Page:A Treatise on the Culture of the Vine and, and the Art of Making Wine.pdf/118



the cultivator, having applied the principles of the first chapter, to the situation in which he finds himself placed, and having combined as many favourable circumstances as may be compatible with it, has fixed upon the site of his vineyard, it becomes his next care, to prepare the soil for the reception of the plants; and for this purpose, that proceeding is best which is most effectual in clearing it from weeds, and reducing it to a friable and porous state.

The depth to which it is necessary to labour the soil, depends upon its nature, and the nature of the climate. In colder climates, a less depth is sufficient, because the plant is not suffered to grow to a large size, and has consequently less need that its roots should penetrate deep. Where a warmer climate allows the enlargement of its dimensions, it is, of course, requisite, that its roots should extend in proportion, and that the soil