Notes on Greenhouse Plants, 6^c. 503 



themums, and wit\^hold Avater slightly from such of the 

 achimenes as indicate maturity by the bottom leaves chang- 

 ing color, 



October. — All the plants will require to be housed towards 

 the middle of the month. Previous to this, the house should 

 have a thorough cleansing in every part. The heating appa- 

 ratus should also be examined, and any necessary repairs or 

 alterations attended to. Hot water is now in general use for 

 increasing the temperature, but the old smoke flue is not to 

 be despised. In many instances it will still be preferred. Of 

 course, all the pots will be cleaned before they are placed on 

 the stage. The temperature will now be kept as low as pos- 

 sible to guard against exciting such plants as have completed 

 their growth. Water should be gradually diminished in 

 quantity to most things ; they will thus be enabled to with- 

 stand extremes of temperature with less injury, and prepare 

 them for a short resting season. Lift Scarlet geraniums, sal- 

 vias, Cuphea platycentra, &c., out of the flower garden, and 

 pot them. Cut in these plants rather close ; they will soon 

 establish a fresh supply of roots, and grow luxuriantly. Chry- 

 santhemums, not indicating an appearance of flower buds, 

 should be kept rather scant of water, Achimenes should not 

 be neglected immediately after they cease blooming ; keep 

 them warm and moist until the tubers are matured ; store 

 them in a dry, warm location all winter. 



November and December. — The house will now have a 

 wintry appearance, — not a bleak one, however. Camellias, 

 azaleas, epiphyllums, coronilla, primroses, and many other 

 things, will be coming into flower. As an easily grown and 

 beautiful climber, the Tropa^olum Ijohhianum ranks high ; it 

 will be in perfection now. Rearrange the plants occasion- 

 ally ; changing their positions prevents monotony in appear- 

 ance, and conduces to their health. Much taste can be dis- 

 played in arranging and grouping those of similar habits and 

 natures. When 



" Surly blasts lay fields and forests bare," 



a greenhouse becomes doubly interesting. Opportunities of 

 leisure should be employed in making stakes, labels, &,c., 



