We have suggested that two sowings may be regarded as generally sufficient, but we are bound to take notice of the fact that the late supplies of these vegetables are sometimes disappointing.  In a mild winter the Kales reserved for use in spring will be likely to grow when they should stand still, and at the first break of pleasant spring weather they will bolt, very much to the vexation of those who expected many a basket of sprouts from them.  A May sowing planted out in a cold place may stand without bolting until spring is somewhat advanced.  Kale of the ‘Asparagus’ type, such as Sutton’s Favourite, will often prove successful when sown as late as July.

As regards the varieties, they agree pretty nearly in constitution, although they differ much in appearance and in the power of resisting the excitement of spring weather.  But in this section of vegetables there are a few very interesting subjects.  The Variegated and Crested Kales are extremely ornamental and eminently useful in large places for decorative purposes.  These do not require so rich a soil as Sutton’s A1 or Curled Scotch, and they must have the fullest exposure to bring out their peculiarities.  It is found that in somewhat dry calcareous soils these plants acquire their highest colour and most elegant proportions.  When planted by the sides of carriage drives and in other places where their colours may be suitably displayed, it is a good plan to cut off the heads soon after the turn of the year, as this promotes the production of side shoots of the most beautiful fresh colours.  A crop of Kale may be advantageously followed by Celery.

==Broccoli==

==Brassica oleracea botrytis asparagoides==

The great importance of this crop is indicated by the long list of varieties and the still longer list of synonyms.  As a vegetable it needs no praise, and our sole business will be to treat of the cultivation.

Of necessity we begin with generalities.  Any good soil will grow Broccoli, but it is a strong-land plant, and a well-tilled clay should yield first-class crops.  But there are so many kinds coming into use at various seasons, that the cultivation may be regarded as a somewhat complex subject.  We will therefore premise that the best must be made of the soil at command, whatever it may be.  The Cornish growers owe their success in great part to their climate, which carries their crops through the winter unhurt; but they grow Broccoli only on rich soil, and keep it in good heart by means of seaweed and other fertilisers.  All the details of Broccoli culture require a liberal spirit and careful attention, and the value of a well-grown crop justifies first-class treatment.  On the other hand, a badly-grown crop will not pay rent for the space it covers, to say nothing of the labour that has been devoted to it.