148 HOT-HOUSE OF REPOTTING, &C. [April. 



with them, and then it may be said, it is impossible to dis- 

 lodge them entirely. Clear off all decayed leaves from the 

 plants which will have made fresh shoots, and the decayed 

 leaves very much disfigure the whole collection. We 

 would not have repeated this observation if it was not an 

 essential point, and one which is so frequently neglected. 



OF REPOTTING PLANTS. 



Many of the young plants that are growing freely, and 

 where they may be desired to grow to a large size, should 

 be frequently repotted to encourage their growth. Ges- 

 neria, Gloxinia, and others previously mentioned, must 

 have larger pots, as they require it. Flowering bulbs of 

 Amaryllis may be brought into the heat to make them 

 bloom early ; before they begin to grow, divest them of the 

 old soil and put them into fresh: this is particularly neces- 

 sary, when the bulbs are already in large pots. By thus 

 renewing the soil, the pots can be used much smaller : they 

 require plenty of drainage in the pot, and agree best with 

 (soil No. 12). 



Where plants of the dwarf Musas are intended to be 

 grown for fruiting, they must have particular attention in 

 repotting as they grow ; about the first of the month will be 

 a proper time to begin : copious waterings are daily required 

 when they are in a growing state. Their soil is No. 12, 

 with one portion more manure. For farther detail, see 

 May. 



APRIL. 



WHERE the hot-house has been properly conducted, the 

 plants generally will have a vigorous and healthful aspect. 

 An error frequently arises in the conducting of these de- 

 partments, by inexperienced operators being ambitious -of 

 outstripping their competitors. They keep the house in a 

 very high temperature, and admit little or no air. Where 



