148 PICTORIAL PRACTICAL CARNATION GROWING. 
Propagation may be effected in a variety of ways. The plants 
are easily raised from seed ; they may be propagated by division, 
and in the case of the more vigorous sorts, such as Anne Boleyn, 
they may even be layered, like Carnations. Perhaps, however, the 
commonest method of increasing them is by what are termed pipings, 
which are nothing more nor less than young growing shoots pulled 
out of their sockets with a sharp jerk. These may be inserted in 
sandy soil in the open ground, but it is wise to give them the 
protection of a bellglass, handlight, or glass covered box, if possible. 
June is a suitable month. They may be planted out for the winter, 
and make beautiful edgings to walks. 
If it is desired to get winter bloom of Mrs. Sinkins or some other 
favourite variety, sturdy tufts may be lifted and put into 5-inch pots 
about the end of September. After. a month or six weeks in a 
frame they may be put into the greenhouse and brought gently on 
into bloom. Hard forcing is a mistake. 
When young, bushy, floriferous plants of Pinks are so easily 
produced it is a pity to see old, straggling specimens so often. 
The Laced Pink is a beautiful old flower, but the development 
of the Carnation has almost crushed it out of existence. It has 
been completely overshadowed by its more imposing sister. A small 
selection of sorts has been given, and it may be said that they are 
not only pretty and sweet, but completely hardy. They are best 
propagated by pipings in June, and planted out in September. 
