EXHIBITION BLOOMS 3 



Bench System Assuming the cuttings have been rooted and potted 

 into small pots and placed in a cool place, watering and giving all the air 

 possible is all the attention required for the next few weeks. As the. 

 roots come through to the sides of the pots they will need shifting into 

 the next size larger. If they are first in two-inch pots, three-inch will 

 be required for the first shift and 2y 3 -inch in 3^-inch or 4-inch. When 

 propagated in February it may be necessary to shift again in still larger 

 sized pots to prevent them from becoming pot bound and thus check their 

 growth. 



Soil Complete directions on this subject given in the preceding chap- 

 ter are applicable here as well as the preparation of the benches. 



Planting Those who have houses of sufficient height and can plant 

 by May 15th, doubtless have best results inasmuch as the plant has a 

 longer period of growth and becomes thoroughly established. 



As to depth of soil it may be from four to six inches, the former 

 preferred, as there is less liability of its becoming sour by overwatering 

 before the plants are well established. When the benches are made ready 

 and filled, the next step is to decide how far apart they shall be planted. 

 There are many opinions upon this subject, and without question the best 

 results are obtained where ample room is given for full development by 

 free admission of air. Ten to twelve inches apart each way is little 

 enough; much depends upon the size of the foliage. In planting, firm 

 them well, leaving a slight depression around each plant to receive the 

 first few applications of water, but do not wet entire until the plants 

 make new roots and are strong enough to utilize all the soil. 



This condition is apparent at the pushing forth of vigorous growth 

 which indicates a corresponding strong root action. At this stage the 

 whole soil should be watered. 



Firming After the plants begin making rapid growth, go over the 

 bench with a brick or heavy mallet and firm the soil, so that the original 

 four inches will not exceed three when firmed. If of a porous nature it 

 can scarcely be overdone, but if stiff clay, caution is advisable lest the 

 drainage be impaired. By planting in shallow soil and firming it well, 

 conditions are established very similar to those of the pot system, which 

 will produce short-jointed plants. 



Tying The directions given Commercial growers w r ill here suffice. 

 Those who prefer stake instead of twine can stretch a wire three feet 

 above the bench over each row and tie wire or bamboo stakes thereto, 

 to which the plants are tied as soon, and often, as their growth requires 

 support. 



Buds and Disbudding At just what time to save the buds is ever 

 n very perplexing problem to the expert, inasmuch as climatic conditions 

 have a great deal to do with the results. The change of temperature 



