THE POLYANTHUS. T 1 



ARTICLE II. 



THE POLYANTHUS. 



FROM THE M. S. OF THE FLORIST'S COMPANION, BY MR. JOHN SLATER, FLORIST, 

 ALBION PLACE, LOWER BRODGHTON, NEAR MANCHESTER. 



No flower can more justly lay claim to the title of being beautiful 

 than the Polyanthus. Its varied tints, the richness of its colouring, 

 the grace and elegance of its form, agreeable fragrance, easy propa- 

 gation, hardy nature, and being one of Flora's earliest visitors, it is 

 welcomed with no ordinary feelings of satisfaction by every one who 

 possesses the least taste for flowers. To the industry and zealous 

 attention of the northern florists we are much indebted for the rapid 

 and progressive improvement it has made during the last few years. 



It is supposed to owe its origin from both the Primrose and the 

 Oxlip. 



The Polyanthus is grown to the greatest perfection in an airy 

 situation, yet sheltered from the rays of the sun, as its excessive heat 

 has a tendency to impair its strength. In the spring, it is necessary 

 to examine the plants and pots minutely early in the morning as well 

 as in the evening, to destroy all slugs and snails which may be found 

 upon them, as they are very great enemies to this plant. The Poly- 

 anthus has also another formidable enemy, although small; this is 

 the acarus, or red spider. When the plants are infected with this 

 destructive insect, the leaves become yellow and spotted. The best 

 remedy is, to remove the infected plant immediately from your col- 

 lection, and place it in a more distant situation, and soak it in u strong 

 infusion of tobacco-water. A sprinkling of quick lime upon the 

 plants has been found beneficial and effectual. 



The young florist is recommended to select his plants in bloom. 



The Polyanthus grows best in a light sandy soil, and some florists 

 add peat when a yellow sandy soil cannot be got. The following 

 compost will grow them well : — 

 1 peck light yellow loam, 

 1 , , sand, 

 l£ , , cow dung, 



to be at least two years old, 

 1* , , horse ditto, 



l£ ,, leaf mould. 



