THE HEATH HOUSE. 151 
no month in the whole year when the Heath may not 
be had in flower, nor is there a colour, or shade of 
colour that it does not display. There is, moreover, no 
class of plants capable of assuming such symmetrical 
and elegant proportions as this, combined with the 
most beautiful inflorescence, and in such abundance. 
It is rather curious that the natural distribution of 
some Heaths seems so different compared with others. 
The greater part come from South Africa, but they 
also seem to extend to the north of Europe; whilst 
but few, or none, are found in either the east or west. 
The culture of the Heath is easy enough, yet we 
find very few persons who grow them. The London 
growers, however, are noted for the rapid propagation 
and commercial uses of this family, and it is quite 
astonishing how soon these market nurserymen will 
produce Heaths fit for sale. A few remarks with refer- 
ence to the way in which it is done may be of some use 
here. About the beginning or middle of February the 
young and healthy plants of sorts intended to be pro- 
pagated are introduced into a house where the average 
heat is 53° Fahr. but not more. The plants are placed 
near the glass, a low structure being best suited for 
them, and very soon they give an abundance of young 
growth ; as soon as the young growth has made half an 
inch, or not more than an inch of wood, take it off 
with a sharp and fine-edged penknife with a slight 
heel of wood at the base. Cut this base smooth, and 
have pots three inches in diameter filled with fine and 
pure peat. 
Now let me remind the reader that bog-earth must 
not be used, nor any black soil; to ensure good suc- 
cess in Heath growing none but pure peat is to be used. 
