In 1907 the State gave one place free to daughters of farmers. “Blekinge hushållningssållśkap” gave three places to daughters of farmers from Blekinge.
The school is situated at Agdatorp farm, in Nettraby, about 12 km. from Karlskrona. The term commences on April 1st and lasts until October 31st. Applications must be sent in before March 15th to Fr. J. Schmidt.
Since the college was founded 79 students have passed out. Of this number only eight have taken posts. The usual salary is from 15 kr. per month, board and lodging being provided. Some of the students have completed their training at other colleges, others pursue the interest of gardening in their own homes. It is clear that the salary mentioned is that of an under gardener, for the salary of a head gardener in Sweden varies from 300 kr. to 800 kr., with board and lodging; it is also usual to give a percentage upon the sales in the garden. Most of the women who study for gardening in Sweden do so in order to direct their own gardens. Many go through a course of training in a market garden, and some have been educated in colleges in other countries.
ESPENÄS SCHOOL FOR LADY GARDENERS
Postal Address: Lännäs. Railway Stations: Kilsmo, Sköllersta, and Wingaker. Steamboat Pier: Hampetorp. Steamer: “Gustav Lagerbjelde.”
Espenäs is beautifully situated close to the Lake “Store Hjälmaren.”
The school was founded in 1899. The term commences on April 15th and ends on October 15th. The teaching is both practical and theoretical.
The subjects taught are: General gardening, kitchen gardening, flowers for beds and borders; the care of hot-houses and frames, glazing, painting, making mats, preparation of frames, sowing, watering, etc. The cultivation of delicate vegetables and fruits such as asparagus, tomatoes, artichokes, cucumbers, melons and strawberries; climbing plants, grapes, and roses; fruit trees and berries; preparation of soil and manure; tying up plants; book-keeping as applied to gardening; the Weck method of preserving vegetables, fruit and berries; making fruit syrups, jellies, marmalade, fruit wines and pickles; drying fruit, berries, and vegetables. Optional—looking after poultry.
The conditions for entering the school are, that it is necessary to have passed through an elementary school, or to have had similar education. A testimonial from a clergyman or a doctor is required, as well as a photograph of the proposed student.
Payment in advance upon April 15th, 125 kr. (£7) for the whole term. For board and lodgings, all found, 65 kr. per month, to be paid on April 15th and July 15th. Soap, candles, linen, and bedding are provided by the students. A piano is in the house. There are good roads for cycling, and excellent bathing. Apply to Stina Swartling, née von Hofsten.