OPERATIONS FOR MAY. 
95 
these observations we by no means wish to deter cultivators from keeping a few 
plants of it in the greenhouse, where it will produce a very ornamental effect, 
we are desirous of seeing it more generally cultivated as a hardy shrub, as we 
know of none {Rhododendrons excepted) that is more worthy of a place in every 
garden, whether a large or a small one. 
As we have observed that many cultivators appear to treat Deutzia scabra as 
a greenhouse, or half-hardy plant, it may be well here to remark, that we have 
witnessed plants of it which stood out in the open ground during the whole of the 
last winter with perfect impunity, as they did not sustain the slightest injury ; 
therefore there is not the least doubt that it is as hardy as any of the common 
species of Philadelphus^ to which it is so nearly allied. 
OPERATIONS FOR MAY. 
Stove and orchidaceous plants will now require to be abundantly supplied with 
water, but much discrimination is necessary in administering it, as an undue 
quantity of it is extremely injurious. As a general rule, it may be observed that 
those plants with hard woody stems, and of slow-growing habits, must be watered 
sparingly and cautiously ; while for those with more succulent stems (such as 
Begonias) and of stronger and more luxuriant growth, a much greater quantity of 
it is necessary, and they should be examined two or three times during each day, 
and water supplied to them if requisite. It is impossible, however, to prescribe 
particular rules for performing this operation, as much depends on the manner in 
which the plants are potted, and the quantity of drainage given to them ; therefore 
the cultivator must be guided in a great measure by the appearance of the soil. 
Orchidaceous plants should now be shaded during the heat of the day (except in 
cloudy weather), and these, as well as stove plants, will derive much benefit from 
a slight syringing towards the close of each day, previous to which the house 
should be closely shut up. This will tend to destroy insects, and also invigorate 
the plants, and preserve them in a healthy condition. From any of the species of 
stove plants that are now producing young shoots, cuttings may be taken if an 
increase is desired, and treated in the usual manner. 
The plants in the greenhouse departnient are so numerous and varied, that no 
specific directions can be given for their general management. Those Camellias which 
have now ceased flowering will require to be slightly stimulated, by being placed 
in a moderate temperature, and frequently syringed, in order that they may form 
good new shoots, and an abundance of flower-buds. Inarching may now be suc- 
cessfully performed, but great care is necessary to preserve the plants so treated 
from the powerful rays of the sun, which generally prove fatal to the young grafts. 
The chief point to be attended to in the cultivation of New Holland plants at this 
