00 STATE POMOLOGICAL SOCIETY. 



plant them in water-tight pots or tubs, that roots and soil may all 

 be constantly under water. By the first of June the pots should 

 be turned on the side, on the shaded side of a fence, hedge, or 

 building, there to remain till the first of September, uncared for, 

 except to roll them over occasionally, that the few leaves remain- 

 ing on them may not grow all upon one side. Then soak the dry 

 plant and earth in water, remove unnecessary side-shoots or bulbs, 

 and re-pot in one part each of sand and muck and two parts old 

 well-rotted cow manure. 



For soil for general use, we find nothing better than well rotted 

 turf from the road side or pasture ; old, well pulverized horse or 

 cow manure, (the former is preferable), and common sand, in equal 

 parts ; and if mixed a year or two previous to use the better. In 

 the absence of rotted turf, old and finely pulverized muck, or leaf 

 mould from the woods, will answer well, indeed, would be pre- 

 ferred by some. 



In re-potting, and when a change of the soil is necessary, you 

 should never break or shake the soil from the roots, as some tell 

 us to do, but place the ball of earth in a tub of water, and with 

 the hand gently stir until the earth is all free, then, if necessary, 

 trim with a sharp knife or scissors. This operation is about the 

 surest remedy for a stand-still, sickly plant of any variety, and if 

 this fails it may as well be laid aside to make room for another of 

 more promise. This nursing and petting a fancy-leaved geranium, 

 cissus, or what-not, for a series of months, even years, is hardly 

 worth the pains bestowed, while there are so many varieties of 

 desirable plants at hand. 



Should your pot plants need enriching, a small spoonful of liquid 

 ammonia from your druggist, added to a pail of water, or what is 

 equally as good, if at hand, a pail, tub or barrel, located in some 

 out of the way place, filled one-eighth full with hen manure, and 

 the balance with water, after being well stirred and settled may be 

 used twice or thrice in each month. • 



Now we will turn our attention to the coming work of spring. 

 There is no witchcraft in growing flowers — those most desirable 

 for the masses — only a little perseverance mingled with common 

 sense, will insure success. 



The plans submitted for Mr, Boardman's premium are all ex- 

 ecuted by the more ardent lovers of flowers, the ladies, and all 

 reflect much credit on the skill and good taste of those who 

 designed them. 



