TttE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY OF NEW YORK 



Green plants and seedlings may be set next the stake with 

 a depression of two or three inches, to be filled in as they grow. 

 This deep planting is to ensure deep root growth, in order 

 that they may not dry out during the summer weather. 



When the plants reach a height of about eighteen inches, 

 tie loosely to the stake with soft cord or strips of rags. Allow 

 for the swelling of the stem which in two months becomes from 

 four to six inches in circumference. Tie again as they show 

 need of support, but never allow the leaves to be choked up bv 

 the string. 



Dahlias need constant cultivation. When the plants are 

 young and tubers have not formed, the fork may go in deeply, 

 but later this is unnecessary, and also dangerous. The fork 

 might injure the root by contact, or loosen the soil so that the 

 air would reach it, and dry it out. The top soil must, however, 

 be constantly stirred, to keep out the weeds and to keep in the 

 precious moisture. In dry weather the roots should get a thor- 

 ough soaking once a week. Turn on the fountain spray for 

 two or three hours in one pkice. This is Nature's rain. As 

 soon as the soil is workable after such a soaking, stir the top 

 to save it from evaporation. Never allow anyone to stand 

 pointing a hose at various parts of the garden just wetting the 

 soil on top. This draws the growth to the surface, only to be 

 dried out if not repeated constantly. 



Do not allow more than one main trunk to each plant. If 

 secondary shoots appear from the tuber, they may be detached, 

 and if valuable can be potted, and another plant soon made. 

 Main branches should number from six to ten, according to 

 the variety. If more than that appear, cut or break off one 

 branch from each pair. When the main branches re-branch, 

 remove every other one, leaving the branches which would 

 naturally grow outward. This is the basis of pruning, and 

 may be applied to dahlias as well as roses or fruit trees. It 

 allows the air to circulate among the leaves, and all the vigor 

 of the extra branches to develop those that are left. 



Few beginners have sufficient courage when it is time to dis- 

 bud. The secondary branches are destined to bear the largest 

 blooms. Usually three flower buds appear on the end of the 



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