238 THE PRACTICAL GARDEN -BOOK 



times each day, until a new root-growth has started, Watering 

 at the roots only when absolutely necessary. Plants that 

 have been potted into larger pots will grow without the extra 

 attention of syringing, but those from the borders, that have 

 had their roots mutilated or shortened, should be placed in a 

 cool, shady spot and be syringed often. One 

 soon becomes familiar with the wants of indi- 

 vidual plants, and can judge closely as to need 

 of water. All soft-wooded plants with a large 

 leaf -surf ace need more water than hard- wooded 

 plants, and a plant in luxuriant growth of any 

 kind more than a plant that has been cut back 

 or become defoliated. When plants are grown in living- 

 rooms, moisture must be supplied from some source, and if 

 no arrangement has been made for having a moist air the 

 plants should be syringed often. See Syringing. 



Watermelon. The culture of this is essen- 

 tially the same as that for muskmelons (which see), except 

 that most varieties require a warmer place and longer period 

 of growth. Give the hills a distance of from 6 to 10 feet 

 apart. Choose a warm, "quick" soil and sunny exposure. 

 It is essential, in the North, that the plants grow rapidly and 

 come into bloom early. One ounce of seed will plant 

 thirty hills. 



Wax Plant. The Wax Plant, or HOYA, is 

 one of the commonest of window-garden plants, and yet it 

 is one which people usually have difficulty in flowering. 

 However, it is one of the easiest plants to manage if a per- 

 son understands its nature. It is naturally a summer-bloom- 

 ing plant, and should rest during the winter time. In the 

 winter, keep it just alive in a cool and rather dry place. If 

 the temperature does not go above 50 Fahr., so much 

 the better; neither should it go much lower. In late winter 

 or spring, the plant is brought out to warm temperature, 

 given water and started into growth. The old flower-stems 



