APRIL 247 



Rambler roses in large pots, after starting slowly, 

 may now be placed in a higher temperature, but they 

 must not be forced too quickly. They are much finer 

 if allowed to progress steadily. They are very thirsty 

 plants, and often need watering twice or three times a 

 day. Now that the National Rose Society has estab- 

 lished a spring rose show, rose growing in pots will 

 receive increased attention. 



Rose seed sown in December is now showing above 

 the soil. When the little seedhngs have formed one 

 true leaf they ought to be pricked off singly in two-inch 

 pots. Care must be taken not to break the point of the 

 rather long root. If the seedlings are from hybridised 

 seed they will be extremely interesting. 



April 



With the spring showers and increasing sunshine 

 growth is very rapid. Superfluous shoots in the centre 

 of bush roses should be removed, and frequent 

 search made for grubs. Especially ought the latter to 

 be looked for on the shoots of maiden plants, other- 

 wise the prospect of bloom may be destroyed. 



The Dutch, or push, hoe should be used constantly 

 now ; weeds cut of£ at this time of year are done away 

 with before they have the chance of producing seed. 

 Do not be afraid to hoe deeply. Merely scratching the 

 surface will not do. The rose beds must have a good 

 tilth, and this cannot be obtained if hoeing is neglected 

 now. 



Owing to weather conditions, possibly northern 



