I30 PLANT CULTURE 



HEDYCHIUM (Garland Flower). These have long been 

 grown in conservatories, where plenty of room is at command. 

 In small conservatories they are not desirable. H. coronarium has 

 pure white, sweet-smelling flowers. H. Gardnerianum and its hybrid 

 form are useful for planting near the margins of ponds, where their 

 roots get an abundant water supply. They may be rested under a 

 bench during Winter. 



Culture. After blooming, dry-oflf the rhizomes and allow them 

 to rest for a while. Pot in Spring or early Summer and use rich soil. 

 Give plenty of water; the pots may be set half their depth in water. 



Propagation. Divide the rhizomes every two or three years. 



HIBISCUS (Rose Mallow). The varieties of H. Rosa-sinensis 

 make first-class tub plants. The varieties known as H. brilliantis- 

 simus and H. grandiflorus are the best singles among the crimson 

 varieties. There are double reds, yellows and pinks; among the 

 latter is Peach Blossom. It has exceedingly attractive flowers; 

 the name describes the color of the flower well. The plant blooms in 

 a small state. 



Culture. When grown in tubs they need liberal feeding, being 

 robust growers; and as the flowers are produced on the young wood 

 there has to be an abundant supply of this to have them looking at 

 their best. With the help of liquid manure bushes will thrive in 

 the same tubs for years. All of the kinds delight in a soil having a 

 fair proportion of leafmold. A quantity of crushed bone may be 

 added when the plants have to occupy the pots or tubs for any 

 length of time. The varieties of H. Rosa-sinensis should be given 

 a trial out of doors; they grow and flower very luxuriantly. They 

 may be kept during Winter in a structure from which frost is ex- 

 cluded. In a low temperature, and kept dry at the roots, they are 

 deciduous. 



Propagation. Autumn-struck cuttings, if grown on during 

 Winter, will give 6-inch pot plants by Spring. 



HYDRANGEA. A highly ornamental shrub much forced for 

 Easter and Memorial Day. They make handsome plants for 

 decorative purposes. H. opuloides has been used most extensively, 

 but the new French varieties are very popular and have stimulated 

 interest in the forcing of Hydrangeas. Among the French varieties, 

 General de Vibraye is a grand pink with good flower heads and 

 forces well at all times. Mme. E. Mouillere is the most popular 

 white. 



