108 
THE NEW SYSTEM OF POTTING. 
I 
combinations of elements will be in accordance with effects produced by the | 
disturbing power. ' 
Since man is but an instrument to direct the machinery placed at his command t 
by Infinite Wisdom, it is not likely that he can discover the minutise of first causes. 
He is an observer, who ought to mark and register the results of his observations ; 
and in proportion that he does so, he will obtain a knowledge of effects from which 
he may infer the existence of certain general laws. 
We have merely attempted, in the foregoing sketch, to suggest a few leading 
facts, as the outline of a principle of manuring, upon which a rational yet unassuming 
theory may be erected and tested by experience. 
THE NEW SYSTEM OF POTTING. 
In the remarks contained in a previous Number, to which the following are ^ 
intended as a sequel, an opinion was offered that the present test of superior cul- 
tivation is the greatest amount of constitutional vigour within a limited j| 
period and as this, when attained, can but be regarded as a primary step towards 
an ultimate object, it may with equal certainty be affirmed that the highest 
purpose of cultivation is a constitutional vigour, combined with a uniform develop- 
ment of bloom. In attempting to define the means generally adopted for the 
attainment of this, it will be of interest to glance at the principles or conditions 
upon which such results depend. 
The present methods of cultivation may be considered under two distinct 
mechanical operations, or modes of potting. The first, from the simplicity and 
uniformity of its process, has been termed a Progressive and Accumulative 
system ; and the second, from its required exposure to successive seasons of 
excitement and repose, may not unaptly be designated an Alternate or Restrictive I 
system. i 
The leading feature of the former (Accumulative) is found in its adaptation 
to attain a maturity of growth, apart from the aid of intermediate shifts, by 
removing plants, in their youngest state, to pots commensurate in size with their 
ultimate vigour and fertility. The latter, or Restrictive system, is well charac- 
terized by its dependence for the same end upon the ordinary practice of shifting 
gradually from smaller to larger pots. That there should exist many doubts and 
suggestions as to the practicability of the first-named method, is not surprising ; 
since its procedure is totally opposite to that of general practice, in not being a 
gradual process of repeated and protracted efforts, but an application of first 
principles towards producing an immediate effect. Each system is not less 
opposite in its mechanical details than in its natural tendencies ; the Accumulative 
being an immediate application of heavy quantities, proportionate to a perfect 
