GEXEKAL CTI.TFRAL DETAILS 25 



Chr} r santhemums this method has marked disadvan- 

 tages, especially in its lack of stability as the flowers 

 attain size and weight. 



Probably the best way to train the exhibition 

 stock is to strain overhead wires as before advised at 

 bights approximating that of the growth of the varie- 

 ties ; then placing to each plant one of the ordinary 

 commercial ^galvanized wire plant stakes, which are 

 held in position by the soil at the base, and can be 

 securely tied to the wires above. These make light, 

 neat and rigid supports, at all times, and are much 

 to be preferred to cane stakes, which, from their 

 thickness, when used in large number, cast consider- 

 able shade upon the young plants. These wire stakes 

 are obtainable in varying lengths up to six feet, and 

 last indefinitely, and, moreover, something may be said 

 for their cleanliness as compared with strings and 

 canes that harbor insects when any of these pests 

 abound. 



SIDE SHOOTS AXD SUCKERS 



The removal of superfluous growth is an operation 

 that entails a lot of patient labor, but nevertheless calls 

 for efficient performance. After the plants are grow- 

 ing vigorously, lateral growth in the form of side 

 shoots arising from the axil of each leaf will appear 

 continuously. All these should be pinched out, or 

 rubbed out, as soon as they are large enough to handle, 

 observing due care not to injure the main leaves, also 

 not allowing these shoots to grow unduly, as they 

 quickly will. This is just one of the operations that 

 can be put off till tomorrow without apparent harm, 

 but is better done today, as each day for many days 

 will have its quota of superfluous growths needing 

 removal. Prompt action in this keeps the plant's 

 energies concentrated upon the main stem, and delay 



