PREFACE 



SINCE this book was completed in October, 1916, the 

 question of food production has become one of national 

 importance, and it did not seem right to publish it without 

 some reference to the culture of vegetables. The last 

 two chapters have therefore been added to meet the 

 special circumstances of the time. Although thirty deal 

 with flower growing, and only two with vegetables, it 

 must be remembered that much of the work described 

 under soils and manures holds good alike for flowers and 

 vegetables. 



Even in War-time, when food is so important, I am 

 convinced that we can hardly do without flowers, for they 

 can do so much to brighten up the hours, days, and weeks 

 which might otherwise to many of us be full of gloom, 

 and, maybe, sorrow. Who will deny that flowers cheer 

 us and help us through our difficulties ? So it really needs 

 little apology for bringing out the work at the present 

 time. It may be criticised in some of its details, and I 

 hope critics will not " spare my feelings," if they feel it 

 their duty to pull it to pieces. I am, happily, used to 

 criticism ; some years of writing for the Press enable me 

 to enjoy it. Any practical suggestions for making the 

 book more generally useful to amateurs will be most 

 welcome, and my Publishers have kindly undertaken to 

 forward letters to me. 



T cannot let this book appear without a few words of 

 thanks. I have specially to thank my brother, Mr. Edward 

 Ellis, for the interest he has taken in it ; Mr. Lucas for 

 his assistance and advice on several details ; and my 

 Publishers for their valuable suggestions during its progress 

 through the Press. 



March, 1917. 



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