28 



in the pots in which they have been bloomed. The 

 strength of an unsupported stem, like that in the 

 woodcut, as an e\idence of good management, is, by 

 this means, apparent, but cannot be appreciated when 

 shewn in bottles, which is often done in the midland 

 counties. Another desideratum (which, though ab- 

 sent, is not absolutely a defect) is, a single leaf im- 

 mediately behind the truss : this gives it a neat and 

 finished appearance, similar to the sprigs of green at 

 the back of a bouquet. The number of pips neces- 

 sary to form a head for competition varies much in 

 different localities. In the north they are exhibited 

 from three to nine ; in London and the neighbour- 

 hood, seven are considered requisite. Not less than 

 five, however, ought to be allowed (except in the case 



