20 



FEBRUARY— SECOND WEEK. 



quently syringed, to keep down red spider, as they are 

 more liable than other plants to be infested by them. 



STOVE AND ORCHID-HOUSE. 



The advice given for the shifting of the general stock 

 of greenhouse plants will also be applicable to the fresh 

 potting of the stove plants. 



Begonias. — Being of free growth they delight in fresh 

 soil, consisting of equal parts of sandy loam and leaf 

 mould. As a general rule they are repotted in February 

 and August ; but exceptions are sometimes made, and a 

 shift is given whenever the roots become cramped or 

 matted in the pot. The knife to be used cautiously, 

 unless with the tall-growing sorts. 



Gloxinias. — To be now started, if not done as advised 

 a fortnight ago. When planted press the roots gently 

 on the surface of the soil, and give them no water for 

 some time ; as the moisture in the soil will be sufficient 

 at first until they begin to grow, when a little may be 

 given, and the supply to be gradually increased as they 

 advance in growth. When potted to be removed to a 

 frame or pit where the temperature is about 60°. 



Luculia gratissima. — To be potted in a compost con- 

 sisting of half turfy loam, one-fourth turfy peat, and one- 

 fourth leaf mould, with good drainage. 



Musa Cavendishii. — To be repotted in a compost 

 of turfy loam, vegetable soil, or well-rotted manure, and 

 a small portion of sand, with plenty of drainage. To be 

 plunged in a brisk heat in a bark-bed, and to keep the 

 roots moist. 



Many of the Orchids may now be potted, and then 

 placed in the warmest part of the house. The plants that 

 are not shifted to be supplied with a little fresh material, 

 taking care that the embryo buds are not covered. Look 

 over the fastenings of all that are on blocks, or in baskets, 

 and renew the wires where necessary. The temperature 

 to be about 65° by day, allowing it to range to 70° or 

 75° by sun-heat. 



forcing-houses. 

 Cherries. — Keep up the temperature from 50° to 55 c 

 while the trees are in bloom, with as little variation as 

 possible. The trees not in flower to be frequently syringed. 



