26 GARDENING FOR WOMEN 



different orders, and then real enjoyment begins. 

 The business becomes interesting to the novice 

 when she is sufficiently trusted to exert her 

 imagination, and make suggestions as to blending 

 different flowers and foliage. From the moment 

 when she comes into contact with those who 

 give the order, that best incentive, personal 

 interest, is aroused. As in the case of jobbing 

 gardening, it is possible for a girl to live at 

 home and yet have floral decoration as a daytime 

 interest. This, too, is a saving. 



The premium for acquiring experience is a heavy 

 one. It varies according to the position and 

 reputation of the florist's shop, but it is never less 

 than £15, and it often reaches £50. During the 

 first year it is not usual to obtain a salary. There 

 are exceptions to this rule, as will be seen on 

 p. 257, in the account of the Women's Gardening 

 Association. 



Only those who have tried it know what tiring 

 work flower arrangement is, and only strong, able- 

 bodied girls should contemplate such a profession. 

 Success, as in all undertakings, comes after long 

 perseverance and patience. The ideal method 

 of carrying on this business is to have a nursery 

 garden and raise suitable flowers in it to supply 

 one's own shop. It is then merely necessary to super- 

 intend, and give general ideas as to arrangement. 



