372 GREENHOUSE MANAGEMENT. 



proper precautions are not taken in keeping the houses 

 cool and in ventilating properly. 



There is quite a marked difference in the quantity 

 of bloom and size of flowers with carnations grown by 

 the two methods, but no data can be given, as the ex- 

 periments are incomplete. Since the plants do not 

 shade the soil to any extent, it soon becomes quite hard 

 where water is applied to the surface, which necessitates 

 frequent digging. In the sub-irrigated beds, however, 

 the soil does not become compacted, and the surface re- 

 mains loose and friable, in a condition to be permeated 

 by the air, even without digging. This physical effect 

 upon the soil, of sub-irrigation, makes quite a difference 

 in the amount of work required to care for a given space 

 by the two methods of watering. The carnation is not 

 an extreme case, but is a good example, as showing this 

 difference. 



Smilax and violets seem to respond well to this 

 treatment, but comparative data cannot be given at 

 present. The result of the experiment on roses has been 

 lost because of nematodes, and it is worthy of note that 

 this pest was less destructive upon the sub-irrigated than 

 upon the surface-watered bed. 



In speaking of lettuce, the fact was referred to, that 

 less care and skill are required to water properly by sub- 

 irrigation than by the ordinary method, and it may be 

 further stated that the labor is less also. The water is 

 applied quickly and it runs where it is needed. The 

 gardener judges as to the amount required by the con- 

 dition of both plants and soil, as. by the old methods. 

 Contrary to what migjit be mferred, he is less liable to 

 over-water by the new than by the old plan, for with a 

 loose, friable soil a water-logged condition is not liable 

 te occur. In our experience it has never happened. 



Do we syringe the foliage of sub-irrigated plants *o 

 destroy the red spider, and do we sprinkle the walks to 



