CULTIVATION FOR MARKET IN ENGLAND II9 



each double row, some giving more space. Where the 

 bamboo system is adopted it is usual to fix up all such 

 supports before planting. The method of erection is 

 illustrated on pages 62 and 63. 



Immediately after planting the growths are supported 

 either by twigs or ties, and right through the season this is 

 closely attended to. The first pinching out of the tops 

 induces side growths, and with the general run of varieties 

 the two strongest shoots are retained, the others being 

 removed. Weak growers are carried upon the single 

 stem principle, while very vigorous varieties are allowed 

 three or perhaps four stems, otherwise the flowers come 

 very coarse. When in full growth the plants need daily 

 attention, for they require tying to the bamboos at nearly 

 every joint. Furthermore, all side growths must be snapped 

 out as soon as they can be got at, but it is. unwise to remove 

 the topmost side growth, until the leading point is clearly 

 seen, otherwise the plant may run off blind. Or caterpil- 

 lars or other causes may destroy the point, and if the lateral 

 immediately below is removed, the plant's existence is 

 finished, unless by chance a dormant eye remains at the 

 base. In addition to the removal of side shoots, all ten- 

 drils are nipped off as soon as they are clear from the 

 leaves. On bamboo canes the tendrils serve no purpose, 

 and they are apt to seize the flower stems and make them 

 crooked. 



The plants grown on this system do not open flower 

 until they are at least 3 ft. high, more often 4 ft., and in 

 normal weather a two-stemmed plant will average three to 

 four fully developed spikes per week. In duJI weather the 

 average will be less, and in warmer weather the average is 

 higher, but in the latter case the flowers are not so fully 

 developed, while in hot spells the stems are much shorter. 



