POLYANTHUS-NARCISSUS. 97 



larly interdicted by florists. This rule is more 

 regarded in England than it appears to be on 

 the continent. The Dutchmen are less tender 

 of the foHage than we are ; nor do they seem to 

 attribute to the leaves that peculiar function 

 which is given them by the botanical physiolo- 

 gists of this country. Perhaps certain ideas, 

 like diseases, are endemical. But as to the 

 question whether or not the cutting off the 

 leaves while in vigorous growth be detrimental, 

 there can be no doubt of the affirmative. In 

 this case, Nature shows what is right. Every 

 distinct member of a plant is certainly necessary 

 to each and all the other parts. And although 

 Art may direct or regulate the tendencies of 

 parts of members, no distinct member contri- 

 buting to the growth can be taken away without 

 injury. 



The first of October is the proper season for 

 planting the polyanthus-narcissus. The bulbs 

 should be put four or five inches deep in the 

 ground ; and, during severe frost, should have a 

 covering of old bark, dry fern, or mats ; as the 



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