56 PRESENT-DAY GARDENING 



must always come between two applications of liquid 

 manure. Just how often feeding will be needed depends 

 upon the condition of the soil and the plants, but nothing 

 is to be gained, and something may easily be lost, by 

 excessive applications. 



In regard to the particular form of stimulant or food 

 that will be given, it may be taken for granted that each 

 grower will work according to his own convenience ; and 

 fortunately Sweet Peas are not fastidious in this matter, 

 but will, when in full vigour and perfect health, be thankful 

 for anything good that may happen to come along. The 

 principal point that the cultivator must keep in view is to 

 provide as great a change as possible, and in no circum- 

 stances to give the same food in the same form twice in 

 immediate succession. Soot-water or liquid manure from 

 the farm-yard will answer admirably, and a fairly safe guide 

 to strength is to give them of the colour of weak tea or pale 

 ale. As a special stimulant nitrate of soda or sulphate of 

 ammonia, at the rate of one ounce to the gallon of water, is 

 excellent, and will increase the richness of the colour in 

 both leaves and flowers ; but if nitrate of potash is at com- 

 mand it is superior to either of those named, for the reason 

 that it will improve the substance and texture of the blooms 

 as well as the colour. It must not be used at a greater 

 strength than half an ounce in each gallon of water, and 

 three gallons to the square yard should be the rule. 



