v MANURES 81 
tages which I conceive to belong to manure in a liquid 
state. (1.) In the first place, it is plain that the 
roots of a Rose cannot take up anything except 
fluids: consequently, only those parts of solid 
manure which are soluble can be of any use as food, 
and therefore liquid manure can supply everything 
that solids can. (2.) Secondly, the problem is by 
this means solved of how to get fresh food to the 
roots without disturbing them. (3.) And lastly, the 
food can be given just when it is wanted, and with- 
held when it is not wanted. 
1. As to the first of these points, let the beginner 
not only remember himself, but also diligently im- 
press upon his assistant, that Roses drink but cannot 
eat. The ordinary labourer will not believe in the 
strength or virtue of a clear fluid—from perhaps a 
hazy comparison with his own beer, he distrusts any- 
thing that is not thick; and he will be careful to 
apply the dregs of the liquid manure cart or cask. 
“because that’s where all the good is.” It should 
be pointed out to him that what cannot be dissolved 
in water cannot be assimilated by the Rose, and he 
should be told not to put on the dregs, which may 
sometimes do harm. Of course time, chemical 
changes, and the power of the earth bacteria may 
and do eventually dissolve materials which remain 
solid in ordinary water; but liquid manure is as a 
rule for present immediate use, and therein les one 
of its great advantages. 
2. By liquid manure we can reach all the roots at 
once without disturbing them at the actual time of 
their most vigorous growth ; and we can supply the 
Rose with what it wants, soil thoroughly stored 
with food ready cooked as it were for immediate 
G 
