]96 
EPACRIS AUTUMNALE. 
In the management of this and all the stronger and more rapid-growing 
Epacrises there is one point to which we desire to direct attention. It is the 
common practice to employ nothing but moor-soil and sand in potting, and it is to 
this, perhaps more than to any other individual error, that the lack of success is 
attributable. If a portion of loam and well-decomposed leaves be incorporated 
with the heath-soil and sand, much more luxuriant shoots will be formed, and the 
quantity of flowers increased ; for the soil being of a more open and porous nature 
will prevent the lodgment of stagnant water around the delicate roots, which so 
often, by destroying these organs, perils the very existence of the plant. 
Flowering in the winter season at a time when solar light is at its minimum, 
it becomes more especially requisite to place them in an open part, where other 
shrubs may not shade them ; if this be neglected, the flowers will be inferior in 
richness and intensity of colour. A liberal supply of water and a slight degree of 
shade will be needed whilst they are making their growth ; and a perfect circulation 
of air must be maintained at all times. 
