Page:Willich, A. F. M. - The Domestic Encyclopædia (Vol. 3, 1802).djvu/68

50] similar vegetables, that do not take deep root, or continue long in the ground. These quarters, however, ought not to be planted, or sown, for raising the same crops two successive years; and the warmest soil, or that which is next to the stable, where it is best sheltered from the cold winds, will be the most proper for hot-beds, to promote the growth of early cucumbers, melons, &c.—The most important points in this, as well as every other branch of horticulture, consist in digging and manuring the land well; in allowing a proper distance to each plant, according to its different growth; and, particularly, in eradicating all weeds; an object that will be considerably facilitated by continually extirpating them from the dunghill; as, otherwise, their seeds or roots will be constantly introduced into the garden, and propagated with the manure.

Another circumstance of equal importance, is the watering of gardens, for which the implements commonly employed appear to be very inadequate. The filling, and carrying, of these vessels to the spot where they are to be used, are attended with great labour and loss of time. To remedy these inconveniencies, different machines have been invented: one of the most ingenious and useful, is that contrived by M., and of which the following is an accurate representation:



It consists simply of a cask, capable of holding a sufficient quantity of water, for the purpose of irrigating the garden. The hinder part of this vessel is furnished with a cock that communicates with the watering pipes, and the cask is supported on a strong frame, with one or two wheels, calculated for walks about 18 inches wide. The carriage may be drawn by a mule or an ass, and requires a person to guide the animal; to support the vessel when it is liable to be overturned; and to open and shut the cock as often as is necessary. Thus, one man will be able to water a considerable space of ground in a short time, and to sprinkle that fertilizing fluid in an equable and regular manner.  KITE, or Falco Milvus, L. a well-known bird of prey, which is a native of Europe, Asia, and Africa.  The