8+ THE FLOWER GROWER'S GUIDE. 



These phloxes are propagated by means of division in spring or autumn, and by 

 cuttings of the young growths, which come at the base of the stem in summer. A 

 plentiful supply of these can also bo secured in March. They may be rooted in a 

 frame, and more quickly if a little heat is at command. Short lengths of root inserted 

 in pots of light soil in winter will also produce young plants. The cuttings may be 



kept in a cool house or frame during 

 winter, and planted into their proper posi- 

 tion in March or April. 



The phlox succeeds best in a rather 

 heavy soil with plentiful additions of well- 

 decayed manure. The beds may also be 

 top-dressed with the manure in summer. 

 The plants should never be allowed to 

 suffer through drought, good soakings of 

 water being given instead of only a little 

 at a time. Should very fine spikes be 

 desired the flower stems may be well 

 thinned out. Some growers consider three 

 stems on a large plant quite enough. Each 

 stem must be carefully tied to a stake. 

 If required for exhibition they will be the 

 better of some protection. This may be 

 supplied by forming a tripod of three 

 stakes or wires fixed firmly in the ground 

 over the spike. A wirework frame covered 



Fig. 43. Phlox amcena. 



with canvas is put over the upper part of 

 the tripod during rain or at night. The side branches may be tied in a little so as to 

 keep them off the sides of the cover. 



Phloxes are sometimes grown in pots for conservatory decoration. They are 

 propagated as previously directed, and, after shifts from 3-inch to 6-inch pots, are 

 placed in pots from 10 to 12 inches in diameter in spring. They are then kept 

 plunged in ashes until the flowers are nearly ready to open, when they can be taken 

 into the place where they are to bloom. The potting must be firmly done in good 

 soil, and full drainage given, as copious supplies of water are needed. 



