June 



wholesale, but rather by frequent gentle sprinklings. On the 

 appearance of the second leaf, promptly prick off the seedlings in 

 carefully-prepared pots, allowing about two inches between each. 

 They will need dexterous manipulation because of their small size, 

 but a skilful hand will transfer them without injury, and perhaps 

 with a little soil adhering to the roots. As all the seedlings will not 

 be ready at one time, it will probably require about three operations 

 to clear the seed-pans, and the early removals should be so made 

 as to avoid injuring the remainder. Retain them in a sheltered 

 position, and continue the attention as to shade and watering. In 

 about a month the plants will be ready for thumb pots. 



Canna. In the mixed border, and also in the sub-tropical garden, 

 Cannas are much valued for the exceeding grace and beauty of their 

 foliage. They should be put into very rich soil ; and, like all other 

 plants of rapid growth, they will need copious supplies of water in dry 

 weather. In mild districts and on dry soils the plants may remain 

 out all the winter, under the protection of a heap of ashes. But, as 

 a rule, it will be necessary to store them in frames until spring ; and 

 they may be finer in the second than in the first season. 



Cineraria. To insure a succession, and where a sufficient stock 

 is not already provided, another sowing should be made, following 

 the method advised last month. The seedlings, when transferred to 

 small pots, should be put into a close frame, and be sprinkled with 

 water morning and evening until the roots take hold. At first it is 

 desirable to keep them fairly warm, but in a fortnight the heat may 

 be gradually reduced and more air be given until cool treatment is 

 reached. The plants will need potting on up to November, when 

 they should go into the final size ; and, except for special purposes, 

 6J- or 8^-inch pots are large enough. Cinerarias are sought after by 

 every pest which infests the greenhouse. We need only say that by 

 fumigation, sulphur, or by syringing with a suitable insecticide, the 

 plants must be kept clean, or they cannot be healthy. 



Dianthus. For a display next summer, sow in drills drawn six 

 inches apart in an open situation, and cover the seed lightly with fine 

 soil. Shade the spot until the plants show. 



Geranium. Sometimes a difficulty is experienced in bringing 

 Geranium seedlings into flower. They possess so much initial vigour 

 that the production of wood continues to the very end of the season. 

 Plants which show signs of excessive growth should be put into the 

 border without removing the pots. This check to the roots will throw 

 the plants into luxuriant bloom. 



355 AA3 



