71 



Dahlias were tried with nitrate of soda, each plant 

 having about half an ounce given to it, mixed with 

 water. The plants operated upon became of a fine 

 dark green, more robust and compact in their growth ; 

 flowering rather more freely, and earlier than others 

 which had no nitrate ; it had no effect on the colour 

 of the flowers. A few of these dahlias were, about 

 three weeks after, again supplied with an additional 

 ounce, mixed with water as before, but without any 

 additional effect being perceptible ; nor was any fur- 

 ther result obtained when some of the same plants 

 had a third half-ounce administered to them about a 

 month after. (Proc. Hort. Soc. 1843, No. 1/.) 



OPEN-GROUND CULTURE. 



The chief points for consideration in this section of 

 our subject are the planting — staking — pruning — 

 watering — and protection of the plants. 



Planting. — The last fortnight of May is the best 

 time for planting out dahlias in the open border, if 

 the season be genial ; otherwise, the first or even se- 

 cond week of June is as good a time. 



Sink a hole with the spade or trowel at each place 

 where intended, five or six feet apart each way, and 



