PREPARING SOIL AND PROPAGATING 29 



monly held that the basis of the compost 

 should consist of good fibrous loam. The 

 physical (mechanical) condition of the soil 

 is of almost as much moment as its chemical 

 constitution. It is of prime importance 

 that the soil shall be porous, in order that 

 thorough drainage and aeration be obtained. 

 For this purpose it is well to mix with the 

 soil a certain amount of sharp sand and 

 charcoal, the presence of the latter being 

 particularly desirable. The nature of the 

 soil, too, governs the manner of potting. 

 For a sturdy growth, light soil should be 

 firmly packed, while heavier soils require 

 only loose packing. The use of heavy clay 

 loam brings with it the danger of water- 

 logged roots, while a very light, sandy soil 

 permits excessive drainage and consequent 

 root starvation. It is preferable, however, 

 to err on the side of lightness rather than 

 heaviness. With the loam, well-rotted stable 

 manure may be mixed in various propor- 

 tions, although the ratio of one part manure 

 to three parts loam will probably give the 

 best results. Horse, cow, and sheep 

 manure can all be used with good results; 

 but cow manure is generally preferred, as 



