SHADING THE BLOSSOMS 91 



a good rule for growers to observe. Many growers also 

 shade the tops of their plants but we have found that if 

 the top wire on either side of the rows be adjusted near 

 to the crown of the plant, adequate protection is in this 

 way afforded. 



Where only a few plants need protection, Archangel 

 mats, scrim canvas, old curtains and newspapers, may be 

 requisitioned, and these answer the purpose very well 

 indeed. Should the tiffany be of a very flimsy kind it 

 should be doubled for the purpose of shading. 



Assuming the object the grower has in view is that 

 of exhibiting Sweet Peas, it is well he should understand 

 how long before the exhibition takes place it is necessary 

 for him to commence shading the flowers. This is an 

 important factor in successful culture, as it not desirable 

 to shade the plants too long. In a normal season, about 

 four days will suffice, although a day or two longer will 

 not matter much, provided the tiffany be drawn back in 

 the evenings and replaced before breakfast on the suc- 

 ceeding morning. 



