Bette. Mangold

No. 1394. - This is a hardy, perennial plant. It is cultivated exclusively for its leaves, which are the only part of the plant eater, They are an excellent substitute for spinach, and by some are preferred to it. If planted in good soil it will supply excellent leaves for years. The leaves that are produced earliest are the best, and are fit for use from May until when the plant begins to run to flower. However, they may be continued in perfection through the whole summer and autumn by cutting off the flower stems as they arise.

Culture

No. 1395. - Sow them in April, in rows sixteen inches apart, and one inch under the soil. Thin them out to twelve inches apart in the rows. The leaves should not be cut from the seedling plants during the first season. There are two varieties. The English Sea Beet is a dwarf variety, with ovate leaves about four inches in length, of a thick, fleshy texture, and a dark-green color. The Irish Sea Beet is about the same, but has larger leaves, and is generally considered superior to the English variety.