Flowers all the Year Round 



least expensive process, but it possesses all the charm arising from 

 the hope of some novelty which shall eclipse previously known 

 varieties. As a matter of fact, new attractions either in colour or 

 in habit are introduced almost every year. From a sowing made 

 now plants should flower in July and August, and become fine speci- 

 mens by the autumn in readiness for blooming again in the following 

 spring. 



The seed is small, and requires careful handling. It is also slow 

 and capricious in germinating, and many growers have their own pet 

 methods of starting it. Good results are obtained by insuring free 

 drainage, and partly filling the pots with rather rough fibrous com- 

 post, covered with a layer of fine sandy loam made even for a 

 seed-bed. This is sprinkled with water, and the seed is sown very 

 thinly. Some experienced growers make a rather loose surface, 

 press the seed gently into it, and do not finish with a covering of soil. 

 The majority, however, will find it safer to give a slight sifting of fine 

 earth over the seed. Then comes a trial of patience, and as the 

 seedlings appear at intervals, the wisdom of thin sowing will be 

 apparent, for each one can be lifted and potted as it becomes ready, 

 without wasting the remainder. An even temperature of about 65 

 is essential during germination. 



Begonia bulbs which have been stored through the winter will 

 need careful watching. Not until they start naturally should there 

 be any attempt to induce growth, or in all probability it will result 

 in the destruction of the bulb. Such as show signs of life should be 

 potted in good soil, commencing with small pots, and afterwards 

 shifting into larger sizes as the pots become full of roots. Until 

 the largest size intended for them is reached, remove all flowers. 

 A warm humid atmosphere is favourable to them while growing, but 

 when flowering begins moisture will be injurious. 



Canna. From the popular name of Indian Shot it will natu- 

 rally be inferred that the seed is extremely hard and spherical. 

 It needs soaking in water for twelve hours before sowing. Even 

 then it will probably be a considerable time in germinating, and 

 there will also be longer or shorter intervals between the appearance 

 of the seedlings. A high temperature is necessary to insure a start ; 

 but after the young plants are transferred to single pots, they should 

 be kept steadily going in a more moderate heat until ready for 

 the border or sub-tropical garden in June. Meanwhile they will 

 need re-potting two or three times, and should have a rich and rather 

 stiff compost. 



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