106 THE CARNATION MANUAL. 



JULY. 



This and the early part of next month is the 

 florist's paradise. The plants should be placed 

 under cover without delay. "Watch carefully for 

 green-fly, and brush off all that can be seen on 

 the bud. Many a flne bloom has been spoilt 

 by these pests getting under the points of the 

 calyx, where they are very difficult to dislodge. 

 Where it is seen that the layers are ripe enough, 

 they should be promptly put down, as they become 

 very hard if left too long. The plants Avill be 

 taking a great deal of water now, but still it must 

 not be overdone. 



AUGUST. 



As the plants go out of bloom they should be 

 placed out of doors. It is not well to layer directly 

 after removing them from their blooming-quarters 

 under glass, as the grass has become soft, and 

 requires a few days' exposure to the air before it is 

 done. All layering should be finished by the third 

 Aveek if possible. Layering is the most important 

 operation of the whole year, and it is necessary it 

 should be done early for the production of fine 

 plants for next year's growth. Careful watering 

 "will be needed when the plants are layered, and 

 they should not be allowed to become dust-dry, or 

 the emission of roots will be impossible. The 

 latter part of the month will be a quiet time, and 

 oj)portunity should be taken to put awaj^ the 



