y be, the mode of culture remains
substantially the same in any case. Now, as to soil, a compost made of
mellow turfy loam and leaf-mould in equal parts will be effective and
sweet. In the absence of leaf-mould, use two parts of loam and one of
thoroughly decayed manure with a few pieces of charcoal added. Sweetness
is not absolutely necessary for success, but nevertheless we like to
have it, so that a visit to the Cucumber-house may be a source of
pleasure. This it cannot be if rank manure has been used. Raise the seed
singly in small 60-pots, and sow enough, for however good the seed may
be a proportion will almost certainly fail from some cause at this
critical period. Give the plants one shift into the 48-size, to keep
them going until they are ready for putting into the beds. Cucumbers
grow with great rapidity, and should never know a check, least of all
by starvation. Upon the slates make as many heaps of soil as are
required, and in the centre of each heap put one plant. As the roots
extend, add more soil until the heaps meet and finally become level with
the top of the brickwork. This treatment will supply food as the roots
develop, and help to maintain the plants in bearing for a long period.
Stout wires running parallel with the length of the house, a foot below
the glass, will carry the vines. Temperature should never fall below 60 deg.
at night; but as the season advances, if the thermometer registers 90 deg.
on sunny days, no harm will be done, provided the roots are not dry, and
the air be kept properly moist by plying the syringe. On dull days one
good sprinkling over the foliage will suffice, and it should be done in
the morning. In warm sunny weather, however, two or three syringings
will be beneficial; but the work must not be done so late as to risk the
foliage being wet when night comes on. There will be occasions when it
may be advisable to avoid touching the leaves with water, if there is no
probability of their drying before nightfall. In such a case the
moisture can be kept up by freely sprinkling the floor and walls.
Cucumbers cannot thrive if they are dry at the roots, but although there
should be no stint of water, it must be given with judgment; and it is
of the utmost importance that the drainage should be effectual, for
stagnant water is even more injurious than a dry soil. A few sticks
placed in various parts of the bed, reaching down to the slates, will
serve as indicators. Draw and inspect