336 



THE FLOWER GROWERS GUIDE. 



sible. They will become drawn if subjected to much artificial heat, and enfeebled if 

 allowed to become root-bound. Those four in a pot ought to be divided before the 

 roots become matted together. Many of them will be ready for potting singly during, 

 the first fortnight in February, some still earlier. Those in thumb pots may be shifted 

 into the 4-inch size, using the same soil mixture recommended for cuttings, pressing it 

 down rather firmly, and arranging the plants on a bed of ashes near the glass in a pit or 



Fig. 152. Young Chetsanthemtjms. 

 a, Spindled (kept too long in cutting pot, d, Fig. 151) ; b, sturdy plant (shifted at the right time from e, Fig. 151)- 



frame where gentle heat can be maintained. Keep the plants moderately close, water 

 sparingly, and afford extra protection when a severe frost is imminent. When well 

 rooted in the fresh soil, give water more freely and remove the plants to a cold frame or 

 shallow pit, still affording ample protection from frosts. 



The next shift may be given either late in March or during April, according to the 

 condition of the plants. If long kept in a root-bound state, they become tall and- 



