ON ROSES. 97 



summer ; it also acts as a gentle fertiliser, and encourages the 

 roots to keep near the surface. 



Manures. — The question of manures is a somewhat vexed 

 one, but all good growers acknowledge that one must be guided 

 by the soil and the situation. On light soils of all kinds it will 

 be found that basic slag, at the rate of 20z. to the square- 

 yard, is not only fertilizing, but also renders the soil denser 

 and more holding in character. The effect is not so apparent in 

 the first as in the second year, and for that reason it is advisable 

 to apply a dressing immediately the planting is done. Another 

 very fine manure for Roses on both heavy and light soils 

 is 20Z. of superphosphate to each square yard, applied at 

 the end of March. This manure produces a sturdy, flori- 

 ferous' growth, with much substance in the flowers. If the 

 soil is very light, muriate of potash may be added, , at the 

 rate of ^oz. to each 20Z. of superphosphate. On sandy soils 

 resting on gravel, kainit is excellent if applied at the end of 

 April or early in May, at the rate of 20z. to 30Z. per square 

 yard ; this manure not only fertilises, but also retains moisture 

 in the soil all through the summer months. On heavy soils few 

 manures are equal to a liberal application of fine bone-meal, 

 say at the rate of 30Z. to each square yard, and very lightly 

 pricking this in with a fork early in April, or immediately 

 after the Roses have all been, pruned. 



Farmyard manure is well known as a complete plant-food, 

 especially if it is from different kinds of- animals, and is 

 all mixed together in a heap, where it is not exposed to the 

 action of the weather. A mulch of this applied about 3m. thick 

 just after pruning is of great value, not only for the food 

 supplied, but also for conserving moisture during the hot 

 summer months. Liquid manure in a diluted form is one of 

 the finest stimulants to Roses, especially for the production of 

 exhibition flowers, but sewage is not so beneficial, being apt to 

 induce mildew and other evils. A good pure guano (using ioz. 

 to each square yard of surface) is also of immense service in 

 developing fine blossoms for .exhibition or in giving a great 

 crop ; but, like all concentrated manures, it must be used 

 with caution, and not allowed to fall on the shoots or foliage, or 

 burning will follow. 



Arrangement. — Although Roses are such universal favourites, 

 and excite more admiration than any other hardy flower, we 

 frequently see them planted with an utter disregard to 



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