PROPAGATING CARNATIONS. 323 



the pots is removed, replacing this with a mixture of equal parts of fresh loam and leaf 

 soil with sharp sand added. The selected growths or those hest placed for the purpose 

 (see a and b, Fig. 148) are divested of their lower leaves, and the stems then cut through 

 a joint, leaving a tongue as shown at a. This is done by placing a sharp knife under 

 the most convenient joint, cutting upwards, or by thrusting a small thin penknife 

 above the joint and drawing it downward and outward. This is the quicker way in 

 the hands of expert operators. The layer with its open slit and tongue is then pegged 

 down firmly into the soil, and if kept uniformly moist, roots soon form. In the course 



Fig. 148. Propagating Carnations and Picotees. 



a, Layer with tongue ; b, inserted ; c and d, growths for cuttings and slips (/ and g) ; e, rooted 



and detached layer. 



of five or six weeks the layers will be well rooted, and can be detached, as shown at e. 

 When detached from the parent plant, the strongest of them may either be placed singly 

 in 2| to 3|-inch pots or be planted in beds, arranging those in pots in a cold frame, kept 

 close for a few days, till the young plants start growing, then admitting air freely. 



Cuttings. — These may be taken and inserted in June and July, short side-growths 

 not conveniently disposed for layering being suitable. If only 3 to 4 inches long 

 (see d and g\ slip them off the stem, insert, and little further preparation is 

 needed. If longer, shorten just below the third joint, trim off the lower leaves 



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