" ALLWOODII " 



57 



be extended like the latter. Still there is ample space to set each 

 of the growths and give to them there modicum of soil. The 

 whole operation of layering as described for carnations applies in 

 every detail to Allwoodii, therefore we need not recapitulate ; 

 there is only this difference, that whereas we do not disturb carnation 

 layers for nearly three months, we can take up Allwoodii in about 

 six weeks after layering and find them splendidly rooted. 



The after-cultivation of the plants is identical with that we give 

 to our best garden pinks. We say " best " garden pinks advisedly, 

 because it is a fact that the real, old-fashioned garden pink, 

 once planted, is too often left to itself for a series of years, and 



FIG, 17. Dianthus Allwoodii as Growing 



while it is quite possible that its latest successor might prove 

 equally indifferent to such neglect, its much greater value impels 

 us to treat it more generously. 



Allwoodii easily substantiates its claim to be almost perpetual 

 flowering ; but we would rather put it that from successive batches 

 of plants flowers may be cut in profusion from March till December. 

 We obtain our first flowers from plants struck in April, potted and 

 grown on during the summer without being permitted to bloom, 

 then stood in a cold house in November, where they are protected 

 from severe frost and enjoy an abundance of fresh air. After the 

 middle of January a current of heat is turned on, but so moderate 

 that what the plants obtain cannot be termed " forcing," but only 

 " gentle assistance." Even this, in a temperature not exceeding 

 50 degrees, unless it be from sun-heat, these quickly responsive 



