320 FLOWERS ALL THE YEAR ROUND 



varieties should be sown in pans filled with sweet sandy loam or 

 peat. They may be started in gentle heat, but it is really needless. 

 The Auricula is thoroughly hardy against cold, and glass is only 

 employed as a protection against wind, heavy rain, and atmospheric 

 deposits. 



BEGONIA, TUBEROUS-ROOTED. The grace and beauty of this 

 plant have placed it in the front rank of popular favourites. For the 

 foliage alone it is worth growing, and the flowers are unique both 

 in form and colour. Raising the plant from seed is not only the 

 least expensive process, but it possesses all the charm arising from 

 the hope of some novelty which shall eclipse previously known 

 varieties. As a matter of fact, new attractions either in colour or 

 in habit are introduced almost every year. From a sowing made 

 now, plants should flower in June or July, and become fine speci- 

 mens by the autumn in readiness for blooming again in the following 

 spring. 



The seed is small, and requires careful handling. It is also slow 

 and capricious in germinating, and many growers have their own pet 

 methods of starting it. Good results are obtained by insuring free 

 drainage, and partly filling the pots with rather rough fibrous com- 

 post, covered with a layer of fine sandy loam made even for a 

 seed-bed. This is sprinkled with water, and the seed is sown very 

 thinly. Some experienced growers make a rather loose surface, and 

 press the seed gently into it, and do not finish with a covering of soil. 

 The majority, however, will find it safer to give a slight sifting of fine 

 earth over the seed. Then comes a trial of patience, and as the 

 seedlings appear at intervals, the wisdom of thin sowing will be 

 apparent, for each one can be lifted and potted as it becomes ready, 

 without wasting the remainder. An even temperature of about 65 

 is essential during germination. 



Begonia bulbs which have been stored through the winter will 

 need careful watching. Not until they start naturally should there 

 be any attempt to induce growth, or in all probability it will result in 

 the destruction of the bulb. Such as show signs of life should be 

 potted in good soil, commencing with small pots, and afterwards 

 shifting into larger sizes as the pots become full of roots. Until 

 the largest size intended for them is reached, remove all flowers. 

 A warm humid atmosphere is favourable to them while growing, but 

 when flowering begins moisture will be injurious. 



CALCEOLARIA, SHRUBBY. Seed sown in pans placed in a frame 

 or a greenhouse of moderate temperature will insure plants for 



