72 



THE FLORIST. 



three or four o'clock, according to circumstances, shutting out all 

 cold easterly winds. Draw the syringe over the plants once or twice 

 a week after shutting up with plenty of sunlight and warmth. The 

 May plants will be fast shewing their trusses. When the plants 

 require water, give them sufficient to moisten the whole ball. 



Pinks. Protection must be continued through this month. 

 Earthing-up is a great security against wind. Seed may be sown 

 about the middle of the month in any light and sweet soil ; if com- 

 posed of a little leaf-mould, it will be all the better ; sift a little 

 rather fine for the surface. By placing the pots or boxes in a western 

 aspect, much trouble in shading will be saved, and the seed will 

 germinate equally well. Cover with a flat sheet of glass or a hand- 

 light, and be sure to keep the soil moist. 



Polyanthuses are not so liable to injury by rain as Auriculas ; 

 let them have showers more frequently until the pips begin to ex- 

 pand. Shelter and protect as for Auriculas. Due attention to 

 watering must be observed ; the soil should be well moistened. 

 Earth-up Polyanthuses in borders, if not already done. Carefully 

 mark all seedlings that possess any claim to perfection, either as 

 show or seedling varieties, and discard at once all of inferior stamp ; 

 by this precaution you will improve the strain. 



Ranunculuses. Plant any out of the ground immediately ; the 

 roots planted in the middle of last month should be looked over. 



Roses in Pots. Give abundance of air when the weather is 

 favourable. If plants are required for exhibition, or a display in 

 June, they should be pruned about the second week of this month. 





