too deeply, or to
manure too highly.

It may be propagated by seeds, or by a division of the roots; the latter
being the usual method. When grown from seeds, the plants not only
differ greatly in size and quality, but are much longer in attaining a
growth suitable for cutting.

"Whether grown from seed, or increased by a division of the roots, a
deep, rich soil, trenched to the depth of two or even three feet, is
required to insure the full development of the leaf-stalks; for upon
their size, rapidity of growth, and consequent tenderness of fibre, much
of their merit depends. The seed should be sown in April, in drills a
foot asunder; thinning the plants, when a few inches high, to nine
inches apart. In the autumn or spring following, they will be fit for
transplanting in rows three feet asunder, and the plants set three feet
apart. If propagated by dividing the roots, it may be done either in
autumn or spring; the same distance being given to the sets that is
allowed for seedling plants. As, however, some of the varieties grow to
a much larger size than others, a corresponding distance should be
accorded them, extending to five feet between the rows, and three feet
from plant to plant.

"The plants should be set out singly, and not in threes, as is so often
done. For the first year, the ground between the rows may be cropped
with lettuce, turnips, beans, or similar low-growing crops; but, after
the second year, the leaves will cover the whole space, and require it
also for their full development."--_M'Int._

_After-Culture._--This consists in keeping the soil well enriched, open,
and clear of weeds; and in breaking over the flower-stalks, that they
may not weaken the roots, and consequently reduce the size and impair
the quality of the leaf-stalks.

_Gathering the Crop._--"This is usually done in spring; commencing as
soon as the stalks have attained a serviceable size. No leaves, however,
should be plucked the first year, and only a few of the largest and
first formed during the second; and this plucking should not be made too
early in the season, because, in that case, the plants would be
weakened. From the third year, as long as the roots or plantations last,
it may be gathered with freedom. A plantation in good soil, and not
overmuch deprived of its foliage, will last from ten to fifteen years.

"When the leaves are about half expanded, they may be plucked for use;
but, when the largest returns are expected