112 HOME FLORICULTURE 



of flowers. It is seldom attacked by insects, but has 

 been troubled, somewhat, of late, with the fungous 

 disease of which mention has been made. This can 

 be kept in check easily by the use of Copperdine. 



There are many varieties in cultivation, all good, 

 but the amateur who is obliged to confine his or her 

 selection to a few varieties will find the following list 

 to include the best and most distinct sorts : 



Haageana A robust variety, having bronze-green 

 foliage, and large, rosy-white flowers. 



Rubra A grand old variety. Strong grower. 

 Flowers coral red, in enormous, drooping, spreading 

 panicles. Always in bloom. The Begonia for every- 

 body to grow. 



Semperflorens gigantea Carmine flowers, large 

 and showy. 



Gloire de Lorraine No plant of recent introduc- 

 tion has created a greater furore among florists. A 

 magnificent sort for winter flowering. Of medium 

 size and very symmetrical habit. Literally covered 

 from October to April with large rose-colored flowers. 

 The queen of Begonias. 



Tuberous Begonias are among the finest of our 

 summer blooming plants. They should be started in 

 January and February for early flowering, and at 

 intervals thereafter, up to March, to prolong the season 

 of bloom. They like a rich, spongy soil, which should 

 have good drainage. Keep in a light place, but not in 

 strong sunshine. The flowers of many varieties often 

 measure six inches across. In color they range from 

 white and delicate shades of yellow and rose to brilliant 

 tones of scarlet, crimson and orange. Some are single, 

 some double. The double sorts will be found most 

 satisfactory, so far as the individual flower is con- 

 cerned, but the single ones are quite their equal in 

 decorative ability. This class of Begonia cannot be 



