454 On the Cultivation of Pinks. 



sand and stiff loam being the principal ingredients required, 

 the one for strong soils, the other for light. 



Before I use fresh dug loam, I always take the precaution, 

 to strew over it a little quick lime, well slacked, and in a hot 

 state, to correct any acidity, or decompose any injurious sa- 

 line compounds. Lime also is an excellent application for 

 the destruction of slugs, snails, worms, and other injurious 

 insects, as well as for the dissolution of inert vegetable 

 matter. 



You will excuse the minute detail, which I have entered 

 into more fully than I intended, when I sat down ; but as I 

 took the pains to make the experiment, I give it you be- 

 cause I have every reason to be satisfied with the success 

 of it. 



Before I conclude, I beg to call to your recollection that I 

 am neither gardener nor florist professionally, but that I 

 commenced the .cultivation of flowers in the first instance 

 with a view to amuse a depressed state of mind, and re- 

 invigorate a still more sickly state of body. I therefore solicit 

 your utmost indulgence towards the remarks which I have 

 made on the cultivation of that pleasing little flower, the 

 Pink. 



I am, Sir, with great respect 



your most obedient humble servant, 



Padding-ton, 

 July 30, 1821. 



Thomas Hogg. 



