94 FLORAL OPERATIONS FOR THE MONTH. 
Pinxs.—If beds of them were not made in autumn, and omitted too 
last month, they ought to be done immediately, if required to bloom 
the coming season. A loamy soil, made of turfs a few inches thick, 
and well rotted, with an equal portion of old decayed cow-dung, is 
admirably adapted for their growth. It should be nine inches deep, 
and have a good drainage below. ‘The plants must be removed with 
as much of the ball of soil as possible, and be planted six inches apart. 
High raised beds are not beneficial except in low wet situations. 
Where a compost, as above, is not at hand, six inches thick of old cow- 
dung should be dug in with common garden soil. Protection from 
cold winds is necessary ; this is readily done by a hedge of fir, yew, 
broom, or furze branches. Autumn-planted beds should be top- 
dressed with a little rich soil, and the plants be made firm in their 
places; a few small sticks stuck around amongst the shoots will prevent 
twisting off. 
RanuncuLuses and ANEMoNES.—When the plants make their 
appearance, and are risen an inch or two high, care must be paid to 
have the soil pressed closely around them with the hands, stopping up 
any holes made by worms, &e. A top dressing too of rich compost, 
free from wire-worm, is very beneficial. If common large worms exist 
in the bed, they may be collected by the hand at night, or pure lime- 
water poured between the rows will kill the worms, and not injure the 
plants. If allowed to remain, they are very injurious. Often stir up 
the soil between the rows. Showers of rain are very beneficial for 
their growth; if none fall, occasional watering with soft water in the 
morning should be given. Well-water is injurious. Weak manure- 
water occasionally poured between the plants contributes to vigour. 
Tf severe frost should occur, cover at night, and protect from wind. 
Tuxips.—Stir the surface of the bed an inch deep. Protect from 
hail, rrost, and strong wind, also from the mid-day sun, say from ten 
till four o’clock. A hooped framework to support a canvass cover is 
essential to proper protection, and so fixed as to be readily removed, or 
put over when danger is apprehended. Keep the soil firm around the 
stem, and mind that water does not lodge in the heart of the plant 
where the infant flower is, or it will be damaged; gently open the 
leaves to admit the water to drain off. 
Carnations and Picorrees.—If not potted off the end of last month, 
they should be done immediately. 
Hyacintus should be protected from frost, sun, and wind; secure 
by tying to proper supports. Stir up the surface soil. 
Pansies in beds must have the soil pressed around the plants, and a 
top dressing of rich soil an inch or two thick will be beneficial. New 
beds of them should also be planted. 
CurysANTHEMUMS.—Procure pieces of the shortest of the young 
shoots from the base of the old stems, with as much root as practicable ; 
pot them in very small pots, and place them on a gentle bottom heat 
till they are well rooted; then gradually harden them, and pot them 
on during the summer, according to the size the plants are required. 
You may do this as soon as you please. If tiere are not short pieces, 
take off the tops of the shoots and plant them as cuttings. 
Rosrs,—Now plant out the tender China and Tea, or Bourbons, &c. 
