" Out upon the nonsense of taking medicine
and nostrums during the currant-season! Let it be taught at
theological seminaries that the currant is a "means of grace." It
is a corrective; and that is what average humanity most needs.
The currant, like the raspberry, is willing to keep shady; but
only because it is modest. It is one of the fruits that thrive
better among trees than in too dry and sunny exposures. Therefore,
in economizing space on the Home Acre it may be grown among
smaller trees, or, better still, on the northern or eastern side
of a wall or hedge. But shade is not essential, except as we go
south; then the requisites of moisture and shelter from the
burning rays of the sun should be complied with as far as
possible. In giving this and kindred fruits partial shade, they
should not be compelled to contend to any extent with the roots of
trees. This will ever prove an unequal contest. No fruit can
thrive in dense shade, or find sustenance among the voracious
roots of a tree.
Select, therefore, if possible, heavy, deep, moist, yet well-
drained soil, and do not fear to make and keep it very rich. If
you are restricted to sandy or gravelly soils, correct their
defects with compost, decayed leaves and sods, muck, manure from
the cow-stable, and other fertilizers with staying rather than
stimulating qualities.
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