HARD-WOODED PLANTS 25 



that enable us to cope with the enemies to plant life by 

 safer and more effective methods than any that were 

 formerly in vogue, and there is now but little excuse 

 for dirty and insect-ridden plants. 



When ventilation has been insufficient and the outer 

 atmosphere foggy, Mildew becomes a great enemy to 

 many hard-wooded plants, notably to Heaths, and as it is 

 very insidious in its attacks it should be carefully looked 

 for. A speck or two of decay among the tiny leaves 

 of Heaths, or a white mould on larger leaved things 

 will, if unchecked, soon develop alarming proportions. 

 Directly such signs are seen, the plants, and especially 

 the affected parts, should be dusted freely with Flowers of 

 Sulphur, which is an effective antidote to Mildews. A 

 sulphur duster or puff should always be at hand in the 

 greenhouse, and its use never put off when required. 



Hard-wooded plants are but rarely propagated in 

 private places. Nurserymen have greater conveniences 

 for this work and can carry it out in bulk, so that each 

 batch of cuttings or seedlings may get exactly what is 

 needed at all times. As this is not possible in a private 

 place and as the process of raising these plants is a slow 

 one in any case, it is always best to commence by buying 

 established plants of fair size which will give a quick 

 return in the way of flowers. Buying them when in 

 flower is not, however, the best way. They should 

 be bought long enough before flowering to get 

 acclimatised in their new home. 



