so 



vermin, and particularly the earwigs and slugs ; se- 

 condly, as the litter keeps the earth moist upon the 

 surface, the roots come actually through the soil, and 

 may be seen at the top on removing the mulching ; 

 and then, if from neglect the surface becomes dry, the 

 plants receive such a check as to take a considerable 

 time to recover, if they ever entirely do so. Not- 

 withstanding these objections, we recommend mulch- 

 ing, for there is no fear of earwigs harbouring in the 

 manure used for mulching, if it is kept properly 

 moist ; and as for slugs, there should be none, for 

 cleanliness will always keep them down. 



Tying-up, when the plants are of full stature, re- 

 quires particular attention : in August, especially, the 

 blooming plants must frequently be looked to, in 

 order to provide any supports that may be required. 

 The greatest care must be observed that the ties are 

 attached firmly to the stem. Dahlias grow fast, and 

 the ties being hid by the foliage, are particularly apt 

 to suffer from oversight on this point. But the 

 greatest injury is to be apprehended from slugs or 

 snails, particularly the black snail (Limax ater), which 

 inhabits shady places. A sure preventative to its 

 depredation is a circle of common coal-tar poured 

 round the stem of each plant ; let a small ridge of 

 earth be made within this circle, so that water or 

 liquid manure may be applied when necessary. 

 (Gard.Journ. 1845, 488.) 



