36 



ON THE CULTURE OF ANNUAL FLOWERS 



into the soil, by using a piece of circular formed wood, or the bottom 

 of a garden-pot; this being done, as much fine sifted soil is spread over 

 the seed as will cover the smallest about an eighth of an inch, and the 

 larger deeper in proportion, gently pressing the surface, which induces 

 a more certain and quick germination. If the weather be showery, or 

 the ground at the surface be moist, till the seeds vegetate and the 

 plants appear, no other means need be employed ; but if the season be 

 dry, as soon as the seed is sown, a garden-pot, common tile, or draining 

 tile, placed over it for a week or so, will prevent the sun and air from 

 damaging the seed. If the seed be once rendered soft by moisture, and 

 then allowed to become dry, its vitality is thus destroyed. This is the 

 reason so many failures occur, and not, as is generally the complaint, 

 through the seed being defective when sown. When a small garden 

 has to be supplied, a few patches of seed may be sown in small pots, 

 be raised in a gentle warmth in a room, frame, &c., and then be turned 

 out with entire balls at the proper period, when the plants are strong 

 enough. When a patch of plants is crowded they must be carefully 

 thinned, so as to leave only as many as will form a vigorous supply. 



The following list contains the best hardy Annuals of each class of 

 colours : — 



