THE CARNATION. 23> 



heap ; this accelerates the rotting of the fibrous par- 

 ticles in the loam, lightens the soil, and destroys the 

 grubs, worms, and slugs. Lime is too well known 

 as a manure to say anything further in its praise 

 here. 



APPLICATION OF SALT AS A MANURE. 



IF there has been much rain during the winter, so 

 that the strength of the compost is reduced, and the 

 salts washed from it, I take about 7 Ibs. of damaged 

 salt, and add them to it, either dissolved in water, 

 or strewed over with the hand. This, from an ex- 

 perience of three years, I have found to be attended 

 with the most beneficial effect upon the future health 

 and vigour of the plants. 



During very heavy rains, many florists cover their 

 compost with tarpaulin or double mats, to prevent 

 the nutritious particles from being washed out ; this 

 is also an excellent precaution. 



If any objection be started, that the quantity of 



