26 SMITH'S CHRYSANTHEMUM MANUAL 



generous. Such conditions frequently cause some varieties to become 

 blind, that is the joints do not elongate but form a compact mass of 

 foliage at the top of the stem and literally refuse to produce buds. In 

 either case it is best to discontinue feeding, so that nature may help 

 to rectify this error. 



Lime Lime and iron enter into the construction of the plant to a 

 limited degree, but both of these are generally found in sufficient quanti- 

 ties in most soils Lime acts as a decomposing agent, liberating ammoni- 

 um and minerals contained in the compost, and has a decided solidifying 

 effect upon the plant tissues. It is best applied by dusting air-slacked lime- 

 lightly over the surface of the bed and should be rubbed in with the hands 

 or slightly raked before water is applied, otherwise it becomes hard and 

 is of little value. 



Iron Iron may be applied in the form of iron filings as a top-dressing 

 or incorporated in the compost, at the rate of a pint to the bushel, or by 

 dissolving a half-ounce of sulphate of iron (copperas) in five gallons of 

 water and apply this solution. It may be added in small quantities to 

 chemical or manurial liquids. 



Burning and Damping Experience teaches us that the red varieties 

 and more sensitive and first to show this defect. Some of the pink and 

 white and occasionally a yellow burn or damp when conditions are fav- 

 orable. From the fact that flowers produced under ordinary cultivation 

 are seldom thus affected it is quite apparent that the concentration of 

 food to the petals is the main cause and this is augmented by excessive 

 heat and moisture. 



To avoid such conditions put on full air early in the day and if pos- 

 sible do all the watering at this time, so that the plants and atmosphere- 

 may become thoroughly dry before night. 



In very damp weather it is sometimes necessary to turn on a little- 

 heat to keep the air dry and buoyant, even if the temperature does not 

 demand it. 



The accumulation of food elements in the petals beyond a certain 

 amount are transformed by chemical action of heat or dampness into an 

 acid, which dissolves the tissues. Why this defect is so apparent in some- 

 varieties and not in others we are unable to say, unless lacking in the 

 quality of substance. Get varieties thus inclined into active growth, and 

 discontinue feeding after the buds become half developed. They may lack 

 a trifle in size, but be consoled by the fact that your flowers are not 

 ruined. Some competent growers advocate the use of charcoal dust mixed 

 in the soil as a preventive. 



Top-Dressing If the details given have been attended to, in the 

 Bourse of six to eight weeks the stock will be making rapid growth, and 

 the roots extending to all parts of the soil. At this period they wiir 

 require some additional food and a light top-dressing of manure from 

 spent hot-beds in a half rotted state, or dry pulverized cow or sheep ma- 

 nure may be used to advantage. 



If the stock has been planted by May 15th, this operation will take- 



