72 The Flower Garden [Chapter 



lowed to remain when the old plants are removed in 

 the fall or following spring. The bed will, in this 

 way, perpetuate itself; but cuttings from the same 

 plants deteriorate in two or three years, and fresh 

 seed should be sown every two years at least. 



In growing winter Carnations for the house shift 

 them as often as the growth of the plant requires, 

 using three parts loam, one part leaf-mould, and one 

 part each of sharp sand and old manure. When ready 

 to bloom they should be in five- or six-inch pots. They 

 require an atmosphere cooler than that of the ordinary 

 living-room. A south window away from direct fire, 

 where the temperature stands at 50 or 55 degrees, is 

 best. Water thoroughly, but allow the soil to nearly 

 dry out before watering again. If possible sprinkle 

 the foliage every day and watch carefully for green fly 

 and red spider; though there is less danger of their 

 appearance in a cool room than in the hot, dry air of 

 the living-room. When the flower-stalks appear they 

 will need support, which may be supplied by placing 

 three or four sticks or cat-tails at the side of the pot 

 and twisting strings around them, back and forth, 

 forming a frame around the plant. There is an ex- 

 cellent Carnation frame on the market, costing a few 

 cents, which is similar but much neater. Stakes thrust 

 into the ground near the crown of a plant are apt to 

 injure it, and must be used carefully if at all; the 

 finer the point on the stake the less damage done. 

 Should green lice or flies appear syringe the plants 



