Liftinj^ and Plantin,!4 Carnations from the Field 



packing of the soil about the roots and neck. Carnation soil should he at all 

 times in just a nicely moistened condition ; that is to say, there should be 

 sufficient moisture in the soil to keep the plants plump, and in vigorous grow- 

 ing condition; but there should never be an excess of water to drown out 

 the soil or to cause it to become sodden or sour. In order to get the best 

 possible results, what might be termed the sanitary condition of the soil 

 should be thoroughl}' looked after and maintained. 



Sett in <^ Carnation Plants on tJic Bencli 



Shading the Carnation Houses Before Planting 



One of the necessary preliminary steps in lifting and planting in is 

 shading, as it is desirable to protect the freshly planted plants from the rays 

 of the sun until they have had time to strike root and commence growth ; 

 otherwise the plants will be seriously checked by wilting. A too dense shade, 

 however, is not desirable, as that has a tendency to soften the plant and to 

 cause it to receive an additional check when the shade is removed. Prob- 

 ably the best shade is one that can be easily removed during the dark weather, 

 as the shade should not be kept on too long. When the weather is cloudy, 

 antl the sun is not shininsr. no shade will be neccssar\- : but as soon as the sun 



109 



