CHAPTER XXV'lii 



THE CARNATION AND THE FUCHSIA 



The Carnation 



Everybody knows and admires this superb and 

 exquisitely fragrant flower, and every collection ought 

 to contain several varieties of it. One fine Carnation 

 is worth a score of ordinary blossoms. It is especially 

 adapted to cultivation in cool rooms, where plenty of 

 sunshine can be given it. The varieties now in general 

 cultivation are far superior, in every way, to those 

 of a few years ago. Their flowers are richer in color, 

 of much greater size, and their calyx does not burst 

 as that of the older varieties was almost sure to. They 

 are also borne on long, stiff stalks, which makes them 

 exceedingly useful for cut-flower work. We have no 

 flowers more valuable for cutting, because they last 

 for weeks if the water in which they are kept is fre- 

 quently changed. It grows well in a loamy soil. It 

 does not require a large pot, nor a very great deal of 

 water, but it should never be allowed to get dry at 

 the roots. It should be pinched back frequently during 

 the summer, to secure bushy, compact growth. The 

 red spider often troubles it, but it can be kept in check 

 by daily showering. If the aphis appears, dip the 

 plants in the solution of soap heretofore mentioned, at 

 least once a week. Of late, this plant has been con- 

 siderably troubled with a sort of bacterial disease, gen- 

 erally termed rust. This can be prevented by the 

 application of Copperdine. 



The following twelve varieties will be found 

 among the best and most distinct sorts for ama- 

 teur use : 



