STOCKS 13 



thousand have to be handled. So let the length be 9 inches 

 no more, no less. 



As much care should be taken in the making of these cuttings 

 as though they were roses, for they are of the same character and 

 habits, and need just as much encouragement. If secateurs are 

 used, as they usually are, then they should be kept well sharpened, 

 for, though we dislike this tool, we are bound to admit its economic 

 value. Whenever we use secateurs, it is not of the French type, 

 but the rather more cumbrous make with a sliding blade which 

 can be got used to after practice. Anything of the nature of a pinch 

 must bruise the bark of the cutting, and with ordinary secateurs 

 this is often unavoidable. The cuttings being cut to length are 

 passed out of hand and a junior takes them up to " eye " them 

 that is, to remove the eyes. Leaving the two top ones to grow, he, 

 with a sharp knife, slices off the eyes and probably any very prom- 

 inent thorns. He knows that every eye has three potential buds 

 that is, the main central bud and a subsidiary one on either side 

 so that if the cut is not sufficient to take off all three the one remain- 

 ing is certain to grow. In slicing them off, the cut must not penetrate 

 beyond the bark, or the wound will set up a weakness which may 

 possibly develop at some later stage, and during its life it meets 

 with quite enough difficulties without having to bear needless 

 wounds. 



Most nurseries have " cutting " grounds that is, a plot of 

 ground, small or large, according to requirements, set aside for 

 cuttings of various sorts and this is a good custom, because 

 it can be got into and kept in good condition ; new soil of the 

 correct quality can be added and it can enjoy the advantages of a 

 sheltering, evergreen hedge if necessary. But suppose there is 

 no such plot set apart, then the next best thing is to select your spot 

 in some sheltered position, and if the soil is too heavy modify it 

 with sand, road sweepings, or some other open material, until 

 it becomes workable, friable and " kind." As with the rose, so 

 with the rose stock, the cuttings must be firmly set in firm soil ; 

 and the same treading after frosts must be given to these, as indeed 

 to most cuttings in the open ground. The summer cultivating and 

 cleaning must also be carried out throughout the season, and 

 those who best carry this out are paid the best. The results are 



