80 BRECK'S NEW BOOK OF FLOWERS. 



larger pot. At the top of a large pot, an inch, and of a small 

 one, half an inch, should be left for the reception of wa- 

 ter, without danger of overflow. A little gravel, charcoal, 

 or pieces of broken pots should always be placed at the 

 bottom for drainage. 



A plant newly potted must never be exposed to a 

 strong sun. It should be watered and placed in the shade 

 immediately, and there remain till it is rooted, which may 

 be known by its starting to grow. 



Plants are frequently destroyed by re-potting, merely 

 from the careless manner in which it is done. Where the 

 roots spread, plenty of room should be left open, a little 

 hillock made in the centre of the pot, and the plant be- 

 ing placed thereon, the roots should be distributed around 

 it in a regular manner, observing that they are not 

 twisted or turned up at the ends. The earth should then 

 be filled in, a little at a time, and the pot gently shaken 

 to settle the earth to the roots all the way down. When 

 filled, it should be pressed down with the hand. It is 

 very common to fill in the earth at once, and press it hard 

 down, which not only wounds the tender fibres, but often 

 leaves a hollow space around the lower roots, and de- 

 prives them of their proper nourishment. But the thing 

 most necessary to be observed is, that the roots be allowed 

 their natural course. 



All plants should be kept clear of weeds, not for neat- 

 ness alone, but because these exhaust the nutriment which 

 should feed the plant. 



WATER. 



The best water for plants is undoubtedly rain water ; 

 if this cannot be obtained, river water will do, pond wa- 

 ter is not so good ; but worst of all is hard spring water. 

 In winter, and for delicate plants, even in summer, water 

 should be placed in the sun until it becomes tepid before 

 it is used. 



