DIARY OPERATIONS K)R THE YEAR. 283 



with a solution of fir-tree oil, to keep down mealy bug, 

 scale, and other insects; it is also applied to Roses that 

 are planted on benches for winter flowering, which are 

 syringed every morning as soon as the sun strikes the 

 glass, to keep down red spider, thrip, etc. We never 

 syringe on dull days. Lifted and potted Bouvardias, 

 preparatory to planting them out again on the benches 

 for winter. It is of the utmost importance that Bou- 

 vardias should be potted early not later than the mid- 

 dle of September, in this section. If left until cool 

 weather sets it, they will not root freely in the pots, be- 

 ing plants that luxuriate in a high temperature. The 

 plants are kept shaded and watered carefully, for a week 

 or so after being potted, and it is better to keep them 

 outside until they are placed permanently in the green- 

 house. Also, put in cuttings of Variegated Geraniums 

 of various kinds this day. Topped Carnations,f or the pur- 

 pose of producing suitable cuttings in October; it is now 

 too late to cut back those that are wanted for winter 

 flowers. Collected seeds of Salvia patens and S. splen- 

 dens. Cleared off old plants of Pansies, to allow the 

 self-sown seedlings light and air. Beginning to dry off 

 Caladiuins grown in six inch pots. 60 62. 



10^. Continued potting Bouvardias. Put in cut- 

 tings of Zomile Geraniums; also, a few cuttings of those 

 Verbenas of which our stock is short. 61 64. 



12th. Repotted Primulas, for winter flowering. 

 Sowed Cabbage, Cauliflower, and Lettuce seed in open 

 ground, to be planted out under cold frames in October. 

 59 55. 



13th. Repotted Fuchsias for stock. Layered Straw- 

 berries in two-inch pots, to make a plantation next 

 month, rather late, however. 54 60. 



llth. Began propagating general collection of Verbe- 

 nas; cuttings in excellent order. Collected flower seeds 

 of all kinds. 58 59. 



