during the
winter months, will keep the entire year.

WINTER STRIPED CROOKNECK.

This is a sub-variety of the common Winter Crookneck. Size large,--the
weight varying from six to twenty-five pounds; neck large and solid;
seed-end of medium size, and usually smooth; skin thin, very pale-green
or light cream-white, diversified with lengthwise stripes and plashes of
bright green,--the colors becoming gradually softer and paler after
gathering; flesh bright orange, and, like that of the common Winter
Crookneck, not uniform in texture or in flavor. Different specimens vary
greatly in these respects: some are tough and stringy, others very
fine-grained and well flavored. Seeds not distinguishable, in size,
form, or color, from those of the Winter Crookneck.

The variety is hardy, grows luxuriantly, is prolific, and keeps well. It
is more uniform in shape, and generally more symmetrical, than the
Winter Crookneck; though varieties occur of almost every form and color
between this and the last named.

As the plants require considerable space, the hills should not be less
than eight feet apart. Two or three plants are sufficient for a hill.

"The 'Crookneck Squash,' as it is commonly but incorrectly called, is a
kind of 'pumpkin,'--perhaps a genuine species; for it has preserved its
identity, to our certain knowledge, ever since the year 1686, when it
was described by Ray. Before the introduction of the Autumnal Marrow, it
was raised in large quantities for table use during the winter, in
preference to pumpkins, which it almost entirely superseded. Many
farmers now use it instead of pumpkins for cattle; the vine being more
productive, and the fruit containing much more nutriment in proportion
to its size. It varies considerably in form and color. The best kinds
are those which are very much curved,--nearly as large at the stem as at
the blossom-end,--and of a rich cream-color. It is said to degenerate in
the Middle and Southern States; where, probably, the Valparaiso or some
kindred variety may be better adapted to the climate."--_Dr. Harris._

CHAPTER V.

BRASSICACEOUS PLANTS.

Borecole, or Kale. Broccoli. Brussels Sprouts. Cabbage. Cauliflower.
Colewort. Couve Tronchuda, or Portugal Cabbage. Pak-Choei. Pe-Tsai, or
Chinese Cabbage. Savoy. Sea-kale.

* * * * *

BORECOLE, OR KALE.

Brassica oleracea sabellica.

The term "Borecole," or "Kale," is applied to a class of plants, o