64 



GARDENING FOR THE SOUTH. 



and branches differ from layers, in bein^ removed without 

 root, and tliey generally require shading, which layers do 

 not, and occasionally bottom heat, to make them throw 

 out roots. The branches most suitable for cuttings are 

 those which grow nearest to the ground, especially those 

 which recline upon it, as they have a greater tendency to 

 throw out roots. The time for making cuttings of hardy 

 plants is in the autumn, and through the early winter 

 months, as the frost seldom throws them out with ua 

 Rose cuttings put out the last of October will be ready, 



CUTTIKCS. 



with a little care, to be put out in place early in spring, 

 having rooted perfectly during the winter. If put in a hot 

 bed, the plants will have increased in size materially, 

 growing all winter. A good time for roses is also directly 

 after they have made their spring flowering, and are be- 

 ginning to grow. At this time some roses will be upon 

 the parent plants, and you are sure of getting the desired 

 rarieties. With shading, they grow nearly as well as 

 those put out in winter. It is from the joints only that 

 roots can be expected to grow ; hence, in making cuttings, 

 the shoot is divided just below a joint, and it is considered 

 best to choose a joint between the young wood and that 

 of the previous season. The cut should be quite smooth, 

 for if the shoot be bruised, the returning sap will not be 

 able to reach the joint in sufficient quantity to effect the 

 desired end. Some plants, like the willow, currant, and 

 vines, are very easy to strike from cuttings, and will 

 throw out roots not only from the joints, but from every 

 part of the stem, and it is not so needful to cut these off 



