Beta maritima.

The Sea-beet is a hardy, perennial plant. The roots are not eaten; but the leaves, for which it is cultivated, are an excellent substitute for Spinach, and are even preferred by many to that delicate vegetable. If planted in good soil, it will continue to supply the table with leaves for many years. The readiest method of increasing the plants is by seeds; but they may be multiplied to a small extent by dividing the roots.

The early-produced leaves are the best, and these are fit for use from May until the plants begin to run to flower; but they may be continued in perfection through the whole summer and autumn by cutting off the flower-stems as they arise, and thus preventing the blossoming.

There are two varieties:--

ENGLISH SEA-BEET.

The English Sea-beet is a dwarfish, spreading or trailing plant, with numerous angular, leafy branches. The lower leaves are ovate, three or four inches in length, dark-green, waved on the margin, and of thick, fleshy texture; the upper leaves are smaller, and nearly sessile.

Sow in April or May, in rows sixteen or eighteen inches apart, and an inch in depth; thin to twelve inches in the rows. The leaves should not be cut from seedling plants during the first season, or until the roots are well established.

IRISH SEA-BEET.

This differs from the preceding variety in the greater size of its leaves, which are also of a paler green: the stems are not so numerous, and it appears to be earlier in running to flower. The

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