CHAPTER X 



ROSES UNDER GLASS 



This is a large subject, capable of being treated at 

 considerable length, for if there is so much to be said 

 upon the growing of Roses out of doors under natural 

 conditions, even more care, skill, and experience are 

 required for their cultivation under artificial circum- 

 stances, and at unnatural seasons. There would, 

 however, I think be no need for such a treatise in this 

 book, even if I were capable of compiling it. Pro- 

 fessional Rosarians and skilled gardeners have nothing 

 to learn from me in this matter. I write for the genuine 

 amateur Rose grower and Rose lover who takes a warm 

 personal interest in his favourite flowers. If he be wealthy 

 enough to grow and force them on a large scale he will 

 no doubt employ a man who has learned the art under 

 more able guidance than mine ; but for others I hope 

 to give some general principles and outlines of routine 

 which should help those who wish to make " a bit of 

 glass " useful in the cultivation of the Rose. 



The glass-house for Roses, whether it be merely a 

 " pit " or " lean-to," or a more ambitious structure, should 

 run lengthways north and south, so as to catch the sun 

 in the morning and afternoon, and not suffer from excess 

 of heat in the middle of the day. I do not propose to 



