THE AZALEA AND 



edge as to the plant's habits and requirements. 



Almost invariably failure results from the 

 treatment given immediately after the flower- 

 ing-period. The Azalea has an annual season 

 of growth. This comes on as soon as the plant 

 has developed its yearly crop of flowers. At 

 this period it is very important that consider- 

 able warmth should be given, and it should be 

 showered daily, heat and moisture combining 

 to bring about the desired result. If neglected 

 at this time — as it generally is — growth will be 

 defective, and a poor foundation be secured 

 for flowers in the coming season. Success in 

 the culture of this plant depends largely, as I 

 have said, on the treatment the plant receives 

 at this period. 



As soon as flowering is over remove the 

 plant to a place several degrees warmer than 

 that in which it has been kept while in bloom. 

 Begin the shower-bath practice at once. Apply 

 water in the morning, while the temperature 

 is rising, and see that the sun does not shine 

 on the plant until it is dry. Be very careful 

 about watering. The Azalea has roots finer 

 than the finest thread, and these are produced 

 in such quantities that they form a thick mass 

 in the center of the pot, through which water 



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