DECORATIVE PLANTS 47 



THE AZALEA 



The azalea is difficult to propagate in the house but 

 is a very desirable plant to purchase from dealers, on 

 account of the numerous rich-colored flowers that it pro- 

 duces. Azaleas taken from the greenhouse in December 

 should bloom during the greater part of the winter. 



It is best to water the plant with soft water. Lime 

 will injure it so easily that even the small quantity con- 

 tained in hard water will hinder its proper development. 

 It should be watered freely, so that the water will pene- 

 trate the thick mat of fine roots, and should be kept clean 

 by showering freely when not in bloom. 



For repotting, use two thirds fibrous loam and one 

 third sand. The plant should be repotted late in winter, 

 but need not be repotted often. During the summer keep 

 it out of doors in a cool, shady place, but give it an 

 abundance of water. 



THE OXALIS 



The oxalis may be produced easily in either the school- 

 room or the home window. The bulbs may be planted 

 in either spring or fall. A dozen may be planted in a 

 six-inch pan that is three inches deep. The pan may be 

 suspended from a bracket fastened to the window casing. 

 The bulbs must be watered sparingly at first, but after 

 they begin to grow, plenty of water must be given them. 

 When they are done blooming, let the soil dry out 

 gradually and repot them after they are entirely dry. 



