58 WINDOW GARDENING. 



re-potting whenever the roots begin to curl round the inside 

 of the pot, or as gardeners say, " touch the pot." This is 

 easily ascertained by turning the pot down, striking the 

 rim gently against some object by a quick rap, holding the 

 ball of earth and the plant on the palm of the other hand. 

 The plant may thus be taken from the pot and examined, 

 returned again, settled by a smart stroke of the bottom of 

 the pot on the table, and will be none the worse for the 

 inspection. This is also a good way to detect worms in 

 pots, they generally living near the outside of the ball. The 

 operation must, however, be quickly done, or the worm will 

 be too nimble and withdraw into the interior of the ball. 



Stirring the surface of the soil is very beneficial, especially 

 for roses, if the roots are not thereby injured. Top dressing 

 is also productive of good effects, particularly with old 

 plants in heavy pots and tubs. It is simply removing the 

 top soil as far down as the upper roots, and refilling the 

 pot with fresh, light, rich soil. 



MANURING 



Is not generally needed in pot plants. A mixture of pow- 

 dered or small bits of charcoal in the soil adds a deeper lus- 

 tre to the green of the foliage and brilliancy to the color of 





