GERANIUM. 147 



should also be newly potted twice in the course of the 

 summer : once about a month after they are placed abroad, 

 and again towards the end of August. When this is 

 done, all the roots on the outside of the ball of earth 

 should be carefully pared off, and as much of the old 

 earth removed as can be done without injuring the plants. 

 If they then require a larger pot, they should be planted 

 in one about two inches wider than that from which they 

 have been removed. Some fresh earth should first be 

 placed at the bottom, and on that the plant should be 

 placed in such a manner, that the ball of earth adhering to 

 it may be about an inch below the rim of the pot: it 

 should then be filled up, and the pot a little shaken to 

 settle the earth about the roots : the earth must then be 

 gently pressed down at the top, leaving a little space for 

 water to be given without running over the rim: finally, 

 the plant should be liberally watered, and the stem fastened 

 to a stake, to prevent the winds from displacing the roots 

 before they are newly fixed. 



As the branches advance in growth, and new leaves are 

 formed at the tops of them, the lower ones constantly 

 decay : these should be plucked off every week or fort- 

 night ; as they are not only unsightly, but injurious to the 

 air about the plants. 



The tube-rooted kinds may be increased by parting the 

 roots, which should be done in August : every tuber that 

 has an eye to it will grow. Such as are raised from slips 

 should be planted in May, June, or July, taking only the 

 last year's shoots, from which the lower leaves must be 

 stripped. When planted, give them water, and place 

 them in the shade. In four or five weeks they will have 

 taken root, when they may be so placed as to enjoy the 

 sun till eleven in the morning, and there remain until re- 

 moved to their winter quarters. The slips chosen for 



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