CHAPTER XV 



GREENHOUSE AND STOVE BULBS 



Achimenes Alocasias Amorphophalluses Arisaemas Arums 

 Begonias Bomareas Caladiums 



ACHIMENES 



THE charming Achimenes is not so much grown as 

 formerly, but it might well become more popular among 

 those who have a warm greenhouse or stove in which to 

 start the tubers, as before coming into bloom they may 

 be taken into the conservatory, where their bright 

 flowers will be much admired in pots, pans, or baskets. 

 They may be planted in equal parts of peat and fibrous 

 loam, with a small proportion of manure, from about the 

 beginning of February until the end of April. They can 

 either be started in the receptacle in which they are to 

 flower or transplanted when an inch or two high, the 

 latter being preferable. A night temperature of about 

 sixty degrees is required, and they should have plenty of 

 water and be regularly syringed to keep off red spider. 

 The points may be taken out to make the plants more 

 bushy. When they come into bloom they should be 

 removed to the greenhouse or conservatory ; while in 

 bloom syringing should be suspended. Partial shade 

 is also advisable. Withhold water gradually after 

 flowering, and when the leaves are yellow place the 

 pots in a dry place in a moderate temperature, leaving 

 the tubers undisturbed until they are wanted for starting. 

 There are many varieties, and mixed sorts can be pur- 

 chased at a low rate. 

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