GREEN-KOUSE PLANTS. 



361 



to be potted in peat, as it encourages a more rapid 

 growth; but where short-jointed wood and a plenti- 

 ful supply of flowers is the object in view, use 

 about equal parts of peat and good turfy loam, 

 with the addition of a little sharp sand. We have 



young growths begin to start, even if all the flowers 

 should not have fallen oif . Many practise a system 

 of potting just as the plants have finished making 

 their wood, but we are convinced from experience 

 that if fresh soil is necessary for a plant, it must be 



Double Camellia (Mathotiana). 



seen these plants grown in loam pure and simple ; 

 but although under this treatment an abundant 

 crop of flowers are produced, the leaves to a great 

 extent lose their rich colouring, and become a sickly 

 yellow. 



These plants will live and thrive for several years 

 in the same pots ; a little top-dressing, however, 

 should be given in the spring of each year. But when 

 re-potting is necessary, let it be done before the 



most advantageous just at the time nature calls 

 upon it to seek for fresh food, in order to develop 

 new wood and increase its dimensions. 



In re-potting, avoid shifting into over-large pots ; 

 drain the pots well, and press the new soil down 

 very firm. Camellias will not root with loose 

 soil. 



When growth commences, a closer and moister 

 atmosphere is of great advantage to the Camellia; 



