April'] REMARKS ON GARDENING. 57 



the prepared scions cut into lengths of three, four or five 

 eyes, take one which matches the stock in size, and slope 

 the bottom of it so as to fit the stock, that the rinds of both 

 may correspond exactly, especially on one side and at bottom ; 

 make also a slit upward in the graft, like that in the slope of 

 the stock, so that the one may be inserted in the other as 

 evenly and completely as possible. Let the graft be carefully 

 held in its due position, while a bandage is applied. Take 

 strands of Russian mat, and bind them in a neat manner 

 several times round the stock and graft. Lastly, cover the 

 joint with well-worked clay; coat from half an inch below 

 the bottom of the graft to an inch above the top of the stock, 

 and to the thickness of half an inch all round ; finish it in 

 an oblong globular form, taking care to work it close, that 

 no air may penetrate. If the clay is covered with moss, it 

 will partially prevent it from cracking. 



The grafts will have taken when they begin to grow freely : 

 then, the clay may be broken ofi", and the bandage loosened,, 

 and put on again, but not so tight as formerly ; give the 

 drafts a stake for support, tying them thereto to prevent 

 accidents from the wind. Allow no shoots to arise from the 

 stock. 



APRIL. 



The ambition of every amateur and gardener, during this 

 month, is to be at the head of every department, and over 

 every spot. The operator's activity, in this month, almost 

 regulates the whole season. Every weed ought to be cut 

 down as soon as it appears, and the proverbial saying will be 

 realized, ^' A garden that is well kept is easily kept ;'^ one 

 hour of laborious industry now will save two in the heat of 

 summer. A wet day need cause no loss of time : prepare 

 rods, bands, and tallies, to be in readiness when required. 

 Many, in the height of bustle, never finish properly as they 

 proceed, wliich is the worst of practices. Every operation 

 ought to be completely and properly finished before another 



