222 THE CULTURE OF FLOWERS FROM SEEDS 



it is asked how can the splendid Herbaceous Calceolarias be best 

 grown, we answer that the simplest and safest system is to raise them 

 from seed ; this being the method of Nature herself, and the least 

 fraught with difficulties. In its present magnificent state, both as to 

 constitution and the beauty of its flowers, the Calceolaria is a hybrid 

 plant, the result of much cross- fertilisation of the finest types, hence 

 its capability of affording ever new surprises and delights. The finest 

 collections that have been exhibited of late years, and that have made 

 lasting impressions on the public by their form and brilliancy of colour, 

 have invariably been raised from seeds of selected varieties, saved on 

 scientific principles that insure vigour, variety, and splendour in the 

 progeny. 



In the cultivation of these flowers, it should be borne in mind 

 that they cannot endure without injury any extreme conditions of 

 atmosphere or temperature. They must not be exposed to undue 

 heat, or to frost, or to a dry parching air at any time. Damp will 

 harm them less than drought ; what they require is careful cool-house 

 cultivation. But Calceolarias cannot be grown in a careless haphazard 

 fashion. From the very beginning the work must be thoroughly well 

 done, and the attention be ceaseless. The result will more than 

 justify the care and labour bestowed upon them. 



May is early enough to commence operations, and July is quite 

 late enough for the final sowing. As a rule, the June sowing will 

 produce the quickest, strongest, and most robust plants. 



The soil, whatever be its composition, should b2 rich, firm, and 

 above all porous. Press it well into the pots or pans, and make the 

 surface slightly convex and quite smooth. A compost that has been 

 properly prepared will not need water, but should it become needful 

 to moisten it, this must be done by partially submerging the pans 

 in water. The seed is as fine as snuff, and requires delicate handling. 

 It is easily lost or blown away, and therefore it is wise not to open 

 the packet until perfectly ready to sow. Distribute the seed evenly, 

 and sift over it a mere dusting of fine earth. Place a sheet of glass 

 upon each pot or pan, and the glass must either be turned or wiped 

 daily. This not only checks rapid evaporation, but prevents the 

 attacks of vermin. Germination is always slower on an open than on 

 a close stage. Perhaps the best possible position is a moist shady 

 part of a vinery, if only care be taken when syringing the vines to 

 prevent the spray from falling upon the seed-pans. 



Under favourable circumstances, from seven to nine days will 

 suffice to bring the seedlings up in force, and very few will appear 



