FEBRUARY 325 



seed, it is both easy and interesting to do so. Sow in boxes con- 

 taining from four to six inches of soil, and as there need be no trans- 

 planting, each seed should be put in separately, about an inch and a 

 half apart. A cool greenhouse or frame will supply the requisite 

 conditions for growing the seedlings. When the foliage has died 

 down, sift out the roots, and store in dry peat or cocoa-nut fibre for 

 the winter. 



To secure an immediate display of Ranunculuses, it is necessary 

 to plant mature roots. The soil in which they especially thrive is 

 an adhesive loam or clay. This happens to be unfavourable to their 

 safety in the winter, and therefore it is wise to defer planting in such 

 soils until this month. In light land the roots may be put in during 

 November or December, and a valuable collection should be protected 

 through severe weather by litter. The culture of the Ranunculus 

 was formerly regarded as somewhat of a mystery, and amusing recipes 

 as to the sorts and proportions of certain manures have been 

 occasionally disclosed by the learned in such matters. A very simple 

 procedure, however, will suffice to produce handsome, richly coloured 

 flowers. If possible, choose for the bed a heavy soil in an open 

 situation, and dress it liberally with decayed manure. Give the land 

 a deep digging, and lay it up rough that it may be benefited by frosts. 

 In January and February fork it lightly over several times, with the 

 double purpose of making it mellow, and of enabling birds to clear 

 it of vermin. Traps made of hollowed potatoes will also assist the 

 latter object. Not later than February 20, the roots should be planted 

 in drills drawn six inches apart, and two inches deep. Put them 

 four inches apart in the rows, with the claws downwards, and cover 

 with fine soil. Keep the bed free from weeds, and give abundant 

 supplies of water in dry weather. When the foliage is dead, lift the 

 roots and store through the winter. 



The Turban Ranunculuses are not so delicate as named varieties, 

 and there need be less hesitation about autumn planting. 



RICINUS. The Castor-oil Plant is largely cultivated for its 

 striking ornamental foliage, and under generous treatment it will 

 attain from four to six feet in height. It is a half-hardy annual, and 

 should be grown in the same manner as Tobacco. 



SOLANUM. The varieties which are grown for winter decoration 

 are much prized when laden with their bright-coloured berries. 

 Sow the several kinds in heat, and transfer the seedlings straight to 

 single pots filled with very rich soil. 



TOBACCO. Where sub-tropical gardening is practised this plant 



