THE POTTING-SIIED 129 



the potting-bench. Lastly there should be a supply of sharp 

 sand, and here a few words may be needed as to its different 

 qualities. The beginner invariably thinks that any kind of 

 sand will answer, but this is far from being the case. Silver- 

 sand is generally recommended, and answers fairly well, but for 

 the most part it is too fine, nor is it always easy to obtain. If 

 it be possible, therefore, to procure locally a coarser quality, 

 more of the character of finely crushed granite or quartz, it is 

 very much to be preferred. The coarse grit used by builders 

 will generally do equally well for potting purposes, but builders 

 do not always trouble themselves to get the best for their own 

 use. Sea-sand, thoroughly washed from salt, may also be used 

 where it can be easily obtained. But the fine sand of the 

 green-sandstone formation, or indeed any of soft earthy 

 texture, is positively injurious to pot plants, clogging the soil 

 instead of making it free and open. In some districts, 

 especially where flints abound, road-grit is the very best that 

 can be procured for the purpose. The use of sand, be it 

 remembered, is merely mechanical and not nutritive j never- 

 theless it is indispensable, as it assists drainage and keeps the 

 soil permeable and sweet. A bag of charcoal is another 

 addition to the potting-shed which should not be omitted. It 

 is most useful as drainage, being much lighter than the pot- 

 sheards in common use, while at the same time, it supplies a 

 fund of nourishment to the growing roots. Pounded very 

 small, it may be mixed with potting-soil to the great benefit of 

 most plants, including Ferns, and especially for such as do not 

 require re-potting every year. Where bulbs are grown in water, 

 as they not infrequently are, a piece of charcoal dropped into 

 it keeps the water fresh and pure. It is also a help to those 

 cuttings and there are many such which it is convenient to 

 root in water. With regard to drainage, an inch or more of 

 broken sheards should be placed over the hole at the bottom 

 of every pot a single piece not being sufficient, as is too often 



