586 LWTS OF TREES, &C. * SECT. XIX. 



ing sun is all they should have, for more of it dries 

 the mould in the pots too fast, and fades the flowers. 

 They will want frequent watering, see page 297. 

 They may take up their summer residence about 

 Mid-May \ (as directed) but the season must govern ; 

 and it will not do to bring them out in a harsh one, 

 which would pinch up the leaves, and deprive them 

 of their beauty. Put them close under a south wall 

 for a week or two at first, or an awning of mats 

 might be used over them on nights. 



Shijting geraniums should generally take place 

 once a year, from smaller pots into others one size 

 bigger: This may be in the first mild weather in 

 April) or May. Loosen, and take off the top mould 

 down to the roots, (without damaging them) then 

 turn the pot up, and gently shake it out. If the 

 roots adhere to the sides of the pot, give the edge a 

 tap upon the knee, or something else, and a little 

 pressure at the hole, with the thumb, or finger, at 

 the same time, which will help to discharge it. Pare 

 off the matted roots round the sides and bottom, 

 with a sharp knife ; and plant it in a fresh pot, (or 

 the same again may sometimes do) putting in as 

 much fine moderately light rich mould or compost, 

 at the bottom, as will raise the ball of earth, -which 

 is about the roots, within an inch of the top of the 

 pot; then fill round the sides, putting the mould by 

 little and little in, and pressing it down gently^ make 

 all level to the top within half an inch ; finally, give 

 a watering that shall soak to the bottom, and sprinkle 

 *soxne dry mould over. All shifted plants thould be 

 kept rather in the shade for a week or two till ready 

 to strike root. 



' r 'If any sticks "are to the plants, they must be taken 

 away first, and replaced (if necessary) again before 

 watering, or rather the next day, if the plants will 

 stand up without. .This may be a proper time to 



