THE GROWING OF PLANTS IN POTS 23 
after they have formed roots. Finally, put in moist sand 
and pack closely until the pot is filled to within one 
fourth of an inch of the top; then water thoroughly 
with a garden sprinkler. 
Planting slips. A stick, called a dibble, about six 
inches long and having its diameter a little larger than 
that of the slips to be planted, should be used to make 
the holes. For geranium slips four inches in length 
make holes two inches deep, in rows one = 
and one-half inches apart, straight across 
the pot. Make the holes one and one-half 
inches apart in the row, but let them 
alternate with those in adjacent rows. 
The holes may be close to the sides of the 
pot, but they should be made so that the 
slips will stand vertically after planting. 
Have all the slips prepared and sorted 
before beginning to plant. Place small 
ones on the outside and large ones in 
the center of the pot so that the whole will have a 
neat appearance after the work is completed. 
Begin planting in the holes farthest away. The slips 
should reach to the bottom of the holes, and the edges 
must not be injured. With a finger on each side of the 
slip, press the soil down firmly. By planting across the 
pot and setting the slips in the rows farthest away first, 
the danger of loosening those already in place is reduced 
to a minimum. This method also makes it easier to 
Fic.17. A Dibble 
grade the sizes. 
