354 



THE FLOWER GROWER'S GUIDE. 



and also croton leaves, are, in some instances, substituted for the mass of flowers with 

 good effect; and lichen, which can be bought in bundles, is employed as a ground- 

 work for supporting what might be termed a double spray of choice flowers. 



Crosses may be made of any size, and in various forms. For an ordinary, inexpensive 

 cross the foundation may be 18 inches and the cross-bar 11 inches across, disposing 

 this either at right angles with the " beam,' 1 or at an angle of about 45°. Cover with 

 moss and arrange the flowers in the form of a spray ; or the whole surface may be 



covered with one kind of flower only, 

 such as Lilies of the Valley. Chaste 

 examples are represented in Figs. 

 202 and 203. Harps, anchors, and 

 other designs are occasionally ordered, 

 but when once a florist has gained 

 a good insight into the art of floral 

 manipulation, nothing ought to come 

 amiss to him. 



Packing Flowers. 

 For flowers to travel well and 

 fetch the best prices, they must be 

 packed properly. That is to say, 

 closely, firmly, and in such a manner 

 as to prevent them from shifting 

 about and becoming bruised. If the 

 bulk is to be consigned to commis- 

 sion agents, from these any number 

 of suitable boxes for packing in can be obtained ; but if they are to be sent direct to 

 florists in towns generally, then the grower has to provide his or her own boxes. 

 They are not dear, and can be bought from regular box- makers much cheaper than 

 they can be made locally. Hinged boxes soon get out of order, and drop lids are apt 

 to fall into the flowers ; so that, all things considered, those with rimmed lids, lightly 

 made and furnished with corner plates, are the best. If bought in different sizes they 

 can be "nested-' and packed into close quarters either when travelling empty or when 

 stored. The largest size may measure 26 inches long, 15 inches wide, and 7 inches 



