BUD PROPAGATION 



123 



Fig. 160. — Cutting-box. 



The stem of the cutting is inserted one third or more its 

 length in clean sand or gravel, and the eartli is pressed firmly 

 about it. A newspaper may be laid over the bed to ex- 

 clude the light — if the sun strikes it — and to prevent too 

 rapid evaporation. The soil should be moist clear through, 

 not on top only. 



Loose sandy or gravelly soil is used. Sand used by 

 masons is good material in which to start most cuttings; or 

 fine gravel — sifted of most 

 of its earthy matter — may 

 be used. Soils are avoided 

 which contain much decay- 

 ing organic matter, for these 

 soils are breeding places of 

 fungi, which attack the soft 

 cutting and cause it to " damp 

 off," or to die at or near the surface of the ground. If the 

 cuttings are to be grown in a window, put three or four 

 inches of the earth in a shallow box or a pan. A soap 

 box cut in two lengthwise, so that it makes a box four or 

 five inches deep — as a gardener's flat — is excellent (Fig. 

 160). Cuttings of common plants, as geranium, coleus, 



fuchsia, carnation, are kept at a 

 living-room temperature. As long 

 as the cuttings look bright and 

 green, they are in good condition. 

 It may be a month before roots 

 form. When roots have formed, 

 the plants begin to make new 

 leaves at the tip. Then they may 

 be transplanted into other boxes 

 or into pots. The verbena in Fig. 161 is just ready for 

 transplanting. 



Fig. 161. — Verbena Cutting 

 ready for transplanting. 



