CHAPTER XI. 



Calendar of Monthly Operations. 

 JANUARY. 



THE operations of this month are probably the least of 

 any month in the year. Those who require a large 

 number of plants will of course put in every cutting 

 possible. Where only a few plants are required, thin 

 out the suckers, as they appear, to the number desired from 

 each plant. Encourage by a little liquid manure so as to get 

 strong cuttings early next month. Towards the end of the 

 month some of the stronger cuttings inserted in December 

 will be rooted, and will need potting off, and should then be 

 kept close to the glass to prevent a spindling growth. Pre- 

 pare a compost of turfy loam, well rotted manure and sand ; 

 screen, or break it up fine, as it will be required for small 

 pots. Where good cuttings are scarce, stout suckers can be 

 obtained with a few rootlets attached ; pot off singly and 

 keep close until they commence to start, when plenty of ven- 

 tilation can be given. 



FEBRUARY. 



All cuttings inserted in December will be ready for potting 

 this month. Use two and a-half inch pots and the soil pre- 

 pared last month. Examine the cuttings, and if any eyes are 

 found on the stem that will be below the soil, they should be 



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