_Of the Soil and Situation most proper for raising the Plant._
The best ground for raising the plant is a warm, kindly, rich soil,
that is not subject to be over-run with weeds; for from these it must
be totally cleared. The soil in which it grows in its native climate,
Virginia, is inclining to sandy, consequently warm and light; the
nearer therefore the nature of the land in which it is planted in
England approaches to that, the greater probability there is of its
flourishing here. Other kinds of soils may probably be brought to
suit it, by a mixture with some attenuating species of manure, but
a knowledge of this must be the result of repeated trials. It must
however be remembered, that whatever manure is added to the soil must
be thoroughly incorporated with it.
The situation most preferable for a plantation is the southern
declivity of a hill, rather gradual than abrupt; or a spot that is
sheltered by a wall, a bank, or any other means, from the blighting
north winds which so frequently blow, during the spring months,
in this island: but at the same time it is necessary to observe,
that the plants must enjoy a free current of air; for if that be
obstructed they will not prosper.