PROPAGATION 



form such a callus. But when the cutting is in 

 proper condition it will generally form roots in 

 a week or ten days, according to the nature of 

 the plant, if all other conditions are favorable. 

 Cuttings should be about three inches long. 

 All but the two upper leaves should be cut off 

 close to the stalk. These leaves should be 

 left to keep up the circulation in the branch, 

 until roots form. While cuttings will root in 

 almost any kind of soil, I prefer the sand- 

 method to all others. Any shallow box or pan 

 will answer your purpose. Put about two 

 inches of clean, sharp sand in it, and apply 

 water enough to make it moist all through — 

 really wet, — but not so much so that water 

 will stand at the bottom. Insert your cuttings 

 in the sand at least half their length. Pinch it 

 firmly about their base. This is all it will be 

 necessary to do, so far as planting is concerned, 

 but constant attention must be given until 

 roots have formed. Care must be taken to 

 keep the sand as evenly moist as possible. If 

 you neglect to apply water until the sand be- 

 comes dry, the probabilities are that your cut- 

 tings are ruined. Therefore look to the cut- 

 ting-box or pan several times a day, and be 

 sure that it never lacks moisture. 



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