condensation of moisture upon the fruit. During damp
or rainy weather the upper ventilators may be partially
left open, which will have a beneficial influence, preserv-

th
If this is attended to in a house where there is no artif-
cial heat, the fruit may be preserved on the vines until a
severe frost is apprehended.

FORCING HOUSE.

Follow the same direction as last month.

RETARDING HOUSE.

_ In the retarding house, where the berries are now eok
oving, the bunches of some kinds may be preserved until
late in March by simply keeping out the frost by fre
heat, and giving air at all favorable oppertunities through
the vinter.

NOVEMBER.
Most of our labors for the present season are now fin-
ished, d

cs See S

200 THE GRAPE.

been the results. In consequence of a wet and cold s
son, the wood of ali out-dour grape-vines, and also that
in most cold greperies may not be thoroughly ripened,
which renders it recessary to assist by artificial means te
make up the deficiency. This in out-door culture, oR
he done by removing the superfluous shoots,
ing the sun to act upon the branches, and further concen
trate or ripen the juices, thus reducing the quantity of
ueous matter contained in the vine. Do not, —
injure the leaves on the remaining branches, as resy
tion would be checked, and the object intended to be
gained prevented. It is advisable to follow up the same
course with late crops under glass, and, in addition, to
deviate a trifle from general practice by keeping the
house a little warmer than usual. This may be accom-
plished by keeping the lower ventilators ¢ Set bed
which a higher temperature will be maintained ne
bottom of the house. A free circulation, quite aikiad
all purposes, may be admitted by the upper openings.
ae re genial and dry atmosphere will thus be secured, which
aS will enable the vines to complete the ripening process

_grape-vine leaf be injured by extreme cold before it is

- mature, if it is possible to avoid it. So long as te remains

_ green, it is doing service to the vine. In a healthy plant
oe ony kind, when nature has accomplish

_ she will cast off the useless parts, and any interference ia

CALENDAR OF OPERATIONS, 201

the needful operations can now be executed much hetter
while the ground is in good working order, and not satu.
rated with water. For the vineyar a. drain if necessary,
plough a deep furrow, and follow with the subsoil plough ;
or when only of small extent, trench two spits deep.
Nothing will be lost by the extra labor, If the soil be
not naturally very fertile, add a good dressing of barn-
yard manure, or an abundance of rotten leaves.

Those who only wish to plant a few hardy vines, and
have their land in a good state for the purpose, may do
so at the commencement of this month. It is not advisa-
ble to defer it later in the season. The best choice of
plants is generally to be obtained in the nurseries at this
time, which is an object. Ifremoved early enough, and
the roots are kept moist until they are again plant
they will be in a good condition for a vigorous start in
the Spring.

COLD GRAPERY.

The Cold Grapery will require to be as dry as possible ;
keep the ventilators continually open, partially close in
damp or rainy weather, but maintain a free circulation of

i be eé:

fresh air. If frost tees shut up close at night,
remove all decaying berries, and see to general cleanli
ness.

FORCING HOUSE.
‘The wood in the forcing house ought now to be the-
roughly ripened, with no leaves remaining, which is a
seasonable time to prune. After pruning, remove all the
tose Lar k, and clean well around the bases of the spurs ta _
prevent inseets lodging therein. Wash the vines with |
the preparation advised on page 65, taking care not to |
injure the buds. Keep the house as cool as possible, and
let the vines rest so until the time to commence

202 THE GRAPE.

whick will be according as early or later grapes are e want
: = To obtain ripe fruit by the middle of April, cou
ce at once, and if in May, it will be required to begin
by ed middle of December, and later in proportion. [See
ge 84.) Such extreme artificial age should not be
eed by the novice, however, as it requires con-
siderable experience, and is aossiied with much care and
expense.
RETARDING HOUSE.

In the retarding house, where there is a — ap-
paratus, a gentle fire should be applied, if frost in the
night be apprehended, but admit air freely, excluding
any moisture.

DECEMBER.
OUT-DOOR CULTURE.

Excepting in the most northern or north-western parts
of the country, the pruning of the hardy kinds of out-
door grapes may be proceeded with, It ought not, how-
ever, to be done during severe frost. Where the land

will still admit of being worked, the upper soil should be

- ledsened with the fork, some four or five inches deep,
over the whole surface; after which a mulching of de

. _ eayed leaves, vegetable refuse, or barn-yard manure, will

more than repay the cost. On a large scale this might
seem tedious, but it does not alter the ease ; for if good

attention and the best culture will pay on a small scale,

they will be found equally remunerativ

e in extensive

_ eulture. Depend upon it, one of the main secrets of
making grape-culture pay, in all the varied departments,
is in enabling each vine to do its best. Never attempt
Sac — and idles

CALENDAR OF OPERATIONS. 203

COLD GRAPERY.

If the vines in the Cold Grapery have not been pcuned,
do it at once, after which clean and wash with the mix-
ture recommended on page 65. After this operation,
prepare for covering, by bringing the vines down to
horizontal position along the line of planting. Tie the
cane loosely to the nearest wire, abont two or three feet
from the ground level, so that when the head is brought
down, this lower portion will remain in a nearly perpen-
dicular position. Next draw the upper portion down to
a level, and tie it to the wires or stakes in a horizontal
position. Lay the next in like menner alongside the

d so on, until near the other end of the house,
where some three or four canes will have to be reversed.
They are now ready for the covering. This for young
plants need be only a three-inch coating of straw tied
around with twine; but for older vines, that have got
spurs on, it is more convenient to "ise long boxes, made
decp enough, and nailed together without atop. These
inverted over the rows, make a neat covering. e
effectual method, however, is te fix bosrds along the
front of the vines, and close to trem. Fil! in the space
thus formed along the front of tie house wih dr= tree.

ves. e vines are thus enrvloped in a good rc
cting material that muintain a low yet even
cenperiias through the winter. It is difficult to con-
vince some persons that these exoiiecs require such effvet-
nal protection, but the extreme celd of the last few win-
ters has in part convinced them of its necessity. Through
out the winter let the houses be k=pt cool, by opening
the ventilators io scene day, and close up ae ngl., of
at all times when the weather ie eclundy, and cree
severe frosts,

204 THE GRAPE.

FORCING HUUSE.

The directions for last month, and a reference w page

84, will apply for this month.
RETARDING HOUSE.

In the Retardmg House, where tne grapes are oily
ripe, maintain a dry but cool atmosphere, and keep vut
frost by slow fires. Let the thermometer range from
45° to 50° at night, and 52° to 60° with sunshine

ent year may be plunged to the rims in a box frame, —
Fill in over the heads with leaves or straw, and place
shutter or glass sashes on the top. They may also be
preserved inside a Cold Grapery, or shed. The hardy
kinds, too, that have not ripened well, and are intended
for replanting next spring, will be benefited by lifting
and heeling-in close together in a trench, covering the
tops with earth, or a thick layer of evergreen boughs
rs becomes saturated with the winer’s

rains, and is worse than useless,

CHAPTER XVI.

SUPPLEMENTAL LIST OF
EXOTIC GRAPES.

In preparing a list of the newer varieties of exotic

pes, the object has not been to enumerate all that
have been produced since the former edition, but to give
only such as have met with general acceptance by the
grape-growers of both sides of the Atiantic. Moreover
it only includes those varieties that have entered into
ecommerce and may be procured of the principal dealers
in foreign vines.

It is said that of every hundred pear-irees planted in
this country, ninety are of the Bartlett variety. The
Black Hamburgh holds about the same position ameng
exotic grapes that the Bzrtlett does among pears.

When this work was originally written, the Black
Hamburgh stood at the head of the list, and in every
selection of ten or five varieties for the “Cold Grapery,”
the ‘‘Foreign House,” the ‘‘Retarding Honse,” or for
“ Pot Culture,” the Black Hamburgh occupied a promi-
nent place. Were similiar selections to be made now,

_ this most useful variety vould occupy the same positions.
As there are many beiter pears than the Bartlett, so
there are better grapes than the Black Hamburgh. In-
deed nearly every new variety may be its superior in some

one particular; but when we consider all the elements

As the eultere of out-door grapes is only incidentally
mentioned in the original work, its purpose being to
(205) oe

206 THE GRAPE,

instruct in the cultivation of grapes under glass, nc
attempt has been made to bring the list of hardy varieties .
up to the present time.

BLACK OR PURPLE GRAPES.

Buiack BARBARossa.—As suggested on page 107, this
is the sume as Prince Albert. It is highly valued as a
late variety, and now more generally bears the name here

iven.

Earty Brack BorpEaux.—Bunches of medium size,
shouldered. Berries ‘round, above medium size, black,
with a thin bloom. Flesh tender, rich, and sweet. ‘te
garded as one of the finest early purple varieties.

INTINDO. orous vine, of Italian origin. Bunch
large, compact, saa shouldered. Berries slightly oval,
dark violet. Flesh very sugary, with a pleasant aroma.
Resembles Black Hamburgh, but considerably earlier.

Gros Maroc.—Vine a great bearer, and well suited to
a cold vinery. Bunch very large, long, shouldered.
Berries oval, very large, deep reddish-purple, with a
thick bloom. Flesh tender, sweet, and rich. Ripens
after Black Hamburgh. A valuable market grape on ac-
count of its showy character.

Jura Muscat.—Vine very prolific. Bunch long,
tapering. Berries above medium, oval, well set, purplish
black, with athin bloom. Flesh tender, rich, with a fine
Muscat aroma.

Lapy Downe(syn. Lady Downe’s Seedling).—The vine
_ breaks late, and the fruit keeps later than any other. In
_ England it has been kept, by placing the stem in a bottle
of water, from August until June. Bunch large, rather
loose. Berries roundish-oval, above medium size, with
thick skin, reddish purple, becoming black, with deli-
— Flesh dall-white ite, firm, sweet, and rich.

SUPPLEMENTAL LIST OF EXOTIC GRAPES. 207

ESFIELD Court.—A comparatively recent yari-
ety, highly commended, with large berries, with a rich
Muscat flavor. A popular early market grape in London.

Muscat Hamsu g8 es resembles the ae

.Hamburgh in size and appearance, possessing, a
marked degree, the peculiar ae or of the Muscat of Ales:
andria. A favorite wherever known.

Mrs. Pince’s Brack Muscat.—Bunch large, shoul-
dered. Berries oval. Flesh firm and crisp, with a Mus-
cat flavor. A favorite variety in England, on account of
its keeping qualities.

TRENTHAM Biack.—Vine a great bearer, and well
suited to the cold vinery. Bunch large, tapering, and
shouldered. Berries large, oval. Flesh juicy, very

well-known English horticulturist ranks this as the best
of black grapes.

WHITE AND AMBER-COLORED GRAPES.

Bowoop Muscat.—This variety was merely mentioned
on p. 112 as a new grape “ which promises tobe very fine.”
It has quite fulfilled its early promise and ranks among the
best white grapes, setting and ripening well in the cold

-vinery. Bunch very large, well shouldered. Berries large,
becoming a bright amber color when ripe, with a sugary
Muscat pg

GoLpEN CHAMPION.—Regarded of as free growth and
as easy culture as the Black Hamburgh. Bunch and
berry both very large. Flesh firm, yet remarkably tender
and juicy. Very rich.

GOLDEN Hameviaie Wikis had a mere mention ae ee

page 112. It is a large grape, of excellent quality, with a

208 THE GRAPE.

rich yellow color when ripe. It has the fault of decaying
after it is fully mature.
Muscat St. Lavrent.—Vine as hardy as the White
Sweetwater. Berries oval, small, very juicy, with a high
Muscat flavor. Valued as one of the earliest white

Prrmaston WHITE CLuster.—A agg of the —
Cluster, and ieesci succeeds in the open

edium size, compact, shouldered. Barkin ‘<i
round, oa often tinged with russet when fully
ripe. arly.

PRIMAVIS a very large. Be:
large, round, amber-colored, rich, j uicy, and rasltent.
An early variety that sets well poe is productive. Re-
garded as the best of the Muscat Chasselas race.

TorrennAM Park Muscat, should be added to the
synonyms of Muscat of Alexandria.

TREBBIANO.—To succeed well, the vine requires a
rather high temperature during the autumn months,
when it is a good late variety and hangs well. Bunch
very large, broad, shouldered. Berries medium to large,
roundish-oval, with thick skin. Flesh firm, crisp, sweet,

rich.

“Warre SwEEtwater.—This, the best known of all
the exotic grapes, was, through inadvertence, omitted
from the original list of varieties. It is inferior to the
Royal Museadine, but ripens about two weeks earlier, a

matter of much importance when planted in the open

very loose. Berries medium, round, skin — clear
green, becoming amber when fully aig to the sun.
Flesh “=. — — not hase flavored.

CHAPTER XVII.

HARDY NATIVE GRAPES.

When this work was first published, the hardy native
grapes then in cultivation were the Catawba, Isabella,
Diana, Delaware and the Hartford Prolific, with, per-
haps, afew others, while the Concord was advised for
further trial. The lists of the present day include
varieties by the hundred, and thousands of acres are de-
voted to raising grapes to meet the popular demand.
’ Nothing in the history of our horticulture has been more
striking than the development of the hardy native grape.
Each year has produced new varieties, and the extended
lists how include excellent kinds suited to a great variety

of soils and climate. In view of so many kinds, the in-

ienced novice who would plant grape vines may

well be puzzled in his selection, and to aid such we give
aselect list, which may assist him in making a choice:
Agawam.—A robust vine ; fruit medium early, large —

in bunch and berry, brownish ; quality very good, but too
met . persons. excellent famiiy grape.
a7 sonata color of Catawba ; ~~

pair casa in localities this pioneer ee
still succeeds, ane where it does nothing —_—* ~~
it one of

210 THE GRAPE.

popular native variety in cultivation. Vast quantities
are grown for market.

CreveLINe.—Nearly black, of medium size; rarely
makes a well-filled bunch, but its earliness ~ i delient
quality make it one of the best family varietie

D RE.—Perhaps the next in ae to the
Coase Its small amber colored berries, in small,
compact clusters, are intensely sweet, and it beinga fair
keeper, it is largely grown for market. One of the best.

Etyvira.—A fine white grape, of good size in bunch
and berry. Popular at the West, but not commended
for Eastern localities.

Empire State.—One of the new white grapes, not
yet generally tested. The praises of the few who have
tried it give one high hopes of its excellence.

EumELan.—An early black variety, with berry and
bunch of medium size; quality among the best. An ex-
cellent family variety,

HigHtanp.—One of Mr. Ricketts’ hybrids; a very
large, showy, black variety, which appears to be worthy
of beep i

A.—After the style of the Catawba, and when in
pertctivn, the best of all native grapes. Unfortunately,
in but few localities, save as an experiment.

Tvus.—An Isabella-like black grape, grown extensively
in the West as a wine grape, and there noted for hardi-
ness and freedom from disease. An utter failure near

- New se a where better grapes succeed.
se xy Wasnineton.—A hybrid by Mr. Ricketts;
| ars sr a fine bloom, of great beauty of cluster, pad
big ay Worthy of trial.
eile = robust, early variety, of dark

brown color y sweet. >

HARDY NATIVE GRAPES. 211

Marrua.—A seedling of the Concord, and, on account
of its white color, much planted. Quality inferior.

Nracara.—A showy white grape, of fair quality,
which promises to be one of the most valuable of recent
introductions, and one of the most profitable for market.

WitpEe..—A large black berry, with all the good
characteristics of the Concord, and of vastly better
quality. Were it better known, it would supersede that
variety in popular estimation as ‘‘The grape for the
million.”

Worprn.—A seedling of Concord, resembling its
parent in color, hardiness and general adaptation toa
great variety of soil and climate. It is, however, some-
what earlier, the skin is less tender, it is freer from un-
ripe pulp, and of superior flavor.

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