As previously stated (202), some plants, as melons, cucumbers, beans and sweet corn, are difficult to transplant because they contain so few fibrous rootlets. It is often an advantage, however, to start them under glass, but their root systems must not be disturbed to any great extent. This may be accomplished by the use of earthen or paper pots, sods, berry baskets, paper oyster buckets and dirt bands. Earthen pots are highly satisfactory, but are expensive when used in large numbers. Paper pots are becoming popular, and may be made with little expense. Figure 43 shows some pots and the necessary equipment for making them. The operation is very simple. A rectangular strip of paper of the proper size to make the pots desired is folded around a square block bolted through the center to a table. The paper is folded in and clinched in the center with a single upholstering tack driven over the end of the bolt. When planting in the field the paper should always be removed to prevent interference with root development. Melons and cucumbers are often planted on sods. Berry baskets and veneered 4-inch dirt bands, folded into squares, are very useful for starting the above plants.

Fig. 43. paper pots and equipment for making them.