GARDEN AURICULA. 139 



of rich, well-prepared compost. The surface- 

 mould in each pot is first carefully loosened with 

 a small stick and taken out ; dead or dying leaves 

 are removed by pressing them off downwards: 

 the pots are then filled up with fresh compost, 

 watered, and returned to their places on the 

 stage. While doing this, it is necessary to see 

 that every pot is efficiently drained. If any ap- 

 pear heavy, and have their surfaces covered with 

 conferva or green moss, they should be looked to, 

 lest imperfect drainage be the cause ; as nothing 

 is so hurtful to the auricula as an excess of water 

 at the root. At the same time, too, should any 

 slips be fit to remove, they may be taken off and 

 potted ; and, though at this season some of the 

 strong growers may require larger pots, this had 

 better be deferred till after they have done 

 flowering. 



While advancing into flower, regular watering 

 and effectual protection against frost are chiefly 

 to be attended to. Water should be given mode- 

 rately and frequently to the root only, and not 

 always over the leaves. If, however, an oppor- 



