MAR.] FLOWERS. 477 



but destroy the pips, or flower-buds, by pinching 

 them off as they appear. If the tops of the stems 

 be thus pinched off as they appear, the end will be 

 equally well accomplished. 



Of sowing Auricula and Polyanthus Seed. 

 Auricula and polyanthus seed may be sown at any 

 time in the month. If of the finer sorts of auriculas, 

 sow in a box of light, rich earth, covering very light- 

 ly, and place it in a warm, sheltered spot ; attending 

 to it with w 7 ater in dry weather, and defending it 

 from heavy rains. The reason for sowing in a box 

 or boxes, is, that they may be shifted from place to 

 place as the season advances ; for after they are up, 

 they may be more freely exposed to the weather f 

 Till then, and when they have got a few rough 

 leaves, they must be shaded from the full day sun. 

 Indeed, these plants naturally like the shade, and 

 should never be placed in a spot fully exposed to the 

 sun. If they have the morning or evening sun only, 

 they will thrive the better. 



These plants will also do very well if sown in a 

 light, rich border, at the bottom of a wall or 

 hedge, having a north-east or north-west aspect* 

 The seeds should be sown thinly, and covered light- 

 ly ; and, as the season advances, they should be mo- 

 derately supplied with water. They will be fit to 

 prick out in June, and be transplanted in August, 

 and in that case will get established before winter. 



Those who are very curious in fine auriculas, sow 

 in boxes, and place them in a slight hot-bed for a 

 few weeks, or until the plants rise j and then move 



