The past autumn being what is termed "open " may have been advantageous to those who have not had their proportion of rainfall; but in many districts the continued floods have kept ground-work almost suspended. Whenever opportunity affords, there should be no delay in getting all vacant spaces turned up to the weather, trenching as much as time will allow. Deep soil has the advantage of suiting either wet or dry seasons, and the fresh bottom turned up is much like maiden soil. Strong heavy- clay should not be turned up in quantity, but only to help very light soil. Frost will break it down like powder, and it can be well forked into the surface when the ground is being prepared for cropping. A sandy bottom can be used in the same way to help a heavy surface. Rank manure, free from sticks, does much for heavy land when the material is trenched down two spades. Draining is so essential to success, that we need hardly refer to it. Where there is not natural drainage, good drains should be made, leading the waste water to a tank or other storage. Now is a good time for such work, while much land is vacant. Get manure wheeled on in frosty weather; always keep in view what the ground is to be cropped with.

Manuring should not be done at random, but to suit what crop is to be grown, changing the ground as much as possible. Though some can with success grow crops on the same soil many seasons in succession, yet it is not the most economical method of turning the garden to account. Change of crop, when done systematically, does much to save manure, and systematic arrangement saves labour. Where there is variety of soil in the garden and sheltered positions, they should be selected to suit the early crops which are likely to be got in during this month and next. We do not advise much sowing very early where there is not proper means to give protection.

Soil for Onions, Parsnips, and early Cabbage, should be well exposed and deeply worked to get it well sweetened. Beans and Peas may be sown on sheltered borders to succeed those sown in autumn; but when turves, boxes, or pots are used, the trouble of sowing, protecting, etc, in the open ground may be abandoned. Now is a good time to sow for planting out; but no heat by artificial means should be given, as the plants would become drawn up, weakly, and unfit for planting. Peas in pots for supplies under glass should have plenty of light' and air. Look after slugs, and destroy them. Chopped furze placed over seed before the surfacing of earth keeps mice and rats in check; and we think the Peas are benefited by its keeping the surface open. Bed-lead does much to keep vermin in check. An extensive nursery-grower lately told vis that they never recpuired the aid of nets to keep birds from their Coniferae and other seeds since they took to using red-lead. Protect Peas with evergreen branches. Those coming through the soil may have old mushroom-dung, leaf-mould, or wood-ashes placed over the tops for protection. The earth drawn up answers well. Get good stores of Jerusalem Artichokes, Parsnips, etc., under cover before the ground is frozen over.

Broccoli and Celery may be taken in for supplies when snow or severe frost prevails. Better to lift Broccoli when small than lose it by frost. When work cannot be done in the ground, Onions may be looked over, also Carrot, Beet, and all stores under cover. Potatoes should have extra attention, as in very many places the whole stock for seed is destroyed by disease. All seeds in stock may be proved by sowing a pinch of each in small pots, and if placed in heat they will soon vegetate and their true value can be easily ascertained. We frequently repeat this advice, as many new beginners are under the impression that new seeds of all kinds have to be purchased annually. Worthless seeds should be destroyed at once, as accidents may occur and give disappointment. Early Carrots, Radishes, double-bladed Onions, for salads, may be sown in mild heat, and when they vegetate, air and light must be given, closing the structures entirely against frost and wet. Potatoes may be planted in pits: heat must not be strong, as a close warm atmosphere would soon ruin the crop. If the tubers are sprung a little before planting they will be all the better. Keep up regular supplies of French Beans by sowing a few every fortnight or oftener. Mushroom-beds are better when made up frequently.

Asparagus, Seakale, Rhubarb, and Chicory may also be taken in frequently in smaller quantities when regular supplies are wanted. Look well after slugs and other depredators among early vegetables. Seed orders will now be under consideration. We would say to the inexperienced, do not be led away by great "bargains," which are realised in print only. Get seeds from men of known respectability, and economy is secure. M. T.