FLORA DOMESTICA. 



little twisted : they should be planted two inches apart, 

 the earth pressed close to them, and a little water given 

 them. . They must be shaded from the noon-day sun, and 

 be kept always moderately moist. 



These cuttings should be planted in July : they are 

 generally placed in a hot-bed, but will take rcot very well 

 without that assistance, though not so quickly as where 

 it can be allowed them. They should, however, be re- 

 moved within doors, admitting fresh air. With the ex- 

 ception of the Orange-leaved and the Nutmeg Myrtles, 

 which are somewhat tenderer than the rest, they may have 

 air given them in mild weather throughout the winter : 

 only requiring protection from frost. 



During the winter they should be gently watered twice 

 or thrice a week, when not frosty. If any decayed leaves 

 appear, they should always be pinched off. 



The young plants should be carefully taken up in the 

 spring, with the ball of earth adhering to their roots, and 

 parted into separate pots, watered well, and kept in the 

 house till they have again fixed their roots. About the 

 middle of May they should be gradually accustomed to 

 the open air, but placed where they may be defended from 

 strong winds. 



During the summer, Myrtles require plenty of water, 

 especially the young plants, which, being in small pots, 

 are sooner dry. They should be so placed as to receive the 

 morning sun only ; for if they are exposed to the meridian 

 heat, the moisture contained in these small pots will soon 

 be exhaled, and the growth of the plants much retarded. 



In August, if the roots have made their way through the 

 bottom of the pot, the plant mult be removed into one a 

 size larger : the cultivator paring off the decayed and 

 matted roots, and with the hand loosening seme of the 

 earth adhering to them, that they may find an easier pass- 



