CHAPTER IX 



The Malmaison Carnation 



This beautiful flower is cultivated in most private 

 establishments in European countries, where it is an 

 important subject. In America, however, it is much 

 neglected and but seldom seen. The usual time of flower- 

 ing is from June to August. It is possible, however, to 

 have it in bloom much earlier, but it is a difficult and 

 risky practice, often resulting in the loss of many plants 

 and weakening the constitution of the remainder. The 

 English " Garden Manual " says that the proper and best 

 time to propagate is in July and August, or as soon as the 

 plants have passed out of flower. If the growths are soft, 

 caused by shading heavily, stand the plants outside for a 

 few days before commencing to layer. An ordinary cold- 

 frame should be chosen for this operation, not too deep, 

 with an ordinary soil bottom. Violet frames are very 

 suitable for this purpose. Cover the surface with about 

 3 in. of finely sifted loam, leaf mold and sand, and make 

 it moderately firm. Choose good, healthy plants, and 

 strip them of the foliage so as to leave the intended layer 

 about 5 in. long. Knock the plants out of their pots and 

 plunge them in the frame; the layering process can then 

 easily be carried out. Keep the frame closed for a few days, 

 and shade the plants from strong sunshine. It will take 

 about three weeks to a month to root, after which air 

 should be freely admitted. 



A few days before potting it will be found very bene- 



