38 CARNATIONS AND PINKS 



Picotee to perfection.) Therefore let there be two 

 layers in a y^-inch pot, and for two of the strongest 

 layers 8^-inch size. The potting soil is of considerable 

 importance. I use one of four parts good fibrous 

 yellow loam, one of decayed stable manure, and one 

 of leaf-mould. The best material to keep the com- 

 post open is ground oyster shells. These may be 

 obtained ready grounded or pounded or ground up. 

 See that the soil is free from wireworms, as one of 

 these pests may kill both plants. Pot firmly, and 

 place the plants in frames, or they may be transferred 

 out of doors if the work is done in late March. Sticks 

 must be put to the plants early in May or even late 

 in April, and in June place them under glass, 

 fumigating at once to destroy thrips. 



