or use the last of December or first of January.

"Cauliflowers are ready for cutting when the heads have attained a good
size, and while they are close, firm, and white. They may even be cut
before they have attained their full size; but it is always advisable to
cut them before the heads begin to open, as the flavor is at this stage
much more delicate and agreeable. In taking the crop, the stalks should
be cut immediately under the lowest leaves, and the upper parts of these
should be cut away near the flower-head.

"It is not size that constitutes a good Cauliflower, but its fine,
white, or creamy color, its compactness, and what is technically called
its 'curdy' appearance, from its resemblance to the curd of milk in its
preparation for cheese. When the flower begins to open, or when it is of
a frosty or wart-like appearance, it is less esteemed. In the summer
season, it should not be cut long before using."

_Use._--"The heads, or flowers, are considered one of the greatest of
vegetable delicacies, when served up at the table either plain boiled,
to be eaten with meat, like other Brassicae, or dressed with white sauce,
after the French manner. It is much used as a pickle, either by itself,
or as forming an ingredient in what is called 'mixed pickles.' It may
also be preserved a considerable time when pickled in the manner of
'sour-krout.' It also forms an excellent addition to vegetable
soups."--_M'Int._

_Preservation during Winter._--The best way to preserve them during
winter is to take them up late in the fall, with as much earth as
possible about their roots, and reset them in earth, in a light, dry
cellar, or in any other light and dry location secure from frost.

_Varieties._--These are comparatively few in number; the distinctions,
in many instances, being quite unimportant. In the color, foliage,
general habit, and even in the quality, of the entire list, there is
great similarity.

EARLY LONDON CAULIFLOWER.

London Particular. Fitch's Early London.

Stem tall; leaves of medium size. It has a fine, white, compact "curd,"
as the unexpanded head is termed; and is the sort grown in the vicinity
of London for the early crop. It is comparatively hardy, and succeeds
well when grown in this country. The plants should be set two feet and a
half apart.

EARLY PARIS CAULIFLOWER.

Head rather large, white, and compact; leaves large; stalk short. An
early sort. In France, it is sown in June, and the he