CULTIVATION FROM CUTTINGS 29 



the earlier the cuttings are put in the better. In the south 

 of England, where the atmosphere is dry and the sun often 

 scorching in July, more care must be exercised to obtain 

 successful "strikes" than in the cooler atmosphere of the 

 north. It is well, in the south, to select a position facing 

 west, north-west, or north-east for the frame. Do not let 

 any one be frightened by the mention of a frame ; it is merely 

 advocated for ensuring safety and security. The simplest 

 way to make one is to procure some boards, 9 or 10 inches 

 broad, and nail them strongly together at the corners so as to 

 make a box, without top or bottom, of course, exactly the 

 width of the sash, and 2 inches shorter. The sash may be 

 any size that is most convenient. The orthodox frame is 

 6 feet by 4 feet, but a smaller size is handier for the amateur. 

 The frame should have guides nailed on the sides, so that 

 the sash can be moved up and down with safety. The 

 frame must be placed on the soil so that it slopes gently 

 from back to front. This can easily be done by sinking 

 the front of the frame 3 inches into the soil. Much de- 

 pends on the nature of the soil what preparation is required 

 to be made for the cuttings. If it is free and well drained 

 it will only require a little sharp sand well incorporated 

 with it to make an ideal bed. If, however, it is strong 

 clay, it must be removed to the depth of 9 inches and the 

 bottom dug with a fork to give drainage, and the space 

 thereafter filled up with some free soil or compost old 



