FLOWERING PLANTS 55 
and at the same time not destroy its natural grace- 
fulness of form, as is usually done when it is tied 
up stiffly to a wooden stake. If tied carefully to an 
inconspicuous green stake by means of green twine 
this may be accomplished. A better way will be 
to use one of the stakes described on page 144. 
Fuchsias are shade plants. The full direct sun- 
light is likely to prove fatal to their existence. In 
winter they may be kept in an east or north win- 
dow, or on the inside of other plants in a south win- 
dow. If they are wanted to bloom early in the fall 
keep well pinched back and disbudded during the 
summer which is the natural blooming season for 
all the best varieties. For summer blooming, dry 
off gradually in the fall and keep during the win- 
ter — until February or March —in a frost-proof 
room or cellar. After they have been brought into 
the light, repot and water and new growth will 
start. Prune back the old branches severely, as the 
next crop of flowers will be borne on the new wood. 
This is also a good time to start cuttings for a new 
supply of plants. 
Old plants — two or three years — will, however, 
give a far greater abundance of flowers. 
The most serious enemy of the fuchsia indoors is 
the pernicious red spider. For details of the proper 
reception to be given him see page 134. 
The varieties of the fuchsia, in both single and 
double flowers, are many. Among popular sorts 
