3 z8 



THE FLOWER GROWER'S GUIDE. 



whenever it puts in an appearance, the result, probably, of too much fire-heat and 

 insufficient water. 



Zonale Pelargoniums.— Single varieties for bedding-out are in great demand every 

 May and June, but not at other times. Double flowering varieties form an exception to 

 this rule, well-flowered plants in 4-inch pots sometimes realising 4s. per dozen, 

 wholesale. Strong, autumn-rooted plants give the best results. There is also a fairly 

 good demand for cut flowers of semi-double scarlets, notably the improved Raspail, these 

 selling at the rate of 4s. to 6s. per dozen bunches, of twelve trusses in each. The 

 semi-double white, Madame Eozaine and Cynthia, are also profitable, being wanted for 

 memorial wreaths and crosses. These, if grown under glass, will sell at any time of the 

 year, bringing from 8s. to 12s. per dozen bunches. 



For winter flowering, the tops of firm shoots should be inserted singly in small pots 

 not later than March, and rooted in brisk, dry heat. Top to make the plants branch, 

 and a week later shift them into 5-inch pots, arranging them in a light position, in 

 gentle heat. From these pots they may be transferred to the 8-inch or 9-inch sizes, and 

 moved into frames. During the hottest part of the year they should be stood on ashes, 

 in a sunny position outdoors, topping them once more, if not sufficiently stocky, also re- 

 moving flower-buds as fast as they form. Ilouse early in September, arranging the plants 

 thinly on stages or beds of soil not far from the glass. They will flower abundantly all 

 through the autumn and winter in a dry atmosphere and temperature of 45° to 55°; 

 give liquid manure occasionally and avoid over-watering. Raise a fresh stock of plants 

 every spring, these flowering better than the old ones. 



POINSETTIA. 



For Christmas decorations only does it pay to grow poinsettias. About that time sturdy 

 plants in 5-inch pots, with fine whorls of brilliant bracts (Fig. 189), fetch from 7s. to 9s. 

 per dozen in the trade, and cut heads with a good length of stem average Gs. per dozen ; 

 a few extra fine ones bring as much as 12s. There is an early form of Poinsettia pul- 

 cherrima, of sturdy habit of growth, and comparatively easy to cultivate; but this is past 

 its best by mid-winter, and scarcely pays to grow. The old, taller-growing variety 

 forms larger and somewhat irregular whorls of scarlet bracts later, and this only ought to 

 be grown to meet the Christmas demand. 



If possible, the start should be made with a few old plants. These having been duly 

 rested in heat, ought, early in May, to be re-started into growth by a good soaking of 



