A VALLEY OF GLASS. - Among farming institutes none has
more wisely and fruitfully turned its attention to local concerns than " Oaklands" which is found in the grounds of an old country house between St. Albans and Hatfield. Hertfordshire is the hub of the glass-house industry. For some reason (more accidental perhaps -than essential) the valley of the Lea has become a valley of glass ; and I am assured by a horticultural expert, who has every means for acquiring a general know- ledge of the district, that the glass-covered acres, which do not exceed 900, produce more value of produce than the whole of the rest of the county. Of course the profit and loss account is what matters to the farmer ; but it is of interest and of scientific importance to compare also gross yields. An acre of wheat may produce a gross sum of £12. An. acre of tomatoes under glass—under satisfactory but not abnormal conditions—will produce a gross £1,600. At present the first, in spite of the small outlay, loses money and the second makes it. The " glass gardeners " of Essex and Herts have made more profit under much less laborious conditions than any of the French gardeners or maralchers.
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