This bulletin describes the uses of hotbeds and coldframes in starting early plants. The hotbeds discussed include manure hotbeds, fuel-heated beds, and electric heating in beds and greenhouses. Coverings and care and maintenance are also discussed. Possible plants for early growth include tomatoes, peppers, eggplants, squashes, cucumbers, muskmelons, lettuce, cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, and celery.

"This bulletin tells about growing figs in the South Atlantic and Gulf States and protecting the figs from diseases and insects; it discusses the varieties commonly grown, and suggests methods of making the fruit into desirable products for the table." -- p. ii

"Fruits and vegetables will naturally form an important part of the diet of families undertaking subsistence farming as a means of supplementing their food supplies and occupying their spare time. The supply of fruits and vegetables in most cases will be produced by methods differing more or less from those employed in regular farm gardens. This bulletin has been prepared with the limitations clearly in mind, under which the average subsistence homesteader is working, and includes brief cultural directions for about 20 of the most important garden vegetables, 5 of the small fruits, and 5 of the standard or tree fruits. The information contained herein applies mainly to climatic and other conditions prevailing in the Northern and Eastern States; the bulletin is not intended for distribution in the Cotton States, the Great Plains area, or the Pacific coast region." -- p. 1