io6 



THE CULTURE OF POT-PLANTS 



during the growing period, but not towards the end of it, as 

 they might then cause growth at a time when it ought to be 

 ripening. 



There are no plants more easily propagated than succu- 

 lents. Owing to the internal stores of food and water which 

 they contain, almost every piece inserted in fairly dry, sandy 



A small cutting tied to a stick to 

 hold it firmly in the soil. 



A grafted plant. 



Fig. 43. — Propagation of Cacti. 



soil will live and root. The cuttings should, however, first 

 be laid on a shelf for a day or two to dry a little, as a good 

 deal of sap exudes from the wounds where they are taken off, 

 and the excessive moisture may set up decay. Any cutting 

 that is very small should be tied with raffia to a short stick, 

 which, when pushed into the soil, will hold it firmly in position. 

 Grafting is another method of propagation. Many species 

 also produce offsets, and these can be potted separately in 

 spring. 



Some of the most important succulents are as follows : — - 



