374 General management of Prize Pelargoniums. 



than the one it flowered in; remember to take away the 

 earth from the roots sufficient to allow of a good drainage, 

 and about two or three inches of fresh earth between the 

 pot and the roots. This done, place the plant under a par- 

 tial shade from the sun, there to remain until it begins to 

 grow, at which time it should be removed to a more ex- 

 posed situation. When the young shoots have grown six 

 inches, stop them by cutting off the top of each ; this will 

 be the means of furnishing the plant with an abundance 

 of wood. Cut out all superfluous growths close to the old 

 wood, being mindful to preserve the strongest, leaving them 

 at regular distances. The lower growths should be trained 

 in a horizontal line from the pot, and all the intermediate 

 ones should follow at proper distances ; the strong and ro- 

 bust growing kinds, of course, will need a greater space be- 

 tween each shoot than those of weaker habits. By follow- 

 ing this method, the plant may be brought into the shape 

 of a perfect cone or sugar loaf. 



The third year, a similar process may be pursued, and 

 the plant may be grown to any shape or size the cultiva- 

 tor's fancy or taste may wish for. The second year how- 

 ever from the cuttings, they will probably make the best 

 specimen plants ; therefore I leave it altogether to the de- 

 cision of the cultivator, whether he should or should not 

 prolong its duration. 



The pelargonium is well known by all persons who 

 have any taste for plants; and whoever pays the attention 

 necessary for its cultivation will succeed in a greater or 

 less degree. A good soil, judgment in watering the plant, 

 plenty of drainage, (an important item,) stopping the 

 growth if a large plant is desired, plenty of air to keep the 

 plant from drawing or making a weak growth, destroying 

 the insects at their first appearance on the plant, and, if 

 grown under glass, eighteen inches or two feet would be 

 found to be a suitable distance for the growth and well 

 doing of the plant. This is the minutia, which must not 

 be overlooked if a prize plant is the object in view. 



Yours, &c. Jas. W. Russell. 



Brighton, Sept. 25, 1844. 



