CHAPTER III. 



Propagation. 



THE propagation of the chrysanthemum by cuttings is 

 the system adopted in every country in which it is 

 grown. New varieties and the single sorts are pro- 

 duced from seed. Old plants may also be divided to 

 increase the stock, with comparative success, but propaga- 

 tion by cuttings is the method universally adopted, and is by 

 far the most satisfactory. Chrysanthemum cuttings root so 

 freely that few growers give the subject the attention it 

 deserves. In most cases the cuttings are taken with little 

 regard to quality, and planted where they will root most 

 quickly with the least amount of trouble. This method of 

 course may serve the purpose where the finest chrysanthe- 

 mums are not expected, but in order to obtain the best pos- 

 sible results, strict attention must be paid to every detail of 

 their culture. It is of the first importance that we commence 

 operations with good material, that as perfect a foundation 

 as possible may be laid for future success. There are so 

 many adversities to beset the grower through the long months 

 of culture, that the start should be made under the most 

 favorable circumstances. 



It is possible to produce flowers of the finest quality upon plants 

 that are propagated at any time from December to May, but as 



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