Balsam Begonia 



even by a gale. When grown in pots throughout, the chief points 

 are to shift them often in the early stages, to promote free growth in 

 every reasonable way, and to cease shifting when they are in pots 

 sufficiently large to sustain the strength of the plants. Generally 

 speaking, 8-inch pots will suffice for very fine Balsams, but lo-inch 

 pots may t>e used for plants from an early sowing. They will 

 probably not show a flower-bud while increased pot room is allowed 

 them; but as soon as their roots touch the sides of the pots the 

 bloom will appear, and the work will be completed. It is occasion- 

 ally the practice to lift plants from beds when pot Balsams are 

 wanted. This method has the advantage of being the least trouble- 

 some, and as the plants need not be lifted until the flowers show, 

 favourite colours can be chosen. 



BEGONIA, TUBEROUS-ROOTED 



Begonia hybrida. Half-hardy perennial 



THE splendid development of the Tuberous-rooted Begonia is alto- 

 gether the result of recent skilful labour. On its introduction the 

 flowers were small, imperfect in form, and wanting in range of colour. 

 But experts were quick in apprehending the capabilities of this 

 graceful plant, and it proved to be unusually amenable to the 

 hybridiser's efforts. Now the large, symmetrical blossoms of both 

 single and double flowers challenge attention for beauty of form and 

 an almost endless variation of tints peculiar to the Tuberous-rooted 

 Begonia. The plants are conspicuous ornaments of the conservatory 

 and greenhouse, and experience has proved that they make unique 

 bedders, enduring unfavourable conditions of weather which are fatal 

 to many of the older bedding subjects. 



From the best strains of seed it is easy, with a little patience, to 

 raise a fine stock of plants, possessing the highest decorative qualities 

 with the probability of securing some striking novelties equal in 

 merit to named Begonias sold at high prices. The seedlings from a 

 January or February sowing will, under generous treatment, come 

 into bloom during July and August. In the autumn they will be- 

 come large plants for blooming again in the following spring. Another 

 sowing made in July or August will furnish young stock to stand 

 through the winter and show their beauty in the succeeding. spring 

 and summer. 



223 



