STIMULANTS 39 



good quality bonemeal mixed with sifted loam, others 

 use one or other of the various manures manufactured 

 expressly for Chrysanthemums. One top-dressing should 

 be sufficient to carry them through, and, as in all matters 

 of this kind, some care will be needed as to how it is 

 applied. If put on too strong it will tend to burn the 

 roots near the surface, instead of acting beneficially. 

 Sulphate of ammonia is a grand aid, in careful hands, 

 when bloomy are commencing to expand, or a little 

 earlier. It gives depth to the colour of the petals, and 

 the flower a richer and purer tone. The safest time to 

 administer this chemical is when the bud is swelling, 

 and, preferably, use in a liquid form. Sometimes it is 

 sprinkled on the surface of the soil and watered in, but 

 the best plan to adopt is to dilute in water or weak 

 liquid manure. About an ounce dissolved in three to 

 four gallons of water is sufficient, and this should be 

 given not oftener than once a week. 



When the blooms are about half expanded, all 

 stimulants may cease ; to continue too long after this 

 might lead to disaster. 



Some chemicals, like sulphate of ammonia, vary a good 

 deal in strength, and it would be advisable to test it 

 rather under the stipulated quantity when first using. 



