PLANTS FOR WINDOW GARDENING. 91 



the flowers will compensate for any trouble. To prevent 

 " drawing," that is, the growing of the plants towards the 

 light, all geraniums should be frequently turned, which will 

 give a well-proportioned plant. If the plants grow too tall, 

 pinch out the top ; all the axillary buds will then break 

 into lateral branches. Again, if the side branches become 

 too close, prune them out fearlessly. The geranium breaks 

 easily, and you need never be afraid of killing the plant, 

 even if you prune it down to a bare stump. 



SOIL. 



Pelargoniums and geraniums require a strong soil ; that 

 is, good sound loam, such as will grow melons. The top 

 of a pasture will answer well. Let it be carted home and 

 laid up in a long ridge, so as to expose as large a surface to 

 the air as possible. Keep it clear of weeds, and let it be 

 turned over every little while. To two parts of this loam, 

 add one part of two-year-old cow dung, well turned over. 

 Old hot-bed dung will do nearly, but not quite as well. 

 Then add about one part of river sand and bits of charcoal, 

 mixed. Let all these ingredients be kept in separate heaps 

 till wanted for potting, then mix them in the above propor- 

 tions, and use them moderately dry. This compost should 



