48 OPERATIONS FOR MARCH. 
Lastly, a considerable quantity of fuel will thus be saved, as that which by this 
system is consumed in the spring and summer months, will be very trifling com- 
pared with the usual expenditure required for maintaining an incessantly high 
temperature throughout the winter. 
In effectuating this principle, the elevation or diminution of temperature must 
be gradual, and closely in accordance with the duration or extent of solar influence. 
In proportion as these particulars are kept in view and acted upon, will be the 
success of the operation. At the present season artificial heat may be constantly, 
but moderately applied, and as the sun's rays become more vigorous and durable, 
the temperature may be increased. Ridiculous as this may appear to some, a 
little investigation will prove it to be the only rational mode of proceeding ; for, 
to subject plants to a great heat without a due supply of light, is contrary to 
nature, and highly prejudicial. Whereas, the influence of the sun not being so 
prolonged in our climate as it is in tropical regions, we should take advantage of 
the period in which it is afforded, to endeavour, by seasonable co-operation, to 
bring to maturity those objects which will not flourish without its aid. 
The maintenance of an equable degree of temperature during day and night 
indiscriminately, must be understood as being quite irrelevant to the principle 
above propounded, and perfectly incompatible with our views. While, however, 
we would by no means attempt to preserve this equability, we would not suffer 
the temperature to be too greatly deranged, and certainly not to a greater extent 
than 20 degrees Fahrenheit. Moisture, whether atmospheric, or in the form of 
water, whether applied to the roots, or sprinkled over the entire surface of the 
plant, must always be administered in quantities commensurate with the degree 
of heat, and this rule should in no instance be departed from, except in particular 
cases during the decline of the season. 
Greenhouse plants, and those in pits, frames, or such as are kept in pots in any 
other situation, will in some degree fall under the preceding remarks. Although, 
in their case, no artificial heat is required, water performs the part of a stimulant ; 
and the same principle of apportioning its supply to the extent of solar agency, 
holds good in reference to them likewise. In preparing any of these for the 
flower-garden or borders, the action upon them of any other than solar heat 
should be avoided as much as possible, since it induces a weak, sickly state, which 
is inimical to their future development and beauty. 
Seeds of annual plants of every description, if sown at this period, ought not 
to be rapidly excited by a too powerful heat. Where any stimulation of this kind 
is employed, it should be of a very gentle nature ; and, except with extremely 
tender species, the more it is dispensed with, the greater will be the luxuriance, 
beauty, and hardiness, of the plants. 
