128 CHOICE CARNATIONS, ETC. [November. 



PRIMROSES, POLYANTHUS, AND DAISIES, 



That were planted in a sheltered spot, as directed last 

 month, should have a frame placed over them, and their 

 covering in readiness for the approach of winter j giving the 

 plants a light covering of leaves, which will preserve their 

 foliage from the effects of frost. 



CHOICE CARNATIONS, PINKS, PANSIES, AND AURICULAS, 



That are in pots, should be placed in the frame intended 

 for their abode during winter. If the pots are plunged to 

 the rims in dry leaves or sawdust, it will greatly protect their 

 roots from the severe effects of frost. Where glass is used 

 for these frames, they should have besides a covering of 

 boards or straw mats ; those that are in beds may be covered 

 as above directed for Primroses, &c. 



They ought not to be uncovered while in a frozen state. 

 It is not altogether the intensity of cold that destroys these 

 plants so much as the alternate thawing and freezing. 



All half-hardy plants, such as Wall-flower, German stocks, 

 Sweet-bay, tender roses, with several others, should be 

 protected as above directed for Carnations. Earth or tan 

 should be put round the outside of these frames, which will 

 be a partial shelter from the changing state of the atmo- 

 sphere. Oak leaves answer the purpose very well, but they 

 are a harbour for all kinds of vermin, especially rats and 

 mice, which would destroy everything. It may be useful 

 to say a few words on the nature of tan or tanners' bark. 

 Many suppose that the smallest quantity will produce heat 

 If three or four cart-loads of it are put into one heap, and 

 protected from the rain, it will ferment ; and when the first 

 fermentation is abated, by mixing it with leaves, a substan- 

 tial hot-bed may be made, or put it by itself into a pit ; and 

 when there is no pit, boards may be substituted to keep it 

 together : either of these methods will produce a lasting 

 heat. But in small quantities, and exposed to rain, &c., no 

 heat will be produced, but rather the contrary. It is excel- 

 lent, when dry, in keeping out frost from any plants ; being 

 a body not easily penetrated, similar to dry sand, sawdust, 



