In the limited space of the Home Acre one can use only
such land as he has, and plant where he must; but if the favorable
exposures indicated exist, it would be well to make the most of
them. I can mention, however, as encouragement to many, that I
saw, last fall, splendid grapes growing on perfectly level and
sandy soil in New Jersey.
A low-lying, heavy, tenacious clay is undoubtedly the worst ground
in which to plant a vine; and yet by thorough drainage, a liberal
admixture of sand, and light fertilizers, it can be made to
produce good grapes of some varieties. A light sandy soil, if
enriched abundantly with well-decayed vegetable and barnyard
manures, gives wider scope in choice of kinds; while on the ideal
well-drained sandy loam that we have described, any outdoor grape
can be planted hopefully if the garden is sufficiently removed
from the seaboard.
As a general truth it may be stated that any land in a condition
to produce a fine crop of corn and potatoes is ready for the vine.
This would be true of the entire garden if the suggestions
heretofore made have been carried out. Therefore the borders which
have been named are ready to receive the vines, which may be
planted in either spring or fall. I prefer the fall season for
several reasons. The ground is usually drier then, and crumbles
more finely; the young vine becomes well established and settled
in its place by spring, and even forms new roots before the
growing season begins, and in eight cases out of ten makes a
stronger growth than follows spring planting; it is work
accomplished when there is usually the greatest leisure.
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