280 JOURNAL OF THE ROYAL HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 



the time the leaves are all fully developed, until the flowers 

 commence to open, less manure should be given, as there is then 

 no appreciable extension of growth, and consequently less need of 

 food supplies ; but when the petals begin to unfold feeding will 

 be necessary at each watering. 



A top-dressing of rich soil applied early in August will 

 greatly assist the plants by encouraging new roots near the 

 surface : about half an inch pressed on firmly is ample. 



Housing of Plants. — Towards the end of September ac- 

 commodation for the plants under glass must be arranged, 

 as after this the fast swelling buds are best under cover. 

 Abundant ventilation will be necessary for the first week, after 

 which the plants will have become accustomed to their changed 

 conditions, and air may be admitted according to the outside 

 temperature. When the blossoms begin to expand the pipes 

 must be kept warmed slightly, and if damp, foggy weather 

 prevails, give a little extra heat to dispel the moisture in the 

 air, and keep a buoyant atmosphere. An average temperature of 

 53° is best for the opening blossoms, and a little top ventila- 

 tion should be given constantly unless the nights are very cold. 



Less water at the roots will suffice when the plants are 

 once inside, and if possible a circulation of air amongst tbe pots 

 should be encouraged. The opening blooms should be shaded 

 from bright sunshine, and the shade may be made permanent 

 after they are half developed. 



Before the flowers get too far advanced fumigate thoroughly 

 on several successive evenings, to destroy all insect pests, as 

 aphides and thrip do much harm if once allowed to establish 

 themselves in the flowers. 



Insects. — These are more or less troublesome all the season, 

 but the worst enemy of all is the thrip. These insects are very 

 minute, and feed on the tender points of the shoots, hence 

 they often escape notice till much harm has been done. 

 Crippled leaves, blind points, and most deformities of growth 

 are due to this, and as they are so inconspicuous, frequently 

 the injury they have done the plants is the first intimation of 

 their presence. The best remedy is to dust tobacco powder in 

 the points regularly, and this at the same time will keep aphides 

 at bay. Another good method is to use one of the small pneu- 

 matic spray-diffusers charged with a dilution of some insecticide. 



