414 FRITZ BAHR'S COMMERCIAL FLORICULTURE 1 



Fig. 192. KALMIA LATIFOLIA IN FLOWER. Here is a fine Easter plant just a 

 little different from the usual run of stock. 



KALMIAS 



Kalmias are native hardy flowering evergreens valuable for 

 garden use like Rhododendrons, and for Easter forcing in pots and 

 tubs. The oddly beautiful white and pinkish flower of K. latifolia, 

 the Mountain Laurel or Calico Bush (and the most widely culti- 

 vated species) is the choice of many for a national flower. To prop- 

 agate, sow seeds in early Spring in sand in a frame or cool house; 

 prick off as soon as possible and when seedlings are established, 

 grow on outdoors. Retailers had best buy stock already grown. 

 Kalmias can be transplanted fairly easily but should be well mulched 

 the first season. They dislike clay and limestone soils. 



