174 MALMAISON CARNATIONS 



ficial to sever the layers from the parent plant. A suitable 

 compost for the first potting consists of two parts of loam, 

 one part leaf mold and sand; 3 in. pots are generally 

 used. Stand the newly potted plants in a coldframe, keep- 

 ing the latter closed for a few days until the Malmaisons 

 are established, then gradually admit air, finally removing 

 the sashes in favorable weather. About the first week in 

 October they will be ready for potting on into 6 in. pots, 

 using a rougher compost than the one previous. We have 

 found the following very suitable: Two parts good fibrous 

 loam, one part leaf mold, sand and wood ashes. Pot 

 firmly, taking great care not to bury the base of the stem. 

 Watering will call for minute attention at this season of the 

 year, when the plants commence to enter into the dormant 

 state. During the Winter months they should be kept 

 close to the glass in light, airy houses at a temperature of 

 50 deg. Ventilate on favorable occasions. As the Spring 

 advances and the plants are growing freely, more water 

 will be required; feeding can also be commenced, using soot 

 water and liquid manure. Each plant will need to be 

 staked and kept scrupulously clean; aphis allowed to 

 remain for even a couple of days will do irretrievable harm. 

 When the buds commence to burst and show color they 

 should be shaded, otherwise many flowers will be spoiled 

 by the sun. As the buds are opening it will be found 

 very beneficial to syringe among the pots on warm, bright 

 days. 



Plants intended for growing on for the second year will 

 require potting up as soon as they have passed out of flower. 

 Stake each growth carefully so as to give the plant a neat 

 and shapely appearance. The following are a few varieties 

 we consider worthy of cultivation: Princess of Wales and 

 the old Blush, two of the best and most popular; Nell 



