SEED SAVING AND STARTING 69 



food supply of the seed. It is a matter of 

 common observation that well-nourished seed 

 yields the most satisfactory results. 



The bagged capsule and seed, after being 

 collected, may remain unopened and, properly 

 labelled, can be put in an open dish in a 

 draughty place away from the direct sun. 

 When all is perfectly dry, place each capsule 

 in a fresh clean bag, keeping it in a con- 

 venient place, neither too moist nor too warm, 

 until the seed is wanted for sowing. This 

 rule is to be followed for all nymphaeas 

 except those of the CastaHa (odorata) group, 

 which must be kept in water in a cool place. 



The middle of January — and not before 

 — is the time for sowing seed of all the water- 

 lilies. A house temperature of 65° F. is 

 necessary. Use glazed pans of convenient 

 size, containing about three inches of heavy 

 loam, nothing else. Sprinkle a little sand 

 on the surface to give the young plant a hold. 

 Then fill the pan with water and sprinkle the 

 seed on top. It will float for two or three 

 days and then sink. 



