2 4 The Canadian Horticulturist. 



THE CULTIVATION AND MANAGEMENT OF HOUSE 



PLANTS. 



^HE cultivation of flowers is an occupation that improves alike 

 the body, mind and heart. It is an almost certain indication of 

 purity and refinement. We can afford to cultivate and 

 study flowers, if for no other reason than their cheerful 

 surrounding. Many do without flowers because they think 

 they cost too much time and trouble, but all things worth 

 having cost considerable and anything worth having is 

 worth working for. Oftentimes the partial success, or in 

 many instances, total failure in the cultivation of flowers is 

 due to the fact that we try to do too much. No one should have more plants 

 than one can fairly manage or take care of ; too often do we see many plants 

 crowded together in a poorly lighted window, compelling each plant to take on 

 a form never intended by nature, and foliage quite different from that desired 

 by the owner. One of the chief requisites in the management of house plants 

 is plenty of sunshine, next an atmosphere neither too dry nor close, and a 

 uniform temperature, lower during the night than during the day. As the days 

 become longer and brighter, more room between the plants must be given ; for 

 nothing detracts more from the appearance of plants than standing too close 

 when growing rapidly. More careful attention should also be given to proper 

 ventilation on all suitable occasions. This is absolutely necessary to the health 

 of plants. 



With regard to the soil best adapted for pot culture : Soil for pot plants 

 should always be carefully prepared. For this there is no better foundation 

 than well decayed turf that is full of root fibres. Many plants would need 

 nothing more ; strong feeders should have manure added. Perhaps the soil 

 that will best suit the majority is two parts decayed turf to one part of well 

 rotted manure and one part sand, which will make a soil that will not bake. 



Watering. — Rain water is better than spring or well water. Hard water 

 maybe greatly improved by adding a drop or too of ammonia, or a little soda, a 

 small piece about the size of a pea to every gallon of water used. Morning is 

 the best time to give water, and evening next. Never water house plants when 

 the sun is shining brightly on them. The supply of water must be regulated 

 according to the demands of the plants. Apply when needed ; but never in 

 excess. The condition of plants and soil is the best guide. Never give water 

 when the soil is moist to the touch. The leaves of all large-leaved plants should 

 be thoroughly sponged off at least once a week with tepid water. This tends 

 to keep the plants in health and free from dust. Nearly all plants require more 

 water when in bloom than at any other time, more in a warm temperature than 

 in a cold, and more when in a state of active growth than when at rest. Plants 



